What term is used for a news item concerning the death of a person that usually contains a biographical sketch?

The term used for a news item that reports the death of a person and typically includes a biographical sketch is "Obituary." An obituary provides a comprehensive account of the individual's life, achievements, and contributions, often highlighting significant moments and relationships. Its main purpose is to inform the community about the individual's passing and to celebrate their life and legacy.

In contrast, a death notice is usually a shorter announcement that simply states the fact of a person's death and may not include detailed biographical information. Memorial announcements and tributes, while they may honor the deceased, do not specifically serve the function of providing a formal account of one’s life in the same way an obituary does. Therefore, the detailed nature of an obituary makes it the correct term for this specific type of news item.