best eulogy speeches of all time

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The 16 Best Eulogies Ever Written [Famous Funeral Speeches]

Eulogies are a way of paying tribute to someone who has passed away and celebrating their life.

Unfortunately, writing and giving them can be hard.

The task of capturing the essence of a loved one who has passed, and expressing it in words to a gathering of friends and family, is a heavy responsibility.

Despite its difficulties, a eulogy is an incredibly important part of the grieving process. It provides closure, helps to preserve memories, and celebrates the life of the deceased.

On this page, we set out some our favorites; the best eulogies ever written over the years.

In This Article

16 Best Eulogies Ever Written

1. mona simpson’s eulogy for steve jobs.

Mona Simpson’s eulogy of Steve Jobs is a personal and heartfelt tribute to the late co-founder of Apple.

Mona shares their own experiences of meeting Jobs, who she ultimately discovered was her long-lost brother.

Throughout the eulogy, Mona describes how Jobs inspired her in different ways over the 27 years that she knew him. She highlights Jobs’ hard work ethic, his love for aesthetics and beauty, and his unwavering commitment to his work even in the face of setbacks.

Related Article: How To Write a Eulogy: Tips, Structure, & Examples [Guide]

Mona’s use of anecdotes and stories brings Jobs to life and makes him feel like a real human , like a friend or family member of our own, not just the legendary figure we know him as. Honestly, Mona’s admiration for Jobs’ commitment to beauty is inspiring and serves as a reminder of how much one person can impact the world.

The eulogy is a touching tribute to Jobs and a fitting farewell to one of the greatest innovators of our time.

Read the full eulogy by clicking here

Our Favorite Quote From Mona Simpson’s Eulogy for Steve Jobs

But with that will, that work ethic, that strength, there was also sweet Steve’s capacity for wonderment, the artist’s belief in the ideal, the still more beautiful later. Steve’s final words, hours earlier, were monosyllables, repeated three times. Before embarking, he’d looked at his sister Patty, then for a long time at his children, then at his life’s partner, Laurene, and then over their shoulders past them. Steve’s final words were: OH WOW. OH WOW. OH WOW.

2. Frank Oz’s Eulogy for Jim Henson

Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson , the creator of The Muppets, is a speech that praises the beloved creator and performer, and is another one of the best eulogies ever given.

Frank, who was a friend and colleague of Henson for 27 years, highlights the appreciation and joy that was at the heart of Henson’s life and work.

The eulogy captures the essence of Henson’s spirit through vivid, personal anecdotes that illustrate his love for life. The way Frank describes Henson’s love for the outdoors, his family, his colleagues, and even dessert, showcases the energy and positivity that he brought to life.

This eulogy is a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to Jim Henson.

Our Favorite Quote From Frank Oz’s Eulogy for Jim Henson

Looking here I think I only realise now how large a man this was.  This man that I just worked with and played with, and had so much fun with. And we did have fun, we had such great silly fun together. The best thing of all—the best thing—is when you watched Jim laugh until he cried.

3. Earl Spencer’s Funeral Oration for Princess Diana

Earl Spencer’s eulogy for his sister Diana is a touching and heartfelt tribute to the late princess.

Spencer does an excellent job of capturing Diana’s essence, painting a picture of a selfless, compassionate, and kind person who used her intuition and vulnerability to connect with those in need.

The speech is personal, with Spencer reminiscing about his time with Diana, and it shows the deep love and admiration he had for his sister, who died tragically.

Overall, this is a beautiful eulogy that captures the essence of Princess Diana.

Our Favorite Quote From Earl Spencer’s Eulogy for Princess Diana

There is no doubt that she was looking for a new direction in her life at this time. She talked endlessly of getting away from England, mainly because of the treatment that she received at the hands of the newspapers. I don’t think she ever understood why her genuinely good intentions were sneered at by the media, why there appeared to be a permanent quest on their behalf to bring her down. It is baffling. My own and only explanation is that genuine goodness is threatening to those at the opposite end of the moral spectrum. It is a point to remember that of all the ironies about Diana, perhaps the greatest was this – a girl given the name of the ancient goddess of hunting was, in the end, the most hunted person of the modern age. She would want us today to pledge ourselves to protecting her beloved boys William and Harry from a similar fate and I do this here Diana on your behalf. We will not allow them to suffer the anguish that used regularly to drive you to tearful despair.

4. Father Michael Duffy’s Eulogy for Father Mychal Judge

Michael Duffy’s eulogy for Mychal Judge opens with humility, acknowledging the difficulty of following the many accolades and tributes already given during the service.

Duffy then shares the impact that Father Mychal had on his own life, describing him as a true friend and a source of comfort during a time of national tragedy with 9/11.

The eulogy is full of emotion and reflects the Duffy’s deep faith, which gave him the courage to stand before the crowd and celebrate the life of his friend.

The choice of scripture from the Book of Lamentations was particularly moving and provided a reminder of the hope and renewal that can be found in the darkest of times.

Our Favorite Quote From Michael Duffy’s Eulogy for Father Mychal Judge

And so, this morning we come to bury Mike Judge’s body but not his spirit. We come to bury his mind but not his dreams. We come to bury his voice but not his message. We come to bury his hands but not his good works. We come to bury his heart but not his love. Never his love.

5. Ronald Reagan’s Eulogy for the Crew of the Space Shuttle Challenger

Ronald Reagan’s eulogy for the seven heroes who lost their lives in the Challenger shuttle tragedy is a moving one.

Reagan does an excellent job of capturing the collective grief of the nation and honoring the memory of the fallen astronauts.

I particularly appreciate the way he honors the crew’s dedication and bravery, as well as their spirit of exploration and discovery.

The reference to Sir Francis Drake and the comparison to the Challenger crew’s dedication is a powerful one.

Overall, this eulogy is a touching reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of knowledge and exploration.

Our Favorite Quote From Ronald Reagan’s Eulogy for the Crew of the Space Shuttle Challenger

The future doesn’t belong to the fainthearted; it belongs to the brave. The Challenger crew was pulling us into the future, and we’ll continue to follow them. I’ve always had great faith in and respect for our space program, and what happened today does nothing to diminish it. We don’t hide our space program.

6. Ex-Canadian PM Brian Mulroney’s Eulogy for Queen Elizabeth II

The eulogy given by former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney for Queen Elizabeth II celebrates Her Majesty’s role as a head of state and her relationship with Canada.

Mulroney speaks fondly of his time serving as the Queen’s Prime Minister and the alignment they shared on various issues, particularly Canadian unity and the Commonwealth.

He highlights the Queen’s support for the liberation of Nelson Mandela and the destruction of apartheid in South Africa. Mulroney also mentions her deep love for Canada and its diversity, geography, and history.

He concludes by recalling the Queen’s words, “I knew myself to be not only amongst friends but amongst fellow countrymen.” The perfect tribute to the Queen’s contributions and her relationship with Canada.

Our Favorite Quote From Ex-Canadian PM Brian Mulroney’s Eulogy for Queen Elizabeth II

Today, our system might appear anachronistic to some. I understand that. But to others – who constitute in my judgment the overwhelming majority of Canadians – the role of the monarchy and in particular the irreplaceable role played by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II for 70 years, was absolutely indispensable in our country’s hugely impressive, achievements and contributions to peace, prosperity and stability at home and around the world.

7. John Cleese’s Eulogy for Graham Chapman

This eulogy by John Cleese for Graham Chapman is another one of the best. A fantastic tribute to his late friend and fellow Monty Python member.

It is filled with hilarious anecdotes and memories, showcasing Chapman’s love of absurdity and shocking people.

Cleese captures the spirit of Chapman in his unique way of speaking and tells stories that are both absurd and touching.

He also reflects on the role that Chapman played in his life, both as a performer and as a friend.

It is a fitting tribute to a man who lived a life filled with humor, satire, and creativity.

Our Favorite Quote From John Cleese’s Eulogy for Graham Chapman

Graham Chapman, co-author of the ‘Parrot Sketch,’ is no more. He has ceased to be, bereft of life, he rests in peace, he has kicked the bucket, hopped the twig, bit the dust, snuffed it, breathed his last, and gone to meet the Great Head of Light Entertainment in the sky, and I guess that we’re all thinking how sad it is that a man of such talent, such capability and kindness, of such intelligence should now be so suddenly spirited away at the age of only forty-eight, before he’d achieved many of the things of which he was capable, and before he’d had enough fun.

8. Bill Clinton’s Eulogy for Richard Nixon

In Bill Clinton’s eulogy for Richard Nixon he highlighted Nixon’s humble beginnings, his journey across America, and his contributions to the country both as President and after leaving office.

He also touched on Nixon’s achievements, controversies, and his tireless spirit.

The eulogy was delivered with a genuine tone of respect, admiration, and gratitude. It was clear that Clinton had a personal relationship with Nixon and was honored to be speaking on his behalf.

The closing words of the eulogy were poignant and emphasized the importance of judging a person’s life in its entirety.

Our Favorite Quote From Bill Clinton’s Eulogy for Richard Nixon

Today is a day for his family, his friends, and his nation to remember President Nixon’s life in totality. To them, let us say, may the day of judging President Nixon on anything less than his entire life and career come to a close. May we heed his call to maintain the will and the wisdom to build on America’s greatest gift, its freedom, to lead a world full of difficulty to the just and lasting peace he dreamed of.

9. Rev. Al Sharpton’s Eulogy for Tyre Nichols

Rev. Al Sharpton’s eulogy for Tyre Nichol is a powerful and impassioned speech that connects the death of Tyre Nichol to the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

Sharpton draws a parallel between the story of Joseph in the Bible and the tragedy of Tyre’s death, painting it as another example of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.

Throughout the eulogy, Sharpton’s deep sense of injustice and his commitment to the fight for equality shine through.

He delivers a call to action for those in attendance, urging them to demand accountability and to continue the struggle for justice, using Tyre’s eulogy to ensure he did not die in vain.

Our Favorite Quote From Rev. Al Sharpton’s Eulogy for Tyre Nichols

And here we are Ashely, 55 years later, looking at the balcony where Martin Luther King shed his blood for city workers, for Black city workers to be able to work in the police department, work in sanitation. And the reason why, Mr. and Mrs, Wells, what happened to Tyre is so personal to me is that five Black men that wouldn’t have had a job in the police department – would not ever be thought of to be in the elite squad – in the city that Dr. King lost his life, not far away from that balcony, you beat a Brother to death. 

10. Barack Obama’s Eulogy for John McCain

In this eulogy for John McCain , Obama honors the late senator’s life, character, and achievements.

He highlights McCain’s patriotism and statesmanship and notes how he inspired both Bush and Obama to be better presidents.

Obama emphasizes McCain’s love of unpredictability, his disdain for self-pity, and his irreverence and sense of humor. He notes that despite their differences, McCain and he had a deep respect for one another.

Lastly, Obama highlights McCain’s commitment to upholding values that transcend politics and his belief in honest argument and the importance of our institutions.

Our Favorite Quote from Barack Obama’s Eulogy for John McCain

Today is only one day in all the days that will ever be. but what will happen in all the other days that will ever come can depend on what you do today. What better way to honor John McCain’s life of service than as best we can follow his example to prove that the willingness to get in the arena and fight for this country is not reserved for the few, it is open to all of us, and in fact it is demanded of all of us as citizens of this great republic. That’s perhaps how we honor him best, by recognizing that there are some things bigger than party or ambition or money or fame or power, that the things that are worth risking everything for, principles that are eternal, truths that are abiding. At his best, John showed us what that means. For that, we are all deeply in his debt.

11. Oprah Winfrey’s Eulogy for Rosa Parks

Oprah Winfrey’s Eulogy for Rosa Parks is a beautiful goodbye to a civil rights icon.

Her delivery is personal and emotive, which makes the speech powerful and memorable. The way she describes her childhood impression of Parks as a hundred-feet tall woman and how she later met her in person, is a great example of how Parks’ bravery and grace inspired people of all ages.

Oprah’s words are a testament to Parks’ impact on the world, and how her refusal to give up her seat on the bus changed the trajectory of so many lives.

The final message, “We shall not be moved,” is a reminder of Parks’ strength and resilience in the face of adversity.

Our Favorite Quote from Oprah Winfrey’s Eulogy for Rosa Parks

So I thank you again, Sister Rosa, for not only confronting the one white man whose seat you took, not only confronting the bus driver, not only for confronting the law, but for confronting history, a history that for 400 years said that you were not even worthy of a glance, certainly no consideration. I thank you for not moving.

12. Cher’s Eulogy for Sonny Bono

Cher’s eulogy for Sonny Bono is a heartfelt goodbye to her former partner and husband.

She speaks candidly about his impact on her life and the misconceptions people had about him.

Through her anecdotes, we get a glimpse into the person he was and the strong bond he and Cher shared.

The eulogy is both humorous and emotional, capturing the spirit of Sonny’s larger-than-life personality.

This is another one of the best eulogies ever written.

