Losing a close friend or family member can be a challenging time, and the task of delivering their eulogy adds another layer of emotional weight. John McCain, an American hero, and well-known senator, knew the weight of this burden. He selected individuals to offer his eulogy that would not only pay tribute to his life but also convey his most important values and ideas.
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
In this article, we will explore who John McCain chose to deliver his eulogies, the reasons behind his choices, and how their words captured the essence of McCain's legacy. By the end, you'll gain insight into the thought and intention that went into selecting eulogy speakers for this iconic figure and inspiration for your own eulogy writing.
John McCain's Eulogy Speakers
When John McCain was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, in 2017, he began to plan for his funeral and memorial services. McCain personally selected former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama to deliver eulogies at Washington National Cathedral. Here's why these choices were significant:
Chosen for their Shared Values
Despite belonging to opposing political parties, Bush and Obama shared several core values with McCain. These included bipartisanship, patriotism, and a commitment to public service. By selecting these two individuals, McCain wanted to emphasize the importance of working together for the greater good, beyond personal or political differences.
Chosen for their Eloquence
Need a Eulogy?
Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One
Both Bush and Obama are known for their oratory skills and compelling public speaking style. By selecting these two individuals, McCain ensured that his eulogies would be delivered with the right balance of emotion, respect, and gravitas.
Chosen for their Personal Connections
Despite their political differences, McCain had close personal relationships with both former presidents. Over the years, they maintained a mutual admiration and understanding despite their diverging views. Choosing them as eulogists meant that the personal bond and shared experiences would be an integral part of McCain's memorial service.
Additional Speakers and Memorial Participants
In addition to George W. Bush and Barack Obama, several other notable figures played a role in McCain's memorial services, including:
- Former Senator Joseph Lieberman, a close friend who spoke at a memorial service in Arizona
- Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger
- Former Senator Kelly Ayotte
- Meghan McCain, John McCain's daughter
Each of these individuals brought a unique, personal perspective to their tributes, ensuring that John McCain's life and legacy were honored comprehensively.
Who Did Mccain Want To Give His Eulogy Example:
In 2018, the United States mourned the loss of Senator John McCain. At McCain's service on September 1, some of the most powerful moments came from the eulogies of his chosen speakers. Here are some excerpts from the speeches of George W. Bush and Barack Obama:
George W. Bush:
“He was honest, no matter whom it offended. Presidents were not spared. He was honorable, always recognizing that his opponents were still patriots and human beings.”
Barack Obama:
“So much of our politics, our public life, our public discourse can seem small and mean and petty, trafficking in bombast and insult and phony controversies and manufactured outrage. It's a politics that pretends to be brave and tough but, in fact, is born of fear,” said Obama. “John called on us to be bigger than that. He called on us to be better than that.”
These eulogies speak to the values that united them with McCain and the type of leader McCain endeavored to be. The speakers' words serve to honor McCain's life and legacy, emphasizing the importance of bipartisanship and unity in the face of adversity.
It is remarkable to consider the thought and intention John McCain put into selecting eulogy speakers that reflected his character and values, ensuring that his memorial service would become a united, bipartisan moment in honor of his life. By paying attention to your loved one's values, interests, and relationships when planning their eulogy or memorial service, you can ensure that their legacy is truly honored.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did John McCain want to give his eulogy?
Senator John McCain requested that former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama deliver eulogies at his funeral service. McCain’s choice was a reflection of his commitment to bipartisanship and national unity.
Why did McCain choose former presidents to eulogize him?
McCain believed in the symbolism of having former political opponents come together in a show of respect and unity. By choosing Bush and Obama, he hoped to send a message about transcending political divides for the greater good of the country.
Wasn't McCain a critic of both former presidents?
Yes, McCain did have disagreements with both Bush and Obama throughout his political career. However, his choice shows his willingness to respect and acknowledge his opponents, reinforcing the idea that political opposition does not prevent mutual respect.
How did McCain’s choices for his eulogists reflect his values?
