what to include in a eulogy speech

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How to write a eulogy.

One of the most challenging parts of funeral planning is writing a fitting tribute to your loved one.

How can you find the words to capture just how much your friend or family member means to you? It’s harder still because you’re grieving, so emotions are running high, concentration is low, and the pressure may be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this guide on how to write a eulogy, complete with examples to get you started. 

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How to write a eulogy – 6 tips

An example structure.

• Eulogy for a parent
• Eulogy for a sibling
• Eulogy for a grandparent
• Eulogy for a friend

More eulogy examples

What is a eulogy.

A eulogy is a short speech given at a funeral or memorial service for a person who has died. The tradition originates from ancient Greece, and the word literally means “praise”. The key is to write the eulogy in a way that does their life justice and respects their loved ones’ memories and feelings of grief.

Who should deliver a eulogy?

Speaking about someone who has died in front of their family and friends is a courageous thing to do. If you feel daunted by the prospect, ask people around you for support. While a close relative or friend usually writes the funeral speech, it can also be delivered by an official, such as a religious leader. Do what feels right and keep it flexible. For example, if you want to write the eulogy but worry about breaking down in tears , ask someone else to be on standby to read it for you if need be.

1. Make it personal

Introducing yourself in relation to the person you are remembering can be a good place to start. Describe what they meant to you, and what qualities defined them in your eyes. This will establish a connection with other people at the service and put you in the picture for those who might not know you very well.

2. Cover the essentials

When thinking about how to write a eulogy, it’s a good idea to structure it with a beginning, a middle and an end. And while it is not the same as an obituary, it usually includes brief aspects of the late person’s life, such as their early beginnings, their education and career, and particular skills, achievements or interests. Saying something specific about their family life, and mentioning their partner and/or children by name, can feel particularly important to their closest relatives.

3. Get personal stories from others

Just like our relationships with a particular person differ, so do our feelings about them when they die . To make sure you write a good eulogy that will feel meaningful to others, ask a few close friends or relatives to contribute by sharing a favourite memory, personal story, or anecdote . A range of perspectives will enrich your speech and help strike the right tone right with your audience. You might also discover a true gem in the process, like a beautiful quote that perfectly captures your loved one’s personality, qualities, and quirks.

4. Consider the length

How long should a eulogy be? Some funeral speeches are very brief and there are no set rules for length, but 3-5 minutes is common. Make it long enough to properly honour the person and say what needs to be said, in proportion to the rest of the funeral service. To get it right, try reading it out loud a few times while timing yourself and editing accordingly.

5. Make it honest

It is possible to talk about someone’s achievements and qualities without glorifying them and mention shortcomings or disappointments in a kind and accepting way. None of us are perfect, and we remember those we have lost in all their human complexity. Follow your instincts, even using some gentle humour if it feels right and relevant. And if you’re not sure, ask someone else for their honest feedback before you finalise your eulogy.

6. End on a touching note

Ending a eulogy on the right note can be tricky. One option is to finish with a poem or quote that feels consoling and meaningful, even if it happens to come from a movie such as Pretty Woman or Lord of the Rings ! You might find inspiration in famous eulogies, such as Matthew’s tribute to his partner Gareth in Four Weddings and a Funeral , Oprah Winfrey’s speech for Rosa Parks, Mona Simpson remembering her brother Steve Jobs, or in books and online quote collections.

Real eulogy examples

With the tips above, a ‘template’ for your loved one’s eulogy starts to come together. But if you’re not quite sure how to structure it, here’s a framework you can follow when you start writing:

Introduction :

• Give a brief background on the person who has died. Mention any nicknames they might have had; talk about their work or the things that were most important to them.
• Mention your relationship to them and what they meant to you and others. 
• Talk about some of their best qualities and values they held dear. 

Mid-section:

• You might want to include an anecdote here. Depending on the tone, you could make this funny, heart-warming, and/or even inspirational. 
• Dive deeper into the things they cared about most : this could be family, friends, a pet or even a hobby. 
• Cover their biggest accomplishments or life events. If they have a partner and/or kids, talk about them. You could even speak directly to them in parts.
• Capture what that person meant to others. This would be a good place to add personal stories or short quotes from their friends and family members.
• Start closing the eulogy with a final takeaway , whether it’s a saying your loved one often used or something that ties back to the eulogy’s overall theme. 
• At this point, you could speak directly to the loved one you have lost, and tell them ‘thank you’ and that you love them. 
• You could also thank those at the funeral or memorial service for being there, and remind them how much your loved one admired them all. 
• Think about ending with a quote, a poem, or a lyric from your loved one’s favourite song. You can keep it short and meaningful, a touching end to a funeral speech.

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Eulogy example for a parent

Talk about: 

• What your mother or father meant to you and your siblings
• What they did both for your family and a living
• How they raised you and the values they passed on
• Funny stories or touching memories that you’ll always remember
• Something they once told you or a saying they had
• The people who meant the most to them

Example eulogy:

My dad was my hero. No matter how busy things got, he always made time for the people he cared about, and showed us that family always comes first – no matter what. Everyone who knew him knew how proud he was of the people he loved, of his dog, Buddy, and of his car… of course. You never had to ask what he was doing on a Sunday – he’d be outside washing the car again . 

I’m going to miss my dad so much, but I’m grateful for the wonderful memories I have of him. The happy trips to Cornwall when we were kids, the walks we used to go on, even just sitting on the sofa watching TV together. He made everything fun, and he knew just how precious our time on Earth is. He was always reminding me and my sisters to “enjoy life”, and that’s what he did, every day. 

I know a lot of you will be feeling as heartbroken as I am right now, and I also know that if there was anything my dad wanted me to say today, it’s this: thank you, to all of you. Everyone sitting here today meant so much to him; his work friends, his childhood friends, his whole family. He often talked about how lucky he was to have you all. I hope he knew how lucky we were to have him too. I love you Dad, thank you for being the best father we could have ever hoped for. 

Eulogy examples for a sibling

There will never be enough words to sum up my big sister. She was funny, kind, smart, determined… In the eyes of me and my parents, she lit up every room she walked into. [Name] threw herself at every opportunity – she never did anything by halves. When she was 21, she signed up for the marathon because she’d seen some running shoes she liked – and, of course, she smashed it. When she was 26, she went to the dog shelter ‘just to take a look’, and came home with two pups, Charlie and Bubbles, who adored her. 

So it was no surprise that she took so naturally to becoming a mum. I can’t describe the joy of seeing [Name] raise her two girls – my two favourite people – with the same care and kindness she had always shown me as her little sister. They were her pride and joy, and there is so much of [Name] in both of them. They share her generosity, fierce loyalty, flawless sense of style, and quick wit. [Kids’ names], I know nothing will ever erase the heartbreak of losing your mum, but I hope you know that we are all here for you always. 

[Name] was also a brilliant friend. She knew anyone and everyone. Sometimes it felt like there was nowhere we could go where she wouldn’t bump into at least one person who saw how brilliant she was. People were drawn to her, and her passion for life. But no matter how many friends she made, she’d never be without her best ones: Amy and Scott. She loved you both so much, and your wild stories will live on forever. 

[Name], thank you for everything. For being the life of the party, for always knowing how to make us all laugh, and for showing us how to live life to the fullest. There will never be a day we don’t miss you, but we’ll carry your love wherever we go, and your girls will never stop hearing stories about their magical mum.

Eulogy examples for a grandparent

• Your grandmother or grandfather’s life and the people they loved
• Their personality, their humour and their values
• The role they played in your upbringing
• Heartwarming memories of time spent with them

There was nobody funnier or more quick-witted than my grandmother. She was a force of nature who never failed to surprise people with her sharp one-liners and her teasing sense of humour. But she was also incredibly warm and kind. I’ll never forget our visits, Frank Sinatra playing in her living room, bowls of sweets on every surface, and her asking me, “so, what’s the latest gossip?”

She loved to chat, travel and see friends. Nan had a more active social life than anyone I know, and was always the ‘hostess with the mostest’, finding literally any reason to throw a party. Her love for her family was such a gift; something that my brother, parents, cousins, aunts, uncles and I were so lucky to experience every day. 

But Nan’s love for people didn’t just stay in her family. She was extremely charitable, hosting fundraisers, volunteering at charity shops, and offering help to anyone in need. When our grandad passed, she dedicated so much of her time TO raising money for the hospice that looked after him, as well as the RNLI in tribute to his time as a lifeguard. 

My nan and grandad’s love is something my brother, cousins and I all aspire to. Their adoration for one another was clear, and I can still hear them singing together in the kitchen. I like to think that now they’re finally back together again, having a song and a dance and big knees up. We love you Nan – thank you for everything.

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Eulogy example for a friend

• How you met your friend and what your first impressions were
• What made them such a wonderful friend
• Their passions and hobbies
• Their other friends and family
• Funny stories or memorable anecdotes

I’ll never forget the first time I met [Name]. I’d just moved into our halls at uni and found him in the kitchen, wearing nothing but a towel, panicking because he’d flooded his shower on day one. I quickly realised that these kinds of mishaps followed him pretty much everywhere, from the time he turned up at the airport three weeks late for a flight, to when his dog really did eat his coursework. There was always a story with [Name].

But beneath the constant jokes, mayhem and penchant for Hawaiian shirts, [Name] had the best heart. He was a true friend who backed all of us – even when we were definitely in the wrong! [Name] was the first person who called me when my dad passed away, the most dedicated best man at 3(!) of our friends’ weddings, and when he found [partner’s name], he became the most devoted boyfriend and fiancé. 

