How to Write a Meaningful Eulogy

Writing a eulogy can feel overwhelming, but at its core, it’s an opportunity to honour, celebrate, and remember a loved one. A well-crafted eulogy speech should be heartfelt, authentic, and reflective of the person’s character, values, and impact on others.

Whether you choose to structure it chronologically or through personal anecdotes, the most important thing is to speak from the heart.

What is a Eulogy?

A eulogy is a speech given at a funeral or memorial service to pay tribute to the deceased. It highlights their life, personality, accomplishments, and relationships, offering comfort to those in mourning.

Eulogies can be:
✅ Formal or informal
✅ Personal or factual
✅ Short (3-5 minutes) or longer (7-10 minutes)

Regardless of the format, a good eulogy should reflect the true essence of the person being remembered.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Eulogy

1. Start with Personal Reflection

Before you begin writing, take time to reflect on:
✔ Their defining qualities (e.g., kindness, humour, resilience)
✔ Memorable stories that showcase their character
✔ How they impacted your life and others

Consider asking friends and family for their favourite memories to add depth to your speech.

2. Choose a Structure

There’s no single way to write a eulogy, but here are three common approaches:

📌 Chronological Format – A structured timeline from birth to their final years, covering key milestones.
📌 Thematic Approach – Focuses on specific qualities (e.g., generosity, wisdom) illustrated through anecdotes.
📌 Storytelling Style – Shares a few impactful stories that highlight who they were.

Pick the structure that feels most natural and aligns with the person’s life and legacy.

3. Incorporate Stories & Anecdotes

Anecdotes bring warmth and personality to a eulogy. These can be:
🔹 Funny stories that reflect their humour
🔹 Heartfelt moments that show their kindness
🔹 Memorable life lessons they shared

Example: “One of my favourite memories of Dad was his ability to fix anything—even if he had no idea how. One time, he ‘fixed’ the washing machine by unplugging it and plugging it back in. We called him a genius, and he never let us forget it.”

4. Honour Their Relationships

Discuss how they impacted their family, friends, and community:
✔ Their role in the family (e.g., devoted parent, caring sibling)
✔ Their friendships and social connections
✔ Contributions to their work, hobbies, or volunteer efforts

Example: “Mum had a way of making everyone feel welcome. Whether it was a neighbour, a friend, or a complete stranger, she treated everyone like family.”

5. Keep It Focused & Positive

🔹 Avoid negativity – While grief is natural, a eulogy should celebrate their positive impact.
🔹 Keep it concise – Aim for 3-7 minutes (roughly 500-1000 words).
🔹 Speak from the heart – You don’t need to be a great writer; sincerity matters most.

6. Practice Your Delivery

Once you’ve written your eulogy:
✅ Read it aloud – This helps with flow and timing.
✅ Practice in front of a friend – They can offer feedback.
✅ Have a backup copy – Print it or save it on your phone in case emotions take over.

Why Writing a Eulogy Matters

A eulogy is more than just a speech—it’s a final tribute to a loved one. It offers a moment to:

✔ Celebrate their life, love, and legacy
✔ Provide comfort to grieving friends and family
✔ Preserve their memory for future generations

By sharing personal stories and heartfelt words, you ensure their spirit lives on.

Final Thoughts on Writing a Eulogy

At the heart of every eulogy is love and respect. Whether you choose a simple tribute or a detailed reflection, what matters most is the emotion behind the words.

At Traditional Funerals, we understand how important it is to honour your loved one’s memory. If you need guidance in funeral planning or crafting a meaningful eulogy, we are here to support you.

Need assistance with funeral arrangements?
📞 Contact Traditional Funerals today to create a farewell that truly reflects your loved one’s life.