A eulogy is a beautiful way to memorialize a loved one. It’s an opportunity to celebrate a person’s unique life story and share it with family and friends. This brief speech is usually delivered by someone near and dear to the deceased, such as a spouse, close friend, or family member. If you’re tasked with writing a eulogy, you may be unsure where to begin. Our experienced staff at Sunset View works closely with families in El Cerrito, Kensington, and Albany to help them honor their loved ones with a heartfelt eulogy.

 

Follow these helpful tips as you begin to write your loved one’s eulogy:

 

Ask for help when you need it.  

Whether or not you consider yourself a skillful writer, penning a eulogy can be a daunting task. There’s no reason to go it alone. If you know anyone in your life who has recently delivered a eulogy, ask them for advice and guidance. If you belong to a spiritual tradition, religious figures such as pastors or deacons are a great resource when it comes to writing a eulogy. Speaking with other individuals you know who were close to your loved one can provide perspective on their life and ensure the personal details you’re including in the speech are accurate. After completing the initial draft of your eulogy, ask for feedback as you refine what you’ve written.

 

Stay true to yourself.

A successful eulogy feels personal and authentic. When writing your loved one’s eulogy, incorporate aspects of your own personality wherever appropriate. If you naturally have a flair for the dramatic, let this inform your composition and delivery. Perhaps you lead with humor in your everyday life. If so, consider beginning the eulogy with a lighthearted story about your loved one. The more of yourself that shines through the eulogy, the more funeral attendees will connect with the content and feel closer to your loved one. In the same vein, don’t forget to briefly introduce yourself at the beginning of the eulogy, pointing out your relationship to the deceased.

 

Structure the eulogy chronologically.

One of the hardest parts of writing a eulogy is knowing how to structure the text. The easiest and most straightforward method is to compose the elements of the eulogy chronologically. Begin the eulogy with your earliest memories of the deceased. From there, highlight the most meaningful aspects of their life—from family to career to involvement in the community. In closing the eulogy, offer words of encouragement to those who are grieving.

 

If you need help writing a eulogy or planning a funeral, contact our caring staff. We are here 24/7 to support you and your family in honoring your loved one.