how to give a speech at a funeral

A Guide to Writing a Funeral Speech: 8 Heartfelt Examples

By: Author Camila Steinfeld

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories Writing Prompts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Outline: How to build a funeral speech

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

A Eulogy for a Mother

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Eulogy for a Father

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Funeral Speech for a Best Friend

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Eulogy for a Wife

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Funeral Speech for a Husband

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Eulogy for a brother

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Funeral Speech for a Sister

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Funeral Speech Examples for a Heartfelt Eulogy

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

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

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

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

Sales from links on this page result in a small commission to us, which enables us to continue to provide free content to help the grieving.  

Guidelines for Writing Funeral Speeches:

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

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

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

'How to write a eulogy'  

'How to give a eulogy' 

Eulogy Sample Speeches

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

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

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

Eulogy Examples for a Father

Eulogy for a Father-in-Law

Eulogy for a Mother

Eulogy for a Mother by a Daughter

Eulogy for a Mother in Law

Eulogy for a Husband

Eulogy for a Wife

Eulogy for a Grandmother

Eulogy for a Grandfather

Eulogy for an Aunt

Eulogies for an Uncle

Two Eulogies for a Brother

One More Eulogy for a Brother

Eulogy for a Sister

Eulogy for a Best Friend

A Humorous Eulogy for a Friend

Eulogy for a Mentor

Eulogy for a Friend

Printable Eulogy Templates

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

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

Free Eulogy Templates

Related Pages: 

Planning a Funeral - Step by Step

Funeral Music

How to Deal with Grief

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How to Deliver a Heartfelt Funeral Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

Funeral speeches play a crucial role in honoring the life of a loved one who has passed away. They provide solace to grieving family members and friends, while also sharing the essence of the person’s life and their impact on those around them. A well-crafted eulog y captures the unique qualities of the deceased, allowing attendees to relive fond memories and celebrate the individual’s life.

Writing and delivering a heartfelt eulogy can be a daunting task. The pressure to create the “best eulogy ever” can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with your own grief. The internet is filled with various funeral eulogy examples, from funny eulogy examples that highlight the person’s wit to deeply emotional tributes. Famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks have set the bar high.

Finding the perfect balance between honoring the person’s life and providing comfort to loved ones can be challenging. In this step-by-step guide, we will explore how to write and deliver a heartfelt funeral speech, drawing inspiration from eulogy examples and famous eulogies to help you pay tribute to your beloved family member or close friend.

II. Understanding the Purpose of a Funeral Speech

A. honoring the deceased.

A funeral speech is an opportunity to honor the deceased by highlighting their unique qualities, accomplishments, and the impact they had on the lives of others. The best eulogy ever would capture the essence of the person’s life and character, creating a lasting tribute that resonates with attendees. Famous eulogies, such as Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks, serve as inspiring examples of how to pay homage to a loved one.

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B. Comforting the bereaved

One of the primary purposes of a funeral speech is to provide comfort and solace to the bereaved family and friends. Sharing fond memories, funny eulogy examples, and heartfelt stories can help lighten the atmosphere and offer consolation to those in mourning. A well-crafted eulogy helps celebrate the person’s life while acknowledging the pain of their passing, striking the perfect balance between grief and happy memories.

C. Sharing memories and stories

A funeral speech allows you to share personal experiences and stories about the deceased, creating a tapestry of memories that paint a vivid picture of their life. Drawing from short eulogy examples and famous eulogies like Mona Simpson’s eulogy for Steve Jobs and Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson can help illustrate the impact one person can have on the lives of many. By sharing these stories, a funeral speech can create a sense of connection and closeness among the attendees, reminding us all of the special bond we shared with our beloved family member or close friend.

III. Gathering Information and Memories

A. talking to family and friends.

Before diving into writing the best eulogy ever, it’s essential to gather information and collect memories from family and friends of the deceased. This can help provide a more comprehensive understanding of the person’s life, character, and impact on others. Conversations with close friends and family members can reveal heartwarming stories and funny eulogy examples that might not be known otherwise. These anecdotes can help paint a vivid picture of the deceased, making the eulogy more authentic and relatable.

B. Reflecting on your own experiences with the deceased

In addition to gathering information from others, take the time to reflect on your own experiences and earliest memories with the deceased. This will allow you to recall fond memories and special moments you shared together. Consider how much one person’s life has influenced your own and what lessons you’ve learned from them. Personal stories and experiences can make the eulogy more genuine and create a deeper connection with the audience.

C. Organizing your thoughts

Once you’ve collected stories and memories from family, friends, and your own experiences, it’s time to organize your thoughts and determine the structure of your eulogy. Review various funeral eulogy examples, including famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks. Draw inspiration from these examples while keeping your eulogy unique and tailored to the person you are honoring.

As you organize your thoughts, consider incorporating elements from short eulogy examples, such as quotes, poems, or specific phrases that capture the essence of the person’s character. For instance, Cher shared a beautiful eulogy at Sonny Bono’s British memorial service, where she provided hope and comfort through her words.

By combining the gathered information, personal experiences, and inspiration from various eulogy examples, you can create a heartfelt tribute that honors the memory of your beloved family member or close friend.

IV. Structuring Your Funeral Speech

A. the opening: setting the tone.

Start your eulogy with an opening that sets the tone for the entire speech. You may choose to begin with a quote that represents the deceased, a personal anecdote, or simply an expression of love and admiration. Take inspiration from famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, or Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks. The opening should capture the essence of the person’s character and create an emotional connection with the audience.

B. The body: sharing stories and memories

Personal anecdotes.

In the body of your funeral speech, share personal anecdotes that illustrate the person’s life and the impact they had on others. These stories can be drawn from your own experiences, as well as those shared by family and friends. Personal anecdotes help paint a vivid picture of the deceased and offer a glimpse into their personality and values.

Humor and light moments

While grief is a natural part of any funeral speech, incorporating humor and light moments can provide relief and comfort to the bereaved. Funny eulogy examples, such as John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman or Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson, demonstrate how laughter can be a powerful healing tool. Be sure to balance humor with sensitivity, ensuring that your jokes and anecdotes are appropriate for the occasion.

Lessons learned and values cherished

Share the lessons learned and values cherished by the deceased throughout their life. This can include their beliefs, passions, and the wisdom they imparted on others. Referencing short eulogy examples or famous eulogies like Mona Simpson’s eulogy for Steve Jobs can provide inspiration for this section of your speech.

C. The closing: expressing gratitude and hope

In the closing of your funeral speech, express gratitude for the time spent with the deceased and the happy memories you shared. Offer hope for the future by sharing how the person’s life will continue to impact others, even in their absence. Use powerful words and phrases to create a lasting impression, aiming to make your eulogy one of the best eulogies ever.

Drawing from funeral eulogy examples, like Cher’s beautiful eulogy at Sonny Bono’s British memorial service, can help you find the perfect balance of heartfelt emotion and hope. By incorporating elements of famous eulogies and personal stories, your funeral speech will pay tribute to your beloved family member or close friend while providing comfort and solace to those in attendance.

V. Tips for Writing a Heartfelt Eulogy

A. be authentic and genuine.

When writing a eulogy, it’s essential to be authentic and genuine in your words and emotions. The best eulogy ever is one that comes from the heart and truly reflects the person’s life and character. Draw inspiration from funeral eulogy examples and famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks, but make sure to infuse your own unique voice and perspective.

B. Use descriptive language

Using descriptive language in your eulogy helps paint a vivid picture of the person’s life and experiences. By employing vivid imagery and evocative words, you can bring memories to life and create a more immersive experience for the audience. Descriptive language can enhance even short eulogy examples, making them more memorable and impactful.

C. Focus on the positive aspects of the deceased’s life

While acknowledging grief and loss is important, focusing on the positive aspects of the deceased’s life can provide comfort and solace to those mourning. Share fond memories, happy moments, and the positive qualities of the person to celebrate their life and legacy. Funny eulogy examples, like Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson or John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, show the power of humor in highlighting the positive aspects of a person’s life.

D. Keep it concise and organized

An effective eulogy is concise and well-organized, guiding the audience through the person’s life and experiences while maintaining their attention. To achieve this, make use of keywords and phrases that capture the essence of the person and their impact, such as “fond memories,” “beloved mother,” “best friend,” or “so much fun.” Drawing inspiration from famous eulogies and eulogy examples can help you structure your speech and ensure that it remains engaging and focused. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful eulogy that pays tribute to your loved one and leaves a lasting impression on those who hear it.

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VI. Preparing for Delivery

A. practice reading your speech.

To ensure that your eulogy flows smoothly and resonates with the audience, practice reading it aloud several times before the funeral. This will help you become familiar with the text, allowing you to convey your message with confidence. As you read, consider the pacing and tone of your speech, ensuring that it aligns with the examples of great eulogies you have researched.

B. Anticipate emotions and have a backup plan

Delivering a eulogy can be an emotional experience, especially when recounting fond memories of a close friend or family member. Anticipate the emotions that may arise during your speech and have a backup plan in place, such as pausing to compose yourself or asking someone else to continue reading on your behalf if needed. By preparing for these moments, you can ensure that your tribute remains heartfelt and genuine.

C. Speak slowly and clearly

When delivering your eulogy, speak slowly and clearly to ensure that your message is easily understood by all attendees. As you share stories and memories, use descriptive language and keywords like “best eulogy ever,” “funny eulogy examples,” and “fond memories” to paint a vivid picture of the person’s life. Drawing from famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks can help you find inspiration for your delivery style. By speaking with clarity and conviction, you can create a powerful tribute that honors the memory of your loved one and leaves a lasting impression on those present at the funeral.

VII. Delivering the Funeral Speech

A. establish a connection with the audience.

Begin your speech by establishing a connection with the audience. Acknowledge the shared sense of loss and grief, and express your gratitude for their presence. This will create an atmosphere of empathy and support, setting the stage for your eulogy.

B. Maintain eye contact and use body language

As you deliver your speech, maintain eye contact with the audience and use appropriate body language to convey your emotions. This will help you engage with the attendees and create a more immersive experience. Be mindful of your posture and gestures, ensuring that they reflect the tone and content of your eulogy.

C. Be mindful of your tone and pace

When delivering your funeral speech, be conscious of your tone and pace. Use keywords like “best eulogy ever,” “funeral eulogy examples,” and “fond memories” to guide your delivery. Draw inspiration from famous eulogies such as Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks. Speak slowly and clearly, allowing your words to resonate with the audience.