Anyone who knew [Name] knew how much he adored [partner’s name], how strong his bond was with his brothers, and how he loved nothing more than a hungover Sunday roast at his parents’ house. We’ll all miss him terribly, but it’s impossible not to smile when we think of him. [Name], you were a true friend. We’ll keep on making mischief in your honour.

The short eulogy examples above will have hopefully given you some inspiration on how you can structure your loved one’s funeral speech or the kinds of things you can talk about. We also wanted to share some well-known examples to give you extra ideas to work with. Here are a few that have stuck with us, and might help you too:

• Mona Simpson’s eulogy for her brother Steve Jobs
• Stacey Heale’s eulogy for her late husband Greg
• Eight-year-old Bindi Irwin’s eulogy for her dad Steve Irwin
• Kate Rothschild’s eulogy for her 15-year-old daughter Iris Goldsmith
• John Cleese’s eulogy written for George Chapman

Looking for more advice on dealing with a loss? Read our guide on what to say when someone dies . If you’re planning a funeral, our round-up of the most popular funeral songs will also be useful to you.

For more advice and to connect with others who share a similar experience of loss, download the Untangle Grief app .

Related events

Keeping the memories alive

During this workshop, Lisa will create a space to bring people together, through storytelling about a lost loved one. Stories are a great way to connect with others, and telling stories about our loved ones can keep their memory, and your memories of them, alive.

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How To Write A Eulogy That Honors Your Loved One’s Life

When a person dies, their body may pass away, but memories of them live on in the hearts and minds of family and friends. A eulogy given at a funeral by someone who knew them well offers insights about them that go far beyond what an obituary can capture.

Usually delivered by a family member or close friend, t he eulogy brings the facts about the person captured in their obituary to life. Often the high point of a funeral or memorial service, a well-done eulogy provides a lasting memory to the family.

Delivering a good eulogy requires curating the life of the deceased and pulling out certain memories that define the person. A friend or relative who takes on this task must have personal knowledge of the one who has passed on, be prepared to spend some time organizing the stories and their shared experience, and craft everything into a brief speech.

Table of Contents

How Is A Eulogy Different From An Obituary?

A eulogy sounds similar to an obituary, but there are many differences. The obituary and the eulogy start with the same facts, but the purpose and delivery are different.

An obituary aims to inform others about the death, whether it takes the form of a short death notice or a longer piece included in the funeral program or sometimes printed in the newspaper. Death notices may only run for a day in the newspaper, while many obituaries live on in digital memorial spaces. Eulogies are delivered live at a service but may be captured in a video stream of a funeral service .

Both an obituary and a eulogy recount key points of the deceased’s life story. While an obituary lists highlights of the person’s life in chronological order, a eulogy represents the point of view of the person giving it and may focus on specific details . For example, if Betsy Jones was known for her kindness, the eulogy might be heavy on fond memories that illustrated this trait.

Sharing anecdotes offers the audience encourages the audience to think of times when Betsy reached out to them with a kind word, offered $20 when they needed it, or went down to the food bank to pack food for the needy. As the eulogy speech only lasts a few minutes, it cannot include every story about Betsy’s thoughtfulness, but a few examples will bring home the point.

Structuring The Eulogy

There are different ways to approach writing an obituary. The structure of a eulogy is not much different than any other piece of writing with an introduction, middle section, and conclusion.

• The introduction sets the tone, presents your relationship to the deceased, and starts with a good story or two.
• The middle section gives a brief life history, a few memories of the person, and the legacy they will leave.
• The conclusion closes out the eulogy and says goodbye to your loved one.

How To Write A Eulogy In 8 Steps

A eulogy is highly personalized and will differ depending on who is giving it and who it is for. A husband giving one for his late wife will give a different speech from one that a son might give for his mom or that a long-time friend might give for her old schoolmate. The tone might be different for someone who died at 85 after a long illness vs. a man who suddenly died in an accident at 40.

In selecting a eulogist for the funeral, the family should think about:

• The tone that would best represent the personality of the deceased
• The person most likely to carry it off

The eulogist has some discretion in setting the tone, so the family should go with someone who is comfortable with public speaking, who knew the departed well, and who is not so paralyzed by grief that they would be unable to pull it off.

If you are chosen to give the eulogy at a loved one’s funeral, here is a eulogy template to follow:

1.     Decide on the tone

Though a eulogy marks a sad occasion, the tone can vary from serious to religious to lighthearted. The speaker doesn’t have to announce the tone, but it should be rapidly apparent.

After setting your tone, find a theme that characterized their life – i,e, kindness, attention to detail, faithfulness, sense of humor, or other qualities you want to describe the person. The speech is short, so narrow down what you will talk about.

“Uncle Bob was an actuary, a profession not known for producing knee-slapping comedy. Though he was excellent at his job, anyone who knew Bob Marcus quickly realized that he could find the humor in anything.”

2.     Introduce yourself and make it clear why you are giving the eulogy

In a brief introduction, you should let the audience know why you are giving the presentation. Was the deceased your best friend? Brother-in-law? Co-worker for 40 years? Child? Sibling? Grandchild?

“I’m Alma’s eldest granddaughter, who picked blueberries with her from my earlier days. Knowing her set the tone for my entire life and contributed to my extensive library of blueberry recipes.”

“Henry had a contagious sense of humor. I should know. As his best friend, I have laughed my way through the last 30 years.

3.     Provide a brief biography of the person’s life

The eulogy starts out with a brief overview of the life of the deceased as a framework for what follows. Good eulogy writing hits the milestones of their life while injecting the essence of the person fleshed out with funny stories and examples of their personality traits.

“John was born in Cleveland, OH, but his career as an engineer took him to many cities over the years. No matter where he was, he spent his days designing electrical systems and his nights and days off rewiring friends’ homes and doing lighting and sound for his church and community events.”

4.     Include any favorite memories

Including memories of the deceased is what makes a eulogy stand out from an obituary.

As the speech is short, a few examples can illustrate your theme.

“My sister Sarah was one of the most generous people I ever knew. She would make delicious baked goods for every family event, work party, picnic, and funeral no matter what it cost her in time and money. Yet, she once argued for hours to get a car payment that saved her 18 cents a month.”

5.     Make it clear how knowing the person improved your life

Whether you loved the deceased or hated them, you should emphasize their good qualities.

“Mom’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with lung cancer. Her positive attitude throughout her treatments cheered up fellow patients in the clinic and was a great example to all of us kids about how to endure when times are tough.

6.     Organize your material so it flows in an interesting manner

As a eulogy is 6-8 minutes, 10 minutes tops, organizing the material is key to its success. No matter what the tone or how interesting the stories are, the speech must move logically and quickly.

“Mrs. Redstone was an engaging teacher who loved her students. I was so shy, but she taught me to be confident in expressing myself. She excelled in bringing out the best in anyone who graced her classroom.”

7.     Express gratitude from yourself and the family

As you move toward the close of the eulogy, thank those who helped the deceased in their final day,s those who helped with the funeral preparations, and the mourners who attended the funeral, donated food, and visited, called, or texted.

“On behalf of myself and the entire Rittenhouse family, I would like to thank all those who have been on hand during Andy’s final days. We offer special thanks to the nursing and physician staff at St. Barnabas Hospital and to the staff of Happy Days Assistant Living Facility, who made his last days comfortable. Thank you to those who have called, texted, or dropped by the family home, provided food, or taken time to join us today.”

8.     Bring it home to say goodbye

As the eulogy comes to a close, it is time to say goodbye to the deceased for a final time.

“I can’t believe I am standing here today to give the eulogy for my 60-year-old father. While I wish we could make another few decades of memories together, things changed forever when your heart gave out unexpectedly. Daddy, I’ll never forget you. Goodbye for now! I’ll love you forever.”

Helpful Eulogy Templates & Examples

If you’re still struggling to put pen to paper, fret not. We have some great templates and examples that can get you started in the right direction.

Click here to review our full article on Eulogy Templates and Examples.

Other Things To Add To A Eulogy

Adding a poem , uplifting quotation , or song lyric to a eulogy can make it even more touching if time permits.

Since eulogies are personal, including quotes representative of their culture might be welcome. At a Hindu funeral, for example, where death is viewed as a part of life, it is appropriate to say, “I wish her soul finds its next destination.”

Or consider the lyrics to a song. Since you want to keep the eulogy at a maximum length of 10 minutes, be sure the lyrics don’t take up too much time.

Here’s a list of short poems that are simple messages for grieving families and friends.

What Should Be Included In A Eulogy – And What Shouldn’t

Stories about the deceased should be positive and tasteful. Even if “everyone” knew that Grampa cheated on his taxes or cousin Billy did meth, those facts do not belong in a eulogy. Just as the obituary of Vito Corleone from The Godfather would not include that he put horseheads in the beds of his enemies, you should not include stories that show the departed in a bad light.

Some stories about the deceased might be hilarious when sharing stories among a small group of drinking buddies that should not be included in the speech.

Many of the same things that guests should avoid saying to the family at the wake should not show up in the eulogy. These include:

• Focusing on the cause of death
• Old hurts or grudges
• Family rifts
• Unhealthy rivalries
• Bad habits, faults, or shortcomings
• Unpleasant memories

Your speech should avoid “funeral cliches” such as “she’s in a better place” or “his suffering is over,” but stress good memories.

If a circumstance occupied so much of the deceased’s life that it cannot easily be ignored, it should be affirmed.

“Though Uncle Mike spent some unplanned time in the Illinois state prison system, he earned a college degree in English and helped his fellow inmates learn to express their feelings in writing. He even wrote a book about his experiences.”  

How To Prepare To Give A Eulogy

Being selected to give a eulogy is a great honor, but it can seem daunting. A great eulogy is seldom delivered “off the cuff” and requires thinking through the task and spending time in preparation of the actual speech. Your task is to distill a long and fruitful life into a few meaningful minutes.

