delivering a eulogy speech style

• Accessories
• Facial Hair

Browse all Get Style

• Program Review

Browse all Get Strong

• Relationships
• Social Skills

Browse all Get Social

• Manly Know-How
• Outdoor/Survival

Browse all Get Skilled

in: Featured , How To , Skills

Brett and Kate McKay • August 23, 2017 • Last updated: June 3, 2021

A Simple Guide to Writing and Delivering a Eulogy

Last September I had the honor of delivering the eulogy at my grandfather’s funeral. It was the first one I’d ever written or delivered, so I had no clue as to what to do. But after boning up on advice, and reading and watching a bunch of eulogies online, I was able to put something together I thought did a pretty good of job celebrating my grandfather’s truly rich and honorable life . Though, with how much Grandpa did over his century on earth, I don’t think any eulogy would have completely done the man justice.

If you’re asked to give the eulogy at the funeral of a friend or loved one, you’ll likely experience the same mix of emotions, and feel honored and yet nervous about how to give a speech that fully celebrates the deceased’s life, while giving comfort and catharsis to those he or she left behind.

There’s no getting around the fact that giving a eulogy is a weighty responsibility, but it’s one you should try to embrace. It’s not every day you get to step up, and contribute something meaningful to one of life’s most significant rituals. As long as you prepare well, and go into the funeral with thoughtful remarks and a full heart, you’ll do fine.

Below I share a few tips that I learned about writing and giving a eulogy from my own experience. Maybe they’ll help you as well.

How to Give a Eulogy Summary

• Decide on what kind of eulogy you’re going to give. Either life history, shared memories, or a combo of the two.
• Write the eulogy for your audience, not for you.
• Be funny and sad.
• Write your eulogy out verbatim. Don’t try to wing it!
• Keep it brief. 
• Practice, practice, practice (to get the cries out).
• You’re still going to cry, but try to keep it together.

Decide on what kind of eulogy you’re going to give. There are two basic types of eulogies you can offer:

• Life history . This is a eulogy where you just go through the life history of the recently deceased while highlighting achievements. You can often just read the obituary or use the obituary as a guide in drafting a life history eulogy. This type of eulogy is simple and fact-based, and a good option if you don’t personally know the deceased very well.
• Shared memories. With this type of eulogy, you sacrifice breadth for depth. Instead of covering the deceased’s entire life, you hone in on a few specific shared memories that you and the audience have about the deceased. These detailed stories often highlight an attribute or virtue of the dearly departed, but mainly they allow the audience to reminisce about good memories they had with him or her.

You can do either one or combine the two to form a hybrid eulogy. For my grandfather, I chose to do the latter. I used his obituary for the foundation of the eulogy and, when I got to a few of his accomplishments/milestones, I took a brief “detour” to detail a related memory I and the audience shared about that time or situation in my grandpa’s life.

One thing you should consider is asking whoever is planning the funeral for its tentative program, as this might determine what sort of eulogy you ought to give. For example, some other people might be asked to present vignettes of different shared memories of the deceased. If that’s the case, make your eulogy more life history based.

That happened at my grandpa’s funeral. Part of the program called for my uncle and a few of my cousins to share some memories about my grandpa, and a forester my grandpa worked with shared stories about their time together. Knowing that, I kept the shared memories portion of my eulogy to a minimum and kept it focused more on my grandfather’s life history.

The eulogy is for your audience, not for you. Whatever type of eulogy you give, keep in mind that you’re presenting to an audience that has had their own experience and memories with the deceased. So sharing memories or life history that just touch on your personal interaction with him or her is a little inconsiderate. By all means, share those personal memories, but also find ways to connect with all the members in your audience. For example, if coworkers will be in attendance, see if you can find a funny story about the deceased that they can relate to. If members of a community organization the deceased belonged to will be there, include a vignette about his or her time serving with them. If lots of grandkids will be coming to the funeral, share a story that you and all your cousins can reminisce about. You get the idea.

If you don’t know many stories about the deceased off the top of your head, phone/email folks to ask them to share their memories. Most people will be happy to talk about their fond recollections of the dearly departed.

For added gravitas, mix together the heavy with the light. Yes, it’s a funeral, but you don’t want your eulogy to be too serious because that paradoxically detracts from the weightiness and poignancy of the event. To really appreciate the bitterness of a loved one’s death, you need to contrast it with the sweetness of those joyful and even light and funny moments of their life. So don’t be afraid to inject humor into your eulogy! Make your audience laugh.

A good barometer of the effectiveness of your eulogy is that the sounds of both joyous laughter and sad sniffling can be heard from the crowd. It means you had the right mixture of heavy and light.

Write it out. Don’t think you can give a eulogy extemporaneously. Emotions will be close the surface as you deliver it, so the chance of you getting choked up and forgetting what you were going to say are high. To avoid that from happening to you, write out your eulogy word for word and read it from the pulpit or rostrum. Of course, as you’re reading, you don’t want to keep your nose buried in your notes. Practice good oration skills. Glance down to see what you’re going to say for the next line or two, look up and at your audience, and deliver those lines. Rinse, wash, and repeat until you’re done.

I had a moment where I got pretty choked up while talking about how Grandpa taught us grandkids how to ride horses. If I hadn’t had my eulogy written out, I probably would have stumbled through the rest of it.

The other reason you’ll want to write it out is that audience members will likely ask for a copy of it as a keepsake. You can also add it to any family history you all do.

Keep it brief. While the eulogy is an important part of a funeral service, there are other parts, too. To prevent the funeral from going longer than it needs to, keep your eulogy brief, even if the planners say you’ve got all the time you want. Shoot for something around the 10-minute mark; that’s plenty of time to say what you need to say, without the speech feeling like it goes on and on.  

Practice, practice, practice (to get the cries out). As mentioned above, emotions are going to be close to the surface as you deliver your eulogy. That’s not a bad thing. Emotion demonstrates your sincere grief, and part of the purpose of a funeral is to evoke a catharsis in the audience — a chance for them to feel and vent their own grief.

But a funeral generally, and a eulogy specifically, should also ideally impart hope and strength to those in attendance. When you’re able to hold it together, you demonstrate the fact that though the grief is acute, life will go on.

Plus, when you’re consumed by choking sobs, you’ll diminish your ability to deliver your eulogy well during this final public chance to honor and celebrate the deceased’s life.

So, you have to find the golden mean between injecting your eulogy with emotion, and speaking its words with clarity and clearness. What that means is speaking with real feeling, without being overtaken by intense crying jags.

To prevent such jags while you’re delivering the eulogy, get all your cries out the night before by practicing it over and over again. Read your speech again and again and again until you no longer cry when you read it, even at the really poignant parts.  

You’re still going to cry, but try to keep it together. No matter how much you practice or how much you cried the night before, seeing the teary faces of loved ones and friends as you share tender memories of the recently deceased will still cause you to cry. That’s okay. It means you’re a human being with a heart. But as just stated, while a few tears or moments of getting choked up are fine and can even add to the poignancy of the speech, don’t let it descend into uncontrollable bawling.

Have a hankie or some tissues handy. If you do get choked up, pause for a moment, take a few breaths, wipe away any tears or snot, and start reading again. No need to apologize profusely or make a big deal about choking up. People get it. You’re at a funeral. Just say “Excuse me,” and get back to the work of delivering your eulogy.

The circumstances that necessitate having to write a eulogy are certainly sad, so I can’t with gusto say: “I hope someone dies so you can get to talk about them!” But really, I do hope you get a chance to write and give a eulogy one day; it means you had a special relationship with the deceased, and that their loved ones feel you appreciated the person enough in life to be trusted with commemorating them in death. Giving my grandfather’s eulogy was truly one of the biggest honors of my life, and the process of writing and delivering it made me want to honor his memory by becoming a better man.

Related Posts

How to Write a Eulogy: The Ultimate Guide (with Eulogy Examples)

When someone you know sadly passes away it’s likely there will be a funeral held for them. This is a chance to remember their life, pay your respects and say goodbye . But if you’re going to giving a reading you may be struggling with how to write a eulogy.

If it was a family member or a close friend then being asked or wanting to give a eulogy for the deceased is normal. Having the chance to express how much they meant to you or to highlight the many achievements and good things they did throughout their life is a wonderful way to commemorate them.

But how do you write a eulogy? How do you compose something as emotional and moving as a funeral reading? And what are the right things to say in a eulogy and what should you not say?

Understandably most people aren’t sure of what to include in a eulogy or how to go about writing one. It’s not something you have to do very often, if at all.

So if you’re having trouble with how to write a eulogy and need some help then this guide is for you. It will go through who gives a eulogy, what you should and shouldn’t say in a one, how long it should be and tips for writing it.

As well as that we’ve put together an easy to us eulogy template and some example eulogies that will hopefully inspire and help you with writing your own.

What is a Eulogy

A eulogy is a speech or reading that is given at a funeral. It tends to focus on remembering the deceased and their life and is usually given by a friend or family member.

Multiple eulogies or readings can be given at a funeral. Eulogies offer those grieving the chance to reflect on and remember their friend or loved one and pay tribute to their life.

Being asked to give a eulogy by the family of the deceased is an honor. But it’s also understandable to feel the pressure and be nervous about making you’re eulogy, and what you say, just right.

Who Gives a Eulogy

The eulogy is given by someone close to the deceased. It could be a very good friend or a family member.

Sometimes multiple eulogies are given and you see many people from across the deceaseds life paying tribute to them.

As a funeral is such a difficult time to the family of the deceased they may feel unable to give a funeral speech or resting themselves. In this instance they may request either another family member or a close friend to give reading.

Why Are Eulogies Important?

A eulogy gives people who knew the deceased the chance to say goodbye and pay respect to their life. Often those close to whoever has passed away want the opportunity to remember and speak fondly of them.

The eulogy gives them that chance. The opportunity to say a few words about the deceaseds life, recount stories and generally remember them with the fondness and love they had during life.

It also allows for those attending the funeral and hearing the eulogy to remember the life of the passed. Maybe learn about them things they didn’t know and come away with a new understanding of the deceased.

Funerals are emotional for everyone involved. A well written eulogy can help to make sense of those emotions, provide some closure and chance to let go and maybe even bring some levity with happy memories to what is a very difficult time.

What Should you Include in a Eulogy

A eulogy should include whatever the person giving it wants to include. There are obvious areas you should avoid and certain things you shouldn’t say (see further down) but there is a freedom within a eulogy to talk about the deceased in the way you would like.

If you are writing a eulogy or funeral speech then you can approach it from the point of view of informing those in attendance about the life of the deceased. Making it mostly fact based. Or you might prefer to remember treasured memories or tell funny stories you have involving the deceased.

