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Losing a loved one is never easy, and having to speak at their funeral can be an overwhelming experience. You might feel a sense of responsibility to find the perfect words to honour their life, memory, and the impact they had on those around them. In this guide, we'll help ease that burden and provide some insightful advice on what to say at the funeral. And, when you're done reading, we invite you to use Eulogy Assistant to craft a heartwarming, personalised eulogy in just minutes.
A eulogy, the centerpiece of any funeral service, should encapsulate the essence of the deceased and leave a lasting impression on the audience. Here are a few critical aspects to consider when deciding what to say at the funeral.
1. Share personal anecdotes
Telling stories about your loved one not only helps personalise the eulogy and showcase their unique qualities but also fosters a sense of connection among those present by reminding them of their interactions with the deceased. Look for moments that represent their character, make people smile, or inspire others.
2. Be genuine and heartfelt
When crafting your speech, focus on sincerity rather than perfection. People want to hear genuine emotions and a heartfelt message rather than a perfectly scripted piece. Share your focus, whether it is your love for the person or the lessons you've learned from them – it will resonate with the audience.
3. Mention their accomplishments and passions
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Discussing their achievements and passions demonstrates the impact that the deceased had on their community, career, or hobbies, and gives the audience a comprehensive view of who the person was in their lifetime. Be sure to strike a balance between their professional and personal life – they might have been a successful businessperson, but they also dedicated their weekends to volunteering at the local animal shelter, showcasing the different facets of their life.
4. Acknowledge their relationships
Mention the various people the deceased held dear – family, friends, and colleagues – and shed light on what they meant to them. This will create a strong sense of unity amongst the funeral attendees and provide comfort to those grieving.
5. Offer words of comfort
A funeral is as much for the living as it is for the deceased. Including comforting words of hope and solace helps the audience find peace and closure, and can include spiritual references, poems, or quotes that speak to the individual's beliefs or preferences.
What To Say At The Funeral Example
Suppose you're speaking at your aunt's funeral, who was known for her baking skills and love for gardening. Start by sharing a personal anecdote – how every Sunday without fail, she would have the family over for a bake-off, teaching you the secret recipes passed down through generations. Focus on your admiration for her passion and how these cherished moments cultivated a strong familial bond.
Discuss her achievements and mention her successful bakery business, but also delve into her countless hours spent tending to the local community garden. Touch on the relationships she cultivated, with not just family, but also friends, and employees at her bakery.
Conclude with a comforting message – that although she has passed, her love, strength, and passion for life continue to live on in everyone she touched.
Preparing what to say at a funeral can be a daunting task, but with a personal approach, genuine emotions, and the right balance of meaningful stories, you can craft a fitting tribute to honour your loved one. Our Eulogy Assistant is the perfect tool to help you eloquently express your feelings and create a personalised speech. In just minutes, we'll take you through thought-provoking questions and assist you in piecing together a heartfelt eulogy that will leave a lasting impression on all who attend.