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Funeral Speech Examples for a Heartfelt Eulogy

We hope our funeral speech examples will inspire you to write a heartfelt eulogy to honour your loved one.

Delivering a funeral speech can be a daunting task.  Quite apart from the challenge of speaking in front of people while in a highly charged emotional state, the task of actually writing the funeral speech can be overwhelming. 

We are here to help you tackle this important job especially if you are in a state of shock from the grief of losing your loved one.

Further down the page there are links to example eulogies for all loved ones, friends or colleagues to give you inspiration.

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Guidelines for Writing Funeral Speeches:

First of all, we have put together the following simple guidelines to help you to think of things to say: 

  • Speak from the heart and say how you feel about the person
  • Describe the person's qualities
  • Talk about their career, jobs, hobbies and passions
  • Talk about their relationships with family, friends and colleagues
  • Mention things that you inherited or learned from them
  • Perhaps mention some people who will be at the funeral
  • Mention a couple of funny stories if appropriate
  • Keep it real and don't be afraid of mentioning their less good points - you don't have to put them on a pedestal
  • Thank people for coming to the funeral and for their support

Next, read the following two pages to give you step by step instructions on writing the eulogy and giving the speech:  

'How to write a eulogy'  

'How to give a eulogy' 

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Eulogy Sample Speeches

All the following links are sample eulogies written about real people.  The ones for a father were written by myself and my brother when my Dad died.  The one for a mother was written by my mother (founder of this website) about her own Mum.  

Many of the others have been written for us by guest writers about their own lost loved ones.  

We hope they will give you some ideas for writing your own moving tribute.  

Nicholas Sparks This is not goodbye my darling

Eulogy Examples for a Father

Eulogy for a Father-in-Law

Eulogy for a Mother

Eulogy for a Mother by a Daughter

Eulogy for a Mother in Law

Eulogy for a Husband

Eulogy for a Wife

Eulogy for a Grandmother

Eulogy for a Grandfather

Eulogy for an Aunt

Eulogies for an Uncle

Two Eulogies for a Brother

One More Eulogy for a Brother

Eulogy for a Sister

Eulogy for a Best Friend

A Humorous Eulogy for a Friend

Eulogy for a Mentor

Eulogy for a Friend

Printable Eulogy Templates

Finally, to help you with your task of writing your funeral speech, we have some printable templates as a guide to write eulogies for adults and for children. 

Print them out and then fill in the information and stories for your own departed loved one.  

Free Eulogy Templates

Related Pages: 

Planning a Funeral - Step by Step

Funeral Music

How to Deal with Grief

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74 eulogy examples.

Eulogies are pieces of writing or funeral speeches that are typically shared at a funeral or gathering for someone who has passed away. The speeches often contain a description of the person who passed away, the kind of person they were and personal memories that the person delivering the eulogy finds meaningful to share. That being said, eulogies can be fully customized to fit your writing style and needs and can come in all types of formats. Somber eulogies, eulogies filled with stories, short eulogies, and funny eulogies are all common. The best eulogy speeches are those that are written from the heart.

How to write a eulogy

Outstanding eulogies posted on ever loved, example eulogy templates, eulogy examples for a friend, eulogy examples for a father, eulogy examples for a mother, eulogy examples for a grandmother or grandfather, eulogy examples for a son, eulogy examples for a brother or sister, eulogy examples for a grandson or granddaughter, eulogy example for an infant, eulogy examples for a parent, eulogy examples for a wife, eulogy examples for a coworker, eulogy examples for various professions.

Not sure where to start? Don’t know how to write a eulogy for a mother? Friend? Sister? Grandfather? Try to relax and remember that many people don’t know how to write a eulogy, especially for someone important in their life. To start, the main parts to include in a standard eulogy are as follows:

Introduction

A brief introduction usually looks like “Thank you all for being here” or “Thank you all for coming”. You’re acknowledging the audience and thanking them for sharing this time with you and yours.

Short story

Including a short story about your loved one is customary and is usually a story that really shows their personality or what about them made them special. If you’re interested in a lighter eulogy, consider sharing a funny story. For more somber atmospheres, stories about lessons taught by the individual or a story about their achievements is a great alternative. Other popular story topics include major accomplishments, life events, the impact the person had on others, childhood memories and years, stories about traveling, marriage, family, children, or other important stories.

Favorite memories

Similar to the story, it’s not unusual to see eulogies include one or two favorite memories the person had with the deceased. These memories can be of simple or complex moments; this is up to you and what feels right.

Important quote

If your loved one had a favorite passage, verse, quote, or poem, you can include it in the eulogy itself. Alternatively, if you have a passage or quote that you feel is relevant and important to share, you can include that as well.

You can end the eulogy by summarizing the impact this person had on the lives of others and by acknowledging the family and those who chose to attend the services again. It may also feel fitting to end the eulogy with a treasured quote or passage.

Order a eulogy

If you're looking for examples of real eulogies that have been written and read by folks on Ever Loved, here are some outstanding examples. Reading through example eulogies can help inspire you and guide you when it comes time for you to prepare a eulogy.

Shannon McMasters' eulogy

Written by Stephen McMasters Shannon McMasters' eulogy, written and read by her brother, Stephen, is a beautiful testament to a woman who Stephen describes as a "shining star that burned out too soon". Shannon's life was far from easy, but reading about her perseverance, determination, and strength and hearing her brother recount meaningful moments in their life and the impact she had on him and those around her is powerful. Shannon's eulogy is an example for those who are looking to honor the struggles and difficulties their loved one dealt with while remembering other important aspects of their life. Visit Shannon's memorial website to learn more about her life.

Read Shannon's full eulogy below:

Shannon had such a big life and touched so many people, it’s hard to know where to begin. Other than our mother, Shannon was the closest person to me growing up. I was basically raised by my mom and sister. Many of my earliest memories are of the two of us, singing Disney songs together, watching The Breakfast Club on rerun, and of course, fights in the backseat of the car. Later in life, she was the cool big sister. And I wanted to be just like her. I have so many fond memories with Shannon, from the University of Florida to moving cross-country to Los Angeles and on to Atlanta. I would not have done many of these things if not for her. Shannon was my best friend. We laughed at everything together, our sense of humor was nearly identical. We bonded over music sharing two of our top three favorite bands. People even said we look alike, which I was never sure was a compliment or not. The bulk of my life was spent with Shannon; it’s hard to believe she’s gone. She was a shining star that burned out too soon. I don’t know too many people that met Shannon and didn’t have something wonderful to say about her. She truly had a gift to connect to people, understand them, make them feel special and like they mattered. I believe she got this gift from our mother who also had a knack with people. Everyone’s life was brighter having known my sister, especially mine. People think Shannon was lucky to have me, but I was lucky to have her. I know I would not be the person I am today without her. She was always positive and believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. Because of her, my dreams were bigger, my achievements were bigger, my life was bigger. Shannon was fearless in her pursuits; she accomplished so much in her short life. She graduated from UF, double-majoring in Political Science and Theatre. She then graduated from UCLA Law. She obtained degrees from both institutions while enduring bone marrow transplants. Later she went to cosmetology school at the Aveda Institute in Atlanta. I think it’s fair to say Shannon was dealt a rough hand from the start. In 1997, and again in 2004, she was diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia, an extremely rare disease in which the bone marrow quits producing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Even with a donor, chances of survival are still not 100%. Fortunately, I was a match. I was Bone Marrow Boy as Shannon liked to call me. Throughout both transplants, she had to undergo chemotherapy, hospital isolation, and months of recovery before returning to her normal life. Her oncologist declared her in remission in 2012, but she suffered from graft versus host disease, which caused numerous side effects both internally and externally. For years she took cancer-causing immunosuppressant drugs to suppress her immune system so her body would not reject my marrow. Not only did Aplastic Anemia do tremendous damage to her body, it wreaked havoc on her mind. Doctors told Shannon she would not live passed 40 and would likely be barren. I can’t imagine hearing this as an 18 year-old. Living more than half of her life with a terminal illness resulted in clinical depression and PTSD. She was also told she may develop mental disorders later in life due to her extraordinary illness. As a young adult, her way of dealing with the condition was to not be emotional or vulnerable. She dealt with her illness by pushing it aside and pursuing her academic and career goals, leading many of us to forget that she was ever sick at all. Music, painting, and dancing also played significant roles in my sister’s healing. Shannon viewed dance as therapy. In 2014, she was a research participant in one of my school projects. She tied her connection to music and dancing directly to her illness. She stated, quote, “It’s where problems don’t exist. When you’re not thinking of everything else going on in your life, therefore your anxiety is reduced. Moving and dancing to music makes you happy. You’re not feeling depressed. It’s all about the whole getting lost in the moment. That’s a lot of what Buddhist practice is, staying in the present.” My sister seemed to have found peace in those moments of presence on the dance floor. She also found peace through painting, which she spent a lot time doing the last five years. I think that’s one of the many reasons we all loved Shannon, she made us feel special every moment we were with her. We were present because we felt her presence. In the summer of 2015, Shannon had her first psychotic break. Later that year, she was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder borderline Schizoaffective Disorder. Mental illness would prove to be the battle of Shannon’s life. She really struggled those last few years. During this time, her mind was changing and she was helpless to stop or reverse it. She lost many of her close connections, not because she OR we didn’t want them, but because she was trying to navigate her new reality that included mania, paranoia, and delusions. Losing our mother in 2021 and her dogs Osa and Kiki back-to-back was just too much to handle. She was hurting and trying to survive the only way she knew how, but I know she did not want to hurt herself and what happened was an accident. She told me not too long ago that she knew she was never going to be the same again, and she hated her illness and what it had done to her. It just isn’t fair what happened to Shannon. In the end, I think she felt misunderstood and no longer accepted, and that’s what hurts the most. I think she felt alone, like she didn’t have anyone. That’s the tragedy of mental illness, not just because of what she went through, but it’s hard for us to understand and even when we try to help, relationships suffer. Unfortunately there were no easy answers or quick fixes, and I underestimated her ability to cope with her illness. The transplants may have saved her life before, I just wish I could’ve saved it again. Sometimes I feel I didn’t do enough and maybe I’ll always feel guilt for that. Shannon recently told me she prayed to God frequently to take her. I think she was ready to go. I think she has been ready for a while. She felt she had a bigger purpose beyond this place. She came into our lives briefly, laughed with us, cried with us, danced with us, made us smile, made us feel special, then left as quickly as she arrived. Maybe that was her purpose here, to have a positive impact on all of us by leaving us better than she found us. I suppose death is what makes life beautiful, knowing that our time here is finite, to make the most of it and remember what is important. Shannon reminded us of that. When she died, a part of me died too, but a part of her and our mother will always live on in me because they make up so much of who I am. While my heart is broken that she is gone and I will never see my sister again in this life, a part of me feels that she is no longer suffering and is at peace with our mother in God’s kingdom. Some birds simply aren’t meant for this world, their feathers are too bright. That’s how I’ll always remember Shannon, and God called her home to be with our mother.

Juanita Pearce's eulogy

Written by Christopher Cost Juanita Pearce's eulogy, written with love and forethought by her grandson Christopher, is a wonderful example for those who are looking for a unique way to deliver a eulogy for a loved one. Christopher gives beautiful insight into Juanita's life by describing one of his earliest memories, describing how she was throughout her life, and what kind of emotional impact she had on all those she knew. Her dedication to her family and willingness to sacrifice for the good of others is detailed throughout his tribute. Additionally, Christopher takes the time to address members of the family, a beautiful departure from the standard eulogy format that makes Juanita's eulogy incredibly heartwarming and unique. Visit Juanita's memorial website to learn more about her life.

Read Juanita's full eulogy below:

Good morning. I am Christopher, Juanita’s grandson from her daughter, Debbie. My nearly 42- year life is right about the length of the job she retired from. She made it to her 89th birthday and then some. From her birth in 1933 to her retirement was just around 60 years. I still have 18 years to get to that point. A lot can happen within that time span. Memory and Truth are funny things. My memory tells me that of all the family, I feel I may have spent the most time with her. The truth is that of all the people that have been in my life, my grandma is the one that has been the most present and participatory. One of my earliest memories of time with my grandma, which is a bit fuzzy at this point in my life, is going to work with her during a summer I was staying with her. She was a manager at Southwestern Bell and visitors had to wear a special badge. What I remember is that I was playing with the alligator clip on the badge and managed to pinch and hurt my finger. I remember my grandma and many other grandmas running to my rescue. I remember my grandma taking me to see these giant catfish that were bigger than me at the time. I remember that I was being a dumb kid and fell and hurt my wrist and she found a way to get me patched up. I still have the scar. My earlier memories may be fuzzy and even failing me, but the truth isn’t: my grandma was always there for me, no matter what. For many of you, perhaps family most of all, that knew grandma before our car accident in 2004, there may be memories of a woman with strong beliefs. You may have memories of her sharing her opinion, and perhaps even memories of some strong judgments and prejudices. For those of us that were especially close to her, we likely also have memories of her always learning and growing into a person that overcame her prejudices. What I remember is she became a woman that even with her opinions, and attitudes, and judgements, never let that get in the way of doing the right thing and rendering aide and support when it was needed. The truth is I’ve only collected two-thirds the memories that my mother and uncle can recall. Her elder sister and only surviving sibling Helen may be able to recall my grandmother’s entire lifetime as memories. The truth is memories are but glimpses and moments and no singular memory or even the collection of memories from a single person will ever adequately define an individual. A lot of you may be blessed by only the last few years of my grandma’s life. I dare say they may be some of the richest blessings you may receive. Truth be told, for as long as I have memories of her, they are made up of sacrifice and offering, one after another. Be it driving to Texas to take care of her grandchildren when my uncle and aunt had to go on a trip or an overnight drive into the mountains of Arkansas to help my mom care for me and my sisters. Or middle of the night runs to the emergency room when one of my sisters or myself had an emergency and mom needed support. No matter the reason, no matter what she was doing, my memories are of a woman who was always there for her family. These last 18 years of my grandma’s life were some of her most challenging. Yet, while she always brought her ornery and cantankerous personality, she also brought every bit of survival fight and strength of character to fill my memories with a woman who scaled an ever-increasing mountain of health and physical and mental challenges. For the 8- and one-half years I directly cared for my grandma following the accident, we tackled daily physical and occupational therapy at my parents’ house and then at the clinic until she could finally return to her own home. We later battled through a relocation to find her and me a new home that was better suited for her ongoing needs and care, to only then face breast cancer before getting into thyroid surgeries. My mother then took over for a few years on daily care before my sister Rebecca took over principal care and support in 2020, just as the pandemic hit. Most of you have your own memories of these last two or three years that I ask for you to recall as I share what I believe of the last few years of my grandma’s life. I believe the truth is that our individual and collective memories tell of a woman that continued to be there no matter what the situation was. They tell of her being a person of support, care, and growth both personally and as an example for everyone around her. And I believe that she will continue to be that person in spirit through the end of each of our lives and the lives of each life we touch. I would like now to speak directly to a some of our family that have been part of Grandma’s daily life and were crucial in the ongoing fight my grandma put up these last 18 years. Kylie, You may never understand how important you were to Grandma Juanita. You were born just ahead of our car accident that changed her life forever. By the time she came to your grandma’s and grandpa’s house for her recovery, you were a source of ongoing reason for her to keep going. I hope that you will from time to time calm your mind and heart to just let her example of love and value for family guide you as you enter your adulthood. RyLee and Lora, She didn’t play favorites often--I should know because I did spend so much time with her--but she does have a special connection with each of you. Ava, Your video calls lighted your Grandma Juanita’s day and gave her a bright smile. To Owen, You don’t understand this today, but Grandma Juanita will always be with you. You were her source of strength and inspiration to keep fighting when her life was turned upside down going from living alone to living with you, your two big sisters and brother, your mom and dad, and the dogs. It was not an easy adjustment for her, but she was able to make that transition because of you. And as your Grandma Debbie and mommy will remind you in the years to come, your partner-in-crime will always be with you, even if you cannot remember her. And, to Kaison and Gavin, the twins, You brought her fresh spirit when her life was yet again shaken with a relocation and then her stroke earlier this year. To my dad, David, Despite your own health, you found the energy to help grandma with her laundry and as always, the two of you continued to keep each other on your toes in conversation. To my brother-in-law Matthew, you helped to clean up messes and did a lot of the heavy lifting with RyLee to relocate her lifetime of things to the new house and storage. To her sister Helen, I know that having a close relationship with you, and your brothers Dillard and Dalford when they were still with us, was very important to her. And, to all of grandma’s family and friends with whom she spoke or saw, there have been so many “cooks in the kitchen,” but she was always grateful for each of you. You each played a role greater than you may know in her ability to continue bringing us blessings and love for 89 years. To my sister Rebecca, who possesses a soul of infinite compassion and caregiving, I want to thank you for the life you were able to let our grandma keep. I may have taken care of her first, but you stepped up and took care of her when she needed support and assistance that allowed her to retain her dignity and privacy in a way a grandson couldn’t provide. And, finally, to her daughter, my mother, You’ve been here as a coordinator and source of medical knowledge and wisdom that completed out and has been no less important than the direct care Rebecca and I provided. Life has thrown you one personal or family health challenge after another, and you have continuing challenges in front of you. Always remember that you too can always calm your mind and heart to allow your mom’s strength and guidance to pick you up when you’re in doubt or facing uncertainty. Death is not the end! It is merely another step we must all take. For those of faith and spirituality that believe Juanita is in Heaven with God, death on Earth is but her means to move to that eternal life. And, for all of us, her death is merely a transition to an ongoing presence on Earth for as long as we each continue to keep her memory within us and grow from her and for as long as you each keep her as part of your truth. In a few hours, some of us will go on a bit of drive to Anadarko to inter her body with her parents and two of her brothers. For as far back as I can remember, this was an annual pilgrimage over Memorial Day weekend. Each year, I can recall the same story as we would pass by Sonic on the highway. Grandma would always remind us that she grew up in a house behind that Sonic. I don’t think that specific Sonic is still there. But for any of you that join us for the burial this afternoon, as you enter Anadarko and see what looks like an old Sonic on your right, let it be a reminder of how precious memories are. For me, I will always remember my grandmother as the woman that took me to the store to get hamburger meat, go home and cook spaghetti and Ragu, spread towels on the floor in front of the TV, and watch movies while we ate on those towels. No matter what memory of her beliefs, opinions, and judgments, I will always know the truth is Grandma loved me, her family, and her friends. The truth is she wasn’t only present, she was actively participating when present. It is in great part through her example and pruning that I am the person I am today. I thank you, Grandma, for every gift and lesson and moment you gave me, and there are nearly 42 years of them to draw on. I love you and carry you with me always!

Barbara Burton Kleinert's eulogy

Written by Christine Maszkiewicz This beautiful eulogy is a wonderful example of how to interweave testament to someone's personality and character with the core occassions of their life. Barbara's eulogy is able to paint a thorough picture of what she enjoyed, what she was passionate about, how she was as a mother, her educational and career choices, and so much more. It's clear that anyone who had the privilege to listen to this eulogy (or to read it in its written form) was given a wonderful opportunity to learn deeply about who Barbara was as a mother, partner, friend, and person. To learn more about Barbara's life, visit her memorial website .

Read Barbara's full eulogy below:

Hello everyone, I am Christie Maszkiewicz, Barbara’s daughter. Today we come to honor and remember the life of Barbara Kleinert. My mother passed away four months exactly from the day my father passed away this year. We sit here in the same spot where we held his memorial back in February. It’s surreal. My family is still dealing with raw heartache from his death and now we are all feeling the pain from hers as well. They both left a void in our hearts. My brother and I are now without our dear parents. My nephews have lost both grandparents on their father’s side. It’s been a tough year so far so I want to thank you all for coming out to remember Barbara and to support this family once again while we are all trying to come to terms with such a great loss. I know many people could not make the trip to Colorado for health reasons or travel reasons. Barbara’s sister Laurie, brother Dave and niece Jenny all are here in spirit and watching online from the east coast and beyond. They wish they could be here today. They joined my brother and I and our spouses in the days leading up to my mother’s passing. We sat around her bed and talked with mom and reminisced about our time with Mom. At times I know for sure that Mom heard and reacted to what we were saying. She was surrounded with family and love in her last days and to me that is the most important thing. Love you Laurie, Dave and Jenny. Thank you, guys, for being there and for being here virtually today. My mom, Barbara was a sincere and warm person. She was a daughter, a grandchild, a niece and then a big sister. She was a close friend, a parishioner, a nurse and a teacher. She was a wife, a sister-in-law, an aunt, and a grandma. To many in her life she was a listener, a singer and a hand to hold. To me she was my mom. My mom loved to care for others throughout her life. My aunt Laurie told me one of her earliest memories was Mom, known as Barbie to Laurie, picking her up out of her crib when she was upset one night, holding and comforting her. During my mom’s childhood she grew up feeling unseen and unheard; she felt she didn’t really fit in or live up to her mother’s expectations. Her heart though was full of love, she turned those feelings of hurt into good. She reached out and helped others to make them feel seen, to make them feel heard. Her passion growing up was very much the church and music. She learned piano but found the guitar to be her instrument of choice and she used it throughout her life to bring song into a youth group or on a mission trip. When she was older, she went to nursing school to help others. Giving of herself was her calling. In her mother’s last year’s my mom was by her side and took care of her and the two eventually made peace. My mother was persistent about peace and understanding between those she loved. Mom was always involved in hobbies that helped others; she even met my dad through her volunteering activities. They met at the U.S.O. in New Jersey where she volunteered. Through her giving spirit she and my dad saw each other through some rough early years. Mom worked nights so dad could work and go to school. She juggled raising a young son while working long hours and supporting her husband. Eventually when a second child came along, she stopped working to be a stay-at-home mother and continue supporting her husband as he continued working and pursuing a Master’s Degree. My brother and I don’t have early memories of daycare, we have memories of being home with mom. Memories of being loved and cared for by her. That was a sacrifice she made, family was very important to her and I know we both appreciate the fact that our parents made that choice. When she went back into the workforce, she had to volunteer to get experience, since a Nursing degree wasn’t enough apparently. She volunteered and eventually worked in the school district with severely handicapped children. The passion she had for helping others became a lifelong career. Mom was always devoted to helping others, through her church St. Michaels in Colorado Springs, she joined the prison Ministry Kairos. I remember as a child answering the phone on weekends when mom was away on a Kairos Retreat. I very politely told the caller that mom was not here right now, she was in prison, could I take a message? My parents always got a chuckle out of that. As a child I connected with my mom’s fun spirit. She was childlike in the sense that she found wonder and beauty in the world where ever she went. She loved animals and nature. As child she had a bunny named Thumper that she adored. Later when she married my dad they acquired a pet skunk named Flower….I think we can figure out what name a pet deer may have acquired. Growing up we couldn’t have a dog or a cat since dad was allergic. With two kids and a wife wanting a critter he and mom figured out a way to make a guinea pig work with dad’s allergies. We had a spotted female named Cutie for a time and then we brought home Skeezics, a red spiky haired guinea pig. My mother had so much fun with him. We’d let him run around the living room and race down the hallway of the house. Many times mom had to help dad dismantle the huge sleeper sofa to get the guinea pig out from underneath where he was hiding. My mom would also sing various songs to the guinea pig, especially at treat time. That little pig would squeak so loudly when he heard the song….”What Shall we get for the Pig” since he knew he was getting a tasty treat. When we moved from CO to VA it was very hard on our family. Mom made sure to help us kids adjust and get involved in activities. As a horse crazy 8-year-old I wanted my own pony. The next best thing, riding lessons. My mom was at every single riding lesson camera in hand. She stood at the fence cheering me on as I learned new things like cantering or jumping. When I had my first fall she rushed to my side and as the old adage tells you, encouraged me to get back on. I’m sure as a mother that goes against many instincts to encourage a child to continue something that injured them. That next week she got me up early every morning so I could soak in a warm bath to ease my pain. In VA my mother continued with Kairos Prison missions but also got involved in Therapeutic riding for special needs children. I joined her a few times at the farm helping with the horses. She loved working with the children. They would come alive up on horseback, it relaxed them and they responded to the games mom and other volunteers played to engage the children. The smiles were just as bright on her face as they were on the children’s. My mother continued to love critters even after our family didn’t have any more pets. Our deck in the back of the house was not our deck. We didn’t have patio furniture or a hot tub out there. Nope, we had birds and squirrels lined up on every single railing eating the seeds and peanuts placed out there by mom. At night we ended up having raccoons at times. One evening there must have been 12 raccoons eating the seeds and other goodies mom fed to the critters. A special guest was Petey, a Virginia Opossum. This little critter loved noodles with BBQ sauce a specialty my mother whipped up for for her culinary delight. Mom spent hours taking photos of this sweet little creature. One day the opossum was still there in the morning and we watched her run off the deck to the underside of the front porch. She came back out with 10 babies clinging to her back and headed off into the woods. Mom made sure we all there to see it and she took pictures of the spectacle. Growing up loving animals just like my mother I didn’t have to look far to find a fuzzy or feathery friend to enjoy. My mother would often take in the birds that flew head first into the window. She would let them rest in a darkened aquarium until they came out of shock and then released them back to the woods. One such incident occurred with a little Tufted Titmouse, aptly named Tufty. He hit the window and needed help. When mom went to catch him, the little guy flew into the house and into the powder room that I was just exiting. My mom and I spent 15 minutes trying to catch that little bird to get him back outside. As I got older and moved on to college and beyond, I acquired the pets I didn’t have growing up, the fuzzy allergy triggering ones. My mother and father loved their grand-dog Spencer. He was a silly little Jack Russell Terrier. Mom never begrudged the fact that I didn’t want children of my own she accepted her four legged grandchildren. Every time I brought Spencer over you would hear the shrill voice of mom bellowing “Grand-Dog! Grand-dog”. He certainly was a spoiled grandchild. When I finally got my pony, my mother was there to meet her, happy as a clam to see me with Daenerys and to share the moment. My mother was constantly documenting our lives with photos. This was before digital photos which now everyone takes pictures of EVERYTHING. My mom invented that; out would come the camera and us kids would groan. Now we have boxes and boxes of memories to sort through that I know we will cherish as we walk down memory lane and thank her for being the shutterbug she was. Kodak stayed in business for a long time because of mom! My mother was the ever-present cheerleader and moral compass of our family. She brought a light to our lives, she often instigated fun but was also patient when we stepped out of line. Surviving my teenage years is a testament to the patience and love my mother had for her family. One hard part I’ve learned about losing someone is having to go through their belongings. Though I will state this act can shed light on memories that will warm the heart. So honestly this burden is one my brother and I are happy to take on. While looking through some books I came across a note mom wrote. She made many notes and comments in nearly every book she read. This particular note though was about parenting. She wrote that parents will make many mistakes. These mistakes shouldn’t really matter if the child knew they were loved. And mom, yes….we knew we were loved. Very much so. This year has been a hard year but with all the tragedy and difficult times we’ve had to endure, this year has been a year full of love, last moments and memories. I cherish these memories and they bring me comfort that there was so much love. I hope each of us can reflect on the memories we have of my Mom, Barbara….and that those feelings can bring us all comfort. We will love you forever Mom. We will love you forever.

Barbara Fritsche Olmanson's eulogy

Written by Leif Olmanson Written in the form of detailed descriptions of different memories Leif had with his mother, Barbara's eulogy is a perfect example of the how the accumulation of small moments woven together end up creating a beautiful landscape of a life well lived. Leif's description of each memory that he cherished with his mom is a perfect way for the reader to gain an understanding of the type of woman Barbara was and the effect she had on those around her. For those looking to share a eulogy that's built on memories, Leif's eulogy is a wonderful place to gain inspiration. To learn more about Barbara's life, visit her memorial website .

