Writing and delivering a eulogy is never easy. It’s a moment when we must find the words to honor someone who has passed away, while offering comfort to those who are grieving. Many people struggle with what to say in a eulogy because it feels like such a heavy task. But rest assured, your words can bring healing, reflect on the life of the person, and celebrate their memory.
A good eulogy is more than just a speech; it’s an opportunity to share meaningful memories, offer comfort, and help everyone find a sense of peace. It doesn’t need to be perfect. What matters most is that it comes from the heart.
In this article, we’ll explore what you can say in a eulogy, including tips for structuring your speech and examples of meaningful words to say.
1. Start with a Heartfelt Introduction
The opening of a eulogy is important because it sets the tone for the entire speech. It’s your chance to acknowledge the grief, introduce the person’s legacy, and make a connection with the audience.
Example:
“Today, we gather to remember and celebrate the life of [Name]. They were not just a [relationship, e.g., father, sister], but a friend, a mentor, and someone who made a lasting impact on all of us.”
đź’ˇ Begin by acknowledging the loss, and then share a brief overview of the person’s life. This will help set the stage for deeper reflection.
2. Share Personal Stories and Memories
A eulogy doesn’t just list accomplishments—it should tell stories that capture the essence of the person. Personal stories help people remember the loved one not just as a figure, but as a person with unique qualities and moments.
Example:
“[Name] had a knack for making everyone laugh, even in the hardest times. I remember one of the last times we were together; they told a joke that had us all in stitches—just the way they always did.”
đź’ˇ This brings the person to life in the minds of the audience. Share funny, touching, or memorable moments that highlight their character.
3. Mention Their Key Qualities and Values
In a eulogy, it’s important to highlight the person’s core qualities, values, and passions. These traits often stand out in the memories of those who knew them best.
Example:
“[Name] was a person who always put others first. Whether it was offering a helping hand to a neighbor or listening to a friend in need, their generosity and kindness were unmatched.”
đź’ˇ Identify the qualities that made the person special and reflect on how those traits influenced the lives of others.
4. Express Gratitude and Acknowledge the Impact
A key part of a eulogy is to express thankfulness for the time shared with the person and the impact they made. It’s a way of honoring their legacy and thanking them for their contributions.
Example:
“We are all better people because we knew [Name]. Their influence touched so many lives, and we are forever grateful for the moments they gave us.”
đź’ˇ Acknowledge how their presence enriched the lives of others and the positive changes they made in the world.
5. Offer Comfort and Hope to the Grieving
A eulogy is a time to provide comfort to those who are grieving. Offer words of hope and strength during this difficult time. Many people find solace in spiritual or philosophical reflections.
Example:
“Although we mourn the loss of [Name], we can take comfort in knowing that their love will live on in all of us. We will carry their memory in our hearts, and their spirit will never fade.”
💡 Acknowledge the pain of the loss but remind everyone that the person’s memory and love will live on forever.
6. Closing with a Meaningful Farewell
The conclusion of a eulogy should offer a final, heartfelt goodbye. This can be a simple but meaningful way to end the speech with a sense of closure.
Example:
“Thank you, [Name], for all the love, wisdom, and joy you shared with us. We will miss you dearly, but we know you will always be with us in spirit.”
đź’ˇ End with a personal note that reflects your unique relationship with the person and offers a sense of peace.
7. Keep Your Eulogy Brief and Focused
While it’s important to share meaningful stories, remember that a eulogy doesn’t need to be long. Focus on quality, not quantity. People will appreciate a speech that is sincere and to the point.
Tip: Aim for a 5–10 minute speech. If you have several people speaking, coordinate so that the message doesn’t feel repetitive.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what to say in a eulogy can feel daunting, but by focusing on personal memories, their qualities, and the impact they had, you’ll be able to deliver a message that honors their life.
Don’t stress about finding the perfect words—what matters is that you speak from the heart. Your eulogy can provide comfort, preserve memories, and create a meaningful tribute to someone you love.
