Eulogy template: Need to write an eulogy? Here's how
Set the tone with a short introduction
Writing an eulogy can feel like a daunting task, especially when you are grieving and emotions are raw. It can be hard to know where to begin to honour someone’s life and do their memory justice. While you’ll likely have many anecdotes and stories whirling around your head, getting them on paper can be tricky.
There can be a lot of pressure in writing an eulogy, but the important thing to remember is that it does not have to be overly long or poetic. The important thing is that it’s heartfelt, honest and personal. If you are planning to give an eulogy at a loved one’s funeral, here is a simple guide to help you through the process.
Begin by introducing yourself and your relationship to the person who has died. If a friend, perhaps include how you met to help the audience understand why you’re delivering the eulogy.
For example, Good morning, everyone. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Emma, and I had the privilege of being Mary’s granddaughter.
Remember to keep it simple and warm
Share some history and key milestones and give a brief overview of your loved one’s life to help paint a picture of who they were.
You may want to include:
- Where they were born
- Where they grew up
- Family details such as parents and siblings
- Work life and other achievements
- Children, spouse and grandchildren
For example, Mary was born in Reading in 1942; she was the eldest of three children and doted on by her loving parents, John and Margaret.
In 1950, the family relocated to Colchester, where Mary finished her schooling and met her husband, Jack. Mary and Jack married in 1960 and welcomed their first child, Mark, in 1962, followed by their daughter Sarah in 1965.
Mary was a devoted mother and worked as a teacher in the local primary school. She was a proud grandmother to four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Add personal memories
Share stories that show the person’s character and the strength of your bond. Choose two or three moments that stand out and bring lightness to the eulogy.
For example, one of my fondest memories of my Nan was when I was little and she would let me ‘help’ make dinner. I used to get it all wrong and make a mess, but Nan would just laugh and say, “We’ll make the grandad’s one.”
Reflect on how they touched others’ lives
Talk about the impact they had on others and the difference they made to people to show the legacy they’ll leave behind.
For example, Nan absolutely loved her teaching days, and nothing gave her more pleasure than past students coming up to her in the supermarket, long after she retired, to tell her she was their favourite teacher and had taught them so much.
Finish with a heartfelt goodbye
Close the eulogy with a final thought or goodbye for your loved one. You may want to read a poem or say a simple goodbye.
For example, thank you, Nan, for every laugh, every lesson and every act of kindness you showed to everyone who knew you. We will miss you deeply, but you will be remembered every day.
Planning goodbyes and celebrating lives
If you are arranging a loved one’s funeral or wish to plan your own celebration of life, please head over to Fiesta Farewell for inspiration, support and guides and a directory of suppliers.
