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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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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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77 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.

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.

Start a memorial website

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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

Create a space to remember someone

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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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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• Types of Public Speaking →

The Ultimate Guide to Crafting Beautiful a Eulogy or Memorial Speech

Are you tasked with the daunting challenge of delivering a eulogy for a loved one and not sure where to start? A eulogy is an important tribute that honors the life and memory of someone dear who has passed away.

In this blog post, we’ll offer expert guidance on how to craft heartfelt remembrance speeches that truly celebrate your loved one’s life. Ready to navigate through this difficult time with grace? Keep reading.

Key Takeaways

• Crafting a heartfelt eulogy involves gathering memories, highlighting unique characteristics, incorporating anecdotes, and keeping the speech concise and engaging.
• Personalizing a eulogy is essential for honoring a loved one’s memory by capturing their spirit through vivid verbal imagery, incorporating humor if appropriate, and respecting cultural or religious traditions.
• Overcoming nervousness when delivering a eulogy can be achieved through practice, embracing emotions during the speech, and using expressive body language. Choosing the right words involves reflecting on the deceased person’s life and qualities, avoiding clichés, and striking a balance between sincerity and levity if appropriate.
• Incorporating humor in eulogies provides comic relief while sharing cherished memories helps celebrate the life of the deceased. Humor creates a lighthearted atmosphere that engages the audience while sharing memories evokes emotions and creates meaningful connections.
• Dos of delivering a eulogy: personalize your speech with heartfelt memories, practice beforehand to overcome nervousness, choose words carefully to convey love and admiration without speaking negatively about the person being honored.

How to Deliver a Heartfelt Eulogy

In order to deliver a heartfelt eulogy, it is essential to focus on writing a memorial speech that is personal and meaningful to both the deceased individual and the mourners in attendance.

Tips for writing a memorial speech

Crafting a heartfelt eulogy or memorial speech requires genuine emotional investment. Begin the process by gathering memories from various sources, helping to paint a more comprehensive picture of your deceased loved one’s life.

Highlight their unique characteristics and the impact they had on those around them in your personal remembrance narrative. Incorporate anecdotes for authenticity, making sure to prioritize stories that spread positivity and reflect happiness.

It’s crucial not to let this bereavement speech get overly lengthy; keep it concise and engaging instead. An effective technique is opening with an impactful quote relevant to the departed soul or a light-hearted story about them – it aids in capturing attention right off the bat.

Moreover, consider having someone you trust review your commemorative tribute before delivery; their feedback can prove invaluable for fine-tuning content and ensuring emotional resonance within listeners during the actual memorial service.

The importance of personalizing a eulogy

Crafting a personalized eulogy is an essential part of paying tribute to a loved one. It goes beyond just recounting the deceased’s accomplishments and interests; it captures the person’s spirit in a way no generic words can.

A highly personalized speech provides comfort to those mourning as they feel their beloved individual truly acknowledged and remembered for who they really were, not simply what they achieved or did.

Honor your loved one by painting vivid verbal imagery of their personality, traits, anecdotes, passions – everything that made them unique. Incorporating humorous elements can also be impactful if it aligns well with the character of the departed soul.

The best form of flattery isn’t imitation; let their quirks shine through your narration! After all, laughter at a funeral doesn’t mean loss is taken lightly—it is rather celebrating life lived fully and joyously.

Incorporating religious or cultural traditions

Crafting a heartfelt eulogy often involves reflecting the life, values, and personality of the deceased. One powerful way to add depth and context is by incorporating  religious or cultural traditions  in your tribute.

Every culture has unique rites and customs associated with grief, mourning, death perception – weaving these elements into your speech aligns it not only with the character of the departed but also provides a comforting familiarity for those who share them.

If you’re writing about someone whose faith played an integral role in their life story, consider focusing on traditional mourning customs specific to that religion as part of your eulogy delivery.

Similarly, cultural rituals for death can be seamlessly integrated into funeral speeches making them more authentic and poignant. Not only will this show respect for cherished beliefs they held but it also underscores how these traditions shaped them as individuals.

As you pen down personal stories in eulogies or delve deeper into learning about funeral traditions relevant to your loved one’s background, remember that capturing their essence truthfully demands empathy – just like tailoring inspirational eulogy examples based on diverse cultures or faiths does.

Overcoming Nervousness and Choosing the Right Words

Overcoming nervousness when delivering a eulogy can be achieved by practicing beforehand and taking deep breaths to calm the nerves. Choosing the right words for a eulogy involves reflecting on the deceased person’s life, their qualities, and the impact they had on others.

Tips for overcoming nervousness when delivering a eulogy

Speaking at a funeral can be both rewarding and scary, as many people feel nervousness when delivering a eulogy. The good news is that there are tips and tricks available to help individuals overcome this anxiety.

One important tip is to remember that it’s okay to feel emotional during the speech – crying at a funeral is normal and even expected. Another helpful technique is to practice the eulogy several times beforehand, familiarizing yourself with the content and allowing for easier delivery on the day of the service.

Additionally, incorporating expressive body language can make your words more authentic and heartfelt. By following these techniques, you can confidently deliver a touching tribute that honors your loved one’s memory.

How to choose the right words for a eulogy

Choosing the right words for a eulogy is crucial to capturing the essence of your loved one and delivering a heartfelt speech. Start by reflecting on their unique qualities, accomplishments, and cherished memories you shared together.

Use descriptive language that paints a vivid picture of their life, emphasizing their positive attributes and impact on others. Incorporate meaningful quotes, poems, or religious passages that resonate with their beliefs or values.

When selecting words for a eulogy, it’s important to strike a balance between honoring the person’s memory while also providing comfort to those in mourning. Avoid clichés or generic phrases; instead, opt for authentic anecdotes and personal stories that showcase their character and leave lasting impressions on the audience.

Additionally, consider the preferences of family members and respect any cultural or religious traditions when choosing your words. Pay attention to tone: strike a chord between sincerity and levity if appropriate – incorporating humor can provide moments of respite amidst grief.

Remember that every word spoken has an impact; take time to craft each sentence carefully so it carries emotional weight. Keep sentences concise yet powerful to maintain clarity as you deliver your eulogy.

The Role of Humor and Sharing Memories

4. Incorporate humor to provide some comic relief for mourners and share cherished memories to celebrate the life of the deceased.

The benefits of incorporating humor in eulogies

Incorporating humor into eulogies can provide numerous benefits for both the speaker and the audience. Humor has a unique ability to shift the focus from sadness or loss to funny memories, stories, or anecdotes.

By injecting laughter into a memorial speech, public speakers can create a more lighthearted atmosphere that helps initiate communication and build rapport with the listeners. Research shows that humor is associated with improved memory, increased interest, higher energy levels, and reduced negative emotions.

When used thoughtfully and respectfully, humor in eulogies can balance out the heaviness of grief while honoring the deceased in a positive and memorable way. It allows people to cope with their sorrow by bringing back fond memories and celebrating the life of their loved one through laughter.

The importance of sharing memories in a eulogy

A eulogy is not just about saying goodbye, it’s about preserving the memories and celebrating the life of a loved one who has passed away. When  delivering a heartfelt eulogy , sharing memories becomes crucial as it helps paint a vivid picture of who the person was and what made them special.

By sharing stories and experiences, we give others an opportunity to remember and honor their legacy. A well-written eulogy should capture the essence of the person, evoking emotions and creating meaningful connections with the audience .

So whether it’s recounting funny anecdotes or heartwarming moments, remember that sharing memories is an essential part of crafting a memorable tribute.

Dos and Don’ts of Delivering a Eulogy

In delivering a eulogy, it is important to remember the dos and don’ts. Do personalize your speech and share heartfelt memories that reflect the unique qualities of the deceased. Don’t use this opportunity to air grievances or speak negatively about the person.

Keep in mind that humor can be appropriate, but make sure it is respectful and relevant to their life. Also, do practice beforehand to overcome nervousness and choose your words carefully to convey love and admiration for the person being honored.

Key dos and don’ts to keep in mind when delivering a eulogy

When delivering a eulogy, there are important dos and don’ts to keep in mind. Firstly, do take the time to prepare and practice your speech beforehand. This will help you feel more confident and ensure that your words flow smoothly during the delivery.

Secondly, do personalize your eulogy by including specific anecdotes and memories of the deceased. Sharing personal stories not only adds depth and authenticity but also helps bring the person being eulogized to life in the minds of those listening.

Additionally, do express genuine emotions and feelings in your speech. It is okay to let yourself feel sadness or grief as it shows your connection with the departed soul. On the other hand, when delivering a eulogy, it’s crucial not to make it about yourself; instead, focus on honoring and remembering the deceased individual.

In conclusion, delivering a heartfelt eulogy is an important and meaningful way to honor the life of a loved one. By personalizing your speech, overcoming nervousness, incorporating humor and sharing memories, you can create a memorable tribute that celebrates their unique life.

Remember the dos and don’ts of delivering a eulogy and always aim to create a meaningful and uplifting experience for those in attendance. Through your words, you can provide comfort and healing during this difficult time while creating lasting memories of the person who has passed away.

1. What is a eulogy and when is it typically delivered?

A eulogy is a speech or tribute given to honor and remember the life of someone who has passed away. It’s typically delivered during a funeral service, memorial service, or celebration of life ceremony.

2. How long should a eulogy be?

The length of a eulogy can vary depending on personal preference and the nature of the service. Generally, it’s recommended to keep it between 5 to 10 minutes in order to maintain audience engagement and respect for other speakers or activities during the event.

3. Can I include humor in a eulogy?

Including humor in a eulogy can be appropriate if it reflects the personality and spirit of the deceased. However, it’s important to exercise sensitivity and judgement while considering the emotional state of grieving family members and friends.

4. How do I start writing a eulogy?

To start writing a eulogy, take some time to reflect on your relationship with the deceased person and gather memories that showcase their character traits, accomplishments, memorable moments, and impacts on others’ lives. You can also consider incorporating stories shared by loved ones. Organize these thoughts into an outline before putting them into written form for easier structuring later on.

Ace the Presentation

Eulogy Guide: How to Write and Give a Heartfelt Funeral Speech (with 4 Eulogy examples)

Eulogy definition.

According to the dictionary a eulogy is simply a formal expression of praise for the deceased. It is a way of saying good bye while telling some of the most vivid memories and deeds of the deceased, as well as what he/she meant to the speaker or those in attendance.

Death can come at any time and because of the trauma of that circumstances and the time constraints which is placed on the remaining loved ones, this is placing a real burden on the person who has been selected to make a speech at that funeral service. Nevertheless, one owes it to the person who has died to ensure that everything is well organized and memorable.

One also has to consider the mourning family who would only want to have the very best for their lost one. This is why it will require a substantial amount of careful consideration when it comes to the writing of the eulogy.

It has to give praise where praise is due but it also has to provide attendees with an adequate version of all the accomplishments of the person who has passed away. 

Before we move on to the outline different tips and pieces of advise on how to make and deliver a heartfelt eulogy, I’d like to emphasize that this will be the 14th in a series of posts on several types of speech that one has to deliver at some point or another in life. Please find the link below;

13 Different Types of Speech (How and When to Deliver them and get Desired Results)

Eulogy Outline Guide

A eulogy should never be confused with an obituary. An obituary is the death notice which appears in newspapers which is providing the essential and basic facts regarding the passing away of a person. However, and eulogy provides a loved one with the opportunity to elaborate somewhat about everything which the deceased person has been and how they have conducted themselves in various circumstances.

Even though there is no formal structure when it comes to the writing of a eulogy it can still be helpful to follow certain simple guidelines. One of the most effective ways is to approach this eulogy just like you would approach a letter which is written to an actual person. This can make the writing process a lot simpler and easier.

It is very important to keep the whole process personal and this is also why the letter-writing approach can help with the preparation of an interesting eulogy.

An easy way to keep that personal touch is to look through old photo albums or read old communications from the deceased. You could also visit the Facebook page of the deceased person and have a look at their social media profiles. This is a very effective way to remind yourself of many things which have happened over the years.