After you set your tone, find a theme that characterizes their life, and put together the outline of your speech, your work isn’t done. The speech is short, so narrow down what you will talk about.

Once you have prepared your first draft, read the speech aloud and change the wording to sound natural. Add and subtract text until you get it just right.

Then – Practice, practice, practice .

Read it out loud at your desk, in front of the mirror, and front of others until it becomes natural and you can say it from memory. You may have notes on the day, but you can better speak from the heart and make eye contact with others if you know your prepared text well.

Record it on your phone, so you can see and hear how it sounds and how you look while giving it.

After you have perfected what you are saying, slow it down so your words are clear.

Get plenty of sleep the night before, arrive at the funeral or memorial service scene on time, take a few deep breaths, and prepare to give your loved one the send-off they’d be proud of!

Carol Farrish is a lifelong writer on diverse topics. Not quite ready to be a customer of the funeral industry for herself yet, she comes from a large family with over two dozen aunts and uncles who survived well into their 80s and 90s. She is a keen observer of the industry after having attended and participated in many funeral and memorial services for family, church friends, and business associates. Not a traditional person herself, she understands the importance of ritual, especially when death strikes a loved one.

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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 .

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Table of Contents

The Structure of the Perfect Eulogy

Reflect on your relationship, gather information, organize your thoughts, practice makes perfect, speak from the heart, project your voice, maintain eye contact, wrap up your eulogy gracefully, tips for rehearsing your eulogy, what is the purpose of a eulogy, who typically gives a eulogy, how long should a eulogy be, what should i include in my eulogy, how do i begin writing a eulogy, how can i make sure my eulogy is respectful and appropriate, how can i make my eulogy more engaging and memorable, should i practice my eulogy before the funeral, is it okay to cry during a eulogy, what if i am too emotional to deliver the eulogy, how can eulogy assistant help me write a eulogy, can i use eulogy assistant to deliver my eulogy, what is a eulogy.

At its core, a eulogy is a speech given in honor of someone who has passed away. It's a way to remember and celebrate their life, and to pay tribute to the impact they had on the world and the people around them.

A eulogy can take many different forms. Some are solemn and serious, while others are more lighthearted and celebratory. Some focus on the person's achievements and accomplishments, while others focus on their personal qualities and character.

Ultimately, a eulogy should be a reflection of the person you're honoring. It should capture their essence and the things that made them special, and help the people who loved them most find comfort and closure in their passing.

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Why Is a Eulogy Important?

A eulogy serves several important functions. First and foremost, it's a way to pay tribute to the person who has passed away. It's a chance to honor their memory and to share with others the impact they had on your life and the world around them.

A eulogy can also be a way to find closure and comfort in the wake of loss. It can help you process your feelings and emotions, and to begin the process of healing.

Finally, a eulogy is an opportunity to bring people together in celebration of a life well-lived. It can be a powerful way to connect with others who are mourning the same loss, and to find strength and support in a time of need.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about writing a eulogy that honors your loved one and provides comfort to those who are grieving. From understanding the key components of a eulogy to tips for crafting a memorable and meaningful tribute, we'll provide you with the resources and guidance you need to create a eulogy that truly honors your loved one's memory.

When it comes to writing a eulogy, having a clear and organized structure can make all the difference. By following a structure that flows well, you can ensure that your eulogy is engaging, memorable, and honors the life of the person you are remembering.

Here are some tips for creating the perfect structure for your eulogy:

• Start with an attention-grabbing opening: Whether it's a personal anecdote, a quote, or a moment of silence, your opening should set the tone for the rest of your eulogy.
• Share stories and memories: This is where you can really personalize your eulogy and share stories and memories that showcase the person's character and spirit.
• Focus on their accomplishments: It's important to highlight the person's achievements and the impact they had on the world around them.
• Acknowledge their loved ones: Take a moment to acknowledge the person's family and loved ones and express your condolences.
• End with a powerful conclusion: Your conclusion should summarize your main points and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Remember, there is no one "right" way to structure a eulogy. It's important to find a structure that works for you and the person you are remembering. Whether you choose a chronological approach or a thematic approach, the most important thing is that you speak from the heart and honor the life of your loved one.

Consider using Eulogy Assistant to help you organize your thoughts and memories in a structured and meaningful way. With its easy-to-use interface and helpful prompts, it can be a valuable tool in creating the perfect eulogy structure.

Gathering Information and Reflection

The first step in writing a eulogy is to gather information and reflect on the life of the person you are eulogizing. This can be a challenging task, especially if you are grieving. However, taking the time to reflect on the person’s life and gather information about their experiences, accomplishments, and character traits will help you create a thoughtful and meaningful eulogy.

Start by reflecting on your relationship with the person. What were your fondest memories together? What did you admire about them? What impact did they have on your life? By reflecting on your relationship, you can find the right words to express your feelings and convey your message.

Next, gather information about the person’s life. Speak with family members, friends, and colleagues to learn more about their experiences and accomplishments. You can also look through photo albums, letters, and other memorabilia to get a sense of their personality and character. Some key areas to consider include:

• Childhood and family life
• Education and career
• Hobbies and interests
• Achievements and milestones
• Character traits and personality

Once you have gathered the necessary information, organize your thoughts into an outline. This will help you create a structure for your eulogy and ensure that you cover all the key points. Start with an introduction that sets the tone and purpose of the eulogy. Then, move on to the body of the eulogy, where you can highlight the person’s life and accomplishments. Finally, end with a conclusion that summarizes your thoughts and provides closure.

Gathering information and reflecting on memories is an essential step in the eulogy writing process. It's a time to honor and celebrate the life of your loved one, and to share their legacy with others.

At Eulogy Assistant , we understand how difficult it can be to put your thoughts and feelings into words during this challenging time. That's why we offer a personalized eulogy writing service to help you create a meaningful and heartfelt tribute to your loved one.

Crafting the Opening of Your Eulogy

The opening of your eulogy sets the tone for the entire speech. It’s your chance to capture your audience's attention and start the eulogy on the right note. Here are some tips for crafting an effective opening:

Begin with a quote: A quote can be a powerful way to set the tone and provide context for the eulogy. Look for quotes from literature, poetry, or religious texts that resonate with you and the life of the person you’re eulogizing.

Start with a story: A personal story can be a great way to connect with the audience and set the tone for the rest of the eulogy. Think about a meaningful moment or experience you shared with the person and use that as a starting point.

Address the audience: You can begin your eulogy by addressing the audience directly. Thank them for being present, acknowledge the difficulty of the occasion, and express your gratitude for the opportunity to speak on behalf of the person you’re eulogizing.

Use humor (sparingly): Humor can be a powerful tool in a eulogy, but it should be used sparingly and with good judgment. If the person you’re eulogizing had a great sense of humor, you might consider including a lighthearted anecdote or joke.

Establish a theme: Consider starting your eulogy by establishing a theme or motif that will run throughout the speech. This can help you organize your thoughts and provide a unifying thread for the eulogy.

Remember, the opening of your eulogy is your chance to set the tone and capture your audience's attention. Take the time to craft a thoughtful and engaging opening that honors the life of the person you’re eulogizing. And if you need help getting started, consider using Eulogy Assistant to guide you through the process.

Developing the Body of Your Eulogy

After crafting a memorable opening, the next important aspect is developing the body of your eulogy. This is where you will share anecdotes, memories, and stories that capture the essence of the person you are honoring. Here are some tips on how to develop the body of your eulogy:

Identify Key Themes: Before you start writing, identify the key themes you want to touch on in your eulogy. Think about the person’s personality, their passions, and their accomplishments. You could also consider their relationships with family and friends, their career, and any challenges they faced in life.

Choose the Right Tone: The tone of your eulogy should match the personality of the person you are honoring. If they were known for their sense of humor, it’s appropriate to include lighthearted anecdotes. However, if the person was more reserved, a more serious tone may be more appropriate.

Keep it Personal: When sharing stories and memories, try to make them as personal as possible. Share your own experiences with the person and how they impacted your life. This will not only make your eulogy more engaging but also create a deeper emotional connection with the audience.

Use Examples: Use specific examples to illustrate your points. For example, instead of saying the person was “generous,” share a story about how they went out of their way to help someone in need. This will make your eulogy more memorable and impactful.

Balance Positivity and Realism: While it’s important to focus on the positive aspects of the person’s life, it’s also okay to acknowledge their flaws and challenges. This can make your eulogy more relatable and honest.

As you can see, the body of your eulogy is where you'll share the stories, memories, and qualities that made your loved one so special. It's important to strike a balance between honoring their life and personality, while also keeping your audience engaged and connected to the message you're conveying. With so much to consider, it can be overwhelming to write a eulogy on your own.

That's where Eulogy Assistant comes in. Our personalized speech writing service can help you craft a meaningful eulogy that captures the essence of your loved one's life and personality, while also ensuring that it flows well and resonates with your audience.

Writing a Memorable Conclusion

The conclusion of a eulogy is just as important as the opening and body of the speech. It's your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your audience and honor the memory of your loved one. In this section, we will discuss how to write a memorable conclusion that brings your eulogy to a fitting end.

Summarize Your Main Points: Use this opportunity to recap the main points you made in your eulogy. This will reinforce the message you've been trying to convey and help your audience remember the important moments you shared about your loved one.

Reflect on the Deceased: Take some time to reflect on your loved one's life and accomplishments. Share any last thoughts, memories or stories that come to mind. This can be an emotional part of the speech, so make sure to take a moment to compose yourself.

End with a Meaningful Quote or Poem: A well-chosen quote or poem can be a powerful way to conclude your eulogy. Look for something that resonates with you and the audience, and that captures the spirit of the person you're honoring.