As you share stories and happy memories, adjust your tone to match the emotion of each anecdote. Strive to strike a perfect balance between honoring the person and acknowledging grief, taking cues from examples like Mona Simpson’s eulogy for Steve Jobs and Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson.

In conclusion, delivering a heartfelt eulogy is an important task in honoring the life of a close friend or family member. By following these tips and drawing inspiration from famous eulogies and eulogy examples, you can create a beautiful tribute that captures the essence of the person’s life, character, and special bond with their loved ones. Remember to be authentic, use descriptive language, and pay tribute to the person’s life and fond memories while providing hope and comfort to those in attendance.

VIII. Example Eulogies

  a. sample funeral speech for a parent.

Good afternoon, everyone.

Today, we come together in shared sorrow and collective admiration to bid farewell to a wonderful woman, my beloved mother, Susie. We gather here not only to mourn her passing but, more importantly, to celebrate the truly exceptional life she lived and the countless lives she touched in her time with us.

Susie was a woman of endless charm, warmth, and resilience – characteristics that deeply influenced my upbringing and those of my siblings. She had an uncanny ability to bring a sense of joy and peace to any room she walked into, even in times of chaos and confusion. With her radiant smile, she had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and appreciated. She was our North Star, the one who always guided us, always there to help us find our way back when we were lost.

When I think of my mother, a few memories immediately surface.

There was the time, in the depths of a harsh winter, when the neighborhood children were all huddled inside their homes, escaping the frosty chill. On that day, Susie gathered us all for an impromptu snowman-building competition. It wasn’t about the competition, but the unity, the shared laughter, the frostbitten fingers, and the warm cups of hot cocoa after that made it memorable. It was an embodiment of what she was to us all – a beacon of warmth, love, and unity.

Then there was the instance when I came home heartbroken from a failed math test. I remember the tears streaming down my face, the feeling of utter disappointment in myself. But Mom, she didn’t judge or criticize. She held me close and said, “In life, my dear, it’s not about the mistakes we make but how we learn from them.” And with her unwavering support, we tackled those equations together until they were no longer foreign to me. That was Susie, always there to pick us up when we stumbled, to turn our setbacks into comebacks, to show us that failing wasn’t the end but rather a chance to rise stronger.

Susie was also the core of our family, the glue that held us all together. She kept us rooted, reminding us about the importance of love, respect, and understanding in the family. Despite her struggles, despite the storms life threw at her, she never faltered in her dedication to her children and her unwavering faith in us. She was our greatest cheerleader, our most profound teacher, and our fiercest protector.

Losing her has created a void in our hearts, a silence in our lives that cannot be filled. But as we grieve, we also remember. We remember her laugh, echoing in the corners of our home. We remember her wisdom, imprinted deep within our hearts. And we remember her love, a love so powerful and so encompassing that it will continue to guide and strengthen us, even though she’s no longer physically with us.

As we say our final goodbyes today, let us remember Susie for the remarkable woman she was. Let’s honor her memory by embodying the values she taught us: compassion, resilience, love, and unity.

Susie, our dear mother, you are gone but never forgotten. Your spirit will live on within each of us, a guiding light in the dark, a comforting whisper in the wind, a constant reminder of the strength and love we carry within us, because of you.

Thank you for everything, Mom. We love you, and we will miss you always.

 B. Sample funeral speech for a sibling

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today, we stand united in grief and solidarity, as we bid farewell to a life that touched ours in ways words can barely encapsulate. A life that was too short yet immensely vibrant, filled with love, laughter, and countless shared moments. Today, we remember my brother, my confidante, my friend, Jack.

Growing up with Jack was nothing short of an adventure. He was the peanut butter to my jelly, the yin to my yang. As kids, we were inseparable. We shared not just a room, but countless secrets, dreams, laughter, and even the occasional sibling squabble. But through all the highs and lows, there was always an underlying foundation of unwavering brotherly love.

One story that springs to mind, encapsulating the spirit of Jack, was our great ‘Treehouse Escapade’. We were just about ten and twelve then, and had set our hearts on building the perfect treehouse in the large oak tree at the end of our garden. We had no idea what we were doing, armed only with a sketch on a crumpled piece of paper and the confidence that only children possess. It took us the entire summer, hammers slipping, nails bending, and more than one accidental thump on a thumb. But Jack, ever the optimist, would laugh off the blunders, transforming our little project into a whirlwind of joy.

That treehouse wasn’t architecturally sound, nor was it a spectacle to behold. But it was our haven, a testament to our shared dreams, our determination, and the magic that Jack brought into every task he undertook. He was always the beacon guiding us towards laughter and fun, turning even the most mundane activities into cherished memories.

Jack had a heart larger than life itself. He was the first to lend a hand to anyone in need, the first to cheer you up when you were down. His sense of humor was legendary, his laughter infectious. When he walked into a room, you couldn’t help but feel the energy change – brighter, lighter, better.

But Jack wasn’t just my older brother; he was my mentor, my guide, my protector. I remember when I was about to head off to college, nervous and unsure of what the future held. It was Jack who sat me down and said, “In life, you’re going to face challenges and make mistakes, but always remember that it’s these experiences that shape us. Embrace them. Learn from them. And remember, no matter where you are, you’ll always have a piece of home with you.”

Losing Jack feels like a chapter of our shared book has abruptly ended. Yet, I find solace in the memories we created together. Every shared joke, every heart-to-heart conversation, every shared dream, and even the bittersweet tears, are all fragments of a beautiful mosaic that depicts a bond that can never be broken.

Jack, my dear brother, I am grateful for every moment we shared, for every laugh, every story, every life lesson. You were my north star in the darkest nights, my compass when I lost my way, my anchor in the roughest storms.

As we say our final goodbyes, we carry your spirit with us, your joy, your kindness, your unwavering zest for life. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Until we meet again, Jack, thank you for being the best brother I could have ever asked for. I love you, and I will carry you in my heart always.

 C. Sample funeral speech for a friend

Dear Friends and Family,

Today we gather to remember a man whose life was as vibrant and dynamic as the waves of the ocean – forever in motion, brimming with energy, and touching the lives of everyone he met. A man who, in his time on earth, defined what it truly meant to be a friend, a confidante, a brother in spirit. We are here to celebrate the life of Mark.

Mark was more than a friend to all of us. He was the epitome of an adventurer, a soul that was forever curious, forever willing to explore the unknown, yet always ready to provide the comfort of familiarity when it was most needed.

One of the most unforgettable adventures we shared together was our unplanned road trip. I still remember that day. It was the kind of day when you feel the world weighing heavy on your shoulders. Mark turned up at my doorstep with nothing more than a mischievous grin and his beat-up old van, affectionately nicknamed “The Wanderer.” He looked at me and said, “The world is wide, and we are young. Let’s go get lost to find ourselves.”

What was supposed to be a day’s escape turned into a week of spontaneity. We slept under the stars, got lost more times than I can count, sang at the top of our lungs to songs we barely knew the lyrics to, and shared stories that made us laugh until our stomachs hurt. The journey didn’t just lighten the load I was carrying back then; it showed me the value of friendship, freedom, and living in the moment. That was Mark, a tornado of spontaneity, pulling you into an adventure you never knew you needed.

Yet, despite his love for adventure, Mark also had a calmness about him that was almost infectious. He had an uncanny ability to quiet the storm inside you with just a few words or a reassuring smile. He was my confidante, the one I could call at 2 AM to discuss life’s quandaries or the latest episode of a TV show we were both hooked on. He knew when to offer advice and when to simply listen, offering silence as a refuge from the chaos of the world.

Mark, my dear friend, your passing leaves a void in our lives that can never be filled. Your laughter, your spirit of adventure, your comforting presence – they are now but cherished memories, echoes of a friendship that will continue to live on in my heart.

As we say our final goodbyes, we remember you not with tears of sadness but with smiles, recalling the joy and happiness you brought into our lives. We remember you as you were – a beautiful soul, an adventurer, a beacon of light in our sometimes-dark world.

In honor of Mark, let’s not dwell in the sorrow of his departure. Instead, let’s celebrate the life he lived and the person he was. Let’s remember his unquenchable thirst for life, his deep and resounding laughter, and his unwavering loyalty as a friend.

Mark, you were the echo in the forest, the breeze on a summer day, and now the whisper in our hearts, forever reminding us of the bond we shared. Though we part ways today, the footprints you left on our hearts will remain. You will be greatly missed, my dear friend. Rest in peace, until we meet again.

Thank you, Mark, for the memories, the adventures, and most importantly, your friendship. We love you and will remember you always.

IX. Conclusion

A. the impact of a heartfelt funeral speech.

A well-crafted and heartfelt funeral speech can have a profound impact on the audience, providing solace and comfort during a time of grief. By incorporating elements from famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s, John Cleese’s, and Oprah Winfrey’s, as well as drawing from short eulogy examples and funny eulogy examples, you can create a powerful tribute that captures the essence of the person’s life and character. A funeral speech that shares fond memories and celebrates the entire life of a loved one can be remembered as the best eulogy ever, leaving a lasting impression on those who hear it.

B. Final thoughts on honoring the memory of a loved one

Honoring the memory of a close friend or family member through a funeral speech is a significant responsibility. Writing a eulogy that strikes the perfect balance between paying tribute to the person’s life and acknowledging grief can be an emotional and challenging process. However, by focusing on the person’s life, their impact on others, and the fond memories shared, you can create a beautiful eulogy that truly honors their memory. Remember to draw inspiration from examples like Steve Jobs’ eulogy by Mona Simpson or Sonny Bono’s eulogy by Cher, and always speak from the heart. In doing so, you will not only pay tribute to your loved one but also provide hope, comfort, and healing to all those in attendance.

At MemoryCherish, we understand the importance of honoring your loved one’s memory with a heartfelt and professionally crafted eulogy. Our team of experienced writers is dedicated to helping you create a beautiful tribute that captures the essence of the person’s life, character, and the fond memories shared. Let MemoryCherish be your partner in honoring your loved one’s memory with a professionally crafted eulogy. Reach out to us today and let us help you create a touching tribute that celebrates their life and provides comfort to those in attendance.

What makes the best eulogy?