Our Favorite Quote from Cher’s Eulogy for Sonny Bono

Some people were under the misconception that Sonny was a short man, but he was heads and tails taller than anyone else. He could see above the tallest people. He had a vision of his future and just how he was going to build it.

13. Jawaharlal Nehru’s Eulogy for Mahatma Gandhi

Jawaharlal Nehru’s speech for Gandhi is another deeply affecting eulogy, reflective of the immense influence Gandhi had on India and the world.

Nehru captures the sense of grief and loss felt by many upon Gandhi’s passing, while also expressing the hope that Gandhi’s legacy would remain a guiding light for generations to come.

I appreciate the emphasis on unity and the reminder to act with poise and courage in the face of adversity.

Our Favorite Quote from Jawaharlal Nehru’s Eulogy for Mahatma Gandhi

Friends and Comrades, The light has gone out of our lives and there is darkness everywhere. I do not know what to tell you and how to say it. Our beloved leader, Bapu as we called him, the Father of the Nation, is no more.

14. Billy Crystal’s Eulogy for Muhammad Ali

Comedian Billy Crystal’s eulogy for Muhammad Ali is humorous; one of the best eulogies of all time for one of the greatest athletes of all time.

Crystal’s personal anecdotes paint a vivid picture of Ali’s impact on not just sports but society as a whole. It captures Ali’s charisma, humor, and bravery, making him more than just a boxer but a symbol of hope for those who fought for civil rights.

This eulogy is a testament to Ali’s lasting legacy and his ability to inspire future generations.

Our Favorite Quote from Billy Crystal’s Eulogy for Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali struck us in the middle of America’s darkest night, in the heart of its most threatening gathering storm. His power toppled the mighty foes and his intense light shined on America and we were able to see clearly: injustice, inequality, poverty, pride, self-realization, courage, laughter, love, joy and religious freedom for all.

15. Ex-New Zealand PM Helen Clark’s Eulogy for Sir Edmund Hillary

The eulogy for Sir Edmund Hillary by Helen Clark is a fitting tribute to the late New Zealand hero.

Beyond discussing his climb to the top of Mount Everest and how it was a defining moment of the 20th century, Clark also touches on Sir Edmund’s compassion for others. She highlighs his dedication to the wellbeing of the Sherpa people in Nepal and his numerous other endeavors.

The use of words like “colossus” and “hero” help to emphasize the magnitude of Sir Edmund’s impact, making this eulogy a heartfelt memorial for him.

Our Favorite Quote from Ex-New Zealand PM Helen Clark’s Eulogy for Sir Edmund Hillary

Sir Ed described himself as a person of modest abilities. In reality he was a colossus. He was our hero. He brought fame to our country. We admired his achievements and the great international respect in which he was held. But above all, we loved Sir Ed for what he represented – a determination to succeed against the odds, humility, an innate sense of fair play, and a tremendous sense of service to the community, at home and abroad.

16. Winston Churchill’s Eulogy for King George VI

Well known for his inspiring speeches, Winston Churchill’s eulogy for King George VI is no outlier.

It is a beautiful ode to someone who was at the time a beloved monarch.

Churchill’s words are heartfelt and evocative. He gives a vivid description of King George’s character and his influence on the people of England and the world.

What really stands out is how Churchill captures George’s attitude to life and death, depicting him as one “who walked with death as if death were a companion, an acquaintance whom he recognized and did not fear.” This is a powerful reminder to everyone to confront life’s challenges with courage.

Our Favorite Quote from Winston Churchill’s Eulogy for King George VI

For fifteen years George VI was King. Never at any moment in all the perplexities at home and abroad, in public or in private, did he fail in his duties. Well does he deserve the farewell salute of all his governments and peoples.

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79 eulogy examples.

Eulogies are pieces of writing or funeral speeches that are typically shared at a funeral or gathering for someone who has passed away. The speeches often contain a description of the person who passed away, the kind of person they were and personal memories that the person delivering the eulogy finds meaningful to share. That being said, eulogies can be fully customized to fit your writing style and needs and can come in all types of formats. Somber eulogies, eulogies filled with stories, short eulogies, and funny eulogies are all common. The best eulogy speeches are those that are written from the heart.

How to write a eulogy

Outstanding eulogies posted on ever loved, example eulogy templates, eulogy examples for a friend, eulogy examples for a father, eulogy examples for a mother, eulogy examples for a grandmother or grandfather, eulogy examples for a son, eulogy examples for a brother or sister, eulogy examples for a grandson or granddaughter, eulogy example for an infant, eulogy examples for a parent, eulogy examples for a wife, eulogy examples for a coworker, eulogy examples for various professions.

Not sure where to start? Don’t know how to write a eulogy for a mother? Friend? Sister? Grandfather? Try to relax and remember that many people don’t know how to write a eulogy, especially for someone important in their life. To start, the main parts to include in a standard eulogy are as follows:

Introduction

A brief introduction usually looks like “Thank you all for being here” or “Thank you all for coming”. You’re acknowledging the audience and thanking them for sharing this time with you and yours.

Short story

Including a short story about your loved one is customary and is usually a story that really shows their personality or what about them made them special. If you’re interested in a lighter eulogy, consider sharing a funny story. For more somber atmospheres, stories about lessons taught by the individual or a story about their achievements is a great alternative. Other popular story topics include major accomplishments, life events, the impact the person had on others, childhood memories and years, stories about traveling, marriage, family, children, or other important stories.

Favorite memories

Similar to the story, it’s not unusual to see eulogies include one or two favorite memories the person had with the deceased. These memories can be of simple or complex moments; this is up to you and what feels right.

Important quote

If your loved one had a favorite passage, verse, quote, or poem, you can include it in the eulogy itself. Alternatively, if you have a passage or quote that you feel is relevant and important to share, you can include that as well.

You can end the eulogy by summarizing the impact this person had on the lives of others and by acknowledging the family and those who chose to attend the services again. It may also feel fitting to end the eulogy with a treasured quote or passage.

Order a eulogy

If you're looking for examples of real eulogies that have been written and read by folks on Ever Loved, here are some outstanding examples. Reading through example eulogies can help inspire you and guide you when it comes time for you to prepare a eulogy.

Shannon McMasters' eulogy

Written by Stephen McMasters Shannon McMasters' eulogy, written and read by her brother, Stephen, is a beautiful testament to a woman who Stephen describes as a "shining star that burned out too soon". Shannon's life was far from easy, but reading about her perseverance, determination, and strength and hearing her brother recount meaningful moments in their life and the impact she had on him and those around her is powerful. Shannon's eulogy is an example for those who are looking to honor the struggles and difficulties their loved one dealt with while remembering other important aspects of their life. Visit Shannon's memorial website to learn more about her life.

Read Shannon's full eulogy below:

Shannon had such a big life and touched so many people, it’s hard to know where to begin. Other than our mother, Shannon was the closest person to me growing up. I was basically raised by my mom and sister. Many of my earliest memories are of the two of us, singing Disney songs together, watching The Breakfast Club on rerun, and of course, fights in the backseat of the car. Later in life, she was the cool big sister. And I wanted to be just like her. I have so many fond memories with Shannon, from the University of Florida to moving cross-country to Los Angeles and on to Atlanta. I would not have done many of these things if not for her. Shannon was my best friend. We laughed at everything together, our sense of humor was nearly identical. We bonded over music sharing two of our top three favorite bands. People even said we look alike, which I was never sure was a compliment or not. The bulk of my life was spent with Shannon; it’s hard to believe she’s gone. She was a shining star that burned out too soon. I don’t know too many people that met Shannon and didn’t have something wonderful to say about her. She truly had a gift to connect to people, understand them, make them feel special and like they mattered. I believe she got this gift from our mother who also had a knack with people. Everyone’s life was brighter having known my sister, especially mine. People think Shannon was lucky to have me, but I was lucky to have her. I know I would not be the person I am today without her. She was always positive and believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. Because of her, my dreams were bigger, my achievements were bigger, my life was bigger. Shannon was fearless in her pursuits; she accomplished so much in her short life. She graduated from UF, double-majoring in Political Science and Theatre. She then graduated from UCLA Law. She obtained degrees from both institutions while enduring bone marrow transplants. Later she went to cosmetology school at the Aveda Institute in Atlanta. I think it’s fair to say Shannon was dealt a rough hand from the start. In 1997, and again in 2004, she was diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia, an extremely rare disease in which the bone marrow quits producing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Even with a donor, chances of survival are still not 100%. Fortunately, I was a match. I was Bone Marrow Boy as Shannon liked to call me. Throughout both transplants, she had to undergo chemotherapy, hospital isolation, and months of recovery before returning to her normal life. Her oncologist declared her in remission in 2012, but she suffered from graft versus host disease, which caused numerous side effects both internally and externally. For years she took cancer-causing immunosuppressant drugs to suppress her immune system so her body would not reject my marrow. Not only did Aplastic Anemia do tremendous damage to her body, it wreaked havoc on her mind. Doctors told Shannon she would not live passed 40 and would likely be barren. I can’t imagine hearing this as an 18 year-old. Living more than half of her life with a terminal illness resulted in clinical depression and PTSD. She was also told she may develop mental disorders later in life due to her extraordinary illness. As a young adult, her way of dealing with the condition was to not be emotional or vulnerable. She dealt with her illness by pushing it aside and pursuing her academic and career goals, leading many of us to forget that she was ever sick at all. Music, painting, and dancing also played significant roles in my sister’s healing. Shannon viewed dance as therapy. In 2014, she was a research participant in one of my school projects. She tied her connection to music and dancing directly to her illness. She stated, quote, “It’s where problems don’t exist. When you’re not thinking of everything else going on in your life, therefore your anxiety is reduced. Moving and dancing to music makes you happy. You’re not feeling depressed. It’s all about the whole getting lost in the moment. That’s a lot of what Buddhist practice is, staying in the present.” My sister seemed to have found peace in those moments of presence on the dance floor. She also found peace through painting, which she spent a lot time doing the last five years. I think that’s one of the many reasons we all loved Shannon, she made us feel special every moment we were with her. We were present because we felt her presence. In the summer of 2015, Shannon had her first psychotic break. Later that year, she was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder borderline Schizoaffective Disorder. Mental illness would prove to be the battle of Shannon’s life. She really struggled those last few years. During this time, her mind was changing and she was helpless to stop or reverse it. She lost many of her close connections, not because she OR we didn’t want them, but because she was trying to navigate her new reality that included mania, paranoia, and delusions. Losing our mother in 2021 and her dogs Osa and Kiki back-to-back was just too much to handle. She was hurting and trying to survive the only way she knew how, but I know she did not want to hurt herself and what happened was an accident. She told me not too long ago that she knew she was never going to be the same again, and she hated her illness and what it had done to her. It just isn’t fair what happened to Shannon. In the end, I think she felt misunderstood and no longer accepted, and that’s what hurts the most. I think she felt alone, like she didn’t have anyone. That’s the tragedy of mental illness, not just because of what she went through, but it’s hard for us to understand and even when we try to help, relationships suffer. Unfortunately there were no easy answers or quick fixes, and I underestimated her ability to cope with her illness. The transplants may have saved her life before, I just wish I could’ve saved it again. Sometimes I feel I didn’t do enough and maybe I’ll always feel guilt for that. Shannon recently told me she prayed to God frequently to take her. I think she was ready to go. I think she has been ready for a while. She felt she had a bigger purpose beyond this place. She came into our lives briefly, laughed with us, cried with us, danced with us, made us smile, made us feel special, then left as quickly as she arrived. Maybe that was her purpose here, to have a positive impact on all of us by leaving us better than she found us. I suppose death is what makes life beautiful, knowing that our time here is finite, to make the most of it and remember what is important. Shannon reminded us of that. When she died, a part of me died too, but a part of her and our mother will always live on in me because they make up so much of who I am. While my heart is broken that she is gone and I will never see my sister again in this life, a part of me feels that she is no longer suffering and is at peace with our mother in God’s kingdom. Some birds simply aren’t meant for this world, their feathers are too bright. That’s how I’ll always remember Shannon, and God called her home to be with our mother.

Juanita Pearce's eulogy

Written by Christopher Cost Juanita Pearce's eulogy, written with love and forethought by her grandson Christopher, is a wonderful example for those who are looking for a unique way to deliver a eulogy for a loved one. Christopher gives beautiful insight into Juanita's life by describing one of his earliest memories, describing how she was throughout her life, and what kind of emotional impact she had on all those she knew. Her dedication to her family and willingness to sacrifice for the good of others is detailed throughout his tribute. Additionally, Christopher takes the time to address members of the family, a beautiful departure from the standard eulogy format that makes Juanita's eulogy incredibly heartwarming and unique. Visit Juanita's memorial website to learn more about her life.

