What is a traditional news item concerning someone's death called?

A traditional news item concerning someone's death is referred to as an obituary. An obituary serves the purpose of announcing a person's death, providing details about their life, and often includes information regarding the funeral service. It captures the essence of the individual's life, highlighting key accomplishments, relationships, and sometimes personal anecdotes. The obituary functions not just as a notification but as a tribute, allowing the community to reflect on the individual's contributions and legacy.

The other options represent different concepts. A caricature is a visual representation or drawing that exaggerates certain features for comic or satirical effect, and it does not pertain to the reporting of a person's death. A memoir is a historical account or biography written from personal knowledge, typically about the author’s own experiences, rather than focusing on someone's death. A report is a general term for a document that presents information in a structured format but does not specifically pertain to death announcements. Thus, the proper term for a news item regarding someone's death is indeed an obituary.