Read the full eulogy below:

Remembrances of Mom: When she was ten years old our mother was baptized at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in New Ulm, but I think one reason she chose the Church of the Holy Communion for our family was because of the beauty of the church and its history. I recall being told that the ceiling was designed to look like an upside-down ship—basically a vessel to bring the parishioners to heaven. And that the stained-glass windows came from England by sailing ships and overland by ox cart. The Dodd family grave in the back of the church evokes pioneer history. Mom had a keen interest in local history, and this Episcopal Church building is a living reminder of that history. The obituary focuses on Mom’s love of travel, especially their long trip to Burma and their service to a disadvantaged part of the world under difficult conditions. I think this was a formative experience for them—at times a trial by fire. In some ways, they must have been different people by the time they returned to resume their life in St. Peter. It was a few months after they returned to St. Peter that I (Leif) was born, and my little sister Lori followed shortly. With six kids you would think that the adventures would stop, but that was not the case. Although sometimes they traveled without the kids, often they brought all of us or some of us along. There were memorable trips to the Boundary Waters, Canada, the Black Hills, Florida, Yucatan, and the Cayman Islands. These trips instilled a sense of travel in all of us. Long after we all left home, when Mom was 70 and my sister Trudi was 40, she decided to fulfill her bucket list. It started with Trudi and Thor traveling with my parents to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Other adventures included Peru - Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca, Panama (with Trudi and Eric), Norway and Germany (with Trudi and Eric), and Trinidad and Tobago (with Trudi, Leif, and grandkids Britta and Anders) where I made the mistake of calling my parents elderly when we were inquiring about a boat trip. I was set straight by Mom right away but had reason to be concerned since the docks were in bad shape and the captain had to time the waves to get them on and offboard. There were also several trips to Mexico with each of her children and several grandchildren joining them. The most memorable trip was for Mom’s 80th Birthday where Trudi and I were with them for the entire 21-day trip and all but one of the other siblings and Anders joined for a week. We started in Puerto Morales (a great discovery and location we returned to many times for easier traveling as our parents aged) and then went to Tulum. From there we headed to Xcalak (which was one mile from Belize) and ended up staying at a scuba diver training facility which was cool since they had students from around the world and for the diving trips, we were outnumbered by diving instructors. Mom and Dad enjoyed the snorkeling and bird-watching trip. For such a small fishing village they had some great restaurants with some interesting locally sourced gourmet dishes. We were having a great time and I was using my iPod to text my brother Thor to tell him to come to Xcalak. He misunderstood my messaging and indicated he would meet us in Punta Allen. When Mom heard that we were off to meet Thor in Punta Allen. The travel books said the road from Tulum to Punta Allen was anywhere from 1 to 4 hours depending on road conditions. Well from Xcalak we had a 4-hour drive to Tulum and what turned out to be another 4 hours to Punta Allen. (This long drive was the first time I noticed signs of Alzheimer’s in my dad.) Amazing how well my mom and dad were able to cover it from us. So back to the story. It had been raining so the roads were more like small lakes than a road. With mud puddles covering most of the road and as it turns out it was the route for the adventure Jeep tours you would see if you would go on a cruise or to a big resort. So, there we are in our Jetta size car with luggage and five passengers, Anders on the hump in the back seat. Since the few people that lived on this route did not like the jeeps ripping up the road, they would put in Jeep size road bumps to slow them down. So, every time we came upon one, I would stop and have everyone get out of the car to make it over the bump. After we finally got to Punta Allen the streets were not any better since they were also flooded. We met up with Thor and his girlfriend at the time and had a wonderful time with some great food and company. The adventure continued with Schelli, and Lori joining us Back in Puerto Morelos and trips to Chichen itza to recreate childhood photographs and Ek Balam. A great and memorable trip. Other memorable occasions: Dad and Amby were working on the Ford Model As that were being used for Schelli and Amby’s Wedding parade. Right before the ceremony, Mom saw Amby and took him into the bathroom of the church and said no man would marry her daughter with greasy hands, so she helped him scrub the grease off. When she was babysitting Marty when he was 3, he helped her pick berries and make jam. When Schelli picked him up, he had dark red around his mouth, and she said “the jam must have been good”. Mom gave her a funny look and brought a washcloth over and said, I think he got into a Woodtick that fell off the dog. Picking Morel mushrooms, canoeing, her amazing cooking inspired by traveling including braunschweiger dip, kawswe, elderberry Kiekle, Burmese curry, homemade sauerkraut, and her conch ceviche Mom was always willing to go, whether it was dancing, fishing, going to the lake and tubing behind the boat, and paddle boarding at 80, and they really enjoyed garage sales. Mom was an anchor for our family. She took care of us when we were sick, fed us, taught us about nature and history, and encouraged our interests. She was the keeper of holiday traditions, adapting her more German Christmas traditions by adventurously adding her husband’s annual Norwegian delicacy: LUTEFISK. Regular Christmas guests were: Violet, Charles, and Pauline Kinson (Violet’s shrimp paste), Bernie Bornhagen (black mustard for the lutefisk), and other friends we adopted along the way. One Christmas when we all arrived Mom said they had noticed an awful smell in the house. They remembered their Springer Spaniel dog (Spike) had a dead squirrel in the yard. Sure, that she must have brought the carcass into the house they did a thorough search of the house and to their surprise, they discovered a piece of lutefisk under a chair. The dog must have grabbed it out of the bucket it was soaking in. Dad told us that he rinsed it off and put it back in the bucket. We were pretty sure he was joking. Lots of great memories and we will miss her greatly!

Juliann Therese Weimholt's eulogy

Written and read by Josef Weimholt In Juliann's eulogy, Josef does an excellent job at delivering many of the details you'd find in a eulogy in a loving, descriptive, and beautiful way. In addition to thanking the community, describing his mother's impact on those around her and her character, Josef includes a beautiful and creative tribute to his mother with additional context and pledges for what he aims to do in the future to honor his mother. To learn more about Juliann's life, visit her memorial website .

Good morning. Before I begin, I want to take the opportunity, on behalf of our entire family, to thank all of you for being here today—in person, in this beautiful, old church that our mom loved so much, or virtually—to help us celebrate our mom’s life. We’d like to thank everyone who travelled from out of state to be here today, including those on our dad’s side of the family who traveled from as far away as California. Let that sink in for a second—there are people here today who flew from warm, sunny California. To Chicago. In February. To attend the funeral of an in-law, essentially. Now, I know they came in part to support our dad in his time of grief, but I think it really speaks to the impact our mom had on people. And that’s been evident as well in the flood of messages we’ve received since Mom passed, which have come not just from close friends and family, as you’d expect, but from those who worked with her briefly decades ago, those who met her only recently—including members of the Breakers community in Edgewater, where our parents have lived the past couple of years—from friends (and friends of friends) of my sisters and mine who may have met her only once at one of our weddings years ago. So many have reached out with a kind note, a memory, a heartfelt message about how our mom affected them. As everyone here can attest, to meet Mom was to know instantly what a beautiful person she was, inside and out; a kind, caring soul; sharp, funny, and fun to be around; someone who brightened the lives of all those around her. I heard it said recently that grief is simply unexpressed love. The moral, I think, is that grief isn’t something we should avoid or try to overcome, but something we should embrace. If grief really is just a reflection of the love we feel for the person we lost, then we should hope to always feel some measure of grief for our departed loved ones. I like that sentiment; I think there’s some wisdom there, and perhaps some solace for those of us who are grieving our mom’s loss so deeply still. But it got me thinking about that notion of "unexpressed love." Unexpressed love: that was a foreign concept to Mom. Like our dad, she never missed an opportunity to tell my sisters and I how much she loved us, how proud she was of us, how happy we made her, how lucky she was to be our mom. And we always reciprocated—in person, on the phone, over text (including, in recent years, through liberal use of heart emojis in any text with Mom). Now, I don’t know whether that has lessened our grief any, but I do know that I speak for my sisters, our dad, our Aunt Mary Kay, and everyone who was on the other end of those exchanges with Mom, when I say that we are incredibly grateful for each of those moments, each of those expressions of love that my mom would simply not let go unexpressed. It was in that spirit that I set out some time ago to put down in writing exactly what my mom meant to me—an impossible task, to be sure. I regret deeply that I didn’t finish it before she passed, but I’m grateful I can share it here today with her and with all of you. I initially intended for it to be a poem, as that’s the language that she loved best, but I’m afraid I didn’t inherit her poetic voice (or talents). So I ended up with something else, I’m not sure what exactly. But I call it, “My Mother’s Son.” My Mother’s Son I knew it was coming, every time I would visit Mom at work—usually to ask for money for the movies or to pick up the car to meet friends or for some other equally important reason—never just to say hi, or ask about her day, or tell her how much I loved her. (There would always be time for that later, right?) “You must be Julie’s son!” It was probably my nose or the shape of my face; perhaps the hazel eyes or brown, curly hair. At first, I was annoyed. I didn’t want to resemble a short, middle-aged woman—beautiful though she was—and rued the fact that I didn’t inherit a chiseled jawline or muscular physique instead. So I usually just smiled sheepishly. But beyond an amusement at the resemblance, there was something else evident in their tone. “You must be Julie’s son!” The front desk staff, her fellow nurses, the doctors and residents, the custodial workers—they always made sure to tell me how much they loved working with Mom—how kind and skilled she was with patients, how supportive and generous she was with colleagues. They were quick with an anecdote or an expression of admiration. Eventually, I came to embrace the comparisons—proudly wrapping my arm around her (and sometimes giving her a playful pat on top of her head, which by then came up only to my chest) whenever a new friend, colleague, or stranger remarked on the resemblance. In her later years, as her health declined and the Parkinson’s loomed like a storm cloud growing nearer and more ominous by the day, I would reflect often on the connection I shared with my mom, on what it meant to be her son. Apart from any physical traits she may have passed down, I knew she would be leaving for her children and grandchildren something truly precious and rare. Something that couldn’t be simply inherited, but would need to be earned—brought to fruition through the countless small acts and daily decisions that make up a person’s life. Now that she has passed, and I think about the man I strive to be for my own family—for my wife, Sarah, and our daughter, Tessa, who will grow up without having truly known her Ama—I find in my mom’s legacy a clarion call, a beacon guiding my way, a pledge I must continually renew: I will be kind to friends and strangers alike—especially the less fortunate, the marginalized, and the forgotten among us. I will be generous with my time, energy, and resources, and will commit to causes greater than myself. I will laugh, loud and often. My patience will know no bounds. I will smile constantly and exude warmth so that others are uplifted even when I’m down. I will be selfless and unfailingly loyal. I will not swoon at the sight of blood, but will swoon over a mariachi band (or really any live music). I will create. I will nurture. I will dance with enthusiasm. I will be open to all things, and constantly seek out new adventures, foods, cultures, and people. I will find happiness in the simple things, and peace in nature. When my health fails me or curveballs inevitably come my way, I will put on a brave face to spare my loved ones their worry, and will fight with a strength and tenacity that will make them proud. I will laugh some more, through everything. I will be grateful for all that I have been given. I will love, and be loved, and the world will be a richer, better place for my having been here. I will, I pray, truly and forever be my mother’s son.

Richard "Dick" Floyd Messalle's memorial speech

Written and read by Renee Messalle In this memorial speech, there are plenty references to memories, passions, hobbies, and delights that Richard took part in during his time. These references help paint a loving and broad picture of what Richard's life was like and the kind of person he was. In addition to the personal stories shared, Renee also includes a beautiful poem at the start which kicks off the metaphor of the Train of Life for the rest of the memorial speech. To learn more about Richard's life, visit his memorial website .

Welcome everyone. Thank you so much for coming today. Carl and I wanted to share a few memories about our Dad before the service started. I wanted to start off by reading this lovely poem that I saw recently. Train of Life At birth, we boarded the train of life and met our parents, and we believed that they would always travel by our side. However, at some station, our parents would step down from the train, leaving us on life's journey alone. As time goes by, some significant people will board the train: siblings, other children, friends, and even the love of our life. Many will step down and leave a permanent vacuum. Others will go so unnoticed that we won't realize that they vacated their seats! This train ride has been a mixture of joy, sorrow, fantasy, expectations, hellos, goodbyes, and farewells. A successful journey consists of having a good relationship with all passengers, requiring that we give the best of ourselves. The mystery that prevails is that we do not know at which station we ourselves will step down. Thus, we must try to travel along the track of life in the best possible way -- loving, forgiving, giving, and sharing. When the time comes for us to step down and leave our seat empty -- we should leave behind beautiful memories for those who continue to travel on the train of life. And let’s remember to thank our God for giving us life to participate in this wonderful train ride. I am so glad that I was on my Dad’s train for 51 years. And thanks to those that joined the train at one time or another. His stop and his step down was so very unexpected for us – but he left so many great memories, and we are so grateful he stepped off on a high note! We have all loved hearing what others thought of my Dad – and am so happy that it was what we knew of him. The prevailing theme – he was such a kind and gentle and smart person. And several people said he was a “Renaissance Man”. And I totally agree – he loved to learn and knew a lot about everything. He was so happy in his recent move to Greenspring where he had a big office surrounded by at least 1,000 of his books, all in one room. And most importantly my Dad loved math and data. He had a bachelor and master’s degree in Math. He worked for the Navy using his math skills. And in going through things in his office – we saw that my Dad doodled math everywhere. And he did at least a sudoku a day. I have great memories of him helping us as kids with homework, which he enthusiastically did, and especially of course with math. My high school friends even fondly remember his tutoring us in math. After retirement, he even spent many years tutoring various students – even his grandsons. Just recently he helped Brandon and me with some math homework and sent us detailed descriptions and steps to help us. And he was still the volunteer Treasurer for the Four Corners neighborhood association, which he had been doing for many years. After grad school with his advanced degree in Mathematics, he met my Mom on their first day of work at US Navy, David Taylor Model Basin as they were both trying to find the math lab! My Mom worked there until I was born. And then, when I was looking for a summer job in college, I decided to apply where my Dad worked. This turned out to be the start of my government career as well, and I eventually worked in the same Directorate with my Dad for the summers and then for 7 years after college. It was a great chance for us to know and see each other in different ways, learn what my Dad did at work, have similar co-workers, etc. After my Dad retired, he had so much fun taking liberal art classes at the community college. He also loved going to see plays with my Mom, so they both ushered at various local theaters for over 30 years. And he even directed and acted in some community theater plays. Despite my Dad’s quiet demeanor – he definitely had had a wild and adventurous side …. He loved rollercoasters. Even as recent as about 5- 10 years ago, he was still going on roller coasters and rides at Disney and Universal with my husband and niece and Brandon, and even on the water slides at the water parks. When we were younger, he took us on a hot air balloon ride. He loved to bike – biked to work, biked with friends, biked long distance rides of 100 miles, and biked as a family. He did Hang gliding for a while – and even bought one. I remember playing in fields while my Dad would hang glide off of small hills. He even bought a Unicycle. He also loved science fiction, and he introduced us to Star Wars as kids. And I was able to take my parents to the new Disney Star Wars theme park in February, right before Covid. And I just took him to the movie theater at Thanksgiving to see the new Dune movie, which he loved. My Dad was always around and involved when we were younger. We always had family dinners, he made breakfast every Sunday (where I was introduced to and then loved scrapple), he washed the dishes every night for my Mom, and was always willing and around to assist us with our school and homework. And then he continued to be present and involved in my life as a grandfather to Brandon, especially since we lived somewhat close by. He set such a great example for me of what a father and what a spouse should be. And I am so happy that he met the love of his life, and that he and my Mom had such a wonderful marriage of 53 years – best friends - truly soul mates. In summary, my Dad had a fun life on that train for 79 years, sharing 55 of those years (70% of his life) with my Mom! He left many great memories for me and for others. Thanks Dad – I love you and you will be missed.

Following you will find some eulogy examples, with most of them being short eulogy examples. Shorter eulogies can become longer simply by adding in stories and memories that you hold dear or different aspects of your loved one’s life you’d like to share.

Thank you all for being here today. I’m honored to share this time with [Name]’s friends, family, and others in remembering [his/her] life.

I met [Name] [number] years ago at [description of meeting location]. I immediately liked [Name]’s [sense of humor / personality / presence] and knew we would make fast friends. Once, when we were [description of memory], [Name] turned to me and said “[Quote]”.

[Longer description of memory]

After we met, I [description of life after meeting person] and [he/she] went on to [description of what they did]. When [Name] met [spouse], everything changed. [He/she] became [description] and was one of the best [husbands/wives/fathers/mothers] a family could ask for.

I know I’ll always miss my best friend and that no one can replace [him/her]. With that, I’d like to leave you all with one of [Name]’s favorite quotes, by [author]: “[quote]”. Thank you.

[Name] was my best friend, confidante, partner in crime, and one of the best people I’ve ever had the honor to know. I first met [Name] in [location] and we quickly became fast friends. We shared a love of [hobby] and a desire to [description], something that very few others connected with me on.

[Name] taught me a lot about [description], something I will never take for granted. Our other friends refer to [Name] and describe [him/her] as [description]. What I know for certain is that anyone who knew [Name], knew how [brave/special/funny/kind/unique] they were. You don’t meet someone like that every day.

One of my most cherished memories with [Name] was the time we [description]. If not that, then it’s definitely the time we [description].

I want to thank you all for gathering today in honor of [Name], I know it would’ve meant the world to [him/her]. Let’s honor [his/her] memory by continuing to spread love in this world and to try our best each and every day. Thank you.

For those who don't know me, [Name] and I have been friends for practically our entire lives. We grow up in [town] together, lived down the street from one another, and went to the same schools from elementary to high school. We planned on going to the same college together (but [Name] was smarter than I and got into some schools I didn't). We weren't just friends, we were [brothers/sisters].

When I was younger, [Name] used to take me to [area]. We'd play [game] and sit out in the field, talking about [subject] for hours on end. [Name] was there for my life's most important events. [He/she] was there for [list out important life events] and always remembered my birthday and other important anniversaries. [He/she] was beyond thoughtful -- [he/she] was one of the kindest and most compassionate people I've ever met and will ever meet.

Losing [Name] is akin to losing a family member. [He/she] is irreplaceable and their loss is felt deeply, more than words can ever describe. At the same time, I know [Name] would hate it if they saw me up here crying, talking only about their loss and ignoring all the wonderful things [he/she] did with their precious time here on Earth. So, I'd like to take this time, to thank [Name] for everything [he/she] taught me: [list out lessons or important takeaways]

Let's honor [Name's] memory today (and all days) by being kind to one another and remembering the struggles that we all have to face during our time here.

Joie and I met before we were born -- our mothers were in the same prenatal group and bonded over their hatred of the lack of sushi in their lives. We were born only a few days apart, spent our first years of life held by each other's moms and had almost no chance in not becoming great friends. Little did our moms know -- they'd given us more than friendship when they became friends. They'd made us family -- sisters.

Both of our families had decided to only have one child, so Joie and I filled the void that every only-child experiences. She was my sister, through and through. I was there for every one of her life's major accomplishments (and letdowns). She returned the favor in kind. Joie was my support through my first relationship, my first heartbreak, my first degree, my first marriage (and second!) and my first child. I was there for so many of her firsts, seconds, and thirds in life. That's the kind of person Joie was. Supportive. Constant. Foundational. She was my rock and the rock for so many people around her.

Even in death, Joie knew we'd be lost without her support. Her husband, Robbie, is constantly finding small notes that Joie left behind, just little reminders that she still cares for him and is supporting him, despite this complication we call existence. Two days after Joie was diagnosed with cancer, she gave me a call. She told me to sit down and to get ready for the "shit to hit the fan". I thought it was just another rant about her job or some stupid thing she saw at the store or a 30 minute monologue on the downfall of American reality TV.

When she told me she had cancer, I nearly passed out. But she explained to me that now, more than ever, she needed me to be the strong one. Not just for her, but for her husband, for her family, and for myself. She told me not to embarass her in this eulogy, so I'll restrain myself from doing that by going over the top. Please just know, if you're here today, you meant something to Joie. If you're here today, you matter and are important. If you're here today, please honor Joie's memory by being the rock for someone else in your life.

Joie, I love you so, so much. I can't wait to see you again.

Thank you all for being here today. I’m honored to share this time with our friends, family and community and join in remembering [Name]'s life and ongoing legacy.

I met [Name] at [location] around [number] years ago and instantly knew we'd become lifelong friends.

We spent all our time during that summer [description of activities] and the following years were spent periodically visiting [location] and inviting friends out for our annual [description of trip].

[Name] was the kind of person who you never forget. [He/she] was [describe personality]. [He/she] instantly made people feel like [description]. [He/she] was endlessly [selfless, loving, caring, etc.].

I know this loss is one that runs deep for many of us gathered here today, but I also know that [Name] wouldn't want us to sit around mourning [his/her] loss and instead would want us to look towards the future and think on what we can do to make this world a better place.

In [his/her] memory, let's try our best.

For those who don't know me, [Name] was my childhood best friend. We met when we were [age] and instantly connected. We bonded over [subjects], we spent summers at [location] and I could almost always be found at [his/her] house on the weekends. I spent so much time at [Name]'s house that I was known as [his/her] [brother/sister], even by [his/her] parents own admission.

A lifelong friendship is incredibly hard to find and even harder to live without once you've experienced it. To say that this loss is hard is an understatement. [Name] was one of the [describe personality] people I've ever met. [He/she] was unique. [He/she] was hilarious. [He/she] was irreplaceable.

For all those that are gathered with me today, I ask that you join me in honoring [Name]'s life by practicing the values they held so dear. Be kind, be loving, enjoy life, and live life slowly.

Before I get started, I wanted to thank each and every one of you for showing up to honor and remember the incredible life of [Name]. If you knew [Name] (which, if you didn't, why are you here?), you know how magnetic they truly were. Standing up here with only a few minutes to speak on how amazing they were and what they meant to me feels impossible. How can I describe [Name] in a way that's accurate? How can I sum up the impact they had on me, on those around them, on the field of [career field], on the world? It's a near impossible task, so I decided to list out the top 10 things I appreciated most about [Name]. I plan on integrating these top 10 things into the way I treat others as a way of honoring their memory.

Things I learned from [Name]:

Thank you for joining me and listening to me today. I hope you take some of these values and ways of being with you.

Memories of [Name]

Instead of a standard eulogy, I wanted to use this time to share some of my most cherished memories of [Name]. These are ones I've picked out intentionally as I feel they best represent the type of person [Name] was, at least to me. While not all of these memories are ""positive"", they are the ones that have stuck with me the most.

[List memories]

We are gathered here today to celebrate the life of a remarkable young man, who was taken from us far too soon. [Name] was a 25-year-old Marine, who loved hunting, woodworking, and theater. He had a stoic, but kind personality that drew people to him, and he had a deep passion for nature, exploration, and family.

[Name] was a skilled hunter, who spent many hours in the woods, quietly observing the world around him. He had a deep respect for nature and all of its creatures, and he loved nothing more than being out in the wilderness, breathing in the fresh air, and feeling the sun on his face.

In addition to his love for hunting, [Name] was also a talented woodworker, who enjoyed creating beautiful objects out of wood. He had an eye for detail and a steady hand, and his creations were always stunningly beautiful.

But perhaps most of all, [Name] loved theater. He was a gifted actor, who had a way of bringing his characters to life, and he had a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling. He loved nothing more than being on stage, basking in the spotlight, and entertaining his audience.

Throughout all of his endeavors, [Name] was guided by his dedication to his family. He was a loyal son, a devoted brother, and a loving friend, who always put the needs of others before his own. He had a heart of gold, and he never hesitated to lend a helping hand or a listening ear to those in need.

[Name] was a remarkable young man, who touched the lives of all those who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those he loved. Rest in peace, [Name]. You will always be remembered.

First, I want to thank everyone here for showing up today. It means a lot.

Losing my dad is one of the most difficult hardships I’ve ever had to go through. That being said, this process has made me realize just how lucky I was to have a father like [Name]. Without his example, encouragement, advice, and love, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. I am eternally grateful for his life as an example for how I should live my own.

My dad was difficult to sum up in a few words, but some that come to mind are: [hardworking/gentle/loving/caring/strong/hilarious/funny/serious/crafty/intelligent]. When I was younger, we’d spend time [description of memory]. That’s where I first learned to [description of skill].

I remember once when I was younger, we [description of memory].

Dad, you will never be forgotten. Our family is eternally lucky to have had you as the head of our family. We will honor your memory by [way you’re going to honor memory].

Thank you all for coming today.

Growing up, my father was always [description of attitude / personality]. My friends would always say that he was [description of friends’ thoughts]. His coworkers would describe him as [description]. But to me, he was just my dad.

One of my favorite memories with him is when we [memory description].

Another time, we went to [memory description].

Those are the times that I keep in mind whenever I think of my dad, some of the best times of my life. It’s impossible to describe the amount of love I hold in my heart for my father, so I’ll leave it to someone else to describe for me. In the words of [author name], “[Quote]”.

Hello, everyone. Before I get started, I just wanted to acknowledge everyone's presence today. It means so much to me and to my family that you decided to be here with us today to remember my father's life. I know he's smiling on us from above and is absolutely thrilled that so many of you showed up today to remember him.

My dad is impossible to sum up -- we'd be here all day if I had the opportunity to share with you all all the wonderful things he did, taught, and accomplished in his life. To spare you all from that (and to shield you from watching me cry for a few hours) I've decided to restrict this to a short list of some of my favorite qualities of my dad. Without further ado, here's the things that made my dad the man he was:

  • My dad taught me and my brothers the meaning of what is was to be a man.
  • He was compassionate and kind, funny yet stoic, bubbly yet reserved, and quietly bonded our family together through difficult storms and joyful moments.
  • He was the BEST on the grill and 5 year winner of the Best Chili award at our annual chili cookoff.
  • He hated the Patriots, with a passion.
  • He'd sneak out in the middle of the night when we were younger to take us to midnight premiers of our favorite movies -- much to Mom's dismay.
  • He once drove over 500 miles to help me move out from an ex's apartment -- again, in the middle of the night.
  • He was known by my entire group of friends as "The Cool Dad".
  • Even during his last months, he was ensuring me and my brothers knew what to expect, knew what was coming, and what our responsibilities to each other were.
  • His family was the most important thing in his life.
  • My mom was the love of his life and never failed to put a twinkle in his eye.

My dad is the reason I am the person I am today. He was endlessly encouraging, loving, caring, and intelligent. To lose him is to lose a piece of who I am, though I know he's with me in spirit. Thank you once again for showing up to support our family and remember this great man.

[Author] once said, "[Inspirational quote]". Little did he know, this quote would go on to be the foundation of my father's life.

While most knew my dad as a [descriptor] person, those closest to him knew him for his [kindness, bravery, love, caring, tenderness, softness, etc]. A man of few words and many talents, my father spent much of his life in [work / career description] and caring for [his children/family/wife/etc.]. His greatest love in life was [Name] and his favorite pasttime was [pasttime]. Not a day goes by that I don't think of him and not a day goes by that I'm certain the world is worse off without him in it. Losing my dad has taught me two things: [list lessons]

Thank you all for joining me, please tell your parents how much they mean to you and please do kindness, wherever you can.

My father was not an easy man. He was someone who hated the idea of small talk, celebrated people who worked hard (but knew when to take a break), and would be more than happy if no one talked to him for months, leaving him to read through his favorite detective novels.

His life could also not be described as easy. My father grew up poor, he lost his own father at the young age of 8 and had a mother who could be described as absent (at best). His youth was spent attempting to make ends meet through illegal jobs he held while attending school. He ended up dropping out of highschool in order to pursue a job as a dishwasher and support himself.

It was at this point that he met my mother, who seemed to be one of the only people on the planet who could charm my dad. He described her as "The first sense of relief I felt on this earth." and would refer to her as the love of his life for the rest of his life. He did his best to shield me and my brothers from the harsh upbringing he endured. He pushed us to attend college, he pushed us to stay in school, and he pushed us to cherish those in our family -- something he never had.

