How to Write a Eulogy for Your Gigi - Eulogy Examples & Tips

Writing a eulogy for your Gigi can feel impossible and necessary at the same time. You want to honor her, say something true, and not lose your place when the tears come. This guide walks you through picking the tone, building a short structure that works, and giving real examples you can adapt. We explain any funeral words you might not know and include templates you can fill in so you can start writing right away.

Who this guide is for

This is for anyone asked to speak about their grandmother who everyone called Gigi. Maybe you are the grandchild closest by, maybe you were the one Gigi called when she could not find her glasses, or maybe you are the quiet one in the family who can put feelings into a few clear sentences. This article has options for short tributes, funny memories, complicated relationships, and ways to include family stories without making things awkward.

What we mean by Gigi

Gigi is a casual name many families use for grandmother. She may also be Nana, Mimi, Grandma, Oma, or Nonna. The tips here work for any kind of grandmother figure who filled that role in your life whether she lived next door or across the country.

Quick definitions you might see

• Eulogy A short speech that honors the person who died. It appears at a funeral, memorial, graveside service, or celebration of life.
• Obituary A written notice that announces a death and gives basic facts and service details. It is not the same as a eulogy.
• Order of service The plan for the event listing the sequence of readings, music, and speakers. Think of it as the program.
• Pallbearer Someone who helps carry the casket. This is usually family or very close friends.
• Celebration of life A less formal gathering that focuses on stories, photos, and memory sharing rather than ceremony.
• Hospice Care that focuses on comfort and quality of life for someone nearing the end of life. It can be provided at home or in a facility.
• RSVP Short for the French phrase respond s il vous plait which means please respond. It is used on invitations when hosts need a head count.

How long should a eulogy for a Gigi be

Keep it short and focused. Aim for three to five minutes which is about four hundred to six hundred spoken words. That is long enough to share a life sketch and one or two stories and still hold the room. If multiple people are speaking check with the family or officiant so total speaking time fits the program.

Before you start writing

A little prep reduces the pressure. Try this quick plan.

• Ask about time Confirm how long you should speak and where you will fit in the order of service.
• Pick a tone Decide if you want to be tender, funny, matter of fact, or a mix. Check with close relatives so the tone matches what the family expects.
• Collect memories Ask a sibling or cousin for one memory each. Focus on details like a favorite recipe, a saying Gigi repeated, or a small ritual she had.
• Choose two or three focus points Pick three things you want people to remember about her. Small is better than trying to cover everything.

Structure that actually works

Use a simple shape to give listeners something to hold on to. The structure below is short but complete.

• Opening Say who you are and your relationship to Gigi. Offer one clear line that sets the tone.
• Life sketch Give a brief overview of her life in a few practical strokes. Focus on roles like daughter, wife, worker, volunteer, or creative person she was.
• One or two stories Pick a story that shows character and a small anecdote that gives a laugh or a single detail people will remember.
• Lessons and traits Summarize the habits or values she passed on like hospitality, stubbornness, or the best way to fold a tea towel.
• Closing Offer a short goodbye line, a favorite quote, or an invitation for people to light a candle or share a memory after the service.

How to write an opening

Keep the opening simple. Your name and your relationship give everyone context and buy you one breath to settle. Then say one honest sentence about why you are here.

Opening examples

• Hello I am Maya and I am Gigi s granddaughter. We are here to remember the woman who always had an extra cookie and a longer hug.
• Hi everyone. I am Jonah the oldest grandson. Gigi taught me how to tie a fishing knot and how to say I am sorry like you mean it.
• Good afternoon. I am Priya, her youngest grandchild. Today we celebrate how Gigi made every holiday feel like a homecoming.

Writing the life sketch

The life sketch is not a detailed biography. Pick the facts that help tell the story you chose to tell. Use plain language and keep it short.

Life sketch templates for Gigi

• [Name] was born in [place] and grew up in [town]. She married [partner] and together they raised [number] children. She worked as [job] and later spent time volunteering at [place].
• [Name] moved to [city] when [life event]. She loved to [hobby], baked the best [recipe], and was known for [quirky habit].

Anecdotes that land

Stories are what people remember. Keep them sensory and end with a line that explains why the story matters.

