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So, you have been asked to present a Eulogy

June 17, 2022

It is an honour to be asked but if this is the first time for you it can be hard to know where to start.


Essentially a eulogy is the story of a life.  It highlights important events, achievements, career highlights, interests, family and relationships as well as the impact the deceased had on those whose lives were touched.


Where to start?

Have a look around the house.  Are there photos, old letters, school reports, awards or holiday journals that trigger memories and ideas?

Talk to friends and family members.  Some people have written their own memoirs which can contain a treasure trove of information.  Make some notes of your memories and feelings about what they meant to you.


Where to start writing?

Start with a timeline of their life and then fill in the gaps.  Keep the dates and genealogical information brief and leave the space for their stories and memories as that is what brings a eulogy to life.  Sharing anecdotes brings humour to the story and is a great way of engaging the mourners.  Remember though, that modern funerals are live-streamed and recorded so keep it respectful and reserve some of the more salty stories for the wake afterwards.


Write out a rough draft, it can be polished up later.  Make sure it has a clear introduction and conclusion.  Time yourself reading it.  Ideally, it will be between 5-10 minutes long.


Practice reading it to family members and friends.  They may have a few suggestions.


Once you have edited it, read it through again the following day and make any final tweaks.  Print it in a large, easily readable font and keep a backup copy.


On the day

It's a good idea to have a backup plan for reading in case you are overcome with emotion.  Have a glass of water and some tissues handy as well.  Speak slowly and clearly and up close to the microphone as this is important for recording,  Look up and connect with the audience and pause if you need to.


Do contact us if you need advice on content or help with printing your eulogy

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