He worked hard to get to where he was and without a doubt, could be described as a successful man. My father was resilient, generous, and reserved. Though he was a man of few words, he made sure that my brother and I knew we were important, were loved, and were cherished.

I love you Dad and I hope you rest easy. You did a wonderful job.

Lessons from [Name]

Instead of delivering a 20 minute eulogy on my father, that I know he would've hated, I've instead decided to share some of the lessons he taught that could go on to help others. These are lessons that have helped me navigate this life and are lessons I'll cling to now that he's gone. If they resonate with you, please feel free to take them for your own. I love you, Dad.

[List lessons]

My father laid the foundation for my life as a man. He took the lessons his father taught him (rather harshly), picked them up, brushed them off, and buffed them, turning them into the lessons he shared with me (much less harshly than his father did). He was patient. He was kind. He was handy. He was incredibly intelligent and well-spoken, yet preferred to let others speak. If there was a party, you'd often find him on the balcony, in the backyard, or in a corner somewhere, people watching and smiling kindly at anyone who wandered near him. He preferred learning above all else and would most often be seen in his study, with ten different books at varying stages of being read. I owe my father everything and I credit my success in life to the way he raised me, each and every day. To lose him, means to lose a piece of myself. Dad, I love you.

To say my dad meant the world to me is an understatement. A man of few words, and even fewer faults -- he was the stoic figure in my life, the foundation that stayed true no matter what was thrown at him, and the reason I became the woman I am today. I learned to let things go, to love people who loved me back, to befriend those without, and to stay close to those who mattered. My dad meant everything to me, and more. Rest in peace, Dad.

We all dream of having a mother who is kind, loving, and genuine. [Name] was exactly that type of mother. She guided us through years and years and years of hardship, difficulty, joy, and achievement. Our mother was the foundation of our family and without her, it’s difficult to know what to do or what comes next.

I’ll miss her [laugh/smile/generosity/humor/jokes/other descriptor], but am lost without her [guidance/thoughts/advice/other descriptor]. I know we’ll all miss her [insert personality trait or something she was known for].

One of my absolute favorite moments was when my mom [description of memory].

Another one of our family's favorite memories with [Name] was when she [description of memory].

Thank you all for showing up today to honor my mother’s memory and legacy. I know it would’ve warmed her heart to see you all here and I appreciate it greatly. In the words of my mother, “[quote]”

It is an impossible feat to sum up the importance that one’s mother has in one’s life, so I’d like to instead, share some of my favorite memories that I had with my mother. Before I start, let me give you a breakdown of the type of woman my mom was. [Name] was [hardworking/intelligent/ferocious/hilarious/kind/gentle/etc.]. She was always [description] and she never [description]. Her top three favorite things were: [name three things]. One of my favorite memories with my mom was the time we [description]. This is followed closely by the time we [description]. Her [smile/laugh/voice] would light up a room and bring joy to those around her. Her presence was deeply felt and her loss is almost too much to bear. So thank you to everyone who decided to come here today, it means the world to me. One of my mom’s favorite quotes is from [name of author]. It reads, “[quote]”. I’d like to leave you with that today as we celebrate my mother. Thank you.

Thank you for joining me today as I navigate the impossible task of summing up the life of someone incredible, in only a few minutes.

I guess I'll start by sharing one of my favorite moments with [Name]. I was [age] and had just [descriptor]. My mom took me to [location], one of my favorite spots. We had just gone to [location] the previous year, so this was a nice change. We spent the day [descriptor], working on [descriptor] and eating [food]. At night, we [description] and met with [people you met with].

Nights like this weren't uncommon with Mom -- she constantly made sure we had the most fun possible whenever we could. Her free time was spent supporting us, cheerleading for us, driving us to various activities, picking us up, hosting sleepovers, paying for our (many) mistakes, and being known to all as "the best Mom". My friends have all insisted I was blessed with her as my mom, and I know this to be true.

Today, I want us to join together to remember that. To remember the kind of woman she was and the kind of person she taught me and everyone who knew her to be. A woman of joy, light, kindness and warmth. A woman of love and positivity and a ray of sunshine that will be so desperately missed from this world. Mom -- I love you.

To my mother,

I miss you so much. You were the glue that held our family together. You were always there for me when I needed you. I am so grateful to have had you in my life.

You were an amazing woman and an even better mother. I will never forget all the things you taught me. I will never forget your unconditional love and support.

I know you are in a better place now, but I still wish you were here with us. I know that we will see each other again one day, but until then, I will cherish all of our memories together.

I love you, mom.

My mother was the most incredible woman I have ever known. She always supported me in everything that I did, and she was my biggest cheerleader. I know that she is up there looking down on me now, watching over me and guiding me as I navigate through life without her by my side.

Although my mother is no longer with us in this life, I know that she lives on in the memories that I have of her, and the love and support that she gave me throughout my life. She was strong, kind, and warmhearted, and I will always treasure the time we spent together.

I know that it is difficult to lose someone so important to you, but my mother's memory will live on forever in my heart. In her honor, I plan to spend the rest of my days living a life full of kindness and compassion, just as she did. She will never be forgotten.

I am so grateful to have had such an amazing mom, and I know that I will never be able to forget all of the wonderful things she taught me throughout my life. We will cherish all of the amazing memories we have of her until we meet again someday.

Hello all. Before I get started, I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has decided to join us today (and even those who reached out and mentioned they couldn't make it). We're gathered in this beautiful location to celebrate my mom's life. For all of those who decided to travel long distances, who reached out to us during our time of need, and who took the time to help us get this set up -- you have no idea how much this has meant to our family.

What's been most clear to me during this difficult time is simply the staggering amount of people my mom influenced, cared for, and loved. So many folks, even those she hasn't seen in over a decade, have written in and let us know the impact she had on their lives. To say she made you feel loved, seen, and appreciated at all times was an understatement. She was the pillar of our family, a pillar of her community, and would take each and every opportunity available to her to make those around her feel supported and seen.

This has been one of the hardest times our family has gone through and I'm so warmed to know all these bright and smiling faces here today. Thanks for coming to honor my mom.

To lose a mother is to lose a piece of your soul. My mother was no exception. Some would say our relationship was too close and my father used to warn me against "relying" on her too much, since he was trying to protect me from this exact day. My mom was the center of my life and without her, I feel lost. I'm angry, I'm confused, and I miss her so, so, very much. I want to ask each and everyone one of you visiting today, who took the time out of your busy schedules to show your support to my family -- please huge your parents. Please resolve any unresolved issues you currently have, if you love them -- none of it matters. Once you don't have the opportunity to make amends, it feels like everything was so silly. Mom, I miss you, I love you, and I'm lost without you.

Friends and family, today we gather to remember and honor the remarkable life of a woman who truly made a difference in this world. She was a devoted mother, a compassionate humanitarian, and an inspiration to all who knew her.

As we heard from her obituary, this incredible woman faced immense tragedy at a young age, losing her husband in a tragic accident. But instead of giving up, she channeled her grief into a powerful force for good. She joined the Peace Corps, dedicating her life to helping those in need in underdeveloped countries around the world. Her commitment to service was unwavering, and she spent years traveling the world, spreading love and kindness wherever she went.

But she was not only a humanitarian. She was a devoted mother to her son, who was her greatest joy in life. She instilled in him the values of kindness and compassion, and he is a testament to her incredible parenting.

Though we mourn her loss, we can take comfort in knowing that her legacy lives on. She touched so many lives with her kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to making the world a better place. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will always be a source of inspiration for us all. Rest in peace, dear friend.

Today, we gather to honor the life and legacy of Chef Kimmino, a beloved chef who has left us too soon. Chef Kimmino was a true culinary artist, whose passion and creativity inspired all who had the pleasure of experiencing their dishes.

Sadly, Chef Kimmino's battle with breast cancer came to an end at the age of 45. But let us not mourn their passing. Instead, let us celebrate the life they lived and the joy they brought to countless individuals through their delicious and unforgettable meals.

Chef Kimmino was a true master of their craft, always experimenting with new flavors and techniques to create dishes that were both innovative and mouth-watering. Their culinary creations were a reflection of their adventurous spirit, and they were never afraid to push the boundaries of traditional cooking.

But Chef Kimmino's impact went beyond their culinary talents. They were a mentor and inspiration to many aspiring chefs, always encouraging them to pursue their passion and follow their dreams. They were also a philanthropist, using their talents to give back to the community by donating their time and resources to various charities and organizations.

Chef Kimmino's passing is a great loss to the culinary world and to all who knew and loved them. But we can take comfort in knowing that their legacy will live on through the countless lives they touched with their passion and generosity.

So let us honor Chef Kimmino's memory by continuing to share their love of food and cooking with others. Let us keep their spirit alive by embracing their adventurous approach to life and always striving for excellence in all that we do.

Rest in peace, Chef Kimmino. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

We’ve all heard the heartwarming stories many have about just how great their [grandmother/grandfather] was, but I’m here to tell you today that mine was the best. Our [grandma/grandpa], [Name] was such a classic [grandma/grandpa] that it’s almost too difficult to believe. [She/He] was the best at [baking/cooking/fixing things/trips/parties/crafts/giving advice/etc]. [She/He] made the most amazing [food/hobby]. [She/He] also was a part of many clubs, including [list of clubs]. Loved by everyone around [him/her], [name] was the star of the show from the very beginning. When [she/he] was young, [she/he] participated in [activity]. As [she/he] grew older, [she/he] became a fan of [description of hobby/interest]. As [her/his] grandchildren, we were lucky enough to spend time with [him/her] doing [description of time spent]. Now that [she’s/he’s] gone, a hole is left in our hearts and in our souls, but we know we will see [her/him] again soon. One of [name]’s favorite passages was, “[passage]”. I think that sums up who [she/he] was quite well. Thank you all for being here today and I know that [Name] would’ve been in tears just seeing all of you who loved and cared for [her/him] show up for [her/him] today.

My [grandmother/grandfather] was one of those women who [description]. [She’s/He’s] incredibly difficult to sum up in just a few words so I’ll do my best. To start with, my [grandmother/grandfather] was most known for [his/her] [description of something they were known for]. Every single person who came into contact with [her/him] would tell me stories about how [he/she] would [story] and [story].

My favorite memory with [her/him] was the time we went to [description of memory].

I’ll always remember [her/him] as a [loving/caring/kind/gentle/wise/intelligent/hilarious] soul who would try [her/his] best each and every day to put a smile on the faces of others.

For those of you who knew my [grandmother/grandfather], you knew just how special and important [she/he] was to our family. I thank you all for spending time with us here today in honor of [her/him] and the person [she/he] was.

My grandmother was an amazing woman. She was always so kind and loving, and I will never forget all of the wonderful moments we shared together. I am so grateful to have had her in my life, and I know that she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She was a strong and independent woman, who always put others first. She was always there for me when I needed her, and she was such an important part of my life. I know that she is now at peace, and I take comfort in knowing that she will always be with me in spirit.

Those who knew her, knew how much she loved her family, and she was always so proud of us. She was the heart of our family, and we will never be the same without her. We will cherish all of the memories we have of her, and keep her in our hearts always.

Thank you for everything, Grandma. I love you so much.

My grandmother was one of the most influential people in my life and the lives of so many others. Never one to back down from a fight, she spent almost her entire life dedicated to trying to improve our system, to the best of her ability.

Whether this was through community service, time spent volunteering, or simply being a listening ear to those who needed one, her time spent on this planet was time spent caring for others.

I want to honor my grandmother's legacy by continuing in her footsteps and ask all here to do the same. Be kind to each other. Find ways to help those who cannot help themselves. Figure out how to invite joy into your life and how to cultivate it in the lives of those around you.

Grandma, thank you so much for being the bright soul that you so were. I adore you always and forever.

Before I get started, I wanted to say thank you to every single one of you who has shown up today to honor the life of my grandmother, [Name]. Each and every one of you meant something to her and I know that you know that, without a doubt.

Now, to the hard part -- summing up the life of such an accomplished, loving, and special woman. [Name] -- you were one of the most unique and special souls that has ever graced this earth. Everyone who encountered you immediately felt like one of your best friends. You held that special talent of conversing easily with strangers, of making newcomers feel like oldtimers, and of holding space for anyone and everyone that needed it. I have run into so many people that have said to me, "I'm so sorry for your loss, [Name] was one of my best friends." I've heard this phrase so often it's astounded me -- how did [Name] have so many best friends?! It's because she was special and she knew how to make others feel just as special.

To say the loss we've suffered is great is an understatement -- there is no way to describe the hole that is left by her passing. That being said, I aim to honor her life and legacy by attempting to make others feel just as loved, held, and cared for as she made them feel. I invite everyone here, to do just the same. Thank you.

I know my grandmother would be rolling in her grave if she could see me up here giving her even the slightest bit of praise. Always one to tut at any kind of recognition of her good deeds, she'd absolutely hate that we were all gathered here today to do just that. I can say, without a doubt, that my grandmother was the love of my life. She was the first person to make me feel like I had a home and a place in this world. She encouraged me to pursue my passions, no matter what they were. She was the first person I called when I decided to switch majors at college. She was the first person I called when I needed relationship advice, or advice on how to fix my toilet, or instructions on how to change a tire. She was endlessly crafty, knowledgeable, loving, and hilarious. She hated sad movies and loved a good horror film. Her church group referred to her as "The Old Commander" because she was so stringent in getting them to submit their projects on time. It didn't matter if it was for a church potluck or a wedding reception, she kept people in line and kept all of us in her orbit. Grandma, I love you endlessly and have no idea how I'm to navigate this scary world without you by my side. But I know you're out there, somewhere, looking over me. I love you.

Ladies and Gentlemen, friends and family, we gather here today to celebrate the life of a remarkable man, a loving grandfather, and a proud veteran - [Grandfather's Name]. He lived a full and fulfilling life, filled with joy, laughter, and countless precious memories that will be cherished by all who knew him.

[Grandfather's Name] was born in San Francisco and spent his early years exploring the city and all that it had to offer. He was an adventurous spirit, always eager to try new things and see new places. When he was called to serve in World War 2, he answered the call with bravery and honor, defending our country and our way of life. His service to our nation was a testament to his character, and it was a source of great pride for him throughout his life.

When [Grandfather's Name] returned home from the war, he began a new chapter in his life, one filled with family, friends, and all the things he loved. He was blessed with five grandchildren, and he cherished each and every one of them, spending countless hours camping, fishing, and exploring the great outdoors with them. His love of nature was second only to his love of his family, and he always took time to share his knowledge and appreciation of the natural world with those he loved.

[Grandfather's Name] was also a talented artist and woodworker. He spent many hours in his workshop, creating beautiful pieces of art and furniture that will be cherished by his family for generations to come. His passion for creating was matched only by his love of giving, and every year he donned a Santa Claus suit to bring joy to children in his community.

In the end, [Grandfather's Name] passed away peacefully in Florida at the age of 82, surrounded by the love of his family. He left behind a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Today, we say goodbye to a beloved grandfather, a proud veteran, and a true friend. May he rest in peace and may his memory live on in our hearts forever.

Today, we gather to honor and remember the life of Louis Pereira, a Senior Program Manager and passionate writer. Louis had a love for writing, a passion that he was able to pursue in his final years, penning over six short novels that were close to his heart.

Though Louis may be gone, his legacy lives on through his family, particularly his two beloved grandchildren. His kindness, wisdom, and love will continue to guide them throughout their lives.

Louis's dedication to his work and his commitment to his passions serve as an inspiration to all of us. He was a beloved member of the community, known for his compassion and his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

As we say goodbye to Louis, we take comfort in the memories he has left behind and the impact he has had on our lives. May he rest in peace, knowing that his spirit and his legacy will live on through his family and his writing.

You were always determined to be the best – on the field, on the court, in the classroom. You set your sights high and worked hard to achieve your goals.

I am so proud of everything you have accomplished in your short life. You were an amazing son, brother, and friend and you will be deeply missed.

You had a passion for sports and a natural talent for competition. You were always driven to win and I know that you would have gone far in your chosen field, no matter what that ended up being.

I will miss watching you play and excel at what you loved so much. You brought joy to everyone around you and I am grateful to have been a part of your life.

Rest in peace, my son. You will be forever in my heart.

First, let me take this moment to thank each and every one of you who showed up today (and to those who are joining us online). It means so much to our family to have this support system in place after the sudden passing of our beloved son, [Name].

I'm not a person of many words, but at this point in time it feels almost like there aren't enough words in the English language to describe how I feel or the impact my boy had on those he met throughout his short life. From the day he was born, I knew he was something special. It was in the glint of his eyes when he couldn't figure out a problem, in the sound of his laughter as it reverberated through our home, in the shine of his smile whenever he came home from school. He was special. I know every parent feels that way about their kid, but it's true -- [Name] was unique.

Losing him is the hardest thing I've ever dealt with and I know the spot left behind by him is irreplaceable -- I will deal with that for the rest of my days. At the same time, my son was absolutely not the kind of person who would want his friends, his family, and his loved ones to stand by and let grief consume him. He would want his memory to be celebrated and honored through love, laughter, adventure, and a deep appreciation of everything our lives have to offer.

In honor of my son, please hug your children a little tighter today. Please take a few minutes to appreciate what this planet has to offer. And please, most of all, be kind to one another.

I knew from the second I held you in my arms for the first time, how special, unique, and incredible you were going to be. And I was right.

My heart was overflowing with love and joy each and every time I saw your sweet face. Every time you said "Mom!", even if it was said in anger or frustration. I knew how much you loved me, our family, and life itself. Our talks were some of the most special moments of my life -- whether they lasted 2 minutes or were one of our infamous "loving debates" that lasted hours.

Your mind was brilliant, your passion for justice was admirable, and you were everything I wish I could've been at your age. I love you so very much son and to say this loss is unimaginable is simply an understatement.

I will follow your trajectory through life and attempt to celebrate your spirit in everything that I do. You are my sweet boy and I cannot wait until I get to see your sweet face and hold you in my arms once again.

I love you, son.

[Name] was my [youngest/oldest] [brother/sister] and one of the most important people in my life. I know [he/she] would’ve been amazed to see all of you who have come out today in support of [him/her] and us as a family. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Name]. From the very beginning, [Name] and I were inseparable. I loved having [Name] as a [brother/sister] more than anything else in my life. I’ve tried to protect [him/her] as though [she/he] was my own [son/daughter] throughout our lives and it is incredibly painful to be here letting [him/her] go today.

Even though [Name] was taken from us too soon, I know that I will see [him/her] again soon. [He/she] lived a full and happy life, one that touched the lives of so many people. I take comfort in knowing that [his/her] legacy will live on through the lives of others.

I’d like to leave you with one of my favorite quotes that I feel sums up [Name] perfectly: “[quote]”

Thank you all again for coming.

Today we’re gathered in memory of [Name], my [brother/sister] and biggest supporter. I’m [name], [Name] [oldest/youngest/older/younger] [brother/sister]. When we were younger, [Name] & I had a difficult relationship. Lots of fights, screaming, yelling; things that siblings tend to do. As we got older, I started to realize how important [Name] was to me and how much of a supporter [he/she] was to me as an individual.

A couple years ago, we went to [location] for [reason]. We [description of memory]. Another moment that I’ll always remember is the time we went to [description of memory].

[Name] was nothing but [generous/kind/loving/helpful/hilarious/determined/accomplished] and was the pride of our family. [He/she] was my best friend, my partner in crime, and someone I knew I could always rely on. Our family is not the same with their loss, but we will press on and live our best lives as a way of honoring [his/her] memory.

Thank you all for joining me and for allowing [Name] to have a space in your heart and in your life.

Every day, after school, my brother would wait (sometimes over an hour) for me to get out of my last class. He would stand at the bus stop, a huge smile on his face every time he heard the bell ring and saw me running towards him. This tradition continued all the way from when I was around 6 to my very last year of high school.

He was one of the most protective, kind, smart, annoying, hilarious, and goofy individuals I've ever known and will surely, ever meet. Going out of his way to stand at a bus stop just to make sure I had some consistency in my life, a friendly face at the end of the day, and a safe way to get back home was the kind of person he continued to be throughout my life (and throughout the lives of his own family).

Everyone who knew him knew what it meant to him to protect those around him, and that kind of protection was one he enacted until the day he passed away. Without my brother here, I feel a piece of me has shuttered itself away. At the same time, his loss has sparked a desire in me to be better. For him, for his family, for my family, and for myself. His impact on others was incalculable and immeasurable; his life is equally difficult to sum up in just a few words in just a few minutes. I don't doubt I'll be sharing small stories from his life for the rest of my own, but I do want to make sure I make one thing extremely clear.

My brother was the best of us and this world is less bright now that he has passed. Please, keep him in your memory and in your thoughts. Honor his memory by being kind and trying your absolute best. Thank you for coming and for joining my family in remembering my brother.

If I were to say that my sister was the most important person in my life, it might be a bit of a life. (Technically, my mom is the most important person in my life.) I didn't consider my sister as a separate individual -- she was part of me. We were two parts of a whole. Together, we were a full being. Without her, I feel as though half of me is gone.

When we were young, we would stay up until way past our bedtime, whispering down the hallway to each other as we slept in separate beds. We would share our dreams, our fears, our anger, and our joy for a few hours each night. I learned about her dream to be a veterinarian and she celebrated my desire to be a janitor. (We were young!)

Each summer we would go to summer camp together (which we hated), prompted by our parents' need to get some much needed alone time. We were fused at the hip and made almost no friends during summer camps (much to our joy and delight). When we'd get home, our parents would ask if we made new friends and had a great time, we'd lie and make up names for the friends we never made.

When we graduated from college (we both attended [name of college]), she was right behind me on the stage, clasping her degree in [subject] while I held mine in [subject] -- far from our dreams as children.

Throughout our 20's we played around with moving apart and traveling but would ultimately reunite in our hometown every two years or so. When we lost [name], we lived only 20 minutes from each other and would see each other nearly every other day. She was the first person I called when I needed someone to hear me out, someone to listen to me rant, someone to comfort me as I cried, and someone to advocate for me when I wasn't kind to myself.

Losing my sister is the hardest thing I've ever had to go through. I will never feel whole again. At the same time, I know she would want me to remember her in a bright light and know that I carry her with me at all times. I truly aim to do this. In her memory, please give your loved ones a hug today and let them know how much they mean to you.

Many of you attending today know my sister through her immensely successful career as a nurse, some of you know her through her brief stint as a filmographer, and many of you know her because she made a deep impression on you at some point during our childhood. To say she was a lifelong friend to many wouldn't be doing her justice. My sister was the kind of person who somehow found the stragglers, the outcasts, the nerds, the misfits, and the people who didn't feel like they had a community -- and gave them one. She opened up her home to those in need, rented out (and sometimes just lended out) her extra rooms, constantly helped people find jobs, resources, and connections when they were new to the city. She was everything to so many and I'm so blessed to see you all here today. Please try your best to fill your life with generosity and gratitude as a testament to her and her life. Thank you.

Thank you for joining me today in honoring my sister's memory. From a young age, I knew my sister was special. She would pick me up each and every day from school. When I went to college, she was there to drive me to the dorms. When I graduated, she drove me across the country. Without her constant and unrelenting support, I wouldn't have made it through the last 40 years of my life. She showed me how to be a better sister, a better person, and a wonderful mom. I owe everything to her and don't know how to navigate life without her.

My grandson, [Full Name] was an amazing young man. He made his family immensely proud of him every single day he lived. A teacher, an educator, a passionate writer, and a talented artist, his multifaceted personality and talent arsenal impressed everyone he met.

He was a strong and independent man, who always put others before himself. Even when he was younger, he'd be the first of my grandkids to ask how he could help. If I was fixing the car, he'd want to watch. If I was working in the garden, he'd want to help. If the lawn needed to be mowed, he'd be up on a Saturday morning taking care of it. When his grandmother, my wife, had hip surgery, he was the one to run and grab us groceries every week. All of this without complaint and without making us feel as though we were burdens.

I am so proud of the man that he had become and only wish he had the opportunity to live out the rest of his days. A rare and special soul, he will be missed so very much.

Thank you for everything, [first name]. I love you and miss you so much.

To my beautiful granddaughter,

You were the light in my life – always happy, always smiling. You lit up a room every time you entered it and I will miss that light so very much.

I am so proud of the woman you were becoming and I know that you would have accomplished great things in your life. You had such a bright future ahead of you and I am heartbroken that it has been cut so short.

I will cherish all the memories we have together – from your first steps, to your first day of school, to your high school graduation. You were always my pride and joy and I will miss you more than words can say.

Rest in peace, my sweet granddaughter. You will be forever in my heart.

Example # 3

Those of you who know me, know how much my grandson meant to me, our family, and our community. [Name] was a rare individual -- someone that, in today's day and age, is becoming increasingly more rare. He thrived on connecting with others and building up his community in any way he could. Countless hours were spent volunteering with the food bank, the humane society, setting up various cancer walks and runs and trying his hardest to do good in this world and to provide a sense of togetherness with the few precious years he had on this planet. His loss is deeply felt by everyone in our family and of course, many of those who are not (but according to him, would be called family). Please consider honoring [Name]'s memory by volunteering your time in any way that you find meaningful. Maybe that means setting up a walk or run (or any other fun activity) for a charity that you hold dear. Maybe that means picking up trash on the road. Maybe that means spending time in the community garden. In any case, know that any time spent building up the lives of others is time spent remembering and honoring the life of [Name] -- and for that, we are forever grateful.

When I gave birth to [Name], my life was permanently changed. I'd heard how this can happen from friends and family, stories about how having a child changes your life. I'd known this would happen but no amount of warning could've prepared me for how rapidly and totally my world was consumed by my baby. When I held her in my arms for the first time, I knew. I knew my life's purpose. I understood the unspeakable bond that tethers a mother to her child. I was hesitant to release her, to let anyone else but me hold her, even her father. I was obsessed.

With each day, she grew into the bright, confident, and cheerful little girl she ended up being. Every flower was a burst of laughter, interactions with puppies and dogs was a cause for joy, she cried incessantly and wouldn't let me sleep for over 2 months -- but it was so worth it. Seeing her bright, chubby cheeks light up as I turned the corner into her room made it so very worth it.

My daughter was my world and I have no idea how I am to cope with her loss. No parent should undergo the rage and grief that accompanies picking out a casket for your small child. Her life was tragically taken from her and I'll never get to know what kind of person she would've been -- though I have theories. I know she loved every day she got to spend on this earth and I know she felt loved for each and every day.

What I learned from her was to embrace joy, to find a spark of happiness in each and every day, and to cry it out when you have to. [Name], sweet girl, you are so loved and so very missed.

Thank you for joining me and my family today to celebrate, remember, and honor the life of [Full Name]. [Name] was a [man/woman] of [describe characteristics] with a penchant for [description] that always showed itself whenever [he/she] would [description]. A [man/woman] of many talents, [Name] showed us that it was never too late to start [hobby/career].

My [father/mother/sister/brother/relation] was, without a doubt, my best friend, my biggest cheerleader, and my constant supporter. When I was interested in [hobby], [she/he] showed up to all the events. When I decided I was obsessed with [hobby], [he/she] went out and purchased [item]. When I decided to [description], [she/he] was the first person to [description].

My [mom/dad/relation] was an unforgettable and truly remarkable human being. I endeavor, with all my heart, to follow in [his/her] footsteps for the rest of my life. I will honor [his/her] time on Earth and [his/her] contributions to our society by [describe how you'll honor their life]. I ask that everyone here today join me in this endeavour as we aim to honor the life of [full name]. Thank you.

To my wife,

You were my best friend and my partner in life. We shared everything – our hopes, our dreams, our lives. You were the love of my life and I will miss you forever.

We had so many happy years together and I am grateful for every moment we shared. You brought joy to my life and I will cherish our time together always.

I am so proud of the woman you were and I know that you touched the lives of everyone around you. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Rest in peace, my love. You will be forever in my heart.