The best eulogy is one that captures the essence of the person’s life, character, and impact on others while providing comfort to those in attendance. Key elements of the best eulogy include:

• Authenticity: Speak from the heart and share genuine emotions and experiences.
• Personal anecdotes: Share stories that highlight the person’s personality, values, and relationships.
• Balance: Strike a balance between honoring the person’s life and acknowledging grief.
• Positive aspects: Focus on the positive aspects of the deceased’s life, including accomplishments, passions, and happy memories.
• Emotional connection: Establish an emotional connection with the audience by using descriptive language and conveying empathy.
• Organization: Structure the eulogy with a clear beginning, middle, and end to guide the audience through the person’s life and experiences.

What is the best speech for a funeral?

The best speech for a funeral is one that pays tribute to the deceased while offering comfort and solace to the grieving family and friends. This can be achieved by:

• Sharing personal stories, anecdotes, and memories of the person.
• Focusing on the positive aspects of their life and the impact they had on others.
• Acknowledging the grief and loss felt by those in attendance.
• Using appropriate humor and light moments to provide relief and healing.
• Ensuring the speech is concise, well-organized, and delivered with sincerity and emotion.

What is the best closing line for a eulogy?

The best closing line for a eulogy is one that leaves a lasting impression, encapsulates the person’s life and legacy, and offers hope or inspiration to the audience. Some examples of powerful closing lines are:

• “May we carry [deceased’s name] memory in our hearts, allowing their spirit to live on through us.”
• “As we say our final goodbye, let us remember [deceased’s name] life and the love they brought to all who knew them.”
• “In the words of [deceased’s name], ‘Live fully, love deeply, and make a difference.’ Let us honor their memory by following this guiding principle.”
• “Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find solace in the beautiful memories of [deceased’s name] and the impact they had on our lives.”

Choose a closing line that reflects the person’s character and values, and leaves the audience with a sense of comfort and inspiration.

Writing a eulogy during this difficult time is hard. Our professional writers are here to help you capture your loved one’s essence and life beautifully.

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79 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!

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

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

How to Plan a Jewish Unveiling Ceremony

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

What are Memorial Websites?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Draw out important moments that signify lifelong connection.]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Rebecca Solnit, from her book The Faraway Nearby

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

Watch his TED Talk now:

About the authors

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

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

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Writing a eulogy: what to say at a funeral speech

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

What is a eulogy? 

A eulogy is a piece of writing or a speech that commemorates a person’s life. It’s also called a funeral speech and is usually shared at a funeral or memorial service. You could see it as a tribute to someone who’s passed away and a way to share memories of them. It’s an opportunity to look back at their life and talk about what made them unique.  

How to write a eulogy 

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

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

Writing a eulogy step by step 

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

Preparing a eulogy 

When you’re preparing the eulogy it’s a good idea to think about it in different sections (start, middle and ending) and then focus on writing each one in turn. You could write one section a day if you’re finding it difficult to sit down and write the whole eulogy at once.  

Before you start writing anything at all, you might like to chat to other friends and family members to hear their memories too. There might be specific things they’d like you to mention in the funeral speech. And if there’s more than one of you saying a few words at the funeral then you might want to get together to talk about what each of you would like to include in your speeches. This’ll help you avoid repeating the same stories and it could help you come up with new ideas too. 

"I did a eulogy for her on behalf of her children [...] I’d spent a long, long time writing and rewriting the eulogy. I wanted it to be spot on, honest and authentic."

How to start a eulogy 

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

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

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

What to say in a eulogy 

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

Things you could include in your eulogy: 

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

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

How to end a eulogy 

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

Quotes to end a eulogy

How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.

Only a moment you stayed, but what an imprint your footprints have left on our hearts.

Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.

Tips for speaking at a funeral

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

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

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

Examples of famous eulogies

Diana was the very essence of compassion, of duty, of style, of beauty. All over the world she was a symbol of selfless humanity.

It is the end of 95 glorious years of a freedom fighter, a dedicated and humble servant of the people of South Africa.

My Daddy was my hero […] He was working to change the world so everyone would love wildlife like he did.

Eulogy FAQs

Have a specific question about writing a eulogy? The answers below could help.

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

Close family or friends typically read the eulogy at a funeral. For example, children might give a eulogy at a parent’s funeral. But it can be anyone who was close to the person who died. Speaking at a funeral can be an overwhelming experience, so if you think reading the eulogy will be too much on the day, the celebrant (the person leading the service) can read it for you instead. 

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

Yes, a eulogy can be funny if you think it’s appropriate for the person you’re commemorating. Writing a eulogy is a good opportunity to celebrate a life well-lived and share funny anecdotes that’ll put a smile on people’s faces. But it’s also worth keeping in mind how other people attending will react to a more light-hearted funeral speech.  

You don’t have to have a eulogy at a funeral if it’s not the right choice for you. Each funeral service is unique, and so you might choose to play a song in tribute instead of writing a funeral speech. Or someone could recite a poem that feels appropriate. Alternatively, you don’t have to speak at a funeral at all, if it’s too much. And if you wanted to keep the service simple or have an unattended funeral (a cremation or burial without a service), a eulogy might not be appropriate at all.  

Yes, you can have more than one eulogy. Or you could have 2-3 speakers each delivering a part of one eulogy. Ultimately, it’s your decision as to how many eulogies or speakers you have at the funeral. 

A eulogy and an obituary are both written to commemorate someone’s life but a eulogy is usually the speech you’ll hear at a funeral service, and an obituary is written specifically for publication in a newspaper. 

The eulogy will be given during the funeral service or memorial service. Lots of people choose to deliver the eulogy towards the end of the service, as a final way of paying tribute. But this is completely up to you. If you’re unsure, your funeral director or celebrant can offer some advice about the order of service .  

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

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

Writing a eulogy for a difficult person: finding the right words to say

Funeral readings and quotes from literature

Writing an obituary

How to make a funeral order of service (with examples)

Photo by The Good Funeral Guide on Unsplash

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

Funeral speech examples from around the world.

By:  Susan Dugdale  

How do you begin to write a meaningful eulogy?

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

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

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

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

What's on this page:

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

Quick links

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

About these eulogy examples

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

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

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

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

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

To see them, jump to  eulogy samples .  

Return to Top

 Help to find specific eulogy examples easily

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

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

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

The story behind this collection of eulogies

It began with two funeral speeches  I had written. 

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

It was then I realized the need for more.  

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

The one for my sister was different in approach.

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

My two were definitely not enough! 

Offering a wider variety of funeral speeches 

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

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

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

Help to make writing a eulogy easier.

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

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

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

Why do people share a deeply personal speech?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Would you consider sharing it.

It would help others enormously.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When you're ready...

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

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Professional Eulogy Writing

Eulogy writing guide, funeral speeches for a work colleague, tribute speech to dad from daughter, funeral speech writing advice, reflection speech at a funeral.

• February 14, 2024

Table of Contents

1. Choose the Right Tone

Recognizing the visionaries behind our soulful journey, weaving narratives of inspirational influence and wisdom, echoes of gratitude: testimonies from the enlightened paths, what is a reflection speech at a funeral, how long should a reflection speech be, who is best suited to give a reflection speech, can i include humor in a reflection speech, how do i start a reflection speech, what should be included in a reflection speech, is it okay to show emotion during the speech, how can i prepare for giving a reflection speech, should i avoid certain topics in a reflection speech, can i use props or visual aids, how do i handle my nerves before speaking, what tone should i aim for in the speech, can i include religious or spiritual elements, how do i conclude a reflection speech, is it appropriate to invite others to share their memories, how do i personalize the speech for the deceased, should i memorize the speech or read from notes, can i share a poem or a reading in my speech, how can i engage with the audience during the speech, is it okay to include quotes from the deceased, what if i get too emotional to continue, 2. share personal memories, 3. connect with others, 4. keep it meaningful and concise, 5. practice makes perfect, reflection speech at a funeral example, eulogy assistant: saluting the guides of our spiritual evolution, frequently asked questions.

A reflection speech at a funeral is an opportunity for someone close to the deceased to share heartfelt memories, stories, and the essence of who the person was. This type of speech is an important part of the grieving process, offering closure and helping others connect with the person who has passed away. In this article, we'll share key components of a reflection speech, practical tips for getting started & a realistic example.

A reflection speech should capture the personality of your loved one and reflect their essence. For some, this might mean incorporating humor, while for others, it may involve highlighting aspects of the person's life that were meaningful and impactful. Find a balance between acknowledging the grief and sadness, while also celebrating the positive memories and the legacy your loved one left behind.

In a reflection speech, it's essential to share what made your loved one special to you. Share stories of moments that truly capture their spirit and show their true character. Include experiences that highlight their values, passions, or accomplishments, and demonstrate the impact they had on you and others.

One of the most powerful aspects of a funeral reflection speech is its ability to resonate with those in attendance. This is a chance for everyone to collectively remember the person who has passed away. Share stories and sentiments that others can relate to or find comfort in, allowing them to feel a connection and better understand who your loved one was.

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While there may be many stories and memories you'd like to share, focus on the most meaningful and impactful ones. Aim for a speech that's around 5-7 minutes in length, striking a balance between providing enough detail while still being manageable for attendees to absorb and process.

Once you have crafted your speech, practice it multiple times to ensure you feel prepared and confident. This will help you deliver the speech with poise and clarity, even in the midst of an emotional event.

Ladies and gentlemen, family, and friends, we are gathered here today not just in grief, but also in celebration of a life that was lived with purpose, love, and joy. As we bid farewell, I wish to reflect on the journey of a remarkable individual whose life has been a beacon of inspiration and whose memory will continue to light our way.

Our beloved, whose departure leaves an indelible mark on our hearts, began their life in a time and place that shaped their early years with simplicity and profound life lessons. They grew up learning the importance of family, the value of hard work, and the joy of living in harmony with nature. These formative years were replete with stories and experiences that they often fondly recounted, painting vivid pictures of a childhood that was both challenging and blissfully innocent.

As they journeyed through adolescence, they blossomed into a person of strong character and resilience. They were not just a student of books but a student of life, absorbing lessons that would guide them throughout their existence. Their youthful days were marked by dreams and aspirations, some of which they pursued with a passion that was both admirable and contagious.

Entering adulthood, our beloved carved out a path that was uniquely theirs. They chose a career that not only challenged them but also allowed them to make meaningful contributions to the world. Their professional life was a testament to their dedication, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Colleagues became friends, and friends became family, each bond strengthened by mutual respect and shared experiences.

