Writing a eulogy can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve never written one before. Following a clear structure can help you create a meaningful and heartfelt tribute. Below is a guide to the key parts of a eulogy, how to write them, tips for building it, and common mistakes to avoid.
Eulogy Template: Start with an Outline
Eulogies typically include specific sections that help organize your thoughts and create a smooth flow.
Introduction
Begin by setting the tone and helping the audience understand your connection to the deceased.
- Introduce yourself and your relationship to the deceased.
- Thank those who have gathered for the funeral.
- Acknowledge the occasion with a tone appropriate to the audience.
Example:
“Good morning, everyone. My name is [Your Name], and I had the privilege of being [Deceased’s Name]’s [relationship]. Thank you all for being here today as we celebrate their life and remember the joy they brought to each of us.”
See also: How to start a eulogy
Early Life and Background
Provide a snapshot of the deceased’s early life to give context for who they were.
- Share where they were born and their family background.
- Highlight important milestones such as education or key formative experiences.
Personal Qualities and Achievements
Help the audience understand what made the deceased unique by sharing specific traits and accomplishments.
- Focus on their character traits, values, and the impact they had on others.
- Include achievements in their personal or professional life that highlight their contributions.
Stories and Memories
This section allows you to bring the deceased to life through memorable anecdotes.
- Share specific stories that show their personality and how they touched the lives of others.
- Use humor or heartfelt moments that resonate with the audience.
Legacy and Impact
Reflect on what the deceased has left behind and how their memory will endure.
- Talk about their family, work, or contributions to the community.
- Emphasize how they will be remembered and celebrated.
Closing Remarks
Finish with a heartfelt farewell that leaves the audience with a sense of hope or comfort.
- Summarize their life and what they meant to you and others.
- Include a favorite quote, poem, or religious passage to close the eulogy meaningfully.
- Also see: How to end a eulogy
Example:
“As we say goodbye to [Name], let us hold on to the joy they brought into our lives. May their memory inspire us to live with the same love and compassion they shared with the world.”
A Formula for Writing a Eulogy
If you’re new to writing a eulogy, following a formula can simplify the process.
- Plan the structure using the sections above as a guide. Write down bullet points for each part before expanding them into full sentences.
- Gather memories and stories from family and friends. Choose the ones that best represent the deceased’s personality.
- Add personal reflections that share how the deceased impacted you directly, making the eulogy feel more personal.
- Write conversationally, as if you are speaking to a friend, using simple and natural language.
- Keep it brief, aiming for about 5–10 minutes, to ensure the eulogy remains engaging and respectful.
Tips for Building a Eulogy
There are a few additional tips that can help you craft a thoughtful and effective eulogy.
- Start with an outline (below) to organize your thoughts before writing full sentences.
- Choose a tone that reflects the deceased’s personality, whether serious, lighthearted, or a mix of both.
- Practice your delivery by reading the eulogy aloud to ensure it flows well and fits the time allotted.
- Focus on the deceased person by keeping the content about their life and legacy, rather than your personal experiences.
- End with hope to comfort the audience and leave a positive impression.
Optional Additions
- Include humor if it aligns with the person’s personality.
- Mention any specific wishes they had for this moment.
- Use props or visual aids, like photos, if the setting allows.
What Not to Do in a Eulogy
Knowing what to avoid can help ensure your eulogy is appropriate and respectful.
- Don’t make it too long; speeches over 10 minutes may lose the audience’s attention.
- Avoid controversial topics or divisive subjects that could upset those present.
- Don’t exaggerate or fabricate details, as this can come across as insincere.
- Avoid negativity by focusing on positive aspects of their life rather than unresolved conflicts.
- Don’t wing it; prepare and practice in advance to avoid awkward pauses or forgotten points.
By following these steps and focusing on sincerity, you can create a heartfelt tribute that honors your loved one and provides comfort to those in attendance.