Alternatively, you can pay a visit to the place of precedence of the deceased. This can also help to bring back old memories. It is best to write everything in chronological order because this can really help to better organize your thinking process and therefore the speech delivery will be more effective.

Always remember that every person wants to feel that they have made a meaningful contribution while they have been living. This is why we should attempt to point out all those things which the deceased has done to impact people’s lives and to contribute in their profession and in society. This is an excellent way to honor the memory of the deceased person.

Eulogy Writing Guide

Eulogies originated in ancient Greece and through the millennia this practice has remained popular. It should be noted, however, that it is not supported by all religions and cultures.

Basically, a eulogy is simply a way of saying goodbye to a person who has passed away. It provides a person with an opportunity to express feelings, thoughts and experiences that will show respect and honor to the deceased person.

There is no rigid blueprint when it comes to the writing of eulogies. With every new event, one has to look at the different circumstances and also the person for whom that eulogy is intended.

In some cases, it might be necessary to present a formal speech that will touch on the history, achievements and professional career of the person who is passed away.

Alternatively, one can use a more personal approach where interesting stories and touching memories are shared. It should be noted that either of the two can be used but it might also be possible to use a combination of these two approaches depending on the situation as it is unveiled.

For some people, the writing of a eulogy can seem like a daunting task but many who has come through that process has found that it actually helps with the healing process.

Eulogy Etiquette Guide

Many people have completed excellent eulogies by simply communicating memories and ideas from their hearts and they have continued to express all those things which has been meaningful to them personally.

Success is also more easily achievable when you request the inputs from many different people. These people might remember things which you might have forgotten or might not have been personally involved in.

Keep your eyes open as you walk through the residence of the deceased and pay particular attention to photographs and other things of interest that can provide interesting material which can be used in the eulogy.

In many cases, the gardens of deceased persons can also be a treasure house of information which can provide valuable source material which can be used when writing the eulogy. Never make the mistake of disregarding the value of other relatives and friends who might have had interesting experiences with the deceased.

As far as eulogy etiquette is concerned it is not all that different from good old fashion morals and good manners and behaving properly. It should be noted that funerals have their own particular set of etiquette rules. There are many things that might be acceptable in normal life which can be considered as inappropriate when it comes to funerals.

One way to show respect for the deceased and their loved ones is to turn off all cell phones. Your business is never more important than what is taking place at that funerals service.

When someone passes away it is important to carefully consider whether you should attend or not. If there were known issues between you and the deceased, then you may offend family members and friends when you attend that funeral. Furthermore, being punctual is important because it shows respect for the deceased.

Lastly, the emotions of attendees should be kept in check so that it never diverts attention from the family of the deceased.

Eulogy Speech Delivery Guide and Examples

Keep Time: While writing that eulogy it is important to aim for something which will consume between three and five minutes but never more than ten because then you start to stretch the attention span of people attending.

Chronological Order of Events/Memories: Start with the basics such as biographical information relating to the deceased such as dates and places. Most of this information can be obtained from family and friends. It is important to write everything down in chronological order and it is important to focus on memories that are able to reveal the character of the person who has passed away.

Meaningful Ending: It is always a good thing when the eulogy is concluded to let people know what the deceased has personally meant to you and your family.

One example of how you can end your eulogy speech is to say that…

‘you are gathered together to celebrate the life of John Watson. You can also introduce himself by saying that you are Peter Smith and that you are the cousin of John Watson who was known by everyone as Johnny. You can then say that John was a truly incredible person who was well-loved by friends, family, and associates. He was a solid and a very good friend and also a hard worker who has contributed extensively in his professional endeavors. You can then elaborate on some of the specific things for which this person was so much appreciated.’

Example of a Eulogy for a father

When the deceased person is the father of the person presenting the eulogy then it may be meaningful to mention all of the advice which has been provided by that father to his children.

This might include advice regarding parenthood or dealing with the challenges experienced in life. It can also be advice on how to keep a marriage happy or on how to provide better for the family.

Share a little about who exactly that father was and how little he expected from those around him while he gave so much in return.

The speaker can also say that although live has been busy and pressurized the critical bond between father and son has always been healthy and strong. Also share some of the personal traits of the deceased person such as their ability to listen and their patience. 

Example of a Eulogy for a friend

Likewise, when that eulogy concerns a friend examples relating to the relationship between those friends have to be shared in order to illustrate how that friend has distinguished himself and how he has made himself meaningful and special to everyone with whom he has come into contact.

Under certain circumstances, it may be acceptable to use humor in that eulogy as long as it is ensured that no offense is given to anyone present. The use of such humor must always remind those in attendance of how special the person has been and why they will continue to b remembered so fondly by everyone remaining behind.

Example of a Eulogy for a Mother

There can be no doubt that when your family has to say goodbye to a mother who has passed away, then this can be one of the most difficult things for any family to do.

The writing of a eulogy for a mother is something which can come easier and more naturally to most people because there is so much personal information to share and therefore the writing of that eulogy can flow more naturally, is often longer and also completed quicker.

For most people, there is a lot that can be said such as how vibrant and loving the mother was. A person can share how easily she connected to people and how she had the ability to put people at ease.

That eulogy can also share how that mother dealt with the challenges of old age in a courageous and very brave manner. There were countless times when she was available to assist the children with all of the many challenges which they were facing as they go through life. Even when those situations seemed impossible she always had a word of wisdom which was able to give the person a fresh perspective relating to that problem.

One can also share how the mother divided her attention equally between the many children and a husband ensuring that no one is ever neglected. Despite her own difficulties and numerous challenges, she never turned anyone away. She never complained even when she had to do things that were difficult and challenging.

She always had a kind word for new acquaintances even those which were complete strangers. She was always ready to receive those strangers and to provide them with a high standard of hospitality and friendship.

Example of a Eulogy for a GrandMother

Grandmothers are also ranking very high on the list of people who have to be greeted for the very last time. These wonderful old ladies have been placed in our lives in order to help us to better understand our place in the universe.

Very often, they established themselves as one of the most vital parts in that personal and individual universe. There is so much which can be said about a beloved grandmother.

One can comment about the wisdom of that grandmother and some of the advice which she has dispensed. One can also share how that advice has been implemented and how it has simplified life for the one to whom it was given.

A Grandmother might not always be right but everything she has done was always done for the right reasons desiring only the very best outcome for everyone who approaches her for advice.

Grandmothers are often very closely involved in the lives of those around them and therefore there is endless pieces of information which can be shared in that eulogy.

Parting with a loved one is never easy. Knowing that the person is gone forever can be very traumatic especially in the case of a close family member or close friend.

The eulogy is going to be one of the last meaningful thing you will ever be able to do for your departed loved one and this is why every effort has to be made to make it super special. Just remember to keep it real and totally natural and ensure that everything in that eulogy is always focusing on the deceased and no one else.

Even when you share memories of how the deceased has interacted with others you must ensure that the deceased always have the limelight and no one else.

If you had tried your best and the eulogy still does not seem worthy of your loved one, then it is probably best to seek professional help from someone such as your minister.

However, there is also a lot of advice available online and you can even make use of freelance eulogy writers who can provide you with a professionally written eulogy for a relatively small fee. Browse some of these sites for excellent advice on all things relating to eulogies. 

READ MORE ABOUT TYPES OF SPEECH

Part I. 8 Persuasive Speech Techniques & Topics

Part II . 9 Tips for Writing and Amazing Informative Speech and 120+ Topic Ideas

Part III. 5 Quick Tips on how to Give an Effective Motivational Speech

Part IV. 15 Demonstration Speech Ideas and Techniques

Part V. How to Give an Effective Special Occasion Speech?

Part VI. 6 Key Tips for a Memorable Entertaining Speech + Topics and Ideas

Part VII. Explanatory Speech: 7 Key Tips to Help You Deliver an Effective Speech

Part VIII. 5-Step Strategy for an Effective Debate and Speech Delivery

Part IX. 7 Oratory Secrets: How to Deliver Effective Oratorical Speeches

Part X. Public Speaking Contests: 7 Ways to Nail at Forensic Speech Competitions

Part XI. 80+ Impromptu Speech Topics & 7 Ways to Nail One

Part XII. 13 Ways to Effectively Deliver Pitching Presentations

Part XIII. Farewell Speech – An 8-step guide to help you deliver a Memorable one

Part XIV. Eulogy Guide: How to Give a Heartfelt Funeral Speech (with 4 Eulogy examples)

REFERENCES & FURTHER READING

https://www.write-out-loud.com/free-sample-eulogies.html

How to Write a Eulogy and Speak Like a Pro

Preparing a Eulogy: A Step-By-Step Guide

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Sample eulogy 

 - 2 funeral speeches to help you write.

By:  Susan Dugdale  | Last updated: 12-15-2021

Reading a sample eulogy can really help when you're facing the task of preparing a funeral speech for someone you love.

I understand.

The tyranny of a blank sheet paper and a numbed mind yoked together by the desire to 'get it right' is the perfect recipe for confusion. You start - you stop. You write - then you cross out what you've written.  I've been there too.

It's my hope that the eulogy samples here will step you over the threshold of 'shall I say this, or shall I say that' and let you begin.

You'll see that there are no definitive right or wrong ways to honor a life. Yes, there are guidelines or suggestions about  how to write a eulogy * ,  what to put in and what to leave out, but ultimately, the choice is yours.

* If you want to see the suggestions I put together after getting through the anxiety of indecision, click the link. I've also added a free printable eulogy planning template to that page because I know how time consuming and ghastly struggling to write can be!  

These funeral speeches were written for an elderly neighbor and my sister. You are most welcome to use them as spring-boards for the speech you need to write.

Although they are very different in style, both are personal tributes marking characteristics I valued and loved.

Sample Eulogy One: Eulogy for Malcolm

Background notes:.

Malcolm and his wife, Margaret 'retired' into our neighborhood. Both were extremely quiet people who spent most of their time making their house and garden beautiful.

Malcolm was a little man physically but large in generosity. He had been a hard working builder, the ultimate 'do-it-yourself'  guy. Over the years he transformed their little patch and we spent many happy times swapping gardening hints and plant cuttings.

Malcolm's service respected his wishes. It was simple and non-religious.

The text of the eulogy I wrote for Malcolm

We heard Malcolm before we met him. And that was an irony as we later found out.

He and Margaret had scarcely moved into our street before the concrete mixer started growling. It rumbled and roared for weeks on end as Malcolm transformed his back yard into what would become a showcase for his flowers and vegetables.

Our cat EVEREADY engineered the introduction bringing us together. She was small, black, full of energy, had at least nine lives, we thought, and was ever-ready for a feed or a cuddle.

During that time there was no-one at home through the day and EVEREADY roamed. She inevitably found Malcolm and Margaret. It was true love. She had a second home and was utterly spoiled. There were special treats of milk and more. They called her ‘our little girl’ and I got regular updates of her daily adventures.

When she became ill, and it was apparent she'd run out of lives, it was Malcolm and Margaret who accompanied me to the vet for her final visit.

Aside from loving our cat, I also discovered we had something else in common.

Malcolm loved plants and in particular flowers. He spent his day light hours fussing over them outside and then his nights, embroidering them inside.

His hands, so capable with a concrete mixer or a shovel, could also turn out fine needlework. I have several of his cross stitched treasures.

To me they represent his patience, perseverance and quiet endurance. Toward the end, even in severe pain, he worked on creating these little beauties.

Malcolm called me the Flower–Fairy, a name given because when I went past their letterbox for my evening walk I often dropped in a flower from what ever was blooming in my garden.

In return I now call him the Flower–Elf. I know I won’t sit down to embroider as he did so instead I offer up a thought posy.

Here’s rosemary sweet and aromatic for remembrance. A snip of pale pink rosebuds for friendship A collection of pansies for loving thoughts Some larkspur signifying a beautiful spirit

And lastly because, I know you’ll remember the alstroemeria (Peruvian lily) I gave you: how it invaded your garden and how hard you worked to get rid of it, some of that too. It stands for ‘aspiring’ and I know it will make you smile.

Thank-you Malcolm for your gentle love, friendship and kindness. We will remember you.