In their personal life, they were a pillar of love and strength. As a spouse, they were a partner in the truest sense of the word, sharing in joys, sorrows, and the mundane yet precious moments of daily life. As a parent, they were a nurturing presence, guiding their children with a balance of wisdom, compassion, and discipline. Their home was a sanctuary of love, laughter, and warmth, where everyone was welcome, and memories were made.

Perhaps one of the most endearing qualities of our beloved was their ability to connect with people from all walks of life. They had a rare gift of making everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. Their friendships were not superficial but deep and meaningful, forged through shared experiences and a genuine interest in the wellbeing of others.

Throughout their life, our beloved faced their share of challenges and adversities. Each obstacle, each setback, was met with a quiet determination and an unwavering spirit. They taught us that in the face of hardship, one finds the true measure of their character. Their resilience in difficult times was an inspiration, a reminder that even in darkness, there is hope and strength.

Their passion for life extended beyond their work and family. They had a diverse array of interests and hobbies that reflected their zest for life and their insatiable curiosity. Whether it was through art, literature, travel, or music, they embraced the world with open arms, finding joy and beauty in every experience.

As they aged, their wisdom deepened, and they became a mentor and role model to many. They embraced each chapter of their life with grace and gratitude, imparting lessons and sharing stories that enriched the lives of those around them. In their twilight years, their presence was a source of comfort and inspiration, a testament to a life well-lived.

Today, as we reflect on their life, we are filled with a mixture of sorrow for our loss and gratitude for having known them. We are reminded of the fragility of life and the enduring impact one person can have on so many. Our beloved may have left this earthly realm, but their legacy lives on in each of us. They live on in the memories we cherish, the lessons they taught, and the love they shared.

In parting, I am reminded of a quote that our beloved often shared: “Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” They lived their life dancing, embracing each moment with courage, joy, and an open heart.

As we say our final farewell, let us honor their memory by carrying forward the values they embodied. Let us live our lives with kindness, embrace each day with gratitude, and cherish the relationships we have. Let us find comfort in knowing that their spirit remains with us, guiding us, inspiring us, and reminding us of the beauty and preciousness of life.

Farewell, dear friend. You have left an indelible mark on our hearts and our lives. Your journey through this world was a gift to us all, and your memory will forever be a source of light and inspiration. Rest in peace, knowing that you were deeply loved and will always be remembered.

In the moments of quiet reflection that usher us into a space of gratitude, the endeavor to encapsulate the impact of a spiritual visionary can seem as vast as the night sky itself. This act of homage to such a transformative figure in our spiritual evolution is a profound expression of reverence, where our deepest respect is beautifully interwoven with heartfelt emotion. Eulogy Assistant is by your side in this meaningful endeavor, delicately piecing together tributes that resonate with honor and deep affection, and transforming cherished memories into timeless commemorations.

Our adept team, proficient in the delicate art of eulogy creation, is here to guide you in spotlighting the enlightened journey and the indelible legacy of your spiritual visionary. Eulogy Assistant extends beyond mere service, cultivating a partnership enriched with empathy and insightful understanding, committed to celebrating a life that has profoundly shaped the spiritual contours of many.

At Eulogy Assistant , we operate with the conviction that the most heartfelt eulogies spring from a collaborative melding of personal memories and professional expertise. By integrating your personal reflections with our acumen, we construct a tribute that not only honors but resonates deeply, authentically capturing the essence of your spiritual visionary's lasting impact.

Our methodology is rooted in genuine partnership and the synthesis of collective insights. Your stories and experiences are invaluable, enabling us to create a narrative that authentically celebrates the spirit and transformative guidance of your spiritual mentor. This process is an homage to their legacy of inspiration, the wisdom shared, and the pathways to spiritual growth they've illuminated.

Together, we aim to compile a narrative that truly represents your spiritual visionary—a eulogy that transcends the ordinary, rich with respect, personal anecdotes, and emotional depth. Our collective creation emerges as a moving tribute, a testament to the profound admiration and spiritual connection your guide has fostered.

The essence of Eulogy Assistant shines through in the heartfelt gratitude and moving narratives from those we've been privileged to assist. These testimonials underscore our dedication to providing guidance and comfort during their moments of homage.

"Facing the challenge of honoring my spiritual visionary, I found unparalleled guidance and support in Eulogy Assistant , enabling me to craft a eulogy that truly celebrated their spiritual essence and transformative impact," shares Alex, conveying their heartfelt thanks.

"The personalized attention and depth of expertise from Eulogy Assistant were a cornerstone in my journey of remembrance, enabling me to create a tribute that wasn’t merely words but a profound homage to my spiritual mentor," says Taylor, grateful for the nurturing journey.

These stories reinforce our commitment to creating eulogies that are not merely expressions of respect and homage but are rich, heartfelt celebrations of the spiritual visionaries who have significantly illuminated our paths toward deeper understanding and growth. We are honored to assist you in this journey, paying tribute to the unique legacies of those who have been beacons of wisdom and guidance, and crafting eulogies that serve as enduring tributes to their mentorship and enlightenment.

Together, let’s forge narratives that are deeply personal, imbued with respect, and truly capture the essence of the visionaries behind our soulful journey.

A reflection speech at a funeral is a personal and heartfelt address that reminisces about the life, character, and memories of the deceased.

Ideally, a reflection speech should be around 5-10 minutes, long enough to share meaningful insights but concise enough to keep the audience engaged.

Close family members, friends, or anyone who had a significant relationship with the deceased are well-suited to give a reflection speech.

Yes, if it's in good taste and reflects the personality of the deceased, humor can be a touching addition.

Begin with a brief introduction of yourself, your relationship with the deceased, and perhaps a meaningful quote or saying that reflects their essence.

Include personal stories, characteristics of the deceased, shared experiences, and the impact they had on your life and others.

Absolutely, showing emotion is natural and helps convey the depth of your relationship with the deceased.

Prepare by writing down your thoughts, practicing your speech, and reflecting on the memories you wish to share.

It's best to avoid controversial, overly personal, or negative topics that might upset the audience or disrespect the memory of the deceased.

Yes, using photographs or other meaningful items as visual aids can enhance your reflection speech.

Take deep breaths, remember your purpose in honoring the deceased, and speak from the heart.

Aim for a tone that is respectful, heartfelt, and reflective of the deceased’s personality.

If it aligns with the beliefs of the deceased and the family, including religious or spiritual elements can be fitting.

Conclude with a final tribute to the deceased, a thank you to the attendees, and perhaps a comforting or hopeful message.

Yes, inviting others to share their memories can make the reflection more inclusive and diverse.

Personalize by sharing specific anecdotes, traits, and reasons why they were special to you and others.

While memorization is ideal, it's perfectly acceptable to read from notes to ensure you cover all your points.

Yes, sharing a poem, reading, or other literary piece that was meaningful to the deceased or to your relationship with them can be very poignant.

Make eye contact, speak clearly, and express your feelings genuinely to create a connection with the audience.

Including memorable quotes or sayings from the deceased can add a personal and touching element to the speech.

If you become overwhelmed, it's okay to pause, take a moment, or ask someone else to finish the speech for you.

Creating a beautiful reflection speech at a funeral is a meaningful way to honor the life and memory of your loved one. By sharing stories that capture their essence, connecting with others, and practicing your delivery, you can create a powerful and heartfelt tribute.

Looking For Examples? Here Are Some of The Best Eulogies

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Eulogy Examples: How to Write a Eulogy for a Loved One

By Bernie Flowers

How do you distill a lifetime of memories and experiences into a 15-minute eulogy? It’s an honor to hold the responsibility of eulogizing your loved one, but it can feel like a challenge to fit everything you want to say in one speech.

Instead of making the funeral attendees feel like they are reading an encyclopedia from cover-to-cover, look for ways to highlight the rich life experiences that matter most. A eulogy should be a sampling of the best the person had to offer including accomplishments, personality traits, and memorable stories.

When it comes to eulogy writing, you can search online for ideas and examples. But the most important thing you need to keep in mind: quality over quantity .

All this being said, we would advise having a professional write your Eulogy for you and you can avail of our Eulogy Writing Concierge Service

What is a Eulogy?

Giving a eulogy means that you are sharing a remembrance speech with the purpose of paying tribute to a loved one. This speech is given at the funeral or memorial service by a family member or close friend.

A good eulogy highlights the lasting impact of the person on their family and community. Through your speech, you’ll have an opportunity to share their unique qualities, as well as the ripple effect of positivity and change they created in the world around them.

How can you best honor  your loved one? A eulogy can be a part of your healing, and a beautiful way to reflect on the details that were most special about them.

Eulogy Examples

One of the simplest ways to write a eulogy is to review a eulogy speech example that matches your own preferred tone and style. What makes a eulogy unique is the unique details you’ll share about the person themselves, which is why it’s essential to customize your eulogy to honor and celebrate the personality of your loved one.

You may want to start with our primer on how to write a eulogy . Then, use the following outline and eulogy examples to create a strong speech  that communicates the message you want to share about the person who meant so much to you.

Eulogy Sample Outline

Using a eulogy sample outline is a proven way to create a great speech. Remember those Mad Libs books from your childhood? This process is similar: follow the outline and plug in the personal details applicable to your loved one. 

These eulogy samples help you overcome writer's block and keep you focused on the details that matter most. Aim to cap the eulogy at a maximum of 10 minutes total. The simplest eulogy outline can be broken down into three parts, so you’ll need to consider how much time to spend on each section:

• Set the tone by beginning with a poem, quote, or scripture that was meaningful to the person.
• Names they were known by, including nicknames and maiden names.
• Cause of death (an optional detail).
• A brief insight into your relationship with the individual.
• Accomplishments
• Major life events
• Stories or fond memories
• How the person affected others
• Childhood years
• Travel adventures
• Marriage and children
• Any other thoughts you want to share about the person
• A final take away from your theme
• How you want family and friends to remember the individual
• What the person would want you to remember them for
• Quote, scripture, or song lyric
• Thank attendees for participating

Eulogy Examples for a Friend

It can be helpful to write this eulogy as if you were talking to a friend. Common talking points might include:

• Common activities enjoyed together
• What you like most about the person
• Personality traits or phrases they often use
• How you would describe the person
• What will you remember them by?

