How To Write A Eulogy Wikihow

Losing a loved one is an incredibly challenging time, and one of the most daunting tasks one might face is writing a eulogy. In moments of grief, it's difficult to find the right words to honour their memory. Fortunately, we've got you covered with this comprehensive guide on how to write a heartfelt eulogy, so you can pay a beautiful tribute to your loved one, and help celebrate their life.

1. Gathering Information and Memories

A. Speak with Family and Close Friends

Your initial step in crafting a eulogy is to gather information about your loved one. Reach out to family members and close friends to discuss their fondest memories and favourite stories. This will not only help you learn more about the person, but also provide you with various perspectives to include in the eulogy.

B. Look Through Photos and Personal Belongings

Photos, personal belongings, and treasured items can spark memories and trigger emotions that might be hard to verbalize otherwise. Go through these items and see if they provide insight or inspiration for your eulogy.

2. Organizing Your Thoughts

A. Choose a Theme or Focus

Choose a theme or focus for the eulogy to give it structure and clarity. A theme could be a personality trait, a lifelong passion, or the impact the person had on others. Once you have a chosen theme, it'll be easier to organize the anecdotes and memories that complement it.

B. Outline and Prioritize Key Points

List the key points or stories you want to share and prioritize them based on importance and relevance to the theme. This outline will help you create a natural flow for the eulogy, as well as serve as a guide when you start writing.

3. Writing the Eulogy

A. Crafting an Engaging Introduction

The opening of your eulogy should be engaging and set the tone for the entire speech. You can start with a memorable quote, a beloved anecdote, or a simple introduction of what the person meant to you. This will capture the attention of your audience and establish an emotional connection.

B. Sharing Personal Stories and Memories

Use the information gathered during your conversations with family and friends to share personal stories and memories that illustrate the essence of your loved one. This creates a genuine and heartfelt tribute, allowing your audience to relate and reminisce on their own experiences with the person.

C. Including Humour and Light-hearted Moments

A eulogy can provide solace and comfort during a time of mourning, and including light-hearted moments or humorous stories can bring a smile to the faces of your audience. Striking a balance between reverence and lightheartedness can help create an uplifting tribute to your loved one.

D. Concluding with a Heartfelt Message

The conclusion of your eulogy should provide closure and leave a lasting impression. Share your final thoughts or express gratitude for the time you had together, and invite others to carry on your loved one's legacy through their own actions and memories.

How To Write A Eulogy Wikihow Example:

Eulogy For A Devoted Father and Husband



Good afternoon. For those of you who don't know me, my name is Jane, and I am honoured to stand before you today, sharing cherished memories and celebrating the life of my wonderful father, John.







My father was known for his unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and community. His selflessness and love for those around him made him a beacon of support and an inspiration to many.







I remember the times when he would spend countless hours coaching my little league team, even after a long day at work. He passionately dedicated himself to helping us grow, not just as players, but also as responsible young individuals.







One particularly funny memory that I'd like to share is the time my father volunteered to bake a cake for our neighbour's birthday. If you knew my dad, you'd know that he wasn't the most skilled when it came to baking. However, with great determination and a pinch of luck, he managed to create a cake that actually tasted good – but let's just say that it wouldn't win any beauty contests!







My father's impact on those he encountered will be felt long after his passing. It is up to us to honour his memory by being the same pillars of support and love for others in our lives that he was for us. 







Thank you, Dad, for everything you've taught us and for the beautiful memories that will remain in our hearts forever.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a eulogy?

A eulogy is a speech given at a memorial service in honor of the deceased. It is a time to reflect on the life of the person who has passed, share memories and celebrate their legacy.

Who is typically responsible for writing a eulogy?

Usually, a close family member or friend is chosen to write and deliver the eulogy. However, anyone who felt a strong connection to the deceased and is willing and able to express their sentiments may do so.

How long should a eulogy be?

A eulogy generally lasts between 5 and 10 minutes, but it's essential to confer with the funeral director or ceremony organizer for any specific time constraints.

What are the key elements to include in a eulogy?

A eulogy typically includes a brief introduction about your relationship to the deceased, an overview of their life, touching personal stories, their accomplishments and legacy, and a heartfelt goodbye.

Can I use humor in a eulogy?

Yes, if it was characteristic of the relationship you had with the deceased and if it is respectful and appropriate to the setting. Humor can provide moments of lightness and humanity in a somber occasion.

What steps can I take to write a eulogy?

Start by gathering information and personal stories about the deceased, organize your thoughts into a structure, write a first draft, and then revise and practice it. Remember to take breaks and seek support if you need it.

How can I make my eulogy more personal?

Share specific anecdotes and qualities that are unique to the deceased. Talk about the impact they had on your life and others, and mention the small things about them that you will miss.

Is it acceptable to read a eulogy rather than memorize it?

Absolutely. It's quite common to read a eulogy from notes or a printed page, as it can be challenging to memorize under the emotional strain of a funeral.

What if I become too emotional while delivering the eulogy?

It is perfectly normal to show emotion. If you find yourself overwhelmed, pause for a moment, take a deep breath, and continue when you're ready. Keeping tissues at hand is also advisable.

Can I include religious content in the eulogy?

You may include religious content if it was significant to the deceased and their loved ones and if it's appropriate for the setting. Be sure to respect the beliefs of those present at the service.

Should I share the deceased's shortcomings?

A eulogy should focus on celebrating and remembering the positive aspects of the deceased's life. Mentioning shortcomings is not usually recommended as it may cause distress among the attendees.

Can I seek help when writing a eulogy?

Yes, it's encouraged to seek input from other family members and friends. They can provide different perspectives and remind you of stories you might have missed.

How do I handle sensitive family dynamics in the eulogy?

It’s best to steer clear of any topics that might cause tension. Focus on the memories that celebrate the deceased and bring people together.

What tone should I aim for in a eulogy?

The tone of a eulogy should be respectful and reflect the personality of the deceased. It can range from solemn to celebratory, depending on the context and the audience.

How can I practice delivering the eulogy?

Practice reading the eulogy out loud multiple times in a quiet space. You can also record yourself to hear how you sound or practice in front of a friend for feedback.

What if I’m not a good public speaker?

Delivering a eulogy is more about your connection to the deceased than public speaking skills. Speak from the heart and remember that your audience is supportive and understanding.

Is it necessary to include quotes or poetry in a eulogy?

While not necessary, including quotes or poetry that was meaningful to the deceased or that resonates with your sentiments can add depth and universality to your speech.

How can I conclude a eulogy effectively?

End with a strong, clear closing that both honors the deceased and offers comfort to the audience, such as a final message of love, a goodbye, or a moment of reflection.

Can a eulogy be too personal?

While personal details enrich a eulogy, it’s important to consider what is appropriate to share in public and what might be better kept within close family circles.

How soon after the person's passing should I start writing the eulogy?

It's best to start as soon as you are emotionally able, giving yourself time to revise and practice. However, the process is individual, and some may find they work better under tighter time constraints.

What should I do if I can’t find the words to express my feelings?

Take your time and speak with others who knew the deceased. Reflect on your feelings and memories, and remember that simplicity and sincerity are more impactful than complex or grandiose language.

We hope you find this guide useful and feel better prepared to craft a heartfelt eulogy for your loved one. Writing a eulogy is a deeply personal and powerful way to honour their memory, and your words will provide comfort and solace to family and friends. If you found this article helpful, please feel free to share it with others who may be going through a similar experience, and explore our other guides on Eulogy Assistant for more support during this challenging time.