It can be as formal or informal as you like (unless the family specifically requests a certain style or tone) and include as much personal detail as you choose.

How Long Should a Eulogy be?

Whilst there aren’t any actual rules most eulogies are no more than 10 minutes, and usually less than 5 minutes. Longer than this might

Some funeral venues actually specify how long the entire funeral should be and so may even have a block of time marked for the eulogy. If that’s the case then the funeral director should be able to tell you how long you have and you can then plan your eulogy to fit that timeframe.

If you’re writing your eulogy and are worried about a word count then try not to. The timing is far more important than the number of words you say, mostly because the speed you make your speech will be a much bigger factor than the word count.

How to Write a Eulogy

Writing a eulogy is a very individual task and what would work for one person may not for another. Each person who has passed away is unique. Those writing a eulogy for them will have interacted and had experiences of them that will be different to other people.

That’s why every eulogy is unique. It’s you’re memories and feelings about someone and what they meant to you.

There are some things that are usually part of a eulogy though. You may choose to include some or all of them:

• The deceaseds date of birth and where they were born
• Any nicknames they might have had
• Names of close family members
• Their education or where they attended college/university
• How they met their partner/spouse
• How you knew them
• General accomplishments
• Favorite hobbies
• Contributions to their community or charity work they have done
• A favorite song or song lyric, poem or quote they especially liked or meant a lot to them
• Alternatively a poem, quote etc that you have chosen as you feel it is fitting

A good way to plan and then write a eulogy can be followed with these steps:

Think of the Audience

You need to always keep in mind who you are delivering the eulogy to. Its easy to get swept up in the writing process. But remember that the eulogy isn’t for you, it’s for the people who are attending the funeral. That’s going to be close friends and family of the deceased.

So ask yourself as your writing and composing your eulogy whether they will appreciate and like what you’re saying. Is it appropriate for them? Will it upset them or bring a smile to their face?

There will be many people grieving. They will be sad, hurt, angry and more. Your words need to offer comfort or remind them of better times.

So always have the audience you are delivering the eulogy to in the back of your mind.

Decide on a Tone

The tone of your eulogy is important. You need to make decision as to whether your eulogy will be somber or more uplifting. You might want your words to celebrate the life of the deceased and only remember the best times.

That might even be funny stories. Humor may seem taboo at a time like this but many people want to remember the good and happy moments rather than focus on the loss. So a eulogy with funny anecdotes or humor is acceptable.

A more traditional approach would be a reflection on their life and a serious, solemn tone. Both are used as eulogies and both can be fitting depending on the audience.

But you have to judge it right. Think of the audience again – are they likely to appreciate a more light hearted approach or will they find it inappropriate. You will have to be the judge of that.

Organize your Thoughts

It’s a good idea to write down notes as you begin to plan what you’re going to say. At first that might just be a mess of ideas but you can then start to arrange it into a proper eulogy and see it take shape.

Look at pictures, text messages, emails, letters etc. that you have from or to do with the deceased. Anything that helps you to remember them and the sort of person they were.

Triggering those memories and the times you spent with them will help you to capture their life and character. It will also help you to remember stories and anecdotes that you might want to include in the eulogy.

Talk to Friends and Family

It can help to speak with close friends or family members of the deceased. They can help you to fill in any spaces or any blanks you have as well as offering a different insight to them.

You can ask them what their most treasured memory of the deceased is, memorable moments, heartwarming stories or song lyrics and poems that they especially liked.

This will help you to flesh out your eulogy and bring additional details you may have missed.

Choose your Structure

Think about the structure of the eulogy as well. This will be informed by the tone and type of eulogy you’ve decided to write.

If it’s going to biographical and a more factual timeline of the deceaseds life then that will be written in a very different way to something more sentimental and that focuses on personal stories and memories. Whichever type you go with it will still probably follow a familiar introduction, middle and end structure.

The introduction should begin with your relationship to and how you knew the deceased, as well as some basic information about them. The introduction may be the trickiest part as it’s difficult to begin something as personal and emotional as a eulogy.

The middle will make up the majority of the eulogy. This will be where you talk about memories you have of the deceased, what they meant to you and maybe tell some stories. Funny anecdotes are popular as are special moments that you shared.

Finally choose how you want to finish and sum up the deceased. You may find this the most difficult part as closing a eulogy or speech about someone special to you is incredibly difficult, as well as finding the right words. A heartfelt quote or poem/verse that has special meaning can often be a good way to end a eulogy.

Edit and Reword

Once you’ve finished it’s a good idea to take step away from a while. Coming back to something you’ve written after a break can help you to see it in a new light and spot things you may have missed.

If anything doesn’t read well or sound right then change those parts until you’re happy.

Delivering Your Eulogy

Writing a eulogy may be the hardest part but the actual delivery is likely to cause the most stress and fear. A lot of people find public speaking scary in any situation, but the pressure of speaking about a loved one after they have passed away is going to be substantial.

If you’re worried about delivering a eulogy then these few tips may help:

• Speak slowly – it’s understandable to be nervous but unfortunately when you are you produce adrenaline, which has the unwanted effect of making you speak much faster. So try to breathe, stay as calm as you can and be aware if you’re beginning to speed up your speech. If so then make the effort to slow down and take longer on each word or sentence.
• Stay still – much like with talking too quickly adrenaline makes us fidget and move more. Try to be aware of any extra movements you’re making – drumming your fingers, shifting position a lot etc. and do your best to stop if it happens.
• Make eye contact – whilst you shouldn’t be starting directly at people throughout your delivery there are times when you may want to look up and make eye contact. This might be when you mention certain family members or friends as a way of making them feel included.
• Pause – rushing through your eulogy isn’t the best way to deliver it. Emotional readings require moments of silence and opportunities for reflection. Find the appropriate points in what you’ve written where a pause would make sense – be that after a very poignant section or to give the audience a chance to laugh after a very story.

Practice First

You don’t want to deliver a eulogy on the fly. Take time to practice it beforehand so you’re familiar with exactly what you’re going to say. Become familiar with the flow of the words and so comfortable with it you could almost recite it from memory.

This will also give you a chance to see how long it is and whether it’s overrun and you need to cut any out.

To get yourself ready for public speaking you could also practice in front of friends or family. That will help you with delivering to an audience and they can also give you tips about how it sounds and your delivery.

What you Should NOT Say in a Eulogy

There are topics and things you should avoid mentioning in a eulogy:

• Anything offensive – this is quite vague but if there is anything that might offend those in attendance then leave it out.
• A grudge – even if you did have a grudge against the deceased there’s no lint holding on to it now. Bringing it up will only make you sound bitter and be upsetting for the family.
• Bad memories – no one is perfect and there may be things the deceased did wrong. But it doesn’t help to rehash them now. It’s best to stick to the positives.
• Any crimes – a eulogy isn’t the time to be going over the mistakes the deceased may gave made. A criminal background isn’t something to be celebrated but it doesn’t need to be brought up in your eulogy either.
• The details of death – it’s harrowing enough for family and loved ones to have lost someone, they don’t need reminding of how they died.
• Bad personality traits – it would be petty to bring this up in a eulogy.
• Rude or inappropriate content – a eulogy is either meant to be a somber remembrance of the deceased or a positive, uplifting look back at their life. Rude or inappropriate things aren’t going to be welcome.

Eulogy Template

This is a very basic template for a eulogy that you can use as a base for writing your own.

Introduction

Today we come together not to mourn but to celebrate the life of [name]. [name] was a truly outstanding individual, one I know we all loved more than we could ever say. He/she was the most selfless and kind person I had the pleasure of knowing, and as I look out and see the smiles and heads nodding I know that is the opinion of everyone who was lucky to know him/her.

[name] was born in [city] on [date of birth], the [1st/2nd/3rd] child of [mom and dad’s name]. They lived in [city] from [year] until [year] before moving to [city]. His/her childhood was (include some information you know about the deceased and their childhood – a story or memory you have).

Education and Work

[name] attended [name of schools] before graduating with [training qualification or name of degree]. They worked for [company name] as a [position name] before moving on to [names of companies or jobs]. He/She was (include some information about the deceased and their work life here. Did they enjoy their jobs, did they work hard etc).

Family and Marriage

In [year] [name] met the love of his/her life, [name of spouse], and in [year] they were married. They were blessed with [number] children – [names of children] who were the joy of their life. Only last year [name] and [spouse name] celebrated [number of years, eg 40] years together with a lovely wedding anniversary. He/she (include more information about the family of the deceased, maybe a romantic moment or funny story involving the family).

Hobbies and Passions

[name] was an important active member of the [community, church, volunteer, theatre etc]. It was his/her passion and they dedicated so much time to [hobby or service]. They were known by everyone for (include more information or memories about their hobbies and what they treasured most about it).

I have so many amazing memories of [name] and also reached out to friends and family for their favorites: (include a few of those memories that meant the most to you or were especially funny/memorable and that demonstrated what sort of a person the deceased was).

We were blessed to have had [name] as part of our lives and the world has become a much sadder, less vibrant place now they’ve gone. Although we will miss [name] terribly we should treasure those memories we have, never let them go and remember just how fortunate we were that [name] touched our lives.

Eulogy Example

If you’d like some examples of eulogies to inspire or help guide you in writing your own then the following eulogy example should give you an idea of what they are like:

Dad was the light of my life. 

Even as a little girl, I remember him making me laugh so much I would nearly cry.  He had a wicked sense of humour that rubbed off on anyone that was near him. 

No one was upset around Dad for too long – although he did have his serious side, too, of course.

Dad grew up in the country, on a dairy farm a few hours from Melbourne called Toora and was surrounded by sheep, farm animals and beautiful landscape.  But his love for the written word drew him to the ‘big smoke’ to study literature at Trinity College in Melbourne. 

He said his passion came from his grandfather who used read endlessly to him. 

Stories that even as an adult he loved dearly and would read to us when we were kids. His favourites were Moby Dick and Tom Sawyer. 

My parents met at Trinity College and after graduating, decided to get married.  Two years later I was born, followed by my brother Charlie a year after that.

Dad was always so caring and giving to us children.  Even when we ran in and out of his office a million times interrupting his writing, Dad never got too angry. 

He would usher us away with suggestions of how we could occupy ourselves—always with creative and new ideas.

Dad was also inspirational to us, with his passion for music.  He loved most types, but his favourite was Neil Diamond. 

On Sunday afternoons, we would gather in the lounge room and Dad would put on his ‘album of the week’. 

He would pull Mum in his arms and dance around the room while we clapped hands and giggled—and then it was our turn. 

Dad would grab us both and swing us up and around until we were sick with laughter and dizziness.  The fun we had on those Sundays, I will never forget. Dad was a very clever man and could be introspective at times when there were serious decisions to be made. 