Read Juanita's full eulogy below:

Good morning. I am Christopher, Juanita’s grandson from her daughter, Debbie. My nearly 42- year life is right about the length of the job she retired from. She made it to her 89th birthday and then some. From her birth in 1933 to her retirement was just around 60 years. I still have 18 years to get to that point. A lot can happen within that time span. Memory and Truth are funny things. My memory tells me that of all the family, I feel I may have spent the most time with her. The truth is that of all the people that have been in my life, my grandma is the one that has been the most present and participatory. One of my earliest memories of time with my grandma, which is a bit fuzzy at this point in my life, is going to work with her during a summer I was staying with her. She was a manager at Southwestern Bell and visitors had to wear a special badge. What I remember is that I was playing with the alligator clip on the badge and managed to pinch and hurt my finger. I remember my grandma and many other grandmas running to my rescue. I remember my grandma taking me to see these giant catfish that were bigger than me at the time. I remember that I was being a dumb kid and fell and hurt my wrist and she found a way to get me patched up. I still have the scar. My earlier memories may be fuzzy and even failing me, but the truth isn’t: my grandma was always there for me, no matter what. For many of you, perhaps family most of all, that knew grandma before our car accident in 2004, there may be memories of a woman with strong beliefs. You may have memories of her sharing her opinion, and perhaps even memories of some strong judgments and prejudices. For those of us that were especially close to her, we likely also have memories of her always learning and growing into a person that overcame her prejudices. What I remember is she became a woman that even with her opinions, and attitudes, and judgements, never let that get in the way of doing the right thing and rendering aide and support when it was needed. The truth is I’ve only collected two-thirds the memories that my mother and uncle can recall. Her elder sister and only surviving sibling Helen may be able to recall my grandmother’s entire lifetime as memories. The truth is memories are but glimpses and moments and no singular memory or even the collection of memories from a single person will ever adequately define an individual. A lot of you may be blessed by only the last few years of my grandma’s life. I dare say they may be some of the richest blessings you may receive. Truth be told, for as long as I have memories of her, they are made up of sacrifice and offering, one after another. Be it driving to Texas to take care of her grandchildren when my uncle and aunt had to go on a trip or an overnight drive into the mountains of Arkansas to help my mom care for me and my sisters. Or middle of the night runs to the emergency room when one of my sisters or myself had an emergency and mom needed support. No matter the reason, no matter what she was doing, my memories are of a woman who was always there for her family. These last 18 years of my grandma’s life were some of her most challenging. Yet, while she always brought her ornery and cantankerous personality, she also brought every bit of survival fight and strength of character to fill my memories with a woman who scaled an ever-increasing mountain of health and physical and mental challenges. For the 8- and one-half years I directly cared for my grandma following the accident, we tackled daily physical and occupational therapy at my parents’ house and then at the clinic until she could finally return to her own home. We later battled through a relocation to find her and me a new home that was better suited for her ongoing needs and care, to only then face breast cancer before getting into thyroid surgeries. My mother then took over for a few years on daily care before my sister Rebecca took over principal care and support in 2020, just as the pandemic hit. Most of you have your own memories of these last two or three years that I ask for you to recall as I share what I believe of the last few years of my grandma’s life. I believe the truth is that our individual and collective memories tell of a woman that continued to be there no matter what the situation was. They tell of her being a person of support, care, and growth both personally and as an example for everyone around her. And I believe that she will continue to be that person in spirit through the end of each of our lives and the lives of each life we touch. I would like now to speak directly to a some of our family that have been part of Grandma’s daily life and were crucial in the ongoing fight my grandma put up these last 18 years. Kylie, You may never understand how important you were to Grandma Juanita. You were born just ahead of our car accident that changed her life forever. By the time she came to your grandma’s and grandpa’s house for her recovery, you were a source of ongoing reason for her to keep going. I hope that you will from time to time calm your mind and heart to just let her example of love and value for family guide you as you enter your adulthood. RyLee and Lora, She didn’t play favorites often--I should know because I did spend so much time with her--but she does have a special connection with each of you. Ava, Your video calls lighted your Grandma Juanita’s day and gave her a bright smile. To Owen, You don’t understand this today, but Grandma Juanita will always be with you. You were her source of strength and inspiration to keep fighting when her life was turned upside down going from living alone to living with you, your two big sisters and brother, your mom and dad, and the dogs. It was not an easy adjustment for her, but she was able to make that transition because of you. And as your Grandma Debbie and mommy will remind you in the years to come, your partner-in-crime will always be with you, even if you cannot remember her. And, to Kaison and Gavin, the twins, You brought her fresh spirit when her life was yet again shaken with a relocation and then her stroke earlier this year. To my dad, David, Despite your own health, you found the energy to help grandma with her laundry and as always, the two of you continued to keep each other on your toes in conversation. To my brother-in-law Matthew, you helped to clean up messes and did a lot of the heavy lifting with RyLee to relocate her lifetime of things to the new house and storage. To her sister Helen, I know that having a close relationship with you, and your brothers Dillard and Dalford when they were still with us, was very important to her. And, to all of grandma’s family and friends with whom she spoke or saw, there have been so many “cooks in the kitchen,” but she was always grateful for each of you. You each played a role greater than you may know in her ability to continue bringing us blessings and love for 89 years. To my sister Rebecca, who possesses a soul of infinite compassion and caregiving, I want to thank you for the life you were able to let our grandma keep. I may have taken care of her first, but you stepped up and took care of her when she needed support and assistance that allowed her to retain her dignity and privacy in a way a grandson couldn’t provide. And, finally, to her daughter, my mother, You’ve been here as a coordinator and source of medical knowledge and wisdom that completed out and has been no less important than the direct care Rebecca and I provided. Life has thrown you one personal or family health challenge after another, and you have continuing challenges in front of you. Always remember that you too can always calm your mind and heart to allow your mom’s strength and guidance to pick you up when you’re in doubt or facing uncertainty. Death is not the end! It is merely another step we must all take. For those of faith and spirituality that believe Juanita is in Heaven with God, death on Earth is but her means to move to that eternal life. And, for all of us, her death is merely a transition to an ongoing presence on Earth for as long as we each continue to keep her memory within us and grow from her and for as long as you each keep her as part of your truth. In a few hours, some of us will go on a bit of drive to Anadarko to inter her body with her parents and two of her brothers. For as far back as I can remember, this was an annual pilgrimage over Memorial Day weekend. Each year, I can recall the same story as we would pass by Sonic on the highway. Grandma would always remind us that she grew up in a house behind that Sonic. I don’t think that specific Sonic is still there. But for any of you that join us for the burial this afternoon, as you enter Anadarko and see what looks like an old Sonic on your right, let it be a reminder of how precious memories are. For me, I will always remember my grandmother as the woman that took me to the store to get hamburger meat, go home and cook spaghetti and Ragu, spread towels on the floor in front of the TV, and watch movies while we ate on those towels. No matter what memory of her beliefs, opinions, and judgments, I will always know the truth is Grandma loved me, her family, and her friends. The truth is she wasn’t only present, she was actively participating when present. It is in great part through her example and pruning that I am the person I am today. I thank you, Grandma, for every gift and lesson and moment you gave me, and there are nearly 42 years of them to draw on. I love you and carry you with me always!

Barbara Burton Kleinert's eulogy

Written by Christine Maszkiewicz This beautiful eulogy is a wonderful example of how to interweave testament to someone's personality and character with the core occassions of their life. Barbara's eulogy is able to paint a thorough picture of what she enjoyed, what she was passionate about, how she was as a mother, her educational and career choices, and so much more. It's clear that anyone who had the privilege to listen to this eulogy (or to read it in its written form) was given a wonderful opportunity to learn deeply about who Barbara was as a mother, partner, friend, and person. To learn more about Barbara's life, visit her memorial website .

Read Barbara's full eulogy below:

Hello everyone, I am Christie Maszkiewicz, Barbara’s daughter. Today we come to honor and remember the life of Barbara Kleinert. My mother passed away four months exactly from the day my father passed away this year. We sit here in the same spot where we held his memorial back in February. It’s surreal. My family is still dealing with raw heartache from his death and now we are all feeling the pain from hers as well. They both left a void in our hearts. My brother and I are now without our dear parents. My nephews have lost both grandparents on their father’s side. It’s been a tough year so far so I want to thank you all for coming out to remember Barbara and to support this family once again while we are all trying to come to terms with such a great loss. I know many people could not make the trip to Colorado for health reasons or travel reasons. Barbara’s sister Laurie, brother Dave and niece Jenny all are here in spirit and watching online from the east coast and beyond. They wish they could be here today. They joined my brother and I and our spouses in the days leading up to my mother’s passing. We sat around her bed and talked with mom and reminisced about our time with Mom. At times I know for sure that Mom heard and reacted to what we were saying. She was surrounded with family and love in her last days and to me that is the most important thing. Love you Laurie, Dave and Jenny. Thank you, guys, for being there and for being here virtually today. My mom, Barbara was a sincere and warm person. She was a daughter, a grandchild, a niece and then a big sister. She was a close friend, a parishioner, a nurse and a teacher. She was a wife, a sister-in-law, an aunt, and a grandma. To many in her life she was a listener, a singer and a hand to hold. To me she was my mom. My mom loved to care for others throughout her life. My aunt Laurie told me one of her earliest memories was Mom, known as Barbie to Laurie, picking her up out of her crib when she was upset one night, holding and comforting her. During my mom’s childhood she grew up feeling unseen and unheard; she felt she didn’t really fit in or live up to her mother’s expectations. Her heart though was full of love, she turned those feelings of hurt into good. She reached out and helped others to make them feel seen, to make them feel heard. Her passion growing up was very much the church and music. She learned piano but found the guitar to be her instrument of choice and she used it throughout her life to bring song into a youth group or on a mission trip. When she was older, she went to nursing school to help others. Giving of herself was her calling. In her mother’s last year’s my mom was by her side and took care of her and the two eventually made peace. My mother was persistent about peace and understanding between those she loved. Mom was always involved in hobbies that helped others; she even met my dad through her volunteering activities. They met at the U.S.O. in New Jersey where she volunteered. Through her giving spirit she and my dad saw each other through some rough early years. Mom worked nights so dad could work and go to school. She juggled raising a young son while working long hours and supporting her husband. Eventually when a second child came along, she stopped working to be a stay-at-home mother and continue supporting her husband as he continued working and pursuing a Master’s Degree. My brother and I don’t have early memories of daycare, we have memories of being home with mom. Memories of being loved and cared for by her. That was a sacrifice she made, family was very important to her and I know we both appreciate the fact that our parents made that choice. When she went back into the workforce, she had to volunteer to get experience, since a Nursing degree wasn’t enough apparently. She volunteered and eventually worked in the school district with severely handicapped children. The passion she had for helping others became a lifelong career. Mom was always devoted to helping others, through her church St. Michaels in Colorado Springs, she joined the prison Ministry Kairos. I remember as a child answering the phone on weekends when mom was away on a Kairos Retreat. I very politely told the caller that mom was not here right now, she was in prison, could I take a message? My parents always got a chuckle out of that. As a child I connected with my mom’s fun spirit. She was childlike in the sense that she found wonder and beauty in the world where ever she went. She loved animals and nature. As child she had a bunny named Thumper that she adored. Later when she married my dad they acquired a pet skunk named Flower….I think we can figure out what name a pet deer may have acquired. Growing up we couldn’t have a dog or a cat since dad was allergic. With two kids and a wife wanting a critter he and mom figured out a way to make a guinea pig work with dad’s allergies. We had a spotted female named Cutie for a time and then we brought home Skeezics, a red spiky haired guinea pig. My mother had so much fun with him. We’d let him run around the living room and race down the hallway of the house. Many times mom had to help dad dismantle the huge sleeper sofa to get the guinea pig out from underneath where he was hiding. My mom would also sing various songs to the guinea pig, especially at treat time. That little pig would squeak so loudly when he heard the song….”What Shall we get for the Pig” since he knew he was getting a tasty treat. When we moved from CO to VA it was very hard on our family. Mom made sure to help us kids adjust and get involved in activities. As a horse crazy 8-year-old I wanted my own pony. The next best thing, riding lessons. My mom was at every single riding lesson camera in hand. She stood at the fence cheering me on as I learned new things like cantering or jumping. When I had my first fall she rushed to my side and as the old adage tells you, encouraged me to get back on. I’m sure as a mother that goes against many instincts to encourage a child to continue something that injured them. That next week she got me up early every morning so I could soak in a warm bath to ease my pain. In VA my mother continued with Kairos Prison missions but also got involved in Therapeutic riding for special needs children. I joined her a few times at the farm helping with the horses. She loved working with the children. They would come alive up on horseback, it relaxed them and they responded to the games mom and other volunteers played to engage the children. The smiles were just as bright on her face as they were on the children’s. My mother continued to love critters even after our family didn’t have any more pets. Our deck in the back of the house was not our deck. We didn’t have patio furniture or a hot tub out there. Nope, we had birds and squirrels lined up on every single railing eating the seeds and peanuts placed out there by mom. At night we ended up having raccoons at times. One evening there must have been 12 raccoons eating the seeds and other goodies mom fed to the critters. A special guest was Petey, a Virginia Opossum. This little critter loved noodles with BBQ sauce a specialty my mother whipped up for for her culinary delight. Mom spent hours taking photos of this sweet little creature. One day the opossum was still there in the morning and we watched her run off the deck to the underside of the front porch. She came back out with 10 babies clinging to her back and headed off into the woods. Mom made sure we all there to see it and she took pictures of the spectacle. Growing up loving animals just like my mother I didn’t have to look far to find a fuzzy or feathery friend to enjoy. My mother would often take in the birds that flew head first into the window. She would let them rest in a darkened aquarium until they came out of shock and then released them back to the woods. One such incident occurred with a little Tufted Titmouse, aptly named Tufty. He hit the window and needed help. When mom went to catch him, the little guy flew into the house and into the powder room that I was just exiting. My mom and I spent 15 minutes trying to catch that little bird to get him back outside. As I got older and moved on to college and beyond, I acquired the pets I didn’t have growing up, the fuzzy allergy triggering ones. My mother and father loved their grand-dog Spencer. He was a silly little Jack Russell Terrier. Mom never begrudged the fact that I didn’t want children of my own she accepted her four legged grandchildren. Every time I brought Spencer over you would hear the shrill voice of mom bellowing “Grand-Dog! Grand-dog”. He certainly was a spoiled grandchild. When I finally got my pony, my mother was there to meet her, happy as a clam to see me with Daenerys and to share the moment. My mother was constantly documenting our lives with photos. This was before digital photos which now everyone takes pictures of EVERYTHING. My mom invented that; out would come the camera and us kids would groan. Now we have boxes and boxes of memories to sort through that I know we will cherish as we walk down memory lane and thank her for being the shutterbug she was. Kodak stayed in business for a long time because of mom! My mother was the ever-present cheerleader and moral compass of our family. She brought a light to our lives, she often instigated fun but was also patient when we stepped out of line. Surviving my teenage years is a testament to the patience and love my mother had for her family. One hard part I’ve learned about losing someone is having to go through their belongings. Though I will state this act can shed light on memories that will warm the heart. So honestly this burden is one my brother and I are happy to take on. While looking through some books I came across a note mom wrote. She made many notes and comments in nearly every book she read. This particular note though was about parenting. She wrote that parents will make many mistakes. These mistakes shouldn’t really matter if the child knew they were loved. And mom, yes….we knew we were loved. Very much so. This year has been a hard year but with all the tragedy and difficult times we’ve had to endure, this year has been a year full of love, last moments and memories. I cherish these memories and they bring me comfort that there was so much love. I hope each of us can reflect on the memories we have of my Mom, Barbara….and that those feelings can bring us all comfort. We will love you forever Mom. We will love you forever.