Here is a eulogy example for a friend:

I can’t imagine how empty it will feel to spend time on the basketball court without Jim by my side. Our relationship was built with a basketball in hand, and evolved to share many family gatherings and other activities together over the years. With his passing, Jim is leaving behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and generosity.

Jim shared good humor and a big smile with everyone he met. Even though people often cursed at his practical jokes, he was an integral part of creating a solid foundation of friendship in our group. When times were difficult, he could always put a smile on my face. He held his head high until the end, showing what it looks like to finish strong.

Eulogy Examples for Your Father

Writing a eulogy for your dad may be really tough. How do you memorialize your hero amid grief and emotion? We hope these tips and the example below will help you in your process. 

• Share childhood experiences when spending time with dad
• Talk about his best qualities
• Capture his essence through “dad jokes” and the things that made you laugh
• Tell about the things you will miss most about him
• Describe his role in your upbringing

Here is a eulogy example for your father:

My dad was my hero. He could make every person feel like they were the most important person in the world. Growing up, I knew that I could always ask Dad for help – and he would be willing to drop anything to lend a hand. He was a rock of stability in my childhood and a source of strength for our whole family.

My father was a man who infused fun into the most mundane tasks. I remember how he would turn our bedtime routine into an adventure that included highlights from our favorite storybooks. He was a kind and thoughtful person. Every night at the dinner table, he encouraged us to talk about the things we were grateful for, and always had yummy treats for us kids hidden in the back of the pantry. I will miss you, Dad, and I’ll always hold onto the amazing memories we shared together.

Eulogy Examples for Your Mother

How can you ever do justice to a eulogy for your beloved mother – the woman who was always there with love and guidance through the ups and downs, the celebrations and challenging moments of your life? Here are a few tips for writing a eulogy for your mother:

• Describe the way she showed her love for you
• Celebrate the small ways she turned your house into a home
• Highlight the impact she made throughout the community
• Explain the smells, sounds, and feelings you felt when arriving home
• Share stories from childhood and adulthood that reflect her character

Here is a eulogy example for your mother:

Today we are honoring, celebrating, and remembering {mom’s full name]. She was a woman of grace and courage, with a stubborn streak that showed up when she set her mind to something, like going back to school to become a nurse at age 40. 

My mother was truly my best friend and I am humbled by the challenge of describing the fullness of her beauty and caring here today. I don't know how she did it, but Mom always found the perfect balance between work and home. Even though she worked 40 – 50 hours a week to support us, she prioritized family dinner. That time was sacred to our family. Her love and kindness were infused in everything she did, whether she was baking cookies for a bake sale to help the hospital or sewing our Halloween costumes by hand year after year. 

She had a magical way of bringing joy every time she walked into the room. No one who met her could forget her smile. And I’ll never forget the advice and the lessons she taught me. Her wisdom will forever guide the decisions I make through the rest of my life. I love you, Mom.

Eulogy Examples for Your Grandmother

How do you share the details about the love you felt through your relationship with a grandmother? Follow these tips to write a good eulogy for this important woman:

• Talk about the fun traditions she brought for your favorite holiday
• What was she known for in the community?
• How did her influence touch your life?
• What are the daily moments that will remind you of her?
• Share funny stories that showcase her quirks or sense of humor

Here is a eulogy example for your grandmother:

My grandmother paid attention to the details – it was the little things that added the finishing touch to every experience. Whether she was setting out the treat jar on the kitchen table or clinking the glass while drinking her iced tea, she always prioritized food and drinks.

Since she loved to shop, grandma would often take us to the mall when we were visiting for the weekend. We would have fashion shows in the dressing rooms and often come home with bright, frilly dresses that were perfect for twirling.

When grandpa was away for the war, grandma was an example of always getting back up again when things get hard. She never complained; just worked hard and supported her family at all times. Despite the personal challenges, she always looked outside of herself – which is why she will be remembered as a beacon of light in this community.

Eulogy Examples for Your Grandfather

What are the details that make your grandfather larger than life? Here are a few ideas to help when writing a eulogy for this great man:

• Explain the qualities that best describe his personality
• Tell about the details that made him stand out from other grandparents
• What hobbies or passions did he share with the family?
• How will the neighborhood or community remember him?
• Talk about stories that were life-changing moments for him

Here is a eulogy example for your grandfather:

Even though my grandfather didn’t like to be the center of attention, he had an undeniable impact on the community. If he was here with us today, he wouldn’t want us to share grief and sorrow. Instead, his desire would be to focus on the happy memories and joyful experiences shared over the years.

Grandpa was a man who set a lasting impression on everyone he met. His deep laugh and kind eyes warmed the room and brought life into the most boring daily activities. Grandpa loved spending time with his grandkids because he said that it made him feel young at heart.

He was a great teacher and a dependable friend. His advice and guidance will continue to carry me through the joys and challenges that life has to offer.

Eulogy Examples for Your Brother

Siblings share a special bond, giving you deep insights to share about your brother. Follow these tips for writing a good eulogy:

• What was it like growing up in the same house together?
• Describe the way your relationship changed in adulthood
• Share funny stories about sibling rivalries
• Explain the lasting impact he left on you and the family
• List his favorite hobbies and food

Here is a eulogy example for your brother:

While it’s tragic to think about Kyle leaving us too soon, he left behind a lifetime of memories that we can celebrate. Kyle was always ready for a fun day with friends – he would have been the one showing up today with the perfect playlist for the event.

Even though my brother was a few years older than me, he always included me in the adventures with his friends. I never felt like the little brother he was dragging along. He made me feel special and included in the group, and helped me build confidence along the way.

Kyle was my best friend and I can’t imagine what life is going to be like without him sending me funny cat memes every night. But I know that his memory will live on when I eat his favorite pizza or hear his favorite band on the radio.

Eulogy Examples for Your Sister

If you’ve lost a sibling, we are truly sorry, Writing a eulogy for your sister can be a way to honor her through your memories of your childhood and growing up with her, as well as the milestones of her life. A few ideas for this eulogy include:

• Share her notable life accomplishments
• Retell your favorite stories from growing up together
• Highlight the kind of person she was
• Summarize your relationship in a few short words
• Talk about what she meant to you and how she influenced your life

Here is a eulogy example for your sister:

My sister, Kim, might have been a little shy at the first introduction. But once she warmed up to a friendship, she always had plenty to say every time she talked. Kim loved to share stories from her time volunteering at the children’s hospital and she had a beautiful gift of making everyone feel like the most important person in the world.

We were only a year apart, which meant that I was the younger sister who was often stealing her clothes or listening in on her conversations with her boyfriend. Even though I was the pesky sibling who cracked jokes about her unique style, she was everything I wanted to be when I grew up. She was independent, strong, and beautiful. She was a free spirit who wasn’t afraid to act boldly, like moving to Paris after college and starting her own business. She was my partner in crime, and I could always tell her everything. She will never be replaced. . My dear sister, I love you and I will be forever grateful for every moment we spent together.

Short Eulogy Examples

Short and sweet is a good rule of thumb to follow when writing a eulogy. Consider these important talking points if you want to write a short eulogy:

• Highlight the person’s passions or interests
• What were the most memorable times you spent together?
• Sum up the person’s character using a story or memory
• Express your gratitude for the impact the person had on your life
• Talk about their influence on family and community

Here is a short eulogy example:

The years I spent with Kathy in my life were filled with excitement and adventure. She showed up for life in the biggest way possible. From the moment she shared her cookie with me on the first day of kindergarten, I knew we would be best friends.

She spent many years working as a teacher, and her heart was big enough to offer individual attention to every child that walked into her classroom. Kathy made a difference in the lives of hundreds of children over the years, and her kindness and positivity will leave an unwavering legacy in this community.

Funny Eulogy Examples

Sometimes a bit of humor is the perfect way to lighten the mood and showcase the personality of your loved one. Consider these tips if you want to add a few jokes into the eulogy:

• Point out the person’s comedic qualities
• Be specific about sharing their jokes or pranks
• Look for ways to communicate what the person would say if they wrote the speech
• Find the right balance of humor to share laughs without being irreverent
• Share a funny poem or a quote from the person’s favorite movie

Here is a funny eulogy example:

Anyone who met Josh quickly learned that there are always laughs to be shared. It was impossible to spend time with him without enjoying a gut-busting laugh at some point in the conversation. Josh was known as the class clown, and his jokes were quick-witted and hilarious.

Who could forget the time Josh showed up to the family reunion wearing that ridiculous blow-up dinosaur costume? He chased the kids around the park until everyone laughed until they were crying.

Many funny memories came out of our family camping trips. He couldn’t sit down to enjoy a peaceful campfire. Instead, the s’more making always seemed to turn into a marshmallow fight – with white puffs flying through the air when you least expected it. Josh kept a smile on my face through the ups and downs of life, and I will keep on smiling in his honor.

Personalizing the Eulogy

As you read through these funeral eulogy examples, the most important thing to remember is that there isn’t a right or wrong way to write a eulogy. Instead, consider the best way to share the person in the way they would want others to remember them. It’s your chance to verbalize your love and honor the memories of your loved one.

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

Last updated: 22 April 2022

Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay

What is a eulogy?

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

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

Who gives a eulogy at a funeral?

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

What is the purpose of a eulogy?

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

What should be included in a eulogy?

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

Why is a eulogy important?

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

Examples of a eulogy - what to say

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

How to get your ideas for a Eulogy together

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

How long should a eulogy be?

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

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Funeral Speech Examples: Saying Goodbye With Love

A funeral speech or eulogy remembers a loved one by reminding other mourners of their good qualities and their impact on the lives of all in attendance. The content of a eulogy should be positive and uplifting as the speaker offers a final goodbye.

Although most of us will never be professionals at public speaking,  many of us will someday have to speak to a relatively large group of people as we deliver a eulogy for a loved one.  Knowing how to put together a touching eulogy speech that accurately encompasses the deceased’s life is an art form anyone can accomplish by following a few easy steps.

Table of Contents

What Should You Say At A Funeral When You Give The Eulogy?

When giving a funeral eulogy , one can approach it in many ways. Most eulogies happen at the funeral home, at a memorial service, during a church service, or at a celebration of life. The circumstance and location of the eulogy will sometimes help shape the type of speech you will give.

What Are Some Tips For Giving A Good Funeral Speech?

Preparing the eulogy involves gathering memories, writing them down, and practicing, especially if you feel you might become emotional.