Sample Eulogy Two: For my sister  Elizabeth

Background notes to this eulogy:.

Rather than write a formal 'sentence by sentence' eulogy, I chose to take 'snapshots' of our childhood featuring the two of us.

Despite the eulogy being segmented it does have a three-part structure. It opens with her birth and the qualities she brought with her. The middle section is devoted to she and me. The ending returns to the start with a summary of her qualities. The repetition of her name throughout was to reinforce her being made up of many individual parts even though all of them were called 'Elizabeth'.

I've asterisked parts of this sample eulogy that you may need further explanation for in order to understand them.

Eulogy for Elizabeth

E lizabeth: an enormous capacity and will to live. Our mother spent many of the months carrying her in bed in order that she stayed put and grew. Even so she was impatient and arrived early.

Elizabeth: 'Mrs Me Too'. I did the talking. She simply said ‘Me too.’

Elizabeth: a whirl of arms and legs, turning cartwheels on the lawn with her skirt tucked into her knickers.

Elizabeth:  determined to be a marching girl and practicing up and down the path to the clothesline.

Elizabeth and I having been to see the movie * South Pacific singing to the garden under the kitchen window. We snapped our fingers in time and danced: ‘Walky, Walky Talky Hollyhocks, Talk about things you like to do…’

Elizabeth and I having elaborate doll’s tea parties under the buddlia trees. Their perfume still reminds me. We gave the dolls pink nail polish fingers and toes. A moment of inspiration later they had splendid sets of nipples too.

Elizabeth and I wearing hand knitted pale blue fluffy boleros and the other kids picking at the fluff.

Elizabeth and I in our * ‘show’ dresses. Hers was white with red spots. When it rained the dye ran red down her bare legs. She cried but later won a kewpie doll on a stick which brought back a smile.

Elizabeth and I playing music. She on the piano and me on the violin. Bach's Minuet in G getting faster and faster until the notes slid into each other and our Mother shouted for peace.

Elizabeth trying to teach me to do a handstand and I kept falling over.

Elizabeth: a tumult of passions, sensitivities, hopes, fears and abilities. The qualities I know to be true, despite the numbing rumble of daily life, were her deep desire to understand, her striving for peace, love and to honor and use her abilities creatively.

Elizabeth was and is a highly intelligent, articulate, courageous and adventurous woman. I loved her.

References:

* South Pacific : The song was actually Happy Talk . The original lyric was ' Happy talk, keep talkin' happy talk, Talk about things you'd like to do '.

At eight and ten years old, Elizabeth and I heard it differently and there were hollyhocks flowering in our garden under the kitchen window. Naturally we sang our song to them. I remember hearing our mother and father laughing, and then seeing them both peep, smiling, through the window at the pair of us. Our duet became part of family history.

* 'show' dresses.  We lived in a rural area. Each spring there was a huge agricultural show and everybody went. In those days, (1960's) girls got new dresses for the occasion usually sewn by their mothers.

And lastly -

Remember - there are no 'right' ways to write a funeral speech except that you are honest, respectful, and sincere.

If you would like further assistance, more than is available here: how to write a eulogy, with a free printable eulogy planning template , please feel free to contact me directly via the form on my About Me page.

Go well. Write with courage and love.

Read more eulogy samples

If you not quite ready to write yet, try reading a eulogy example from the those contributed by visitors to write-out-loud.com.

The idea behind this sample eulogy collection is to provide a library of diverse funeral speeches to help readers like yourself through the often difficult and lonely writing process. 

You'll find many inspiring examples. There are eulogies for mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, friends, grandmothers, grandfathers, sons, daughters ..., in short, everybody.

Or perhaps you've already written a funeral speech and would like to share it to benefit others. Please do. The more we have, the better. If you wanted to, you could enter your tribute speech now.

Grieving? You'll find comfort and support in this free series of inspirational messages . They're my gift to you.

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The Funeral Speech

The funeral or memorial speech is an integral part of most funeral and memorial services.  Funeral speeches include formal eulogies or tributes as well as informal reflections, remembrances and comments.  Funerals, Homegoings and Celebration of Life services include a mix of these funeral speeches to ensure that all close family and friends are given a chance to reflect on their relationship with the deceased, and offer comfort to mourners.  It is considered an honor to be asked to deliver a heartwarming funeral speech.

There are several types of funeral speeches.

Eulogies -- This is the most common funeral speech.  A eulogy is usually the main speech that praises and offers testimonial to the deceased's life.  Eulogies typically are from 5 - 15 minutes.

Tributes -- Sometime tributes are interchangeable with eulogies.  Often, tributes are usual shorter and slightly more informal than a eulogy and are given in addition the formal eulogy.  Tributes gives other close friends and relative a chance to reflect on relationship with the deceased.  May include very personal memories or funny stories about the deceased.

Reflections / Remembrances / Informal Comments . -- Can be co-workers, close friends, typically relationships other than family members.  Usually limited to 2 minutes.

Here are a few tips for composing a funeral speech.

Take time to prepare -- Whether you are just giving informal comments or a formal eulogy, you want to take time to prepare what you plan to say.       

Write down specific memories, or qualities of the deceased that you may want to share.  See our articles on "how to write a eulogy" and our eulogy writing checklist .  Also check out our collection of eulogy examples or maybe look for a sample funeral speech on the internet.

Print your speech, or use note cards so that you can refer to it if you forget what you are going to say.  Use a large font for so that it's easy to read.  Consider putting it in outline form, so that it can be easier to read.

Try to speak in a natural and conversational tone.

Practice your speech

Be mindful of the length of your speech.  If asked to give eulogy funeral speech -- try to keep it between 5 - 15 minutes.  If asked to give reflections or just "say a few words" try to limit to 2 minutes, as there are often several other people who may have been asked to speak

If composing original tribute is too difficult, you may choose to recite a existing poem, favorite passage or scripture.  See our articles on funeral readings , funeral and memorial poems , bible verses for funerals and funeral quotes .

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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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A Simple Funeral Service Script with Candle Lighting and Reading

Published Monday, Jan. 4th, 2021

Written by Bernard King and Jessica Levey

Asked to officiate a memorial or funeral service? This simple script includes a candle lighting ceremony for family and friends, and a reading from Mary Elizabeth Frye. A heartfelt, non religious funeral script to honor a loved one, for a first time celebrant, officiant, or master of ceremony.

Honor a loved one with this thoughtful non religious script for a memorial service or funeral ceremony  

P erforming a funeral ceremony or memorial service for a grieving family takes incredible empathy and understanding. Funeral services and memorials are emotional events, and everyone deals with loss in their own unique way.

As the officiant, you’re likely to encounter tears, laughter, and sometimes even anger, as people work through difficult feelings and memories.

If this is your first time serving as a celebrant, minister, or master of ceremony for a funeral service, read How to Officiate a Funeral or Memorial Service to learn the basics:

How to Officiate a Funeral or Memorial Service

Memorial service or funeral – are they the same thing.

Memorial services and funerals honor the memory of a deceased loved one. However, bodies, caskets, and other forms of remains are not present at memorial services. When a casket or remains are present, the service is called a funeral. 

Memorial services are usually held at family homes, and funerals often take place at funeral homes, but they don’t have to. Anyone can perform these rites, but qualities like compassion, service-mindedness, public speaking, organization, and composure make ordained ministers uniquely qualified, and many families prefer working with one.

(Get ordained online here .)

These services include any elements a family wishes and should reflect the spirit of the person they honor. Most follow a similar outline: A welcome, opening remarks, stories and memories about the deceased (or a eulogy speech), and a ritual of remembrance for friends and family members to participate in, such as a candle lighting ceremony. 

A Simple Funeral Service Script  with Candle Lighting and Reading

Wondering what to say at a funeral this script will get you started.  .

To customize this script, add details and stories about the deceased's life gathered from their family and friends. Include details about their favorite hobbies, music, sense of humor, friends, travels, etc.

Introduction / Opening Remarks

"Welcome everyone, and thank you all for being here today as we share in this service of love for our beloved friend ___________. 

For those of us who knew ___________, we will never forget the way they made us feel. (He/ she/ they) had that warm, welcoming smile that radiated peace and comfort and said “I accept and love you for who you are.” 

It didn’t matter what your musical tastes were, who your favorite sports team was, your culture, race, religion, creed or even your political ideology, ___________ could always find a way to relate to you as an individual, and always found a way to connect and find common ground and similar interests. 

___________'s greatest joys were taking time to hike out in nature, having a good meal and a few drinks on his front porch with friends, or going out to the lake for a late night swim. 

It wasn’t uncommon to see ___________ caught up in a fiery discussion about something they’d read in the news that day, or to catch them joining neighbors in a heated pick-up football or basketball game. 

(He/ she/ they) just had a charismatic energy and laugh, and it was hard not to be drawn to them. Those of us who were able to join (him/ her/ them) in these moments are of course saddened that these times are in the past. But we can find comfort and happiness in those blissful memories, and hold them dearly in our hearts forever. 

Let’s stop for a minute – and remember. What was your happiest memory with ___________?

(pause here for a moment or two)

It was ___________’s wish that we shouldn’t cry or be sad here today. In fact (he/ she/ they) would want us to celebrate life instead – to spend today doing something we love. 

I know that even in ___________’s last days, (he/ she/ they) felt all of your love for (him/ her/ them), carrying it in their heart.

Let us carry that love with us today, and every day, in their memory."

Candle Lighting Ceremony

(Unlit candles are arranged in the front of the room before the ceremony begins, with one larger candle lit and burning. This larger candle can be used by the guests to light the other candles.)

"Now, we have a few candles placed up here in the front, so if anyone here has a special memory of ___________ which they would like to share, they should come up here, tell their memory, and then light a candle. 

Please give an opportunity for family members to share their memories first. 

(After candles are lit, and there is a small pause, continue with the ceremony)

Thank you all for those beautiful memories." 

"This short poem perfectly captures the way ___________ would want us to feel about (his/ her/ their) passing, and their return to the beautiful natural world they loved so deeply. 

It’s called “Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep,” by Mary Elizabeth Frye. 

Do not stand at my grave and weep  I am not there. I do not sleep I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn’s rain. When you awaken in the morning’s hush, I am the swift uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there. I did not die.

This poem reflects ___________’s sentiment towards life, and attitude towards death. 

Not only would they want us not to sit too long in the pain of loss, they would want us to appreciate life and spirit in nature, and in all the things around us that are still living." 

Closing Remarks

"Before we say a last goodbye to ___________ , their family has asked me to thank everybody who came today. 

I know we’ll never forget ___________, our friendship with them, and the way they made us feel about life, and ourselves, and each other. May their memory live on in our hearts and minds."

This is the end of the service, and friends and family are encouraged to talk with each other, hug, and exchange more memories of the deceased before moving to the next planned activity. The officiant (celebrant) can take a few moments after the service to offer additional comfort and kindess to the deceased's close family. 

Wait, why are we talking about memorial services on American Weddings?

We spend a lot of time talking about wedding ceremonies here on the American Weddings blog. This makes sense... Wedding ceremonies (and wedding officiants) are awesome! And they’re our primary focus and passion. 

But AMM Ministers don’t  just  marry people. When they choose to, their roles can extend much further, supporting their communities in important ways, and celebrating not just new beginnings, but endings, too. This deserves to be highlighted! 

Ordination through American Marriage Ministries  gives our ministers all of the same rights and protections held by ministers ordained through traditional brick-and-mortar churches. As an AMM Minister (or Reverend, Pastor, or Officiant, whatever title you choose),  your right to conduct religious ceremonies of all forms  is protected by the religious non-establishment clause of the first amendment. While many of our ministers only conduct wedding ceremonies, others also conduct baptisms, funerals, baby blessings, and other meaningful rites. 

Learn more about what it means to be an AMM Minister  by visiting our  FAQ page . 

You might also like: 

• Celebrations of Life: Wild Child Reverend Scarlett’s memorial services honor people in the same ways they lived
• How to Baptize Someone (and Why They Might Ask You To)  

Staff Writer

Bernard is known for his love of art and passion for music, especially when it comes to playing the bass guitar. He's dedicated to his community, family and friends, but also loves exploring new lifestyles, cultures and ideas.

