How to Write A Eulogy

Writing a eulogy can be hard to do if you have never written one before. Most people find that they simply do not know what to do or where to begin.

Take it from me – you’ll be fine as long as you follow the KISS principle: Keep It Short and Simple. Nothing is worse than a speech that goes on for too long.

Make sure that you mention the best things that you can possibly say to highlight the life of the deceased. Think of the things that made this person an individual and what it was that allowed people to love him so easily.

While it is okay to add a small joke to lighten up the service a little, especially if the deceased had a great sense of humor, you want to make sure that you limit the joke telling. If you are telling an excessive amount of jokes you may find yourself offending some people and that is the last thing you want to do during a eulogy.

Should you tell “the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?” No, definitely not. Don’t mention the person’s bad qualities or things people couldn’t stand about him or her. A memorial service is not the time or place for such a thing.

It is also important to make sure that you do not expect too much of yourself. You are simply doing the best you can. No one can ask any more from you than that so try not to put too much pressure on yourself.

Still feeling nervous about writing a eulogy? Just sit down and start writing a draft. Keep writing until you have written all you can. Once you are finished you can go over to shorten it and make revisions. Practice reading it out loud and don’t try to memorize it. Deliver the message with sincerity and the listeners will be grateful for your courage and your comforting words.

Learn more about how to write a funeral speech or eulogy at Barbra Sundquist’s site, where you can also get a free eulogy template.