There are seven steps to writing a good eulogy, or tribute speech to the deceased.

• Speak to friends and family members of the deceased.  Even though you are a close family friend, many others who knew the deceased well might have stories and insights to contribute. Meet people for coffee or make some phone calls so you can gather stories to help you prepare your eulogy.
• Choose a theme and tone.  Ask yourself what type of stories would best and most accurately depict your best friend and loved one. A funny eulogy would be perfect if they were the kind of person who always had people laughing. However, a more reserved memorial might be more appropriate for some people. The most important thing is that you speak from the heart.
• Consider the audience and location.  If you are invited to give a eulogy as part of a church funeral service, the tone may be very different than if you are speaking at a celebration of life at a local bar.
• Introduce yourself as you speak.  This will help everyone there to know why you are speaking by defining your relationship with the deceased and the family. Someone who has been lifelong friends with someone can speak to many aspects of their life, for example.
• Give some information about the deceased.  Stories and memories can get the point across. Just be certain not to say anything that might be hurtful or embarrass the family. The eulogy is not the place for dirty laundry.
• Connect all of the information.  Whether you are speaking in a theme or just bringing the stories full circle to explain what kind of person the deceased was, this is important to helping to wrap things up.
• Conclude the speech.  You may end your eulogy simply by stating that you are honored to have been given the opportunity to speak or by adding a funeral quote about loss or grief.

What Words Can You Use In A Funeral Speech?

• Anecdotes  from the person’s life are always fun because all of our lives are comprised of a million little things that have happened to us. These help paint a picture of who we are.
• Excerpts from books  are often included as a means of making a particular point.
• Favorite memories  should be shared as long as others assembled will find them relatable. Avoid stories that are too personal or where others will feel alienated when listening.
• Funny stories  are excellent, especially if the deceased had an exceptional sense of humor.
• Poems  are a beautiful way to remember a lost loved one, and they uniquely offer comfort.
• Quotes  or  song lyrics  are a beautiful way to either start or end a eulogy. Another lovely idea is to end with a quote from a song and then have the music played. It allows for a touching transition.

What Are Some Good Topics To Talk About At A Funeral?

Reminiscing with the audience about the deceased can start out in many ways. Sometimes people start with the  first time they met someone.  Of course, there are  many firsts in a person’s life.  It could be the first time close friends went fishing together, and it ended in a tipped boat. Telling funny stories can help people cope during difficult times.

If you use the deceased person’s  nickname , explain where it came from or why it stuck.

For someone loved by all, it may be appropriate to start the eulogy with “dear friends.” After all, what better way to pull in everyone listening than to acknowledge that the deceased was a friend to all?

Choosing memories or stories from when the deceased was a little girl or boy, to high school stories, to college to adulthood is an excellent way to provide a  chronological life timeline.  Some eulogy templates follow this method.

Other sample eulogies follow the  three-story process.  In this one, the person giving the eulogy chooses three stories that can be connected in some way to help illustrate a life well lived.

Short Eulogy Examples

Sometimes a short and sweet eulogy is best because you worry about keeping your composure when speaking. Also, many people give short stories or memories at some celebration of life events. Whatever the reason you are leaning toward a short eulogy speech, you can say a lot in very few words.

For a Friend:  “Starting on that first day of high school when I could not get my locker open, and Amanda helped me, making us both late for class, I knew I had a friend for life. As I spoke to people about Amanda, I heard over and over that she gave often and selflessly. She will be terribly missed, and the world is a darker place without her.”

For an Older Brother:  “My brother was my first best friend, and I simply can’t imagine life without him in it. He was my protector and my confidant. My fishing buddy and my personal cheerleader. He pushed me to be the best version of myself, and I am struggling to imagine a life without him in it. I love you, Matt.”

For a Co-Worker:  “Having worked with Art for over 20 years, I can attest, he was a staunch perfectionist who helped us all to be better in the workplace and in life. Art led by example, worked hard to lead our team and also reminded us of the importance of keeping work and home life balance. Art was the best boss I have ever had, and although eventually, someone will have to sit at his desk, no one will ever take his place.”

What Are Some Examples Of Funeral Speeches?

When seeking eulogy examples, why not read (or watch) what are arguably five of the best eulogies ever?

• Barack Obama’s Eulogy Speech for John McCain
• Oprah Winfrey’s Eulogy for Rosa Parks
• Ronald Regan Gives Impromptu Eulogy for Space Shuttle Challenger
• Ted Kennedy’s Tribute Speech to his nephew John F Kennedy, Jr.
• Mickey Mantle’s Eulogy Delivered by Bob Costas

A former English teacher and currently an elementary principal in a rural school, Pam has honed her speaking skills in the classroom and before professional groups. Pam enjoys sharing her insights about public speaking almost as much as she enjoys running, which she does daily.

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What to Say to Someone at a Funeral

Last Updated: April 26, 2023 Fact Checked

Expressing Condolences

Writing & delivering a eulogy, giving a short funeral speech.

This article was co-authored by Vernita Marsh, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Johnathan Fuentes . Dr. Vernita Marsh is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the CEO and Founder of Dr. Vernita Marsh & Associates and The Marsh Clinics®. With over 30 years of clinical psychology experience, she specializes in relationship therapy, grief counseling, family therapy, and intimate partner abuse counseling. Dr. Marsh offers consultation for therapists, coaches, and trainees of mental health. Dr. Marsh earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology from Michigan State University and completed both her postdoctoral and fellowship training at Harvard Medical School. She also has expertise in the area of Telehealth and has received Clinical Telehealth Health Provider Certification from Evergreen. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 4,681 times.

Speaking at a funeral can be stressful and heartbreaking, but it’s also a chance to express your condolences and even give a eulogy honoring the person who died. If you’ve never done this before, don’t be intimidated. Expressing sympathy and speaking are things that anyone can do. Keep reading to learn how to express your condolences for someone’s loss, or deliver a eulogy or speech at a funeral that will remind everyone of how much their loved one meant to them, and to you.

Things You Should Know

• Express condolences to friends and family with statements like “I’m sorry for your loss,” “You’re in my prayers,” and “If you need anything, I’m here.”
• If you’re giving a eulogy, talk about the person’s life, personality, and relationships. Include sweet, inspiring, or funny anecdotes, and make it 5-10 minutes long.
• For shorter speeches, tell a story illustrating the connection you shared with the person who died. Choose something personal and special to share.

• “Please accept my condolences” (if you want to be a bit more formal). [2] X Research source
• “My deepest sympathies to you and your family.”
• “I’m heartbroken for your loss.”

• “Words can’t express how sorry I am for your loss.”
• “I’m stunned. I’m so, so sorry.”
• “This is such a loss. I just can’t believe it.”

• “They were a wonderful neighbor”
• “They were such an important member of the community.”
• “I’m so grateful to have had them in my life.”

• “May God comfort you and your family,”
• “God be with you,” and so on.
• “My heart is with you in this time of loss” (if you prefer something more secular). [6] X Research source

• “They were a great leader.”
• “I learned so much from them.”
• “They were such an inspiration.”

• “It was a privilege to serve alongside them” (if you served together and had similar ranks).
• “It was an honor to serve under their command” (if they were your superior officer).
• I’m grateful for their service to my country/community” (if you’re not a service member, or didn’t serve with them).

• “Reach out to me anytime, for anything” (to show that you’ll still be emotionally supportive and available in the future).
• “If you need to talk, I’m only a text or phone call away.”
• “My door is always open.”

• A funny or heartfelt memory you shared together.
• The day you met, or your earliest memory of them.
• A story they shared with you about their life

• Jokes they loved to tell.
• What they were like when they were young.
• The way they raised their children (if they had any)
• Their relationship with their partner or spouse
• Things they did with friends (vacations, outings, pranks, and so on).
• Their careers (especially major accomplishments or honors)
• How hard they fought while they were sick (if they passed away from an illness)

• Keep your closing remarks under 2 minutes long.
• The eulogy should last 5-10 minutes, in total.
• Write down the eulogy and bring a copy with you. Read from it if needed.

• How you met the person who died.
• A funny moment you shared.
• A trip or adventure you went on together.
• An activity or hobby you both enjoyed.
• A time when they helped or supported you.
• Memories from when you were both young.

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

• ↑ https://www.researchgate.net/publication/328853571_Condolences_in_English
• ↑ https://youtu.be/doIOwBbWmlU?t=222
• ↑ https://youtu.be/doIOwBbWmlU?t=270
• ↑ https://s3.amazonaws.com/CFSV2/fileuploads/8286/EulogyTemplate.pdf
• ↑ https://textbooks.whatcom.edu/cmst220/chapter/eulogy/
• ↑ https://politicalscience.case.edu/2012/02/19/poscnews30/
• ↑ https://edge.sagepub.com/sites/default/files/special_section_02_module01.pdf

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

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

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

How to write a funeral speech, according to real celebrants

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

Work out the length

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

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

Choose a topic

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

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

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

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

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

Follow your instincts

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

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

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

Be even-handed

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

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

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

Be honest — even about the difficult bits

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

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

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

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

Remember, it’s not all about you

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

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

Don’t be flowery, be specific

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

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

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

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

For more inspiration…

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

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

  Meet the celebrants

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

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

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

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

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9 Creative Ways to Remember Someone Who Has Died 0

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

9 special things to do to remember someone who has died

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

Start a tradition for their birthday

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

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

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

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

Talk to them

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

Take a trip 

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

Keep something of theirs close by

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

Go big with a firework display

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

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

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

Get something dedicated to them

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

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

Write to them

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

Support a cause that mattered to them

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

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

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

Visit their grave or scattering place

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

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

Share your favourite ways to remember someone who has died

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

10 Funny Funeral Poems for an Uplifting Service 0

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

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

Pardon Me For Not Getting Up by Kelly Roper

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

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

  A Long Cup of Tea by Michael Ashby

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

The Busman’s Prayer by Anon

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

Death by Joe Brainard

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

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

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

Warning by Jenny Joseph

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

On a Tired Housewife by Anon

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

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

Untitled jisei by Moriya Sen’an

Death by Sean Hughes

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

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

I Didn’t Go To Church Today by Ogden Nash

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

Last Will and Testament by Will Scratchmann

One last note on funny funeral poems…

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

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

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The Rev. Al Sharpton Calls for Justice in Eulogy for Ohio Man Who Died Last Month in Police Custody

The Rev. Al Sharpton and family members of an Ohio man who died in police custody last month told mourners at his funeral that they and the community must fight to see that he gets justice

Pallbearers carry the casket of Frank Tyson out of Hear The Word Ministries church following funeral services Wednesday, May 8, 2024, in Canton, Ohio. Tyson, a 53-year-old Black man, died April 18 after he was handcuffed and left facedown on the floor of a social club while telling officers he couldn't breathe. (AP Photo)

The Rev. Al Sharpton and family members of an Ohio man who died in police custody told mourners at his funeral on Wednesday that they and the community must fight to see that he gets justice.