Lead Staff Writer & Illustrator

Jessica loves exploring the history and magic of ritual, the connections between people and places, and sharing true stories about love and commitment. She's an advocate for marriage equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and individuality, and is an ordained Minister with AMM. When she’s not writing or illustrating for AMM, she enjoys city hikes, fantasy novels, comics, and traveling.

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8 Military Funeral Speech Examples to Pay Tribute

Paying tribute to the brave men and women who served in the armed forces through a military funeral speech is a sacred responsibility. In this collection of military funeral speech examples, we present heartfelt and respectful eulogies that celebrate the valor, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment of our fallen heroes.

Last updated on February 20th, 2024 at 09:39 pm

A military funeral speech, also known as a eulogy or tribute , is a solemn and heartfelt address given during a military funeral to honor and pay tribute to the life, service, and sacrifice of a deceased serviceman or woman.

A military funeral is a solemn occasion that provides an opportunity to pay tribute to the brave men and women who served their country with honor and selflessness.

Delivering a heartfelt and respectful speech during such a ceremony is a significant responsibility, as it allows us to remember and honor the sacrifices made by our fallen heroes.

Tips for Writing a Eulogy for a Veteran

Writing a eulogy for a veteran is a deeply honorable task, as it allows you to pay tribute to someone who has served their country with dedication and sacrifice. Here are some tips to help you craft a meaningful and respectful eulogy for a veteran:

• Research and Gather Information: Take the time to research the veteran’s life, military service, and personal experiences. Speak with family members, friends, and fellow veterans to gather anecdotes, stories, and insights that will help you create a comprehensive picture of their life and character.
• Highlight Their Military Service: Emphasize the veteran’s military service and the contributions they made during their time in the armed forces. Mention any notable achievements, commendations, or acts of bravery they exhibited during their service.
• Be Respectful and Sensitive: A eulogy for a veteran should be delivered with the utmost respect and sensitivity. Avoid discussing any controversial topics or aspects of their life that might not be appropriate for the occasion.
• Share Personal Stories: Include personal stories and memories that showcase the veteran’s personality, values, and impact on others. Highlight their positive traits and the positive ways they affected the lives of those around them.
• Acknowledge Sacrifices: Recognize and acknowledge the sacrifices the veteran made during their service, including time spent away from family, physical and emotional hardships endured, and the toll of war.
• Express Gratitude: Express gratitude for the veteran’s service and the sacrifices they made in defending their country. Thank them for their dedication, bravery, and the legacy they leave behind.
• Consider Military Traditions: If the veteran had specific military affiliations or traditions, incorporate them respectfully into the eulogy. Mention any military honors or ceremonies that will take place during the funeral.
• Keep It Concise: While it’s essential to be heartfelt and meaningful, keep the eulogy concise and focused. Aim for a length of 5-10 minutes, as longer speeches may become overwhelming for grieving attendees.
• Practice and Emote: Rehearse the eulogy to ensure a smooth delivery. Speak from the heart, and don’t be afraid to show emotion as it demonstrates your genuine connection to the veteran.
• Seek Feedback: Before delivering the eulogy, consider sharing it with close family members or friends to get their input and ensure its accuracy and appropriateness.

Remember, writing a eulogy for a veteran is an opportunity to honor their memory and express gratitude for their service. Approach the task with sincerity, respect, and compassion, and your eulogy will serve as a fitting tribute to their life and legacy.

Military Funeral Speech Examples

Below, I’ve written examples of 4 different military eulogy styles: The Eulogy of Remembrance, The Grateful Nation, A Tribute to a Fearless Warrior, and The Promise of Remembrance.

For each style, I’ve included a shorter condensed version and a longer extended version to give you a bit of choice depending on whether you’re supposed to simply give a few short words or a full-blown speech.

The Eulogy of Remembrance (Condensed)

“Ladies and gentlemen, today we gather with heavy hearts to honor and bid farewell to a true hero. Our departed [Rank] [Name] answered the call of duty with unwavering dedication and commitment. As we remember [Name]’s life and service, let us not mourn in sorrow, but celebrate the legacy [he/she] leaves behind.

[Name]’s love for our nation was undeniable, as [he/she] faced adversity with bravery and grace. [He/She] embodied the principles of duty, honor, and courage that define the finest soldiers among us. [He/She] stood tall and resolute in the face of danger, protecting our freedoms and the values we hold dear.

Today, as we say our goodbyes, let us find solace in the knowledge that [Name]’s sacrifice was not in vain. [His/Her] memory will forever be etched in our hearts, inspiring future generations to follow in [his/her] footsteps. Let us honor [Name]’s memory by living our lives with the same unwavering dedication to our country and fellow citizens.”

The Eulogy of Remembrance (Extended)

Ladies and gentlemen,

Today, we gather here with heavy hearts to pay tribute to a remarkable soul, [Rank] [Name], who dedicated [his/her] life to the service of our great nation. It is an honor and a privilege to stand before you and share some words that attempt to encapsulate the immense impact [Name] has had on all of us and the profound legacy [he/she] leaves behind.

[Name] was not only a soldier, but a true hero who embodied the very essence of courage, honor, and sacrifice. From [his/her] earliest days, [Name] demonstrated a sense of duty and a calling to protect and defend. When the time came, [he/she] answered the nation’s call, standing tall among the finest defenders of freedom.

[His/Her] journey as a soldier was one filled with both triumphs and trials. [Name] faced adversity with unyielding resilience, overcoming challenges with grace and determination. [He/She] was not only a leader in the ranks but also a friend and mentor to countless comrades who had the privilege of serving alongside [him/her].

The love [Name] had for our country was evident in every action [he/she] took. [His/Her] unwavering commitment to the principles that our nation stands for—liberty, justice, and democracy—was unwavering. [Name]’s dedication to the cause was the driving force that pushed [him/her] to be the best version of [himself/herself], both in uniform and in life beyond the battlefield.

[His/Her] bravery was unmatched, as [he/she] faced danger head-on without flinching. Whether it was on foreign soil, defending our freedoms in distant lands, or safeguarding our homeland from threats, [Name] was always at the forefront, leading by example. [His/Her] actions spoke volumes, inspiring those around [him/her] to rise to the occasion and follow [his/her] lead.

Yet, for all the battles [Name] fought, [his/her] heart remained gentle and compassionate. [He/She] understood the true cost of war—the toll it takes on the lives of countless families and the sacrifices made by our soldiers and their loved ones. Despite witnessing the harsh realities of conflict, [Name] maintained a sense of humanity that endeared [him/her] to all who knew [him/her].

[His/Her] valor, however, cannot be measured merely by medals or accolades, for the true measure of [Name]’s greatness lies in the lives [he/she] touched. [His/Her] selflessness extended beyond the battlefield, as [he/she] generously gave [his/her] time and support to the community, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.

Today, as we bid farewell to [Name], let us not mourn in sorrow but celebrate the legacy [he/she] leaves behind. Let us find solace in knowing that [his/her] sacrifice was not in vain, and [his/her] memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing [him/her]. [Name]’s spirit will continue to inspire us to be better individuals, to strive for a more just and compassionate world, and to cherish the freedoms we enjoy.

In closing, let us remember [Name]’s unwavering commitment to our nation, the valor [he/she] displayed in the face of adversity, and the love [he/she] had for [his/her] fellow citizens. May [his/her] memory be forever etched in our hearts, guiding us as we continue to protect and uphold the values that [Name] so dearly cherished.

Rest in peace, dear [Rank] [Name]. You have served your nation with distinction and have earned a place of honor among the bravest souls to have walked this earth. Your memory will remain an eternal flame, lighting the path for future generations to follow. Farewell, our hero, farewell.

The Grateful Nation (Condensed)

“As we stand here today, we come together as a grateful nation to honor one of our finest defenders. [Rank] [Name] selflessly chose a path of service, dedicating [his/her] life to protect the freedoms we hold dear. [He/She] made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation, a testament to [his/her] extraordinary courage and love for country.

In times of conflict, [Name] exemplified the true meaning of valor, facing danger head-on without hesitation. [He/She] proved [himself/herself] time and again as an exceptional soldier, a leader, and a friend to many. [Name]’s unwavering commitment to duty and loyalty to [his/her] comrades serve as an enduring example of the virtues that define our armed forces.

Today, we salute [Name] and the countless others who have given their lives to protect the liberties we cherish. Their memory lives on in the very fabric of our nation, and their legacy inspires us to strive for a better, safer world. Let us remember their sacrifice not with sorrow alone but with gratitude for the profound impact they have left on our lives and our nation’s history.”

The Grateful Nation (Extended)

Today, we gather as a grateful nation to pay our solemn respects to a true patriot and defender of freedom, [Rank] [Name]. We stand here not only to mourn the loss of a remarkable soul but to celebrate the profound impact [he/she] had on our lives and the legacy [he/she] leaves behind.

[Name] was more than a soldier; [he/she] was a shining example of the ideals and principles that define the very essence of our nation. [His/Her] unwavering commitment to duty and dedication to protecting our homeland exemplified the highest standard of service and sacrifice.

Throughout [his/her] life, [Name] displayed a deep love for our country, a love that fueled [his/her] unwavering resolve to protect the freedoms we hold dear. [He/She] understood the true cost of liberty—the bloodshed and sweat that have been shed by countless men and women throughout history to preserve the values we cherish today.

As we gather here, surrounded by the somber symbols of respect and gratitude, we must remember that our beloved [Name] was more than just a soldier in uniform. [He/She] was a son/daughter, a sibling, a friend, a comrade, and a beacon of hope for all who had the privilege of knowing [him/her]. [His/Her] life was filled with laughter, joy, and compassion, reminding us that even in times of conflict, we must never forget the humanity that binds us all together.

[Name]’s journey as a defender of freedom was one marked by sacrifice and selflessness. [He/She] willingly placed [himself/herself] in harm’s way to protect us, the citizens [he/she] cherished and served with utmost dedication. [His/Her] commitment to safeguarding our nation transcended personal aspirations, as [he/she] understood that true greatness lies in giving of oneself for the betterment of others.

In times of conflict, [Name] stood tall among the bravest, bravely facing adversaries and dangers that threatened our way of life. [His/Her] courage and resilience were unwavering, and [he/she] proved to be a source of inspiration for [his/her] comrades and all those who knew [him/her].

As we reflect on [Name]’s service and sacrifice, we are reminded of the countless heroes who have stood before us, selflessly offering their lives to protect the liberties we often take for granted. It is because of them that we stand here today, basking in the warmth of freedom, cherishing the rights and opportunities that define our nation.

Today, we come together as a grateful nation, offering our heartfelt thanks to [Rank] [Name] and the countless others who have made the ultimate sacrifice. We honor their memory not with hollow words but with the commitment to uphold the values they fought for. Let us strive to be better citizens, better human beings, and better caretakers of the precious gift of freedom that [Name] and many others have entrusted to our care.

As we say our final farewell to [Name], we find solace in the knowledge that [his/her] legacy will endure through the ages, reminding us that the true essence of a grateful nation lies not in mourning their loss but in cherishing their memory and carrying their spirit in our hearts.

Rest in peace, dear [Rank] [Name]. Your watch has ended, and we are forever indebted to you for the freedom you preserved. Your memory will live on, inspiring us to strive for a brighter, more just world—one that truly reflects the values for which you so valiantly fought.

May your soul find eternal peace as we bid you farewell with gratitude, respect, and love. Thank you, our hero, thank you.

A Tribute to a Fearless Warrior (Condensed)

Today, we gather as a community of mourners to pay our respects and bid farewell to a true hero, [Rank] [Name]. [His/Her] unwavering courage and sacrifice on the battlefield were unmatched, inspiring awe in all who knew [him/her]. [Name] not only exemplified the essence of a fearless warrior but also radiated compassion and camaraderie among [his/her] comrades. [His/Her] memory will forever live on in our hearts, as we promise to honor [his/her] legacy by upholding the values [he/she] fought to protect.

