Funeral Speech Advice

What To Say For A Eulogy

What To Say For A Eulogy

Losing a loved one is never easy, and being tasked with delivering their eulogy can feel overwhelming and daunting. The eulogy is your opportunity to share cherished memories, express heartfelt emotions, and celebrate the unique life of your loved one with others. But what do you say in a eulogy? In this comprehensive guide, we'll provide you with insights, advice, and examples to ensure you deliver a fitting and memorable tribute.

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Key Elements of a Eulogy

A well-crafted eulogy typically includes the following components:

  • Introduction
  • Biographical information
  • Personal stories and memories
  • Quotes, poems, or readings
  • Farewell message

Introduction

The introduction serves as the opening statement for your eulogy. This is where you briefly introduce yourself and the purpose of your speech — to honour and remember the person who has passed away.

Biographical Information

Next, share some biographical information about your loved one. This should include their full name, when and where they were born, and any other relevant background information about their family, education, or career.

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You can also briefly touch upon their key accomplishments, skills, and passions, as well as any other information that helps paint a picture of who they were.

Personal Stories and Memories

The heart of your eulogy will be the personal stories and memories that illustrate the character of your loved one. Be sure to share anecdotes that capture their sense of humour, kindness, strength, or any other traits that stood out. This is also an excellent opportunity to highlight the impact they had on you and others, and how they will be remembered by those who knew them.

Quotes, Poems, or Readings

Incorporating a meaningful quote, poem, or reading can add depth to your eulogy. This may be something your loved one enjoyed or a passage that resonates with their life or personality.

Farewell Message

Conclude your eulogy with a heartfelt farewell message. This could be a final wish or blessing for the departed, words of consolation and comfort for the family and friends, or simply expressing your gratitude for the opportunity to share your memories and honour the person who has passed away.

What To Say For A Eulogy Example:

Introduction

Good afternoon, everyone. My name is Sarah, and I am truly honoured to be here today to speak on behalf of my dear friend, Elizabeth.

Biographical Information

Elizabeth Anne Johnson was born on July 8th, 1982, in a small town called Riverwood, Texas. As the daughter of Rose and Jack, she grew up surrounded by warmth and love. She was a bright student who went on to graduate with a degree in Environmental Science from the University of Texas.

Personal Stories and Memories

When I think of Elizabeth, the first thing that comes to mind is her infectious laugh and her passion for the outdoors. I remember how she would spend hours hiking through the wilderness, exploring every nook and cranny, and how she always brought back the most amazing photographs. She had a gift for finding the beauty in everything around her.

Elizabeth was also the most loving and loyal friend I have ever known. She was the first person to offer a shoulder to cry on during tough times and was always there with an encouraging word when I doubted myself. She had this magical ability to make everyone feel like the most important person in the room, and I will never forget the kindness and grace she showed to every person she met.

Quotes, Poems, or Readings

One of Elizabeth's favourite poets was Mary Oliver, and her poem "Wild Geese" reminds me so much of the way Elizabeth lived her life:

You do not have to be good.

You do not have to walk on your knees

For a hundred miles through the desert, repenting.

You only have to let the soft animal of your body

love what it loves.

Farewell Message

If I had to say one last thing to Elizabeth, it would be this: thank you for teaching us how to live life to the fullest, and for filling our world with so much love and laughter. You will be greatly missed, and forever cherished in our hearts. Rest in peace, dear friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start writing a eulogy?

Beginning a eulogy can feel daunting. Start by reflecting on your memories and jotting down significant stories or traits of the deceased. Think about what made that person unique and what others will miss about them. It can also help to talk with family and friends for more insights and shared experiences.

What should be included in a eulogy?

A eulogy typically includes an introduction, where you state your relationship to the deceased, a body, which includes personal stories, memories, and achievements of the person, and a conclusion that often ties back to the introduction with a final farewell or reflection on the person's impact.

How long should a eulogy be?

The length can vary, but a good guideline is to aim for about 5 to 10 minutes, which roughly translates into about 3 to 5 double-spaced pages of text. The key is to be concise while offering a heartfelt tribute.

How can I make my eulogy more personal?

To personalize a eulogy, include specific anecdotes and tributes that highlight the unique qualities of the deceased. You might recount a special moment you shared, a lesson they taught you, or their favorite sayings and hobbies.

Is it okay to include humor in a eulogy?

Yes, if it's done respectfully and in a way that reflects the spirit of the deceased. Humor can be a powerful way to celebrate a person's life and share a more rounded picture of their personality.

Can I include quotes or poems in a eulogy?

