Losing someone you love is never easy, and finding the right words to say in a eulogy can feel overwhelming. However, writing a meaningful and personalized eulogy is an opportunity to honor your loved one's life and memories. With the right guidance and support, it's easier than you think to create a heartfelt eulogy that will leave your audience moved and touched. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to go about writing your eulogy, including examples to help you on your journey.
Are you struggling to write a meaningful eulogy during this difficult time? Our professional eulogy writing service can help you honour your loved one in less than 48 hours, with no additional stress. We help you preserve the legacy of a cherished life, in your time of grief. Find out more →
Table of Contents
1. Begin with a moment of reflection
Take some time to reflect on the life of the person you are writing about. Jot down memories, moments you shared, and their unique qualities that set them apart. This reflection period will help you gather your thoughts and decide what aspects of their life you want to focus on in your eulogy.
Create a list of highlights and characteristics
- Events and accomplishments that were important to them
- Shared experiences and personal anecdotes
- Their values and beliefs
- Their passions, hobbies, and interests
- Their impact on the lives of others
- Unique personality traits that defined them
2. Organize your thoughts and choose a structure
After reflecting on the life of your loved one, it's time to start organizing your thoughts. There are a few ways you can structure your eulogy, so choose the one that feels right for you.
Some structure ideas include:
- Chronological order: Tell their life story from beginning to end
- Focus on their character traits: Describe who they were through their qualities, values, and beliefs
- Select key moments: Share memorable stories or experiences that capture their essence
- Thematic structure: Divide the eulogy into sections that represent important aspects of their life, such as family, career, and hobbies
3. Write your eulogy
Now that you've chosen a structure and gathered your thoughts, it's time to start writing. Follow these tips to make your eulogy engaging and heartfelt.
Keep these tips in mind when writing your eulogy:
- Use an engaging and authentic voice: Speak from the heart and share your genuine feelings and emotions
- Keep it succinct: Aim for a length of around 5-10 minutes, focusing on the most important aspects of their life
- Make it personal: Share unique stories and experiences that capture their personality and spirit
- Add touches of humor: Include light-hearted moments and anecdotes to balance the somber tone of the eulogy
- Offer words of comfort: Reassure the audience by noting that the person's memory and legacy will live on
Need a Eulogy?
Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One
How Do I Go About Writing My Eulogy Example:
Example of a eulogy focusing on key moments:
When I think of my dear friend Sarah, I can't help but remember her infectious laugh, her love for plants and the way she always made everyone around her feel at ease. One story that perfectly encapsulates her caring nature happened last summer, when we went on a hiking trip...
At her day job, Sarah was a dedicated and passionate teacher who went above and beyond to help her students succeed. I'm reminded of a time she spent countless hours after school helping a struggling student with their science project, even though it meant missing out on social events...
One of Sarah's hidden talents was her singing voice. In her spare time, she would perform at local open mic nights, mesmerizing everyone in the room. I can still hear her singing her favorite song, "Over the Rainbow," and the way it brought tears to the eyes of everyone who was lucky enough to hear her perform. In her memory, let's do our best to bring her kind spirit and passion to the world, just as she did.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a eulogy?
A eulogy is a speech or piece of writing that praises and honors someone who has recently died. It is typically delivered at a funeral or memorial service and serves to reflect on the life and legacy of the deceased, sharing memories and impactful stories with those in attendance.
Why should I write my own eulogy?
Writing your own eulogy can be a deeply personal and reflective exercise. It allows you to have a say in how you are remembered, highlight the values and achievements that were significant to you, and provide comfort and closure to loved ones by imparting your final thoughts and messages.
How do I start writing my eulogy?
Begin by reflecting on your life and the moments that have shaped you. Consider the values, lessons, relationships, and achievements that are important to you. You can start by writing down these key elements before expanding on them in the form of stories or messages you'd like to share.
What should be included in a eulogy?
A eulogy typically includes an introduction, a brief biography, personal stories, achievements, the impact the individual had on others, expressions of love and gratitude, and often a message or farewell from the deceased.
How long should my eulogy be?
