It helps to have a structure when you start writing a eulogy.
The task of writing and delivering a meaningful and uplifting eulogy requires preparation. You will need to reflect and decide on the tone of the eulogy. Your role is not only to share memories of the deceased, but to celebrate their life and all they accomplished.
A good starting point is to write down the things that you remember about the deceased. Follow that by speaking to other family members and friends, work colleagues or other people who knew the deceased well, as they often have different perspectives and personal anecdotes that can provide a more insightful eulogy.
Depending on the depth of knowledge you already have of the deceased, ask about their beliefs, career, passions, interests and accomplishments, as well as biographical facts such as their birth date and place, marriages, children and surviving relatives.
Rather than starting to write immediately from the information you have collected, draft a quick structure or plan, as the eulogy needs a beginning, core and conclusion. A suggested structure is as follows –
- Introduction – ( possibly include a personal memory)
- Childhood, early life and education
- Career (possibly including a workmate anecdote)
- Hobbies and interests
- Family life and timeline
- Qualities, achievements and legacy
- Closing (possibly by using a suitable quote).
Also consider the use of poems, verses or other readings that might be appropriate to include in the eulogy.
Please see our downloadable checklist ‘Poems, Readings and Quotes’ for inspiration and suggestions.
A final suggestion is to make sure you number the pages and use a larger font, or alternatively that you write legibly.
Most importantly, write as you would speak, as if you are having a conversation with those attending about the deceased person.