Sharpton gave the eulogy for Frank Tyson, a 53-year-old East Canton resident, during the service at the Hear The Word Ministries church in Canton. Tyson died April 18 after he was handcuffed and left facedown on the floor of a social club while telling officers he couldn't breathe.

“You can’t give us Frank back, but you can do justice for this family,” Sharpton said. “This is an assault on all us ... stand up for the Franks of this word, because if they can get away with what they did to Frank, they’ll do it to you.”

Tyson's longtime partner, Sabrina Jones, noted that Tyson had been in prison for many years and was released less than two weeks before he died. She and members of his family had worked over the years on efforts to exonerate Tyson, who had long maintained his innocence.

“We only had 13 days with him (after his release) before they took his life away,” Jones said during the service, struggling to keep her composure at times. "It's hard, this is hard. I want justice for Frank.”

Bodycam video released by police shows Tyson resisted while being handcuffed and said repeatedly, “They’re trying to kill me” and “Call the sheriff,” as he was taken to the floor.

Tyson, who was Black, was taken into custody shortly after a vehicle crash that had severed a utility pole. Police body-camera footage showed that after a passing motorist directed officers to the bar, a woman opened the door and said: “Please get him out of here, now.”

Police restrained Tyson — including with a knee on his back — and he immediately told officers he could not breathe. A recent Associated Press investigation found those words — “I can’t breathe” — had been disregarded in other cases of deaths in police custody.

Officers told Tyson he was fine, to calm down and to stop fighting as he was handcuffed facedown with his legs crossed on the carpeted floor. Police were joking with bystanders and leafing through Tyson’s wallet before realizing he was in a medical crisis.

Five minutes after the body-camera footage recorded Tyson saying “I can’t breathe,” one officer asked another if Tyson had calmed down. The other replied, “He might be out.”

The two Canton officers involved, who are white, have been placed on paid administrative leave.

Tyson was released from state prison on April 6 after serving 24 years on a kidnapping and theft case and was almost immediately declared a post-release control supervision violator for failing to report to a parole officer, according to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction.

The Ohio Attorney General’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation said in a statement last month that its probe will not determine if force was justified and that the prosecuting attorney or a grand jury will decide if charges related to the use of force are warranted.

Copyright 2024 The  Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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Ukraine war latest updates: Russia launches surprise advance on Ukraine - but why has Moscow opened up second front in war?

Russia has launched an attack in Kharkiv away from recent battlegrounds, Ukraine has said - as Volodymyr Zelenskyy insists his forces were "prepared" for the assault. Two civilians have been killed in the attack, a local governor has said.

Friday 10 May 2024 20:00, UK

• Putin's military launched an advance away from the frontline in the early hours of this morning
• Ukraine says its forces are fighting to repel the attack on the Kharkiv region
• Russian forces have advanced a kilometre, according to Ukrainian sources
• Analysis: Why has Russia opened up second front in war?
• Sky's Deborah Haynes witnesses terror in attacked town as evacuations under way
• Ukraine's president says forces were 'prepared' for assault
• Ed Conway : Russian oil still seeping into UK - the reasons why sanctions are not working
• Live reporting by Jess Sharp and (earlier)  Narbeh Minassian

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued an updated statement on the situation in Kharkiv. 

In a post on  Telegram , the Ukrainian president said Russian troops have tried to expand their operations. 

But he added that Ukraine understands the "scope of the occupier's forces". 

"We see his plan," he said. "Our soldiers, our artillery, our drones respond to the occupier." 

He also said Ukrainian forces were adding their "strength" along the state border and the entire frontline near Kharkiv. 

"We will invariably destroy the occupier in such a way as to thwart any Russian offensive intentions," the 46-year-old leader wrote. 

"Everything depends on the stability of our soldiers, and everyone who holds a position now protects the position of all of Ukraine.

"It is important that partners support our soldiers and Ukrainian stability with timely supplies. Really timely. The package that really helps is the weapons brought to Ukraine, not just the announcement of the package." 

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has thanked Joe Biden after a $400m military aid package was announced by the US. 

The Ukrainian president said the assistance will "help save civilian lives" and strengthen troops on the frontline. 

"The United States maintains its leadership role in supporting Ukraine and this has historic significance," he added. 

This is the third tranche of aid for Ukraine since Congress passed supplemental funding in late April after months of gridlock.

The package includes: 

• High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems and rockets for them
• Munitions for Patriot and National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems
• Anti-aircraft and anti-tank munitions
• An array of armoured vehicles, such as Bradley and Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles
• Coastal and riverine patrol boats
• Demolition munitions
• High-speed anti-radiation missiles
• Protective gear, spare parts and other weapons and equipment

The weapons are being sent through presidential drawdown authority, which pulls systems and munitions from existing US stockpiles so they can go quickly to the war front. 

By Deborah Haynes , security and defence editor, in Vovchansk

Terror and grief were the overwhelming emotions from dozens of mainly elderly men and women who fled the Ukrainian border town of Vovchansk after Russian forces attacked.

Gathered at an evacuation point just outside the town, they said it had been the fiercest fighting they had ever experienced since the full-scale invasion.

Sky News followed a pair of volunteer rescuers, who drove a white van into the tow to help residents evacuate.

Smoke hung over the road on the way – we were told all roads into Vovchansk were being targeted by Russian artillery, rockets and drones.

One of the attacks had ignited a fire in a forest that lined the road, sending clouds of smoke into the air.

The streets of the part of the town we entered were almost completely empty.

We pulled into a residential area of bungalows.

A group of five elderly men and women sat or stood on a bench on the side of the road, seemingly happy to stay put.

The rescue team pulled up outside an address where they had been told four residents wanted to be evacuated.

They knocked on the door, but no one replied. Instead, a petite, grey-haired woman who lives in the next door house pushed open her green gate and told the rescuers that her neighbours had already gone.

Distraught, Valentina, 74, had no plans to leave, but the rescuers managed to persuade her.

"Let's go, don’t stay here, it is dangerous," they said.

Suddenly there was a boom – it seemed to change her mind.

Gathering a few simple belongings, she was led out of her home and into the minibus.

The mayor said some 500 people from the town have been evacuated since the attack began, but he said the town’s population was 3,000, with many more yet to leave.

Evacuation operations are set to continue.

By Sean Bell , military analyst 

At 5am, the Russians launched a surprise attack on the Kharkiv region of northeastern Ukraine, killing two civilians and injuring at least five others. 

The Ukrainian border community of Vovchansk was one of the targets - this community is only 5km away from the Russian border, and the attack led to the evacuation of 3,000 residents. 

Russian forces are reported to have advanced around 1km, before Ukrainian reinforcements were deployed.

So why has Russia opened up a second front in the war?

There are probably two key reasons for this latest Russian attack.

First, the Russian border town of Belgorod is a logistics hub for Russian military activity, and is regularly targeted by artillery from Ukrainian territory.

President Putin has long promised to create a buffer zone to push Ukrainian forces out of artillery range, which would limit the attacks on this frontier town. 

Secondly, although most analysts believe Russia would struggle to seize Kharkiv, the attack does force Ukraine to spread its limited resources across a broader front, leaving it more vulnerable to further attacks.

Russian's priority still appears to be the Donbas - a primary objective of what it calls its special military operation. 

Russia's military are evidently exploiting the window of opportunity created by Ukraine's current shortage of weapons, and are reported to be preparing for a major summer offensive. 

Ukraine's strategy appears to be to trade territory for time, making Russia pay a high price for every metre of ground seized, pending the arrival of the West's next delivery of military aid.

But, momentum and initiative are vital commodities in war, and Russia has both at this crucial juncture.  Ukraine is on the back foot, and could face a very difficult next few weeks on the battlefield.

The UK's foreign secretary, Lord Cameron, said last week Ukraine has a right to use British-supplied weapons against targets inside Russia.

Referring to those comments, senior Russian security official Dmitry Medvedev warned the West against greenlighting Ukrainian attacks on its territory using Western-supplied weapons.

After what Moscow said were threats from France, Britain and the US, Russia said earlier this week it would practise the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons as part of a military exercise.

These exercises are to work out Russia's response to any attacks on the country using weapons supplied by the West, Mr Medvedev claims.

He said the Russian response would "be aimed not only at Kyiv" - and took personal aim at Lord Cameron.

"I remember this guy quite well. I worked with him when he became prime minister. An ordinary dull Brit. At that time, he was joyfully stupid and looked like a young devil who was revelling in his unexpectedly acquired position," he wrote on the Telegram messaging app, which has been translated.

"Under certain circumstances, the response [to such attacks] will be aimed not only at Kyiv," he added.

He added: "And not just with conventional explosives, but also with a special kind of arms."

As we have been reporting throughout the day, Russian forces gave started the first stage of an operation in Kharkiv. 

Fierce fighting has been taking place in parts of the northeastern region, and Ukrainian officials have claimed Russian troops have advanced by 1km. 

Leading US thinktank the Institute for the Study of War has said evidence indicates the initial Russian attacks have been carried out for reconnaissance and not as a major drive to seize Kharkiv city. 

It has also suggested five objectives Russia might be trying to achieve with the operation: 

• To thin out Ukrainian forces along the 600-mile frontline, and create opportunities in Donetsk in eastern Ukraine.
• Draw Ukraine forces towards Vovchansk in Kharkiv to facilitate Russia's efforts to seize Kupyansk - another city in Kharkiv. 
• Create a demilitarised or sanitary buffer zone in Ukraine.
• Instil panic in Ukraine.
• Set conditions for a larger future offensive on Kharkiv. 

The ISW added that Russia was unlikely to take control of Kharkiv city. 

Open source data suggests Moscow's forces have an insufficient number of troops in nearby areas to seize it, the thinktank added. 