Thank the Audience: Before you finish your eulogy, take a moment to thank your audience for being there to share in this moment. Acknowledge any special guests or family members who traveled to attend the service. Let them know how much their presence means to you and your family.

As you can see, writing a eulogy is a powerful way to honor the memory of your loved one. Crafting a memorable conclusion that leaves a lasting impression is an important part of the process. If you need help with your eulogy or want to make sure that it's perfect, consider using Eulogy Assistant . Our service can provide you with the guidance, tools, and support you need to create a eulogy that truly captures the essence of your loved one.

Delivering Your Eulogy: Tips and Tricks

You have put in the time and effort to craft a beautiful eulogy for your loved one, but the work doesn't stop there. The delivery of your eulogy is just as important as the words you have written. Here are some tips and tricks to help you deliver your eulogy with confidence and poise.

Practice, practice, practice. The more you rehearse your eulogy, the more comfortable you will be delivering it. Practice in front of a mirror or a small audience of family or friends. This will not only help you become more familiar with the words but also give you the opportunity to work on your delivery and timing.

When delivering your eulogy, speak from the heart. Let your emotions guide you, but try to maintain composure. Take deep breaths and pause if you need to collect yourself. Remember, it's okay to show vulnerability and emotion, but try not to break down completely.

When speaking in front of a large crowd, it's important to project your voice. Speak loudly and clearly, and make sure everyone can hear you. If you're using a microphone, make sure it's positioned correctly and test it beforehand.

Make eye contact with the audience while delivering your eulogy. This will help you connect with them emotionally and make them feel as though you are speaking directly to them.

As you wrap up your eulogy, take a moment to acknowledge and thank those in attendance for their support during this difficult time. Close with a memorable quote or anecdote that captures the essence of your loved one.

Delivering a eulogy can be a daunting task, but with these tips and tricks, you can confidently deliver a memorable eulogy for your loved one. Remember, the words you have written and the way you deliver them can bring comfort and healing to those who are grieving. If you need additional help in crafting or delivering your eulogy, consider using Eulogy Assistant . We offer guidance, and support to help you create a beautiful eulogy that honors your loved one's life.

Dealing with Emotions When Delivering a Eulogy

Delivering a eulogy is a deeply emotional experience. It can be challenging to keep your composure when speaking about someone who meant so much to you. It's okay to feel overwhelmed with emotion while delivering a eulogy. In fact, it's expected. But it's important to find ways to cope with your emotions and deliver the eulogy in a way that honors your loved one.

Here are some tips to help you manage your emotions while delivering a eulogy:

• Take deep breaths: When you feel your emotions starting to get the best of you, take a deep breath. This will help you to slow down and refocus.
• Pause and collect yourself: It's okay to pause and take a moment to collect yourself. This can help you regain your composure and continue with the eulogy.
• Lean on others: Don't be afraid to lean on family and friends for support. They understand the emotional weight of the situation and can offer comfort and encouragement.
• Use humor: If appropriate, you can use humor to lighten the mood and ease your nerves. Just make sure the humor is respectful and appropriate for the occasion.
• Practice: Practice delivering the eulogy ahead of time. This will help you to become more comfortable with the material and reduce nerves.

Remember, it's important to allow yourself to feel and process your emotions. This is a difficult time, and it's okay to cry or show vulnerability. The most important thing is to speak from the heart and honor your loved one in the best way you can.

While delivering a eulogy is a challenging task, it can also be a deeply rewarding experience. By sharing memories and stories, you're able to honor your loved one and keep their memory alive. If you're struggling to write or deliver a eulogy, Eulogy Assistant is here to help. With our user-friendly platform, you can create a beautiful and heartfelt eulogy that truly captures the essence of your loved one.

Common Eulogy Mistakes to Avoid

When writing and delivering a eulogy, it's important to avoid common mistakes that could take away from the beauty and impact of the tribute. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Rambling: It's important to stay on track and avoid rambling. Remember to keep your eulogy concise and to the point, highlighting the most important moments and memories.
• Being overly formal: While it's important to be respectful, being too formal can make the eulogy feel stiff and impersonal. Use a conversational tone, and feel free to share humorous anecdotes and personal stories.
• Focusing too much on the negative: While it's important to acknowledge the loss and the pain that comes with it, focusing too much on the negative can make the eulogy feel heavy and sad. Instead, try to focus on the positive memories and the legacy of the loved one.
• Ignoring the audience: Remember that the eulogy is not just for the loved one who has passed away, but also for the people who are there to celebrate their life. Make sure to engage with the audience and connect with them throughout the eulogy.
• Not practicing: It's important to practice your eulogy before the actual event, so that you can get comfortable with the material and work out any kinks. Don't leave it until the last minute, or you risk feeling unprepared and nervous.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your eulogy is a fitting tribute to your loved one's life and legacy.

Writing and delivering a eulogy can be an emotional and challenging task, but it's also an incredibly meaningful way to honor a loved one who has passed away. By avoiding these common mistakes and following the tips and guidelines in this guide, you can create a beautiful and impactful eulogy that truly captures the essence of your loved one's life. And if you need some extra help or guidance, don't forget to check out Eulogy Assistant , a valuable tool that can help you create a memorable and heartfelt eulogy that will be cherished for years to come.

The Importance of Rehearsing Your Eulogy

While writing your eulogy is an important step, it's equally important to rehearse it before the actual delivery. Rehearsing will help you ensure that your delivery is smooth, confident, and impactful. Here are some reasons why rehearsing your eulogy is so important:

Helps you memorize your eulogy: Rehearsing your eulogy multiple times will help you memorize it. This means you won't have to rely on notes or cue cards during the delivery, allowing you to make better eye contact with the audience and connect with them on a more personal level.

Builds confidence: When you rehearse your eulogy, you become more comfortable with the material, and your delivery becomes more confident. This is important because delivering a eulogy is a difficult task, and confidence is essential to making an impact.

Allows for editing and fine-tuning: Rehearsing your eulogy will help you identify any sections that need to be edited or fine-tuned. You can adjust the pacing, tone, and content of your eulogy to ensure that it is as impactful and meaningful as possible.

Practice in front of a mirror: Practicing in front of a mirror allows you to see your body language and facial expressions, and make adjustments accordingly.

Record yourself: Recording yourself while rehearsing will allow you to see and hear what your audience will see and hear during the delivery. You can make adjustments to your delivery based on what you see and hear.

Practice with a friend or family member: Practicing with someone you trust can help you receive feedback on your delivery, and identify areas that need improvement.

Rehearsing your eulogy is an essential part of the process. It helps you memorize your eulogy, builds confidence, and allows for editing and fine-tuning. By following the tips above, you can ensure that your delivery is smooth, confident, and impactful, and that your eulogy will be a fitting tribute to your loved one. And if you need additional help, don't forget that Eulogy Assistant is here to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Writing a Eulogy

Writing a eulogy is a challenging task that can be overwhelming, especially when you have never written one before. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you better understand the process and prepare a meaningful eulogy for your loved one.

A eulogy is a speech given at a funeral or memorial service to honor the life and memory of a loved one. It allows you to pay tribute to their character, share memories, and celebrate their accomplishments.

Usually, a close family member, friend, or religious leader gives the eulogy.

A eulogy typically lasts between three and ten minutes, depending on the preferences of the family and the individual delivering the eulogy.

You can include stories, memories, anecdotes, and anything else that highlights the personality, accomplishments, and character of your loved one.

Start by brainstorming ideas, reflecting on your loved one's life, and gathering information. Take your time and don't rush the process.

Consider the audience and the setting of the funeral or memorial service. Avoid inappropriate language or humor, and focus on celebrating the life of your loved one.

Use storytelling techniques, include personal anecdotes and memories, and speak from the heart.

Yes, practicing your eulogy will help you feel more confident and comfortable delivering it.

Yes, it is natural to feel emotional and express your grief during a eulogy.

Consider having someone else deliver the eulogy on your behalf or take a moment to compose yourself before continuing.

Eulogy Assistant is an online tool that can help guide you through the process of writing a eulogy, providing prompts and examples to help you craft a meaningful and memorable tribute.

No, Eulogy Assistant is designed to help you write your eulogy, not deliver it. However, it can provide helpful tips and advice for delivering a eulogy.

Writing a eulogy can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By reflecting on your loved one's life, gathering information, and using resources like Eulogy Assistant , you can create a heartfelt and meaningful tribute to honor their memory.

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How to Start a Eulogy: 15 Heartfelt Examples

Nov 17, 2023

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Writing a eulogy can be a daunting experience, especially as you’re grieving the loss of a loved one. Many people find starting the eulogy is the hardest part of writing it because you want to create something meaningful but also correct. 

To help you write the perfect beginning to a eulogy, we put together some tips on where to start, plus a list of 15 heartfelt examples.

Key Takeaways 

A good way to start a eulogy is with a simple introduction of yourself and to thank the audience for coming to the service. 

You can add certain things to your eulogy, like quotes, poems, and fond memories.

Avoid talking about yourself for too long in the eulogy, talking too fast, or using superlong quotes in your eulogy. 

How to Get Started

Being chosen to write a eulogy for a loved one is an honor, which means you want to write it in the best way to pay tribute to the deceased. Here are some tips on how to begin.

Introduce Yourself 

At the start of a eulogy, one of the first things you should include is who you are. Introduce yourself and explain your relationship to the deceased. This helps listeners feel more connected to you.

If you aren’t a family member, you can also offer your condolences to the deceased’s loved ones.

Thank People for Coming 

Thank the audience for coming to the funeral, memorial, or whatever type of service you are having. This makes them feel appreciated and starts the service off the right way. 