McCain’s choices reflected his deeply held values of honor, duty, and sacrifice. By selecting individuals who were once his rivals, he highlighted the importance of country over partisanship and the value of reconciling after the fight.
Where did John McCain's funeral take place?
John McCain's funeral took place at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., on September 1, 2018.
Did McCain have any other specific requests for his funeral?
Aside from his choice of eulogists, McCain was quite detailed in his funeral plans, such as requesting that the hymn "Amazing Grace" be performed and ensuring that representatives from various institutions and his past campaigns were included as pallbearers or participants.
Did John McCain receive any state honors during his funeral?
Yes, John McCain lay in state at the Arizona State Capitol and the United States Capitol Rotunda, an honor given to leading figures in American history. He also received a full-dress funeral service at the United States Naval Academy.
Who else spoke at McCain’s funeral?
Other notable speakers at McCain's funeral included his daughter Meghan McCain, former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, and Senator Lindsey Graham, among others.
Was President Trump present at McCain's funeral?
No, President Donald Trump was expressly not invited to John McCain's funeral, a decision that was in keeping with the late senator's wishes.
What were some of the themes highlighted in the eulogies for McCain?
The eulogies emphasized themes such as patriotism, service to nation, honor, courage, and, importantly, the duty of bridging divides to work collectively for the common good.
How did McCain's choice of eulogists impact the public’s perception of his legacy?
McCain's choice of eulogists from both sides of the political spectrum reinforced his reputation as a maverick who prioritized national interest above party lines and has been widely respected for this even beyond his passing.
Did any military honors take place for McCain?
Yes, as a decorated veteran and former prisoner of war, McCain received full military honors as part of the services, including the presence of an honor guard, and a ceremonial flyover during his burial at the U.S. Naval Academy.
How has McCain's funeral been compared to those of past senators?
McCain's funeral has been compared to those of other prominent senators who were deeply respected across the political spectrum. The funeral was noted for its dignity, the bipartisan attendance, and the deep sense of national loss.
Were there any notable absences from the funeral?
Aside from President Trump, most of Washington's political leaders and past presidents attended the funeral. The absence of Trump was notable and widely commented on in media and political discussions.
What was the reaction of Bush and Obama to being chosen as eulogists?
Both expressed great respect for McCain and were honored to be chosen to eulogize him. They spoke of McCain’s character and contributions to the nation, reminiscing about their interactions with him, both in cooperation and in opposition.
How did McCain’s funeral impact the nation's political conversation?
McCain’s funeral, particularly the messages shared by the eulogists about unity and country-over-party, resonated with many people and served as a call to the nation for civility, respect, and bipartisanship in a highly polarized political climate.
What was the role of McCain’s family in organizing the funeral?
McCain’s family, particularly his wife Cindy and his children, played significant roles in organizing the funeral, ensuring that it reflected his wishes and values. His daughter Meghan provided one of the most memorable eulogies that embodied her father's spirit.
Did McCain's funeral procession pass any significant landmarks?
Yes, the funeral procession passed by significant landmarks including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, in recognition of his service and sacrifice during the Vietnam War.
How did the public participate in honoring McCain?
The public paid their respects in multiple ways, from lining the procession route, gathering at memorials, watching the broadcast services, and sharing tributes on social media.
What has been the lasting impact of McCain’s funeral on national discussions of civility?
McCain's funeral has become a point of reference in national discussions on civility, especially in politics. It served as a reminder of the potential for political adversaries to find common ground and of the enduring importance of character and honor in public service.
Was any specific legislation or formal honor proposed to commemorate McCain after his funeral?
After McCain’s passing, there were suggestions to rename the Russell Senate Office Building in his honor, among other tributes. However, as of the knowledge cutoff in 2023, no specific legislation renaming the building has been passed.
If you need any assistance crafting a eulogy for someone special in your life, Eulogy Assistant is here to help. Check our other guides, explore our vast resources, and consider sharing this article with friends and family members in need.