He never made rash decisions, but thought long and hard before giving us advice—sound advice that has helped to shape my life profoundly. 

He was always walking around saying that “life is too short to be hunched over a desk all your life, you must go out into the world and experience its beauty and learn its mysteries”.

Even as adults Dad inspired us, although we never really told him. 

Every couple of months the family would receive invitations to one of his infamous week-ends away. He would find a mystery location—always near a river or the ocean, and send us directions at the last minute.  We were prepared, as we had learnt years ago what the week-end would involve.  

We would pack everything needed to go swimming, fishing, snorkelling, or if in the winter months bush walks and sightseeing – it was always a week-end of fun and activity.  

Times that we all and especially the grandchildren will never forget. Dad: Your love, your patience, your understanding, your wisdom and your amazing sense of humour will live on inside us forever. 

You have given us gifts that are more precious than anything in this world.  Goodbye, Dad.  

You will always live on in my heart.

If Asked to Give a Eulogy can you Say No?

Yes, you can and in some circumstances you should. For example if you have a genuine phobia of public speaking and couldn’t physically do it, or it would be a disaster, then it’s a good idea to explain this to the family. They will understand and ask someone else.

Also if you and the deceased didn’t get on or there was bad blood between you it might be inappropriate for you to give the eulogy. Families don’t know every detail of the deceaseds life so may be unaware of any animosity between the two of you.

So sometimes you aren’t a good fit for giving a eulogy and it’s better for you to explain to the family why so they can find someone else. Rather that than it being awkward or tuning the day for everyone involved.

Can a Eulogy be Funny?

Yes. Many eulogies are more light hearted or have focused on funny aspects of the life of the deceased. Funny anecdotes and stories are very common.

However you should always consider the family of the deceased and the audience your eulogy will be delivered to. Will they appreciate a funnier eulogy or will they expect something more traditional.

Is it OK to Cry?

Yes. Emotions are expected when delivering a eulogy. Obviously you don’t want those emotions to overwhelm and stop you from being able to deliver it properly. But a few tears is absolutely fine.

Writing a eulogy is tough. There’s no getting around it. It’s emotional and difficult to find the right words.

But if you are struggling to write a eulogy then remember that those in attendance of the funeral won’t be expecting perfection. As long as you are speaking from the heart and are sincere that will shine through. They will appreciate your words and the effort you’ve taken to express how much the dreaded meant to you.

Sally Collins is a writer and the founder and owner of Sympathy Message Ideas. Her passion is to help others deal with grief and provide assistance with talking to those grieving.  Learn more about Sally .

Leave a comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

How to give a eulogy that truly celebrates the person you’re honoring

Share this idea.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)

Death is a part of life, and so are the funerals and memorial services held to mark an individual’s passing. But when we’re called upon to speak at these occasions, many of us are at a loss for words. Here are some basic guidelines for writing a eulogy, from palliative specialist BJ Miller and writer Shoshana Berger.

When you leave a memorial or funeral having imagined the fullness of the person being memorialized, you know the speakers got it right. The first rule for eulogists is that this is not about them. It is about paying close attention to the way a person lived and drawing out the most meaningful, memorable bits.

Summing up a life in writing isn’t easy, but it’s an important exercise that serves a dual purpose. It obliges the writer to call up memories — which is a way to honor the person and process one’s loss — and it creates an atmosphere of deep community with other grievers. Do your best to be honest in your eulogy, instead of presenting some idealized portrait that others won’t recognize. Steve Schafer, a pastor who helps people write eulogies, offers the following guidelines.

• Aim for 1,000 words, or about six to seven minutes’ speaking time.

• Always write down what you’re going to say, even if you plan to abandon your notes. It’s a good way to gather your thoughts and make sure you’re not missing any important details.

• Be personal and conversational. This isn’t a formal speech; it’s an appreciation.

• If you aren’t introduced by the emcee or by another speaker, do so yourself and say what your relationship to the person was.

• Start with a story about the person. People come alive through specific anecdotes.

• Be humorous. The best eulogies are respectful and solemn, but they also give mourners some comic relief. A bit of roasting is fine if it suits who the person was and the family has a sense of humor.

• Close your eulogy by directly addressing the person who died, something like “Joe, thank you for teaching me how to be a good father.”

Here’s an example of a great eulogy, written by a woman for her grandmother. Before each section, we’ve explained what she’s done.

[Start with an introduction that paints a portrait of the person’s character. Beginning with your memories of the person is a great way to go. Try for descriptive details — the Almond Joy moment below — rather than broad, abstract statements such as “She was kind” or “She was a loving caretaker.”]

From my earliest memories, she is right by my side, taking me on walks through the miniature golf course near our house, dutifully preparing my odd lunch requests for cheddar and mayo sandwiches and sneaking me Almond Joy candy bars away from the gaze of my mom.

[Draw out important moments that signify lifelong connection.]

I was so close to my grandma that around the age of 23 I grew increasingly anxious that she might not live to attend my wedding unless I hurried up. Well … she did live to attend that wedding, and also to witness my first divorce, my second marriage, and to know and love my two children. She liked Jeff from the beginning and one day before we were engaged, she boldly told him, “Well, you better put a ring on it!” quoting Beyoncé without knowing the reference.

[Talk about advice passed down — values, sayings and anecdotes that capture the person.]

The most remarkable qualities about my grandma as she aged were her gratitude and her humility. She often told me to live for myself and not worry about her — to work, focus on my family, and come visit when I had time. She loved every minute of our visits but never pushed for more.

I once asked her if I should have a third child and she replied, “Why, honey? You already have the perfect family.” The most important things to my grandma were family and faith; she didn’t care for material possessions. In fact, she was known for giving items away because “there was someone who was more in need.” This selflessness and service for others leave a legacy that I will try to model for my children. Time with her family was the greatest gift and even with that, she was not greedy.

[Thank-yous to other family members who helped with caretaking.]

I am deeply thankful to our family who cared for, loved her, and relished spending time with my grammie as she aged. Knowing she had Adie to take her to church and lunch every Sunday punctuated her week with a joyful event she truly looked forward to. Dave and Aileen always arrived with a box of her favorites See’s Candies, essentially confirming the Pavlovian model as she began to drool as soon as they walked in the door. And to my mom, who cared for my grandma for the last 10 years of her life with compassion and unrivaled duty. I thank her not only for giving back to her mom, but for modeling care and respect for our elders.

[The eulogy goes on a bit longer and then ends with a closing quote, poem, reading, or other good-bye.]

“When my friends began to have babies and I came to comprehend the heroic labor it takes to keep one alive, the constant exhausting tending of a being who can do nothing and demands everything, I realized that my mother had done all of these things for me before I remembered. I was fed; I was washed; I was clothed; I was taught to speak and given a thousand other things, over and over again, hourly, daily, for years. She gave me everything before she gave me nothing.”

— Rebecca Solnit, from her book The Faraway Nearby

Excerpted from the new book A Beginner’s Guide to the End: Practical Advice for Living Life and Facing Death by BJ Miller and Shoshana Berger. Copyright © 2019 by BJ Miller and Shoshana Berger. Reprinted by permission of Simon & Schuster, Inc, NY.

Watch his TED Talk now:

About the authors

BJ Miller, MD , practices and teaches palliative medicine in San Francisco. He has been profiled in The New York Times Magazine, interviewed on Super Soul Sunday, and speaks around the world.

Shoshana Berger is the editorial director of the global design firm IDEO. She was a senior editor at Wired magazine and the cofounder of ReadyMade magazine.

• book excerpt

TED Talk of the Day

How to make radical climate action the new normal

6 ways to give that aren't about money

A smart way to handle anxiety -- courtesy of soccer great Lionel Messi

How do top athletes get into the zone? By getting uncomfortable

6 things people do around the world to slow down

Creating a contract -- yes, a contract! -- could help you get what you want from your relationship

Could your life story use an update? Here’s how to do it 

6 tips to help you be a better human now

How to have better conversations on social media (really!)

3 strategies for effective leadership, from a former astronaut

Your digital life after death

How to prepare for a good death

13 writing tips, from beloved teacher Anne Lamott

Death is not the end: Fascinating funeral traditions from around the globe

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• Happiness Hub
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• Communication Skills
• Public Speaking
• Speechwriting

A Guide to Writing & Delivering an Appropriate Eulogy

Last Updated: May 15, 2024 Fact Checked

Sample Eulogies

What is a eulogy.

• Writing a Eulogy
• Giving a Eulogy

Expert Q&A

This article was co-authored by Rebecca Tenzer, MAT, MA, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS, CCATP, CCFP and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA . Rebecca Tenzer is the owner and head clinician at Astute Counseling Services, a private counseling practice in Chicago, Illinois. With over 18 years of clinical and educational experience in the field of mental health, Rebecca specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, grief, interpersonal relationships using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, and other evidence-based practices. Rebecca holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sociology and Anthropology from DePauw University, a Master in Teaching (MAT) from Dominican University, and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Chicago. Rebecca has served as a member of the AmeriCorps and is also a Professor of Psychology at the collegiate level. Rebecca is trained as a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT), a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist (CGCS), a Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), and a Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP). Rebecca is also a member of the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Society of America and The National Association of Social Workers. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,884,525 times.

A eulogy is a speech given at a memorial service in memory of the deceased. Being asked to deliver one may seem overwhelming at first, but 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. If you want to know how to write a eulogy in spite of being in grief, keep reading as we walk you through how to write and deliver a great eulogy.

Tips for Writing a Eulogy

• Introduce yourself and your relationship to the deceased. Describe their family life, accomplishments, and notable hobbies.
• As you talk about the deceased’s qualities, speak from the heart and tell stories from their life that support these qualities.
• Don’t be afraid to use a bit of humor to break the tension. A bit of laughter can help the audience feel better.

• A good eulogy reflects the personality, character, and achievements of the deceased while typically incorporating personal anecdotes from the person delivering the speech.
• Every eulogy is different, but the most important thing is that it is heartfelt and accurately depicts the person being honored.

How to Write a Eulogy

• Ask the deceased’s loved ones for stories. To make the eulogy personal and heartfelt, ask their friends and family to tell you about them so you can get a full picture of what they were like. [3] X Research source

• When deciding on a tone, consider the way the deceased passed away. If you're giving a eulogy about a teenager who met an untimely death, your tone should be more serious than if you were giving a eulogy about a grandparent who happily lived to see their ninetieth birthday.
• Every eulogy is unique, so base the theme around the deceased’s life. For example, if they traveled a lot, talk about all the adventures they had. If they were family-oriented, talk about the cherished memories they shared with their children.