If there are any people who brought food, were part of the planning, or deserve a special mention, you can thank them as well. 

Talk More About Your Ties to the Deceased 

After introducing yourself, you can lead into talking about the relationship you had with the deceased. Examples: things they taught you, something special you will remember them for, or the effect they had on your life.

Share a Quote or Poem

Some people like to start the eulogy with a quote or poem they feel is appropriate for the service. It sets the tone for the rest of the speech.

If your loved one had a special saying that people associated with them, it’s appropriate to use it at the start of the eulogy. 

Share a Fond Memory 

There is no right or wrong way to begin a eulogy, and you can always share a fond memory of the deceased. Sharing memories can evoke feelings of nostalgia and positivity toward the person who passed. Remember, the eulogy is a celebration , a tribute to the deceased. 

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Darcey Peterson , a professional eulogy writer in Washington state, advises: “For a simple example, ‘Aunt Jane was kind and she loved animals.’ Consider instead a memory like, ‘I still remember summer vacations and overnights with Aunt Jane. I always loved helping her with her evening ritual of feeding the dogs and the birds and even the stray neighborhood cats; all before we even sat down for our own dinner!’”

Tell a Story 

You can begin the eulogy by sharing a short story after your opening lines. This is a great way to engage the audience and build a connection with them.

Brett Simner , a TedX speaker and teacher at the Swiss International School, suggests: “Tell stories, great stories, the ones that some will know, but not everybody. They can, of course, include professional accomplishments, but they can also be funny or quirky.”

15 Examples of Eulogy Introductions 

Starting a Eulogy for a Parent 

Example 1: Good afternoon. Thank you all for coming. Before I begin, I wanted to read a meaningful poem that reminded me of my mother, [deceased’s name].

Example 2: Dear friends, family, and colleagues of [deceased’s name], I am [your name], and it is my honor to reflect on the life of my father, [deceased’s name], today. I’d like to take a moment to share my fondest memory of him.  

Example 3: For those of you who don’t know me, I am [deceased’s name’s] daughter. My mother always used to say [insert funny saying], and if she were here with us today, I have no doubt she would think so, too. 

Starting a Eulogy for a Partner 

Example 4: [Partner’s name] was my Prince Charming and the man that I loved from the moment I saw him. I remember that day so clearly [insert memory of how you met the deceased.] [Partner’s name] always wore a smile, and if you were having a bad day, he would always try to cheer you up.

Example 5:  [Partner’s name] once said, [add saying], and I feel like she was speaking about us as a couple. [Partner’s name] was someone I knew I would spend the rest of my life with. [Share memories.] 

Example 6:  Every love story is beautiful, but ours was my favorite. As [deceased's name’s] partner in life and adventures, I am deeply honored to stand here before you today, not to mourn his passing, but to celebrate the vibrant and inspiring life he led.  

Starting a Eulogy for a Friend 

Example 7:  [Deceased’s name] was my best friend on and off the basketball court, and I’ll miss all the afternoons we spent playing together. [Share memories.] 

Example 8:  Good afternoon, my name is [your name], and [deceased’s name] was my friend. I have known [deceased’s name] since we were young children, and I will always remember the time that we [share memory of the deceased].

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Example 9:  Good day, friends and family. I just want to start by thanking you all for coming out this afternoon to celebrate the man we all loved, [deceased’s name], and his family. I know many of you traveled from far to be here with us, and I’m very grateful for that.

Starting a Eulogy for a Child 

Example 10:  Good day. Thank you all for coming. I know that [child’s name] would be so touched to see you all here honoring her life. [Child’s name] always loved it when the family got together, especially at Christmas. [Share memory.]

Example 11:  Dear friends and family. I wanted to start with a quote I know [child’s name] would like by Thomas Jefferson : [quote]. [Child’s name] always enjoyed learning about history, and we often visited the local museum. [Share memory.]

Example 12:  While the passing of [child’s name] is tragic, it's important to take this moment to celebrate their life and hold our loved ones near. My name is [your name], and [child’s name] was someone who was always cheerful even when things were bad. 

Starting a Eulogy for a Sibling 

Example 13:  Hi, everyone. Most of you know me, and to those who don’t, [sibling’s name] was my sister. Growing up with a sister older than you can be tough, but it also meant that I always had a friend who was there for me. [Share a funny story.]

Example 14:  [John 14:27] My sister, [sibling’s name], always loved that Bible verse and would often read it to me during times when I was nervous about something. [Sibling’s name] and I were always close. We would often [share a memory].

Example 15:  Dear friends and family, thank you all for being here. [Sibling’s name] was my younger brother and best friend. If [sibling’s name] were here today, I know he would have said, [insert deceased’s favorite saying]. 

Mistakes to Avoid in the Introduction of Your Eulogy

A eulogy doesn’t have to be perfect, and there are no rules on what to include. It’s all personal. However, there are some mistakes that you should avoid making in the introduction.

Speaking Too Fast

Speaking in front of a bunch of people can be nerve-wracking, especially when you’re talking about something so personal and emotional. However, you should avoid speaking too fast, as some people may struggle to understand you, and the eulogy will feel rushed.

Using Long Quotations or Religious Passages

Beginning the eulogy with a long quotation or religious passage can make it feel impersonal. Long passages can cause the audience to become distracted or lose interest, as they cannot relate to you and the eulogy. 

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Giving Too Much Detail About the Death

Avoid oversharing too many personal details about the deceased’s passing, their life, and their family. This may cause feelings of embarrassment, especially if the death was a controversial one, like an overdose of drugs. If you’re unsure whether to include something, ask your friends and family first.

Making Unnecessary Jokes

It’s OK to keep things upbeat and lighthearted when starting your eulogy. You can even make a joke or two . However, you should avoid unnecessary humor that can come across as offensive and tasteless. 

Telling Embarrassing Stories About the Deceased

You are welcome to share any fond or (appropriate) funny memories you have of the deceased, but this doesn’t mean you should share embarrassing stories. This can come across as disrespectful and hurt the family’s feelings. 

Bringing Up Grudges

When writing the introduction of the eulogy, you should not bring up any grudges you have between the deceased and their family. Not only is this disrespectful toward the person who passed, but it’s also hurtful to the family. 

Examples From Published Eulogies

Examples of good eulogy openings are virtually endless. Here are a couple more for inspiration: Bill Frezza, a tech-industry veteran, writer and broadcaster, started his eulogy for his father, Robert C. Frezza, this way : "Summing up my father's life, I keep coming back to one thought. Never will you meet a man who more faithfully lived his values. "My father was a teacher of all things. His method was simple. He taught by example. At any age, when faced with an ethical dilemma, after reflection, study, or even rationalization, I find myself coming back to one simple question. What would Dad do? His character is the foundation of my conscience." Here's how Oprah Winfrey began her eulogy for civil-rights activist Rosa Parks: "I feel it an honor to be here to come and say a final goodbye. I grew up in the South, and Rosa Parks was a hero to me long before I recognized and understood the power and impact that her life embodied. I remember my father telling me about this colored woman who refused to give up her seat. "And in my child’s mind, I thought, 'She must be really big.' I thought she must be at least a hundred feet tall. I imagined her being stalwart and strong and carrying a shield to hold back the white folks. And then I grew up and had the esteemed honor of meeting her."

Joel Lim has written articles for Business Insider, MSN, and various tech startups. Joel specializes in finance and technology content and holds a bachelor’s degree from Western Governors University.

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84 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.

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.

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Find Inspiration for Your Eulogy Speech with These Examples

By Farewelling Editors

Writing a eulogy speech can be a daunting task, especially during such a difficult time. But with the right inspiration and guidance, you can create a heartfelt and memorable tribute to honor your loved one. In this article, we will explore various aspects of writing a eulogy speech and provide you with examples to help you find inspiration. Whether you are a family member or a close friend, these examples and tips will guide you in crafting a eulogy that truly reflects the life and legacy of the person you are honoring.

First of, learn how to write your eulogy here. 

Understanding the Purpose of a Eulogy

Before we explore the different components of a eulogy speech, it is important to understand its purpose. A eulogy serves as a tribute to the deceased, celebrating their life, accomplishments, and impact on others. It provides an opportunity for family and friends to come together to remember and honor their loved one. A well-written eulogy can help bring comfort, healing, and closure to those who are grieving.

The Role of a Eulogy in the Grieving Process

One of the primary roles of a eulogy is to support the grieving process. It allows family and friends to share their memories and emotions openly, creating a sense of catharsis and connection. By reflecting on the life of the deceased, a eulogy can help mourners find comfort and solace during a time of loss.

When delivering a eulogy, it is important to consider the impact it can have on the grieving process. The words spoken during this tribute can help individuals navigate through the stages of grief, providing them with a sense of understanding and acceptance. By sharing stories and memories, the eulogy can help mourners find solace in the fact that their loved one's life was meaningful and impactful.

Furthermore, a eulogy can serve as a reminder of the deceased's legacy. It can highlight their achievements, passions, and contributions to society. By acknowledging and celebrating their accomplishments, the eulogy can inspire others to carry on their memory and continue their work.

The Importance of Personal Touch in a Eulogy

A eulogy is a deeply personal and intimate tribute. It is an opportunity to showcase the unique qualities and experiences of the person who has passed away. By incorporating personal stories, anecdotes, and memories, you can create a eulogy that is not only authentic but also deeply meaningful to those attending the service.

When crafting a eulogy, it is important to consider the impact of personal touch. Sharing specific memories and experiences can help paint a vivid picture of the deceased's life, allowing mourners to connect with their essence. By including personal anecdotes, you can bring a sense of warmth and familiarity to the eulogy, making it a heartfelt tribute that resonates with everyone present.