Choosing a favorite moment from my life spent with my wife is impossible. Was it the time that we went to Lake Minetonka and passed out on the shores after sharing a box full of wine? Was it when she surprised me with tickets to see The Black Crowes in concert, only two months after I'd mentioned it to her? When I'd wake up in the morning to a hot cup of coffee and a brief rant on the political state of the world? The way she mothered our children effortlessly and still took the time to ask me about specific relationships at work? My life has been full of these warm memories -- I can't land on one. What I do know is that my wife emanated love each and every day. Every single day I felt loved, supported, and known. It made me want to make sure she was taken care of in each and every way. I did my best. I tried to give her the life she so deserved, but even if I could give her the life of a queen, it wouldn't have been enough for what she deserved. My wife was everything and is the center of my joy. I miss her each and every day and I know I will see her again.

Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to be married. I was obsessed with any and all films of prince charmings, beautiful and big weddings, and women being swept off their feet. I was convinced that my time would come by the time I was 20 (how naive!). I went through college and by the time I was 32 realized I'd never had a boyfriend. I'd never been courted. I wasn't even sure I liked men. My desire to be swept off my feet dwindled and I became secure in myself.

Until I met [Name].

Immediately, within the first 20 minutes of meeting [Name], I was absolutely smitten. I thought of almost nothing else when we were apart -- and we hated each other! She was competing with me for the same promotion at work and we were both tenacious and fierce women. She was stubborn, confident, and sure of what she wanted -- much like myself.

After she got the promotion I so desperately wanted, she invited me out for a conciliatory drink -- a move I never would've made. She would go on to refer to this as our first date, though I considered it the first brick towards building a bridge away from dislike and towards camaraderie.

I was swept off my feet, in a completely unexpected way. During our first years of dating, I found myself wanting to provide for her, take care of her, make her smile at all possible moments. When she ranted about work, I wanted to defend her. When she managed to burn chicken each and every time, you wouldn't hear a peep from me. When she suggested we get married, I wanted her to be the star of the show. I wanted to show her off to every important person in my life. She'd lovingly refer to me as her ""Princess Charming"" -- a role I happily inhabited.

My wife brought joy, kindness, love, courage, strength, and purpose into my life. Without her by my side, I feel an unhealable void. At the same time, in her way, she prepared me as best she could. I ask those gathered here today, in her memory, to help me keep her presence alive. Please spread joy in all the ways you can. Tell people how you feel. Advocate for yourself. Be free.

My life's greatest years were spent with [Name], the love of my life. She loved everything about life, even the downsides -- she embraced it all. Life was hard, but it was also worth it for her. From the moment I met her, I knw my life would be different and that I'd found the one.

[Name] made such a massive difference in the community around her, especially after becoming president of the charity she worked for. Her favorite things in life were witnessing others transform their lives for the better, helping people access community resources wherever possible, and advocating for those less fortunate. Go out today and try your best to emulate everything she did, and more.

I am so saddened by the loss of [Name]. We didn't always see eye to eye, but I always respected [him/her] as a hard worker and a great person. [She/He] was always so kind and helpful, and I will never forget all of the times [she/he] went out of [him/her] way to help me. [She/He] will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing [him/her].

When we first met at [company], [name] was one of the first people to make me feel welcome. I’ll never forget how [she/he] took the time to get to know me and helped me feel like I belonged there.

I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to work with [him/her], and I know that [she/he] has left a lasting impression on everyone [she/he] met. [She/He] was an amazing person, and I know that [she/he] will be deeply missed. Thank you for everything, [name].

May you rest in peace.

Throughout my career, I've met plenty of personalities, characters, and people -- but none as special as [Name]. When [Name] first entered the front doors to our building, I immediately knew we would get on. [Name] was the type of person you'd easily become friends with. People who met [him/her/them] would immediately want to work alongside them. As one of my first direct reports, I can't tell you how many people would come to me on the side and request to be paired with or on a team with [Name]. Why? [He/she] was special. People gravitated towards them. People wanted to be in their sphere of influence. People wanted to work alongside them and get to know them.

That's rare. This is the first time I've seen the majority of my company in one room that wasn't our building -- and it's for the funeral of our very special friend and colleague -- [Name]. Thank you to [Name's parents] for raising such an incredible human being. Please know that your [son/daughter/child] changed the lives, every day, of so many people around them. I have never in my 50 years of managing imagined running into someone like [Name] and I am blessed to have known them. Rest well and peacefully, [Name], you did well.

Today we come together to honor the life and legacy of a beloved retired musician, who touched so many lives with his passion for music. He was a kind-hearted man who enjoyed pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons. He was an avid traveler, having visited countries all over the world. He also had a strong connection to animals, particularly cats. His home was often filled with cats of all shapes, sizes and colors.

He had a variety of musical influences, which he blended together to create his own unique sound. He was an incredibly talented musician who could play various instruments including the guitar, piano and flute. He wrote some beautiful melodies that will live on long after him.

He was also a generous soul, always ready to lend a helping hand. He had an open door policy and welcomed people into his home with open arms. More than anything else, he loved sharing stories and swapping ideas with those around him.

Today we celebrate the life of this incredible man who left behind a beautiful legacy of music and of kindness. He will be remembered for all that he has accomplished and the many lives that he touched. May we strive to follow in his footsteps and honor his memory by living our own lives with love, humility and caring. Thank you.

These eulogy examples are for those who would like to focus on a loved one's profession or career choices as their way of honoring their life's work.

Eulogy for a speech pathologist

Dear friends, family, and colleagues,

Today, we gather to honor the life and legacy of Sarah Kwambe, a remarkable woman who touched the lives of so many people during her time with us. Sarah was not only a skilled speech pathologist but also a former professional soccer player who had to leave the sport she loved due to a career-ending injury. However, Sarah didn't let that setback stop her from pursuing her passion for helping others.

Sarah's journey began in South Dakota, where she lived with her beloved cat, Sam. She dedicated her life to making a difference in the lives of young people, particularly middle schoolers, whom she worked with as a speech pathologist. She had a remarkable ability to connect with her students and inspire them to achieve their full potential.

Despite the challenges she faced early on in her life, Sarah never gave up on her dreams. She was an accomplished athlete who excelled in soccer, but when her injury put an end to her career, she channeled her passion and determination into her studies. She pursued a degree in speech pathology, and her dedication to her work was evident in everything she did.

Sarah was a compassionate, caring, and selfless person who always put others first. She was a mentor to many, a friend to all, and a source of inspiration to everyone who knew her. She had a warm smile and a kind heart that could light up a room, and her love for her students was evident in the way she interacted with them.

Although Sarah never had children of her own, she had a deep love for her cat, Sam, who was always by her side. Her commitment to her feline friend was just one of the many examples of her kindness and compassion.

In conclusion, Sarah Kwambe was a truly remarkable person who touched the lives of many people in ways that will never be forgotten. Her legacy will live on through the countless students she helped, the colleagues she inspired, and the friends and family who loved her dearly. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Rest in peace, Sarah Kwambe.

Eulogy example for an environmental activist

Dear friends and family,

Today, we gather to remember and celebrate the life of Rachel Chen, a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to protecting and preserving our environment. Rachel was an accomplished environmental scientist, mother of three children - Irina, Bliss, and Mario, and a loving partner to her husband of many years.

From a young age, Rachel had a deep love and appreciation for nature. Her passion for the environment inspired her to pursue a career in environmental science, and she quickly became a respected expert in her field. She spent many years working tirelessly to protect our national parks, and her dedication to this cause never wavered.

Rachel was also an avid gardener, and she had a remarkable ability to bring beauty to everything she touched. Her love for nature was evident in everything she did, from the way she tended to her garden to the way she spoke about the natural world.

As a mother, Rachel was loving, patient, and kind. She instilled in her children a deep respect for the environment and a desire to make the world a better place. Her children were the light of her life, and she was so proud of the people they had become.

Rachel's passing is a great loss to us all. She was a remarkable person who touched the lives of so many people in countless ways. Her legacy will live on through the countless national parks and natural spaces that she helped to protect, as well as through the love and memories that her family and friends will always carry in their hearts.

Rachel, we will miss you dearly, but we know that your spirit will live on through the beauty of nature that you cherished so deeply. Rest in peace.

Eulogy example for a young adult

Today, we come together to celebrate the life of Zach Peterson. Zach was a talented mechanic, a loving son, and a loyal friend. He passed away far too soon, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Zach had a passion for auto maintenance that was unmatched. He loved nothing more than working on cars, and he was always happy to help a friend in need. His skills were truly remarkable, and he had an uncanny ability to diagnose and fix any issue that came his way.

But Zach was more than just a mechanic. He was a gentle soul who cared deeply about those around him. He had a warm smile that could light up a room, and he was always quick with a joke or a kind word. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and included, no matter who they were.

Zach's passing has left a void in our lives, but we take comfort in knowing that his memory will live on. We will remember his kind heart, his infectious laughter, and his unwavering loyalty. Zach was a special person who made a lasting impact on the world around him, and we are all better for having known him. Rest in peace, Zach.

Eulogy for an infant

With heavy hearts, we gather here today to mourn the loss of a precious child who has been taken from us too soon. We know that God has a plan for each and every one of us, but it is still difficult to understand why a young life has been cut short.

As we come together to remember this beautiful child, we take comfort in knowing that they are now in the loving embrace of our Lord. Though their time with us was brief, they brought immense joy and love into the world, and we will cherish the memories we have of them forever.

We know that this is a time of deep sorrow, but we can find solace in the fact that this child is now at peace in the arms of our Heavenly Father. May we all find comfort in our faith, and may we hold this precious child close in our hearts as we navigate this difficult time. Rest in peace, little one.

Eulogy for a grandmother

Today we gather to remember a truly remarkable woman - my grandmother. She was a woman of many talents: a masterful cross-stitcher, an incredible fudge-maker, and a loving grandmother to a whole gaggle of grandchildren.

Grandma was the kind of woman who made you feel like you were the only person in the world when she was talking to you. She always had a smile on her face and a twinkle in her eye, and she had a way of making even the most mundane tasks seem like an adventure.

And oh, her fudge! I think we can all agree that Grandma's fudge was a work of art. It was creamy, decadent, and so rich that you could only eat a tiny piece at a time - not that it stopped any of us from trying to eat the whole batch in one sitting!

But beyond her talents and her love of fudge, Grandma will be remembered most of all for the love she had for her family. She was a guiding light for all of us, a source of wisdom and strength when we needed it most.

So, as we say goodbye to this incredible woman, let us not mourn her passing, but celebrate the incredible life she lived. She was one of a kind, and we were all blessed to have known her. Rest in peace, Grandma - we will never forget you.

Eulogy for a farmer

Today we gather to celebrate the life of a man who loved nothing more than working hard under the sun, watching his land grow and thrive. [Name] was not just any farmer - he was a tireless advocate for agricultural reform and change. His passion for sustainable farming practices, conservation, and education knew no bounds.

He was never afraid to get his hands dirty or put in long hours because he believed that every crop mattered; every seed planted had the potential to make a difference. His dedication inspired those around him and helped shape the landscape of our community.

[Name] will be remembered by all as an honest, kind-hearted man who always put others first. I’ll miss his unwavering determination to better this world through agriculture and his infectious smile that brightened up everyone’s day.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when he taught me how to plant corn by hand while sharing stories about his childhood on the farm.

Another one of our community's favorite memories of [Name] is when he organized a fundraiser for local farmers affected by droughts and natural disasters.

Thank you all for being here today to honor my friend’s memory and legacy. In [name]’s words “Farming is not just a profession but also an art form”. May we carry on this art form in honor of him.

Eulogy for a teacher

We are gathered here today to say goodbye to someone very special: A teacher who dedicated her life towards social justice inside her classrooms, making sure each student felt valued and respected regardless of their background or ethnicity. She empowered students from underserved communities with access to quality education - she showed them they could achieve anything if they worked hard enough.

[name]'s legacy lives on through every student she touched during her career as an educator, instilling confidence in them whilst fighting against systemic oppression within school walls.

I’ll miss her contagious energy, witty humor, and deep compassion for everyone she met.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when she invited me to speak in her class about my personal experiences and background, empowering me to share my story confidently.

Another one of our community's favorite memories of [Name] is when she organized a rally with her students for Black Lives Matter movement that brought people together from all walks of life.

Thank you for being here today, honoring the memory and legacy of someone who dedicated their life towards ensuring social justice inside classrooms. In the words of [name], “Education can change how we view ourselves, other people, and the world”. Let’s carry on this legacy in honor of her.

Eulogy for a foster dad

We gather here today to celebrate the life of a man who was known for his unwavering dedication towards family, golfing and fostering kids - [name]. If there’s one thing that everyone knows about him- it's that he loved nothing more than spending time with those he loved and helping those in need.

[name] had an infectious personality which brought joy to all those around him. He made sure to always put his family first no matter what, while also making time for the sport he was passionate about: Golf.

He would often take foster kids along with him on these trips; providing them a chance at a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

I’ll miss his contagious laughter, generosity, and his commitment to living every day to its fullest potential.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when we went out golfing together by the lake, enjoying each other’s company over some good shots.

Another one of our community's favorite memories of [Name] is when he organized a youth-golf tournament fundraiser raising funds for underprivileged children.

Thank you all for being here today honoring someone who lived their life so fully dedicated towards their passions - Family, Golfing & Fostering Kids. In the words of [name], “Life is like a round of golf; try your best from tee to green but don't forget to enjoy the moments along the way."

Eulogy for a soldier

Today we come together as friends and family members mourning the loss of someone whose bravery knew no bounds- [name]. A soldier who sacrificed everything including her own life during deployment serving her country valiantly.

Her courage has inspired us all and reminded us that freedom sometimes comes at great cost—she gave up everything she had just so others could have something better tomorrow.

She will be remembered not only as a hero but also as a friend whose selflessness touched countless lives on and off-duty alike. Her positivity knew no bounds even in times where things felt like they couldn’t get any worse.

I’ll miss her infectious energy, unbreakable spirit and her ability to inspire people around her even in the darkest of times.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when we went on a vacation together after she returned from deployment, catching up on life post-duty and just enjoying each other’s company.

Another one of our community's favorite memories of [Name] was when she organized a fundraiser for veterans who had been wounded during active duty.

Thank you all for being here today. We celebrate someone whose profound sacrifice has given us the freedom that we enjoy today- Freedom which comes at great cost. In [name]'s words: "Duty first; self second." Let us never forget this sentiment as we honor those brave men and women who serve their country valiantly.

Eulogy for an animal activist

Today marks the passing away of a woman whose compassion for animals was unmatched - [name]. She served as President at local ASPCA chapter where she inspired others through her dedication towards animal rights advocacy and protection. Her tireless efforts led to increased awareness within our community regarding animal welfare issues such as abuse or neglect.

[name] will be remembered not only as an advocate but also as a friend to all animals; big or small. Her kindness knew no bounds and it extended beyond just domesticated pets like dogs or cats- advocating for wildlife preservation too!

I’ll miss her infectious energy, unwavering passion and her ability to inspire empathy in those around her.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when she rescued several abandoned kittens outside our office building during lunch breaks.

Another one of our local communities’ favorite memories with [Name] was when she coordinated fundraisers which helped raise funds for medical treatment costs associated with pet care amongst low-income families.

Thank you all for being here today honoring someone who made it their mission to ensure well-being among some oft-forgotten members in society: animals. May we strive each day to extend kindness towards them, carrying on what [name] started so passionately.

Eulogy for a writer

Thank you so much for attending the services today as we gather to say goodbye to Kaleb Morris, an incredibly talented author and journalist. His work delved into the darkest corners of human behavior, shining a light on the most heinous and unthinkable crimes. Kaleb had a gift for telling stories that not only captivated readers but also helped to shed light on important issues that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.

Tragically, Kaleb's life was cut short in a boating accident, leaving behind his child and former wife, Shareece. Though we grieve for the life that has been taken from us too soon, we can also take comfort in the legacy that Kaleb leaves behind.

His writing was not just a means to entertain, but a way to make a difference in the world. Kaleb shone a light on issues that needed to be addressed, and gave a voice to those who had been silenced by violence and tragedy. He was a gifted storyteller, and his impact on the true crime genre will be felt for years to come.

Kaleb will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his work will live on as a testament to his incredible talent and dedication to his craft. Rest in peace, Kaleb.

Eulogy for a nurse practitioner

We gather to remember and honor Cherish Abrams, a beloved nurse practitioner who touched the lives of countless patients and colleagues during her 25 years of service. Cherish was known for her compassion, dedication, and expertise, and her loss is deeply felt by all who knew her.

Cherish was like a ""grandma"" to the NICU where she worked, comforting and caring for infants and families during their most vulnerable moments. Her gentle touch and kind words provided solace and hope to those in need, and her wisdom and guidance were invaluable to her colleagues.

Cherish's tragic passing is a reminder of how precious life is and how quickly it can be taken away. But even in death, she continues to inspire us with her selflessness, her unwavering dedication to her patients, and her love for her profession.

Cherish's memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her legacy will continue through the lives of the countless patients she cared for and the colleagues she mentored. May she rest in peace, knowing that she made a profound difference in the world and that she will be deeply missed.

Eulogy for a high school teacher

We gather here today to remember and celebrate the life of Samantha Liu, a beloved high school teacher who passed away far too soon. Samantha was a bright, energetic, and dedicated educator who brought out the best in her students and inspired them to reach for their dreams.

In her 15 years of teaching, Samantha touched the lives of countless students, colleagues, and parents. Her passion for education was infectious, and her positive energy was felt by everyone who crossed her path.

Though we mourn the loss of Samantha, we take comfort in the memories she has left behind and the impact she has had on our lives. Her legacy lives on in the countless students whose lives she touched, and in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to know her. Rest in peace, Samantha, knowing that you made a profound difference in the world and that you will be deeply missed.

Eulogy for a philanthropist

Today we gather to honor and remember the life of Michael Patel, a beloved community leader and philanthropist who dedicated his life to making the world a better place. Michael was a self-made businessman, a devoted family man, and a passionate advocate for those in need.

Throughout his life, Michael demonstrated a deep commitment to his community, supporting countless charitable organizations and causes. His generosity knew no bounds, and his impact on the lives of those he helped will never be forgotten.

Michael's passing is a great loss to us all, but his legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched and the causes he supported. We are grateful for the time we had with him and for the inspiration he provided to us all. Rest in peace, Michael, knowing that your life made a profound difference in the world and that you will be deeply missed.

To capture more memories of your loved one, consider creating a memorial website . Memorial websites are excellent tools that help you share event details, post an obituary, collect memories, and raise funds in someone’s name. They’re easy to set up, easy to use and completely free.

Start a memorial website

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Create a memorial website

Help protect your family, get free grief support, 13+ tribute ideas for a father who has died.

Paying tribute to a father who has passed away is a common gesture children and others want to make. You’ll often find tributes in books, art, film, poems, and other media, but these aren’t the only places to pay tribute to someone you’ve lost or to someone important to you. You can also pay tribute

How to Plan a Jewish Unveiling Ceremony

Many religions have different customs and rites that take place after someone passes away. If you’ve never planned and held your own unveiling ceremony, this task can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Additionally, if you’re not part of that religion, you may feel awkward or uncomfortable at

What are Memorial Websites?

If you’re looking for a place to memorialize the life of someone you loved, share their story with others, and/or connect your community around the life of your loved one, a memorial website is a great place to start. What is a memorial website? A memorial website (which can be referred to

Create a space to remember someone

how to write a speech for someone who died

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Eulogy examples to help you write a eulogy for a memorial service

Funeral speech examples from around the world.

By:  Susan Dugdale  | Last modified: 10-05-2023

How do you begin to write a meaningful eulogy?

And how is it possible to say everything you want to about a person's entire life story in a few, very brief, minutes?

Both those questions are natural responses to having a eulogy to write for a funeral service.

Grief, together with the desire to honor your loved-one the best way you can, and the pressure of a tight timeframe, can make it feel like an almost insurmountable challenge. 

That's why reading what others have written in similar circumstances helps a great deal.

What's on this page:

Access to 70+ eulogy examples, the whys and wherefores of the collection: its background, a submission form to use if you want to contribute a eulogy and links to other useful pages on my site.

Quick links

  • I want to browse and read the example eulogies in the order they have been received . (The most recent is at the top of the list.)
  • I want to submit a eulogy I have written .
  • I want to read specific types of eulogies : eulogies for mothers, fathers, an older brother, a dear friend...
  • I want help with the eulogy writing process.

About these eulogy examples

I am fortunate to be able to make available to you a large, and growing, collection of funeral speech examples. 

They've been written by people from all over the world, who are just like you and me. They too have family and friends whom they care for deeply.

how to write a speech for someone who died

Look and you'll find examples of eulogies for mothers, fathers, grandparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins, mentors, colleagues, a close friend..., in short: loved ones.

The people who've written them have shared them to help people like yourself. Because they've been where you are now with a funeral speech to prepare, they know how it feels to be searching for inspiration, trying to find a starting point.

Some of the speeches are short. Some of them are funny. All of them are heartfelt, and they appear in the order I received them.

To see them, jump to  eulogy samples .  

Return to Top

 Help to find specific eulogy examples easily

If you're looking for an example of a eulogy for a particular kind of person, and don't want to browse your way through the chronologically ordered list below, use these links to go straight to a collection of:

  • eulogies for mothers
  • eulogies for  fathers
  • eulogies for  sisters
  • eulogies for  sons
  • eulogies for  grandmothers
  • eulogies for  grandfathers
  • eulogies for  friends
  • eulogies for  colleagues

I've grouped all the speeches I've received through this page according to their type on a new page here: sample eulogies . Whenever a eulogy is submitted, I add its link to the category it belongs to.

Collage of 12 labels: Eulogies for Mothers, Eulogies for Fathers, Eulogies for Sisters, Eulogies for Brothers...

The story behind this collection of eulogies

It began with two funeral speeches  I had written. 

Almost as soon as I put them online, they attracted an enormous number of visitors.

It was then I realized the need for more.  

I also knew my examples would not answer everybody's needs.

The one for my sister was different in approach.

The one for my friend and next-door neighbor was not what a grieving person with a eulogy speech to write for a close family member really wanted to see. 

My two were definitely not enough! 

Image: blue forget-me-not flowers. Text: What do forget-me-not flowers symbolize? Remembrance, enduring love, faithfulness

Offering a wider variety of funeral speeches 

To be really useful there needed to be a wider variety of funeral speeches. We needed eulogies for mothers, fathers, sons, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, colleagues, friends, people who died unexpectedly and suddenly...

And we needed them to reflect the diverse countries and faiths of the people visiting the site.

I decided to ask for more. Lo and behold, they began to arrive through my   eulogy submission form below.

Help to make writing a eulogy easier.

After you've read a few eulogy examples, and you want help to prepare your own speech you'll find it here:  how to write a good eulogy .

Image: bunches of white lily of the valley flowers. Text: How to write a eulogy step by step

The article has step-by-step instructions, examples, a very useful free 15-page printable eulogy planning template to download , as well as comprehensive answers for 13 FAQs about eulogies :

  • how do you start a eulogy ?
  • how do you end a eulogy ?
  • do you read a eulogy or memorize it?
  • how do you stop from crying when you give a eulogy ?

flower-divider

Why do people share a deeply personal speech?

The people sending their eulogies to me to publish fully appreciate that writing a funeral speech under pressure can be a difficult, sad and lonely task - sometimes one of the hardest things they've ever done.

They know from experience having examples to read can lessen that burden. It's a good way of starting to find the right words to tell their own personal stories and share their favorite memories about a person they have loved.

Theirs is a kind and generous act, one that's been repeated over 70 times already. 

Wonderfully, some of the people who've come searching for help to write their own eulogy, have returned to share what they've written.

(Read Craig's comment below his eulogy for his Grandmother, Bertha  or Byrona's below her  eulogy for her Dad  for verification.

Both were helped by funeral speeches they found here and wanted what they had written to assist others in the same way.)

So, if you've written a eulogy...

Would you consider sharing it.

It would help others enormously.

Every day people look for tips on how to a write eulogy or to find  eulogy examples  to read. I know because I see it reflected in my website visitor statistics.

I also know because of the comments people leave under speeches.  They are so very grateful to have found a eulogy expressing how they feel.

For instance, see the comments on Eulogy for my Son , on Eulogy for my Grandmother - Bertha , or Sharon Catley's poem for her Mother,  Journey's End .   

You know how it generally is with a speech of this sort. Typically, there is not much time to prepare, and you want to get it right.

Reading what others have done helps in the best possible way.

These eulogies inspire and give people the courage to do what they need to do.

Despite our differences what we all have in common is the desire to speak about our loved ones the very best way we can. 

The more examples we have, the more likely a person is going to find a speech that resonates and meets their needs.

You too could help by submitting the eulogy you've written. It's very simple to do.

Image background blue forget-me-nots. Text: Thank you for sharing.

When you're ready ...

PS. If you would like to share your eulogy but have privacy concerns around using your loved one's name you could either use a fictional one or write XXXX in its place. Be assured too, that although there is the possibility that people reading your speech might wish to respond, no comment goes live without my permission.

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  • I am at least 16 years of age.
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  • I understand that you will display my submission on your website.

(You can preview and edit on the next page)

Read recently submitted eulogy examples

Click the headline links below to read the eulogies or funeral speeches shared by visitors to this page...

Click here to write your own.

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how to write a speech for someone who died

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A Guide to Writing a Funeral Speech: 8 Heartfelt Examples

By: Author Camila Steinfeld

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories Writing Prompts

A Guide to Writing a Funeral Speech: 8 Heartfelt Examples

With the passing of a loved one comes the responsibility of making arrangements for their funeral. This includes deciding who will be saying a funeral speech at the funeral service.

Saying a funeral speech is not something that should be undertaken unprepared. It requires some forethought and planning.

A funeral is an emotional occasion and delivering a speech, unprepared, in front of the congregation is a recipe for disaster = one that will not soon be forgiven.

The ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ of a Funeral Speech

how to write a speech for someone who died

When you sit down to decide what you’re going to say in your eulogy speech, there are a few factors you need to take into consideration.

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35 Thank You Mom Messages That Every Mom Will Love

In writing your speech , it’s important to demonstrate the personal relationship you shared with the deceased. It’s necessary that you give the congregation an insight into the person’s life as it related to your own.

If you want to relate a situation or event that occurred in the deceased’s life, do so tastefully.

Your aim is not to deliver a stand-up comedy routine, but rather, a poignant and potentially somewhat humorous view of who the deceased was and what they meant to you.

A funeral speech is difficult to deliver if you’re feeling over-emotional. You cannot afford to break down and cry in the moment.  

Eight Carefully Crafted Emails for Your Last Day at Work

That’s not to say that you cannot show your emotions and grief. But you must be able to get through the speech you have prepared.

Finally, don’t use a funeral speech as an opportunity to settle old scores or tell others about unfinished business between yourself and the deceased.

Outline: How to build a funeral speech

how to write a speech for someone who died

20 Messages to Say Thanks for Coming to My Party

Here are some examples of a funeral speech that celebrates the deceased’s life but at the same time expresses the grief of the speaker.

A Eulogy for a Mother

how to write a speech for someone who died

The last thing I imagined myself doing today was delivering the eulogy at my mother’s funeral.

Despite the fact that she was ill, and we knew her passing was inevitable, it has still come as a shock to us as a family.

My mother was a phenomenal woman who possessed reserves of strength and patience that seemed to be infinite.

We, her children, were her pride and joy; she regarded us as the greatest accomplishment of her life. That doesn’t mean that raising us was easy, nor always enjoyable.

My siblings and I gave her a lot of gray hairs along the way. But, regardless of our misdeeds, she would always find it in her heart to forgive us.

And not only that, she would have enough faith in us to believe that we would not transgress again.

One of my fondest memories of my mother is watching her sit down and relax after a long day. She worked hard at her job and came home to run her household. That meant that she had very little time to herself.