[Name]’s journey as a soldier was marked by extraordinary valor, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to duty. From the frontlines to the darkest corners of conflict, [he/she] stood tall, an unyielding bastion against the tides of darkness. [His/Her] love for [his/her] unit was evident, as [he/she] stood by [his/her] comrades with unwavering support and care.

As we say our final goodbyes, let us find solace in the knowledge that [Name]’s sacrifice was not in vain. [His/Her] memory will live on, not only in the hearts of [his/her] family and friends but also in the hearts of a grateful nation. To our fallen hero, we offer our profound gratitude—for the liberties we hold dear, for the peace we cherish, and for the safety of our homeland. Your bravery and sacrifice have left an indelible mark on our lives. Farewell, and thank you for your service and sacrifice.

A Tribute to a Fearless Warrior (Extended)

Today, we stand here with heavy hearts, united in grief and gratitude, to bid farewell to a remarkable soul, [Rank] [Name]. We gather not only as mourners but as witnesses to a life of unparalleled courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to duty.

[Name] was a true warrior, a defender of freedom who faced adversity head-on without flinching. [His/Her] journey as a soldier was one filled with valor and resilience, a testament to the indomitable spirit that resided within [him/her].

In the midst of chaos and turmoil, [Name] stood firm, an unyielding bastion against the tides of darkness. [He/She] faced battles with a calm determination, never losing sight of the mission or the comrades who fought by [his/her] side. In the crucible of conflict, [Name] demonstrated the epitome of bravery, inspiring awe and admiration in all who had the privilege of witnessing [his/her] valor.

But [Name] was more than a fearless warrior. [He/She] was a beacon of hope, a source of strength for [his/her] unit, and a friend to many. [His/Her] genuine care for the well-being of [his/her] fellow soldiers was evident in the camaraderie they shared—a bond forged through shared experiences and a common purpose.

In times of darkness, [Name] brought a glimmer of light, a touch of humanity amidst the chaos of battle. [His/Her] unwavering determination and sense of humor lifted the spirits of those around [him/her], providing a respite from the hardships of war. [His/Her] acts of kindness and selflessness were an inspiration to all and reflected the true essence of a soldier—someone who not only defends but also uplifts.

As we mourn the loss of our dear [Rank] [Name], let us remember that [his/her] legacy extends far beyond the battlefield. [He/She] was a son/daughter, a sibling, a partner, and a cherished member of the community. [His/Her] love and dedication extended to [his/her] family, who stood by [him/her] with unwavering support and pride throughout [his/her] journey of service.

As we say our final goodbyes, let us find solace in knowing that [Name]’s sacrifice was not in vain. [His/Her] memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew [him/her], a guiding light in times of darkness, a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.

To our fallen hero, we offer our profound gratitude for the liberties we hold dear, for the peace we cherish, and for the safety of our homeland. Your bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Today, we bid farewell to [Rank] [Name], but we promise to carry [him/her] in our hearts, forever. We vow to honor [his/her] memory by standing together as a united nation, upholding the ideals [Name] held dear and working towards a world in which peace and compassion prevail.

Rest in peace, dear [Rank] [Name]. Your watch may have ended, but your legacy will endure in the annals of history—a testament to the bravery and unwavering devotion that define a true warrior.

Farewell, our fearless warrior, farewell.

The Promise of Remembrance (Condensed)

“Today, we gather to pay our respects to a remarkable individual who embodied the values of a true patriot. [Rank] [Name] was more than just a soldier; [he/she] was a guardian of freedom, a beacon of hope, and a symbol of strength for all of us.

[Name]’s unwavering sense of duty and commitment to protecting our homeland serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by countless servicemen and women. [His/Her] legacy teaches us that freedom comes at a price, a price paid with unwavering devotion to our nation and its people.

As we say our final goodbyes, let us pledge to remember [Name]’s sacrifice and the sacrifices of all those who have fallen before [him/her]. Let us cherish their memories, ensuring that their names and deeds are etched into the annals of history for generations to come. Our promise to remember, honor, and uphold their ideals will keep their spirit alive in our hearts forever.”

The Promise of Remembrance (Extended)

Today, we gather here with heavy hearts to honor the memory of a true patriot, [Rank] [Name]. As we mourn the loss of a brave soldier and a cherished friend, we also celebrate a life well-lived—one filled with courage, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to the principles that define our nation.

[Name] was not just a soldier; [he/she] was a guardian of freedom, a symbol of strength, and a source of inspiration for all who had the privilege of crossing [his/her] path. [His/Her] journey as a defender of our homeland was marked by a profound sense of duty and an unyielding promise to protect the liberties we hold dear.

From [his/her] earliest days, [Name] displayed a remarkable sense of purpose—a calling to serve, protect, and make a difference in the lives of others. [He/She] understood that freedom comes with a price, and [he/she] was willing to pay that price, pledging [his/her] life to safeguard the values and rights we cherish.

[His/Her] commitment to the cause of liberty was unwavering, even in the face of adversity and uncertainty. [Name] stood resolute on the frontlines, facing danger with courage, and leading by example. [His/Her] valor was not merely confined to the battlefield; it was a part of [his/her] very being, a guiding light that illuminated the path for others to follow.

In times of conflict, [Name] displayed extraordinary bravery, never hesitating to put others before [himself/herself]. [His/Her] actions embodied the essence of selflessness, as [he/she] often made sacrifices for the greater good, knowing that the well-being of our nation and its people was paramount.

Today, as we bid farewell to [Name], we must recognize that our promise of remembrance is not one to be taken lightly. It is a sacred vow—an obligation to preserve [his/her] memory, ensuring that [his/her] legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew [him/her].

We promise to remember [Name] not just as a soldier, but as a person—filled with dreams, hopes, and aspirations. We will cherish [his/her] laughter, kindness, and the love [he/she] shared with us all.

We promise to honor [Name]’s sacrifice by valuing the freedoms [he/she] fought to protect. We will never take for granted the rights and opportunities that have been secured for us by [him/her] and the countless other brave souls who have given their lives in service to our nation.

We promise to stand united as a nation, bound together by the shared ideals that [Name] upheld. We will continue to build bridges of understanding and compassion, knowing that it is our collective strength that ensures the endurance of our nation’s legacy.

As we bid farewell to our dear [Rank] [Name], we do not say goodbye with sorrow alone. Instead, we embrace [him/her] with gratitude and love, thanking [him/her] for [his/her] indelible impact on our lives and our nation.

Rest in peace, dear [Rank] [Name]. You have served your nation with distinction and have earned a place of honor among the bravest souls to have walked this earth. Your memory will remain an eternal flame, lighting the path for future generations to follow.

We promise to remember, honor, and uphold your ideals as we continue the journey you began—a journey towards a better, more compassionate world.

Farewell, our hero, farewell.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone deliver a military funeral speech.

Yes, typically, anyone close to the deceased or with a connection to the military can deliver a military funeral speech. This may include family members, friends, fellow service members, or military chaplains.

Are there specific guidelines for crafting a military funeral speech?

While there are no strict rules, a military funeral speech should be respectful, dignified, and mindful of the deceased’s military service and personal life . Including anecdotes, stories, and memories can add a personal touch to the tribute.

How long should a military funeral speech be?

Military funeral speeches are generally kept concise, typically lasting between 3 to 5 minutes . It is essential to convey heartfelt sentiments while keeping the overall speech respectful and focused.

Is it appropriate to use humor in a military funeral speech?

While humor can be a way to celebrate the life and personality of the deceased, it should be used with utmost sensitivity and appropriateness . Be mindful of the solemnity of the occasion and the feelings of the grieving audience.

Can I share the military funeral speech with others after the service?

Absolutely. If appropriate, you can share the speech with others who may not have been able to attend the service, allowing them to join in honoring and remembering the departed individual’s life and service.

Final Thoughts

A military funeral is a time of somber reflection and heartfelt appreciation for the men and women who bravely served their country. The speeches delivered during these solemn ceremonies provide an opportunity to celebrate the lives and sacrifices of our fallen heroes. Each example speech above aims to capture the essence of gratitude, patriotism, and the indomitable spirit of those who served in the armed forces. Through these words, we hope to perpetuate their legacy, reminding us all of the importance of service, honor, and sacrifice in preserving the freedom we hold dear.

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• Condolences & What To Say

What to Say at a Funeral Service or Wake: 15+ Ideas

Updated 12/27/2022

Published 12/12/2019

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 .

Attending a funeral isn’t always easy. Funerals are a chance for the family to come together to mourn and remember a loved one. Paying your respects is a way to show your support. However, feeling unsure of the words to say at a funeral is a common experience. How do you approach someone who’s mourning a loss? How do you avoid saying the wrong thing?

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• Fruit and Nut Gift Basket ($25.06)
• Self-Care Subscription Box ($39.99)

Jump ahead to these sections:

What to say if your loved one died, what should you avoid saying at a funeral, what to say to close family and friends at their loved one’s funeral, what to say to acquaintances, colleagues, or clients at their loved one’s funeral, what to say at a funeral visitation or wake.

• Quick Tips for Public Speaking at a Funeral

Funeral Speech Examples

These answers aren’t always straightforward. Offering your condolences is an integral part of the funeral process, but it’s also one of the hardest things to do comfortably. Understanding proper funeral etiquette goes a long way towards helping you know what to say. The better prepared you are, the easier it is to find those perfect words of sympathy. 

Share your final wishes, just in case.

Create a free Cake end-of-life planning profile and instantly share your health, legal, funeral, and legacy decisions with a loved one.

If you’re close to the deceased, you might find yourself the center of attention at the funeral. Guests usually reach out to the close family to offer words of kindness and support, but these aren’t always easy to handle. 

What do you say if your loved one died? How do you avoid being overcome with emotion? Because this is often a challenge, follow these tips below:

• Practice makes perfect - Don’t be afraid to practice what you’ll say in advance. Practice with yourself and with other close family members. The more you say what you’ve prepared, the easier it will be. 
• Make sure you have the right tech for online guests - If you chose to use a virtual funeral  using a service like  GatheringUs , you can still speak to your online guests. Coordinate with your planning team and ensure you have the right AV equipment.
• Keep it short and sweet - Avoid the pressure to say more than you need to. Keep your comments quick and to the point. 
• Set boundaries - It’s okay to have boundaries about what you’re willing to talk about. You don’t have to answer any uncomfortable questions or say more than you feel comfortable with. 
• Find your support system - Lean on close friends and family at the funeral for support. It’s okay to distance yourself from those you don’t wish to speak with right now. This is your time to grieve. 

Tip:  Figuring out what to say is just one of the many challenges you can face when someone you love dies. Our post-loss checklist can help you face and overcome those challenges, whether they're legal, financial, or personal.

Examples of what to say

Since words aren’t always easy to find, it helps to have a few examples of what to say. Again, short and simple is almost always best. Here is what to say to your friends and family if your close loved one died.

• This is a difficult loss. I was very close to [Name].
• [Name] a large part of my life. I’ll never forget their kindness. 
• [Name] will be missed by the entire family. 
• We are all so sorry for this loss. [Name] was loved by many. 

It’s important to realize that not everything is appropriate for a funeral. Some phrases can do more harm than good, even if they’re coming from a kind place. Some outdated phrases might be well-intentioned, but they send the wrong message to friends and family in need. While it’s understandably difficult to find the right words to say, the wrong comments only make matters worse.

With that in mind, what should you avoid saying at a funeral? Anything that could be seen as making light of the situation or poking blame should be avoided at all costs. You never want to place blame on the deceased, their family, or anyone else associated with the funeral. No matter the circumstances around the death of this person, you should be aware of the power of your words.

Examples of what not to say

What phrases should always be avoided? Though there are many variations on these below, you’d be surprised how common they are. It doesn’t take much thinking to recognize why these are completely unacceptable to say to a grieving individual, no matter how much time has passed since the loss.

• It could always be worse. 
• I’m not surprised they died. 
• It was fate/destiny. 
• His/her death was a part of God’s plan.
• Everything happens for a reason. 
• It was his/her time. 
• Death is a part of the circle of life. It’s only natural. 
• You still have it better than others. 
• It was harder when I lost my own loved one.
• You’ll get over this soon. 
• You’re still young.