Moreover, incorporating personal touch in a eulogy can help celebrate the individuality of the deceased. It can highlight their unique qualities, passions, and accomplishments, allowing others to appreciate the depth and richness of their life. By sharing personal stories, you can showcase the impact the deceased had on the lives of those around them, creating a lasting memory that honors their legacy.

Components of a Memorable Eulogy

Now that we have discussed the purpose of a eulogy, let's delve into the different components that make up a memorable speech.

A eulogy is not just a speech; it is a heartfelt tribute to a person who has left an indelible mark on our lives. It is an opportunity to honor their memory, celebrate their life, and provide comfort to those who are grieving. A well-crafted eulogy can create a lasting impact and leave a lasting impression on the hearts of those in attendance.

Balancing Emotion and Humour

A eulogy is an emotional experience for both the speaker and the audience. While it is natural to express sadness and grief, it is also important to balance these emotions with moments of humor and lightness. Sharing light-hearted anecdotes or funny stories about your loved one can provide moments of levity amidst the sorrow.

Humor can be a powerful tool in a eulogy, as it allows us to remember the joy and laughter that the deceased brought into our lives. It can help ease the pain and create a more uplifting atmosphere. However, it is crucial to strike the right balance and ensure that the humor is respectful and appropriate for the occasion.

Incorporating Personal Stories and Memories

One of the most powerful ways to connect with the audience is by sharing personal stories and memories about the deceased. These stories bring the person to life in the minds of those listening and allow them to feel a deeper connection with the individual being honored. Consider anecdotes that highlight their character, values, or memorable moments shared together.

Personal stories have the ability to evoke emotions and create a sense of intimacy in the room. They can paint a vivid picture of the person's life, their passions, and their impact on others. Whether it's recounting a funny incident, a touching moment, or a life lesson learned from the deceased, these personal stories add depth and authenticity to the eulogy.

When incorporating personal stories, it is important to choose ones that resonate with the audience and capture the essence of the person being remembered. These stories should be shared with sincerity and genuine emotion, allowing the listeners to feel the love and admiration you have for the departed.

Structuring Your Eulogy Speech

Structure is important when delivering a eulogy speech. Let's explore the key elements of structuring your speech.

When it comes to delivering a eulogy, structure plays a crucial role in ensuring that your speech is impactful and memorable. By organizing your thoughts and ideas in a coherent manner, you can effectively convey the essence of the person's life and leave a lasting impression on the audience.

Beginning with a Strong Introduction

Start your eulogy with a strong and engaging introduction that captures the attention of the audience. This can be a memorable quote, a personal reflection, or a brief anecdote that sets the tone for the rest of your speech. By starting on a powerful note, you will draw the listeners in and establish a connection with them.

Imagine standing in front of a room filled with people who have gathered to pay their respects and honor the life of a loved one. The weight of the moment hangs in the air, and all eyes are on you. It is at this pivotal moment that your introduction becomes the gateway to the heartfelt stories and cherished memories that will follow.

Consider sharing a quote that resonates with the person's character or a personal reflection that highlights a special bond you shared. This will not only grab the attention of the audience but also set the emotional tone for the rest of your eulogy.

Crafting the Body of Your Speech

The body of your eulogy is where you will share the important stories, memories, and lessons learned from the life of the deceased. Organize your speech in a way that flows naturally, moving from one theme or topic to another. Consider using chronological order, themes, or specific qualities to structure your speech and create a seamless narrative.

As you delve into the body of your eulogy, take the audience on a journey through the person's life. Share anecdotes that highlight their accomplishments, moments of joy, and the impact they had on others. Paint a vivid picture of their personality, passions, and the values they held dear.

Consider organizing your speech around themes that were important to the person, such as their love for family, their dedication to their career, or their passion for helping others. By structuring your eulogy in this way, you can create a cohesive narrative that celebrates the different facets of their life.

Concluding Your Eulogy on a Positive Note

As you come to the end of your eulogy, it is important to summarize the key points and leave the audience with a positive and uplifting message. Reflect on the impact the person had on your life and the lives of others, and offer words of encouragement and hope for those who are grieving.

Concluding your eulogy is an opportunity to honor the person's legacy and provide comfort to those who are mourning. Take a moment to reflect on the profound impact they had on your life and the lives of others. Share how their kindness, wisdom, or zest for life continues to inspire and guide you.

Offer words of encouragement and hope to those who are grieving, reminding them that although the person may no longer be physically present, their spirit lives on in the memories and lessons they left behind. By ending your eulogy on a positive note, you can leave the audience with a sense of comfort and reassurance as they navigate their grief.

Tips for Delivering a Eulogy

Delivering a eulogy can be emotionally challenging, but with preparation and practice, you can deliver a heartfelt speech that honors the memory of your loved one.

When it comes to delivering a eulogy, it's important to remember that you are not alone in your grief. Surround yourself with loved ones who can provide support and understanding during this difficult time. Sharing your thoughts and memories with others can help alleviate some of the emotional burden.

Practicing Your Speech

Practice your eulogy multiple times before the actual delivery. This will help you become familiar with the content, improve your delivery, and manage your emotions. Rehearsing in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend or family member can also provide valuable feedback and support.

As you practice, take note of any areas where you stumble or become overwhelmed with emotion. These moments can be particularly challenging during the actual delivery, so it's important to address them during your practice sessions. Consider revising those sections or finding ways to cope with the emotions they evoke.

Managing Emotions While Speaking

It is natural to experience a range of emotions while delivering a eulogy. Take a moment to compose yourself before starting and remember to breathe deeply and speak slowly. If you find yourself becoming overwhelmed with emotion, pause, take a deep breath, and continue when you are ready.

One technique that can help you manage your emotions is to focus on the positive memories and moments you shared with your loved one. By highlighting their accomplishments, quirks, and the impact they had on others, you can celebrate their life and find strength in their memory.

Additionally, consider incorporating moments of silence into your speech. These pauses can allow you and the audience to reflect on the words spoken and the life being honored. It can also provide you with a moment to collect yourself and regain composure if needed.

Remember, delivering a eulogy is not about perfection. It's about sharing your love, grief, and memories with others. Allow yourself to be vulnerable and authentic, as this will resonate with those in attendance.

Lastly, don't hesitate to seek professional help if you are struggling with the emotional toll of delivering a eulogy. Grief counseling or therapy can provide you with the support and guidance needed to navigate this challenging process.

Overcoming Common Challenges in Writing a Eulogy

Writing a eulogy may present various challenges along the way. Let's explore some common challenges and how to overcome them.

Dealing with Writer's Block

Writer's block is common when it comes to writing a eulogy. If you find yourself struggling to put your thoughts into words, take a break and engage in activities that inspire you. Reflect on shared memories, look at old photographs, or seek inspiration from other eulogy speeches. Remember, there is no right or wrong way to write a eulogy, as long as it comes from the heart.

When faced with writer's block, it can be helpful to create a quiet and peaceful environment. Find a comfortable space where you can reflect and gather your thoughts. Take deep breaths and allow yourself to feel the emotions that arise. Sometimes, a change of scenery can also provide a fresh perspective. Consider taking a walk in nature or visiting a place that holds special meaning to the person you are eulogizing.

Another strategy to overcome writer's block is to brainstorm and jot down key points or memories that come to mind. Don't worry about organizing them at this stage; just let your thoughts flow freely. Once you have a collection of ideas, you can start arranging them into a cohesive narrative.

Addressing Difficult or Complex Relationships in a Eulogy

When writing a eulogy, you may encounter complex relationships or challenging situations. It is important to approach these situations with sensitivity and empathy. Focus on the positive aspects and highlight the impact the person had on others' lives. Acknowledge the complexities, but also offer words of forgiveness, understanding, and love.

When addressing difficult or complex relationships in a eulogy, it can be helpful to seek guidance from others who knew the person well. Reach out to family members, close friends, or mentors who can provide insights and share their own experiences. By gathering different perspectives, you can gain a deeper understanding of the person's impact and navigate the complexities with grace.

Remember that a eulogy is an opportunity to celebrate the life of the person who has passed away. While it is important to acknowledge any challenges or difficulties in their relationships, focus on the lessons learned and the growth that occurred. Share stories that highlight their resilience, compassion, and ability to overcome obstacles. By doing so, you can honor their memory and inspire others to find strength in the face of adversity.

Final Thoughts on Eulogy Speech Writing

As you embark on the journey of writing a eulogy, remember the value of authenticity. Your eulogy should be a genuine reflection of your relationship with the person you are honoring. While finding inspiration from examples can be helpful, make sure to infuse your own unique voice and experiences into your speech. Remember the purpose of your speech: to celebrate the life and legacy of your loved one and provide healing and comfort to those who are grieving.

When writing a eulogy, it is important to take the time to reflect on the memories and experiences you shared with the person who has passed away. Think about the impact they had on your life and the lives of others. Consider the qualities that made them special and the lessons they taught you. By incorporating these personal details into your speech, you can create a heartfelt tribute that truly captures the essence of the person you are honoring.

As you write your eulogy, remember that it is not just a speech, but a gift to those who are mourning. Your words have the power to provide solace and comfort to those who are grieving, and to help them remember and celebrate the life of their loved one. Consider sharing anecdotes and stories that highlight the person's character, achievements, and the impact they had on others. These personal touches can help create a meaningful and memorable eulogy.

Remembering the Purpose of Your Speech

Lastly, always keep in mind the purpose of your eulogy—the opportunity to honor and pay tribute to a cherished individual. Let the love and memories you carry for them guide you as you craft and deliver a eulogy that celebrates their life and brings comfort to all who are present.

