As an experienced funeral celebrant, I am able to provide helpful eulogy writing tips for family members, friends and former colleagues of the deceased. The eulogy or tribute is the part of the service where one or several people give a short speech to praise, honour or commemorate the life of a deceased person.
The eulogy does not have to be restricted to just one person; several people may pay tribute if so desired.
eulogy does not have to be restricted
One person might discuss the early years
Another person might be a business or work acquaintance who speaks about the deceased’s career
Another might be a best friend who speaks about their character
And lastly, a son, daughter or grandchild might address the love and life lessons they received from the deceased
It is worthwhile noting that If there are several speakers you may have to be strict with their time allotment - five minutes maximum each.
Some choose to read their eulogies from a prepared script while others may prefer to speak more off-the-cuff, but either way, the following tips will help you prepare.
To help you compose your eulogy, it’s often helpful to write out the basic biographical facts in chronological order. These details include:
The Facts
Where and when they were born
Names of parents and siblings
Education
Marriage and children
Career
Special accomplishments
Significant life events
"Don't cry because it's over' smile because it happened. In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years"