Barbara Fritsche Olmanson's eulogy

Written by Leif Olmanson Written in the form of detailed descriptions of different memories Leif had with his mother, Barbara's eulogy is a perfect example of the how the accumulation of small moments woven together end up creating a beautiful landscape of a life well lived. Leif's description of each memory that he cherished with his mom is a perfect way for the reader to gain an understanding of the type of woman Barbara was and the effect she had on those around her. For those looking to share a eulogy that's built on memories, Leif's eulogy is a wonderful place to gain inspiration. To learn more about Barbara's life, visit her memorial website .

Read the full eulogy below:

Remembrances of Mom: When she was ten years old our mother was baptized at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in New Ulm, but I think one reason she chose the Church of the Holy Communion for our family was because of the beauty of the church and its history. I recall being told that the ceiling was designed to look like an upside-down ship—basically a vessel to bring the parishioners to heaven. And that the stained-glass windows came from England by sailing ships and overland by ox cart. The Dodd family grave in the back of the church evokes pioneer history. Mom had a keen interest in local history, and this Episcopal Church building is a living reminder of that history. The obituary focuses on Mom’s love of travel, especially their long trip to Burma and their service to a disadvantaged part of the world under difficult conditions. I think this was a formative experience for them—at times a trial by fire. In some ways, they must have been different people by the time they returned to resume their life in St. Peter. It was a few months after they returned to St. Peter that I (Leif) was born, and my little sister Lori followed shortly. With six kids you would think that the adventures would stop, but that was not the case. Although sometimes they traveled without the kids, often they brought all of us or some of us along. There were memorable trips to the Boundary Waters, Canada, the Black Hills, Florida, Yucatan, and the Cayman Islands. These trips instilled a sense of travel in all of us. Long after we all left home, when Mom was 70 and my sister Trudi was 40, she decided to fulfill her bucket list. It started with Trudi and Thor traveling with my parents to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Other adventures included Peru - Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca, Panama (with Trudi and Eric), Norway and Germany (with Trudi and Eric), and Trinidad and Tobago (with Trudi, Leif, and grandkids Britta and Anders) where I made the mistake of calling my parents elderly when we were inquiring about a boat trip. I was set straight by Mom right away but had reason to be concerned since the docks were in bad shape and the captain had to time the waves to get them on and offboard. There were also several trips to Mexico with each of her children and several grandchildren joining them. The most memorable trip was for Mom’s 80th Birthday where Trudi and I were with them for the entire 21-day trip and all but one of the other siblings and Anders joined for a week. We started in Puerto Morales (a great discovery and location we returned to many times for easier traveling as our parents aged) and then went to Tulum. From there we headed to Xcalak (which was one mile from Belize) and ended up staying at a scuba diver training facility which was cool since they had students from around the world and for the diving trips, we were outnumbered by diving instructors. Mom and Dad enjoyed the snorkeling and bird-watching trip. For such a small fishing village they had some great restaurants with some interesting locally sourced gourmet dishes. We were having a great time and I was using my iPod to text my brother Thor to tell him to come to Xcalak. He misunderstood my messaging and indicated he would meet us in Punta Allen. When Mom heard that we were off to meet Thor in Punta Allen. The travel books said the road from Tulum to Punta Allen was anywhere from 1 to 4 hours depending on road conditions. Well from Xcalak we had a 4-hour drive to Tulum and what turned out to be another 4 hours to Punta Allen. (This long drive was the first time I noticed signs of Alzheimer’s in my dad.) Amazing how well my mom and dad were able to cover it from us. So back to the story. It had been raining so the roads were more like small lakes than a road. With mud puddles covering most of the road and as it turns out it was the route for the adventure Jeep tours you would see if you would go on a cruise or to a big resort. So, there we are in our Jetta size car with luggage and five passengers, Anders on the hump in the back seat. Since the few people that lived on this route did not like the jeeps ripping up the road, they would put in Jeep size road bumps to slow them down. So, every time we came upon one, I would stop and have everyone get out of the car to make it over the bump. After we finally got to Punta Allen the streets were not any better since they were also flooded. We met up with Thor and his girlfriend at the time and had a wonderful time with some great food and company. The adventure continued with Schelli, and Lori joining us Back in Puerto Morelos and trips to Chichen itza to recreate childhood photographs and Ek Balam. A great and memorable trip. Other memorable occasions: Dad and Amby were working on the Ford Model As that were being used for Schelli and Amby’s Wedding parade. Right before the ceremony, Mom saw Amby and took him into the bathroom of the church and said no man would marry her daughter with greasy hands, so she helped him scrub the grease off. When she was babysitting Marty when he was 3, he helped her pick berries and make jam. When Schelli picked him up, he had dark red around his mouth, and she said “the jam must have been good”. Mom gave her a funny look and brought a washcloth over and said, I think he got into a Woodtick that fell off the dog. Picking Morel mushrooms, canoeing, her amazing cooking inspired by traveling including braunschweiger dip, kawswe, elderberry Kiekle, Burmese curry, homemade sauerkraut, and her conch ceviche Mom was always willing to go, whether it was dancing, fishing, going to the lake and tubing behind the boat, and paddle boarding at 80, and they really enjoyed garage sales. Mom was an anchor for our family. She took care of us when we were sick, fed us, taught us about nature and history, and encouraged our interests. She was the keeper of holiday traditions, adapting her more German Christmas traditions by adventurously adding her husband’s annual Norwegian delicacy: LUTEFISK. Regular Christmas guests were: Violet, Charles, and Pauline Kinson (Violet’s shrimp paste), Bernie Bornhagen (black mustard for the lutefisk), and other friends we adopted along the way. One Christmas when we all arrived Mom said they had noticed an awful smell in the house. They remembered their Springer Spaniel dog (Spike) had a dead squirrel in the yard. Sure, that she must have brought the carcass into the house they did a thorough search of the house and to their surprise, they discovered a piece of lutefisk under a chair. The dog must have grabbed it out of the bucket it was soaking in. Dad told us that he rinsed it off and put it back in the bucket. We were pretty sure he was joking. Lots of great memories and we will miss her greatly!

Juliann Therese Weimholt's eulogy

Written and read by Josef Weimholt In Juliann's eulogy, Josef does an excellent job at delivering many of the details you'd find in a eulogy in a loving, descriptive, and beautiful way. In addition to thanking the community, describing his mother's impact on those around her and her character, Josef includes a beautiful and creative tribute to his mother with additional context and pledges for what he aims to do in the future to honor his mother. To learn more about Juliann's life, visit her memorial website .

Good morning. Before I begin, I want to take the opportunity, on behalf of our entire family, to thank all of you for being here today—in person, in this beautiful, old church that our mom loved so much, or virtually—to help us celebrate our mom’s life. We’d like to thank everyone who travelled from out of state to be here today, including those on our dad’s side of the family who traveled from as far away as California. Let that sink in for a second—there are people here today who flew from warm, sunny California. To Chicago. In February. To attend the funeral of an in-law, essentially. Now, I know they came in part to support our dad in his time of grief, but I think it really speaks to the impact our mom had on people. And that’s been evident as well in the flood of messages we’ve received since Mom passed, which have come not just from close friends and family, as you’d expect, but from those who worked with her briefly decades ago, those who met her only recently—including members of the Breakers community in Edgewater, where our parents have lived the past couple of years—from friends (and friends of friends) of my sisters and mine who may have met her only once at one of our weddings years ago. So many have reached out with a kind note, a memory, a heartfelt message about how our mom affected them. As everyone here can attest, to meet Mom was to know instantly what a beautiful person she was, inside and out; a kind, caring soul; sharp, funny, and fun to be around; someone who brightened the lives of all those around her. I heard it said recently that grief is simply unexpressed love. The moral, I think, is that grief isn’t something we should avoid or try to overcome, but something we should embrace. If grief really is just a reflection of the love we feel for the person we lost, then we should hope to always feel some measure of grief for our departed loved ones. I like that sentiment; I think there’s some wisdom there, and perhaps some solace for those of us who are grieving our mom’s loss so deeply still. But it got me thinking about that notion of "unexpressed love." Unexpressed love: that was a foreign concept to Mom. Like our dad, she never missed an opportunity to tell my sisters and I how much she loved us, how proud she was of us, how happy we made her, how lucky she was to be our mom. And we always reciprocated—in person, on the phone, over text (including, in recent years, through liberal use of heart emojis in any text with Mom). Now, I don’t know whether that has lessened our grief any, but I do know that I speak for my sisters, our dad, our Aunt Mary Kay, and everyone who was on the other end of those exchanges with Mom, when I say that we are incredibly grateful for each of those moments, each of those expressions of love that my mom would simply not let go unexpressed. It was in that spirit that I set out some time ago to put down in writing exactly what my mom meant to me—an impossible task, to be sure. I regret deeply that I didn’t finish it before she passed, but I’m grateful I can share it here today with her and with all of you. I initially intended for it to be a poem, as that’s the language that she loved best, but I’m afraid I didn’t inherit her poetic voice (or talents). So I ended up with something else, I’m not sure what exactly. But I call it, “My Mother’s Son.” My Mother’s Son I knew it was coming, every time I would visit Mom at work—usually to ask for money for the movies or to pick up the car to meet friends or for some other equally important reason—never just to say hi, or ask about her day, or tell her how much I loved her. (There would always be time for that later, right?) “You must be Julie’s son!” It was probably my nose or the shape of my face; perhaps the hazel eyes or brown, curly hair. At first, I was annoyed. I didn’t want to resemble a short, middle-aged woman—beautiful though she was—and rued the fact that I didn’t inherit a chiseled jawline or muscular physique instead. So I usually just smiled sheepishly. But beyond an amusement at the resemblance, there was something else evident in their tone. “You must be Julie’s son!” The front desk staff, her fellow nurses, the doctors and residents, the custodial workers—they always made sure to tell me how much they loved working with Mom—how kind and skilled she was with patients, how supportive and generous she was with colleagues. They were quick with an anecdote or an expression of admiration. Eventually, I came to embrace the comparisons—proudly wrapping my arm around her (and sometimes giving her a playful pat on top of her head, which by then came up only to my chest) whenever a new friend, colleague, or stranger remarked on the resemblance. In her later years, as her health declined and the Parkinson’s loomed like a storm cloud growing nearer and more ominous by the day, I would reflect often on the connection I shared with my mom, on what it meant to be her son. Apart from any physical traits she may have passed down, I knew she would be leaving for her children and grandchildren something truly precious and rare. Something that couldn’t be simply inherited, but would need to be earned—brought to fruition through the countless small acts and daily decisions that make up a person’s life. Now that she has passed, and I think about the man I strive to be for my own family—for my wife, Sarah, and our daughter, Tessa, who will grow up without having truly known her Ama—I find in my mom’s legacy a clarion call, a beacon guiding my way, a pledge I must continually renew: I will be kind to friends and strangers alike—especially the less fortunate, the marginalized, and the forgotten among us. I will be generous with my time, energy, and resources, and will commit to causes greater than myself. I will laugh, loud and often. My patience will know no bounds. I will smile constantly and exude warmth so that others are uplifted even when I’m down. I will be selfless and unfailingly loyal. I will not swoon at the sight of blood, but will swoon over a mariachi band (or really any live music). I will create. I will nurture. I will dance with enthusiasm. I will be open to all things, and constantly seek out new adventures, foods, cultures, and people. I will find happiness in the simple things, and peace in nature. When my health fails me or curveballs inevitably come my way, I will put on a brave face to spare my loved ones their worry, and will fight with a strength and tenacity that will make them proud. I will laugh some more, through everything. I will be grateful for all that I have been given. I will love, and be loved, and the world will be a richer, better place for my having been here. I will, I pray, truly and forever be my mother’s son.