When delivering your eulogy, it is important to speak from the heart. Allow yourself to be vulnerable and express your emotions. Share your personal experiences and memories, and let the audience feel the love and admiration you have for the person you are honoring. Remember, a eulogy is not just a speech, but a way to connect with others and create a sense of unity in the midst of grief.

In addition to honoring the person who has passed away, a eulogy can also serve as a source of inspiration and comfort for those in attendance. By sharing stories of resilience, love, and strength, you can provide hope and encouragement to those who are grieving. Use your words to remind everyone of the impact that one life can have, and to encourage them to carry on the legacy of the person they have lost.

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Sample eulogies for family, friends... 

Resources to help to write a loving funeral speech

By:  Susan Dugdale  

Writing and then delivering a meaningful eulogy at a memorial service is, to be blunt, a challenge. You want what you prepare to be right: an honest and heartfelt tribute encapsulating all the good things that were uniquely special about this dear person’s life, this person whom you loved.

But how do you achieve that? Where do you begin?

I understand the struggle to pull thoughts together when you're in the midst of grief. It can be hard work, a daunting task.

That's why I've grouped all the resources I have about writing a good eulogy, including examples of eulogies, in one place: this page.

It's a kind of directory to give you access to all the information you need.

What's on this page

Links to 70+ eulogy examples. You'll find them for family members, close friends and more:

• mothers and fathers
• sons and sisters
• brothers and for uncles
• grandmothers and grandfathers
• in-laws , colleagues , friends , mentors and, ourselves

Links to onsite resources for writing a celebration of life speech :

• How to write a eulogy  - step by step guidelines with a free printable eulogy planner
• Six pages of best loved readings and poems  for funeral speeches, including audio: readings of some of the poems 

A link to a resource to help with the grieving and healing process :

• bereavement support  - a free series of 7 inspirational emails

How reading sample eulogies helps

Reading what other people have written will help you form your own ideas. It's a great way to start if you're feeling overwhelmed.

Find a eulogy speech you like - one whose tone, style and structure feels right to you. Then, if you wish to, you can take it, and make it your own. Follow the pattern. Swap out the stories. Put yours in. Change what you need to, to make it true for you.

Or you can follow my step-by-step guidelines for writing a eulogy. That's what many of the people did who wrote the funeral speeches below.

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About these example eulogies

These eulogies were written by people from all over the world: USA, Mexico, England, Ireland, Scotland, Australia, South Africa, Cape Verde, India, Philippines... 

What they all have in common is the desire to celebrate their loved ones the best way they can, and generosity.

They've sent their speeches to me to share, in the hope they help those who read them. 

The result is a rich, diverse collection representing multiple cultures and religious beliefs. 

As you read, listen. You'll hear their voices: their sincerity, their passion, bewilderment, understanding, humor... In short, you'll hear humanity.

(Find out more about how, and why, people share the funeral tributes they have written .)

Eulogy examples for a mother

Mothers. Mums. Mammas. Moms. Hard workers, truth tellers, fun lovers, miracle workers, passionate defenders and supporters of their children. Their lives are recalled and celebrated by their sons and daughters with love, humor, honesty and gratitude.

The eulogies are very different in tone and content. What unites them is their theme: deep love and respect for the women who gave their writers' life.

• Journey's End - a poem
• Eulogy for my Mother, Jean
• My Mother & her gift of gab
• Muriel & her morning room
• Our Mother's love
• Eulogy for Mom
• The loves of Helen Davis Cecil
• A tribute to my Mother
• A tribute to my mother, Iris
• Sometimes - a eulogy for my Mother
• Mum - the book of her life
• My Mother's legacy

Eulogy examples for a father

Dad. Papa. Father. Pop. The old man. Whatever you call him he's the man who parented you through your childhood and, beyond.

The collection of eulogies for Dads celebrates men who became fathers late in life, men who struggled with addiction and won, men who taught their sons "guy kind-of" things, men who adored their grandchildren, men who worked hard day after day to provide for their families ...

They're a rich, beautiful acknowledgment of the role fathers play in their children's lives.

• Farewell the perfect gentleman
• Eulogy for Dad - a man of many names
• Eulogy for a special Dad
• For Dad, who died suddenly and too soon
• Lessons my Dad taught me
• Remembering Dad
• Dad - an overview of his life

Eulogies for sons and sisters

Having to write a eulogy for your son or daughter is almost unbearable to think about. And yet some of us have to.

There are two eulogies for sons below. Both are heartbreakingly tender testimonies of love, each in their own way. The first has helped many people since I put it online.  You'll see that reflected in the comments.

We've also got two eulogies for little sisters: the first written by her big sister and the second by her big brother. Again, they are very different in treatment and content, and yet they share the same sentiment: gratitude for a much loved younger sister.

• Eulogy for my son
• For my son, my moon

For sisters

• Farewell Cupcake - a eulogy for my little sister
• Eulogy for my little sister Suzy

Eulogies for brothers

Adored big brothers. Rascally little brothers. Special brothers. Brothers with smiles so wide they had to pin their ears back to fit them in. Here are five eulogies sharing favorite memories: the pleasure, joy and, sometimes the pain, of having a brother. 

• Eulogy for my older brother
• Eulogy for my brother Jose Juan Ornelas
• My beloved brother - Junior
• My one and only older brother, Danny
• Christophe - my loved brother who had Downs Syndrome
• Jimbo Bro - my wee brother

Eulogies for uncles

Uncles. In some families they're a bit like spare Dads. They lend a hand, give advice, teach you a thing or two, tease, and love you whether you are up or down. The uncles in the three eulogies below did all of that and more.

• Goodbye too soon - Uncle Bill
• A few stories about Uncle Len
• My black sheep

Eulogies for grandmothers

Grannies, grandmas, nannies ... Whatever you call them in many families these women are dearly loved by their grandchildren for many things: the stories they tell, the fun they have when they're together, the way they love unconditionally, for the examples they set, and ultimately, for being themselves.

There are eulogies here for English, American, Indian, and Australian grandmothers, all of whom were adored.

• Eulogy for my grandmother, Grammie
• Eulogy for my grandma, Bertha
• For grandma from her youngest grandson
• Mai - a model of empowerment for women
• Grandma Helen -part of 'The Greatest Generation'
• For my granny
• Eulogy for my grandmother Nani
• My grandma Judy, the farmer's wife
• Remembering our Nanny

Eulogies for grandfathers

How do you fittingly honor the relationship you had with your Grandfather in a eulogy? 

Perhaps your grandfather was an inspiration to you. A shining example of selfless manhood. Perhaps he was dance partner, a poet, and a friend. Perhaps he was a hardworking, generous man.

Read these eulogies. They'll help you find a way to express what was uniquely special to you about your grandfather. 

• A eulogy for my Grandpa
• My grandad, my friend
• Grandad's tribute

Eulogies for in-laws

In-laws. Father, mother, sister or brother-in-law, they've been the butt of jokes forever. That aside they're an integral part of families, and many of us forge a dear, close relationship with them. We love those people and love having them in our lives.

The eulogies for father-in-laws are from a son and a daughter-in-law. The ones for sister-in-laws were written by a sister and a brother-in-law. And the eulogy for a much loved mother-in-law comes from her daughter-in-law. 

For fathers-in-law

• My father in-law, a man of God who made history
• Father in-law, I look forward to the day we meet again

For mothers-in-law

• Eulogy for my mother-in-law, and her lasagna

For sisters-in-law

• A tribute to my sister in-law, Jaye
• For my sister in-law, Tracey

Eulogies for colleagues

We spend an enormous amount of time working, often in the same workplace, with the same people for many years.

Naturally, some of the relationships we form will be highly significant for the long lasting positive impact they have on our lives.

Its those people, extraordinary colleagues and friends, who have been written about in the eulogies below. 

• Eulogy for my co-worker Donna
• In loving memory of Meagan Lourens, our manager
• A tribute poem to a friend, Vasu

Eulogies for friends

Eleanor Roosevelt said, "Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart."

The eulogies below celebrate true friends: those whom we trust, we love, we laugh with, we cry with, those people who  bring us joy, who understand us.

• Eulogy for a friend
• Farewell tribute
• Eulogy for my friend Cecil Wayne Pulliam
• To my best friend
• Ted Jacobs - so many hats, so many titles
• Terry Denison - my good friend
• Brendan, my friend
• Forever in my thoughts - eulogy for my dear friend, Jennifer

Eulogies for others

We're human. We form all sorts of relationships with all sorts people who become, through the quality of the connection, important to us.  They could be our teachers, our ministers, mentors... even, ourselves.

For Mentors

• Remembering Dr Bruce
• To a mentor
• Eulogy to my mentor and spiritual Father

For ourselves

• Life Advice - a pre-planned funeral address

Resources for writing eulogies

• How to write a memorable eulogy - step by step guidelines with examples, plus a free 15 page printable eulogy planning template
• Readings and poems for funeral speeches  - a broad collection of best loved readings, some with audio
• Bereavement poems - another collection of inspirational funeral readings, some with audio
• Readings of four poems frequently used in funeral services: Do Not Stand At My Grave And Weep, Funeral Blues, I Am Standing Upon The Seashore, and the prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi.
• Funeral Blues (Stop All the Clocks) by WH Auden : read the text, listen to the audio, find out about its meaning and history, get a printable.
• Funeral poems| Remember me - 4 much loved funeral poems called Remember Me. Read them. Listen to them and get a printable for each of them.
• Inspirational quotations - a large multi-cultural selection of wisdom spanning countries and times
• How to read poetry aloud - after you've chosen a poem to include in your eulogy find out how to read it with confidence.

Resources to help with grief

• Bereavement support - a  free series of 7 inspirational messages carefully chosen to support, comfort and inspire.