In general, always avoid any phrases like “it’s better…” or “at least…” since these make unfair comparisons. There’s no way to measure loss. You should never compare your own experiences to someone else’s, no matter how hard these were for you. Similarly, never suggest that someone mourning should feel any differently. Grief takes many forms, and it’s okay to process these feelings in your own way. 

When in doubt, use these phrases below. You never want to say anything that could be taken the wrong way. When in doubt, it’s best to keep your response simple. There’s never anything wrong with saying you’re sorry for someone’s loss. Above all, people just want to be heard and understood. You don’t need to make any bold claims or comparisons. 

If you’re attending the funeral to support friends and family in their time of need, it’s a good idea to give thought to what you plan to say. Offering sympathy to those you’re close to might mean the world to them. Yet, knowing what to say to someone who lost a parent or a close relative is difficult. 

If you haven’t experienced a similar loss for yourself, you might have a hard time understanding what he or she is going through. Follow these tips to stay courteous and respectful:

• Practice your tone - Again, this is a situation where practice makes perfect. Aside from practicing what you’ll say, practice your tone. You want to make sure you sound sincere but not overly emotional. An even tone is ideal. 
• Don’t overly sympathize - If you’ve never experienced this type of loss, don’t try to compare your situation to someone else’s. Keep the focus of your sympathy messages on them. 
• Avoid the afterlife - Even if you know someone’s religious background, it’s best to avoid talk of the afterlife in what you say. That means avoiding phrases like “he’s in a better place” or “she’s in heaven now.” Again, limit your comments to the person you’re speaking to and not on what’s happened to the deceased. 
• Don’t make light of the situation - Keep from telling jokes or making light of the situation. Grief affects everyone differently, and everyone is entitled to their own feelings. 
• Give a gift - If you’re not good at finding the right words, offer a gift instead. Funeral flowers , a sympathy gift basket , or other kind gestures are other ways to be respectful. 
• Let them grieve - Last but not least, let your friend or family member know it’s okay to grieve. Be the emotional support they need. 

It’s best to have your best speech filter on when attending a funeral. Be mindful of your words and how they come across. When in doubt, say one of these sympathy messages below. 

• I’m sorry for your loss. 
• [Name] was a loved community member. We will all miss them.
• Your family is in my thoughts and prayers at this time. 
• Let me know if you need anything right now. I’m here for you. 
• I have fond memories of your [relationship to the deceased]. 

What do you say when you’re not very close to someone who lost a loved one? If your acquaintance, colleague, client, or other relation recently suffered a loss, it is polite to offer sympathy. Since you don’t know this person well, keep things simple. You don’t want to overstep. 

Fumbling over your words isn’t uncommon when you’re faced with someone else’s grief. These tips will guide you in being respectful and kind:

• Timing matters - Your condolences should be given at the time that’s best for the individual, not you. If you wish to say something to a coworker, for example, the end of the day is usually best. 
• Don’t bring it up yourself - If you know someone recently suffered a loss, saying something unprompted might bring up painful feelings for that person. If you decide to check in with their wellbeing, do so carefully. 
• Join with others - If you don’t know the person very well, it might be better to offer sympathy in a communal way. For an office, having everyone sign a card is a gentle way to give support. The recipient still knows everyone is thinking of them in their time of need. 

It’s better to say something than to avoid saying anything. Though it might be uncomfortable, don’t let these feelings get in the way of this person’s grief. Here are some polite things to say when the timing is right:

• “I’m sorry for your loss.”
• “My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.”
• “Is there any way I can help?”

At a funeral visitation or wake, the body is typically present. In many cultures, a visitation or wake is a chance to pay initial respects to the family and say goodbye to the deceased. However, it can be confusing to know what to say. Wakes are an opportunity to be present in the moment, using your words to bring positivity and compassion.

There are many different types of funeral visitations or wakes. In some cultures, these are informal events that take place inside the home of the deceased. These are usually only open to close friends and family. If you’re invited to a home wake, be sure to deliver your condolences briefly and avoid overstaying your welcome. 

Additionally, you might be invited to a visitation before a funeral. This is usually more formal than a wake, and the family will be present. Many funerals also include a receiving line in which you greet each member of the immediate family directly before visiting with the deceased. All of these are somber events, so you should be prepared with appropriate ways to pay respects. 

What should you say when offering condolences at a wake? While your exact words might depend on your relationship with the deceased and his or her family, there are a lot of ways to show respect. When paired with flowers, a sympathy card, or other condolence gifts, these truly show how much you care. 

• “While I wish we were here under different circumstances, I’m honored to be present here today with your family.” 
• “You’ve organized a very special wake in honor of [Name]. I know how much they meant to you. I’m so sorry for your loss.”
• “You’ve done a great job putting together this wake in honor of your loved one. Is there anything I can help you with? I’m always here for you.” 
• “I just wanted to remind you how much I care for you. [Name] was an amazing person, and I’ll never forget them.” 
• “It’s clear just how loved [Name] was. Their loss will be felt by all.” 
• “I can’t begin to express how sorry I am to hear about your loss. Please know I’m here for you today and always. If there’s anything you need, don’t hesitate to reach out.” 
• “Even though I didn’t know [Name] very well, I know how much they meant to you. I’m so sorry for your loss.” 

Quick Tips for Public Speaking at a Funeral 

It’s common for the family to ask if any guests wish to speak at the funeral. Speaking at a funeral is a great way to express your feelings about the loss of a loved one, particularly if you were close to this person.

You also might give a speech if you’re close to a family member of the deceased. He or she might ask you to speak on their behalf or to talk about their relationship with their loved one. However, public speaking when emotions are running high isn’t always easy. 

No matter your comfort level with talking in front of others, this is an intimidating situation. You want to handle the situation with grace and confidence, even if you have to fake it until you make it. These tips will help you with public speaking at a funeral. 

1. Write what you’ll say in advance 

The best way to prepare is to write what you want to say in advance. For this, learn how to write a eulogy . Eulogies are a type of praise honoring someone who’s passed away. By writing a eulogy or other speech, you make sure you don’t leave anything out during the delivery. 

While writing down your speech is a great idea, avoid reading directly from the paper. Jotting down notes or practicing in advance gives you more confidence. 

2. Tell a story

When in doubt, tell a story. As humans, we communicate through stories. This is a sure way to gain the audience’s attention while expressing something significant about the deceased.

For example, you might share how the deceased helped you in a time of need or a special trip you took together. Either way, keep the focus on the deceased and the family. 

3. Don’t speak for too long

While a speech is an amazing way to pay respects to a loved one, you don’t want to take too long. The ideal time frame for a funeral speech is between three and five minutes. Anything more than that risks losing the audience’s attention.

You also don’t want to take away from the rest of the service or anyone else's opportunity to say a few words. 

4. Do calming exercises

Public speaking is intimidating under the best of circumstances. When also dealing with a loss, it’s hard to stop feeling overwhelmed. If possible, perform calming exercises before speaking. These put you in the right frame of mind to speak. Here are some tips to help you feel calm and help you to hold back unwanted tears :

• Take deep breaths
• Rely on a friend or family member for support
• Drink water
• Go for a short walk in the hallway or nearby

5. Address the family

When giving your speech, make sure you’re addressing the family. Speak to the front row. These are the ones who were closest to the deceased, and they’re the ones who listen the most attentively.

When addressing someone directly, such as a close friend or family member, look at them. This makes your speech much more personal.  

Giving a speech at a funeral can be intimidating, especially if you’ve never given one before. Using a funeral speech example as inspiration can help you approach this challenge with ease. The tribute for every speech has a basic flow, and it doesn’t have to be perfect. The most important thing is that your funeral speech comes from the heart. 

Below, you’ll find funeral speech examples for a variety of situations. If you’ve been given the honor to speak at a funeral, don’t stress about finding the “right” thing to say. The words are inside you already, and you just have to speak from your heart.

For a parent’s funeral

For anyone who doesn’t know me yet, I am Johnathan’s daughter, Mandy. Thank you for joining me today to say goodbye to my dad. From my earliest days, my dad was one of my best friends. He was the loudest one cheering me on at my tennis tournaments, and he was the person I always looked to for guidance. His kind of love was unconditional. Even in the bad times, he knew that a hug and a warm cup of tea had the power to turn the whole day around. 

Though I like to think I’m the favorite child, I know my dad didn’t play favorites. He loved me and my sisters equally, and holidays will never be the same now that he’s gone. As you know, my dad had a love of 80s rock music that couldn’t be beat. In conclusion, I wanted to read some of his favorite Queen lyrics in his honor. Thank you for listening. 

For a grandparent’s funeral

Today, I’m honored to celebrate the life of my grandpa, Abe, though we all knew him as “Poppy.” Born in 1935, he was always a storyteller. Whether he was entertaining his uncles in his early childhood or his buddies at college, he was never caught without something to say. He always said that’s how he won over Grandma—with a story. 

Above all, Poppy was a family man. He knew it was important to put family first in all things, and this is a lesson I hope to carry with me for the rest of my own days. A devoted husband, father, and friend, there’s no one I admire more than my grandpa. His life with Gran was inspirational, and I feel relief knowing he’s finally at peace after a long battle with cancer. Family dinners might never be the same, but he’ll always be remembered. Here’s to you, Poppy!

For a partner or spouse’s funeral

As most of you know, my name is Janice. I met Scott, my husband, over two decades ago. I had just moved to Toronto, and he was one of the first people I met at my new apartment complex. I’ll never forget him showing me around the city for the first time. We were married within the very same year, and I count my blessings for meeting him every day.

We had 15 years of marriage together, and we shared so much love. He gave me two beautiful children, and they love him just as much as me. Scott and I might not have gotten our entire lives together, but the time we did have was so worthwhile. Being his wife made me the luckiest woman in the world. Though things will never be the same, I see him living on through the resilience of his children and the kindness of our friends and family. Thank you for being here with me to celebrate his life.

For a sibling’s funeral

When asked about my brother, Dylan, I always say he has a sixth sense. Even as a child, he always knew when I was having an off day or when he could press me even farther with his teasing. I have a vivid memory of him around 13 years old stopping a neighborhood game to invite one of more quiet kids to hang out with them. This was a simple gesture, but it just goes to show how observant he was. 

Even as an adult, Dylan and I always had a connection. My only brother, he was always just a phone call away for me or anyone else in the family. I’ll miss my brother like I miss the summer sun. Though it can’t stay forever, I can always feel its warmth. A fearless, kind man, I am so thankful to have been blessed with him in my life. 

For a child’s funeral

Though I’m sure we all wish we were gathering today under different circumstances, thank you for being here. My name is Susan, and I’m Jamie’s aunt. I’ll be speaking on behalf of my brother, James, and his wife, Melissa. I’ll never forget the day my brother called to let me know Melissa was pregnant with Jamie. I knew she was a special blessing right from that moment. 

Once Jamie was here, she instantly brought light to our lives. She was always a happy baby, and her smile is something we’ll never forget. Endeared to everyone who met her, she was an absolute angel. Though her life was short, her warmth was felt by all. Even when she and her parents spent so many days at the hospital, she never once wavered in her courage. I invite anyone who wishes to share some of your favorite memories of Jamie with us all.

For a best friend’s funeral

Hi all, thank you for coming today. My name is Jessica, and I’ve been friends with Kelly since I first moved to her neighborhood in kindergarten. We lived just a few houses apart, and we must have spent almost every day together from elementary to high school. When I think of Kelly, I think of someone who loved to explore and laugh. Whether we were sneaking out after curfew or hosting an infamous movie night, Kelly was my partner in crime for everything. 

More than an adventure-seeker, Kelly was also a generous soul. I could always count on her to drop everything to help anyone in need, whether it’s a close friend or someone she just met. She put her family first, and she knew what really mattered most in life. Though I’m sad to have lost my best friend, I am happy to have been blessed with so many years by her side. I know she’ll always be with me, and I hope I make her proud. Thank you.