Richard "Dick" Floyd Messalle's memorial speech

Written and read by Renee Messalle In this memorial speech, there are plenty references to memories, passions, hobbies, and delights that Richard took part in during his time. These references help paint a loving and broad picture of what Richard's life was like and the kind of person he was. In addition to the personal stories shared, Renee also includes a beautiful poem at the start which kicks off the metaphor of the Train of Life for the rest of the memorial speech. To learn more about Richard's life, visit his memorial website .

Welcome everyone. Thank you so much for coming today. Carl and I wanted to share a few memories about our Dad before the service started. I wanted to start off by reading this lovely poem that I saw recently. Train of Life At birth, we boarded the train of life and met our parents, and we believed that they would always travel by our side. However, at some station, our parents would step down from the train, leaving us on life's journey alone. As time goes by, some significant people will board the train: siblings, other children, friends, and even the love of our life. Many will step down and leave a permanent vacuum. Others will go so unnoticed that we won't realize that they vacated their seats! This train ride has been a mixture of joy, sorrow, fantasy, expectations, hellos, goodbyes, and farewells. A successful journey consists of having a good relationship with all passengers, requiring that we give the best of ourselves. The mystery that prevails is that we do not know at which station we ourselves will step down. Thus, we must try to travel along the track of life in the best possible way -- loving, forgiving, giving, and sharing. When the time comes for us to step down and leave our seat empty -- we should leave behind beautiful memories for those who continue to travel on the train of life. And let’s remember to thank our God for giving us life to participate in this wonderful train ride. I am so glad that I was on my Dad’s train for 51 years. And thanks to those that joined the train at one time or another. His stop and his step down was so very unexpected for us – but he left so many great memories, and we are so grateful he stepped off on a high note! We have all loved hearing what others thought of my Dad – and am so happy that it was what we knew of him. The prevailing theme – he was such a kind and gentle and smart person. And several people said he was a “Renaissance Man”. And I totally agree – he loved to learn and knew a lot about everything. He was so happy in his recent move to Greenspring where he had a big office surrounded by at least 1,000 of his books, all in one room. And most importantly my Dad loved math and data. He had a bachelor and master’s degree in Math. He worked for the Navy using his math skills. And in going through things in his office – we saw that my Dad doodled math everywhere. And he did at least a sudoku a day. I have great memories of him helping us as kids with homework, which he enthusiastically did, and especially of course with math. My high school friends even fondly remember his tutoring us in math. After retirement, he even spent many years tutoring various students – even his grandsons. Just recently he helped Brandon and me with some math homework and sent us detailed descriptions and steps to help us. And he was still the volunteer Treasurer for the Four Corners neighborhood association, which he had been doing for many years. After grad school with his advanced degree in Mathematics, he met my Mom on their first day of work at US Navy, David Taylor Model Basin as they were both trying to find the math lab! My Mom worked there until I was born. And then, when I was looking for a summer job in college, I decided to apply where my Dad worked. This turned out to be the start of my government career as well, and I eventually worked in the same Directorate with my Dad for the summers and then for 7 years after college. It was a great chance for us to know and see each other in different ways, learn what my Dad did at work, have similar co-workers, etc. After my Dad retired, he had so much fun taking liberal art classes at the community college. He also loved going to see plays with my Mom, so they both ushered at various local theaters for over 30 years. And he even directed and acted in some community theater plays. Despite my Dad’s quiet demeanor – he definitely had had a wild and adventurous side …. He loved rollercoasters. Even as recent as about 5- 10 years ago, he was still going on roller coasters and rides at Disney and Universal with my husband and niece and Brandon, and even on the water slides at the water parks. When we were younger, he took us on a hot air balloon ride. He loved to bike – biked to work, biked with friends, biked long distance rides of 100 miles, and biked as a family. He did Hang gliding for a while – and even bought one. I remember playing in fields while my Dad would hang glide off of small hills. He even bought a Unicycle. He also loved science fiction, and he introduced us to Star Wars as kids. And I was able to take my parents to the new Disney Star Wars theme park in February, right before Covid. And I just took him to the movie theater at Thanksgiving to see the new Dune movie, which he loved. My Dad was always around and involved when we were younger. We always had family dinners, he made breakfast every Sunday (where I was introduced to and then loved scrapple), he washed the dishes every night for my Mom, and was always willing and around to assist us with our school and homework. And then he continued to be present and involved in my life as a grandfather to Brandon, especially since we lived somewhat close by. He set such a great example for me of what a father and what a spouse should be. And I am so happy that he met the love of his life, and that he and my Mom had such a wonderful marriage of 53 years – best friends - truly soul mates. In summary, my Dad had a fun life on that train for 79 years, sharing 55 of those years (70% of his life) with my Mom! He left many great memories for me and for others. Thanks Dad – I love you and you will be missed.

Following you will find some eulogy examples, with most of them being short eulogy examples. Shorter eulogies can become longer simply by adding in stories and memories that you hold dear or different aspects of your loved one’s life you’d like to share.

Thank you all for being here today. I’m honored to share this time with [Name]’s friends, family, and others in remembering [his/her] life.

I met [Name] [number] years ago at [description of meeting location]. I immediately liked [Name]’s [sense of humor / personality / presence] and knew we would make fast friends. Once, when we were [description of memory], [Name] turned to me and said “[Quote]”.

[Longer description of memory]

After we met, I [description of life after meeting person] and [he/she] went on to [description of what they did]. When [Name] met [spouse], everything changed. [He/she] became [description] and was one of the best [husbands/wives/fathers/mothers] a family could ask for.

I know I’ll always miss my best friend and that no one can replace [him/her]. With that, I’d like to leave you all with one of [Name]’s favorite quotes, by [author]: “[quote]”. Thank you.

[Name] was my best friend, confidante, partner in crime, and one of the best people I’ve ever had the honor to know. I first met [Name] in [location] and we quickly became fast friends. We shared a love of [hobby] and a desire to [description], something that very few others connected with me on.

[Name] taught me a lot about [description], something I will never take for granted. Our other friends refer to [Name] and describe [him/her] as [description]. What I know for certain is that anyone who knew [Name], knew how [brave/special/funny/kind/unique] they were. You don’t meet someone like that every day.

One of my most cherished memories with [Name] was the time we [description]. If not that, then it’s definitely the time we [description].

I want to thank you all for gathering today in honor of [Name], I know it would’ve meant the world to [him/her]. Let’s honor [his/her] memory by continuing to spread love in this world and to try our best each and every day. Thank you.

For those who don't know me, [Name] and I have been friends for practically our entire lives. We grow up in [town] together, lived down the street from one another, and went to the same schools from elementary to high school. We planned on going to the same college together (but [Name] was smarter than I and got into some schools I didn't). We weren't just friends, we were [brothers/sisters].

When I was younger, [Name] used to take me to [area]. We'd play [game] and sit out in the field, talking about [subject] for hours on end. [Name] was there for my life's most important events. [He/she] was there for [list out important life events] and always remembered my birthday and other important anniversaries. [He/she] was beyond thoughtful -- [he/she] was one of the kindest and most compassionate people I've ever met and will ever meet.

Losing [Name] is akin to losing a family member. [He/she] is irreplaceable and their loss is felt deeply, more than words can ever describe. At the same time, I know [Name] would hate it if they saw me up here crying, talking only about their loss and ignoring all the wonderful things [he/she] did with their precious time here on Earth. So, I'd like to take this time, to thank [Name] for everything [he/she] taught me: [list out lessons or important takeaways]

Let's honor [Name's] memory today (and all days) by being kind to one another and remembering the struggles that we all have to face during our time here.

Joie and I met before we were born -- our mothers were in the same prenatal group and bonded over their hatred of the lack of sushi in their lives. We were born only a few days apart, spent our first years of life held by each other's moms and had almost no chance in not becoming great friends. Little did our moms know -- they'd given us more than friendship when they became friends. They'd made us family -- sisters.

Both of our families had decided to only have one child, so Joie and I filled the void that every only-child experiences. She was my sister, through and through. I was there for every one of her life's major accomplishments (and letdowns). She returned the favor in kind. Joie was my support through my first relationship, my first heartbreak, my first degree, my first marriage (and second!) and my first child. I was there for so many of her firsts, seconds, and thirds in life. That's the kind of person Joie was. Supportive. Constant. Foundational. She was my rock and the rock for so many people around her.

Even in death, Joie knew we'd be lost without her support. Her husband, Robbie, is constantly finding small notes that Joie left behind, just little reminders that she still cares for him and is supporting him, despite this complication we call existence. Two days after Joie was diagnosed with cancer, she gave me a call. She told me to sit down and to get ready for the "shit to hit the fan". I thought it was just another rant about her job or some stupid thing she saw at the store or a 30 minute monologue on the downfall of American reality TV.

When she told me she had cancer, I nearly passed out. But she explained to me that now, more than ever, she needed me to be the strong one. Not just for her, but for her husband, for her family, and for myself. She told me not to embarass her in this eulogy, so I'll restrain myself from doing that by going over the top. Please just know, if you're here today, you meant something to Joie. If you're here today, you matter and are important. If you're here today, please honor Joie's memory by being the rock for someone else in your life.

Joie, I love you so, so much. I can't wait to see you again.

Thank you all for being here today. I’m honored to share this time with our friends, family and community and join in remembering [Name]'s life and ongoing legacy.

I met [Name] at [location] around [number] years ago and instantly knew we'd become lifelong friends.

We spent all our time during that summer [description of activities] and the following years were spent periodically visiting [location] and inviting friends out for our annual [description of trip].

[Name] was the kind of person who you never forget. [He/she] was [describe personality]. [He/she] instantly made people feel like [description]. [He/she] was endlessly [selfless, loving, caring, etc.].

I know this loss is one that runs deep for many of us gathered here today, but I also know that [Name] wouldn't want us to sit around mourning [his/her] loss and instead would want us to look towards the future and think on what we can do to make this world a better place.

In [his/her] memory, let's try our best.

For those who don't know me, [Name] was my childhood best friend. We met when we were [age] and instantly connected. We bonded over [subjects], we spent summers at [location] and I could almost always be found at [his/her] house on the weekends. I spent so much time at [Name]'s house that I was known as [his/her] [brother/sister], even by [his/her] parents own admission.

A lifelong friendship is incredibly hard to find and even harder to live without once you've experienced it. To say that this loss is hard is an understatement. [Name] was one of the [describe personality] people I've ever met. [He/she] was unique. [He/she] was hilarious. [He/she] was irreplaceable.

For all those that are gathered with me today, I ask that you join me in honoring [Name]'s life by practicing the values they held so dear. Be kind, be loving, enjoy life, and live life slowly.

Before I get started, I wanted to thank each and every one of you for showing up to honor and remember the incredible life of [Name]. If you knew [Name] (which, if you didn't, why are you here?), you know how magnetic they truly were. Standing up here with only a few minutes to speak on how amazing they were and what they meant to me feels impossible. How can I describe [Name] in a way that's accurate? How can I sum up the impact they had on me, on those around them, on the field of [career field], on the world? It's a near impossible task, so I decided to list out the top 10 things I appreciated most about [Name]. I plan on integrating these top 10 things into the way I treat others as a way of honoring their memory.

Things I learned from [Name]:

Thank you for joining me and listening to me today. I hope you take some of these values and ways of being with you.

Memories of [Name]

Instead of a standard eulogy, I wanted to use this time to share some of my most cherished memories of [Name]. These are ones I've picked out intentionally as I feel they best represent the type of person [Name] was, at least to me. While not all of these memories are ""positive"", they are the ones that have stuck with me the most.

