Eulogies and Obituaries

How to Write and Deliver a Meaningful Eulogy

Giving a eulogy can feel overwhelming, even for the most confident speakers, but it doesn’t have to be. Summarizing a life in just a few minutes—while balancing both heartfelt and lighthearted moments—may seem challenging, but a well-prepared eulogy can be a beautiful way to honor and remember your loved one. It is both a therapeutic tool for processing grief and a profound honor. Here are some helpful tips to craft and deliver a heartfelt, memorable eulogy.

1. Gather Information

Speak with family members, close friends, and colleagues to gather meaningful details. Consider including:

• Family and close relationships
• Career and education
• Hobbies, passions, or special interests
• Places they lived or traveled
• Memorable accomplishments or life events

2. Organize Your Thoughts

Outline the key points you want to cover. Structuring your eulogy will help you tell a meaningful story that flows naturally.

3. Write it Down

Unlike a toast or casual speech, a eulogy should be written out to ensure clarity and completeness. Print your speech in a large, easy-to-read font, or if handwritten, leave extra space between lines. Keeping it concise is best, especially if other speakers are also paying tribute.

4. Review and Revise

Your first draft won’t be your last. Step away from it for a while, then revisit it with fresh eyes to refine your message.

5. Practice, Practice, Practice

Read your eulogy multiple times to become comfortable with it. Practice in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend or family member for feedback. Familiarity will help you deliver it smoothly and naturally.

6. Use Humor Thoughtfully

A eulogy isn’t a roast, but humor can bring warmth and comfort. Share a lighthearted memory that reflects your loved one’s personality—just keep it appropriate for all ages. Well-placed laughter can help ease sorrow and bring cherished memories to life.

7. Embrace Emotion

It’s natural to feel emotional while speaking. If you’re concerned about becoming overwhelmed, consider having a backup person ready to step in. Share a copy of your eulogy with them in advance just in case.

8. Be Prepared

Have a glass of water nearby, and keep tissues handy.

With preparation and heart, your eulogy will be a touching tribute that celebrates your loved one’s life and legacy.

How to Write an Obituary

Writing an obituary can be an emotional and challenging task. To begin, gather details from family and friends about the deceased’s life, childhood, education, career, hobbies, and interests. Additionally, contact the funeral home to confirm service details, including the date, time, and location of any funeral or memorial events.

Using the template below can help simplify the process, ensuring a well-structured obituary that includes all the necessary information.

Replace all items in brackets with the appropriate information

[FULL NAME], [AGE], of [CITY, STATE], passed away on [DATE OF DEATH] in [LOCATION].

A funeral service will be held at [LOCATION] on [DATE] at [TIME], officiated by [CLERGY NAME, if applicable]. Burial will follow at [CEMETERY NAME, LOCATION]. Visitation will take place at [LOCATION] on [DATE] at [TIME]. [FUNERAL HOME NAME] is handling the arrangements.

[NAME] was born in [PLACE OF BIRTH] to [PARENTS’ NAMES] on [DATE OF BIRTH]. He/she graduated from [HIGH SCHOOL NAME] in [YEAR] and later earned a [DEGREE TYPE] from [COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY NAME]. He/she worked as a [JOB TITLE] for [COMPANY NAME] for [NUMBER] years. He/she enjoyed [HOBBIES/INTERESTS] and was involved in [CHARITIES/COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS].

[NAME] is survived by [RELATION], [NAME] of [CITY], as well as (list all surviving family members, such as spouse, children, siblings, parents, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews). He/she is preceded in death by [RELATION], [NAME] (list predeceased loved ones such as spouse, parents, children, or siblings).

Memorial donations may be made to [ORGANIZATION NAME] at [MAILING ADDRESS]. The family would like to extend their gratitude to [INDIVIDUAL/ORGANIZATION] for their support. [FINAL WORDS, if desired].

Additional Notes

Most newspapers charge by the word, so this template helps include essential details in a concise format. However, feel free to adjust and personalize the wording to best reflect your loved one’s life, personality, and legacy.