And even with the little ‘me time’ she had, she never used it for herself. She’d always be knitting or sewing or making something that we needed.

What our family lacked in money, my mother more than made up for with love.

My mother was the heart of our home, the center of our universe, and the greatest example of unconditional love we could’ve hoped to have.

A Eulogy for a Father

how to write a speech for someone who died

My father was a quiet man. He seldom said much. That’s why, when he did have something to say, we listened.

That may make him sound like he was distant, but nothing could be further from the truth.

He was always interested in what was going on in our lives and was extraordinarily proud of our achievements.

Whether it was scoring a home run in a Little League baseball game or getting a bursary for a university, he delighted in our successes.

As a child, one of the places I felt the safest was in the arms of my father. In fact, right now, that’s the place I wish I was more than anything else.

He was a hardworking man who set a great example for my siblings and me. We learned from him that, regardless of the task, it was not worth doing if you didn’t want to do it properly.

My father had an incredibly dry sense of humor. It took us a while to grasp it because, as children, we didn’t get it.

But as we grew up, we began to understand his wit and laugh at the things he said.  

40 Thank You Dad Messages Every Dad Will Appreciate

He presided over family dinners with a quiet dignity that spoke of a patriarch who took that responsibility seriously.

He was the mediator in our disputes as siblings and always took the high road, refusing to take sides.

He’s left a gap in our lives that we can’t even begin to contemplate filling.

A Funeral Speech for a Best Friend

how to write a speech for someone who died

Jennifer and I met, two gap-toothed first-grader’s, on the first day of school – ever.

Something drew us to each other though. We could never quite figure out what it was, but it’s lasted a lifetime.

As children, we would spend hours with each other without talking that much.

We just understood each other. Even if you put us on either side of a big room full of people, Jennifer and I would always find our way back to each other immediately.

We survived high school together. I’m not sure if either of us would’ve made it without the other. We laughed and cried together so many times.

There were crushes and boyfriends that caused heartache and heartbreak. But, throughout it all, we were always there for each other, no matter what – no matter how many times I needed a shoulder to cry on, Jennifer was there.

We went to different colleges after high school and the careers and lives we pursued after our studies were poles apart. We lived far away from each other and I’ll be honest, we sometimes went for long periods without talking, which I regret.

I’ll be honest, we sometimes went for long periods without talking, which I regret.

But every time we spoke or saw each other though, we picked up where we left off, and it felt like we’d never been apart.

It’s that mutual love and respect that makes me know Jennifer was the best friend I could ever have had.

A Eulogy for a Wife

how to write a speech for someone who died

I don’t know where to begin to tell you about the enormous gaping hole that Samantha’s passing has left in my life.

It feels like half of me has vanished in an instant, and I’m not sure I’ll ever feel whole again.

Samantha was an amazing woman. She had such an infectious zest for life that she could always find the humor or a silver lining of any situation, regardless of the gravity. Anything seemed possible with her attitude.

The way she attacked the obstacles she encountered with such strength and determination was inspirational.

Samantha and I met quite by accident. I walked into her office in error – and there she was: the most beautiful woman I had ever seen. She seemed to radiate some kind of magnetic attraction.  

40+ Other Ways to Say I Love You Dearly

I knew there and then that I would never be able to stay away from her, and that my life would not be complete without her in it. She didn’t make it easy.

I had to ask her out several times before she agreed. But when I look back on the life we’ve shared, it was more than worth it.

Our children were the center of Samantha’s world. She took her role as a mother seriously and did an amazing job of raising them to be the adults they are today.

I wish I’d had more time with her, I really do. But I will treasure the years I had with her in my heart for the rest of my life.

A Funeral Speech for a Husband

how to write a speech for someone who died

The thing that made me fall in love with Stephen was his sense of humor. He always made me laugh, even when all I wanted to do was cry.

Whenever I’d get angry or upset with him – for whatever reason – I’d always wind up laughing because he could always make me see the funny side of it.

As a husband, Stephen was supportive of everything I did.

Like when I decided that the patio needed to be refurbished. He was right by my side working so hard to help me, even though I’m sure the last thing he felt like doing was revamping the patio.

In fact, I know he would have preferred to spend his weekend resting and relaxing. But he never let me down. Tired or not, he’d help me with all my ‘projects’.

Stephen endeared himself to me even more when we became parents. He was so proud to be a father and a wonderfully hands-on partner.

I couldn’t have asked for a better father for my children. In fact, there were times I had to ask him to be a bit more hands-off so that I could get to my babies!

The lives of our children and their achievements gave Stephen an enormous amount of satisfaction.

He supported them every step of the way. He picked them up when they fell or failed.

He encouraged them to keep going. And he showed them how to be the resilient adults they have become.

My life was better that I could have ever imagined, and fuller that I ever dreamed because of Stephen’s presence by my side.

A Eulogy for a brother

how to write a speech for someone who died

I’m not going to stand up here and tell you that it was all sunshine and roses between David and myself growing up.

There were times I wished he wasn’t my brother. And I’m sure there were times he wished I wasn’t his sister.

We seemed to have a knack for pushing each other’s buttons, sometimes with some amusing consequences, sometimes not.

From the outset, David stood out as an individual. He did not march to the beat of society’s drum. He had his own internal drumbeat, and he remained committed to it.

One of my favorite memories of David is the one-and-only time my mother asked him to water her indoor plants. True to form, David came up with a plan to make the job easier.

He brought the hose and sprinkler indoors and turned it on. I’ll never forget the look on my mother’s face and the mischievous grin on David’s.

As we grew older, I began to see David for what he truly was. He was a caring brother who’d do anything to protect me.

He let me cry on his shoulder when I went through my first break-up. He was the only one who understood my hurt and confusion when our parents divorced.

David was a loyal and kind person who’d never let you down.

He’d have given anyone the shirt off his back. I’m proud to have called this incredibly special man my brother.

A Funeral Speech for a Sister

how to write a speech for someone who died

My sister Janet never met a challenge she didn’t conquer.

Even as a baby, she showed an exceptional amount of determination. She would turn her mind to an obstacle and work on it until she’d overcome it.

Of course, she drove me crazy. Having a little sister who wanted to tag along was, at times, infuriating.

She would go through the things in my room and leave a mess. When she was about ten years old, she got into my makeup drawer and went completely overboard.

When I caught her, she had rainbow-colored eyelids, forehead and cheeks. Her lips and teeth were full of lipstick, and there was mascara everywhere. I was furious at the time. When she saw how angry I was, she began to cry.

Anytime she’d open those beautiful big brown eyes of hers, silently reminding me that she was my flesh and blood, I couldn’t stay angry with her.

She’d open those beautiful big brown eyes and remind me that she was my flesh and blood. And I couldn’t stay angry with her.

Janet was an exemplary student. She had an incredible work ethic. If she didn’t understand something, she’d work at it until she did.

Losing my sister is so heartbreaking. She had so much left to offer the world.

But wherever she is, I know that she’s looking down on me now with those gorgeous brown eyes and that beautiful smile.

A Funeral Speech for a Close Acquaintance (e.g., a teacher, boss, coworker)

how to write a speech for someone who died

I’d like to start by offering John’s family my sincerest condolences.

Your loss is so great. You had a special man in your midst, and I’m can’t imagine the depth of loss you must feel.

John was my high school English teacher, so you might wonder why I refer to him as John and not as Mr. Robinson; it was at his insistence, as soon as I graduated.

When I first called him Mr. Robinson after graduation, he’d turned around and said, “Is my father standing behind me?” When I replied in the negative, he’d said, “Then why are you saying his name?”

John taught me so much more than English. He taught me how to think critically, and not to take things at face value.  

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He showed me the value of questioning that which was placed before me as fact. Thanks to him, I developed analytical skills that I continue to use today.

John’s work ethic influenced me greatly. He would always show us the value of hard work and diligence. I took those lessons to heart.

His passion for teaching English was contagious. I fell in love with the language on a different level thanks to him. He made the written word come alive in class.

He may not have known it, but John fulfilled an important role in my life. He was like a father, an uncle, and a big brother all rolled into one.

He shaped me into the man I am today. There are no words I can use to express my gratitude, which I know would disappoint John. After all, he made sure he taught us a wide vocabulary

Frantically Speaking

7 Tips For Writing A Memorial Speech (With Sample Speech)

Hrideep barot.

  • Speech Writing

memorial speech

Maybe you’re someone who does a lot of writing. Or maybe you’re someone who doesn’t. Either way, no matter whether you’re a seasoned writer & speaker, nothing quite prepares you for the task of writing a memorial speech. 

Most often, when people are writing memorials and eulogies, they are in the middle of a personal tragedy. If you’re writing a eulogy for someone, they were probably someone who was very dear to you and likewise. Even if the loss was expected, it doesn’t make things any easier. 

All of this makes collecting your thoughts & organizing them into a coherent speech all the more difficult. It even sounds absurd at times. 

And yet, it is your task to write a memorial speech for your loved one, no matter how difficult or absurd it might feel. And so we are here to help you out & make things a bit more easy for you. 

You can write a memorable memorial or tribute speech by keeping in mind a few things. This includes speaking to family members, including personal anecdotes, making sure its not cliched, including visual aids and ending on a heartfelt note.

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of it. 

Tips For Writing A Memorial or Tribute Speech  at a Funeral

writing a memorial speech

1. Speak To Family Members 

While a memorial speech is also a speech, the setting makes it different than any other speech you’ll ever have to give in life. This can cause a lot of confusion about what’s appropriate to include in your speech & what isn’t–especially if you’re not a family member. 

Even if you’re a family member, you might feel overburdened by the prospect of summarizing a person’s entire life after their death into a couple of paragraphs. 

So, it’s wise to seek the counsel of family members of the person you’ve passed away. Their insights will also allow you to enrich your speech. 

2. Write A Short, Personal Biography 

What were the person’s greatest achievements? What did they love and what did they hate? 

Before you begin writing your speech, jot down the most essential features of the person’s life. This can act as a starting point for the rest of your speech & you can then include all of these points while writing them down so that you don’t miss out on anything important. 

For more guidance on why writing down a speech is important, check out our article on 9 Reasons Why Writing A Speech Is Important.

3. Make It Personal, Not Cliched 

Cliche is definitely not something you want to aim for while writing your speech. Remember that death is a very personal experience. For all the people grieving in the room–including you–the loss is personal & incomparable. 

That’s why it’s important to make the speech personal to the deceased. Instead of making universal statements, you need to focus instead on the personal aspects of the deceased. 

For example, maybe the deceased was an excellent Jazz Musician when they were young. Or maybe they loved ballet even though they were terrible with it & couldn’t dance for one million dollars. 

Now would be the time to include things like this. 

4. Include Poems & Quotes 

Poetry and quotes are things that can touch us in ways other things might not– and that’s the case with most words. 

That’s why you’re delivering a memorial speech, after all. So, it’s a good idea to include poems & quotes in your speech, as it will make a more lasting impact on the minds of the people who’re attending, and make it more likely that they will remember your speech. 

5. Include Visual Aids 

This might sound odd at first, but it’s actually something that might have the most impact on the minds of the people attending. 

Was there something the person just loved wearing–maybe a t-shirt that’s on the verge of falling apart? Or is there something they gave you as a keepsake? Maybe there’s an object that you commonly associate with that person. 

Now would be a good time to bring them in. This would be a truly heartful thing to include in your speech. 

6. Include Special Anecdotes 

Was there any memorable moment that you shared with the person? Maybe an incident that other people haven’t heard about before. Or maybe it’s an incident that everyone has heard about before. 

Including personal anecdotes will make your speech more special & memorable for everyone attending. They can also act as an outlet for emotions–for both, you and the others. 

After all, it is a tribute.

7. End On A Heartfelt Note 

The ending of any speech is something that people tend to remember for longer than any other part of it. This goes for eulogies too. 

Instead of ending on a negative note, you want to conclude your eulogy on a note that’s comforting. You want to acknowledge the loss, yes. However, in the end, the entire point of the memorial is to give people closure. And how will they get that without comfort? 

Tips To Keep In Mind While Delivering The Memorial Speech

1. speak conversationally.

Remember that you’re not here to give a professional speech. You’re here to commemorate the life of a person who touched the lives of the people in the room, probably yours as well. You don’t want to go for a formal tone when you’re speaking.

Instead, talk naturally, and as you would if you were having a conversation with other people.

2. Don’t Worry If Emotions Overcome You

It’s alright to feel a surge of emotions when you’re giving your speech. In fact, it’s quite natural. Even if you get overwhelmed with emotions and feel yourself start to choke up, don’t worry. It’s okay to be vulnerable.

Pause. Take a deep breath. Collect yourself. And then go on with your speech.

It’s an emotional day for everybody.

3. Take A Moment To Collect Your Thoughts

When you’re called up to deliver your eulogy, take a moment to collect your thoughts. Take a few deep breaths. Drink a couple of mouthfuls of water. Maybe hug another person who’s close to you.

This will allow you to get your emotions in check, and to organize your thoughts. It will also help you brace yourself for the big task ahead: delivering the eulogy.

4. Have A Standby With You

Another thing that you can do in case you’re overwhelmed with emotion is to have a standby with you. This can be anybody, from your sibling to your parent to a close friend. You can give them a copy of your speech so that they can help you out by finishing it in case you’re too overwhelmed to continue.

Make sure to give the person the copy well in advance so that they can be prepared. Alternatively, you could simply give them an overview of your speech & they can pick it off from there.

5. Look Your Loved Ones In The Eye

Another tip would be to look your loved ones in the eye when you’re delivering your speech. You don’t have to necessarily continue maintaining eye contact with them throughout your speech. Instead, look at them intermittently throughout the speech.

This will not only help them make a better connection with you, but it will also help you get emotional support and get through your speech.

How To Begin Your Memorial Speech 

on the memorial day

1. Start With A Quote 

This is an age-old way to start off a eulogy and for good reasons. There are many types of quotes that you can go with. 

Maybe you could speak a quote that the person loved. Maybe it’s something from a book or movie. Alternatively, you could also start off with a quote from the Bible or Koran, if the person was religious. 

For Example: 

2. Start With A Lighthearted Story 

Often, the mood in a memorial service is heavy & sad. This can make it difficult for people to care about your speech, and to use it as inspiration to talk about the person’s themselves. 

One way to lighten up the mood is by reciting a lighthearted story. Maybe a funny incident from the person’s life, or something the two of you witnessed together. 

For example: If there’s one thing that Joe loved more than food, it was jokes–and bad ones at that. Let me tell you my favorite.

3. Start With A Song Or Poem 

Another way to start a eulogy would be with a song. This can be something personal to you and the deceased. Maybe a song that had a special place in their lives. 

Similarly, you could also start off with a poem. This can be something you’ve written yourself–or even a poem which you read. 

You don’t want your song or poem too to on for too long. Remember that you’ve to include words, too. 

4. Start By Saying Something Not Commonly Known 

Was there something the deceased frequently did that other people didn’t know about? Maybe even though they were a strict army parent at first glance, they were actually perpetually late to things. 

What are some things about the deceased that are at contrast to what other people know about them? You might want to start off with an unknown fact about them.

If you’re not sure what to include, you can ask their family members to help you out. 

For Example: For someone who worked in the Law Department for so long, Amy sure did love breaking rules when she was younger. 

5. Start With A Personal Prop 

Remember how we mentioned bringing an item you associate with the deceased to the memorial? Now would be a good time to bring it out. 

This will help you make a unique impression on people’s minds right off the start. It will also immediately connect with other people & make them remember the deceased themselves, encouraging them to speak out too. 

For example: Bring out the deceased’s favorite baseball cap & tell a story you associate with it. 

Sample Memorial Speech

the bond between a mother and child

Sample Memorial Speech from a Son to a Mother

“For someone who worked over three decades rescuing dogs, my mother was quite terrified of puppies when she was younger. In fact, she was so terrified of dogs that as a sixteen-year-old she once climbed a tree when a little puppy barked at her. Imagine that… A twelve-year-old five-foot girl climbed to the top of a tree thrice her height because a little puppy was barking at her! And the story doesn’t end here. Not only did she scale the tree–which, by the way, she had never done in her life before–but she also refused to get down . My grandfather had the entire neighborhood out of their homes attempting to convince her to get down from that tree. Because, of course, while adrenaline had managed to boost her up the tree, she had no clue how to get down from it. In the end, it was only four hours later when the fire department came along that they were able to get her down. For almost a week after my grandfather told me this story–despite my mother’s vehement protests, by the way–I couldn’t get the picture of my twelve-year-old mother clinging for dear life the branch of a tree out of my head. And it’s this picture that stuck with me as I sat down to write this speech. Because you see, there’s no other picture or story that better sums up my mother. She always did things without thinking them through, as most of the people in this room might already know. She was the most intuitive, the most instinctive, and spontaneous person that I’ve ever met in my entire life. And yet things always seemed to work out for her, in the end. My mother lived a long, happy, and fulfilled life. Two decades of this life she spent working with animals–the very same thing that awakened her inner Tarzan in our tree-climbing story. And she loved them–or, at least, grew to love them. You see, after this incident, my grandfather had her volunteer at a local animal shelter. It was over there that she learned how to overcome her fear of animals–little puppies, too. And slowly, that fear turned into love. Many of you in this room know her from this time in her life. My mother was a vibrant soul. My father used to say that she could light up an entire room when she stepped into it–although, of course, that’s probably because he was hopelessly in love with her. Even though raising four boys was most certainly not the easiest thing in the world, she never backed down. She raised us with love–and respect. She never forced us to be anything that we’re not, and she never let anyone else pull any of us down for being a little different sometimes, either. But the fact that so many of you are here today to pay respects to her shows her immediate family wasn’t the only ones whose lives she touched. She would never turn anyone away, didn’t matter whether she herself was going through problems or not. She would be beyond happy to see all of you here–and she would let you know that, too. Never ran out of words, my mother. When I moved away for University, she would make the eight-hour drive from my little hometown to my apartment every month so that she could chatter my ear off for an entire weekend–not counting the hour-long talks that we had every single day. She could keep a dead conversation alive for hours–I’m sure you know what I’m talking about. And this is how I remember my mother: as a spontaneous, hard-working, happy soul who is probably chattering with all the other souls up in heaven about her own memorial. And if she’s watching–which I know she is–then I simply want to thank her for everything that she’s done for all of us, and to let her know that she’s still loved and remembered and will always be. To repeat the words she said at my dad’s funeral: To live in the hearts of those we love is not to die.”

To sum up, writing a memorial speech is something that nobody really prepares you for. And yet, if you keep a few things in mind, you can outline a memorial speech that will connect with the people who’re there with you. This includes speaking to family members, including personal anecdotes, making sure its not cliched, including visual aids and ending on a heartfelt note.

Hrideep Barot

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how to write a speech for someone who died

5 Tips for Writing a Beautiful Funeral Speech About Your Loved One

Saying “goodbye” hurts to the core, especially when it’s a loved one. You all of sudden think of all the things you should have said when they were alive.

You still can. A funeral speech gives you the opportunity the says things you never did.

A good eulogy honors the life of the person who has passed away. It highlights the positive attributes of their character and lifestyle. Eulogies offer moments of reflection for those in attendance, giving them temporary relief from grief.

They also express the need to let go while saying “I’ll always love you, and I’ll never forget you.”

Were you asked to speak at a funeral? You may find it challenging to arrange your words into a proper funeral speech. Relax. Here’s some great advice for planning the perfect speech.

1. Remember What a Funeral Speech Is

Funeral speeches are eulogies. They pay special tribute to someone who’s recently passed away. If you’ve never been asked, consider the request as an honor.

Your purpose as the eulogizer is to bring comfort by reminding grieving people of the important role the deceased played in their lives. While you’re reminding them, also pay your respects.

2.Start With Opening Remarks

While there’s no set outline for eulogies, they all start with opening remarks. This is where you introduce yourself to the funeral attendees.

Keep your intro brief unless you’re opening with a sweet anecdote about the deceased. Refrain from giving your entire bio, especially if the entire grieving attendees are family.

The short intro serves those in attendance who don’t know you and your relationship to the deceased.

3. Gratitude and Condolences

As a eulogizer, you’re standing in an honorable position. Family members of the deceased thought highly of you if they chose you to eulogize their loved one.

Thank them for it.

Show your appreciation for getting asked to honor the deceased and the family. After you give thanks, offer your condolences , even if you’re family. Condolences further express thanks for the privilege of paying tribute to the deceased.

4.Start With the Honors

If you didn’t get the opportunity to give the deceased their flowers before they died, here’s your chance. Start with the honors.

Discuss all the things that made the deceased special. Talk about awards you know of, their work ethics, and their parenting skills. If you know of any honors they earned in their community, bring those up as well.

This is the heart of your eulogy, so make it count.

If they were religious, speak on their faith and the role it played in their everyday life. It may draw out a lot of emotion in the room, but that’s fine. Sometimes speaking on faith has a way of offering free therapy.

Round the eulogy up a beautiful memory. Include as much imagery as possible.

5. Say Farewell

Sharing a heartfelt memory in your eulogy is like leaving the family with a hug. Afterward is the perfect time to offer words of comfort and prepare them to say farewell.

Don’t offer a singular goodbye. Involve the room, particularly the family. Consider having everyone stand as you read the deceased favorite quote, mantra, or bible verse.

Bid them farewell.

Say Goodbye

There’s no easy or textbook way set in stone on how to deliver a funeral speech. Saying goodbye isn’t something you plan. One thing is true, however. You can be authentic, gracious, and most of all, benevolent.

Do you need help planning a loved one’s funeral? Use our planning ahead guide then contact us for help laying someone you loved to rest.

Our family-owned funeral homes, Kuzo and Foulk, are here to help the Kennett Square, West Grove, and surrounding PA communities. Whether that’s with preplanning, a death in the family, cremation, a casket, the funeral service, or a funeral director, we’re here for you. Contact us for all of your funeral needs.

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Writing a eulogy: what to say at a funeral speech

A woman supports a man as he reads the eulogy at a funeral

Have you been asked to write a eulogy? And deliver it at the funeral? You might have questions about how to get it right. Here are some tips on writing a eulogy to help you give a heart-warming funeral speech.

What is a eulogy?

A eulogy is a speech that’s given at a funeral or memorial service. It’s a tribute to someone who’s passed away and a way to share memories of them. It’s an opportunity to look back at their life and talk about what made them unique. It’s also called a funeral speech.

A speech at a funeral is called a eulogy because when the word is broken down it actually means  praise . The Greek roots of the word eulogy are  eu  which means good and  logos  which means speech. So when you are delivering a eulogy you’re praising the person who’s died, and speaking about the good they have done in their life.

Who reads the eulogy at a funeral?

Typically the eulogy at a funeral is given by someone who was close to the person who died. For example, children might give a eulogy at a parent’s funeral. But a eulogy can be delivered by family or friends of the person who passed away. If those closest to the person think reading the eulogy will be too much for them the celebrant (the person leading the service) can read it for them instead.

How to write a eulogy

Knowing how to write a eulogy won’t necessarily come naturally. It may feel like a big responsibility. But remember that it doesn’t have to be perfect, or formal if that doesn’t feel right. When you’re planning what to put in a eulogy keep in mind that it doesn’t have to follow a set structure or have a sad tone. You can adapt it to reflect the personality of the person who passed away and add a little humour if you think it’s appropriate.

Below is a short video on how to write a eulogy. It’ll give you some ideas about how to write a funeral speech that feels right.

Writing a eulogy step by step

If you’re writing a eulogy for a loved one here’s one way of approaching it. It’ll help you take it step by step to make things a little easier.

It’s a good idea to think about the eulogy in different sections (start, middle and ending) and then focus on writing each one in turn. You could write one section a day if you’re finding it difficult to sit down and write the whole eulogy at once. Before you start writing anything at all, you might like to chat to other friends and family members to hear their memories too. There might be specific things they’d like you to mention in the funeral speech.

How to start a eulogy

How do you start off a eulogy? It can feel like the hardest part. One easy way to begin is with a story about the person who’s died. You could talk about how you met them or share a story that shows the kind of person they were. To find some inspiration, try writing down some of your favourite stories about them. They can be touching, funny, emotional or inspiring.

Here are a few things you could think about to get started:

  • The first time I met them…
  • The thing everyone always said about them…
  • The last time I saw them they said…
  • The thing I will always remember about them…

What to say in a eulogy

Keeping to a basic eulogy structure will make it easier for you to say, and easier for people to follow. Try to have 3-5 main points, then give yourself 1-2 minutes to say each point.

Things you could include in your eulogy:

  • Stories that show the personality and best qualities of the person
  • Share the person’s favourite poem or song lyrics
  • Share something that the person said, and that you will always remember
  • Talk about their favourite interests or hobbies
  • Celebrate the biggest achievements in their life

Rather than simply writing a funeral speech that tells the person’s life in order, consider basing the eulogy around the stories and moments that stand out.

How to end a eulogy

It’s best to end your funeral speech with something memorable and meaningful. You could end with an uplifting quote from the person who has died, or you could finish with a final story. You could even end with a sentence about what you think the person would say to everyone if they were still here. Alternatively, you could finish with a poem or song.

What makes a good eulogy?

Ultimately it doesn’t matter which stories or quotes you choose to put in the eulogy. And it doesn’t matter if you choose to keep things formal or go with a lighter tone. As long as your funeral speech is respectful and celebrates the person who passed away everyone else in the room will be grateful for it. If you’re still not sure where to start and need more eulogy ideas our  hub of poems, songs and readings  might help.

How long should a eulogy be?

Eulogies are usually quite short. Try to write a speech that lasts between 5 and 10 minutes, as a guide. But it’s important to think about how long you feel comfortable speaking for. If you only want to speak for a couple of minutes, that’s fine too.

Tips for speaking at a funeral

Practising how to deliver a eulogy is important too. It’ll help you feel more confident about speaking at the funeral and give you the time you need to fully prepare.

  • Practise the funeral speech as much as you can.  Ask someone to listen to you read through the eulogy and give you advice about where you need to slow down or speak more clearly.
  • Use something to help you remember your words.  You may prefer to have your funeral speech written down word-for-word. Others prefer short prompts or cue cards.
  • Don’t worry about faltering.  Nobody expects you to get through a eulogy without crying. You may stumble over sentences, you may become upset. No need to apologise – just take a deep breath and move on when you can.
  • Bring a copy of your funeral speech written out in full.  Even if you don’t plan to use it. That way, if you don’t feel you can deliver the speech on the day, you can ask someone else to read it for you.

In the video below, funeral celebrants Alison Regan, Lyndsey Conquest, Karen Nutton, and Stuart Atherton offer their tips for speaking at a funeral:

What if you can’t deliver the eulogy?

If you can’t face delivering a eulogy at the funeral, that’s perfectly OK. You can ask a friend or the person leading the funeral to read your speech for you. They can also help you to write it, if you’re finding that difficult too. Hopefully our eulogy ideas have helped you understand how to write a funeral speech. You’ll find more tips and advice about planning or going to a funeral in our advice hub.

Visit our advice centre

If you need help preparing for a funeral, we're here to help. Our advice centre can answer the questions you have about planning for a funeral.

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Prepare, Write & Give a Eulogy

January 3, 2022 - Dom Barnard

  • Eulogy overview
  • Thinking about your audience and the person
  • How to write a eulogy
  • Speaking on the day – how to give a eulogy
  • Eulogy examples from the famous
  • Eulogy quotes to calm, comfort & heal

1. Eulogy Overview

Writing and giving a eulogy is a way of saying farewell to someone who has died that, in a sense, brings the person to life in the minds of the audience. You don’t have to be a great writer or orator to deliver a heartfelt and meaningful eulogy that captures the essence of the deceased.

For some people, the opportunity to speak during the funeral service about the person they knew is a welcome one – but many of us still do not realise this is possible and believe that eulogies are just for the famous. You’re being asked to do something at the very moment when nothing can be done. You get the last word in the attempt to define the outlines of a life.