• If the deceased was religious, you can also begin your speech with a prayer.
• For example, try something like “My mother loved Fleetwood Mac, so I’d like to open with a line from their song “Landslide.”
• Or, “When I was a child, my father would always tell me ‘Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get.’ He always acted like he came up with it himself, so imagine my surprise when I saw Forrest Gump for the first time.”

• If you aren’t related to the deceased, this is also a good time to offer your condolences to the family.
• You can also describe how you met the deceased if you aren’t a relative.
• For example, say, “My name is Jane and I’m the daughter of Robert. I’m here today to celebrate my father’s life and tell you all what an incredible man he was.”
• Or, “For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Ted. I’m proud to say I’ve been Gary’s best friend for forty years.”

• Write down the names of the family members especially close to the deceased, like a spouse, sibling, child, or parent. 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 to honor their living family members.
• For example, say something like “John was a family man and is survived by his wife Susan, his daughter Christina, and his son Nicholas. He worked hard to build them their dream home where he proudly taught his children to ride a bike, drive a car, and be strong, independent people. He always said his family was his biggest accomplishment.”
• Or, “Lois was a globetrotter. She spent the majority of her life traveling and seeing the world. She’d tell me stories about visiting countries I’d never even heard of and all the adventures she had.”

• If the deceased is remembered for being kind, talk about the time they helped a homeless man get back on his feet.
• If the deceased is known for being a prankster, mention their famous April Fool's prank.
• For example, you could say “My mother was the kindest person I’ve ever met. She was the type to give you the shirt off her back. I still remember when I was 8 years old, she paid for a family’s meal at Olive Garden when she noticed their card was declined. We didn’t have much money then, so it was a complete act of selflessness. Ever since then, I’ve tried to be half the woman she was by helping out whenever I can.”
• Pretend that a stranger is listening to your eulogy. Would they get a good sense of the person you're describing without ever meeting them just from your words?
• 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.

• For example, if the person was difficult or inordinately negative, either avoid talking about it or allude to it gently by saying something like “He had his demons, which were a constant battle.”
• Or, say something like, “We all know Harry was a stubborn old man, and he’d tell you that himself. Underneath that rough exterior, however, was a kind soul.”
• Avoid making jokes or comments about the deceased that would be a mystery to the majority of the crowd, as well.
• A good rule of thumb is if you think something could be offensive to the deceased or their loved ones, don’t include it. If you made a joke that might be risky, get feedback from some of the deceased’s loved ones beforehand to determine if it’s appropriate.

• For example, if the deceased did a lot of charity work, you may encourage the audience to carry out their memory by doing some volunteer work themselves.
• If the deceased was religious, you can say something like “My mother was a good Christian woman and as she goes to live with God in Heaven, I’d like to leave you with her favorite Bible verse.”
• You can be heartfelt and still keep things light. If the deceased was the type who didn’t want their funeral to be too sad, try saying something like, “Buddy, I sure am going to miss you. You always said you wanted everyone to crack open a beer for you when you died, so once we’re done here, I encourage everyone to pour one out for the best friend anyone could ask for.”

• You can also ask someone to help edit your eulogy. Since you’re the only one who will be reading it at the funeral, it doesn’t have to have perfect grammar, but your friends or family members can help you add smoother transitions or remove repetitive phrasing.

How to Give a Eulogy

• Rehearsing the eulogy will also help you learn to control your emotions and not get choked up over the speech.
• Try memorizing as much of the speech as you can, or even just reading from notes. Though you should have something to fall back on if you forget what you were going to say, your words will sound more heartfelt if you’re not reading every sentence right off the page.

• Tell yourself you’re not there to win a speech-giving contest or to impress anyone. You’re there to convey your heartfelt feelings about the deceased and that’s it.

• Remember to sound like yourself, not some formal version of yourself. You can use a conversational tone as long as you don't use inappropriate language or too much slang that might confuse the older members of the audience.

• Write and speak in your own voice. If you wish, augment your eulogy by reading a poem. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 1
• The best eulogies are factual, honest, and respectful. Talk about the deceased and what they did in their lifetime. If they died young, show that you express regret about that. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Don't use humor that is either inappropriate or being used just for the laugh. Make it relevant and tasteful. If in doubt, leave it out. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 0
• Don't think that a eulogy has to be a biography of the deceased. On the contrary, you shouldn't sum up their entire life. Instead, tell your story—that is, your relationship with the deceased and how they impacted your life. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Avoid mentioning how the deceased passed. Depending on the situation, this can be a very sensitive topic and may greatly upset their loved ones. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.bonnerupfuneralservice.com/resources/how-to-write-a-eulogy
• ↑ https://kebbelfuneralhome.com/40/How-to-Write-a-Eulogy.html
• ↑ https://www.abbottfuneralservices.com/resources/how-to-write-a-eulogy
• ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-empowerment-diary/201805/writing-creative-eulogy-your-beloved
• ↑ https://www.aldenharrington.com/how-to-write-a-eulogy
• ↑ https://www.toastmasters.org/magazine/magazine-issues/2020/nov/delivering-a-heartfelt-farewell
• ↑ https://phaneuf.net/after-a-loss/how-to-write-a-eulogy
• ↑ https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/social-anxiety-disorder/treatment/conquering-stage-fright

About This Article

To write a eulogy, consider the audience and try to focus on the positive aspects of the person’s life while remaining honest. At the beginning of the eulogy, introduce yourself and talk about how you knew the deceased. Continue on to talk about their life, including their family members, where they lived and grew up, what their career achievements were, and what hobbies and interests they were passionate about. Try to include specific examples of the qualities that they possessed by telling stories. When the eulogy is written, be sure to practice before the big day. To learn more strategies about how to read the eulogy in front of others, keep reading below. Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Jul 21, 2017

Did this article help you?

Marc Roddin

Aug 11, 2017

Debbie Locklear

Aug 16, 2021

Pam Peterson

Jun 13, 2016

Ted Fedorowicz

Apr 11, 2017

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

Notifications

86 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 community leader

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.

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

Eulogy example for loving mother.

We gather here today to celebrate the life of Emily Thompson, a beloved mother and grandmother who passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. Emily was a kind, caring, and nurturing woman who devoted her life to her loved ones.

As a mother of four and a grandmother of nine, Emily's love and devotion knew no bounds. She was the heart and soul of her family, providing comfort, support, and wisdom whenever it was needed.

Though we mourn the loss of Emily, we take comfort in the memories she has left behind and the love she shared with us all. Her legacy lives on through her family and the countless lives she touched during her lifetime. Rest in peace, Emily, knowing that you made a profound difference in the world and that you will be deeply missed.

Eulogy example for teacher

Marcus was a beloved teacher who dedicated his life to helping his students achieve their goals. He had a gift for teaching and his enthusiasm for learning was contagious. Marcus always went above and beyond to help his students, whether it was staying late to help them with homework, or just lending an ear when they needed to talk. He truly believed in the power of education to change lives, and he worked tirelessly to make sure his students had the tools they needed to succeed. Marcus was also a devoted husband and father. He met his wife, Sarah, when they were both in college, and they were inseparable ever since. They had two children together, and Marcus loved nothing more than spending time with his family. He was always there for his kids, whether it was coaching their sports teams or just reading them a bedtime story.

Marcus was diagnosed with cancer three years ago, but he never let it slow him down. He continued teaching, even when he was undergoing chemotherapy, and he always had a positive attitude. Marcus fought his illness with courage and grace, and he never lost his faith in God.

Marcus was a shining example of what it means to be a good person, and he touched the lives of everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by his students, colleagues, and his loving wife and two children.

Eulogy example for a chef

Isabella was a talented chef who had a passion for creating beautiful and delicious food. She was always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients, and her dishes were a work of art. Isabella had a natural talent for cooking, but she also worked hard to hone her skills. She attended culinary school and worked in some of the best restaurants in the city. But Isabella's love for cooking wasn't just about creating amazing dishes. She also loved the way food brought people together. Isabella was always hosting dinner parties and potlucks, and she loved nothing more than seeing people enjoy her food. She had a big heart and loved to share her food with family and friends. Her food was a way for her to show her love for the people in her life.

Isabella was also a devoted partner. She met her girlfriend, Maria, when they were both working in a restaurant, and they were inseparable ever since. They built a life together, and Isabella loved nothing more than spending time with Maria and their two dogs.

Isabella's death was a shock to everyone who knew her. She had so much talent and so much to give to the world. But even in death, Isabella's spirit lives on through her food and the memories she created for those who knew and loved her.

Eulogy for a principal

Today, we honor the life of a great educator who dedicated his life to shaping young minds and transforming our community through educational reform. We celebrate Michael's passion for education and his tireless efforts in ensuring that every child in this school district received quality education. He was not only an excellent principal but also a mentor, friend, and role model to many.

Michael was committed to providing resources necessary for students' success by creating programs that would enable them to have access to books, computers, and other learning materials. His unwavering commitment towards serving disadvantaged communities will forever be remembered.

We'll miss his vision for educational reform but are grateful for the impact he left on us all.

One of my favorite memories with Michael was when he fought tirelessly to get funding from the government so that we could add more classrooms and hire more teachers. His determination inspired me always.

Eulogy for a doctor

It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye today to Dr.[Name], an incredible physician who touched many lives during his medical career. While he loved fast cars, small dogs, and Margaritaville music, his dedication towards helping others never wavered.

Dr.[Name] had a way of putting people at ease whenever they were anxious about their health issues; he made you feel like everything would be okay no matter what happened.

He lived life fully and inspired those around him while doing so - even while battling his own illness—always encouraging others never to give up hope or lose faith in themselves.

I’ll miss his sense of humor but am lost without his guidance on how I should take care of myself better!

Another one of my favorite memories with Dr.[Name] is when he took me out on a ride-along in his sports car after work one day! He loved living life vicariously through little adventures like these!

Eulogy for someone who followed their dream

Today we gather here to honor [Name], who was a brilliant data analyst with a desire to become a potato farmer in Europe. He had an insatiable love for his lineage and dreamt of starting his farm there.

[Name] loved data analysis, but he also believed that there was more to life than crunching numbers. His passion for agriculture inspired him to follow his dream of farming potatoes and reconnecting with his roots.

He will be missed for his gentle nature and quiet strength. Still, we can all take comfort in knowing that he lived life on his terms and pursued what made him happy.

One of my absolute favorite moments was when [Name] shared pictures of the farmland where he hoped to start farming someday—his eyes lit up as he spoke about it so passionately!

Eulogy for a CEO who swapped careers

Today marks the passing away of someone incredibly special- a CEO turned dog trainer specializing in corgis- [Name].

[Name]'s career shift from being a successful CEO reflected how passionate she was about dogs, especially corgis! Her love for them was unmatched, and she spent her later years training them.