Including meaningful quotes, poems, or other readings can add depth to your eulogy. Be sure the content is fitting and echoes the sentiment you wish to convey about the departed.

What tone should a eulogy have?

The tone of a eulogy should match the essence of the deceased and the feelings of the mourners. Often it is a mix of somber reverence and a celebration of life, but it should always be respectful and considerate of the audience.

How do I deal with my emotions while delivering a eulogy?

It's natural to be emotional during a eulogy. If you become overwhelmed, take a moment to pause and breathe. Preparing by practicing the eulogy can also make it easier to maintain composure. Remember, it's okay to show emotion and it often resonates with the audience.

Should I include the cause of death in the eulogy?

Usually, the specific cause of death does not need to be mentioned unless it has significant relevance to the person's life story or legacy. Focus on celebrating the person's life rather than the details of their death.

What if there are negative aspects of the deceased’s life? Should I mention them?

A eulogy is meant to be a respectful tribute. It is generally advisable to focus on positive memories and impacts of the deceased. If negative aspects are well-known, they can be addressed subtly, but it's important not to speak ill of the dead during a eulogy.

Can I write a eulogy even if I'm not a family member?

Absolutely. Friends, colleagues, and other acquaintances can deliver heartfelt eulogies. What matters most is your connection to the individual and your ability to articulate their impact and essence.

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

If you're asked to speak about someone you didn't know intimately, gather stories and insights from those who did. Focus on what they shared with you and how they lived their life, as told by those who knew them best.

What is an appropriate way to end a eulogy?

A eulogy can be concluded in several respectful ways, such as with a moment of silence, a comforting quote, a poem, or a personal sentiment reflecting your final words to the deceased.

How do I practice delivering a eulogy?

Practice reading your eulogy aloud multiple times. This will help you become familiar with the flow and content, reduce nerves, and ensure you maintain a controlled pace. Practicing in front of friends or family members can also provide helpful feedback.

Is it acceptable to read from notes or should I memorize the eulogy?

It is perfectly fine to read from notes. Most people do not memorize eulogies, as the emotional nature of funerals can make it difficult to recall text from memory. Notes can also provide comfort and structure during delivery.

What should I do if I get too emotional and can't continue?

First and foremost, be kind to yourself; it is an intense and emotional moment. If you find yourself unable to continue, pause for a few seconds or ask someone beforehand to be prepared to take over if you need a moment to compose yourself.

How can I personalize a eulogy for a public figure or someone well-known?

In such cases, focus on the lesser-known stories or qualities that give insight into the person's character. Make it personal by sharing how the individual's life or work impacted you personally.

Is it inappropriate to make a eulogy interactive by asking others to share their memories?

Not at all; encouraging others to share their memories can be a beautiful way to create a collective tribute. This can be done by inviting people to speak during the eulogy or share memories afterward.

What if I don't feel like I'm the right person to give a eulogy?

If you truly feel uncomfortable, it’s okay to decline the opportunity. Giving a eulogy is an honor, but it can also be a significant emotional weight. If possible, suggest someone who may be better suited to speak.

Can a eulogy be delivered by more than one person?

Yes, a eulogy can be a shared effort. This allows for multiple perspectives on the person's life and can be a way to split the emotional task of delivering the speech.

Are there cultural or religious aspects to consider when writing a eulogy?

Definitely. Various cultures and religions have different practices and expectations surrounding death and funerals. It is important to be aware and respectful of these traditions when preparing and delivering a eulogy.

We hope that this guide has provided you with inspiration, guidance, and the confidence to craft a moving and memorable eulogy for your loved one. Remember, the eulogy is an opportunity to share stories, express emotions, and celebrate the life of someone dear to you. Speak from the heart, and your words will be cherished by all who have gathered to honour their memory. Please feel free to share this article with family and friends, and explore more guides on Eulogy Assistant for additional support during this difficult time.

Need a Eulogy?
Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One

Writing a eulogy for a loved one you have just lost, can be both challenging and painful. Alongside the pressure of delivering a meaningful tribute in front of other funeral guests.

Let our expert Funeral Speech Writers create a heartfelt & personalized eulogy, that captures the amazing life and memories of your loved one.

Learn more about our Professional Eulogy Writing Service today, and see how we can help you.

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About Zachary Scott

Zachary Scott, at the helm of the Funeral Advice Department, is known for his comprehensive insights into the funeral industry. His leadership in the Good Funeral Awards before joining Eulogy Assistant has been pivotal in recognizing excellence within the sector. Zachary's expertise and dedication to providing supportive guidance have significantly enriched Eulogy Assistant's offerings, helping families find solace and understanding during times of grief.