Writing a eulogy for a loved one is one of the most personal and meaningful tasks you’ll ever undertake. At such a challenging time, it can feel overwhelming to find the right words to honour their memory. Our guide, Tips for Writing a Eulogy, will help you write a eulogy that is simple, heartfelt, and meaningful.
What Is a Eulogy?
A eulogy is a speech given at a funeral or memorial service. It forms part of the funeral order of service and is a chance to celebrate someone’s life. You can share happy memories, talk about their qualities, and express how much they meant to you. Think of it as telling a story about the person.
Why Is a Eulogy Important?
A eulogy helps to bring comfort to others. It reminds everyone of the good times they shared with the person who has passed away. It can also help you to say goodbye. Writing a eulogy is a way to keep their memory alive.
Common Challenges When Writing a Eulogy
Writing a eulogy can feel daunting, especially during an emotional time. Here are some challenges you might face and how to overcome them:
- Feeling too emotional to write: It’s okay to take breaks and come back to it. Write small sections at a time instead of all at once.
- Worrying about public speaking: Practise reading your eulogy in front of a mirror or with a close friend. It’s okay to ask someone else to read it if you feel too nervous.
- Not knowing where to start: Begin with a simple memory or a list of the person’s qualities. This can help you organise your thoughts.
How to Write a Eulogy
Follow these simple steps to write a eulogy:
- Start with who they were: Write a few words about what made them special. You could say:
- What they were like (kind, funny, loving).
- What they enjoyed doing (gardening, cooking, music).
- Share a memory: Think of a happy or meaningful moment you shared with them. It could be:
- A holiday, a special day, or a funny story.
- A time they helped you or made you smile.
- Say what they meant to you: Speak from your heart. You could write:
- How they made a difference in your life.
- Why you will always remember them.
- End with a thank you: Thank them for the love, kindness, or joy they brought to your life.
Ideas for What to Say in a Eulogy
If you’re unsure of what to write, here are some phrases you can use:
- "They always made people feel welcome, no matter who they were."
- "One thing I’ll never forget about them is how they..."
- "They taught me the value of kindness and patience."
- "Their love for [hobby or passion] was something that brought joy to everyone around them."
Example of a Simple Eulogy
Here is an example to help you get started:
"Mum was the heart of our family. She always made us feel safe and loved. She loved baking, and her apple pie was the best in the world. I’ll always remember how she stayed up late helping me with my school projects. Mum taught me kindness and patience. I am so grateful for everything she did for us. We will miss her every day, but her love will stay with us forever."
How to Deliver a Eulogy with Confidence
Speaking in front of others can feel scary, but these tips can help:
- Practise ahead of time: Read your eulogy out loud several times to feel more comfortable.
- Take your time: Speak slowly and clearly. It’s okay to pause if you feel emotional.
- Have a printed copy: Bring a printed version to help you stay on track.
- Ask for support: If you feel nervous, ask a friend or family member to stand near you for reassurance.
Helpful Tips
- Keep it simple: You do not need to use big words. Speak from the heart.
- Write like you talk: Imagine you are telling a friend about the person.
- Practise reading it out loud: This can help you feel more confident.
- Take your time: It’s okay to pause or feel emotional when speaking.
Further Reading
If you’re planning a funeral service, you may also find these resources helpful:
Final Thoughts
Writing a eulogy is a deeply personal task, but it’s also a meaningful way to honour your loved one’s life and offer comfort to others. Take your time, speak from the heart, and focus on celebrating the moments that made them special.
If you need more help, feel free to get in touch. We are here to guide you through this process.