There is no right or wrong way to write a eulogy: each is as unique as the person giving it and the person it describes. But even if you’re used to speaking in public,  finding words to say  can be difficult because of the special circumstances of a funeral. You may be coping with your own grief. You may feel a heavy burden of responsibility to get it ‘right’, in terms of both content – what to say – and tone – how to say it. You may prefer to ask someone else to write it, or perhaps have them on standby to give it for you.

Whatever your thoughts, you should not feel pressured into giving a eulogy or guilty if you feel unable to do so. If you feel you did not know the person well enough, or are simply not that interested in characterising this person’s life, suggest someone else do it, stating that you’re too overcome with grief. This is a hugely important job.

Eulogy Definition

A speech or piece of writing that praises someone or something highly, especially a tribute to someone who has just died.

Late Middle English (in the sense ‘high praise’): from medieval Latin eulogium, eulogia (from Greek eulogia ‘praise’), apparently influenced by Latin elogium ‘inscription on a tomb’ (from Greek elegia ‘elegy’). The current sense dates from the late 16th century. ( Oxford Dictionary )

how to write a speech for someone who died

President George W. Bush delivers a eulogy during funeral services for former President Gerald R. Ford at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington.

2. Thinking about your Audience and the Person

Start by thinking of the people you are addressing, as well as the person you are describing: the eulogy is about the person, but for the audience.

Key thoughts about your audience

Who are they – family and close friends only or others too? There may be specific things to say or avoid.

How will they feel? Listening to you will obviously be highly emotional for those closest to the person, and some people will be in tears. But this doesn’t mean the eulogy should be mournful and depressing. People will be grateful if what you say is uplifting and inspiring.

What do they want to hear? Most people want to hear good things about a person who has died, and forget the bad things. But people don’t become saints just because they die. Your audience will want to feel you have captured the essence of the person – what makes them special. So be honest, but selective.

How long should it be? Even in the circumstances of a funeral, many people find it difficult to listen to one person talking for a long time, so a eulogy should really be over in a matter of minutes – just how many is a matter of individual choice.

Think of the person

A good eulogy doesn’t just tell the audience about the person – in a sense it brings the person to life in their imagination and gives them something by which to remember them. You can do this by  telling stories about the person : the happy things, the funny things, the sad things, the unusual things that happened, which sum up their life. Talking about these and the enduring qualities which describe what they were really like as a person, will help you build a picture for the audience with your words.

You may have all the information you need, or you may want to speak to other people close to the person to get precise details and check your facts. You may have arranged the funeral as a friend of the deceased, not knowing too much about them and having no relatives to turn to for information, in which case you can base your eulogy on your impressions of them as a person. Once you have the material and have thought about it in relation to the people you are talking to, you are ready to start putting it together.

Use these points to help build memories and stories.

  • You could start by looking around the house and pulling out old photo albums, going through old letters or emails, and any other memorabilia.
  • Perhaps go for a walk around your loved one’s house and garden as this may trigger memories and ideas.
  • Talking to close relatives, friends, and acquaintances is also an excellent way to remember things.

Here are some prompts to help you get started:

  • Who am I speaking to?
  • How would the person like to be remembered?
  • What made them special? Favourite pastimes and interests, likes and dislikes?
  • When were they happiest?
  • Who was really close to them?
  • What did I really like about them? What did other people really like about them?
  • What are the highlights of their life story?
  • If I could say only three things about them, what would they be?
  • Who can help me check my facts?
  • Do I want someone else to give the eulogy on my behalf on the day?
  • Is anyone else planning to speak about the person at the funeral? Do we need to avoid saying the same thing twice?

3. How to Write a Eulogy

The hardest task in preparing any talk is often not so much deciding what you’re going to say as deciding how to organise it into a structure with a beginning, middle and end. There are no hard and fast rules – here are some suggestions about preparation and use our  Guide to Public Speaking  for more in depth tips.

Write the eulogy with the deceased’s family and loved ones in mind

Dwell on the positive, but be honest. If the person was difficult or inordinately negative, avoid talking about that or allude to it gently. Make sure you don’t say anything that would offend, shock, or confuse the audience. For example, don’t make any jokes or comments about the deceased that would be a mystery to the majority of the crowd.

Decide on the tone

How serious or light-hearted do you want the eulogy to be? A good eulogy need not be uniformly sombre, just appropriate. Some eulogy-writers take a serious approach, others are bold enough to add humour. Used cautiously, humour can help convey the personality of the deceased and illustrate some of his or her endearing qualities.

The tone can also be partially determined by the way the deceased passed away. If you’re giving a eulogy about a teenager who met an untimely death, then your tone would be more serious than it would if you were giving a eulogy about a grandparent who happily lived to see his ninetieth birthday.

Do I write it word for word?

Yes, if it helps. But if you do, speak it out to yourself as you’re writing, otherwise your words may sound stilted when you actually come to deliver it. When we speak normally, we don’t speak in perfect sentences. What’s important isn’t the grammar, but the points you are making and the stories you are telling. So if you can, don’t write word for word, but put key points on a card to have with you. An exception to this is where you are using a piece of poetry or song, in which case you may want the exact words to hand.

Briefly introduce yourself

Even if most people in the audience know you, just state your name and give a few words that describe your relationship to the deceased. If it’s a really small crowd, you can start with, “For anybody who doesn’t know me…” If you’re related to the deceased, describe how; if not, say a few words about how and when you met.

Avoid clichés like “We are gathered here today…” and begin as you mean to go on, with something special to that person. After introducing yourself, it may be best to get straight to your point as everyone knows why there are there. For example: “There are many things for which she will be remembered, but what we will never forget is her sense of humour…

State the basic information about the deceased

Though your eulogy doesn’t have to read like an obituary or give all of the basic information about the life of the deceased, you should touch on a few key points, such as what his family life was like, what his career achievements were, and what hobbies and interests mattered the most to him. You can find a way of mentioning this information while praising or remembering the deceased.

Include Family

Write down the names of the family members especially closed to the deceased. You may forget their names on the big day because you’re overwhelmed by sadness, so it’s advisable to have them on hand.

Make sure you say something specific about the family life of the deceased — this would be very important to his family.

These points are discussed in more detail in the  Funeralcare Well Chosen Words  guide.

how to write a speech for someone who died

Illustrate parts of their life with a story and give specific examples of great or kind things they have done.

Use specific examples to describe the deceased

Mention a quality and then illustrate it with a story. It is the stories that bring the person–and that quality–to life. Talk to as many people as you can to get their impressions, memories, and thoughts about the deceased, and then write down as many memories of your own as you can. Look for a common theme that unites your ideas, and try to illustrate this theme through specific examples.

  • If the deceased is remembered for being kind, talk about the time he helped a homeless man get back on his feet.
  • If the deceased is known for being a prankster, mention his famous April Fool’s prank.
  • Pretend that a stranger is listening to your eulogy. Would he get a good sense of the person you’re describing without ever meeting him just from your words?

Organise & Structure your Speech

Give the eulogy a  beginning, middle, and end . Avoid rambling or, conversely, speaking down to people. You may have a sterling vocabulary, but dumb it down for the masses just this once. The average eulogy is about 3-5 minutes long. That should be enough for you to give a meaningful speech about the deceased. Remember that less is more; you don’t want to try the patience of the audience during such a sad occasion.

Decide the best order for what you’re going to say:

  • Chronological? This would suit the life-story approach, beginning with their childhood and working through the highlights of their life.
  • Reverse chronological? Beginning with the present or recent past, then working backwards.
  • Three-point plan? Decide three key things to say and the order for saying them.
  • Theme? Choose one big thing and give examples, anecdotes, stories to explain and illustrate it.

Get feedback

Once you’re written the eulogy and feel fairly confident in what you’ve written, have some close friends or family members who know the deceased well read it to make sure that it’s not only accurate, but that it does well with capturing the essence of the deceased. They’ll also be able to see if you’ve said anything inappropriate, forgotten something important, stated incorrect facts or wrote anything that was confusing or difficult to understand.

How will I end?

If you intend to play a piece of music or give a reading after your eulogy, you can end by explaining why you’ve chosen it. If not, then a good way could be to end with a short sentence of farewell, maybe the very last thing you said to them – or wanted to say to them – before they died.

4. How to Give a Eulogy – Speaking on the Day

As with thinking and writing about the person, there is no right way to speak about them. However people sometimes do things, usually when they’re feeling nervous or self-conscious, which can interfere with the audience’s ability to follow and reflect on their words.

Practice your eulogy and get feedback on your performance with  VirtualSpeech .

Rehearse the eulogy before the big day

Read the draft of your eulogy aloud. If you have time, read it to someone as practice. Words sound differently when read aloud than on paper. If you have inserted humour, get feedback from someone about its appropriateness and effectiveness. Consider using a virtual reality app to help immerse you in a realistic environment while practising.

This could help you polish the text as well as giving you greater control over your emotions on the day itself.

Have a standby

Though you should hope that you’re emotionally prepared to give the speech on the big day, you should have a close friend or family member who has read the eulogy be prepared to read it for you in case you’re too choked up to read it. Though you probably won’t need one, you’ll feel more relaxed just knowing that you have a backup if you need one.

Use a conversational tone

Talk or read your eulogy to the audience as if you are talking to friends. Make eye contact. Pause. Go slowly if you want. Connect with your audience and share the moment with them; after all, you’re not an entertainer, you’re one of them. There’s no need to be formal when you’re surrounded by loved ones who share your grief.

Wear suitable Clothes

Wear clothes  appropriate to the occasion , the audience and the person who has died. If you look out of place, you will only distract people from your words.

Stand up to give the eulogy

Even though you may at first feel a little exposed, it helps people see and hear you better. While standing, try not to fidget or make nervous gestures, it will only distract people.

Speak slowly

When we are nervous, we tend to speak too quickly. By speaking slowly, you give yourself time to think and choose your words. You also give people time to take in and think about what you’re saying. And if you’re in a large room, speaking slowly helps you project your voice.

Don’t worry if Overcome with Emotion

Don’t worry if you find yourself losing your words or overcome with emotion. Pause, take a few deep breaths and carry on. There’s no requirement on you to give a slick and polished talk and people will be supportive.

Memorise as much as you can

Memorise as much of the speech as you can. On the day, try not to read word for word. Or if you do, make sure you have written it to be spoken, not read. Your words will sound more heartfelt if you’re not reading every sentence right off the page.

5. Examples – Eulogies for the Famous

Earl spencer’s funeral oration for princess diana.

“We are all united not only in our desire to pay our respects to Diana but rather in our need to do so. For such was her extraordinary appeal that the tens of millions of people taking part in this service all over the world via television and radio who never actually met her, feel that they too lost someone close to them in the early hours of Sunday morning. It is a more remarkable tribute to Diana than I can ever hope to offer her today.

Diana was the very essence of compassion, of duty, of style, of beauty. All over the world she was a symbol of selfless humanity. All over the world, a standard bearer for the rights of the truly downtrodden, a very British girl who transcended nationality. Someone with a natural nobility who was classless and who proved in the last year that she needed no royal title to continue to generate her particular brand of magic.

Today is our chance to say thank you for the way you brightened our lives, even though God granted you but half a life. We will all feel cheated always that you were taken from us so young and yet we must learn to be grateful that you came along at all. Only now that you are gone do we truly appreciate what we are now without and we want you to know that life without you is very, very difficult.

We have all despaired at our loss over the past week and only the strength of the message you gave us through your years of giving has afforded us the strength to move forward.”

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“Diana was the very essence of compassion, of duty, of style, of beauty. All over the world she was a symbol of selfless humanity. All over the world, a standard bearer for the rights of the truly downtrodden, a very British girl who transcended nationality.”

Mona Simpson’s Eulogy for Steve Jobs

When I met Steve, he was a guy my age in jeans, Arab- or Jewish-looking and handsomer than Omar Sharif. We took a long walk – something, it happened, that we both liked to do. I don’t remember much of what we said that first day, only that he felt like someone I’d pick to be a friend. He explained that he worked in computers.

I didn’t know much about computers. I still worked on a manual Olivetti typewriter. I told Steve I’d recently considered my first purchase of a computer: something called the Cromemco. Steve told me it was a good thing I’d waited. He said he was making something that was going to be insanely beautiful.

I want to tell you a few things I learned from Steve, during three distinct periods, over the 27 years I knew him. They’re not periods of years, but of states of being. His full life. His illness. His dying.

Steve worked at what he loved. He worked really hard. Every day. That’s incredibly simple, but true. He was the opposite of absent-minded. He was never embarrassed about working hard, even if the results were failures. If someone as smart as Steve wasn’t ashamed to admit trying, maybe I didn’t have to be.

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“Steve worked at what he loved. He worked really hard. Every day. That’s incredibly simple, but true. He was the opposite of absent-minded. He was never embarrassed about working hard, even if the results were failures. If someone as smart as Steve wasn’t ashamed to admit trying, maybe I didn’t have to be.”

Jawaharlal Nehru’s Eulogy for Mahatma Gandhi

He has gone, and all over India there is a feeling of having been left desolate and forlorn. All of us sense that feeling, and I do not know when we shall be able to get rid of it. And yet together with that feeling there is also a feeling of proud thankfulness that it has been given to us of this generation to be associated with this mighty person.

In ages to come, centuries and maybe millennia after us, people will think of this generation when this man of God trod on earth, and will think of us who, however small, could also follow his path and tread the holy ground where his feet had been.

“In ages to come, centuries and maybe millennia after us, people will think of this generation when this man of God trod on earth, and will think of us who, however small, could also follow his path and tread the holy ground where his feet had been.”

Martin Luther King’s Eulogy by Robert F. Kennedy

Martin Luther King, the American civil rights leader and winner of the Nobel Prize for Peace, was born in Montgomery, Alabama. He rose to prominence in the civil rights movement of the 1950s, led the famous March on Washington in 1963, and the March from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, in 1965. A brilliant orator and writer, whose insistence upon nonviolence in the Gandhian tradition accounted for the success of the movement, Dr. King was assassinated on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee, by a white man.

What we need in the United States is not division; what we need in the United States is not hatred; what we need in the United States is not violence or lawlessness, but love and wisdom and compassion toward one another, and a feeling of injustice towards those who still suffer within our country, whether they be white or they be black.

“What we need in the United States is not division; what we need in the United States is not hatred; what we need in the United States is not violence or lawlessness, but love and wisdom and compassion toward one another”

Barack Obama’s Eulogy for Sen. Ted Kennedy

Mrs. Kennedy, Kara, Edward, Patrick, Curran, Caroline, members of the Kennedy family, distinguished guests, and fellow citizens:

Today we say goodbye to the youngest child of Rose and Joseph Kennedy. The world will long remember their son Edward as the heir to a weighty legacy; a champion for those who had none; the soul of the Democratic Party; and the lion of the U.S. Senate – a man whose name graces nearly one thousand laws, and who penned more than three hundred himself.

But those of us who loved him, and ache with his passing, know Ted Kennedy by the other titles he held: Father. Brother. Husband. Uncle Teddy, or as he was often known to his younger nieces and nephews, “The Grand Fromage,” or “The Big Cheese.” I, like so many others in the city where he worked for nearly half a century, knew him as a colleague, a mentor, and above all, a friend.

Ted Kennedy has gone home now, guided by his faith and by the light of those he has loved and lost. At last he is with them once more, leaving those of us who grieve his passing with the memories he gave, the good he did, the dream he kept alive, and a single, enduring image – the image of a man on a boat; white mane tousled; smiling broadly as he sails into the wind, ready for what storms may come, carrying on toward some new and wondrous place just beyond the horizon. May God Bless Ted Kennedy, and may he rest in eternal peace.

“But those of us who loved him, and ache with his passing, know Ted Kennedy by the other titles he held: Father. Brother. Husband. Uncle Teddy, or as he was often known to his younger nieces and nephews, “The Grand Fromage,” or “The Big Cheese.” I, like so many others in the city where he worked for nearly half a century, knew him as a colleague, a mentor, and above all, a friend.”

Further Eulogy Examples

  • Free sample eulogies with many examples to choose from.
  • Eulogy examples which have all been used at funerals.
  • 10 Eulogy Examples for various situations.

6. Eulogy quotes & funeral readings to calm, comfort & heal

Attitude toward death.

Live your life that the fear of death can never enter your heart. Trouble no one about his religion. Respect others in their views and demand that they respect yours. Love your life, perfect your life, beautify all things in your life. Seek to make your life long and of service to your people. Prepare a noble death song for the day when you go over the great divide. Always give a word or sign of salute when meeting or passing a friend, or even a stranger, if in a lonely place. Show respect to all people, but grovel to none. When you rise in the morning, give thanks for the light, for your life, for your strength. Give thanks for your food and for the joy of living. If you see no reason to give thanks, the fault lies in yourself. Touch not the poisonous firewater that makes wise ones turn to fools and robs the spirit of its vision. When your time comes to die, be not like those whose hearts are filled with fear of death, so that when their time comes they weep and pray for a little more time to live their lives over again in a different way. Sing your death song, and die like a hero going home.

The Teaching of Tecumseh

All Return Again

It is the secret of the world that all things subsist and do not die, but only retire a little from sight and afterwards return again. Nothing is dead; men feign themselves dead, and endure mock funerals and mournful obituaries, and there they stand looking out of the window, sound and well, in some new strange disguise. Jesus is not dead; he is very well alive; nor John, nor Paul, nor Mahomet, nor Aristotle; at times we believe we have seen them all, and could easily tell the names under which they go.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

For additional quotes, funeral poems and readings, visit the  write-out-loud website.

Free Sample Eulogy Speeches (Plus Writing Tips)

Kelly has more than 12 years experience as a professional writer and editor.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

Sample eulogies can provide ideas when you need to prepare a speech for a funeral. Being asked to give a eulogy is a great honor, but it can also be daunting. Finding the right words to mark the passing of a friend or family member's life is difficult when emotions run high. There is no right or wrong way to write a eulogy, but each tribute has a basic flow. The speech doesn't have to be perfect; it just has to come from the heart.

Eulogy Example for a Friend

Following an easy format makes it easier to pull together a eulogy for a friend and takes some pressure off starting from scratch. Follow this format to make composing the eulogy easier.

  • How to Create an Obituary in 11 Steps
  • What to Say in Funeral Thank You Notes: Examples, Tips, and Etiquette
  • 7 Meaningful Examples of Thank You Notes for Funeral Flowers

Thank you all for coming to help us celebrate Liza's life and share our grief at her passing.

  • Introduction

My name is Carol, and Liza and I have been best friends since childhood. We lived just five houses apart on National Avenue, and we spent part of nearly every day together as kids.

When I think of Liza as a child, I remember how much she loved exploring the ravine behind our house. Half of our summers were spent wandering through the woods, looking for crayfish under rocks along the creek, climbing trees, and generally doing things that would have given our parents gray hair much sooner if they knew what we had been up to each day. I have to share one memory that really illustrates Liza's fearless, and sometimes impulsive, nature. Some of the neighborhood boys had built a rope swing in a tree along the ravine's edge. Liza, being fearless, decided to give it a try. As she swung out over the edge, one of the boys jokingly called out, "Jump!" My heart leaped to my throat as I saw Liza let go of the rope on her next swing out. Luckily she wound up with nothing more than skinned knees and a sheepish grin that said she couldn't believe she had just done that, but it just goes to show what a risk taker she was.

More than a simple risk taker, Liza also had a generous soul, as I'm sure many of you here this morning can attest to. She never met a person in need that she didn't find some way of helping. Her work as director of our local family shelter became her greatest passion, and she put in tireless hours organizing meals and places where "her families" could all stay together until they could get back on their feet. I say, "her families" with all seriousness because she didn't just take them into shelters; she really took them into her heart and kept contact with them even after their lives were back on track.

Mention of Family/Friends

When you combine the facts that Liza was a compassionate soul and willing to take risks, it's not difficult to understand why she ventured out in that terrible snowstorm on Wednesday night to try to take food and diapers to one of her families in need. Yes, maybe they would have been alright until morning, but that wasn't how Liza would have thought about it. She would have worried about their empty stomachs and imagined the sound of that baby's crying. She would have set any thoughts for her safety aside and gone to their aid, and that's exactly what she did.

Of course, we now know that she never made it to that family. We can second guess Liza's decision with 20/20 hindsight, or we can embrace the fact that she died doing something she believed in so deeply. Knowing her as I did, I can tell you that her only regret about her decision to go out on the road that night would have been that her husband, Mitch, is now left to carry on without her. As passionate as she was about her shelter work, Mitch was truly the love of her life.

It may comfort us all a bit to realize that Liza is now reunited with her beloved parents, Lee and Meredith, and that someday we'll all be together again when we cross over to the other side. This is only a brief parting in the larger scheme of life.

One thing you may or may not know is that Liza was a huge fan of the band Queen. She particularly loved a song called Dear Friends , and she once made me promise that if she passed before I did, I would play the song at her memorial, or at least read the lyrics. So, I'll read those now in closing, and I hope they leave you with the message that time will heal our wounds, and that life truly does go on.

Eulogy Sample for a Parent

Writing a eulogy for a parent's death can be an incredibly emotional task. Use the following sample to help you create one personalized for your parent.

Welcome and Introduction

For anyone who may not know me, my name is Jean, and I am Rita's eldest daughter. Thank you all for coming here today to help us say goodbye to Mom.

To me, Mom was my guiding light. She set the example of what a good wife, mother, and friend should be. She always did her best to be patient with all of her children, and there were five of us, so that was no easy feat. She tried to carve out some quality time with each of us, and believe me, we were all jealous when it was someone else's turn. However, that just shows you how much we all loved her and wanted that one-on-one time with Mom. When it was your turn, you found out that she hadn't really missed out on anything that was going on in your life, she just hadn't talked with you about it yet.

As for her life with Dad, she set a shining example of the kind of unconditional love required to see a marriage through good times and bad. I remember when Dad lost his job at the auto factory. He was so worried about finding work, and he felt he was letting Mom and all of us down because he couldn't provide for us. Mom gave him a big hug and told him she had no doubt that he would find another job that was as good or better than the one at the factory, and she took a job as a cashier at the grocery store to help tide us over until he found work again, this time as a manager in another factory instead of just working on the line. That was Mom; always an optimist, always willing to pitch in and do whatever was needed, all the time truly believing that things would work out in the end.

Mom was also a fantastic friend. She always saw the good in people, and if she saw the bad, she certainly didn't gossip about it. If you needed her, she was there and asking what she could do to help. I remember how she helped Mrs. Johnson get back and forth to work one week when her car was in the shop. When her best friend Mary needed a new pair of glasses and didn't have quite enough money, Mom insisted on loaning her the rest. Mom was there for all the highs and lows of her friends' lives, and I think the size of the gathering here is a testament to how much they all loved her.

Mention of Family

As much as I'd like to think I was Mom's favorite child, I know she truly didn't have one. We were all her favorite in one way or another. She always used to talk about what a wonderful artist our sister Ellie is. Our eldest brother Mark was her dependable child. She said God had "built Mark solid," and she was thankful she could lean upon him if she needed to. She adored our brother Greg's sense of humor since it was so like her own. They shared many a private laugh together about things that went over the rest of our heads. Callie was her "quiet one." Mom said that whenever Callie was especially quiet, that meant she was thinking up a storm on the inside.

As for me, Mom always said I was the keeper of the family chronicles because of my habit of journaling every night before I went to bed. She'd come in to say goodnight, and I'd let her read the day's entry. I think that must have been what inspired her request that I speak to you all today.

As you all know, Mom had a great deal of faith and rarely missed Sunday Mass. One hymn was her particular favorite, and I remember how she used to light up whenever Be Not Afraid was sung at Mass. She truly believed that she could "pass through raging waters in the sea and not drown" because God was with her the entire time. I know that's how she felt about her battle with cancer. She knew that even if cancer won, God would be there with her to carry her safely to Heaven. In honor of Mom's faith and her life, I'd like us all to sing that hymn together now...

Eulogy Speech Example for a Child

The death of a child rocks the very foundation of people's view of the world as a good place. Use the sample below to help you pull together something appropriate yet touching.

Thank you all for joining us here today, although I'm sure many of us wish we were gathering in celebration rather than in mourning. My name is Julie. I am Lisa's aunt, and I'll be speaking on behalf of Lisa's parents, my sister Gwen and her husband Mike.

I remember the day Lisa was born. She was the most beautiful little baby you could ever hope to see, and she was an especially wonderful blessing to Gwen and Mike who had struggled for years to have a family. With this one child, all their prayers had been answered.

Lisa was by all accounts an easy baby to raise. She was sleeping through the night by the time she was three months old, and she had a naturally happy disposition. Anytime someone new would enter the room, baby Lisa would give a great big smile and stretch out her arms to offer a welcoming hug. Of course, this instantly endeared her to everyone who ever came in contact with her. Lisa was definitely meant to bring love into this world for the all-too-short time we would have with her.

In light of how desperately Lisa was wanted and loved by her parents, as well as everyone here today, it's difficult to understand why her life had to end so soon. It's nearly inconceivable that God would allow a young child to become ill and suffer, let alone die. When you look at it that way, it's easy to be angry at God for taking back the gift He gave. I choose to look at it another way.

God saw how dearly Mike and Gwen wanted to know the joy of having a child of their own, and even though it might not have been meant to be, he gave Lisa to their keeping for a short time so they could know that joy. When Lisa became ill and her suffering was too much to bear, he scooped her up to Heaven, and all her suffering was gone. I believe she now waits patiently for the day when her parents will join her, and they will all live happily together once again. I believe that she would want us all to dwell on the happy times we shared with her, and let the sad memories fade.

At this time, I'd like to offer you all the opportunity to share some of your favorite memories of Lisa's brief life.

Tips for How to Write a Eulogy Speech

A eulogy is a final favor to the deceased, revealing the best parts of their life to the people who loved them. Highlight the person's life instead of focusing on how you feel about the loss.

Basic Eulogy Outline

Eulogies need not be long; the average length is between three and five minutes. You don't want to overwhelm those in attendance by speaking any longer than this. The key here is to be honest with your feelings and thoughts.

A eulogy should include:

  • Give your personal sentiments
  • Discuss happier times with the deceased person; include anecdotes and real-life experiences (avoid anything that might be considered offensive or vulgar)
  • Describe the person's character
  • Talk about family and friends left behind
  • Close with a memorable poem or traditional funeral song

You should always draft a copy of your speech and, if possible, rehearse it in front of someone. Make sure you print a copy of the eulogy and give a second copy to someone who can act as a backup in case you get sick or are overcome with emotion.

Ideas for Funeral Eulogy Content

Don't try to write the eulogy in the order that you'll give it. It's easier to begin by jotting down your thoughts about various aspects of the deceased's life. Think about the following points and see if anything springs to mind. If it does, write that now, and then you can put things in the order you want them later.

  • A short introduction about yourself and relationship to the person who died
  • A brief biography of the deceased person
  • Information about his or her career
  • Remarks about his or her family, friends and pets
  • List of achievements
  • Favorite songs or poems
  • Information about hobbies or interests
  • Personal stories or anecdotes
  • Memories from years gone by

Delivering the Speech at a Funeral

Funerals and memorials are very difficult times. It's okay to cry and share your emotions while delivering your tribute . However, don't try to memorize your speech. It's best to keep your notes in outline form or on note cards for reference to help you stay on track and to ensure that you cover all the key points that you plan to bring up.

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7 tips from celebrants on writing a great funeral speech 0.

Eulogy examples: a microphone in front of a blurred background

Giving a funeral speech can be a nerve-wracking experience. Public speaking isn’t everyone’s forte — and there’s always the question of what you should (and shouldn’t) say.

So, what makes a great speech at a funeral? We spoke to four experienced celebrants — people who write and deliver eulogies professionally — to get their top tips on writing a funeral speech that feels right.

How to write a funeral speech, according to real celebrants

We spoke to Clive, Melanie, Kate and Adrienne for their tips on writing a brilliant funeral speech.

