From personal experience of writing my loved ones eulogy. I remember sitting with a pen in my hand, staring at a blank piece of paper thinking to myself, Where do I start? What should I say?
I hope that after reading this article it gives you some confidence and guidance on how to write and deliver a eulogy. There is no right, or wrong way to write a eulogy. You know your loved one best but it may help to ask family and friends to help. Perhaps they have a story or memory about your loved one that you never knew, that makes you laugh, that reminds you of a time where they were at their happiest or how they made an impact on someone else’s life.
Introduction
Think of it as if you are writing a story about their life. Start with an introduction. Perhaps introduce yourself, your relationship to the individual and thank those for attending the funeral service. Perhaps you are reading the eulogy on behalf of the family and they would like you to add in your own personal memories of their loved one.
Childhood
When and where were they born? What school did they go to? Did they have any hobbies? Are any of their Childhood friends in attendance or have any of them passed on some messages of sympathy that you could read out? (with their permission of course)
Stories / Memories
Have a think about the tone you wish for the eulogy to have. You may wish to have anecdotes or stories that will make people laugh. Perhaps you would rather the eulogy didn’t have any humour but would prefer it to convey your respect and thanks to the person for the impact they have had on your life. You could talk about their accomplishments, their career. It sometimes helps to write the eulogy in the format of a timeline.
Helpful Tips
If you have to take some time to compose yourself, or if you get emotional whilst reading the eulogy, understand that it is completely natural to do so. Take some deep breaths, pause as often as you need to and be yourself.
It can be nice to finish the eulogy with a quote that reflects the individual or perhaps a saying they were known for.
You do not have to deliver the eulogy. Your Minister or Celebrant would be honoured to, alternatively you could turn to a friend or family member.
If you are going to deliver the eulogy then it may help to ask someone to read it or listen to you rehearsing it, ask for feedback from a friend or family member.
Aim for a duration of 5-10 minutes.
Photocopy or print a couple of copies, please ask us if you would like us to print this for you.
The most important tip I can give you, is to remember that everyone wants you to succeed and everyone will appreciate how difficult it may be for you to read your loved ones eulogy.