For a colleague’s funeral

Today, we gather to honor our dear College Louie. We were all saddened to hear of his passing last month. The community has lost a warm, hard-working individual. Many of us here counted Louie amongst our friends and with good reason. Quick to offer his help, knowledge, or a funny quip, Louie was a friend to all. 

At our company, Louie served with compassion for over three decades. His work affected every department and level. As a leader, he fought for innovation and change without putting others down. In his honor, we will be dedicated a special volunteer program each year towards a cause he cared greatly about: education. Let’s all remember Louie’s hard work and what he meant to our team.

Discover the Right Words of Sympathy

While it might seem insignificant, how you express your sympathy to those you love really matters. Those words and gestures might mean everything to them in their time of need. Yet, finding the right words to say isn’t always easy. Funerals are often uncomfortable or even awkward because of this.

These events don’t have to be this way. But, you’ll never be in the dark about what to say if you use these tips and tricks above.

Have you given much thought to your own end-of-life planning ? There are tons of options, from having a virtual funeral service to turning ashes into a cremation diamond . Thinking about how you’d like to be remembered might inspire you to offer kind and generous condolences to your loved ones when they need it. 

Post-loss tip: If you are the executor for a deceased loved one, the emotional and technical aspects of handling their unfinished business can be overwhelming without a way to organize your process. We have a post-loss checklist  that will help you ensure that your loved one's family, estate, and other affairs are taken care of.

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Eulogy writing guide, funeral speeches for a work colleague, tribute speech to dad from daughter, funeral speech writing advice, sample opening remarks for a funeral service.

• January 25, 2024

Table of Contents

Opening Remarks For A Funeral Service Example 1

Compassionate assistance in creating a meaningful eulogy, collaborative crafting of a legacy-honoring speech, testimonials: heartfelt experiences with eulogy assistant, why are opening remarks at a funeral service important, how can i craft opening remarks that are both sensitive and uplifting, what elements can i include to make the opening remarks engaging, can i add a touch of humor to the opening remarks, how can i make the opening remarks relatable to everyone present, what are some ways to make the remarks personal and heartfelt, how can i incorporate moments of reflection in the opening remarks, can i quote the deceased's favorite literary pieces in the opening remarks, how long should the opening remarks be, how can i conclude the opening remarks gracefully, is it appropriate to share personal memories during the opening remarks, can i invite others to share their memories during the opening remarks, how can i prepare myself to deliver the opening remarks without being overwhelmed by emotions, opening remarks for a funeral service example 2, opening remarks for a funeral service example 3, opening remarks for a funeral service example 4, opening remarks for a funeral service example 5, opening remarks for a funeral service example 6, how eulogy assistant supports you, sample opening remarks for a funeral service frequently asked questions.

Losing a loved one is an emotionally challenging time, and it can be overwhelming to plan a funeral service that honours the deceased while providing comfort and solace to grieving friends and family members. A crucial element of such a service is the opening remarks, which set the tone for the entire event. These words are essential in setting the stage for honouring the memory of the departed, while also providing assurance and consolation to the audience. In this article, we offer sample opening remarks that can guide and inspire you to craft a meaningful tribute for your loved one. We will also introduce you to the Eulogy Assistant , an incredible tool that can help you write a personalised and heartfelt eulogy with ease.

Good morning/afternoon everyone,

As we gather here under the gentle embrace of the sky, we come together to celebrate the remarkable journey of a life lived with passion, grace, and immense love. In this sacred moment of remembrance, let us find solace in the collective embrace of each other, cherishing the beautiful memories and the indelible mark left by a soul who touched our lives in myriad beautiful ways. Let us begin this service with a spirit of unity, love, and a deep sense of gratitude for the time we were privileged to share with [Name].

In the quietude of this moment, as we stand at the crossroads of sorrow and cherished memories, we come together to honor the life of [Name], a beacon of love, kindness, and resilience. As we navigate through this sea of emotions, may we find comfort in the tapestry of memories woven with threads of joy, love, and countless beautiful moments. As we commence this service, let us hold onto each other, forming a circle of love that echoes the warmth and the beautiful spirit of [Name].

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As we congregate here to bid farewell to a remarkable soul, we also gather to celebrate a life that was a true testament to courage, love, and the human spirit. [Name] lived a life rich with experiences, a life that echoed the melodies of love, joy, and camaraderie. As we begin this service, let us come together with hearts united, cherishing the laughter, the wisdom, and the love that [Name] showered upon us, making our world a brighter, warmer place.

In the infinite dance of life and death, today we gather to honor a beautiful dance, a journey that was graced with love, compassion, and a zest for life. As we stand here, amidst the whispers of the trees and the caress of the breeze, we remember [Name], a soul who embodied love in its purest form. As we commence this service, let us come together, hand in hand, heart to heart, to celebrate a life well-lived, a journey that enriched our souls with love, joy, and countless cherished moments.

Dear friends and family,

Today, as we gather to remember and honor the beautiful journey of [Name], we also come together to celebrate the legacy of love, kindness, and joy that they left behind. In this moment of reflection, let us embrace the beautiful memories, the shared laughter, and the countless moments of joy that marked [Name]'s journey on this earth. As we begin this service, let us unite our hearts in a song of gratitude, love, and eternal remembrance, paying tribute to a life that touched ours in countless beautiful ways.

Opening remarks at a funeral service should draw the audience into the shared experience of grief, acknowledgement, and remembrance. An engaging introduction might include a heartfelt welcome, an invocation or prayer, or an acknowledgment of the emotional impact of the loss. Here's a sample introduction that combines all these elements:

"Dear friends and family, we gather here today in grief and love to remember the life of [Name] and to support one another during this difficult time. As we come together, let us take a moment to offer a prayer of comfort, healing, and strength. Loving Creator, be with us as we honour the memory of our beloved [Name] and guide us in finding solace in our shared love and remembrance. We acknowledge the pain of our loss, but may we also find joy in the stories and memories we share today."

The opening remarks should briefly touch on the key themes of the funeral service, offering a gentle but clear roadmap for the event. You may include acknowledgements of the surviving family members and the legacy of the deceased, as well as any readings, songs or rituals that will take place. For example:

"Throughout this service, we will celebrate [Name]'s life, remembering the precious moments that brought laughter, love, and wisdom to all who knew them. We will hear from friends and family members who will share their heartfelt tributes and cherished memories, bringing [Name]'s values, passions, and kindness into focus. We will find solace in the beautiful music selected to honour [Name]'s memory, allowing these melodies to weave a tapestry of emotion and remembrance."

The opening remarks should be authentic and grounded in the personal details that made your loved one unique. Including a brief anecdote or a resonant quote can provide a touchstone for the audience, grounding the service in the reality of the individual's life. Here's an example:

"As we remember [Name], let us take inspiration from their favourite quote, which they carried within their heart as a personal mantra: 'Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile.' This sentiment guided [Name]'s every action, and we stand as witnesses to the countless ways in which their caring spirit touched and uplifted others. Today, let us honour [Name]'s kind heart and their devotion to making the world a better place."

In the quiet reflection that precedes bidding farewell, finding the right words can be challenging, like delicate whispers in the profound stillness of loss. Creating a eulogy that genuinely honors the essence of a spiritual leader is a sensitive task, demanding a blend of heartfelt sincerity and reverence. Eulogy Assistant is here to provide this balance, creating a space where homage is paid through eloquent and lasting memorials.

Our experienced team deeply understands these significant moments, aiding you in composing a eulogy that resonates with the graceful solemnity befitting a priest's life. Eulogy Assistant is more than a service; we are your companions in this journey, empathetically guiding you through the complex weave of memories and mourning.

Eulogy Assistant firmly believes in the power of cooperation to produce a eulogy that deeply connects. Our partnership embarks you on a path where your personal stories and reflections blend intricately with our know-how, resulting in a tribute that shines as a symbol of respect and admiration.

Our process is an intricate fusion of interactive discussions and creative collaboration, where your contributions paint the vivid picture of the priest's legacy. This joint effort not only celebrates the spiritual and service life of the priest but also the meaningful relationships he nurtured.

As your supportive allies, we assist in crafting a narrative that captures the priest's essence, a story that transcends typical commemorations, reaching a space that is as respectful and personal as it is deeply moving. Together, we transform the eulogy into an eloquent melody of words, reflecting the devotion and love the priest shared in life.

Our commitment and skill are mirrored in the heartfelt testimonials from those we've assisted. These narratives of thanks and appreciation from individuals who've found comfort in our services are our true accolades.

Johnathan reflects, "When I struggled to find words, Eulogy Assistant was my guiding light, helping me create a tribute as profound and dignified as the priest I dearly admired."

Similarly, Emily shares, " Eulogy Assistant 's sensitivity and expertise were comforting, guiding me through loss with reverence. The final eulogy was more than a speech; it was a sincere homage echoing our collective respect and love."

These testimonials are a testament to our dedication, guiding us as we continue to provide a service that elevates the ordinary, where words become messengers of love, respect, and enduring memories. It's a privileged journey for us, honoring the legacies left behind, crafting eulogies that stand as eternal tributes to lives that were profoundly cherished.

Join us in creating narratives that resonate with dignity and grace, honoring the spiritual leaders who have enriched our lives with their wisdom and kindness.

Opening remarks set the tone for the entire funeral service. They help to bring people together, fostering a sense of unity and shared remembrance. Through heartfelt opening remarks, we can create a space that is both comforting and honoring, allowing for a meaningful and touching tribute to the person who has passed away.

Crafting opening remarks that are sensitive and uplifting involves balancing the acknowledgement of loss with a celebration of the person's life. You can share cherished memories, highlight their positive qualities, and speak to the joy and love they brought into the lives of others, thereby creating a narrative that is both respectful and uplifting.

To make the opening remarks engaging, consider incorporating personal anecdotes, quotes, or poems that were dear to the person who has passed away. You might also include a moment where you invite others to reflect on their fond memories, creating a collective moment of remembrance and connection.

Absolutely, a touch of humor can bring a sense of lightness and joy to the occasion. If the person who passed away had a good sense of humor, sharing a funny story or anecdote can be a wonderful way to honor their spirit and bring smiles to the faces of those in attendance.

To make the opening remarks relatable, focus on the universal themes of love, loss, and remembrance. Sharing stories that highlight the person's kindness, generosity, or other qualities that everyone can appreciate will create a sense of connection and shared appreciation.

Making the remarks personal and heartfelt can be achieved by sharing your own memories and experiences with the person. Speak from the heart, letting your genuine affection and respect for them shine through in your words. You might also invite others to join you in sharing their memories, creating a communal space of love and remembrance.

Incorporating moments of reflection can be done by including pauses where you invite others to join you in silent remembrance. You might also include a moment where you ask everyone to recall a cherished memory they have of the person, fostering a sense of unity and shared grief.

Absolutely, quoting their favorite literary pieces can be a touching way to honor their memory. It not only adds a poetic touch to the remarks but also helps in conveying the depth of your feelings and the special place they held in your heart and the hearts of others.

While there's no fixed rule, it's generally good to keep the opening remarks concise yet meaningful, spanning around 5-7 minutes. This allows you to convey your message effectively without extending the ceremony unnecessarily, keeping the audience engaged and connected throughout.

Concluding the opening remarks gracefully can be done by expressing your gratitude for the time and memories shared with the person. You might also include a message of hope and unity, inviting others to join you in honoring their memory through acts of kindness and love, thereby creating a beautiful ripple effect of their legacy.

Yes, sharing personal memories can add a warm and touching element to the opening remarks. It helps in painting a vivid picture of the person, allowing others to see them through your eyes and perhaps finding comfort and connection in the shared memories.

Absolutely, inviting others to share their memories can create a communal atmosphere of remembrance and love. It encourages others to participate actively in the ceremony, adding depth and a personal touch to the service.

Preparing yourself to deliver the opening remarks without being overwhelmed can be achieved by practicing the speech several times beforehand. It's also helpful to have a backup person ready to step in if necessary. Remember, it's perfectly okay to show your emotions; it's a testament to the deep bond and affection you shared with the person.