She was an inspiration to many who dreamed of following their passion. She showed that it's never too late to start something new, no matter how old you are!

We'll miss her business acumen but are grateful for the legacy she left behind. [Name] lived a life filled with happiness and fulfillment, doing what made her happiest - surrounded by pups!

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when I visited her training facility and saw all the corgis happily playing under her watchful eye; it was a beautiful sight to see!

Eulogy for a small business owner

Today we celebrate the life of our beloved community leader [Name], who served tirelessly on city council while running one of the most popular sandwich shops in town.

[Name] had an unwavering commitment towards serving others; she dedicated her time, energy, and resources towards making our community better. From creating programs for at-risk youth to supporting small businesses like hers financially - she did it all without asking anything in return.

She brought people together through her sandwiches, which were not only delicious but also affordable! Her relentless dedication towards serving her customers helped establish her business as one of the best sandwich shops around town.

We are grateful for everything [Name] did during her lifetime, and we know that her legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

Another one of our family's favorite memories with [Name] is when she would often give us free sandwiches if we couldn't afford them! She truly cared about everyone who came into her shop!

5.Today marks the passing away of someone incredibly special- a CEO turned dog trainer specializing in corgis- [Name].

Ladies and Gentlemen,

We gather here today to celebrate the life of a remarkable woman, a mother, an engineer, a farmer, a community activist, and a beloved friend to many. [Name] was a beacon of strength, compassion, and unwavering love.

Born 58 years ago, [Name] was a woman of many talents and passions. She pursued an engineering degree with the determination and brilliance that defined her character. Not one to rest on her laurels, she furthered her education with a Master’s in Agricultural Sciences, a field where she found her true calling.

[Name] was not just a scholar but a practitioner. Her homestead was her haven, a place where she cultivated not just crops but a sense of community. She loved farming, a passion that was evident in the thriving fields and the abundance she shared with her neighbors. Her produce fed not just bodies but souls, fostering a sense of unity and support in our community.

As a mother of twins, [Name] was phenomenal. Her love for her children knew no bounds. She was bright and thoughtful, always finding the right balance between nurturing and guiding her children with patience and wisdom. Her love was the foundation upon which her family stood strong.

Her battle with lung cancer was a testament to her incredible resilience and strength. Even in the face of illness, she remained an active and dedicated member of our community. Her activism and her unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of those around her were truly inspiring.

[Name] was more than her accomplishments; she was a person of immense warmth and kindness. She had a unique ability to make everyone feel seen and heard. Her thoughtful nature, her loving heart, and her unwavering patience were qualities that left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Today, as we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her life and the indelible mark she left on all of us. Her legacy is not just in the fields she tilled or the degrees she earned but in the lives she touched and the love she spread.

Let us remember [Name] not with tears but with the joy and gratitude for having had the privilege of knowing such an extraordinary woman. Her spirit will forever live on in our hearts and in the community she so dearly loved and served.

Rest in peace, [Name]. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy will continue to inspire and guide us.

Eulogy for [Name]

Ladies and Gentlemen, family, and friends,

Today, we gather to celebrate the life of an extraordinary man, a loving father, a dedicated foster parent, and a pillar of our community, [Name]. He was a man of boundless generosity, unwavering love, and unparalleled dedication to his family and community.

Born 62 years ago, [Name] was the proud father of four wonderful children. But his heart was so vast that it couldn't be confined to just his own; over the years, he opened his home and heart to more than 15 foster children. Each child who came into his life was embraced with the same love and care as his own. He was not just a father but a beacon of hope and love for all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Tragically, [Name] passed away after a sudden heart attack. His departure has left a void that is felt deeply by all of us, but his legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire us.

Family vacations were always a highlight of the year, meticulously coordinated by [Name]. He ensured that each trip was filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Whether it was camping in the great outdoors, exploring new cities, or simply spending time together, these moments were cherished by all, thanks to his thoughtful planning.

[Name] had a passion for cooking and baking, often seen in the kitchen whipping up delicious meals and treats. He shared this love not only with his family but also with underprivileged families, teaching them how to cook and build healthy meals. His culinary skills brought warmth and nourishment to so many lives.

His hands were never idle, always busy fixing or building something. He had a remarkable talent for organizing and creating, leaving behind a legacy of beautifully crafted items and well-maintained homes. His ability to turn chaos into order was nothing short of magical.

Every year, [Name] competed in a marathon, showcasing his determination, strength, and dedication. His participation was not just about personal achievement but also about inspiring others to push their limits and strive for their best.

Beyond his immediate family, [Name] extended his care and compassion to the wider community. He served on the board of three community food kitchens, tirelessly working to ensure that those in need were fed and cared for. His commitment to these causes was a testament to his selflessness and desire to make the world a better place.

Beloved by all his children and family members, [Name]'s love was a constant, reassuring presence in their lives. His wisdom, guidance, and unwavering support were the foundation upon which they built their lives.

As we say our final goodbyes, let us remember [Name] not with sadness for his passing, but with gratitude for the incredible impact he had on our lives. His spirit will live on in the love he shared, the lives he touched, and the countless memories we hold dear.

Rest in peace, dear [Name]. You will forever be in our hearts, a shining example of love, kindness, and dedication.

Eulogy for theater director

We gather here today to honor the life of someone truly unique, a person who touched each of our lives in ways we will never forget—[Name]. At just 59 years old, [Name] left us far too soon, taken by a sudden brain aneurysm. Though his time with us was shorter than we wished, the impact he made will remain with us forever.

As an art director and talent manager at KMC Theater in Kentucky, [Name] was a force behind the scenes, guiding creativity and passion with a quiet but unyielding presence. The arts were his true love, and he found immense joy in his work. His dedication to nurturing talent and creating beautiful, meaningful art left an indelible mark on the theater community and on all those who had the privilege of working with him. His colleagues often spoke of his stoicism—his ability to stay calm and focused, no matter the challenges they faced. But behind that calm exterior was a deep well of passion for the arts and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Outside of work, [Name] was a homebody, an introvert who found comfort and peace in the familiar. Yet, when he was at a party, he was the life of it, effortlessly balancing his quiet nature with a surprising ability to connect with others. His friends and family knew him as a man who could make you feel seen and heard, even in a crowded room.

Though he never had children of his own, [Name] was a wonderful uncle—a figure of love, wisdom, and guidance to his nieces and nephews. He relished his role, offering support and encouragement, always with a gentle smile and a listening ear. His presence in their lives was a gift they will carry with them always.

[Name] had a love for trying new things, even if it didn’t always go as planned—particularly in the kitchen. He was, by his own admission, a terrible cook. But that never stopped him from experimenting with new recipes, often to the amusement of those who were brave enough to try his culinary creations. It was just one of the many ways he showed us the importance of embracing life with curiosity and a sense of humor.

Today, as we say our goodbyes, we remember a man who was more than just an art director or a talent manager. He was a beloved uncle, a dear friend, a quiet soul with a heart full of passion. His life, though brief, was rich with meaning and love. We will miss his wisdom, his laughter, his unique presence. But we will carry his spirit with us, in the art he helped create, in the memories we shared, and in the lessons he taught us about living fully and with passion.

Rest in peace, dear [Name]. You will be missed more than words can express.

Eulogy example for a teacher

Good afternoon, everyone.

We gather here today to celebrate the life of Sharon Claes, a woman whose spirit, bravery, and resilience touched each of us in ways we will never forget. Sharon passed away at the age of 53, after a nine-year battle with cancer. Though she was initially given only two years to live, she defied the odds, fighting with every ounce of strength, determination, and love she had.

Sharon was a warrior, a true survivor, and to those of us who knew her, she was a badass in the truest sense of the word. She faced her illness with a tenacity that was nothing short of inspiring. Despite the physical pain, the emotional toll, and the countless treatments and setbacks, Sharon never lost her bravery. She was determined to live every moment to the fullest, to squeeze every drop of joy out of life, and she did so with grace, humor, and a stubbornness that we all admired.

Before her diagnosis, Sharon was a dedicated 9th-grade English teacher at Westfield High School. For over two decades, she poured her heart and soul into her work, shaping young minds with her passion for literature and her belief in the power of words. Her students adored her, not just because she made Shakespeare understandable or because she encouraged their creative writing, but because she believed in them. Sharon had a unique gift for seeing the potential in every student who walked into her classroom, and she worked tirelessly to help them see it in themselves.

Even as she battled cancer, Sharon continued to teach for as long as she could. When she could no longer be in the classroom, she still found ways to stay connected with her students and colleagues, offering guidance, encouragement, and her trademark wit. She never wanted to be defined by her illness, and she certainly never wanted anyone to pity her. Sharon was fiercely independent and always focused on the needs of others, even when she was going through the hardest times of her life.

Sharon was more than just a teacher; she was a beloved member of this community. She was involved in countless local initiatives, from organizing charity events to supporting the arts. Her impact was felt far beyond the walls of her classroom, touching the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Sharon was the kind of person who made you feel seen and valued, and her kindness, compassion, and generosity will be remembered by all of us.

To her family, Sharon was a rock. A devoted daughter, sister, and aunt, she loved her family fiercely and unconditionally. Her nieces and nephews brought her so much joy, and she took every opportunity to share with them her love of books, her quirky sense of humor, and her wisdom. Sharon's family was her greatest treasure, and they were the reason she fought so hard for so long.

Sharon's journey was not easy, but she faced it with a courage that was nothing short of remarkable. She taught us all what it means to live with grace, to fight with everything you have, and to love with all your heart. Sharon did not lose her battle with cancer—she lived a life that was full, rich, and deeply meaningful, and in the end, that is the greatest victory of all.

Today, as we say our goodbyes, let us remember Sharon for the incredible woman she was. Let us honor her legacy by living our lives with the same bravery, compassion, and unyielding spirit that she showed us. Sharon may no longer be with us in body, but her spirit, her laughter, and her love will continue to guide us all.

Rest in peace, Sharon Claes. You were, and always will be, a true fighter, a survivor, and a force of nature. We will miss you dearly, but we are forever grateful for the time we had with you.

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

• Please make sure you've written a comment before it can be published. If you prefer to remove your comment, you can delete it.
• Sorry, we had some trouble updating your comment.

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

The Remembrance Process℠ - From Grieving to Remembrance

Preparing a Eulogy: A Step-By-Step Guide

Delivering a eulogy for a friend or family member is a wonderful way to participate in the funeral service. It is an opportunity to acknowledge the importance of the life lived, and to remind survivors of the memories and legacy left behind. Nearly any eulogy, if delivered with love and respect, can be considered a good one, and a funeral audience will be one of the most sympathetic and forgiving audiences you will ever find.