Work out the length

“A five-minute speech would typically be 600 to 650 words,” says Clive Pashley, from Premier Celebrants. Most people talk at a rate of about 125 words a minute, he explains. But the more nervous you are, the faster you’ll speak.

If you get to choose how long your speech will be, ask for only as much time as you can manage. “Remember: you’re grieving, and the longer you’re up there, the harder it gets,” says Melanie Sopp, celebrant and interfaith minister. “Even two minutes can feel like an eternity.”

Choose a topic

“Start by sorting out what the theme is,” says Adrienne Hodgson-Hoy, a celebrant from East Yorkshire. “What do you actually want to get people to understand, what is the whole basis of the speech?”

  • Eulogies are where you tell the life story of the person who has died, from beginning to end.
  • Tributes are typically shorter — 5-minute speeches on a treasured memory, anecdote, or theme from the person’s life.

“When you’re talking about somebody’s life, you talk about their passions: follow what they loved and what their strengths were,” says Kate Mitchell, who leads ceremonies in the South East. Eulogies follow a certain pattern (from birth to death), so it’s simply a case of pulling out those key moments that really reveal something.

For tributes, Melanie recommends writing about “things that mean something to you — whether it’s a personal memory, an anecdote, gratitude, or acknowledging somebody’s courage in the face of a long illness.” Family gatherings, holidays and first meetings are all good starting points for a funeral speech.

“ The most important thing is to tell the truth as you see it,”

Follow your instincts

Not sure what to say in a funeral speech? Go with your gut.

“Just sit down and write what’s in your head, even if it’s a jumbled mess,” says Melanie. “Then go back through it to revise it and pick out what needs to be said on the day.”

Clive adds: “Don’t second guess yourself. If you think of a memory and it feels right, it’s important to you and it’s something that you shared — and if you think your friend or loved one would like you to share it — then I would go ahead and include it.”

Be even-handed

“Make sure your speech is as unbiased as possible,” says Adrienne. “Gather information from different parts of the family, so you actually get an accurate picture of what happened and what [the person who has died] was like.”

To get the information you need for your funeral speech, you may have to put your own opinions to one side. “Don’t be argumentative when you are taking the information, and don’t put your viewpoint first,” Adrienne stresses.

Clive agrees. “Some people use their time at the microphone to try and settle a score or get one up on someone. That’s obviously a real no-no,” he says, adding that such funeral speeches can be “excruciatingly embarrassing.”

Be honest — even about the difficult bits

Talking about someone with a complicated or difficult history? All our celebrants agreed on one thing: not to flinch away from talking about it.

Person leaning against a fence by a lake

“That doesn’t mean a litany of things that they did wrong — and it doesn’t have to be the gory details. It’s about telling the truth but being kind.”

“Acknowledge that they did have issues,” says Adrienne. “I lead a funeral service once for someone who was an alcoholic, and the family said that yes, he had issues with alcohol, and he tried to turn away from it, but unfortunately the issue was too big a problem for him to overcome. There are tactful ways of saying these things.”

Honesty can be cathartic. Melanie gave a difficult eulogy for her father and says that the experience was “Liberating. It was an honest account of that relationship. I don’t regret it.”

Remember, it’s not all about you

Man and woman at a funeral

“Just be careful not to make it too centred on yourself, and make sure it really does focus on the person who’s passed away,” says Clive.

When talking about others, specific names also are important, he stresses. “Try to avoid saying ‘we’ or ‘they’ unless it’s obvious who you’re referring to. Otherwise, it can be a little ambiguous and hard to follow.”

Don’t be flowery, be specific

A lot of people feel that since a funeral is a serious occasion, funeral speeches should use serious, impressive language. Not so, say our celebrants.

“If their name was David, but they were known as Dave, call them Dave! Keep it personal,” says Adrienne.

“Don’t try and be clever and write flowery phases! Everybody thinks that they need to, but someone isn’t suddenly different because they died,” Kate explains. “If you can be specific, and base your speech on real things that happened, that’s best.”

“The songs you used to listen to together, the ways he used to stir his tea — those are the sorts of details that are specific to that person, and that’s what makes a great eulogy.”

For more inspiration…

For more ideas on things to say in a funeral speech, you can’t go wrong with our article on  funeral speech examples . It’s filled with touching and sometimes even funny eulogies from real people.

Feeling nervous about an upcoming funeral speech? We followed up with Melanie, Clive, Adrienne and Kate to find out how to overcome your jitters. Check out their tips and tricks here.

  Meet the celebrants

Clive Pashley started Premier Celebrants with his friend, James Greely, in 2016. They were later joined by Rachel Nussey. He and his team offer professional and bespoke funeral service planning across the Midlands.

Rev. Melanie Sopp is a celebrant and interfaith minister, working across the Midlands and the South coast. Melanie runs the excellent Celebrant Academy, which trains celebrants to create ceremonies and lead services of all kinds.

Adrienne Hodgson-Hoy was inspired to become a celebrant after losing her husband. Now, she leads unique, personal funeral services across Hull and East Yorkshire. With a friend, Adrienne runs Memories of Me, a service that allows people to plan their own funeral services.

Kate Mitchell is a creative independent celebrant working in the South East: her stomping grounds include Kent, Surrey and Sussex. As well as funerals, Kate leads thoughtful wedding and baby-naming ceremonies.

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9 Creative Ways to Remember Someone Who Has Died 0

Ways to remember someone who has died

When you lose someone, one of the scariest things about it is the idea that you might forget them. Or that the memory of losing them will overshadow the happier times you spent together.  The good news is this: you won’t forget them, ever. We promise. And there are ways of remembering someone who has died that can help you celebrate all the great things about them. Here are some suggestions…

9 special things to do to remember someone who has died

Not sure how to remember someone who has died ? We hope you’ll find some inspiration here.

Start a tradition for their birthday

Find something that helps you feel close to them, and do it each year. For example, you could:

  • Do something your loved one liked to do
  • Take a trip to a place that meant something to you both
  • Have a big family dinner and raise a toast – and invite their close friends
  • Light a candle for them in the evening

Build on what you know about them. Take a class in something they knew well. Go on their favourite dog walk. Take the day off and make all their favourite foods.

“My sister and I go to a 40s event on Mum’s birthday each year,” explains Rachel, a funeral arranger at our Aylesbury branch. “She was a child of the 40s, and it helps us remember how life would have been for her growing up.”

Talk to them

Japanese wind telephone

While this might feel a little odd at first, a lot of people find comfort in these talks. After the 2011 tsunami in Japan, one bereaved relative set up a disconnected ‘wind telephone’ in his garden so that he could talk to the family he lost. Since then, people from all over the area have come to talk to their loved ones.

Take a trip 

Go somewhere your loved one always wanted to go, do something they always wanted to do. A once-in-a-lifetime trip can be a fantastic way for a family to heal together after a rough year.

Keep something of theirs close by

Ash Glass Design's cremation glass mourning ring

Another (slightly more unusual) way of remembering someone special who has died is to get their ashes made into jewellery. Specialist craftspeople can suspend the ashes in glass or resin beads and place them in pendants, earrings, bracelets or rings. 

Go big with a firework display

A memorial fireworks display can be a lovely way to remember someone special. Team it with plenty of friends and family, some of your loved one’s favourite music, and some toasty hot drinks for a unique and cosy celebration of life.

The important thing here is safety. Always buy your fireworks from a registered seller or licenced shop and check that they are suitable for home use. Make sure bystanders are standing back as far as is recommended for that firework. You can find more safety advice here.

What about balloon, lantern, butterfly and dove launches? Here, it’s important to do your research to minimise the impact on local wildlife and pets. Always use biodegradable materials.

Get something dedicated to them

Not sure if the traditional park bench is the best way of remembering someone who has died ? There are all kinds of alternatives…

  • For lovers of the performing arts, you can dedicate theatre, opera, or concert hall seats
  • Football ground seats are a great way to remember fans of the beautiful game
  • For music lovers, you can call in to your local radio station and dedicate their favourite song to them on their birthday
  • You can get a rose named in memory of someone special , and give cuttings to family and friends
  • Or dedicate a tree (or an acre of woodland ) to them with the Woodland Trust

Write to them

Writing a letter to remember someone who has died

Not much of a letter writer? You’re not alone. When writer Rax King tweeted about the emails she sent her dad after he died, thousands of other people came forward to say that they did the same. Or sent texts, or g-chat messages.  While it’s best not to actually press ‘send’ on these (numbers can be reallocated to other people, email accounts closed) just the act of writing can bring comfort. 

Support a cause that mattered to them

Is there a cause your loved one cared deeply about that you could support? Or would you like to raise money for a charity that fights their final illness, or supports families like yours?

One of the best ways to remember someone who has died is to build something positive with their legacy. You could…

  • Set up an online crowdfunding obituary that asks friends and family to donate
  • Organise a fundraiser or do a charity run to raise money
  • Sign up to donate a small amount each month in their memory
  • Set up a scholarship or endowment at their old school, college or uni
  • Launch a charitable trust or foundation of your own to lobby for a cause
  • Sponsor a child (or even an animal) through a charity

Visit their grave or scattering place

Forget-me-not flowers

If you like, you can also bring a wreath, bouquet or (land owner permitting) something to plant.  In Victorian times, people would often use flowers to send messages: each one had a special meaning. This old mourning custom is still a lovely way to express how you feel. E.g. rosemary for remembrance, white periwinkle for happy memories, an oak-leaved geranium for true friendship or marigolds for grief. 

Then again, a bouquet of your loved one’s favourites is an equally thoughtful gesture. At natural burial grounds, where planting rules are strict, a scattering of native wildflowers can also be a beautiful way to remember someone who has died.

Share your favourite ways to remember someone who has died

How do you remember the special people you’ve lost? Share your suggestions with other bereaved families in the comment section below. We’d love to hear your stories.

10 Funny Funeral Poems for an Uplifting Service 0

Michael Ashby's A Long Cup of Tea, a funny funeral poem

‘Funny funeral poems’ might sound like a bit of a contradiction. But humour isn’t always out of place at a farewell. When we celebrate someone’s life, we celebrate all of it, all of the best things about them — and that can mean laughter as well as sadness.

Here, we’ve gathered together 10 popular funny funeral poems to inspire you. We hope you’ll find something your loved one would have giggled at.

Pardon Me For Not Getting Up by Kelly Roper

There’s puns galore in this poem by Kelly Roper, writer and hospice volunteer. It’s a popular light-hearted reading, especially in funerals for people who were always taking care of others.

Told from the perspective of someone who has died, Pardon Me For Not Getting Up asks funeral guests to excuse them from hosting this time — and asks them to go ahead and celebrate their life nevertheless.

  A Long Cup of Tea by Michael Ashby

Michael Ashby's A Long Cup of Tea, a funny funeral poem

Is this the most British funeral poem of all time? Perhaps. Full of sly jokes (‘Please pick the biggest mug you can find / Size really does matter at this time’) Michael Ashby’s funeral poem is perfect for someone who loved to kick back with a cuppa. And who doesn’t?

The Busman’s Prayer by Anon

The Busman's Prayer, one of our top 10 funny funeral poems

You can, of course, also write your own. Simply swap out the London locations for local landmarks with a similar sound.

Death by Joe Brainard

This wry, matter-of-fact poem by Joe Brainard has a lot of simple truth in it. And some very black humour. Noting that visualising death might help us not to be afraid, he adds:

“Try to visualize, for example, someone sneaking up behind your back and hitting you over the head with a giant hammer.”

If your friend or relative was a straightforward sort of person with an appreciation for the darker variety of jokes, this could be the one.

Warning by Jenny Joseph

Jenny Joseph's Warning, one of the best funny funeral poems for mums.

It’s also an excellent message for us all: don’t let respectability get in the way of doing all the (silly) things that make you happy.

On a Tired Housewife by Anon

This anonymous poem has something of a dark backstory. But it’s now one of the nation’s favourite comic poems.

In it, the reader explains that after a lifetime of hard work, she’s actually looking forward to a restful eternal sleep. This makes it one of the more fitting funny funeral poems for a friend or parent who was always busy looking after their family.

Untitled jisei by Moriya Sen’an

A jisei (death poem) by Moriya Sen'an

Death by Sean Hughes

This poem, which describes Sean Hughes’ idea of a good funeral, is ideal for any ‘celebration of life’ style funeral service.

With free drinks and new friendships being forged, it actually does sound like a great way to send someone off. The poem was in fact read at Hughes’ own funeral.

I Didn’t Go To Church Today by Ogden Nash

I Didn't Go to Church Today, one of our top 10 funny funeral poems by Ogden Nash

Although light-hearted, the poem does have comfort for those at a funeral. As Nash shares, God will likely understand. After all, ‘He knows when I am said and done / We’ll have plenty of time together’.

Last Will and Testament by Will Scratchmann

Last Will and Testament by Will Scratchmann, one of the best funny funeral poems

One last note on funny funeral poems…

Giving a ‘funny’ reading at a funeral can be a bit nerve-wracking. What if it goes down badly? The best thing to ask yourself is what the person who has died would have thought. Does the poem sound like them? Is it something they might have found funny? After all, the day is all about them. And if you need advice on public speaking, take a look at our top tips from funeral celebrants.

Didn’t find the right funeral poem today? Not to worry. We have a round up of 33 beautiful non-religious funeral poems here to help you in your search.

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Writing and giving a eulogy at your loved one’s funeral

Last updated: 22 April 2022

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Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay

What is a eulogy?

A eulogy, or funeral speech, is a speech given at a funeral by someone who knew the person who has died. If you are asked to give one, it is an opportunity to pay tribute to the person, by giving a short speech about their life and what they meant to you. It’s regarded as an honour to be asked to give a eulogy for a loved one or friend and if you’ve been asked, a sign that you played an important part in that person’s life. If you’re feeling anxious about the responsibility of getting it ‘right,’ remember that every eulogy is meant to be unique. Although there are guidelines you can follow, writing a eulogy is also about things that come from the heart.

  • Speak with relatives and loved ones of the person who has died, think about your own experiences with them.
  • Give yourself time to write and edit down your eulogy to the most appropriate parts. There’s no one size fits all approach to writing a eulogy. Every person is unique so every eulogy will be unique as well. You will have to think a lot about the type of person you are eulogising and how best to communicate that to the people who have come to mourn them.
  • When and where they were born
  • The names of their close family
  • How they met their spouse or partner
  • Any military service
  • Favourite poems, songs or quotes
  • Sporting achievements
  • Anything they have contributed to the community
  • Clubs and society memberships
  • Once you have gathered enough information, you may want to make notes about where each bit will fit in your eulogy, so you have a rough beginning, a middle and an end to work towards.
  • After you have determined what you want to say, it’s a good idea to practise giving your eulogy. Many people struggle with public speaking, so you are not alone. Read it out loud, either on your own or in front of a trusted friend or family member.
  • Speak slowly. Everyone wants to hear the words you have prepared. Pause for thought. There may be certain points in the eulogy that deserve a moment of silence for contemplation, or a particular story which makes the audience laugh. Give people eye contact. This may be difficult, but if you mention a close family member by name you may want to scan the first row to make them feel included. Try to stand still. It can be difficult not to fidget when you are nervous, but tapping fingers or feet can distract people from what you are saying.

Who gives a eulogy at a funeral?

Usually the one chosen to give a eulogy at a funeral is someone close to the person who has died. Often children will give a eulogy at their parents' funerals and husbands or wives will give a eulogy at their partners’ funerals. Sometimes the occasion might be too overwhelming for the person closest to them to perform a eulogy, and they may ask another loved one to give a eulogy in their place.

What is the purpose of a eulogy?

The eulogy at a funeral is a way for someone who is close to the person who has died to sum up their life, remind people who have come to mourn about the character of that person, and pay respect to them.

What should be included in a eulogy?

A eulogy can include anything that you think is important. You may want to keep it mostly fact-based, written in chronological order with a small personal note of remembrance at the end. Or, you could base it on personal anecdotes and stories that capture the personality of your loved one. These might even be more lighthearted anecdotes, which often helps the assembly feel more at ease. If you think that a certain story is the most appropriate, as someone close to the person who has died, you’re probably right. Your own and other people’s memories could not only provide things to talk about, but inspire a way of summing up at the beginning and end of the eulogy who they were and what they meant.

Why is a eulogy important?

Hearing a eulogy gives people a way of remembering the important parts of the person they’ve come to mourn. A well written eulogy should not only sum up a person’s life, character and impact, but if possible, it should shed light on less well known aspects of that person.

Examples of a eulogy - what to say

Here are some examples of what you could say in a eulogy: “John was a dedicated family man, who was always there when you needed him.” “Seeing so many people here to say goodbye to Helen today, shows just how loved she was and how much she will be missed.” One of the best ways to begin a eulogy is to talk to family members and close friends about the person who has died. Is there anything that they would like you to include or mention, or a favourite anecdote or story they’d like you to share? Looking through photos could provide inspiration for thoughts about them and things that happened in their life. You may also get inspiration from obituaries and tributes shared online and on social media.

How to get your ideas for a Eulogy together

Mood board – this is a type of collage that can include pictures, text and materials arranged in any order you like. Try adding a photo of your loved one, post-it notes with sayings or phrases written on them, key dates such as marriages or births, maps with important locations marked. This visual reminder of things you want to say about the person who has died may help you as you consider how to write a eulogy. Timeline – there are no rules for writing a eulogy, so you don’t have to get everything in order or precisely dated. But constructing a timeline of the person’s most significant life moments may help you to better decide what to include in your speech. Key words – make a list of words to describe the person. Think of as many words as you can and then highlight which words you think are most fitting. This list can act as a helpful prompt if you become stuck while writing a eulogy.

How long should a eulogy be?

Normally, a eulogy will be around three to five minutes long and take no longer than ten minutes. As to how many words a eulogy should be, that may depend on how quickly you talk. A funeral eulogy of between 500 and 1000 written words will take from around three and a half to seven and a half minutes to speak. Some funeral venues allocate a specific period of time for a funeral. The funeral director should be able to advise you, if you ask how long a eulogy should last, as part of the order of service.

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Eulogy writing guide, funeral speeches for a work colleague, tribute speech to dad from daughter, funeral speech writing advice, tribute message to a dead friend.

  • January 25, 2024

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Tribute Message To A Dead Friend Table of Contents

Tribute message to a dead friend example 1, tribute message to a dead friend example 2, tribute message to a dead friend example 3, eulogy assistant: your guide in honoring memories, tribute message to a dead friend frequently asked questions.

Losing a friend is one of the hardest experiences that we go through. Our friends play such an essential role in our lives, providing support, laughter, and unforgettable memories. When a friend passes away, it can leave a deep hole that can't be easily filled. One way to honour the memory of a departed friend is by writing a heartfelt tribute message that captures the essence of your friendship and the positive impact they had on your life. In this article, we will delve into the process of crafting a tribute message to a dead friend, incorporating a realistic example and concluding with a call to action encouraging you to try out our Eulogy Assistant software.

As you begin to draft a tribute message to your deceased friend, it's essential to take a moment to reflect on the special bond you shared. Think about the moments that defined your friendship and brought you closer together. Was it a shared love of music, sports, or food? Did you have a favourite inside joke that never failed to make you both laugh? Perhaps there was a specific event that solidified the understanding of how much you meant to each other.

Once you've spent some time reminiscing about the highlights of your friendship, it's time to start piecing together your tribute message. A good place to start is by considering the following points:

1. Acknowledge the loss

Begin by expressing your sadness over the passing of your friend, acknowledging the pain you feel and the void left by their absence.

2. Express gratitude

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Talk about the impact your friend had on your life, and express your gratitude for the time, love, and care they shared with you. This could include a brief overview of your friendship or the character traits you admired most in your friend.

3. Share memories

Share some special memories of your friend, making sure to provide specific details that capture the essence of who they were as an individual and the moments that mattered most to you.

4. Offer comfort

If your tribute message will be shared with others, try to provide words of comfort that can help those who are also grieving. For example, you might remind them that although your friend is gone, their spirit lives on through cherished memories, and they will never be forgotten.

A Journey Through Time

To the family and friends gathered today,

Losing [Friend’s Name] feels like having a page torn from the book of my life. A chapter that was filled with laughter, shared secrets, unforgettable adventures, and a bond that transcended mere friendship.

I first met [Friend’s Name] during our school days. On the surface, we seemed like an unlikely pair – me, the introverted bookworm, and [Friend’s Name], the spirited whirlwind with a zest for life. Yet, as time unraveled, it was evident that our differences were the glue that held us together. While I provided a calming anchor, [Friend’s Name] was the sail that propelled us into countless escapades.

Remembering our teenage years, I recall the summer when we decided to embark on a cross-country trip with just a backpack and a shared bicycle. It was a testament to [Friend’s Name]'s infectious enthusiasm that what began as a mere joke became one of the most memorable experiences of our lives. We battled rainstorms, got lost more times than I can count, but through it all, [Friend’s Name]'s spirit remained unbroken. Every hurdle was met with laughter and an unwavering belief in the journey.

But our bond wasn't just about adventures; it was about the quiet moments too. Those late-night conversations when the world was asleep, and it was just the two of us, pondering life's mysteries, sharing our dreams, fears, and hopes. It was during these moments that I truly got to know the depth of [Friend’s Name]'s soul. Beneath the vibrant exterior was a compassionate heart, an introspective mind, and a spirit that sought to make a difference in the world.

Over the years, life took us in different directions. Careers, families, and responsibilities meant we couldn't spend as much time together as we once did. Yet, the bond remained unaltered. A simple text, a brief call, or an unexpected visit was enough to bridge the gap of time and distance.

[Friend’s Name]'s sudden departure has left a void, a silence that is deafening. But in the midst of this grief, I choose to focus on the legacy left behind. A legacy of joy, of embracing each day as a gift, and of treasuring the bonds we form.

In [Friend’s Name], I didn't just find a friend; I found a confidante, a partner-in-crime, a beacon of light in my darkest moments. Today, as we mourn the physical absence, let us also celebrate the spirit that continues to live on in our memories.

Goodbye, dear friend. Our paths will cross again. Until then, I carry you in my heart, cherishing every moment we shared.

A Symphony of Memories

The beauty of life is not in its permanence, but in the memories we create, the laughter we share, and the bonds we forge. Today, as I stand here, my heart is heavy with grief but also brimming with gratitude for having had [Friend’s Name] in my life.

Ours was a friendship that began over a shared love for music. I still vividly remember that winter evening when we stumbled upon each other at a local concert. Our initial conversation about our favorite bands quickly morphed into a deep dive into life, dreams, and everything in between. That evening, a lifelong bond was forged.

[Friend’s Name] had an uncanny ability to find beauty in the mundane. Be it a random street musician, the chirping of birds at dawn, or the rhythm of raindrops on a tin roof – [Friend’s Name] found music in the most unexpected places. And in doing so, taught me to appreciate life's simple pleasures.

Our bond grew stronger over shared playlists, impromptu jam sessions, and concerts. But beyond the realm of music, it was [Friend’s Name]'s unwavering support that stood out. Through heartbreaks, professional challenges, and personal dilemmas, [Friend’s Name] was my sounding board, offering advice, a shoulder to cry on, and more often than not, a song that perfectly captured the moment.

There were moments of disagreement, of course. Like the time when we passionately debated over the best rock band of all time. But even in disagreement, there was respect, understanding, and an underlying love that transcended differences.

The news of [Friend’s Name]'s passing feels like a discordant note in the symphony of life. But in this moment of profound grief, I am reminded of a quote by Leo Buscaglia, "Don't brood. Get on with living and loving. You don't have forever."

[Friend’s Name]'s life, though short, was a testament to this philosophy. A life filled with love, laughter, music, and memories. And as we bid farewell, let's remember the joy, the songs, and the moments that made [Friend’s Name]'s journey so special.

Dear [Friend’s Name], you were the melody that enriched my life. And though you've moved on to a different realm, your music will forever echo in my heart.

Here is a realistic example of what a tribute message to a dead friend might look like:

"My dear friend [Friend's Name], I still can't believe you're gone. The world seems a bit emptier without your infectious laughter and your incredible kindness. I feel so blessed to have called you my friend, and I am forever grateful for the precious time we spent together.

From our marathon movie nights with endless bowls of popcorn to the time we spent hours trying to recreate our favourite dish from that hole-in-the-wall restaurant, there was never a dull moment with you. Your passion for life and your unwavering support are truly unmatched. I will cherish every memory we created together.

To those grieving the loss of [Friend's Name], please take comfort in knowing that they live on through our stories, laughter, and the love they shared with all of us. Their light will never be snuffed out, for their spirit remains alive in our hearts."

Writing a tribute message to a dead friend is a poignant way to honour their memory and express your love and appreciation for the relationship you shared. The process of reflecting on your friendship and celebrating your friend's life can provide you with a sense of peace and solace during this difficult time.

Tailored Support in Creating Heartfelt Eulogies

As you approach the solemn act of saying goodbye, articulating the depth of your feelings can be as elusive as capturing the essence of a fleeting dream. The task of paying tribute to a spiritual leader through a eulogy requires not just words, but a tapestry woven from respect, love, and authenticity. Eulogy Assistant is here to guide you in this delicate task, providing a haven where homage and eloquence converge, transforming recollections into timeless tributes.

Our dedicated team, with their deep understanding of these profound moments, is here to assist you in composing a eulogy that reverberates with the noble grace that marked the priest's life. Eulogy Assistant is not merely a service; it is a companion in your journey, tenderly guiding you through the intertwined paths of remembrance and grief with empathy and insight.

Joint Efforts in Crafting a Tribute to the Priest's Legacy

At Eulogy Assistant , we champion the belief that collaboration is essential in creating a truly impactful eulogy. Your journey with us is one where your intimate memories and reflections are interwoven with our expertise, culminating in a tribute that stands as a testament to respect and admiration.

Our approach is an intricate blend of collaborative dialogue and creative unity, where your insights add depth and color to the portrayal of the priest's legacy. This cooperative venture not only commemorates the priest's spiritual journey and service but also celebrates the meaningful connections he established in life.

We join you as guardians of this legacy, crafting a narrative that encapsulates the priest's spirit - a narrative that goes beyond conventional tributes, into a realm that is respectful, personal, and deeply moving. Our collaboration turns a eulogy into a symphony of words, resonating with the love and reverence that the priest inspired in his lifetime.

Testimonials: Echoes of Gratitude from Eulogy Assistant Clients

The essence of our dedication and expertise is reflected in the heartfelt testimonials from those we have served. These stories of gratitude and appreciation from individuals who found comfort and support in our services are our greatest accolades.

"During my deepest moments of loss, Eulogy Assistant was my beacon of hope, aiding me in creating a homage that mirrored the depth and honor of my beloved priest," recounts Johnathan, who found solace and partnership in us.

Echoing these sentiments, Emily states, "The gentle guidance and skill of Eulogy Assistant were my solace, steering me through the intricacies of grief with dignity and reverence. The final eulogy was a heartfelt homage that vibrated with the love and respect we all felt for our cherished priest."

These testimonials stand as a testament to our commitment, a guiding light for us as we continue to offer a service that transcends expectations, where words become vessels of love, respect, and immortal memories. We are honored to be part of this journey, celebrating the legacies left behind and crafting eulogies that are timeless tributes to lives deeply loved and respected.

Join us in weaving narratives that resonate with honor and grace, paying tribute to the spiritual guides who have profoundly impacted our lives with their wisdom and compassion.

What is the Purpose of This Article?

The purpose of this article is to guide you through the process of writing a heartfelt and meaningful tribute message to a deceased friend. The aim is to help you convey your feelings and memories in a way that honors your friend's life and legacy.

What is a Tribute Message?

A tribute message is a speech, letter, or written piece that pays homage to the life of a person who has passed away. It serves as a way to honor their memory and acknowledge the impact they had on your life and the lives of others.

What Should Be Included in a Tribute Message?