[List memories]

We are gathered here today to celebrate the life of a remarkable young man, who was taken from us far too soon. [Name] was a 25-year-old Marine, who loved hunting, woodworking, and theater. He had a stoic, but kind personality that drew people to him, and he had a deep passion for nature, exploration, and family.

[Name] was a skilled hunter, who spent many hours in the woods, quietly observing the world around him. He had a deep respect for nature and all of its creatures, and he loved nothing more than being out in the wilderness, breathing in the fresh air, and feeling the sun on his face.

In addition to his love for hunting, [Name] was also a talented woodworker, who enjoyed creating beautiful objects out of wood. He had an eye for detail and a steady hand, and his creations were always stunningly beautiful.

But perhaps most of all, [Name] loved theater. He was a gifted actor, who had a way of bringing his characters to life, and he had a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling. He loved nothing more than being on stage, basking in the spotlight, and entertaining his audience.

Throughout all of his endeavors, [Name] was guided by his dedication to his family. He was a loyal son, a devoted brother, and a loving friend, who always put the needs of others before his own. He had a heart of gold, and he never hesitated to lend a helping hand or a listening ear to those in need.

[Name] was a remarkable young man, who touched the lives of all those who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those he loved. Rest in peace, [Name]. You will always be remembered.

First, I want to thank everyone here for showing up today. It means a lot.

Losing my dad is one of the most difficult hardships I’ve ever had to go through. That being said, this process has made me realize just how lucky I was to have a father like [Name]. Without his example, encouragement, advice, and love, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. I am eternally grateful for his life as an example for how I should live my own.

My dad was difficult to sum up in a few words, but some that come to mind are: [hardworking/gentle/loving/caring/strong/hilarious/funny/serious/crafty/intelligent]. When I was younger, we’d spend time [description of memory]. That’s where I first learned to [description of skill].

I remember once when I was younger, we [description of memory].

Dad, you will never be forgotten. Our family is eternally lucky to have had you as the head of our family. We will honor your memory by [way you’re going to honor memory].

Thank you all for coming today.

Growing up, my father was always [description of attitude / personality]. My friends would always say that he was [description of friends’ thoughts]. His coworkers would describe him as [description]. But to me, he was just my dad.

One of my favorite memories with him is when we [memory description].

Another time, we went to [memory description].

Those are the times that I keep in mind whenever I think of my dad, some of the best times of my life. It’s impossible to describe the amount of love I hold in my heart for my father, so I’ll leave it to someone else to describe for me. In the words of [author name], “[Quote]”.

Hello, everyone. Before I get started, I just wanted to acknowledge everyone's presence today. It means so much to me and to my family that you decided to be here with us today to remember my father's life. I know he's smiling on us from above and is absolutely thrilled that so many of you showed up today to remember him.

My dad is impossible to sum up -- we'd be here all day if I had the opportunity to share with you all all the wonderful things he did, taught, and accomplished in his life. To spare you all from that (and to shield you from watching me cry for a few hours) I've decided to restrict this to a short list of some of my favorite qualities of my dad. Without further ado, here's the things that made my dad the man he was:

• My dad taught me and my brothers the meaning of what is was to be a man.
• He was compassionate and kind, funny yet stoic, bubbly yet reserved, and quietly bonded our family together through difficult storms and joyful moments.
• He was the BEST on the grill and 5 year winner of the Best Chili award at our annual chili cookoff.
• He hated the Patriots, with a passion.
• He'd sneak out in the middle of the night when we were younger to take us to midnight premiers of our favorite movies -- much to Mom's dismay.
• He once drove over 500 miles to help me move out from an ex's apartment -- again, in the middle of the night.
• He was known by my entire group of friends as "The Cool Dad".
• Even during his last months, he was ensuring me and my brothers knew what to expect, knew what was coming, and what our responsibilities to each other were.
• His family was the most important thing in his life.
• My mom was the love of his life and never failed to put a twinkle in his eye.

My dad is the reason I am the person I am today. He was endlessly encouraging, loving, caring, and intelligent. To lose him is to lose a piece of who I am, though I know he's with me in spirit. Thank you once again for showing up to support our family and remember this great man.

[Author] once said, "[Inspirational quote]". Little did he know, this quote would go on to be the foundation of my father's life.

While most knew my dad as a [descriptor] person, those closest to him knew him for his [kindness, bravery, love, caring, tenderness, softness, etc]. A man of few words and many talents, my father spent much of his life in [work / career description] and caring for [his children/family/wife/etc.]. His greatest love in life was [Name] and his favorite pasttime was [pasttime]. Not a day goes by that I don't think of him and not a day goes by that I'm certain the world is worse off without him in it. Losing my dad has taught me two things: [list lessons]

Thank you all for joining me, please tell your parents how much they mean to you and please do kindness, wherever you can.

My father was not an easy man. He was someone who hated the idea of small talk, celebrated people who worked hard (but knew when to take a break), and would be more than happy if no one talked to him for months, leaving him to read through his favorite detective novels.

His life could also not be described as easy. My father grew up poor, he lost his own father at the young age of 8 and had a mother who could be described as absent (at best). His youth was spent attempting to make ends meet through illegal jobs he held while attending school. He ended up dropping out of highschool in order to pursue a job as a dishwasher and support himself.

It was at this point that he met my mother, who seemed to be one of the only people on the planet who could charm my dad. He described her as "The first sense of relief I felt on this earth." and would refer to her as the love of his life for the rest of his life. He did his best to shield me and my brothers from the harsh upbringing he endured. He pushed us to attend college, he pushed us to stay in school, and he pushed us to cherish those in our family -- something he never had.

He worked hard to get to where he was and without a doubt, could be described as a successful man. My father was resilient, generous, and reserved. Though he was a man of few words, he made sure that my brother and I knew we were important, were loved, and were cherished.

I love you Dad and I hope you rest easy. You did a wonderful job.

Lessons from [Name]

Instead of delivering a 20 minute eulogy on my father, that I know he would've hated, I've instead decided to share some of the lessons he taught that could go on to help others. These are lessons that have helped me navigate this life and are lessons I'll cling to now that he's gone. If they resonate with you, please feel free to take them for your own. I love you, Dad.

[List lessons]

My father laid the foundation for my life as a man. He took the lessons his father taught him (rather harshly), picked them up, brushed them off, and buffed them, turning them into the lessons he shared with me (much less harshly than his father did). He was patient. He was kind. He was handy. He was incredibly intelligent and well-spoken, yet preferred to let others speak. If there was a party, you'd often find him on the balcony, in the backyard, or in a corner somewhere, people watching and smiling kindly at anyone who wandered near him. He preferred learning above all else and would most often be seen in his study, with ten different books at varying stages of being read. I owe my father everything and I credit my success in life to the way he raised me, each and every day. To lose him, means to lose a piece of myself. Dad, I love you.

To say my dad meant the world to me is an understatement. A man of few words, and even fewer faults -- he was the stoic figure in my life, the foundation that stayed true no matter what was thrown at him, and the reason I became the woman I am today. I learned to let things go, to love people who loved me back, to befriend those without, and to stay close to those who mattered. My dad meant everything to me, and more. Rest in peace, Dad.

We all dream of having a mother who is kind, loving, and genuine. [Name] was exactly that type of mother. She guided us through years and years and years of hardship, difficulty, joy, and achievement. Our mother was the foundation of our family and without her, it’s difficult to know what to do or what comes next.

I’ll miss her [laugh/smile/generosity/humor/jokes/other descriptor], but am lost without her [guidance/thoughts/advice/other descriptor]. I know we’ll all miss her [insert personality trait or something she was known for].

One of my absolute favorite moments was when my mom [description of memory].

Another one of our family's favorite memories with [Name] was when she [description of memory].

Thank you all for showing up today to honor my mother’s memory and legacy. I know it would’ve warmed her heart to see you all here and I appreciate it greatly. In the words of my mother, “[quote]”

It is an impossible feat to sum up the importance that one’s mother has in one’s life, so I’d like to instead, share some of my favorite memories that I had with my mother. Before I start, let me give you a breakdown of the type of woman my mom was. [Name] was [hardworking/intelligent/ferocious/hilarious/kind/gentle/etc.]. She was always [description] and she never [description]. Her top three favorite things were: [name three things]. One of my favorite memories with my mom was the time we [description]. This is followed closely by the time we [description]. Her [smile/laugh/voice] would light up a room and bring joy to those around her. Her presence was deeply felt and her loss is almost too much to bear. So thank you to everyone who decided to come here today, it means the world to me. One of my mom’s favorite quotes is from [name of author]. It reads, “[quote]”. I’d like to leave you with that today as we celebrate my mother. Thank you.

Thank you for joining me today as I navigate the impossible task of summing up the life of someone incredible, in only a few minutes.

I guess I'll start by sharing one of my favorite moments with [Name]. I was [age] and had just [descriptor]. My mom took me to [location], one of my favorite spots. We had just gone to [location] the previous year, so this was a nice change. We spent the day [descriptor], working on [descriptor] and eating [food]. At night, we [description] and met with [people you met with].

Nights like this weren't uncommon with Mom -- she constantly made sure we had the most fun possible whenever we could. Her free time was spent supporting us, cheerleading for us, driving us to various activities, picking us up, hosting sleepovers, paying for our (many) mistakes, and being known to all as "the best Mom". My friends have all insisted I was blessed with her as my mom, and I know this to be true.

Today, I want us to join together to remember that. To remember the kind of woman she was and the kind of person she taught me and everyone who knew her to be. A woman of joy, light, kindness and warmth. A woman of love and positivity and a ray of sunshine that will be so desperately missed from this world. Mom -- I love you.

To my mother,

I miss you so much. You were the glue that held our family together. You were always there for me when I needed you. I am so grateful to have had you in my life.

You were an amazing woman and an even better mother. I will never forget all the things you taught me. I will never forget your unconditional love and support.

I know you are in a better place now, but I still wish you were here with us. I know that we will see each other again one day, but until then, I will cherish all of our memories together.

I love you, mom.

My mother was the most incredible woman I have ever known. She always supported me in everything that I did, and she was my biggest cheerleader. I know that she is up there looking down on me now, watching over me and guiding me as I navigate through life without her by my side.

Although my mother is no longer with us in this life, I know that she lives on in the memories that I have of her, and the love and support that she gave me throughout my life. She was strong, kind, and warmhearted, and I will always treasure the time we spent together.

I know that it is difficult to lose someone so important to you, but my mother's memory will live on forever in my heart. In her honor, I plan to spend the rest of my days living a life full of kindness and compassion, just as she did. She will never be forgotten.

I am so grateful to have had such an amazing mom, and I know that I will never be able to forget all of the wonderful things she taught me throughout my life. We will cherish all of the amazing memories we have of her until we meet again someday.

Hello all. Before I get started, I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has decided to join us today (and even those who reached out and mentioned they couldn't make it). We're gathered in this beautiful location to celebrate my mom's life. For all of those who decided to travel long distances, who reached out to us during our time of need, and who took the time to help us get this set up -- you have no idea how much this has meant to our family.

What's been most clear to me during this difficult time is simply the staggering amount of people my mom influenced, cared for, and loved. So many folks, even those she hasn't seen in over a decade, have written in and let us know the impact she had on their lives. To say she made you feel loved, seen, and appreciated at all times was an understatement. She was the pillar of our family, a pillar of her community, and would take each and every opportunity available to her to make those around her feel supported and seen.

This has been one of the hardest times our family has gone through and I'm so warmed to know all these bright and smiling faces here today. Thanks for coming to honor my mom.

To lose a mother is to lose a piece of your soul. My mother was no exception. Some would say our relationship was too close and my father used to warn me against "relying" on her too much, since he was trying to protect me from this exact day. My mom was the center of my life and without her, I feel lost. I'm angry, I'm confused, and I miss her so, so, very much. I want to ask each and everyone one of you visiting today, who took the time out of your busy schedules to show your support to my family -- please huge your parents. Please resolve any unresolved issues you currently have, if you love them -- none of it matters. Once you don't have the opportunity to make amends, it feels like everything was so silly. Mom, I miss you, I love you, and I'm lost without you.

Friends and family, today we gather to remember and honor the remarkable life of a woman who truly made a difference in this world. She was a devoted mother, a compassionate humanitarian, and an inspiration to all who knew her.

As we heard from her obituary, this incredible woman faced immense tragedy at a young age, losing her husband in a tragic accident. But instead of giving up, she channeled her grief into a powerful force for good. She joined the Peace Corps, dedicating her life to helping those in need in underdeveloped countries around the world. Her commitment to service was unwavering, and she spent years traveling the world, spreading love and kindness wherever she went.

But she was not only a humanitarian. She was a devoted mother to her son, who was her greatest joy in life. She instilled in him the values of kindness and compassion, and he is a testament to her incredible parenting.

