Giving a eulogy at a funeral
A eulogy is one of the hardest speeches to give, because it is delivered in the midst of grief. This guide helps you gather your memories into a short, personal speech and get through it even if your voice trembles.
You will need
- Notes on the life and character of the person who died
- 1–2 people close to them to ask for memories
- The speech printed in a large font
- A glass of water and a tissue at the speaker’s spot
Steps
Agree on the speech in advance
Ask the family or the organiser when in the programme the speech will be given and how long it can be. At a memorial reception, 2–4 minutes is usually suitable, so that others have time too.
Gather memories
Choose one thread
Tell a concrete story
Write the opening and the ending
Keep humour gentle
Practise out loud
Be ready for emotions
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