Short anecdote examples

• When I was nine she taught me to make her famous apple pie by letting me press the crust while she told me a story about her childhood cat. That crust was not pretty but she ate it anyway and said it tasted like love.
• She had a rule that if you were late to dinner you had to sing a song at the table. We were late a lot and the family is now fluent in off key karaoke because of her.
• Gigi kept every postcard she ever received. When I asked why she said each one was a small proof that someone thought of her. That taught me to keep small kindnesses close.

Funny but respectful

Humor gives people permission to breathe. Use small earned jokes that are rooted in real memories and avoid anything that would embarrass someone present.

Safe funny examples

• She had a sponge cake that could survive a hurricane. We suspect it was partly style and partly denial.
• Gigi thought every plant needed a name. Our ficus was called Reginald and he was treated better than half our pets.

Speaking about a complicated relationship

If your relationship with Gigi was complicated you can still speak honestly with care. Acknowledge complexity and focus on the truth you can own. You do not need to list grievances or air private family matters.

Examples for complicated relationships

• My relationship with Gigi was not simple. She held strong opinions and so did I. Over the years we learned to call each other more than we argued. I am grateful for those quieter calls at the end.
• We did not always understand each other. Still she taught me resilience and the importance of keeping family close. I am learning to carry those lessons forward.

Full eulogy examples you can adapt

Below are complete examples tailored for Gigi. Replace bracketed items with your details and trim to fit your time limit.

Example 1: Warm and practical three to four minute version

Hello. I am Emma, Gigi s granddaughter. My grandmother was born in [place] and moved here when she was twenty three. She worked as a school secretary for twenty five years and volunteered at the community pantry. She loved crossword puzzles and always kept an extra pen in her apron pocket.

One memory that says a lot about her was how she hosted Sunday dinners. The table was never fancy. It was full of mismatched plates, laughter, and the smell of garlic. If you arrived thirsty she would have a glass of lemonade and a story ready. If you left with an extra sandwich she would send you home with her blessing and a note about manners.

She taught me to show up for people, to write a thank you note even when technology made it easier to send a text, and to keep a sense of humor about things that do not matter. We will miss her voice in our kitchen and the way she made every house feel like home. Please take a moment after the service to share one small memory you have of Gigi with someone nearby. Thank you.

Example 2: Short modern under two minutes

Hi. I am Noah and I am Gigi s grandson. She loved strong coffee, loud music, and telling stories twice to make sure they stuck. She taught me to be curious about people and to never leave the dishes until tomorrow. Thank you for being here and for holding her memory with us.

Example 3: Funny and celebratory

Hello. I am Lila, her elder granddaughter. If you ever met Gigi you know she had two rules. Rule one was save room for dessert. Rule two was if you took her seat you should expect a stern look. She had the loudest laugh in any room and the biggest cookie jar in any kitchen. Today we celebrate her cookie empire and her willingness to share both cookies and advice. We will miss her recipes and her stories and we will try to keep the jar half full in her memory.

Example 4: Complicated but honest

My name is Marco and Gigi and I did not always see eye to eye. She could be stubborn and I could be impatient. Despite our arguments she was there when I needed her and she taught me to be stubborn about standing up for the people I love. In the last years we found a rhythm and I am grateful for the late night phone calls and the small apologies that were big proof of care. Thank you, Gigi.

Example 5: Short and sweet for a graveside service

Hello everyone. I am Zoe, her granddaughter. Gigi loved sunflowers and taking long afternoon walks. She would always say keep moving and keep noticing. I will miss her practical advice and her knack for finding the bright side. Please join me in one moment of silence for her and for what she gave each of us.

Fill in the blank templates

Copy a template and fill in the blanks. Read it out loud and trim anything that sounds forced. Use large font if you will read from paper.

Template A classic short

My name is [Your Name]. I am [Gigi s Name] [grandchild child]. [Gigi s Name] was born in [place] and loved [hobby or food]. She worked as [job] and was the person we called when [small example]. One memory that shows the kind of person she was is [brief story]. She taught me [value or lesson]. We will miss [what people will miss]. Thank you for being here and for holding her memory.