Though we mourn her loss, we can take comfort in knowing that her legacy lives on. She touched so many lives with her kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to making the world a better place. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will always be a source of inspiration for us all. Rest in peace, dear friend.

Today, we gather to honor the life and legacy of Chef Kimmino, a beloved chef who has left us too soon. Chef Kimmino was a true culinary artist, whose passion and creativity inspired all who had the pleasure of experiencing their dishes.

Sadly, Chef Kimmino's battle with breast cancer came to an end at the age of 45. But let us not mourn their passing. Instead, let us celebrate the life they lived and the joy they brought to countless individuals through their delicious and unforgettable meals.

Chef Kimmino was a true master of their craft, always experimenting with new flavors and techniques to create dishes that were both innovative and mouth-watering. Their culinary creations were a reflection of their adventurous spirit, and they were never afraid to push the boundaries of traditional cooking.

But Chef Kimmino's impact went beyond their culinary talents. They were a mentor and inspiration to many aspiring chefs, always encouraging them to pursue their passion and follow their dreams. They were also a philanthropist, using their talents to give back to the community by donating their time and resources to various charities and organizations.

Chef Kimmino's passing is a great loss to the culinary world and to all who knew and loved them. But we can take comfort in knowing that their legacy will live on through the countless lives they touched with their passion and generosity.

So let us honor Chef Kimmino's memory by continuing to share their love of food and cooking with others. Let us keep their spirit alive by embracing their adventurous approach to life and always striving for excellence in all that we do.

Rest in peace, Chef Kimmino. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

We’ve all heard the heartwarming stories many have about just how great their [grandmother/grandfather] was, but I’m here to tell you today that mine was the best. Our [grandma/grandpa], [Name] was such a classic [grandma/grandpa] that it’s almost too difficult to believe. [She/He] was the best at [baking/cooking/fixing things/trips/parties/crafts/giving advice/etc]. [She/He] made the most amazing [food/hobby]. [She/He] also was a part of many clubs, including [list of clubs]. Loved by everyone around [him/her], [name] was the star of the show from the very beginning. When [she/he] was young, [she/he] participated in [activity]. As [she/he] grew older, [she/he] became a fan of [description of hobby/interest]. As [her/his] grandchildren, we were lucky enough to spend time with [him/her] doing [description of time spent]. Now that [she’s/he’s] gone, a hole is left in our hearts and in our souls, but we know we will see [her/him] again soon. One of [name]’s favorite passages was, “[passage]”. I think that sums up who [she/he] was quite well. Thank you all for being here today and I know that [Name] would’ve been in tears just seeing all of you who loved and cared for [her/him] show up for [her/him] today.

My [grandmother/grandfather] was one of those women who [description]. [She’s/He’s] incredibly difficult to sum up in just a few words so I’ll do my best. To start with, my [grandmother/grandfather] was most known for [his/her] [description of something they were known for]. Every single person who came into contact with [her/him] would tell me stories about how [he/she] would [story] and [story].

My favorite memory with [her/him] was the time we went to [description of memory].

I’ll always remember [her/him] as a [loving/caring/kind/gentle/wise/intelligent/hilarious] soul who would try [her/his] best each and every day to put a smile on the faces of others.

For those of you who knew my [grandmother/grandfather], you knew just how special and important [she/he] was to our family. I thank you all for spending time with us here today in honor of [her/him] and the person [she/he] was.

My grandmother was an amazing woman. She was always so kind and loving, and I will never forget all of the wonderful moments we shared together. I am so grateful to have had her in my life, and I know that she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She was a strong and independent woman, who always put others first. She was always there for me when I needed her, and she was such an important part of my life. I know that she is now at peace, and I take comfort in knowing that she will always be with me in spirit.

Those who knew her, knew how much she loved her family, and she was always so proud of us. She was the heart of our family, and we will never be the same without her. We will cherish all of the memories we have of her, and keep her in our hearts always.

Thank you for everything, Grandma. I love you so much.

My grandmother was one of the most influential people in my life and the lives of so many others. Never one to back down from a fight, she spent almost her entire life dedicated to trying to improve our system, to the best of her ability.

Whether this was through community service, time spent volunteering, or simply being a listening ear to those who needed one, her time spent on this planet was time spent caring for others.

I want to honor my grandmother's legacy by continuing in her footsteps and ask all here to do the same. Be kind to each other. Find ways to help those who cannot help themselves. Figure out how to invite joy into your life and how to cultivate it in the lives of those around you.

Grandma, thank you so much for being the bright soul that you so were. I adore you always and forever.

Before I get started, I wanted to say thank you to every single one of you who has shown up today to honor the life of my grandmother, [Name]. Each and every one of you meant something to her and I know that you know that, without a doubt.

Now, to the hard part -- summing up the life of such an accomplished, loving, and special woman. [Name] -- you were one of the most unique and special souls that has ever graced this earth. Everyone who encountered you immediately felt like one of your best friends. You held that special talent of conversing easily with strangers, of making newcomers feel like oldtimers, and of holding space for anyone and everyone that needed it. I have run into so many people that have said to me, "I'm so sorry for your loss, [Name] was one of my best friends." I've heard this phrase so often it's astounded me -- how did [Name] have so many best friends?! It's because she was special and she knew how to make others feel just as special.

To say the loss we've suffered is great is an understatement -- there is no way to describe the hole that is left by her passing. That being said, I aim to honor her life and legacy by attempting to make others feel just as loved, held, and cared for as she made them feel. I invite everyone here, to do just the same. Thank you.

I know my grandmother would be rolling in her grave if she could see me up here giving her even the slightest bit of praise. Always one to tut at any kind of recognition of her good deeds, she'd absolutely hate that we were all gathered here today to do just that. I can say, without a doubt, that my grandmother was the love of my life. She was the first person to make me feel like I had a home and a place in this world. She encouraged me to pursue my passions, no matter what they were. She was the first person I called when I decided to switch majors at college. She was the first person I called when I needed relationship advice, or advice on how to fix my toilet, or instructions on how to change a tire. She was endlessly crafty, knowledgeable, loving, and hilarious. She hated sad movies and loved a good horror film. Her church group referred to her as "The Old Commander" because she was so stringent in getting them to submit their projects on time. It didn't matter if it was for a church potluck or a wedding reception, she kept people in line and kept all of us in her orbit. Grandma, I love you endlessly and have no idea how I'm to navigate this scary world without you by my side. But I know you're out there, somewhere, looking over me. I love you.

Ladies and Gentlemen, friends and family, we gather here today to celebrate the life of a remarkable man, a loving grandfather, and a proud veteran - [Grandfather's Name]. He lived a full and fulfilling life, filled with joy, laughter, and countless precious memories that will be cherished by all who knew him.

[Grandfather's Name] was born in San Francisco and spent his early years exploring the city and all that it had to offer. He was an adventurous spirit, always eager to try new things and see new places. When he was called to serve in World War 2, he answered the call with bravery and honor, defending our country and our way of life. His service to our nation was a testament to his character, and it was a source of great pride for him throughout his life.

When [Grandfather's Name] returned home from the war, he began a new chapter in his life, one filled with family, friends, and all the things he loved. He was blessed with five grandchildren, and he cherished each and every one of them, spending countless hours camping, fishing, and exploring the great outdoors with them. His love of nature was second only to his love of his family, and he always took time to share his knowledge and appreciation of the natural world with those he loved.

[Grandfather's Name] was also a talented artist and woodworker. He spent many hours in his workshop, creating beautiful pieces of art and furniture that will be cherished by his family for generations to come. His passion for creating was matched only by his love of giving, and every year he donned a Santa Claus suit to bring joy to children in his community.

In the end, [Grandfather's Name] passed away peacefully in Florida at the age of 82, surrounded by the love of his family. He left behind a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Today, we say goodbye to a beloved grandfather, a proud veteran, and a true friend. May he rest in peace and may his memory live on in our hearts forever.

Today, we gather to honor and remember the life of Louis Pereira, a Senior Program Manager and passionate writer. Louis had a love for writing, a passion that he was able to pursue in his final years, penning over six short novels that were close to his heart.

Though Louis may be gone, his legacy lives on through his family, particularly his two beloved grandchildren. His kindness, wisdom, and love will continue to guide them throughout their lives.

Louis's dedication to his work and his commitment to his passions serve as an inspiration to all of us. He was a beloved member of the community, known for his compassion and his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

As we say goodbye to Louis, we take comfort in the memories he has left behind and the impact he has had on our lives. May he rest in peace, knowing that his spirit and his legacy will live on through his family and his writing.

You were always determined to be the best – on the field, on the court, in the classroom. You set your sights high and worked hard to achieve your goals.

I am so proud of everything you have accomplished in your short life. You were an amazing son, brother, and friend and you will be deeply missed.

You had a passion for sports and a natural talent for competition. You were always driven to win and I know that you would have gone far in your chosen field, no matter what that ended up being.

I will miss watching you play and excel at what you loved so much. You brought joy to everyone around you and I am grateful to have been a part of your life.

Rest in peace, my son. You will be forever in my heart.

First, let me take this moment to thank each and every one of you who showed up today (and to those who are joining us online). It means so much to our family to have this support system in place after the sudden passing of our beloved son, [Name].

I'm not a person of many words, but at this point in time it feels almost like there aren't enough words in the English language to describe how I feel or the impact my boy had on those he met throughout his short life. From the day he was born, I knew he was something special. It was in the glint of his eyes when he couldn't figure out a problem, in the sound of his laughter as it reverberated through our home, in the shine of his smile whenever he came home from school. He was special. I know every parent feels that way about their kid, but it's true -- [Name] was unique.

Losing him is the hardest thing I've ever dealt with and I know the spot left behind by him is irreplaceable -- I will deal with that for the rest of my days. At the same time, my son was absolutely not the kind of person who would want his friends, his family, and his loved ones to stand by and let grief consume him. He would want his memory to be celebrated and honored through love, laughter, adventure, and a deep appreciation of everything our lives have to offer.

In honor of my son, please hug your children a little tighter today. Please take a few minutes to appreciate what this planet has to offer. And please, most of all, be kind to one another.

I knew from the second I held you in my arms for the first time, how special, unique, and incredible you were going to be. And I was right.

My heart was overflowing with love and joy each and every time I saw your sweet face. Every time you said "Mom!", even if it was said in anger or frustration. I knew how much you loved me, our family, and life itself. Our talks were some of the most special moments of my life -- whether they lasted 2 minutes or were one of our infamous "loving debates" that lasted hours.

Your mind was brilliant, your passion for justice was admirable, and you were everything I wish I could've been at your age. I love you so very much son and to say this loss is unimaginable is simply an understatement.

I will follow your trajectory through life and attempt to celebrate your spirit in everything that I do. You are my sweet boy and I cannot wait until I get to see your sweet face and hold you in my arms once again.

I love you, son.

[Name] was my [youngest/oldest] [brother/sister] and one of the most important people in my life. I know [he/she] would’ve been amazed to see all of you who have come out today in support of [him/her] and us as a family. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Name]. From the very beginning, [Name] and I were inseparable. I loved having [Name] as a [brother/sister] more than anything else in my life. I’ve tried to protect [him/her] as though [she/he] was my own [son/daughter] throughout our lives and it is incredibly painful to be here letting [him/her] go today.

Even though [Name] was taken from us too soon, I know that I will see [him/her] again soon. [He/she] lived a full and happy life, one that touched the lives of so many people. I take comfort in knowing that [his/her] legacy will live on through the lives of others.

I’d like to leave you with one of my favorite quotes that I feel sums up [Name] perfectly: “[quote]”

Thank you all again for coming.

Today we’re gathered in memory of [Name], my [brother/sister] and biggest supporter. I’m [name], [Name] [oldest/youngest/older/younger] [brother/sister]. When we were younger, [Name] & I had a difficult relationship. Lots of fights, screaming, yelling; things that siblings tend to do. As we got older, I started to realize how important [Name] was to me and how much of a supporter [he/she] was to me as an individual.

A couple years ago, we went to [location] for [reason]. We [description of memory]. Another moment that I’ll always remember is the time we went to [description of memory].

[Name] was nothing but [generous/kind/loving/helpful/hilarious/determined/accomplished] and was the pride of our family. [He/she] was my best friend, my partner in crime, and someone I knew I could always rely on. Our family is not the same with their loss, but we will press on and live our best lives as a way of honoring [his/her] memory.

Thank you all for joining me and for allowing [Name] to have a space in your heart and in your life.

Every day, after school, my brother would wait (sometimes over an hour) for me to get out of my last class. He would stand at the bus stop, a huge smile on his face every time he heard the bell ring and saw me running towards him. This tradition continued all the way from when I was around 6 to my very last year of high school.

He was one of the most protective, kind, smart, annoying, hilarious, and goofy individuals I've ever known and will surely, ever meet. Going out of his way to stand at a bus stop just to make sure I had some consistency in my life, a friendly face at the end of the day, and a safe way to get back home was the kind of person he continued to be throughout my life (and throughout the lives of his own family).

