Have a knack for words, a love for nostalgia, or even just a simple understanding of formatting text on a page? Then you may be sitting on an overlooked income opportunity that’s quietly growing online… and no, it has nothing to do with selling your stuff or running a complicated website.
I’m talking about formatting and writing obituaries and memorials as a freelance side income… and yes, it’s more heartwarming (and profitable) than it sounds.
This might be one of the simplest, most soul-enriching gigs you can do from your kitchen table, right now. Here’s how…
Let’s face it, most jobs out there don’t really fulfill us. They pay the bills, sure. But how many actually let you feel like you’re making a difference?
Helping someone capture their loved one’s life in a meaningful way is more than just writing. It’s a form of legacy work.
And it’s surprisingly accessible, especially for folks over 55 who’ve spent a lifetime accumulating rich communication skills without even realizing it.
Think back: Ever written a heartfelt letter, helped a family member craft a eulogy, or proofread a friend’s important speech? You’ve already done half the job.
Here’s how this becomes a business (and not just something nice)…
There are two main ways to start offering obituary and memorial writing as a paid service:
- Freelance marketplaces where people are already looking for help: Sites like Fiverr or Upwork let you list services easily (for free), including obituary and memorial writing. You can create a profile in under an hour and start responding to job posts or letting buyers come to you.
- Community-based promotion (and word-of-mouth): Let local funeral homes, churches, hospitals, or grief support groups know what you do. Many are thrilled to have someone they can refer clients to who knows how to approach families with care and professionalism.
You’re not just offering writing. You’re offering peace of mind during an emotional time, and that’s a valuable service people are willing and relieved to pay for.
Here’s what you technically need to get started:
- A basic computer or tablet with internet
- A simple word processor like Google Docs or Microsoft Word
- Email address and, ideally, a Fiverr or Upwork profile
No fancy website. No advertising spend. No college degree in creative writing.
You’re simply helping people tell stories, and you already know how to do that. You just need to place yourself where people can find you.
How much can you actually earn?
Most people have no clue what to charge and usually end up charging too little. For a simple but meaningful obituary write-up (roughly 300-500 words), you can charge anywhere from $50 to $150 depending on your experience and how fast you can turn it around.
Offer small add-ons like:
- Customized versions for the funeral handout or website
- Help uploading to Legacy.com or other obituary platforms
- Highlighting family milestones, veterans’ honors, or faith backgrounds
These can boost your order size with a quick task or two. Many creators on Fiverr doing memorial and life-story writing hit $500–$1,000+ per month just by doing one or two orders per week.
And yes… you can do this part-time without ever leaving your recliner.
The best part? You already have what it takes!
You don’t need followers. You don’t need to be a marketing whiz. And you’re not selling to skeptical buyers… you’re helping grateful families.
Your empathy, life experience, and gentle voice are assets now. And you’re not just making extra money; you’re helping people create something they’ll treasure forever.
So if you’re over 55, looking for meaningful work with low stress and high purpose, obituary and memorial writing might just be the creative, profitable side gig for you.
It costs nothing to start, and the rewards, both emotional and financial, might surprise you. Set up your profile, offer one heartfelt service, and you’ll see how quickly people respond when you’re the right kind of help at the right time.
It’s not just writing. It’s making a difference.
