How to Write a Eulogy
Losing a loved one is a devastating experience. In the midst of your grief, you may be asked to deliver a eulogy at their funeral or memorial service. This can be a daunting task, but it can also be a meaningful way to honor the memory of the person you’ve lost.
Here are some tips on how to write a eulogy:
- Start by gathering your thoughts. What are the most important things you want to say about the person you’ve lost? What are your favorite memories of them? What qualities made them special?
- Organize your thoughts. Once you have a good idea of what you want to say, start to organize your thoughts into a logical order. You may want to start with a brief introduction, then share some of your favorite memories, and end with a few words about what the person meant to you.
- Be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. The best eulogies are those that are personal and heartfelt. Speak from the heart, and share your own experiences and memories of the person you’ve lost.
- Be respectful. Remember that you are speaking in front of the person’s family and friends. Be respectful of their grief, and avoid saying anything that could be hurtful or offensive.
- Keep it brief. Eulogies should be brief, usually around 5-10 minutes long. You want to give people a chance to remember the person you’ve lost, but you also don’t want to drag on.
- Practice. Once you have a draft of your eulogy, practice reading it out loud. This will help you get comfortable with the material and make sure that it flows well.
Here is an example of a eulogy:
My name is [your name], and I am [your relationship to the deceased]. I am here today to share some of my favorite memories of [the deceased’s name].
I first met [the deceased’s name] when we were both in kindergarten. We quickly became friends, and we spent many happy hours playing together. We would build forts out of blankets and pillows, play dress-up, and make up stories. I remember one time when we were playing in the backyard and we saw a rainbow. We were so excited that we ran inside to tell our parents. That was the day I learned that rainbows are a sign of hope and new beginnings.
As we got older, we continued to be close friends. We went to the same schools, played on the same sports teams, and even went to college together. I was always impressed by [the deceased’s name]’s intelligence, kindness, and determination. They were a true friend, and I am so grateful for the time we had together.
[The deceased’s name] passed away on [date]. I was devastated by their death, but I know that they are in a better place now. I will never forget them, and I will always cherish the memories we shared.
FAQ
What should I do if I’m not sure what to say?
If you’re not sure what to say, start by thinking about the person’s life and what made them special. What were their interests? What were their accomplishments? What were their qualities? Once you have a good idea of what you want to say, start to organize your thoughts into a logical order.
What is the appropriate length for a eulogy?
Eulogies should be brief, usually around 5-10 minutes long. You want to give people a chance to remember the person you’ve lost, but you also don’t want to drag on.
What if I get emotional while I’m giving the eulogy?
It’s perfectly normal to get emotional while you’re giving a eulogy. If you start to cry, don’t be afraid to pause and take a moment to compose yourself. The audience will understand, and they will appreciate your honesty.
What should I wear to a funeral or memorial service?
The dress code for a funeral or memorial service will vary depending on the family’s wishes. In general, it’s best to dress respectfully, in dark colors such as black, navy, or gray. Avoid wearing anything too flashy or revealing.
What if I’m not religious?
If you’re not religious, you can still write a eulogy that is meaningful and respectful. Focus on the person’s life and what made them special. You can also share your own thoughts and feelings about death and loss.
