Eulogy examples: How to write a eulogy for a loved one

Losing a loved one is a difficult experience and writing a eulogy can be an overwhelming task. A eulogy is a speech given at a funeral that celebrates the life of the deceased. It's a way to honour the person's life, achievements and legacy.

If you're struggling to put your feelings into words, you're not alone. We've put together a list of eulogy examples and ideas to help you get started.

Eulogy template

Eulogies can vary from person to person, however there is a basic eulogy template that you can use as a starting point. It includes the most important parts that you may want to cover.

Here is a simple eulogy outline:

Introduction

Use this section to cover a few basic points, including names and a brief overview of your relationship with the person. You could also use a poem, quote or scripture to start.

Main part of the eulogy

The main section of the eulogy will be the longest. This is where you'll highlight your loved one's life including their accomplishments, fond memories, characteristics and any other details you want to share.

Summary

At the end of the eulogy, you can take the time to finish with how you want friends and family to remember your loved one. Finish with a video tribute, a song or quote and thank attendees for attending.

Eulogy for a friend

When writing a eulogy for a friend, it can be helpful to write it as if you were talking to them. Talking points that you may want to mention include how you met the person, fond memories you shared together, personality traits of the loved one and what you'll remember them by.

Eulogy ideas for Dad or Mum

Writing a eulogy for dad or mum can be a very overwhelming and tough experience. When you're grieving and trying to put emotion into words, you can get stuck. So here are few things you may like to reflect on and mention:

Share your fondest childhood memories
Life lessons you'll carry on with you
Their quirky personality traits you'll miss
How they've played a part in your life

Eulogy ideas for a grandparent

If you're asked to write the eulogy for a grandparent, here are a few talking points that we hope will make the process easier and help you include details the room will know and love.

Mention traditions they brought to the family
Their greatest accomplishments
How they influenced your life and upbringing
Funny stories and fondest memories
Short eulogy examples

Sometimes, the process of writing and presenting a eulogy can be too challenging when you're experiencing grief. If the experience becomes too much, you can write a short eulogy that highlights the most important points of that person. These might include:

Their characteristics and biggest impact on others
One or two fond memories
Their greatest accomplishment
Express your gratitude and love for the person

Can you make a eulogy funny?

Depending on your loved one and the guest at the service, you may decide it's appropriate to make parts of your eulogy light hearted. It can be a great way to honour their personality and inspire celebration of life in the room. Here are few more tips if you want to make a eulogy feel more light hearted:

Highlight the person's sense of humour and comedic qualities
Share specific jokes and memories that make you laugh or smile

Writing a eulogy can be a daunting task, however with these examples and templates, you can create a meaningful and personal tribute to honour the life of your loved one. Speak from the heart and be authentic, share meaningful memories, accomplishments and what made the person special. At the end of the day, it's about celebrating the lifeof someone special and honouring their legacy in a way that will resonate with those who knew and loved them.

Eulogy Example:

We gather here today to remember Uncle Bob, a man who was so dear to us, who touched our lives with his kindness and warmth. He lived a long and content life, and he was passionate about many things - but above all, we will all remember how much he loved his family, rugby league football and going camping.

It's hard to imagine a more simple and kind person than our Uncle Bob, and who lived a life with more grace and dignity. He showed us all how to live with humility and how to love with all our hearts. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit and love will live on forever in our memories. Rest in peace, dear friend.