Template B for a complicated relationship

My name is [Your Name]. My relationship with [Gigi s Name] was complex. We argued and we forgave. Over time I came to appreciate [something positive]. In the last [months years] we [reconnected found peace shared stories]. If I could say one thing to her now it would be [short line you want to say].

Template C light and funny with sincerity

Hi I am [Your Name]. To know [Gigi s Name] was to know that [quirky habit]. She also taught us practical things like [household tip] and the art of [small skill]. My favorite memory is [funny small story]. I will miss her jokes and her stubbornness about [small obsession]. Thank you.

Delivery tips that actually help

Speaking while grieving is hard. These practical tactics keep you steady.

• Print your speech Use large type. Paper is easier than a small phone screen when tears appear.
• Use cue cards Index cards with one or two lines each help you keep place and allow for pauses.
• Mark pauses Put a bracket where you want to breathe or where people might laugh. Pauses give you time to collect yourself.
• Practice out loud Read the eulogy to a friend, to a mirror, or to your pet. Practice tells your throat what to expect.
• Bring tissues and water Keep them nearby. Take a sip and a breath if your voice cracks.
• Ask for help If you feel you might not finish arrange for a friend to introduce you and to step in if needed.
• Mic technique Keep the microphone a few inches from your mouth and speak slowly. If there is no mic project to the back row without shouting.

What to avoid

• Avoid turning the eulogy into a private argument or therapy session.
• Avoid long lists of achievements without stories to make them human.
• Avoid gossip or family secrets that could hurt listeners.
• Avoid jokes that single out or embarrass people present.

Including readings, poems, and music

Short readings are best. If you want to include a poem pick a two to four line excerpt rather than a whole long piece. Confirm with the officiant and share the text in the program when possible.

Music tips

• Choose songs Gigi loved or music that matches the tone of the event.
• If live music is not possible check if the venue can play a recorded song between speakers.
• Place music where it supports the speech such as a brief interlude or at the end of a reading.

Logistics and communicating with the funeral team

• Tell the funeral director if you will need a microphone or if you plan to hand out printed copies.
• Confirm with the officiant where you will stand and how long you may speak.
• Give a copy of your speech to the person running the order of service so they can include it in the program or memory book.

After the eulogy

People will likely want a copy. Offer to email it to family and friends or place it in a memory book. Some families ask that the eulogy be printed in the program. You can also record audio privately and share it with relatives who could not attend. Always check with family before posting recordings publicly.

Glossary of useful terms and acronyms

• Eulogy A speech given at a funeral or memorial to honor the person who has died.
• Obituary A written notice that announces a death and usually includes service details.
• Order of service The plan for the event listing the sequence of readings and music.
• Pallbearer A person chosen to carry the casket. They are usually family or close friends.
• Celebration of life A less formal gathering that focuses on stories and photos.
• Hospice Care focused on comfort and quality of life near the end of life.
• RSVP Please respond. Used on invitations to confirm attendance.

Frequently asked questions

How do I start a eulogy if I am nervous

Begin with your name and your relationship to Gigi. A short opening like Hello my name is [Your Name] and I am Gigi s granddaughter gives the audience context and buys you a breath to settle. Practice that opening until it feels familiar. It will steady you at the microphone.

What if I forget my place or start crying

Pause, breathe, and look at your notes. If you need a moment take it. People will wait. If you cannot continue have a designated person ready to step in. A short note someone else can pick up from helps in this scenario.

Can I use humor in a eulogy for my Gigi

Yes, small earned humor is often welcome. Use jokes based on real memories and test them with a trusted friend. Avoid anything that might embarrass the deceased or upset family members.

Should I include a poem or religious content

Only include religious language if it was meaningful to Gigi or the family. You can choose a secular poem or short reading if religion was not central. Keep passages brief and confirm with the officiant.

How do I make a short eulogy that still feels complete

Focus on one to three points you want people to remember. Tell a single story that illustrates those points and close with a short line that sums up the lesson or the mood. Short and specific usually lands better than long and vague.

Is it okay to read from my phone

Yes you can but make sure the screen is bright enough and the device will not ring. Many people prefer printed pages or index cards because they are easier to handle when emotions run high.