A funeral is a very important occasion and those in attendance are very emotionally fragile. Preparing and delivering a eulogy can make those unaccustomed to writing and public speaking very anxious. Understandably, the eulogist wants to get things right. The most important thing to remember as you go through this process is to focus on the deceased, rather than your own nerves and concerns. If you can do that you will be able to write a heartfelt tribute that expresses your feelings about the life you are there to remember and honor. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you create and deliver a meaningful eulogy.

Step One- Share stories and memories One of the most wonderful and satisfying things we can do when we lose someone we love is to learn something new about that person from others. So whether you are preparing an obituary for someone you know intimately, or for a colleague, it’s a good idea to start out by gathering ideas and stories first. Set aside a couple of hours to share stories and talk about the deceased with family and friends. Write down stories and memorable sayings as you go along. Learning these stories will help bring to mind your memories of the deceased, and go a long way towards preparing your eulogy.

Step Two- Brainstorming and editing Brainstorming will be similar to your conversation with the family, only this time it’s just you. Write down any ideas that come to you about the deceased, whatever they happen to be. In this stage you don’t want to edit anything out. A small idea may lead to a great one, so just open up and allow any ideas to come out onto your paper. You’re looking for stories, perspectives, memories, music and food associated with that person; mental images about the life of the deceased. After you’ve brainstormed for an hour or so, step back and look at what you’ve got, along with the notes you took when talking with family and friends. Look for descriptive items that can paint a picture in the mind of the audience. Select the stories and images that stand out as being really representative of the personality of the deceased.

• “Who was Bob Miller?” A son, a husband, a brother, a mechanic, a sports fan…
• “What makes a father special?” Giving you advice and letting you make mistakes on your own…
• “What would this town be without Martha Evans?” No meals on wheels, no arts and crafts club, kids who never learned how to read…

These themes ask a question. The question is answered by all the stories and memories you’ve collected. Other themes could be:

• “Courage in the face of adversity”
• “He will live on through…”,
• Metaphors, like “His life was like a garden”
• A loosely organized series of stories like ‘All I know about life I learned from fishing with dad.”

The themes are there if you look. Perhaps it’s:

• “The kitchen was the center of our family”
• “The seasons of her life”
• “He showed his love through his actions, not his words”
• “She taught us all the importance of thrift”
• “She taught us all the importance of having a good time”

If you have trouble coming up with a theme, take a look at the “Quotes,” “Readings,” “Scripture and Prayers” and other resources on this site for inspiration. Adding a quote or a reading to a eulogy can help organize your pieces and add another level and perspective to your piece, but don’t try to force your pieces together to fit the quote or reading. The honesty of the stories is more important that any theme, so if the important ideas don’t fit, choose a more loosely organized theme like:

• “All the different sides of Uncle Charlie,” or
• “What I learned from Mom”

You may find that more than one theme works best to present the material you have collected. That’s fine too. Your theme is important, but should be subordinate to your content. Ultimately, the overarching theme of any eulogy is simply “the life of this person was important to us.”

Step Four- Weave your eulogy together

Now is the time to put all you’ve got in order. Write the draft out just as you would say it. Use your normal conversational vocabulary and tone, and avoid fancy or unfamiliar language. Don’t feel compelled to turn your tribute into a poem. What is important is clearly expressing your thoughts. Trying to do that and rhyme at the same time can work at cross-purposes.

A funeral is not the time to ‘set the record straight’ on contentious or unresolved issues. That would be a help and comfort to no one. It is important to work through these issues, but not at the funeral. Your eulogy needs to be a kind and respectful tribute, and it can be honest in spirit without going into detail about shortcomings or attacking the deceased. If you feel that you cannot give your eulogy without announcing to the world that mother had a drinking problem, or that Uncle Rex was unfaithful to Aunt Betty, let someone else deliver it. Start out your eulogy with a statement of your theme; a quote or reading that illustrates your theme, or a story that does the same. Whatever your theme, think of it as an ‘argument’ that you ‘prove’ in the body of your eulogy. If your theme is a question, you will answer that question with various examples though your eulogy. Don’t be afraid of getting things exactly right at this stage, just get it all down, then take a break and come back to it with fresh eyes.

Step Five- Add and edit Does your eulogy make sense? Do your examples prove the point of your theme? Have you included the most important milestones in the person’s life? Have you included too many details? Would a quotation, a poem, or a prayer add something meaningful? Now is the time to make structural changes before you polish it all up. Think twice about anything that may be in questionable taste for a mixed audience, or may be too sensitive to discuss publicly. If you are in doubt about this, run it by someone you trust. Another important idea to keep in mind is that while the eulogy may mention many people including you, it needs to be focused on the deceased. If your eulogy mentions you more than the deceased there is a problem.

Step Six- Practice Once you are pleased with reading the eulogy over in your head, it’s time to read it aloud. Practice reading clearly and slowly; giving your audience enough time to hear and understand all your hard work. Practice and practice again. The more familiar you are with your piece, the easier it will be to catch yourself if you falter, to look up from your notes and engage with your audience, and to put feeling and emphasis into your speech. Time yourself to see if your piece is too long or too short. A good guide is about 15 minutes. If you go longer than 20 minutes, you may have overstepped your bounds. If your eulogy is shorter than 5 minutes, you may not have said enough.

Step Seven- When you deliver your eulogy, be sure to speak slowly and clearly. Make sure you have a copy of your eulogy written out in large enough type that you can read it easily. Keep a glass of water, a cough drop, and a handkerchief handy as well. If you falter, or are overcome with emotion, allow yourself to cry (no apologies are necessary) and resume reading when you can. Try to look at the audience at least occasionally, and at the family as much as you can. Feel free to gesture with your hands, but try not to fidget. If there is a microphone available, use it. Delivering a eulogy is a great honor. Friends and family will be forgiving of mistakes, and grateful to you for this gift. Throughout it all, remember that this is about the deceased, not about you. Most eulogies are prepared and delivered by people unaccustomed to writing and public speaking. Great oratory and profound insights are not expected, and are not even the point of a eulogy. What makes a great eulogy is a heartfelt message of love for the deceased, and stories reminding us of why we all share that love. If you deliver that message in a clear, straightforward manner, you will have succeeded.

How to Write & Deliver a Eulogy Speech

07 July 2020

What is a eulogy? It’s a speech given at a funeral or memorial service to honor a person’s life and tell their story. Whether you are asked to or you freely choose to, writing a eulogy is one of the greatest honors you will ever receive. After all, you are summarizing your experiences with a certain person at a celebration of their life. Your words will stick with the fellow mourners for years to come.

I remember the passing of my father and how one of his co-workers reflected on the fact they were flying on 9/11 together. With the news of the terrorist attacks, their flight was canceled, and they rented a car to travel back from their business trip together. It’s been more than four years and I still remember that particular eulogy very vividly.

But of course, whether you’re writing a eulogy for a friend or family member, it can put a lot of pressure on a person. You may fear not living up to expectations or doing a disservice to your loved one’s memory. Fear not, though. The key to writing a meaningful eulogy is to keep it honest, tactful, personal, and concise. And to thoroughly edit and practice before the actual memorial service.

Be honest.  If you were asked to write a eulogy, you were asked for good reason. Either you had a special connection to your loved one or you have a way of words that others may lack. So draw on your own experiences here; don’t muddy the eulogy with blanket statements that could apply to nearly anyone. If you have significant memories that stick out, capitalize on those. If you happened to go on a memorable vacation with them or remember laughing over a holiday dinner with them, incorporate those stories into the eulogy speech. Your memories will be a wealth of material and are sure to remind close friends and family members in the audience of their own experiences as well.

As well as being honest in your writing, be honest in your delivery, too. If you feel like getting emotional while speaking, don’t hold yourself back. People will expect some degree of emotion at a funeral, and it’s okay to cry if you feel like you can’t avoid it.

Be tactful.  Unfortunately, honesty can be a double-edged sword. Sensitivity and discernment in writing an eulogy are crucial. You don’t want to use this opportunity to bring up anything negative about the loved one. Don’t use it as a moment to air dirty laundry (“Remember that time Dad wouldn’t let me go to the concert and I ran away from home?” Save that anecdote for some other time). And if there is any content in your eulogy which may come off as offensive, scrap it. It’s not worth potentially alienating other people or triggering negative reactions in them. You don’t want people to walk away from the funeral service feeling worse.

Be personal.  Remember that, although you are thrust into the spotlight, the eulogy speech is about your loved one and not so much you .  Talk about the life of the deceased. Give factual details and also descriptions of their personality and outlook on life.  Don’t be afraid to touch upon your shared grief with the audience as well – it’s no secret that everyone at the funeral will be mourning in some form or another. But also don’t be afraid to inspire, either. Try to picture it this way: Your loved one would probably want their funeral to be a positive experience and would take great pride in knowing the impact they had on people during their life.

Be concise.  Don’t ramble in your memorial speech. This will be off-putting to your audience and result in an overall ineffective speech. Instead, keep your thoughts condensed and focused. It might help to actually outline the points you wish to capture before you do any extensive writing. Take the time to properly edit your work, too; you’ll be surprised by what you find after a few further reads. Anything that is not essential to the stories you are sharing should be cut. And if you can’t trust yourself to be truly objective, have a friend take a quick look at your eulogy writing for a more critical perspective.

There is no defined “word count” for an eulogy, but typically, delivery will span anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes. So it will help to run through it a few times to see where you clock in at. These are more arbitrary rules; if you feel like you can say what you need to say in a shorter span, that works, too. Sometimes a short but impactful eulogy can carry with it a special poignancy.

Delivering the Eulogy Speech

Delivering a eulogy is similar to any other form of public speaking, except a bit more meaningful than giving a speech at Toastmasters or a corporate presentation. Again, practicing beforehand will help guarantee a smoother presentation. Ensure you speak slowly and loudly, and enunciate your words. Bring a bottle of water with you if possible. And for practicing, you may want to enlist a small audience of two to three people to provide feedback.

Don’t let nerves get to you, either! Remember people are at the funeral service to commemorate the life of their loved one and that they want to hear what you have to say. With some practice and editing, you’ll be prepared to share your stories in the most fitting and touching way.

Only one part of a holistic tribute.  There are other elements to account for when it comes to a funeral that are equally important. One of those elements is funeral cards and programs, which can contain portions of the eulogies as well. All of these elements – from eulogies to flower arrangements to programs – play an undeniably important role in commemorating the life of your loved one.

• Prayer Cards
• Funeral Programs
• Memorial Bookmarks
• Funeral Posters
• Funeral Sign In Books
• Funeral Service Invitations
• Memorial Announcements
• Memorial Blankets
• Memorial Ornaments

Related Posts

• Composing A Funeral Thank You Card
• How To Make Prayer Cards

How to Deliver a Eulogy

Let’s talk about delivering the eulogy speech at a funeral.

