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Eulogies have the power to take you back to a special moment in time, to flood your mind with memories, and remind you of the wonderful qualities of the person who’s passed. So when it comes to writing one, it can feel like a daunting task.
But we’ve been supporting families saying farewell to their lost loved ones for decades, and we’re here to guide you through it. In this guide, we explain the essential elements of crafting a eulogy that captures the essence of your loved one.
Mareena Purslowe Funeral Specialist lighting candles
What is a eulogy?
A eulogy is more than just a heartfelt speech given at a memorial service or funeral. It is a powerful, emotional tribute that honours someone’s life.
A eulogy allows you to share cherished memories and meaningful stories that capture the spirit of your loved one and the impact they had on others. It’s an opportunity to celebrate their life while providing comfort to those who are grieving.
Holding a cup of tea
History of eulogies
Throughout history, eulogies have played a role in honouring the lives of individuals who have passed away. The practice dates back to early civilisations, such as ancient Greece and Rome. In these cultures, eulogies were a way to pay homage to the deceased, reflecting on their achievements and impact on society. Over time, eulogies have been adopted by various cultural and religious groups, and now hold a significant place in most funerals and memorial services.
Mareena Purslowe Funeral Specialist comforting family
How to write a eulogy
Capturing someone’s life in a single speech can feel like an impossible task. But it doesn't have to be. Our experienced women Funeral Specialists have spent years helping people craft a moving, meaningful eulogy. We’ve compiled some of our best advice to help you write a meaningful eulogy.
Common questions about eulogies
How long should a eulogy be?
This is up to you. The length of a eulogy might depend on your cultural customs, religious practices, and the unique circumstances of your loved one’s memorial. Generally, a eulogy is no longer than 10 minutes, which is between 600-1000 words.
What should I include in a eulogy?
Your loved one’s eulogy is an opportunity to paint a vivid picture of who they were. It’s not necessary to include every detail of their life, but it’s important to include the key elements of their journey, such as:
- Their full name, including any nicknames they had
- Birth date and place, and the names of their partner, children, parents and siblings
- Places they lived, schools they attended, or the jobs they held
- Major milestones, such as their wedding or a memorable holiday
- Your relationship to them and what they meant to you.
Should I include personal achievements in a eulogy?
You may wish to highlight your loved one’s significant accomplishments in their eulogy. These could include career milestones, educational accomplishments, artistic pursuits, or charitable contributions.
How do I start and end a eulogy?
When beginning a eulogy, set the tone with a thoughtful and respectful opening that acknowledges the loss. You may start with a heartfelt quote, a personal anecdote, or a reflection on their unique qualities.
As you reach the end of the eulogy, you might offer words of comfort to grieving family and friends. You can conclude with a meaningful quote, a final memory, or a heartfelt message of love and remembrance.
Mareena Purslowe Funeral specialist hugging family
We’re here to help
Delivering a eulogy is a profound opportunity to honour and remember a loved one who has passed away. If you’d like some support writing a eulogy, your Funeral Specialist can help. They can share some tips and examples to help you get started.