A eulogy should be concise and meaningful. A typical length is anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes when spoken. Be mindful of the fact that listeners may be in a state of grief, so keeping it heartfelt yet brief is usually appreciated.
Should I be honest or idealize my life in the eulogy?
While a eulogy is meant to highlight the positive aspects of a person's life, it should also be an honest reflection. Authenticity will resonate with your audience and help them connect with your true self. However, it’s also okay to focus on your best qualities and how you wish to be remembered.
Can I include humor in my eulogy?
Absolutely. If humor was a significant part of your personality, including it in your eulogy can help lighten the mood and provide a sense of comfort to mourners. Remember to keep it tasteful and considerate of the audience.
What tone should my eulogy have?
The tone of your eulogy should reflect both your personality and the setting. While it's a solemn occasion, the eulogy should also celebrate your life. A balance between reverence and uplifting content is often appropriate.
How can I make my eulogy unique?
Incorporate elements that are uniquely you – such as your favorite sayings, poems, songs, or stories that are synonymous with your character. The more personalized it is, the more memorable and special it will be for those listening.
What if there are parts of my life I prefer not to mention?
It's perfectly acceptable to omit certain aspects of your life from your eulogy. Focus on what you are comfortable sharing and what you would like others to remember.
Can I write my eulogy even if I am healthy?
Yes, writing your eulogy can be a fulfilling activity at any stage of life. It can help clarify your life goals and values, and provide peace of mind knowing that your legacy will be captured as you see it.
How do I address my own death in the eulogy?
Addressing your death can be done gently and with acceptance. You might choose to share your perspective on life and death, offer comfort to your loved ones, or express gratitude for the life you lived.
Is it okay to seek help when writing my eulogy?
Seeking help is entirely appropriate. You can discuss your life with close friends or family members to recall important stories or gain insight. Professional writers or therapists may also provide valuable guidance.
How can I ensure that my eulogy is delivered as I intended?
Provide clear instructions on how you'd like your eulogy to be delivered and by whom. Choose a trustworthy person who will honor your wishes and perhaps even have a discussion with them about your intentions for the eulogy.
What happens if I change my mind about the content of my eulogy?
It's normal for perspectives to change over time. You can always update your eulogy to reflect your current values and feelings. Just make sure to keep it in a safe place and let someone close to you know where the most current version is kept.
How do I handle emotional aspects of writing my eulogy?
Writing about one's own death can bring up a range of emotions. Allow yourself to experience these feelings, and take breaks if needed. Reflecting on positive impacts and cherished memories can help balance the emotional aspects of the process.
Should I share my eulogy with others before I die?
This is a personal choice. Sharing your eulogy can be a way for your loved ones to understand your wishes and prepare them for what's to come. It can also provide an opportunity for them to offer feedback and support.
How detailed should my life story be in my eulogy?
While it’s important to give an overview of your life, the most compelling eulogies are often those that focus on specific experiences and qualities that exemplify who you are. A few well-chosen anecdotes and reflections can be more impactful than a comprehensive autobiography.
How do I want people to feel after hearing my eulogy?
Consider what emotions you'd like to evoke in your audience. While sadness is inevitable, you might also want to leave them with a sense of peace, inspiration, or joy as you celebrate your life's journey.
Is it appropriate to mention people I've had conflicts with?
Mentioning conflicts can be appropriate if done constructively and with a spirit of forgiveness or reconciliation. However, a eulogy is generally not the place to air grievances or unsettle listeners with unresolved issues.
How do I end my eulogy?
End your eulogy on a thoughtful note. You might close with words of thanks, a farewell message, a meaningful quote, or a final reflection on life. Choose a conclusion that gives a sense of closure and comfort to those you leave behind.
Writing a eulogy is a challenging task, especially when you're grieving the loss of someone special. By reflecting on your loved one's life, organizing your thoughts, and speaking from the heart, you can create a beautiful and meaningful tribute that will honor their memory and legacy. Once you've completed your eulogy, be sure to share your experience with others who may be struggling with the same task. Explore other guides on Eulogy Assistant to learn more about writing a heartfelt and engaging eulogy that will leave a lasting impression on your audience.