Writing and Delivering a Eulogy
Writing and Delivering a Eulogy
A eulogy is a speech given at a funeral or memorial service to praise or honor the deceased person. It is a profound honor and a difficult task. The goal is to paint a respectful, honest, and loving portrait of the person's life.
The Structure of a Eulogy
A good eulogy should be brief (typically 3–5 minutes) and follow a simple, four-part structure:
- Introduction (1 Minute): Introduce yourself and explain your relationship with the deceased. Thank the guests for coming. Acknowledge the sadness and the honor of giving the speech.
- Life Overview (1 Minute): Briefly summarize the deceased’s life: major achievements, career, family roles (parent, friend, spouse), and core virtues.
- The Heart (2–3 Minutes): This is the most important section. Share one or two short, specific, and positive stories that illustrate the person's unique character. Was she generous? Share an anecdote of her kindness. Was he funny? Share a brief, clean, humorous story.
- Conclusion (30 Seconds): Offer a final farewell, summarize the person's legacy, and offer words of comfort and hope to the family.
Tips for Writing and Delivery
- Be Authentic: Write in your own voice. Avoid generic phrases and focus on who the person really was.
- Keep it Positive: A funeral is not the time to dwell on complex relationships or major flaws. Focus on the good and the love.
- Write it Out: Do not rely on notes. Write the full speech out and read it, even if you are a confident speaker. Grief is unpredictable, and reading ensures you stay on track.
- Practice Aloud: Practice the speech several times to time it (aim for 3–5 minutes) and become familiar with the rhythm.
- Manage Emotion: Have a glass of water ready. Do not apologize if you cry; it shows your love. Take a moment, breathe deeply, and continue. The audience understands and expects emotion.
The goal is to offer a loving tribute that leaves the audience with a smile and a grateful memory.