How to Write and Deliver a Eulogy at a Funeral

This is part of our complete guide on how to prepare for a funeral.

Writing and delivering a eulogy is one of the most heartfelt ways to honour a loved one at their funeral. It offers an opportunity to reflect on their life, celebrate their character and share cherished memories with those present. The task can feel overwhelming, especially during an emotional time. Bridgwater Funerals guides you through the process of writing a meaningful eulogy, breaking down the key components and providing practical tips to make this important tribute as special and personal as possible.

A eulogy, also referred to as a funeral speech, is a spoken tribute delivered to commemorate the life of someone who has passed away. It might include memories, achievements, values and the unique traits that made the person special. Delivered by a family member, close friend or a celebrant, a eulogy can be deeply personal or more formal, depending on the audience and tone of the funeral service.

The beauty of a eulogy lies in its individuality. No two eulogies are alike, as no two lives are the same. Whether it's filled with humour, solemnity or both, the aim is to offer comfort and strength to those in attendance while honouring the deceased.

Starting a eulogy can feel daunting. Some simple ways to begin writing a eulogy include:

• Introduce Yourself: Begin by stating who you are and your connection to the deceased. This helps establish your relationship for those who might not know you.
• Acknowledge the Audience: Thank attendees for coming and acknowledge their shared sense of loss and love for the person who has passed.
• Set the Tone: Consider whether the eulogy will be lighthearted, formal or a mixture of both. This should reflect the personality of the loved one.

There is nothing right or wrong to include in a eulogy. Talk to other family members and friends if you're unsure what to include. Their memories can significantly enrich your speech. Some of the key elements to consider when writing include:

• Personal Memories: Share specific stories highlighting their unique character, kindness, or accomplishments.
• Characteristics and Traits: Mention defining characteristics or quirks that captured their personality.
• Timeline or Theme: Structure the eulogy chronologically, covering key life stages, or choose a central theme, such as their love for family, hobbies, or career.
• Anecdotes: Don't feel pressured to keep it overly serious. Stories or moments of humour can enliven the tribute, especially when they fit the individual's personality.
• Legacy and Achievements: Highlight professional or personal accomplishments and how they left a mark on the lives of loved ones.
• Sayings or Quotes: Include a special phrase, saying they loved, or a meaningful poem or quote reflecting their life.

Closing your eulogy is just as crucial as the opening. Aim for a lasting positive impression with the following:

• Express Gratitude: Thank the audience again for attending, and thank your loved one for the memories and unconditional love they gave.
• A Final Thought: Leave everyone with a meaningful thought, wish, or takeaway about the deceased.
• Farewell: Conclude the speech with a simple goodbye or a sentiment of love.

A typical eulogy lasts between three to five minutes. Some may extend to 10 minutes or longer, depending on what feels appropriate and how the service is structured. If you're concerned about time, ask the service organizer or officiant for guidance.

A eulogy is heartfelt, so it’s essential to be yourself. Some essential tips to follow include:

• Speak from the Heart: Your authenticity will resonate more than perfectly polished prose.
• Keep It Concise: Focus on a few memorable stories or key traits instead of trying to cover every detail of their life.
• Practice Out Loud: Reading your eulogy aloud several times will help you gauge the timing and get comfortable with the wording.
• Stay Calm: It's okay if you become emotional. Take a deep breath and pause if needed. Funeral attendees understand the weight of this moment.
• Use Cue Cards: Bring notes with the key points outlined, especially if you're nervous.

Bridgwater Funeral Services offers comprehensive funeral services tailored to your needs. A eulogy is a gift to the person who has passed and to all those who loved them. By sharing memories and celebrating their life, you're ensuring their legacy lives on.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, don't hesitate to ask for help. At Bridgwater Funeral Services, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us for compassionate support and assistance with planning a meaningful farewell.