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Eulogy Examples

Being asked to eulogize a deceased friend or family member is an important responsibility. Knowing what to write is only the first step - you also must be comfortable standing up in front of other people at a funeral or memorial service and reciting what you've written.

Since there's so much that goes into a good eulogy, we've collected a few eulogy examples and additional guidance that can help you honor your lost loved one.

How to Write a Eulogy

No two eulogy examples will be the same, just as no two people are alike. Yet there are some commonalities for most eulogies, as they will often include the following things:

A short biography:  briefly recount the life of the deceased. Be sure to include key milestones, such as any marriages, the birth of any children or grandchildren, or other major occurrences.

Personal memories:  you were chosen because of your relationship with the deceased. Share some personal memories that showcase what made them such a special person to you. Don't worry if this feels too niche — the details of your specific story will resonate with everyone.

Other relationships : say a few words about the relationships the deceased had with other close friends and family members. What made these relationships so special? Be sure to make others feel included and loved.

Other accomplishments:  what did the deceased accomplish in their life and/or career? What were they good at? What types of interests or hobbies did they particularly enjoy?

Favorite works of art:  did the deceased have a favorite song, movie, or book? Did they gravitate toward the works of a specific artist, writer, or musician? Consider including a noteworthy quote from a work of art that symbolizes who they were in life.

A Eulogy Speech Example

The following eulogy speech example is an excerpt, as a full eulogy would be much longer. However, even this small sample eulogy showcases many of the different elements discussed above when it comes to talking about important aspects of the life of the deceased. This example was created to honor the passing of a grandparent but can easily be used as a basis for your own eulogy by adapting it to your own needs.

Sample Eulogy

My grandmother was a lot of things. She raised three kids as a divorced single mother at a time when it was nearly unheard of. She worked hard to provide for her family, making sure they were warm and fed and got to school on time every day, no matter what. Most of all, she made sure that anyone who stepped into her house felt loved and safe, no matter where they came from or where they were going.

It was her empathy that always astounded me. "You never know what someone's going through," she said to me once, as she sat in her favorite easy chair with a book in hand. "Everyone has a secret life, hidden away from others. Even the most miserable person in the world has a reason for being that way."

That's how I remember her the most vividly - with a book in her hand. If you knew my grandmother at all, you also knew that she loved to read. Walking into her home showcased that clearly - everywhere you looked, there were books. Floor-to-ceiling shelves stuffed with hardbacks, paperbacks on her nightstand in her bedroom, you name it. Her favorite was mystery novels. "The trashier the better," she would say, her eyes twinkling.

One of my favorite memories was when I gave her a signed copy of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo for her birthday one year. I was a little nervous that she wouldn't like it, but it turned out that she absolutely loved it. She devoured it in just a few days, asking me if Stieg Larsson had written any more. The next week, there were two more Larsson books on her dining room table. From that moment on, she would read the trilogy every year around her birthday.

Today, whenever I open a book, I think of my grandmother. Every time she came across a favorite line in one of her own books, she would underline it. Without fail. In Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, it was the line "her only remaining action was to do what she had always done - take matters into her own hands and solve her problems on her own." Today, whenever I run my fingers over those very lines, I remember my strong, fierce, book-loving grandmother with love, keeping her memory alive. I hope someday to tell my own grandchildren about her.

Writing and Reading a Eulogy

Honoring the memory of a lost loved one is likely to be an emotional moment, and not just for yourself. Those listening to your eulogy written may also be moved by your words. Don't be afraid to let your emotions show, both in what you've written and how you present it. The task may be difficult, but it's often the first step in processing with the collective grief you're feeling together.

We hope this sample eulogy helps in your writing process. And we're very sorry for your loss.

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Write your own eulogy

Is your life on the path you want it to be writing your own eulogy can bring clarity.

By Holly Richardson

As we settle into our fall routines , there is one suggestion that can help us stay on our chosen life course: It’s time for you to write your own eulogy.

I don’t mean write the one that will actually be read at your funeral, although it could be used that way. What I mean is write out what you want people to say about you at the end of your life — and then focus on making those things reality.

New York Times bestselling author Donald Miller says he thinks that what most people are looking for is not how to be more productive, or how to make a million dollars in six months. What they are really looking for is meaning. In his book, “Hero on a Mission,” he devotes several chapters to writing one’s own eulogy and invites his readers to be specific in the vision for their lives. Miller reads his every day as part of his morning routine. It’s a form of goal-setting, one that works backward from the end of our lives to the present day.

Similarly, in 1984, then-Elder Russell M. Nelson addressed BYU students and asked them to “ Begin with the End in Mind .” He asked them to think about “What would you like said about you at your funeral? Or, if you were to write your own eulogy and you could have only three sentences (no big flowery speeches, please), what would you want to say?”

Holly Richardson lived a heart-centered life for nearly a century. She loved people and she loved talking to them and sharing their stories. She considered herself a life-long learner and even though she earned a Ph.D when she was 57, she also knew that much learning could and did most often happen outside the classroom.

She loved her husband, Greg, and the life they built together. She spent four decades dedicated to being a mother to her 25 children (yes, I have 25) and then the next three decades devoted to a career she loved: writing, speaking and teaching. Holly’s love for travel and the people of the world took her to 100 countries. She taught herself a third and then a fourth language in her 60′s. In her ninth decade, she spent time traveling with each of her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren....

If you aren’t sure where to start when writing your own eulogy, you might begin by asking yourself the question Steve Jobs asked himself every day for 33 years: “If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?” He told Stanford graduates in a 2005 commencement speech that whenever the answer to that question had been ‘No’ for too many days in a row, he knew he needed to change something. He also told those students that “Remembering that I’ll be dead soon is the most important tool I’ve ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life.”

Columnist David Brooks calls them “eulogy virtues,” rather than “résumé virtues.” The résumé virtues are the skills you bring to the marketplace, he wrote in 2015 . Brooks said the “eulogy virtues” could be considered a “moral bucket list.” Some of the traits he considered essential for a rich inner life included these:

• Humility . In a selfie culture, these people have achieved “an intense self-awareness from a position of other-centeredness.”
• Self-defeat . External success is often achieved through competition with others. But “character is built during the confrontation with your own weakness.”
• Dependency : People on the road to self-mastery know that they can’t get there alone. “Individual will, reason and compassion are not strong enough to consistently defeat selfishness, pride and self-deception. We all need redemptive assistance from outside.”
• Energizing love: This kind of love “decenters the self” and brings joy in serving that (or those) which you love.
• The call within the call: This, Brooks explains, are the experiences that turn a career into a calling.
• The conscience leap : People on the road to inner light do not find their vocations by asking, what do I want from life? “They ask, what is life asking of me? How can I match my intrinsic talent with one of the world’s deep needs?” And then they follow the path that takes them there, winding and full of pitfalls as it may be.

The bottom line for me is this: We never really know how much time we have on this earth. Are we doing what we love with that time? Are we spending time with people we love? Are we focusing where we should? Are we making a difference? Or are we putting off for “some day?” Some day, we’ll take that vacation. Some day I’ll write down my stories for my grandkids. Some day I’ll take them on a trip. Some day I’ll use that china. Some day I’ll write that thank you note.

When my eulogy is read for the final time, I hope it includes these three sentences:

Holly was a woman of faith who lived fully and loved deeply.

She was devoted to her family and her community.

She made a difference.

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Joe Biden’s Interrupted Presidency

He sought the office nearly all his life. When he finally got there, it brought out his best — and eventually his worst.

Credit... Painting by Alan Coulson

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By Robert Draper

Robert Draper covers politics for The Times. He interviewed more than two dozen current and former Biden advisers; legislators; and Democratic colleagues and allies in Washington and Wilmington, Del.

• Aug. 18, 2024

Shortly after the 11 minutes were over and President Joseph R. Biden Jr. arose from behind the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office on the evening of July 24, he and his family filed out to the Rose Garden.

Listen to this article, read by Robert Petkoff

A throng of White House staff members were waiting outside, under a slight drizzle, with a faint rainbow emerging overhead. Most of them spent the preceding hour nervously eating pizza in the East Room of the White House before growing hushed to listen to their 81-year-old boss speak to the nation. Several of them had been crying earlier in the day. But midway into his speech, Biden began to enumerate his administration’s considerable legislative achievements — among them, “And we finally beat Big Pharma,” a line he had fatefully mangled in the debate with Donald J. Trump less than a month earlier, abruptly dropping the hammer on his political future. As he proceeded through these shared highlights, the tenor in the East Room seemed to change, and a few of the staff members proudly shook hands and hugged one another.

Now Biden spoke only to them, through a microphone someone handed him (according to a video of the event that I obtained). “My name is Joe Biden, and I’m Jill Biden’s husband,” he began, grinning broadly at his familiar joke, as his wife stood beside him, noticeably more subdued, working through her own emotions. “Look,” he told his aides, “the only reason that we’ve had the progress that we’ve had is because of you. And that’s not hyperbole.” He added, in a raspy but otherwise even voice: “I’m so damned proud to be a part of you. I really mean that.”

Sounding anything but deflated, Biden exhorted his staff members to think about the work there was left to do over their final six months. He wanted to extend prescription-drug benefits. He wanted to force billionaires to pay their fair share in taxes. “We can start to help lay the groundwork for Kamala,” Biden said of his vice president and now heir apparent, who was already out on the campaign trail.

He wrapped up his three minutes of remarks with a stage-whispered call to arms, as if it were a secret plan: “ Let’s elect Kamala!” After their ovation, the president urged his staff to get to work on the ice cream stationed behind them. Biden cracked a few other jokes but didn’t stay for dessert. Instead, the 46th president of the United States retreated with his wife down the walkway to the residence.

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