A tribute message should include an introduction, the main body discussing your relationship with the deceased, and a conclusion. It might also include memorable anecdotes, shared experiences, and qualities that made your friend unique.

How Long Should a Tribute Message Be?

There's no hard and fast rule, but generally, a tribute message should be concise enough to be meaningful yet long enough to capture the essence of your friendship.

Can I Use Humor in the Tribute Message?

Yes, if your friendship was marked by humor and your friend appreciated it, humor can be a touching addition. However, be sensitive to the mood and setting where the tribute will be shared.

Is It Okay to Share Personal Stories?

Absolutely. Personal stories often capture the essence of the person more vividly than general praises can. Just ensure the stories are appropriate for the audience.

How Should I Begin the Tribute?

You could start by mentioning how you met your friend or by sharing a moment that encapsulates the essence of your friendship.

How Should I End the Tribute?

You might end with a meaningful quote that resonates with the friendship you had, or a simple thank you to your friend for the times you shared.

What Tone Should I Adopt?

The tone should be respectful and heartfelt, mirroring the kind of friendship you had.

Can I Share the Message on Social Media?

Yes, sharing your tribute message on social media can be a way for others to join in remembering and honoring your friend.

Should I Read the Tribute Aloud at a Memorial Service?

If you're comfortable doing so, reading your tribute aloud can be a powerful way to honor your friend's memory.

Can Someone Else Read My Tribute?

Certainly. If you find it too emotional to read the tribute yourself, you can ask another close friend or family member to read it on your behalf.

Should I Include Religious Texts or Verses?

If your friend was religious or if it provides you comfort, including religious texts can be appropriate.

Is It Okay to Write a Tribute if I Hadn't Spoken to My Friend in a Long Time?

Yes, the essence of your friendship isn't negated by the time that has passed. Your tribute can acknowledge the distance while cherishing the time when you were close.

What If My Emotions Overwhelm Me While Writing?

It's completely normal to be overwhelmed by emotions. Take your time. You may find that writing the tribute over a few days or weeks helps you manage your feelings.

Should I Edit the Tribute?

While the initial draft of your tribute message may be fueled by emotion, revisiting to edit and polish it can make the message even more powerful and coherent.

What If I Can't Find the Right Words?

Sometimes, emotions are too raw to put into words immediately. It's okay to take your time or even seek help from another friend who knew the deceased.

Can I Use a Poem as a Tribute?

Absolutely. If there's a poem that encapsulates your feelings or your friendship, feel free to include it.

Can I Write Multiple Tributes?

Certainly. You might find that one tribute doesn't capture all the facets of your friendship. Writing multiple tributes for different occasions or platforms is perfectly acceptable.

Should I Mention the Cause of Death?

This is a sensitive topic. If the cause of death is something that needs to be acknowledged as part of honoring your friend's life, it may be appropriate. However, exercise caution and sensitivity.

Can I Write a Tribute Even if I Couldn't Attend the Funeral?

Absolutely. Your tribute can still serve as a meaningful way to say goodbye and can be shared with others who are mourning the loss.

If you're struggling with crafting the perfect eulogy or need assistance in organizing your thoughts, Eulogy Assistant is here to help. Our intuitive and user-friendly platform can guide you through the process of creating a personalised and heartfelt eulogy that pays a beautiful tribute to your late friend. So why not give it a try as you begin to pen down the memories and emotions that you hold dear?

Looking For Examples? Here Are Some of The Best Eulogies

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How to write a Funeral speech

A funeral speech, also known as a eulogy, is a tribute or remembrance of the person who has passed away. It is typically given by a family member, close friend, or religious leader during the funeral or memorial service. The speech usually includes personal anecdotes, memories, and reflections on the life of the deceased. It is also common to include a message of comfort or hope for the bereaved. The length and style of the speech can vary depending on the occasion, but it is usually a heartfelt and personal tribute to the person who has died.

The purpose of a funeral speech is to celebrate the life of the deceased and to provide comfort and support to those who are grieving. It is also an opportunity for the speaker to express their feelings and say goodbye to the person who has passed away.

When giving a funeral speech, it is important to be prepared and to practice in advance. It is also important to be mindful of the audience and to consider their emotions and needs. It is also important to be mindful of the time and not to prolong the speech, allowing others to also speak and pay their respects.

Overall, a funeral speech is a way to pay tribute to the deceased and to provide comfort to those who are grieving. It is an important part of the funeral or memorial service and should be given with care and thoughtfulness.

•Begin by gathering information:  Start by gathering information, such as their life story, accomplishments, and any memorable experiences or stories you might want to share. If you are a family member you may want to talk to others in the family to get their input and ideas.

•Consider the audience:  Think about who will be attending the funeral or memorial service and what they might want to hear. What do you think would be most meaningful to them?

•Organize your thoughts:  Once you have gathered all of your information, start organizing it into a coherent structure. You might want to consider including an introduction, a body with several main points, and a conclusion.

•Write a draft:  Use your outline to write a draft of the eulogy. Keep in mind that you want to keep the tone respectful and appropriate for the occasion, and try to avoid using jargon or technical language that might be difficult for some people to understand.

•Edit and revise:  Once you have a draft of the eulogy, take some time to edit and revise it. Consider getting feedback from others, to make sure that it is clear, concise, and well-written.

•Practice:  It is a good idea to practice delivering the eulogy before the funeral or memorial service. This will help you feel more confident and comfortable when it is time to deliver it.

Writing and delivering a eulogy can be a challenging and emotional task, but it is also an opportunity to pay tribute to the life of the deceased and offer comfort and support. By following these steps and seeking support when needed, you can create a meaningful and memorable eulogy.

how to write a speech for someone who died

Create a Tribute for a Friend Who Passed Away

Coming to terms with the death of a dear friend can be one of the most difficult things to do. A heartfelt tribute can honor their life and bring solace, peace, and closure to the friends and family who are left behind.

Writing a tribute is a meaningful way to honor a friend’s life and memory. Through this process, we can recognize the positive impact they had on us and celebrate their life in an everlasting way.

What is a Tribute?

A tribute is a speech, poem, or song expressing admiration and gratitude for someone. It is often spoken of in the context of honoring a deceased person’s memory. A tribute can be given to friends, family members, colleagues, and mentors who have passed away. Writing a tribute to honor a friend who has passed away can be a powerful way to express love and appreciation for them.

Writing a tribute is a way to say goodbye, capture fond memories, and remember the good times shared with a departed friend. It can often provide comfort during this difficult time of grief. Here are some suggestions on how to write a meaningful tribute.

Choose Your Format

You don’t have to be a professional writer to write an effective tribute. Consider your friend’s life, hobbies, and interests when selecting the format for your tribute. Some examples of tributes may include stories, poems, songs, letters, or eulogies.

Tell Your Story

When writing your tribute consider sharing a meaningful story about your friend. This could be a funny memory, an inspiring moment, or even a cherished dream that your friend shared with you.

Include Meaningful Quotes

Quotes are an excellent way to pay homage and remember the impact that your friend had on your life. Think of meaningful quotes from literature, songs, and movies that you can use to emphasize your tribute.

Meaningful Quotes to Honor a Friend Who Has Passed

Quotes can provide beautiful language to honor fallen friends in a meaningful way. The right quote can celebrate the positive impact that the person had on your life. Quotes such as these can be a good way to reflect on the time spent together and can bring peace and comfort to those mourning the death of a friend.

“The loss of a good friend is like losing a part of yourself. You never forget them, no matter where life takes you.” – Unknown

“Grief is only the memory of love. Where there is great grief there is great love.” – Unknown

“In the night of death, hope sees a star, and listening love can hear the rustle of a wing.” – Robert Ingersoll

“When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.” – Unknown

“When someone you love dies, it’s like a part of you has died. But our loved ones live on in the memories we treasure.” – Unknown

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.” – Unknown

“Goodbyes are not forever; goodbyes are not the end; they simply mean I’ll miss you until we meet again.” – Palitha Ariyarathna

“The death of a beloved is an amputation.” – C.S. Lewis

“We must embrace pain and burn it as fuel for our journey.” – Kenji Miyazawa

“For life and death are one, even as the river and the sea are one.” – Kahlil Gibran

“Memories are a treasure, no one can steal. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal.” – Unknown (from an Irish headstone)

“As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now part of us, as we remember them.” – Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer

What to Say to Honor a Friend Who Passed Away

When honoring a departed friend, expressing your respects doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some basic phrases and words you can use in your tribute to honor the memory of your friend.

“Your life was one of selflessness and love. You will always be remembered.”

“Your service to our community and your spirit of kindness will never be forgotten.”

“You were an inspiration, and a role model to many. You will be greatly missed.”

“Your courage and strength stood as an example to all. Your legacy will live on in our hearts.”

“We thank you for the time we had together, and all that you shared with us.”

“Your dedication and commitment to helping others will always be remembered.”

“You were a light in our lives and we will always be grateful for the moments we shared.”

“Your unwavering spirit and passion will remain forever in our souls.”

“Your generous heart, your deep insight, and wisdom will stay with us always.”

“Your life was a blessing, your memory will remain in our hearts.”

“We are deeply saddened by your loss, but grateful for the time we had together.”

“Our beloved friend, you may have left us far too soon, but your loving presence will endure forever in our hearts and souls.”

“We will keep the memory of you alive by cherishing the moments we spent together and remembering your legacy always.”

“We honor and cherish your memory, our beloved friend.”

“May your spirit live on forever in our hearts and souls.”

“Rest in peace, beloved friend. You are gone but never forgotten.”

Remember to keep in mind the particular words and phrases that were special to your friend as you prepare a tribute. By expressing your respect with personalized language, you can honor the memory of someone who had a positive impact on your life.

How to Express Condolences to Someone Who Has Lost a Friend

No matter what the circumstances may be, expressing sympathy to someone who has lost a friend can be difficult. You may not know how your words will be received, so it’s important to keep your message simple and sincere, such as in these examples.

“May our grief be replaced by cherished memories that will never fade away.”

“May these words bring solace during this sorrowful time of mourning.”

“They will always remain close in our hearts forever.”

“No matter how much time passes, the memories shared between us and our lost friends will never fade away.”

“No matter how much time passes, the love and friendship of those we have lost will remain close in spirit and in our hearts forever.”

Here are some additional tips to help you express your condolences in a meaningful way.

Acknowledge the Loss

Acknowledging the loss of a loved one is an important part of showing your support. An expression such as “I am so sorry for your loss” can go a long way.

Offer Support

Along with expressing your sympathy, you should also offer support to the bereaved. It can be helpful to remind them that they are not alone and that you are there for them if they need anything.

Share a Memory

Share a memory of the person who passed away with the bereaved. This can help to honor the departed and bring comfort to those grieving.

Be Available

While you don’t necessarily have to be present at a funeral or other services, it can be helpful to let the bereaved know that you are available if they need anything.

Express Gratitude

Acknowledging the deceased’s impact on your life can be a meaningful way to show support. Letting the bereaved know how grateful you are for their loved one’s influence in your life can be comforting.

Offer a Gesture

If you are comfortable, offering a gesture such as flowers or a donation to a charity in memory of the deceased can be appreciated by the bereaved.

If you follow these tips, you can create a meaningful tribute to the life of your friend. Showing support during difficult times is an important part of being there for someone who has lost a loved one.

By taking the time to express your condolences in a thoughtful and caring way, you can offer comfort and solace to a grieving friend.

A Heartfelt Tribute is Powerful

A tribute is an acknowledgment that brings solace and peace in times of grief and sorrow. Though it is never easy to say goodbye, a heartfelt tribute to a friend who has passed away can provide comfort, strength, and solace during a difficult time of mourning. A good tribute can honor a departed friend’s contributions and the impact made on our lives, commemorate cherished memories of times shared together, and keep their spirit alive in our minds and hearts.

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How to Write a Eulogy for a Friend Who Died Suddenly

Updated 08/17/2023

Published 10/30/2019

Sam Tetrault, BA in English

Sam Tetrault, BA in English

Contributing writer

Learn how to craft a eulogy for a friend who died suddenly, including tips on getting started and sample eulogies to inspire you.

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

You may find it challenging to complete even the simplest task following the death of a good friend. Grief can turn the mind to mush, and unexpected grief can often be paralyzing. So if you were asked to write a eulogy for a friend, we're here to help you craft the speech that honors their life.

Jump ahead to these sections: 

  • How to Write a Eulogy for a Friend

Short Eulogy Examples for a Friend Who Died Suddenly

Whether you were asked to write the eulogy or you volunteered, the writing process may help you more than you would have ever imagined. By writing a eulogy for a friend, you will have a chance to reflect on a life well-lived and honor the memory of your loved one.

This guide will help you write a eulogy for a friend. If you need help with some of the other tasks associated with death, as well as with grief and complicated family dynamics, our post-loss checklist can help.

How to Write Your Eulogy for a Friend

Image with tips for writing a eulogy for a friend

You can think of a eulogy as a way to say goodbye to a loved one. In the case of a friend who died suddenly, this is a way to express your final thoughts and bring closure to yourself and your loved ones. Usually, funerals and memorial services include the eulogy, but you can also write one privately. 

Finding the right words to say might feel intimidating, especially right after the passing of a loved one. Here are some tips for writing a eulogy for a friend who died suddenly. 

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1. Understand the purpose of eulogies

First, it’s helpful to understand the real purpose of eulogies. Yes, your eulogy is about the deceased, but it’s for the audience. Eulogies are a way to bring peace to loved ones and family members. They evoke that person’s positive qualities and experiences, usually during the memorial service. 

While eulogies can be emotional, they don’t have to be mournful. Think about what your audience would like to hear about this person. In the case of sudden death, most people want to hear something uplifting. They want to hear good things about the person. It would be best to be honest but selective about what you include. 

2. Share a memory

A lot of times, it’s challenging to know how to sum up a person in a single eulogy. People are well-rounded and complex. They aren’t merely a list of characteristics on a page. 

One simple way to present a complete picture of your friend is to use the eulogy as an opportunity to share a memory. You might tell a funny story or one where they helped you out of a tricky situation. Often, it’s these real-life experiences that highlight who we are. A humorous, light moment is also a welcome reprieve for mournful guests. 

3. Use a prompt

When you’re overcome with grief, it might feel impossible to put pen to paper. In this case, it’s worth using a eulogy prompt to get the words flowing. Here are some to get you started:

  • Who will be in the audience?
  • How would your friend like to be remembered?
  • What made your friend special?
  • Who was closest to your friend?
  • What are your friend’s most significant accomplishments?
  • When was your friend happiest?

While these are only jumping-off points, the prompts above will help you put your eulogy into perspective. This is an opportunity to say something meaningful about your friend. If you need more help, read our guide on how to start a eulogy .

4. Include quotes

It’s not always possible to find the right words to say. It’s okay if you need a bit of help. Using quotes adds another layer of depth to your work. Over the years, creative minds, including authors, musicians, leaders, and poets, have inspired the world with their words. Research funeral quotes for a eulogy for some inspiration. 

Aside from quotes specifically for funerals, you might also choose quotes that meant something to your friend. For example, including excerpts from their favorite book, movie, or song is a touching way to honor their interests. 

5. Incorporate a poem

Consider looking for a poem to help you share ideas that you find challenging to put into words. You can use a classic funeral poem that your audience may be familiar with or another verse that beautifully captures the characteristics of your deceased friend.

If you don’t know any poems or can’t find any that speak to you, consider using song lyrics. Reading a verse of your friend’s favorite song could provide a particularly poignant moment during the service.   

6. Find your own support

Last but not least, don’t forget to find your own support. Writing a eulogy is hard. Writing a eulogy for the sudden death of a friend is even more challenging. 

Make sure you have support for yourself during this difficult time. Whether that means enlisting the help of other friends, having someone else read your eulogy, or talking with someone you love, don’t forget to take care of yourself. 

While writing a eulogy, you’ll undoubtedly be forced to confront many lingering feelings around your friend’s life and death. You don’t have to face them alone. 

Do you have writer’s block? Here’s some additional guidance on how to write an obituary . 

Another way to overcome writer’s block when writing a friend’s obituary is to read examples. 

Let’s look at some examples of short eulogies written for a friend who died suddenly. You can also find real-life examples by reading online memorials or searching social media. Don’t be afraid to ask for help with writing your friend’s eulogy. 

Here are some short examples of eulogies for a friend who died suddenly: 

Though I am still reeling from the sudden death of my dear friend, Barb, I am humbled and touched by her time here with us. For those of you who don’t know me, I am Barb’s childhood friend, Susan. We’ve been friends since the first day of middle school. I’ll never forget how she sat across from me at lunch. I was so worried I’d be sitting alone, but she was quick to welcome me into her friend group. As we all know, Barb was a kind and caring friend. She never turned down the chance to meet new people, travel somewhere new, or be there when we needed her. Her positivity was an inspiration for everyone she met. She was a friend to many, and we will all miss her every day. Thank you for everything, Barb. 

Thank you to everyone who is here with me today to celebrate Kevin’s life. I’ve only known Kevin for the past five years, but I can already see how he’s significantly impacted everyone during his time as a teacher at our school. As his coworker and friend, I was lucky to see his work with students every day. So many students looked up to him and saw him as a father figure. He was patient, intelligent, and the funniest guy I knew. Kevin spoke highly of his own role models – his dad, John, and his uncle, Bill. If they’re anything like him — and I know they are — then it’s no wonder he grew into one of the greatest friends I’ve ever had. Kevin taught me the importance of always looking for the best in people, and I’ll always remember that. 

Nancy and I have been best friends for as long as I can remember. She was there through school, college, and all of the years after. It didn’t matter how long we’d been apart; we would always pick up right where we left off anytime we were together. Nancy was the kind of friend that had my back no matter what. I remember getting stranded when my car broke down one night after work while in college together. Nancy picked up the phone immediately and was the first one there. That was the kind of compassionate person she was. Even though Nancy’s death was sudden, her impact cannot be contained in her short lifetime. Her memory will live on with me, her family, and her daughter. I know she’d be smiling if she was here with us today. I am so grateful to have known her.  

Writing a Eulogy for a Friend FAQs

Here are the answers to common questions about writing a eulogy. Please keep in mind that every situation is unique. If you would like specific advice, consider participating in the Cake Forum . 

How long should a eulogy for a friend be?

A eulogy for a friend should be between five to 10 minutes long. However, if you are the only speaker at the event, you might feel inclined to speak longer.

Please understand that a eulogy differs from “sharing your thoughts” at a funeral service. If the officiant asks the audience to say a few words during the service, limit your response to one to two minutes.

How should you start a eulogy for a friend?

The best way to start a eulogy for a friend is by introducing yourself and telling those in the audience how you knew the deceased. 

Then, you may want to address the family members and offer condolences – or thank them for allowing you to share your memories of your friend.

Should you give a eulogy at a friend’s funeral?

If asked by the family, you should give a eulogy at a friend’s funeral. Speaking at a person’s funeral is a very loving act. 

Please realize that you aren’t the only person uncomfortable with public speaking. Try not to use your discomfort as an excuse not to share your thoughts about your friend who has passed.

What are some other ways to honor a friend who has passed away?

One of the best ways to honor a friend who has passed away is to keep their memory alive. Tell stories, share photos, and make a record of your favorite moments with the deceased.

Also, consider participating in activities your friend enjoyed to honor their memory. Some people donate to a favorite charity of the deceased or spend time volunteering for a favorite non-profit.

You can also keep a cherished possession or small token nearby to remind you of your deceased friend. Even something as common as a keychain can become a treasured item if it reminds you of good times in the past. 

Find Peace and Say Farewell With Your Eulogy

Eulogies offer us another glimpse of our loved ones. They’re a way to bring their presence into the funeral or memorial service through our words and memories. Writing a eulogy for a friend who died suddenly is a chance to say your final farewell. 

Even if you keep the eulogy private, this is an opportunity to reflect on your time together. Your loved one’s life was worthwhile; you can honor your friendship through words. For more help with the passing of a friend, please read our guide on how to offer condolences .

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  • Condolences & What To Say

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Opinion: What not to ask the loved ones of those who have died by suicide

Illustration of a small figure looking at a large blurry background image of her friend

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No, I did not know.

In late July of 2019, I had dinner in New York with one of my dearest friends. We split a mediocre dessert, he walked me home, we hugged. A few nights later, he took his own life.

In the wake of his death, people asked if I knew it was coming, if there were signs, if I could work the whole thing in reverse. Perhaps they’d grown accustomed to asking. Suicide has been on a steady rise in the U.S., particularly in adults. In 2022, nearly 50,000 Americans died by suicide . The surgeon general has dubbed mental health “the defining health crisis of our time.”

FILE - In this Nov. 20, 2015 file photo, a man walks along a trail during sunset near Manhattan, Kan. In 2022, about 49,500 people took their own lives in the U.S., the highest number ever, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released on Thursday, Aug. 10, 2023. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File)

Abcarian: Advice for the suicidal from a philosopher who tried to kill himself 10 times

You can want to live and die at the same time, says the author of “How Not to Kill Yourself.” Ambivalence is the saving grace of the despondent.

Sept. 24, 2023

Because a crisis of this magnitude will not be solved overnight, the need for etiquette dealing with the involuntary collective known as “the loved ones” has become a strange bellwether of the problem. I still worry about offending people who have been traumatized by suicide, and I’m one of them. But if we are to give those asking questions the benefit of the doubt, surely we can extend that same benefit to those in the unfortunate position of replying. To that end, I suggest eliminating “did you know?” as a reaction to suicide.

Many people who die by suicide suffer from demonstrable depression, ideations or past attempts — battles that rage externally as well as internally. But not all cases are like this. And regardless of any indications along the road, “did you know?” induces dread for those left behind, compounding grief with feelings of futility.

Far away view of a beach with a woman running towards man wading in the water

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Oct. 2, 2022

What, exactly, is being asked of us? (Was my friend someone who would casually suggest he’d rather “kill himself than walk through Times Square?” Absolutely. But to provide such an example would be like trying to help someone locate their car keys by whipping out a corkscrew and asking, “Will this do?”) To ask a grieving person whether they knew suicide was imminent also risks making the very people you’re trying to console feel accused, as if we ignored the briefing. As if we knew full well.

A few months ago, I spent an afternoon with a friend who had flown into town to visit her friend, who was dying of cancer. She asked if I had ever been around someone who had mere days to live. I said that no, I had not. But that’s not quite true. I have been. I just didn’t know it.

FILE - A man jogs past a sign about crisis counseling on the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Aug. 3, 2021. People in crisis and those trying to help them will have a new three-digit number, 988, to reach the national suicide prevention network starting in July. Federal health officials on Monday are announcing more than $280 million to smooth the transition from the current 10-digit number. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg, File)

Op-Ed: Will the new 988 hotline be a game changer for mental health or a missed opportunity?

Suicide prevention and crisis response systems need more support.

June 18, 2022

The crux of the issue is that “did you know?” and questions like it have little to do with the person who died or the person being asked and everything to do with the person doing the asking. Consciously or not, people want to reframe a terrible story for their own comfort. They want to scan their own relationships for abnormalities, to reassure themselves they aren’t missing something. They are saddled with the one emotion the bereaved person no longer experiences: fear. For us, the worst has already happened. For everyone else? The abyss of the unknown.

Albert Camus wrote, “there is only one really serious philosophical problem, and that is suicide.” But I do not have the answer to one of the world’s most notorious conundrums. I’m sure my friend didn’t either. Authority does not come free with proximity.

The reason I’m familiar with that quote is because I read Camus’ “The Myth of Sisyphus” while working on a book about loss and what happened to my friend. In doing so, I have been faced with a whole new line of questions about his death and yet again find myself coming up short. Do I feel catharsis? Surely I must, having written a book on this subject. Must I?

Recently, an early reader of the book stumped me when she asked: Did I consider not saying he died by suicide? I couldn’t help but smile, as my friend surely would have had he been there to hear it. What alternative means might this woman have preferred? A falling piano?

A series of nested half circles resting one inside the next.

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She pressed on until I realized what she was really asking. She felt there was a stigma about suicide and that made her uncomfortable. She felt that by announcing the way my friend had died, I was not protecting him. But I believe she was asking me to cover up something fundamental about my friend: his last act of free will.

So what is the alternative to personal curiosity? To the knee-jerk response? Try to remember that the bereaved — especially if they were taken by surprise — have to bear the burden of their own ignorance for the rest of their natural lives. Therefore, give the grieving person a reprieve from the interrogation, the lion’s share of which they will conduct themselves. Give them this for the same reason you would offer to do their dishes or run their errands: so they can get some rest.

Focus instead on what you did not know. There you will find the most generous condolences, the ones that can pierce through the veil of mourning. Say you wish you’d known the person who died. Say how extraordinary their lives must have been, how big their story. Say that we never really know what goes on behind the closed doors of someone’s mind but that it’s worth it to keep trying.

We miss the people we loved so much, and we have not stopped. I promise we’ll thank you.

Sloane Crosley is a novelist and essayist. Her forthcoming book, “Grief Is for People,” will be published Feb. 27.

Suicide prevention and crisis counseling resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, seek help from a professional and call 9-8-8. The United States’ first nationwide three-digit mental health crisis hotline 988 will connect callers with trained mental health counselors. Text “HOME” to 741741 in the U.S. and Canada to reach the Crisis Text Line .

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  1. How to Write a Memorable Tribute Speech: Step-By-Step

    Here are some helpful steps for writing a tribute speech: Get the Audience's Attention tribute speech topic ideas below for some ideas to get you started. If you're or at a memorial, you might need to write a tribute speech.

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    Order Your Funeral Flowers Here Eulogy Sample Speeches All the following links are sample eulogies written about real people. The ones for a father were written by myself and my brother when my Dad died. The one for a mother was written by my mother (founder of this website) about her own Mum.

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    Example # 3. Those of you who know me, know how much my grandson meant to me, our family, and our community. [Name] was a rare individual -- someone that, in today's day and age, is becoming increasingly more rare. He thrived on connecting with others and building up his community in any way he could.

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    Photo Books Certain people in life leave a lasting impression on our hearts and positively impact our lives. Learn how to write a tribute speech to honor and celebrate a particular family member, friend, or loved one at pivotal moments in life.

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    4.Start With the Honors. If you didn't get the opportunity to give the deceased their flowers before they died, here's your chance. Start with the honors. Discuss all the things that made the deceased special. Talk about awards you know of, their work ethics, and their parenting skills.

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    And deliver it at the funeral? You might have questions about how to get it right. Here are some tips on writing a eulogy to help you give a heart-warming funeral speech. What is a eulogy? A eulogy is a speech that's given at a funeral or memorial service. It's a tribute to someone who's passed away and a way to share memories of them.

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    "Amanda and I met on the first day of kindergarten. I was crying, because, as many of you know, I don't do well with change. Amanda marched right up to me and took my hand. 'Don't worry,' she said.

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    A funeral eulogy of between 500 and 1000 written words will take from around three and a half to seven and a half minutes to speak. Some funeral venues allocate a specific period of time for a funeral. The funeral director should be able to advise you, if you ask how long a eulogy should last, as part of the order of service.

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    1. Acknowledge the loss Begin by expressing your sadness over the passing of your friend, acknowledging the pain you feel and the void left by their absence. 2. Express gratitude Need a Eulogy? Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One Writing a eulogy for a loved one you have just lost, can be both challenging and painful.

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    The length and style of the speech can vary depending on the occasion, but it is usually a heartfelt and personal tribute to the person who has died. The purpose of a funeral speech is to celebrate the life of the deceased and to provide comfort and support to those who are grieving. It is also an opportunity for the speaker to express their ...

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    - Unknown "In the night of death, hope sees a star, and listening love can hear the rustle of a wing." - Robert Ingersoll "When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure."

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    1. Understand the purpose of eulogies First, it's helpful to understand the real purpose of eulogies. Yes, your eulogy is about the deceased, but it's for the audience. Eulogies are a way to bring peace to loved ones and family members.

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