A friend or loved one of yours has just passed away. You have been approached and asked to give the eulogy at his or her memorial service. Of course you agree to do so; what an honor it would be!

While it’s no easy task to write and deliver a eulogy, you are determined to do it, and do it well.

Well, you have come to the right place!

I’m a professional eulogy writer, ready to help you write and deliver your eulogy with confidence and grace. With experience in writing, editing, and the funeral industry, I’m qualified and equipped to help you with your loved one’s eulogy.

Below, I break down into simple steps how to create and also how to deliver a eulogy. I also provide tried-and-true tips for successfully speaking it at the funeral. In just 10 steps, we will be looking at The Preparation of your eulogy, as well as The Oration .

Let’s dive in.

10 Steps for How to Deliver a Eulogy

• Get your thoughts on paper.
• Look at examples of other eulogies.
• Write your rough draft.
• Get feedback from family or friends.
• Practice speaking your eulogy.
• Make a final copy.
• Pick someone to be your support person.
• Take your time.
• Do not worry about crying.
• Be yourself.

Part I: The Preparation

Before you can present your eulogy, of course you must first prepare it. What should you write about? How long does it have to be? Should you make it serious or add a touch of humor? Let’s take a look.

1. Get your thoughts on paper

Take a pen and paper (or your computer or a tablet) and write out all your thoughts. When someone you love very much passes away, your mind is suddenly flooded with memories of them. Some of these memories you may not have thought about in a very long time.

Urns Made in the USA

It really helps to transfer these memories from your mind to the paper. It’s easier to get your thoughts in order on paper, and writing can also help relieve the sadness you’re feeling.

2. Look at examples of other eulogies

There are plenty of resources available online with examples of eulogies. There are many famous eulogies as well as those from everyday people, several of which can be found on YouTube.

As a professional eulogy writer, I also have a few examples for you to look over right here .

3. Write your rough draft

Here’s a simple 4-step plan for writing your eulogy.

• Introduction. First, briefly introduce yourself by stating your relationship to the deceased. Then follow with a mini biography of your loved one. This can include their birthday, family members, where they were raised, went to school, were married, etc.
• Stories and memories. Next, write any positive memories you have of your loved one that you would like to share. Let your audience know who your loved one was (what made them them ). What was their life story? How were they around their best friend or significant other? What were their accomplishments, what were they most proud of in life? How did he or she help others?
• Say thanks. After the life story and special memories, it’s time to say “thank you.” Was there a person or community, like a doctor or hospice, who cared for the deceased in their final days? Now is the perfect time in your eulogy to acknowledge them.
• Closing. Finally, it’s time to say good-bye. This part of your eulogy will not be easy to write, nor will it be easy to speak. But it’s necessary for not only you, but for your audience to know that your speech is just about over.

Most completed eulogies consist of around 1,000 words, but this is not a rule by any means. With this word count, you can expect for it to take you approximately eight minutes to read.

As for the tone of your eulogy, it can be humorous or serious, or both. You knew your loved one, so you know best what is and isn’t appropriate to honor their legacy. Keep in mind your audience; you don’t want to go overboard with humor. Strive for balance.

More: How to Write a Eulogy

4. Get feedback on your speech

Once you’ve finished writing your eulogy’s rough draft, ask a trusted friend or family member to look over it. A pair of fresh eyes can locate any grammatical errors or irregularities that you may have overlooked.

5. Practice

The old saying is that practice makes perfect, but there’s really no such thing as perfect. It’s best not to place this kind of pressure on yourself when you are about to speak at a funeral.

Still, you’ll want to do your best. Practice your eulogy at least a couple of times before the day of the funeral. This will help you tremendously if you are nervous about speaking in front of a large group of people.

Practice does not always make perfect, but it does make better. Rehearse your speech in front of a couple of friends or relatives, or in front of a mirror.

6. Make a final copy

After you’ve put in some practice on your eulogy, it’s time to create the final copy. Write or print it out, and consider making keepsake copies for others who come to the funeral.

As mentioned above, I write eulogies for a living. If all this is just too much for you right now, I am able to help. Please see here to learn more.

Part II: The Oration

Now it’s time to focus on actually delivering this eulogy that you have worked so hard to write.

7. Pick someone to be your support person

Among your trusted family or friends, pick just one who you know will be in attendance at the funeral. Have them sit close to where you will be speaking, and give them a copy of your eulogy.

This way, in the instance that you become emotional or otherwise need help finishing your eulogy, they will be available assist. At the very least this will be someone who you can look at for an encouraging smile.

8. Take your time

When you’re speaking in front of a large group, it can be very tempting to rush through what you’re saying. Of course, rushing can make it difficult for your listeners to follow you, so you’ll want to avoid this.

Speak slowly and be sure to properly enunciate each word. This will keep your audience with you and also keep your eulogy within a proper time frame.

9. Don’t worry about crying

Most people don’t want to cry during the eulogy.

My number 1 tip for this is… just don’t worry about it! While it’s normal to be hesitant to show emotion in front of others, it’s perfectly fine to. Especially  at a funeral. There is not a soul in the room who is going to judge you for tearing up.

That said, practicing your eulogy beforehand can help you to determine where at in your speech you are most likely to become emotional.

Take a deep, refreshing breath before you get to those parts. This can help you to keep your mind clear. Also take a glance at your support person if you have one. Eye contact with them can bring you comfort and confidence.

More tips: How to Deliver a Eulogy Without Crying

10. Be yourself

You know your own comfort levels when it comes to public speaking. Some people are improvisation masters, and think it’s easier to give a speech off the top of their heads! Others choose to speak from memory.

If you need to read the entire time from notes, not looking up even once at your audience, that is perfectly acceptable as well.

Bring a water bottle to the service, take a sip before you go up, and remember to breathe.

Ultimately, be yourself, and you’ll do just fine. You do you!

Do you feel that you need more help with the writing portion of your eulogy? I write eulogies for a living and would be honored to assist you. Get in touch with me today here .

Read next: The Best Quotes to Include in Your Eulogy

Aubrey Bauer

Aubrey is a lifelong writer who has served in the funeral industry since 2016. After graduating from Dallas Institute of Funeral Service, she knew she wanted to continue to serve families through her writing, but didn’t know how. Soon after,...

1 thought on “How to Deliver a Eulogy”

While you may think you can handle delivering a eulogy, you never know exactly how you’ll feel until you step up to the pulpit and stand in front of the mourners and guests. Funerals are charged with emotion, and it’s natural to have an outpouring of grief.

Leave a Comment

Top Resources

Cremation Urn Basics

Cremation FAQ

Considering Cremation?

What to Do with Ashes

Learning Center

Cremation Urns

Cremation Process

Funeral Planning

Burial & Cemeteries

More REsources

Latest Articles

Sympathy & Support

Grief & Loss

Memorial Ideas

How to Order

Shipping & Returns

Wholesale Program

Sell with Us

Vendor Application

Vendor Login

Vendor Resources

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

PHone / 850 462 4240

© USURNSONLINE.COM

6252 Confederate Drive Pensacola, FL 32503

• Premium Eulogy Writing Service
• Eulogy Guide
• Eulogy For a Husband Example
• Eulogy For a Wife Example
• Eulogy For a Mum Example
• Eulogy For a Dad Example
• Eulogy For a Grandfather Example
• Eulogy For a Friend Example
• Eulogy For a Brother Example
• Eulogy For a Sister Example
• Eulogy For a Son Example
• Eulogy For a Daughter Example
• Eulogy For a Work Colleague Example
• Eulogy For a Aunt Example
• Eulogy For a Uncle Example
• Eulogy For a Boyfriend Example
• Eulogy For a Girlfriend Example
• Cremation Services in USA
• Cremation Services in UK

Professional Eulogy Writing

Eulogy writing guide, funeral speeches for a work colleague, tribute speech to dad from daughter, funeral speech writing advice, how to deliver a eulogy speech.

• February 17, 2024

Losing a loved one is never easy, and the task of delivering a eulogy speech during the funeral can be a daunting and emotional experience. In this guide, we help you navigate through the process of preparing and delivering a heartfelt, memorable eulogy that will honour the life and legacy of your loved one.

Are you struggling to write a meaningful eulogy during this difficult time?  Our professional eulogy writing service can help you honour your loved one in less than 48 hours, with no additional stress. We help you preserve the legacy of a cherished life, in your time of grief. Find out more →

Table of Contents

Understand the Purpose of a Eulogy

Example eulogy speech, preparation is key, structure your eulogy, practice makes perfect, speak from the heart, frequently asked questions.

A eulogy is a speech given at a funeral to honour and celebrate the life of a deceased loved one. The purpose of a eulogy is to share personal stories, memories, and character traits that illustrate the unique qualities of the individual and the impact they had on others.

Before you start writing your eulogy, it is essential to take some time to gather your thoughts and memories. It may help to speak with family members and friends in order to gather stories and reminiscences that will paint a heartfelt picture of your loved one.

• Reflect on the person's life, achievements, and passions
• Collect personal stories and anecdotes from friends and family
• Consider any quotes, poems, or religious passages that were meaningful to your loved one or to your relationship

A well-organized eulogy can make it easier to deliver and help you stay focused during an emotional speech. Consider the following structure when writing your eulogy:

• Introduction : Begin by introducing yourself and your relationship to the deceased.
• Personal stories and anecdotes : Share stories of your loved one that highlights their character traits, achievements, and passions.
• Readings or quotes : Include any selected poems, quotes, or religious passages that hold special meaning
• Conclusion : End by expressing your gratitude for the time shared and the impact the person had on the lives of others. You may also want to provide a comforting message to help console those in attendance.

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. Alongside the pressure of delivering a meaningful tribute in front of other funeral guests.

Let our expert Funeral Speech Writers create a heartfelt & personalized eulogy, that captures the amazing life and memories of your loved one.

Learn more about our Professional Eulogy Writing Service today, and see how we can help you.

Once your eulogy is written, it is important to practice delivering it out loud. This will help you become more comfortable with the content and flow of your speech. Practice will also provide you with the opportunity to make any necessary changes or adjustments before the actual funeral service.

When delivering the eulogy, speak from the heart and give yourself permission to be emotional. It is natural to feel nervous and emotional when delivering a eulogy, but remember that those in attendance are there to support you during this difficult time.

How To Deliver A Eulogy Speech Example:

Introduction: Good morning, my name is [Your Name], and I am honoured to be here today to celebrate the life of my dear friend, [Deceased's Name]. I have known [Deceased's Name] for over 20 years, and they have been an inspiration and source of strength in my life.