"If the Russian command intended to seize Kharkiv city, then Russian forces would have likely also attacked to the west and northwest of Kharkiv city as well," it said. 

It also explained that Russia's use of its airspace for the Kharkiv attacks highlights the "urgent need" for the US to provide more long-range air defences to Ukraine. 

"Ukraine would be better able to defend Kharkiv oblast if Ukrainian air defenders could intercept Russian aircraft in Russian airspace before they drop their glide bombs," it added.

Although there is growing expectation that the initial tranche of F-16 fighter jets being donated to Ukraine could arrive as soon as early July (see our 3.50pm post), it is not clear when the other ingredients of this powerful air power capability will be in place by that time.

Providing a credible and effective Ukrainian combat air capability requires suitably trained and experienced pilots, groundcrew, weapons, defensive aids and radar.  

All these components need to be in place before the Ukrainian air force will be ready to go into battle with the Russian military. 

Once the F-16s are place, the challenge facing Ukraine will be when and where to use these valuable resources - and how to avoid them being destroyed before they can contribute to the Ukrainian defensive effort.

When the F-16s arrive, they will provide Ukraine with an invaluable - albeit scarce - resource. 

They could be used to support the frontline, but they will be very vulnerable in that dynamic and hostile air environment.

They could also be used to conduct strikes against key Russian military targets inside Russian territory, which would certainly force a change in Russian tactics.

Or, if Ukraine wanted to threaten Crimea, the F-16s could be used in a co-ordinated attack in support of a wider campaign.

Regardless, with Russia on the front-foot in the Donbas, Ukraine needs all the help it can to reverse Russian momentum on the battlefield.

If you're just joining us, here's a recap of the key developments so far today: 

• Volodymyr Zelesnkyy says fierce fighting is ongoing in the Kharkiv region as a Ukrainian official claims Russian troops have advanced 1km in their attempt to create a buffer zone;
• Civilians have been evacuated from the town of Vovchansk, in Kharkiv, where Russian shelling is said to be intense;
• In a separate overnight attack on Kharkiv, two civilians have been killed and another five injured, according to the region's governor;
• Ukraine says it expects to receive the first F-16 fighter jets this summer;
• Vladimir Putin's pick for prime minister was waved through parliament unopposed as he begins his new six-year term as president;
• Moscow's mayor says anti-aircraft units intercepted a drone over the south of the city early this morning.

Vladimir Putin's pick for prime minister has been confirmed, as expected, after the nomination was swiftly waved through parliament.

Today, Mr Putin proposed the reappointment of Mikhail Mishustin (see our 9.17am post), a technocrat who has helped him through the war in Ukraine and the economic challenges posed by the subsequent Western sanctions.

The Duma, the lower house of Russia's parliament, approved his nomination on the same day.

There is virtually no opposition in the Russian parliament, which has supported Mr Putin in all his decisions, including the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Deputies from the opposition Communist party abstained from voting.

The US is putting together a $400m (£320m) military aid package for Ukraine, an official has told the Reuters news agency.

Speaking anonymously, the official said the aid includes artillery, anti-tank munitions, armoured vehicles and small arms that can be used immediately on the battlefield.

The move suggests the US is returning to a regular pace of supplying weapons to Ukraine, following the passage of a $60bn bill .

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• Coping With Grief

Don't Want to Cry at a Funeral? Here's How to Deal

Updated 04/29/2022

Published 11/14/2019

Sam Tetrault, BA in English

Contributing writer

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

Crying is an emotional reaction that isn’t always easy to control. Crying at a funeral is a normal part of the process, especially if you were close to the deceased. However, there are a lot of times when it might not feel right to cry at a funeral. Perhaps you need to stay strong to support a family member, or you might be speaking at a funeral and need to keep your cool. 

Jump ahead to these sections:

How to speak at a funeral without crying, how to stop yourself from crying during the service or visitation, it’s okay to cry: how to embrace crying and your feelings.

No matter the situation, sometimes you just don’t want to cry at a funeral. Luckily, it’s possible to try to keep control of your emotions.

If you want to avoid the dreaded waterworks during a funeral ceremony, keep reading. And if you'd like some additional guidance through the entire process of losing a loved one, check out our post-loss checklist . 

If you’re speaking at a funeral, you probably want to present the best version of yourself. It’s not always easy to talk in front of others— and even more challenging if you’re trying to keep your emotions in check.

Follow these steps below if you’re worried about crying during a funeral speech. 

Practice makes perfect

The first step is to practice your speech. If you’re writing a eulogy or other memorial, practice saying it out loud to yourself or a trusted friend. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll be with the speech. 

It’s important to express your emotions while giving a speech. Yet, you don’t want these emotions to get in the way of your message. Practice really does make perfect in this situation. The more you say your speech, the less it will affect your emotions. 

Control your breathing

It’s normal to feel stage fright before you speak at a funeral. Emotions are already high. You don’t want to let your breath to get out of control as well. 

Focus on your breathing to get your movements back to a reasonable level. If you’re struggling to stay in control, count to 10. Give yourself time to relax your body before getting on stage to give your speech. 

This trick will help if you notice tears forming when you get on stage. To hold back the flow of crying, look up above the crowd.

First, this distracts you from the crying faces of loved ones. Seeing these sad faces in the crowd might trigger your tears. However, looking up also prevents tears that already formed from running down your face. 

Take your time

Finally, take your time. Your speech should come from the heart. Don’t feel pressured to rush through it, especially if you feel emotions welling up. Taking your time to read or recite your funeral speech slowly keeps your emotions in check. 

Share your final wishes, just in case.

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Aside from giving a speech, sometimes you want to prevent yourself from crying during the funeral service. You might feel that being emotionally stable is something your friends and family can rely on. Here are tips to stop yourself from crying during the ceremony.

Breathe evenly

Again, control your breathing. Breathing exercises are something you can do throughout the service and visitation. Instead of letting your breathing patterns get out of control, count to yourself.

If counting to ten isn’t enough, count to 20, 50, or even 100. It’s okay to let yourself focus on your breaths during the service. 

Blink rapidly

Another way to stop yourself from crying is to blink rapidly. This is a way to clear up any tears, but won’t just stop them from rolling down your face. You’ll also keep them from forming. 

If you’re unable to blink rapidly, try blinking slowly. If you open your eyes wide, you can cut off the flow of tears before they start. While this might feel weird at first, it’s a great tip to keep on hand. 

Pinch your nose

Your tears come from your tear ducts. Tears are stored near the corner of your eyes and the side of your nose. If you pinch the bridge of your nose, you can stop the production of tears. It’s best to do this when you feel the waterworks first coming, not after. 

Think happy thoughts

It’s hard to think happy thoughts when you’re at a funeral, especially if you were close to the deceased. However, taking a few moments to focus on something pleasant is a welcome distraction. 

Think of a happy day, person, or memory. Your goal here is to take yourself out of this sad moment. Giving yourself a short break is sometimes all you need to stop those tears in their tracks. 

Have you ever felt that lump in your throat when you felt tears coming? This lump is a normal bodily reaction. It’s actually driven by the muscles at the back of your throat opening up to help you breathe—and a physical process that’s out of your control. 

However, to soothe this feeling and distract yourself, sip water slowly. Taking sips gets rid of that dreaded lump in your throat feeling. It’s also a way to direct your bodily response away from crying. 

If you’re at a funeral or wake, looking away from the casket or the speaker brings you back into the present. Focus on something mundane, like a wall or an ordinary object. This short reprieve might be all you need to help you calm down. 

While it’s polite to focus on an item close to the speaker, you can also focus on something close by. Your handbag, jewelry, clothing, or even someone else nearby can all be good options to prevent crying. 

Know what to expect

Finally, knowing what to expect at a funeral can ease your feelings as well. If it’s your first funeral or you’re unfamiliar with specific traditions, then learn what to expect. Having an idea of what will be happening, whether there will be an open casket, and so on, is the best way to prepare yourself. 

How do you know what to expect? Research funeral customs, cultural practices, and religious traditions. Aside from this, you can also ask the family hosting the funeral what the service will be like. There is usually a service program for the funeral process. 

Finally, remind yourself that crying at a funeral is a natural part of the grieving process. You’re allowed to show your emotions, even if it feels awkward at first. In fact, some cultures include crying as part of the wake etiquette . Crying for the deceased is often thought of as a sign of respect to the person and the family. If you need help embracing your feelings, try these steps. 

Bring tissues or a handkerchief

Crying isn’t always pretty. It’s entirely okay, and you shouldn’t feel worried about what you look like when you’re feeling a strong emotion. However, bringing tissues or a handkerchief helps you feel more in control of your appearance when you’re struggling with tears. 

Find your support

You don’t need to suffer in silence. Funerals are a chance to lean on each other and come closer together. If you’re struggling to feel okay crying at a funeral, surround yourself with those you trust. A healthy support group makes these emotions easier to process. 

Remind yourself of the grieving process

Finally, remember that crying is a natural part of the grieving process. When we cry, we express how we feel physically. Yes, it can feel uncomfortable at times, but it’s nothing to be ashamed of. 

Every person expresses grief differently. Even if you don’t see others crying at a funeral, that doesn’t mean they aren’t also grieving. The most significant part of the grieving process is time. If you need to let a few (or several) tears out during the funeral, don’t feel down on yourself. 

In fact, crying can be useful. According to psychology , it can both lower your stress and elevate your mood. The act of crying itself lowers your manganese levels, actually helping you feel better. So, if you let yourself express your feelings freely can be a way to overcome sadness and grief. This is nothing to be ashamed of. 

Prepare for Your Next Funeral

Funerals are emotional affairs. Whether you’ll be attending a funeral or speaking at one, it’s common to wish for more control over your emotions. We all know the stereotype of the overly emotional family member bawling during a funeral. In reality, crying during a funeral is a reasonable way to grieve a loved one. 

However, if you’re trying to keep yourself from crying, you do have steps you can take. From sipping water to control your breathing, these small actions prevent tears from flowing freely. If you do prevent those waterworks, make sure you have a way to express any sadness or grief that might be a result of the passing of a loved one. 

These feelings shouldn’t be bottled up inside. Finding a healthy way to express your emotions, whether you do so publicly or privately, is a big part of attending a funeral. 

• Borchard, Therese J. “7 Good Reasons to Cry Your Eyes Out.” Psych Central, 8 July 2018. Psychcentral.com .

Categories:

• Funeral Etiquette

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