How to Write a Funeral Eulogy

1. Start with Prayer or Reflection

Take a quiet moment to gather your thoughts. Ask God for wisdom and strength if you’re a person of faith. Let memories rise naturally—both meaningful and even lighthearted.

2. Decide on Tone

Eulogies can be:

Honoring & respectful (focusing on legacy and impact)
Personal & warm (sharing stories and lessons)
Faith-centered (pointing to God’s promises of eternal life)

Think about what best reflects your loved one’s life and what will comfort those listening.

3. Outline the Eulogy

A simple structure works well:

Introduction – Who you are, your relationship to the loved one, and a thank-you to those gathered.
Life Story & Highlights – Key details: birth, family, career, passions, and values.
Personal Memories – A few meaningful or even lighthearted stories that show their character.
Legacy & Lessons – What they taught you (or others) through how they lived.
Closing – Words of comfort, hope, or gratitude. If faith was important, a Bible verse or prayer can be fitting.

4. Keep It Brief

Aim for 5–7 minutes (around 750–1,000 words). Enough to be meaningful without overwhelming listeners.

5. Be Honest but Kind

Focus on the good. If there were struggles, acknowledge them briefly but emphasize hope, growth, and grace.

6. Practice Reading It Aloud

You may get emotional while speaking. Practicing helps you stay steady. Bring a printed copy with large font in case emotions run high.

Sample Opening

“Good morning. My name is [Your Name], and I have the privilege of being [relationship] to [Loved One]. On behalf of our family, I want to thank each of you for being here today. Your presence means so much as we celebrate a life that touched us deeply.”

Sample Closing

“As we say goodbye, we remember that [Loved One’s name] left us a gift—[their kindness, their faith, their laughter]. Their legacy will continue in the way we live, love, and honor God. As Scripture reminds us in [verse], ‘[short verse of comfort].’ May we carry that hope with us today.”