Personal stories and anecdotes: I remember when I first met [Deceased's Name] in college. Their infectious laugh and zest for life made an immediate impression on me. [Deceased's Name] always had a way of making everyone feel special. They were not only a great listener, but they had the ability to make everyone around them feel heard and valued.

Readings or quotes: [Deceased's Name] had a favourite poem that they often quoted when we needed some extra encouragement or a reminder to seize the day. It's by Robert Frost and goes like this -

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

Conclusion: I am grateful to have had the privilege of knowing [Deceased's Name] and for the countless memories we shared. Their spirit and impact on our lives will live on through the lessons they taught us and the love they generously gave. Though they may no longer be with us, their legacy will always remain in our hearts.

What is a eulogy speech?

A eulogy speech is a formal address given at a funeral or memorial service to celebrate and honor the life of the deceased. It usually reflects on the personality, experiences, and the impact the person had on others.

Who is typically responsible for giving a eulogy?

Usually, a close family member, friend, or religious leader delivers the eulogy. However, this can vary, and multiple people may share the responsibility.

How long should a eulogy be?

A eulogy typically lasts between five and ten minutes. It should be long enough to pay tribute to the deceased but short enough to maintain the audience's attention.

Should a eulogy be written in advance?

Yes, it is advisable to write and prepare your eulogy in advance. This allows you to organize your thoughts and deliver a coherent and thoughtful speech.

Is it okay to read a eulogy from a paper?

Yes, it's perfectly acceptable to read a eulogy from a paper. In fact, having a written text can provide a sense of comfort and ensure you don't forget what you want to say during an emotional time.

What should I include in a eulogy?

A eulogy can include personal anecdotes, accomplishments, values, and the important relationships of the deceased. It should provide a meaningful snapshot of their life.

Can I include humor in a eulogy?

Yes, if it's appropriate and aligns with the personality of the deceased, humor can be a warm and fitting addition to a eulogy.

What tone should a eulogy have?

The tone of a eulogy should be respectful and reverent, yet it can also be celebratory and uplifting as it honors the life of the person who has passed away.

How do I begin a eulogy?

Begin with a brief introduction of yourself and your relationship with the deceased. Then, consider opening with a significant quote or anecdote that sets the tone for your homage.

How do I handle my emotions while delivering a eulogy?

It's natural to be emotional. Take deep breaths, pause when needed, and bring a handkerchief or tissues with you. Remember, it's okay to show emotion during a eulogy.

Is it appropriate to share negative aspects of the deceased’s life?

Focus on the positive aspects and remember that a eulogy is a time to honor the deceased. It is generally considered inappropriate to share negative details during a eulogy.

How can I practice delivering the eulogy?

Practice reading your eulogy aloud several times before the service, ideally in front of a mirror or to a trusted friend or family member for feedback.

What if I become too emotional and cannot continue?

If you become overwhelmed, pause for a moment to collect yourself. It's also helpful to have a backup person who can step in to finish reading the eulogy if necessary.

Are there any common eulogy phrases or openings I should use?

Common openings include reflecting on the meaning of life and death, sharing a favorite memory, or a simple expression of the sense of loss felt. Choose phrases that feel genuine to you and your relationship with the deceased.

Can I involve other people in the eulogy?

Absolutely. You can invite others to contribute stories or quotes, or you can even co-deliver the eulogy with someone else if it feels appropriate.

What should I wear when delivering a eulogy?

Wear attire that is respectful and appropriate for the tone and setting of the funeral service. It's best to choose subdued and conservative clothing.

What if I make a mistake while delivering the eulogy?

It's okay to make mistakes. Simply correct yourself and continue. The audience will understand that delivering a eulogy is a difficult task.

Should I thank the attendees in the eulogy?

It is a thoughtful gesture to acknowledge the attendees and thank them for their support and for coming to pay their respects.

How do I end a eulogy?

Conclude by summarizing the essence of the deceased’s life, perhaps with a touching story or inspirational quote. Then, end with a final farewell or a moment of silence.

Can I include religious content in a eulogy?

If the deceased was a religious person or if the family wishes, including religious content, scriptures, or prayers is appropriate. Make sure to align with the beliefs of the deceased and their family.

What if I'm too nervous to deliver the eulogy?

Consider asking someone else to deliver the eulogy on your behalf. Remember, the important thing is that the tribute comes from the heart, regardless of who speaks the words.

How can I personalize a eulogy?

Personalize a eulogy by sharing personal memories, using the deceased's favorite sayings, or mentioning their favorite hobbies, music, or books.

What should I do after I've delivered the eulogy?

After delivering the eulogy, you can return to your seat and take some time for personal reflection. If you're up to it, you might also support others who may be struggling with their grief.

Is it acceptable to ask for help in writing a eulogy?

Yes, seeking help from friends, family, or online resources in writing a eulogy is perfectly acceptable. It can be helpful to gather different perspectives and recollections.

We hope that this guide has provided you with valuable insight into crafting and delivering a eulogy speech that honours your loved one. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and Eulogy Assistant is here to help with more resources, guides, and support. If you found this article helpful, please feel free to share it and explore other guides on our platform.

Looking For Examples? Here Are Some of The Best Eulogies

• Login / Register

• Find a Club
• Start a Club
• Toggle Search

Delivering a Heartfelt Farewell

Tips for giving a meaningful eulogy..

By Tammy A. Miller, DTM

Being asked to write and/or deliver a eulogy can be one of the most rewarding yet difficult tasks you will face. Sometimes it’s an easy task, a labor of love, and the words flow; other times, it’s overwhelming, as emotions and memories flood the page. Often, it’s a combination of many thoughts.

A eulogy is an oral or written piece honoring a person’s life. As the presenter, you want people to walk away feeling better about the person, or wishing they knew them better. Often, the service may be the last or only time the person is publicly honored.

Writing a eulogy can be a daunting task. It helps to approach it like you would any good presentation, doing some homework and researching ahead of time. Four elements—purpose, structure, tone, and length—can help you put the thoughts together for a smoother flow and a more memorable experience for everyone listening.

Determine the Purpose of the Eulogy

Will you be the only one speaking about the person or will others as well? For example, an officiant may give statistical details (birth, family, background), and you may be asked to illuminate a more personal side of the person. Or you may be the only one giving the formal eulogy and need to include some background information in your presentation.

You’ll want to determine what role faith plays in your purpose. Some religions and churches have very strict rules about what the clergy can and cannot say, as well as who can deliver a eulogy if the service is conducted within the church. The family isn’t always aware of this aspect, so you might want to check with the clergy personally.

Writing and delivering a eulogy may be the hardest presentation you ever make.

Maybe you don’t know the person very well—perhaps you are the officiant, or the family asked you to deliver the eulogy because they know you are a good speaker. In that case, try to meet with a few key family members and friends and draw out their memories and stories. Questions might include: What are your favorite memories of this person? How did they impact your life and the lives of others? What did you admire about the person? You generally don’t need a lot of questions—just a few that will get the conversation started.

Find a Structure for Your Story

Like any good speech, a strong eulogy will benefit from a solid structure. Begin by brainstorming all that you could say about the person, then narrow it down to a few points and apply an appropriate structure, and even a theme if you feel it fits. You might find it easier to structure the speech by providing a timeline of the person’s life or by highlighting two to four life stories that have meaning to you and the audience.

Another consideration is what I call a “community to me” structure, one that is both far-reaching and very personal. I chose this structure for my dearest friend’s eulogy. As a professional speaker and instructor for over 30 years, I have delivered many presentations on a wide variety of topics, some lightweight and fun, and some very serious in nature. Easily the most difficult presentation I have made to date was the eulogy for my best friend for more than 50 years, Suzanne.

She asked me to present at her funeral, and of course I was honored and humbled, and also hopeful that the time really wouldn’t come, that a miracle would be performed, and the need would never arise. But that wasn’t the case. On one hand it was extremely difficult, yet on the other it was a true labor of love.

For Suzanne’s eulogy, I chose three points with a common theme of “Suzanne was love.” The first point encompassed the love she had for the community of people around her. Not necessarily her family and close friends but her involvement within her community, her church friends, and her coworkers, along with a related story.

The second point was the love she had for her family and friends, including her loving husband, children, and siblings, along with a related story. Finally, the most personal part was our relationship as best friends for over 50 years and why it was so easy to identify Suzanne as love, because that was the very core of her being, and I wanted to relay what her friendship meant to me over all those years.

I chose a couple of brief personal stories that touched on her love of laughter and some funny moments we shared. This type of structure also ensures that everyone in the audience is included while honoring and memorializing the person. You can speak in a conversational, heartfelt manner.

Set the Right Tone

To help settle on a tone, reflect on the following: Have you been asked to speak on behalf of the family? If so, what tone do they prefer? Some people want somber, some want joy and laughter, some want just the facts. Have you been asked to speak from a personal relationship with the person? If so, what was your relationship like and how does that direct the tone?

Did the person suffer through a long illness where there is now relief? Was it a sudden accident or suicide? Was the person young or old? While these are considerations, the eulogy focuses on how the person lived .

There is also the consideration of faith in the life and death of the person. For example, if the person was a Christian and the promise of heaven awaits them upon their death, the tone may be joyous. Other faiths have different beliefs about life after death. Maybe faith isn’t a consideration in the tone at all.

When appropriate, humor can play a major role in the tone of the entire eulogy. I recently delivered a eulogy for a woman who was 99 years old. She was more than ready to join her husband of 65 years who had preceded her in death. My friend loved to laugh, enjoyed life, and had a wonderful mischievous spirit that was contagious to everyone around her. While we were sad to see her pass, everyone in the room knew she was ready to go. Her eulogy was filled with funny stories. When her friends were asked to say a few words in memory of her, the theme of mischief and fun continued throughout the entire room. It was truly a celebration of her long life and her uncanny ability to befriend everyone she met.

Consider the Length

The suggested length for a stand-alone eulogy, one that doesn’t offer background information, is four to six minutes. However, if part of your role is to offer the factual obituary information, the speech may be slightly longer, but still not over 10 minutes. Remember, people aren’t there to hear you speak but to honor the person who died.

Remember, people aren’t there to hear you speak but to honor the person who died.

Share this article

Related articles.

Presentation Skills

It's a Special Occasion

Maureen Zappala, DTM, AS

Using My Skills to Honor My Family

Memorializing my cousin online allowed me to provide comfort.

Caren S. Neile, Ph.D.

Learn more about the award-winning publication.

About magazine.

Discover more about the award-winning publication.

Magazine FAQ

Answers to your common magazine questions.

Submissions

How to submit an article query, photo, or story idea.

Meet the editorial team.