In conclusion, a heartfelt and memorable funeral service begins with compelling opening remarks that set the tone for collective grieving, acknowledgement, and celebration. Crafting such remarks may seem challenging, especially during a time of grief, but help is available. The Eulogy Assistant is an innovative and intuitive software that can help you write a tailored and meaningful eulogy in minutes. By embracing this powerful tool, you can ensure that your opening remarks convey the love, respect, and honour your loved one deserves, creating a lasting tribute that will comfort all in attendance.

Now that you've explored our sample opening remarks, let the Eulogy Assistant guide you in creating a personalised, elegant, and heartfelt eulogy that captures the essence of your loved one's life and spirit. Visit our website today to discover how this exceptional tool can help you bring solace, closure, and inspiration through the power of well-chosen words.

Looking For Examples? Here Are Some of The Best Eulogies

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All the times Prince Harry has teared up in public with Meghan Markle

The duke of sussex has let his emotions show on occasion.

The British royal family are renowned for keeping a stiff upper lip, rarely showing emotion in public .

However, in recent years, we've witnessed some touching moments when the Duke of Sussex has been visibly moved in public.

It's often been for causes close to Prince Harry's heart or talking about become a father to Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet .

And in 2022, there was understandable sorrow as the royal family mourned the loss of Queen Elizabeth II.

It's not just sadness that Harry has expressed publicly – he looked genuinely touched by the crowds on his wedding day to Meghan Markle in 2018, and full of pride at the Invictus Games.

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Tears of joy

Harry appeared glassy-eyed as he and his new wife, Meghan, rode through the streets of Windsor in a carriage procession following their wedding at St George's Chapel on 19 May 2018.

WellChild Awards 2019

Harry blinked back tears as he gave an emotional address at the WellChild Awards in October 2019. The Duke has been  patron of the charity, which helps seriously ill children in the UK, since 2007

Speaking about that moment in his memoir, Spare, released in January 2023, Harry recalled: " I walked onstage, began my brief remarks, and caught sight of Meg's face. I thought back to a year ago, when she and I attended this event just weeks after taking that home pregnancy test.

"We'd been filled with hope, and worry, like all expectant parents, and now we had a healthy little boy at home. But these parents and children hadn't been so lucky.

"Gratitude and sympathy converged in my heart, and I choked up. Unable to get the words out, I held the lectern tight and leaned forward. The presenter, who'd been a friend of my mother, stepped over and gave my shoulder a rub."

Invictus Games The Hague 2022

It had been a long road to the Invictus Games in The Hague in 2022, which had to be postponed for two years amid the pandemic.

Meghan's sweet tribute to her husband almost brought Harry to tears as she introduced him on stage:

"Now it is my distinguished honour to introduce someone who I think you'll be excited to hear from. He has spent many late nights and early mornings planning for these games to make them as perfect as possible for each of you, she said.

"I could not love and respect him more and I know many of you feel the same because he is your fellow veteran having served two tours of Afghanistan, and ten years of military service and the founder of Invictus Games and the father to our two little ones, Archie and Lili. 

"This is dedication and this is the Invictus family. Please welcome to the stage my incredible husband, Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex." 

In response, an overwhelmed Harry gave his wife a kiss before replying: "Thank you, my love." 

Harry's opening speech

The Duke gave a heartwarming speech of his own, sharing the advice he had given to his son Archie.

Speaking to the Invictus Games competitors, he said: "To be role models, or the role models, that each of you are takes strength and it takes courage. When I talk to my son, Archie, about what he wants to be when he grows up, some days it’s an astronaut, other days it's a pilot – a helicopter pilot, obviously. Or Kwazii from 'Octonauts'.

"But what I remind him is, that no matter what you want to be when you grow up, it’s your character that matters most. And nothing would make his mom and me prouder than to see him have the character of what we see before us today."

Paying tribute

The Duke also looked emotional as he paid tribute to team Ukraine, who attended the Invictus Games in the Hague in April 2022 amid Russia's invasion of their nation.

"Your bravery in choosing to come and for being here tonight cannot be overstated," Harry said.

Queen Elizabeth II's funeral

Harry was seen wiping back tears as he and wife, Meghan, attended the state funeral of the Duke's grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, at Westminster Abbey 2022.

In a tribute to the late Queen days after her death, the Duke said: "Granny, while this final parting brings us great sadness, I am forever grateful for all of our first meetings – from my earliest childhood memories with you, to meeting you for the first time as my commander-in-chief, to the first moment you met my darling wife and hugged your beloved great-grandchildren."

Invictus Games Dusseldorf 2023

The Duke delivered an emotive five-minute speech at the closing ceremony for the Invictus Games Dusseldorf 2023.

In his remarks, the Duke   shared an emotional moment from his time at the Invictus 2025 tent, hosted by the Canadian team, when he spoke with Master Corporal James Gendron, with the Prince noticing a set of bagpipes in the corner of the tent.

"Some of you may know what bagpipes mean to me, so I couldn't help but hope they'd be played!" he said in the speech.

Bagpipes were a favourite instrument of the late Queen , with the Duke sharing in his memoir, Spare , that she loved to be awoken to the sound of the instrument and for them to played at mealtimes.

Harry went on to say that the instrument had a particularly poignant connection for the Master Corporal, as he shared: "Little did I know that thirty minutes later, it would be James picking them up and offering to play - yet I had NO idea what they meant to him. Nor did I know what memories they triggered for him. In Afghanistan he played 63 ramp ceremonies. For 63 caskets. For 63 souls. For 63 families.

"For four years after that last ceremony, he couldn't touch them. This week he wasn't sure whether he could bring himself to PLAY them. But he did. What had once haunted him, dare I say it, may now be what helps heal him."

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Israel and U.S. Are on Alert for Iran to Strike Back at Israel

The Israeli airstrike this week in Damascus that killed seven Iranian commanders was an unusually harsh blow, and officials say Iran is determined to respond, raising fears of a war.

By Farnaz Fassihi ,  Eric Schmitt and Ronen Bergman

Follow live updates on the Israel-Hamas war and the Middle East crisis.

Iran vowed on Friday to avenge Israel’s killing of senior commanders and other officers of its elite Quds Force, at a public funeral held for the dead men, elevating fears of open war but leaving unsaid how it would retaliate or when.

U.S. officials in Washington and the Middle East said on Friday that they were bracing for possible Iranian retaliation for the Israeli airstrike on Monday in Damascus, Syria. U.S. military forces in the region have been placed on heightened alert. Israel has also placed its military on high alert, according to an Israeli official, canceled leave for combat units, recalled some reservists to air defense units and blocked GPS signals.

Two Iranian officials who asked not to be named because they were not authorized to speak publicly said that Iran had placed all its armed forces on full high alert and that a decision had been made that Iran must respond directly to the Damascus attack to create deterrence.

“Our brave men will punish the Zionist regime,” Gen. Hossein Salami, the commander in chief of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, told the crowd in Tehran attending the funeral of the officers killed in Damascus. “We warn that no act by any enemy against our holy system will go unanswered and the art of the Iranian nation is to break the power of empires.”

The Israeli airstrike hit a building that was part of the Iranian embassy complex in Damascus, killing three generals and four other officers of the Quds Force. The force, an arm of the Revolutionary Guards, conducts military and intelligence operations outside Iran, often working closely with allies that oppose Israel and the United States, including Syria, Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas.

Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeed Iravani, said on Thursday that he would give interviews to U.S. news outlets “after Iran’s response to Israel.”

There are precedents for a forceful response by Iran. Four years ago, after the United States killed the chief of the Quds Force, Maj. Gen. Qassim Suleimani, Iran fired missiles at U.S. bases in Iraq, injuring more than 100 troops .

Though its proxy militias around the Middle East have launched a number of attacks on Israel since the war between Israel and Hamas began on Oct. 7, Iran has taken care to avoid a direct conflict that could lead to full-fledged war.

Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of Hezbollah, delivered a video speech that was broadcast in Iran and in Lebanon during the funeral, saying that a response from Iran could come any time and that “we must be prepared for all eventualities.”

“Be certain that the Iranian response to the targeting in Damascus is inevitably coming,” Mr. Nasrallah said.

In the past few months, Israel has killed at least 18 members of the Quds Force, among them four senior commanders who were veterans of Middle East wars, according to Iranian media. But the airstrike in Damascus was far out of the ordinary, both in killing so many senior figures at once and in hitting a diplomatic building, normally considered off limits in conflicts. Israeli officials said the building functioned as a Revolutionary Guards base and so was a legitimate target.

The building housed the official residence of Iran’s ambassador to Syria, who said on state television that he and his family had left the building when it was hit.

The final decision on a matter as important as a strike against Israel rests with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who is also the commander in chief of the armed forces. It was Mr. Khamenei who ordered the 2020 attack in retaliation for the killing of General Suleimani.

U.S. military analysts assess that it is more likely that Iran would strike Israel itself than that it would have its proxies attack U.S. troops in the region, including in Iraq and Syria, as they did more than 170 times in the four months after the Hamas-led Oct. 7 assault against Israel. Those attacks against American targets stopped in early February, but Pentagon officials said they were watching the situation closely.

An Israeli defense official said that Israeli analysts had reached the same conclusion, that Iran itself would attack and not act through Hezbollah, its closest militant ally, which has been engaging in regular exchanges of fire with Israeli forces since the war began.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, before a security cabinet meeting about a potential Iranian attack, said on Thursday, “We will know how to defend ourselves and we will act according to the simple principle of whoever harms us or plans to harm us — we will harm them.”

Lt. Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich, the top U.S. Air Force commander in the Middle East, told the Defense Writers Group in Washington this week: “From a military perspective, the biggest concern that I have is, does this lead to some sort of regional escalation? We’re watching very carefully, we’re listening to what the Iranians are saying in terms of how they intend to respond.”

“I do continue to assess that the Iranians are not interested in a broader regional conflict,” he added. “They want to take advantage of the crisis as it exists, but they’re not interested in war with Israel, war with the United States or war with anybody else right now.”

The funeral ceremony in Tehran on Friday coincided with the annual Quds Day rally, a show of solidarity with Palestinians held on the last Friday of Ramadan in many Muslim countries. The crowd chanted, “Death to Israel,” and “Death to America,” and waved the Palestinian flag. In videos shown on state news media, an angry crowd stomped on an effigy of Mr. Netanyahu.

The Quds Day rally, held in many cities across Iran, draws families with children and usually has a carnival-like atmosphere. But this year, the event appeared to be more somber, overshadowed by the funeral, the heightened tensions with Israel and fears that a response from Iran could start a war between the two countries.

Iran’s president, Ibrahim Raisi, and the commander in chief of the Quds Force, General Ismail Ghaani, who was dressed in black civilian clothes rather than in uniform, marched with the crowd of mourners in Tehran, state media showed. Also present were Ziyad al-Nakhaleh, the leader of the Islamic Palestinian Jihad, and Abu Fadak al-Muhammadawi the head of the Iraqi Popular Mobilization Forces, a Shia militia aligned with Iran.

The coffins of the slain Quds Force officers, draped with the flag of Iran and placed on the back of trucks adorned with flowers and green leaves, slowly snaked down a long road in downtown Tehran, where thousands of people had gathered.

The night before, the coffins were taken to the residential compound of Mr. Khamenei, the supreme leader, and laid in an open hall where he performed the Muslim prayer for the dead over them. The ayatollah typically does such honors only for very close associates and senior officials who have been declared “martyrs” because they were killed by Israel or the United States.

Leily Nikounazar contributed reporting.

Farnaz Fassihi is a reporter for The New York Times based in New York. Previously she was a senior writer and war correspondent for the Wall Street Journal for 17 years based in the Middle East. More about Farnaz Fassihi

Eric Schmitt is a national security correspondent for The Times, focusing on U.S. military affairs and counterterrorism issues overseas, topics he has reported on for more than three decades. More about Eric Schmitt

Ronen Bergman is a staff writer for The New York Times Magazine, based in Tel Aviv. His latest book is “Rise and Kill First: The Secret History of Israel’s Targeted Assassinations,” published by Random House. More about Ronen Bergman