What Should You Put In A Eulogy

The eulogy is a crucial and emotional component of a funeral service, providing a heartfelt tribute that honours and remembers your loved one. But knowing what to put in a eulogy and how to deliver a meaningful message can be a daunting task. In this guide, we will take you through the steps to create a touching and memorable eulogy that your loved one deserves, with tips on content, format, and sharing personal stories and memories.

1. Begin with a personal introduction

Start your eulogy by introducing yourself and your relationship with the deceased. Briefly explain how you know the person, and how they impacted your life. This helps set the tone and creates a personal connection with your audience.

2. Share your loved one's story

Next, provide an overview of your loved one's life journey, covering significant milestones and achievements. You might include their place of birth, family members, education, career, hobbies, and interests. Try to present a well-rounded picture of the person, offering a snapshot of their unique qualities and characteristics.

3. Include personal memories and anecdotes

One of the most meaningful aspects of a eulogy is sharing personal stories and memories. These anecdotes offer a glimpse into the person's life, showcasing their personality, values, and the impact they had on the people around them. Consider sharing moments you shared together, funny stories, or episodes that demonstrate their kindness, generosity, or determination.

4. Acknowledge the grief and loss

It's important to recognize and validate the grief and loss felt by the attendees. Express your own sorrow, as well as acknowledging the pain felt by friends, family members, and the entire community. Sharing this common emotion can help create a sense of empathy and shared experience.

5. Offer words of comfort and hope

While a eulogy often focuses on the life that has passed, it's also important to incorporate messages of comfort, hope, and inspiration. You may want to share a favourite quote, religious scripture, or philosophical thought that signifies the deceased's beliefs and offers solace.

6. End with a powerful conclusion

Conclude your eulogy with a lasting thought, reflecting on your loved one's enduring influence and legacy. This could be a final memory, a closing message of gratitude, or a beautiful metaphor that captures their spirit. Be sure to end on a note that conveys love, appreciation, and a sense of closure.

7. Take your time and practice

Once you've written your eulogy, spend some time practicing your speech. Rehearsing will help you ensure your tone and delivery are appropriate, and will give you the confidence to express your emotions during this difficult time.

What Should You Put In A Eulogy Example:

An example of a eulogy

Good morning, my name is Sarah, and I am honoured to be here today as Melissa's sister and best friend. I want to share with you some memories and stories that exemplify the vibrant, loving, and adventurous soul that she was.

Melissa was born in Springfield, and her love for nature and the outdoors blossomed early in childhood. That love stayed with her throughout her life, as she became an avid hiker, camper, and gardener. Her passion for the environment led her to earn a degree in environmental science and devote her career to protecting our planet.

I can still remember our family camping trips when Melissa would rally us all to explore the nearby trails and marvel at the beauty of the earth – even when it was pouring rain. Her infectious laughter and boundless energy inspired everyone who met her.

Today, as we gather to celebrate Melissa's life, we acknowledge the deep pain and loss we all feel. She left her mark on every person she encountered and her absence will leave a void in our hearts. As we honour Melissa's memory, let us also remember her enduring spirit, the laughter she brought to every situation, and her unwavering love for her family and friends.

In closing, I'd like to share a quote from John Muir, a naturalist who Melissa admired: "In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks." Let us all carry Melissa's love for nature, her warmth, and her resilience as we navigate our own paths through life. Thank you."

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a eulogy?

A eulogy is a speech given during a funeral or memorial service that pays tribute to the deceased. It celebrates the life they lived, their characteristics, and the impact they had on others.

Who usually gives a eulogy?

Typically, eulogies are given by close family members, friends, or colleagues of the deceased. However, anybody who was close to the person and feels compelled to speak may do so.

How long should a eulogy be?

A eulogy generally lasts between 5 to 10 minutes. It's important to convey your message concisely to maintain the attention of those in attendance while honoring your loved one's memory.

What should you not include in a eulogy?

Avoid including any information that could be deemed offensive or inappropriate. Also, steer clear of bringing up controversial subjects or negative aspects of the deceased's life that could upset those mourning.

Should I write the eulogy or speak from the heart?

This is a personal choice. Writing the eulogy can help organize thoughts and reduce anxiety about speaking. Conversely, speaking from the heart can be more spontaneous and personal, but it may be harder to stay coherent and concise.

Is it okay to include humor in a eulogy?

Yes, it is okay to include humor if it's respectful and reflects the personality of the deceased. A light-hearted story or anecdote can be comforting and heartwarming for the mourners.

Can I share a poem or quote in a eulogy?

Absolutely. Sharing a poem, quote, or religious text that was meaningful to the deceased or that captures your feelings can be a beautiful addition to a eulogy.

How should I start the eulogy?

Begin the eulogy by expressing gratitude to those attending. Then, introduce yourself and explain your relationship to the deceased to provide context for your words.

How do I write a eulogy for someone I didn't know well?

In such cases, it's appropriate to gather anecdotes and memories from those who knew the person better. Focus on their legacy, the grief of the community, and their positive attributes.

Is it acceptable to cry during the eulogy?

It's entirely acceptable and expected that emotions may run high during a eulogy. Allow yourself to express your feelings; the audience understands that this is a challenging moment.

How can I practice delivering a eulogy?

Rehearse reading the eulogy out loud, ideally in front of a friend or family member for feedback. Practicing will help make you more comfortable with the speech and the emotions it may elicit.

What if I am too emotional to give the eulogy?

If you feel too overwhelmed, it's okay to ask someone else to read the eulogy on your behalf. Ultimately, the most important thing is that your loved one's story is told, regardless of who speaks.

Can a eulogy be given for someone who was not well-liked?

Yes, everyone's life has value and impact. If tasked with giving a eulogy for such a person, focus on the positive aspects of their life, their accomplishments, and any challenges they overcame.

Should children be mentioned in a eulogy?

If the deceased had children, it's usually appropriate to mention them in the eulogy. This acknowledges their importance in the loved one’s life and offers them a sense of inclusion in the ceremony.

How do I end a eulogy?

Conclude with a final tribute, such as a meaningful farewell message, a reflective thought, or an expression of hope or comfort for the future. The ending should bring closure and respect to your words.

How personal should a eulogy be?

While the eulogy should be personal, it's important to maintain respect for the deceased and those in attendance. Personal stories are valuable, but they should be shared with consideration for the audience's feelings.

Can I use a eulogy written by someone else?

While you may find inspiration from others' eulogies, it's best to personalize the speech to reflect the unique character and life of the person you are honoring.

What tone should I aim for in a eulogy?

The tone of a eulogy should be respectful and reflective. It can vary from somber to celebratory, depending on the life of the individual and the preferences of their loved ones.

How can I involve other people in the eulogy?

Consider inviting others to share a brief story or memory during the eulogy, or compile quotes and sentiments from friends and family to include in your speech.

How can I manage my nervousness about public speaking?

Remember that you're surrounded by friends and family who support you. Keep the focus on honoring the deceased, take deep breaths, and speak slowly. Practice can also significantly reduce nervousness.

What is the best way to deliver a eulogy?

Speak clearly, at a steady pace, and make eye contact with the audience when possible. Holding a printed copy of the eulogy can provide a helpful guide and offer emotional support.

Can a eulogy be too honest?

While honesty is important, a eulogy is not the time to air grievances or expose the deceased's faults. Aim for a truthful representation of their character that is also considerate of the bereaved.

Writing a eulogy is an emotional and challenging task, but it's also an opportunity to pay tribute to a life well-lived. By sharing personal memories, celebrating their journey, and offering words of comfort and hope, you can create a eulogy that truly honours your loved one. We hope this guide has been helpful, and if you have found value in it, please do share it with others in need. Remember, Eulogy Assistant is always here to help with writing and support throughout this difficult time.