Everyone who knew him knew what it meant to him to protect those around him, and that kind of protection was one he enacted until the day he passed away. Without my brother here, I feel a piece of me has shuttered itself away. At the same time, his loss has sparked a desire in me to be better. For him, for his family, for my family, and for myself. His impact on others was incalculable and immeasurable; his life is equally difficult to sum up in just a few words in just a few minutes. I don't doubt I'll be sharing small stories from his life for the rest of my own, but I do want to make sure I make one thing extremely clear.

My brother was the best of us and this world is less bright now that he has passed. Please, keep him in your memory and in your thoughts. Honor his memory by being kind and trying your absolute best. Thank you for coming and for joining my family in remembering my brother.

If I were to say that my sister was the most important person in my life, it might be a bit of a life. (Technically, my mom is the most important person in my life.) I didn't consider my sister as a separate individual -- she was part of me. We were two parts of a whole. Together, we were a full being. Without her, I feel as though half of me is gone.

When we were young, we would stay up until way past our bedtime, whispering down the hallway to each other as we slept in separate beds. We would share our dreams, our fears, our anger, and our joy for a few hours each night. I learned about her dream to be a veterinarian and she celebrated my desire to be a janitor. (We were young!)

Each summer we would go to summer camp together (which we hated), prompted by our parents' need to get some much needed alone time. We were fused at the hip and made almost no friends during summer camps (much to our joy and delight). When we'd get home, our parents would ask if we made new friends and had a great time, we'd lie and make up names for the friends we never made.

When we graduated from college (we both attended [name of college]), she was right behind me on the stage, clasping her degree in [subject] while I held mine in [subject] -- far from our dreams as children.

Throughout our 20's we played around with moving apart and traveling but would ultimately reunite in our hometown every two years or so. When we lost [name], we lived only 20 minutes from each other and would see each other nearly every other day. She was the first person I called when I needed someone to hear me out, someone to listen to me rant, someone to comfort me as I cried, and someone to advocate for me when I wasn't kind to myself.

Losing my sister is the hardest thing I've ever had to go through. I will never feel whole again. At the same time, I know she would want me to remember her in a bright light and know that I carry her with me at all times. I truly aim to do this. In her memory, please give your loved ones a hug today and let them know how much they mean to you.

Many of you attending today know my sister through her immensely successful career as a nurse, some of you know her through her brief stint as a filmographer, and many of you know her because she made a deep impression on you at some point during our childhood. To say she was a lifelong friend to many wouldn't be doing her justice. My sister was the kind of person who somehow found the stragglers, the outcasts, the nerds, the misfits, and the people who didn't feel like they had a community -- and gave them one. She opened up her home to those in need, rented out (and sometimes just lended out) her extra rooms, constantly helped people find jobs, resources, and connections when they were new to the city. She was everything to so many and I'm so blessed to see you all here today. Please try your best to fill your life with generosity and gratitude as a testament to her and her life. Thank you.

Thank you for joining me today in honoring my sister's memory. From a young age, I knew my sister was special. She would pick me up each and every day from school. When I went to college, she was there to drive me to the dorms. When I graduated, she drove me across the country. Without her constant and unrelenting support, I wouldn't have made it through the last 40 years of my life. She showed me how to be a better sister, a better person, and a wonderful mom. I owe everything to her and don't know how to navigate life without her.

My grandson, [Full Name] was an amazing young man. He made his family immensely proud of him every single day he lived. A teacher, an educator, a passionate writer, and a talented artist, his multifaceted personality and talent arsenal impressed everyone he met.

He was a strong and independent man, who always put others before himself. Even when he was younger, he'd be the first of my grandkids to ask how he could help. If I was fixing the car, he'd want to watch. If I was working in the garden, he'd want to help. If the lawn needed to be mowed, he'd be up on a Saturday morning taking care of it. When his grandmother, my wife, had hip surgery, he was the one to run and grab us groceries every week. All of this without complaint and without making us feel as though we were burdens.

I am so proud of the man that he had become and only wish he had the opportunity to live out the rest of his days. A rare and special soul, he will be missed so very much.

Thank you for everything, [first name]. I love you and miss you so much.

To my beautiful granddaughter,

You were the light in my life – always happy, always smiling. You lit up a room every time you entered it and I will miss that light so very much.

I am so proud of the woman you were becoming and I know that you would have accomplished great things in your life. You had such a bright future ahead of you and I am heartbroken that it has been cut so short.

I will cherish all the memories we have together – from your first steps, to your first day of school, to your high school graduation. You were always my pride and joy and I will miss you more than words can say.

Rest in peace, my sweet granddaughter. You will be forever in my heart.

Example # 3

Those of you who know me, know how much my grandson meant to me, our family, and our community. [Name] was a rare individual -- someone that, in today's day and age, is becoming increasingly more rare. He thrived on connecting with others and building up his community in any way he could. Countless hours were spent volunteering with the food bank, the humane society, setting up various cancer walks and runs and trying his hardest to do good in this world and to provide a sense of togetherness with the few precious years he had on this planet. His loss is deeply felt by everyone in our family and of course, many of those who are not (but according to him, would be called family). Please consider honoring [Name]'s memory by volunteering your time in any way that you find meaningful. Maybe that means setting up a walk or run (or any other fun activity) for a charity that you hold dear. Maybe that means picking up trash on the road. Maybe that means spending time in the community garden. In any case, know that any time spent building up the lives of others is time spent remembering and honoring the life of [Name] -- and for that, we are forever grateful.

When I gave birth to [Name], my life was permanently changed. I'd heard how this can happen from friends and family, stories about how having a child changes your life. I'd known this would happen but no amount of warning could've prepared me for how rapidly and totally my world was consumed by my baby. When I held her in my arms for the first time, I knew. I knew my life's purpose. I understood the unspeakable bond that tethers a mother to her child. I was hesitant to release her, to let anyone else but me hold her, even her father. I was obsessed.

With each day, she grew into the bright, confident, and cheerful little girl she ended up being. Every flower was a burst of laughter, interactions with puppies and dogs was a cause for joy, she cried incessantly and wouldn't let me sleep for over 2 months -- but it was so worth it. Seeing her bright, chubby cheeks light up as I turned the corner into her room made it so very worth it.

My daughter was my world and I have no idea how I am to cope with her loss. No parent should undergo the rage and grief that accompanies picking out a casket for your small child. Her life was tragically taken from her and I'll never get to know what kind of person she would've been -- though I have theories. I know she loved every day she got to spend on this earth and I know she felt loved for each and every day.

What I learned from her was to embrace joy, to find a spark of happiness in each and every day, and to cry it out when you have to. [Name], sweet girl, you are so loved and so very missed.

Thank you for joining me and my family today to celebrate, remember, and honor the life of [Full Name]. [Name] was a [man/woman] of [describe characteristics] with a penchant for [description] that always showed itself whenever [he/she] would [description]. A [man/woman] of many talents, [Name] showed us that it was never too late to start [hobby/career].

My [father/mother/sister/brother/relation] was, without a doubt, my best friend, my biggest cheerleader, and my constant supporter. When I was interested in [hobby], [she/he] showed up to all the events. When I decided I was obsessed with [hobby], [he/she] went out and purchased [item]. When I decided to [description], [she/he] was the first person to [description].

My [mom/dad/relation] was an unforgettable and truly remarkable human being. I endeavor, with all my heart, to follow in [his/her] footsteps for the rest of my life. I will honor [his/her] time on Earth and [his/her] contributions to our society by [describe how you'll honor their life]. I ask that everyone here today join me in this endeavour as we aim to honor the life of [full name]. Thank you.

To my wife,

You were my best friend and my partner in life. We shared everything – our hopes, our dreams, our lives. You were the love of my life and I will miss you forever.

We had so many happy years together and I am grateful for every moment we shared. You brought joy to my life and I will cherish our time together always.

I am so proud of the woman you were and I know that you touched the lives of everyone around you. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Rest in peace, my love. You will be forever in my heart.

Choosing a favorite moment from my life spent with my wife is impossible. Was it the time that we went to Lake Minetonka and passed out on the shores after sharing a box full of wine? Was it when she surprised me with tickets to see The Black Crowes in concert, only two months after I'd mentioned it to her? When I'd wake up in the morning to a hot cup of coffee and a brief rant on the political state of the world? The way she mothered our children effortlessly and still took the time to ask me about specific relationships at work? My life has been full of these warm memories -- I can't land on one. What I do know is that my wife emanated love each and every day. Every single day I felt loved, supported, and known. It made me want to make sure she was taken care of in each and every way. I did my best. I tried to give her the life she so deserved, but even if I could give her the life of a queen, it wouldn't have been enough for what she deserved. My wife was everything and is the center of my joy. I miss her each and every day and I know I will see her again.

Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to be married. I was obsessed with any and all films of prince charmings, beautiful and big weddings, and women being swept off their feet. I was convinced that my time would come by the time I was 20 (how naive!). I went through college and by the time I was 32 realized I'd never had a boyfriend. I'd never been courted. I wasn't even sure I liked men. My desire to be swept off my feet dwindled and I became secure in myself.

Until I met [Name].

Immediately, within the first 20 minutes of meeting [Name], I was absolutely smitten. I thought of almost nothing else when we were apart -- and we hated each other! She was competing with me for the same promotion at work and we were both tenacious and fierce women. She was stubborn, confident, and sure of what she wanted -- much like myself.

After she got the promotion I so desperately wanted, she invited me out for a conciliatory drink -- a move I never would've made. She would go on to refer to this as our first date, though I considered it the first brick towards building a bridge away from dislike and towards camaraderie.

I was swept off my feet, in a completely unexpected way. During our first years of dating, I found myself wanting to provide for her, take care of her, make her smile at all possible moments. When she ranted about work, I wanted to defend her. When she managed to burn chicken each and every time, you wouldn't hear a peep from me. When she suggested we get married, I wanted her to be the star of the show. I wanted to show her off to every important person in my life. She'd lovingly refer to me as her ""Princess Charming"" -- a role I happily inhabited.

My wife brought joy, kindness, love, courage, strength, and purpose into my life. Without her by my side, I feel an unhealable void. At the same time, in her way, she prepared me as best she could. I ask those gathered here today, in her memory, to help me keep her presence alive. Please spread joy in all the ways you can. Tell people how you feel. Advocate for yourself. Be free.

My life's greatest years were spent with [Name], the love of my life. She loved everything about life, even the downsides -- she embraced it all. Life was hard, but it was also worth it for her. From the moment I met her, I knw my life would be different and that I'd found the one.

[Name] made such a massive difference in the community around her, especially after becoming president of the charity she worked for. Her favorite things in life were witnessing others transform their lives for the better, helping people access community resources wherever possible, and advocating for those less fortunate. Go out today and try your best to emulate everything she did, and more.

I am so saddened by the loss of [Name]. We didn't always see eye to eye, but I always respected [him/her] as a hard worker and a great person. [She/He] was always so kind and helpful, and I will never forget all of the times [she/he] went out of [him/her] way to help me. [She/He] will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing [him/her].

When we first met at [company], [name] was one of the first people to make me feel welcome. I’ll never forget how [she/he] took the time to get to know me and helped me feel like I belonged there.

I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to work with [him/her], and I know that [she/he] has left a lasting impression on everyone [she/he] met. [She/He] was an amazing person, and I know that [she/he] will be deeply missed. Thank you for everything, [name].

May you rest in peace.

Throughout my career, I've met plenty of personalities, characters, and people -- but none as special as [Name]. When [Name] first entered the front doors to our building, I immediately knew we would get on. [Name] was the type of person you'd easily become friends with. People who met [him/her/them] would immediately want to work alongside them. As one of my first direct reports, I can't tell you how many people would come to me on the side and request to be paired with or on a team with [Name]. Why? [He/she] was special. People gravitated towards them. People wanted to be in their sphere of influence. People wanted to work alongside them and get to know them.

That's rare. This is the first time I've seen the majority of my company in one room that wasn't our building -- and it's for the funeral of our very special friend and colleague -- [Name]. Thank you to [Name's parents] for raising such an incredible human being. Please know that your [son/daughter/child] changed the lives, every day, of so many people around them. I have never in my 50 years of managing imagined running into someone like [Name] and I am blessed to have known them. Rest well and peacefully, [Name], you did well.

Today we come together to honor the life and legacy of a beloved retired musician, who touched so many lives with his passion for music. He was a kind-hearted man who enjoyed pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons. He was an avid traveler, having visited countries all over the world. He also had a strong connection to animals, particularly cats. His home was often filled with cats of all shapes, sizes and colors.

He had a variety of musical influences, which he blended together to create his own unique sound. He was an incredibly talented musician who could play various instruments including the guitar, piano and flute. He wrote some beautiful melodies that will live on long after him.

He was also a generous soul, always ready to lend a helping hand. He had an open door policy and welcomed people into his home with open arms. More than anything else, he loved sharing stories and swapping ideas with those around him.

Today we celebrate the life of this incredible man who left behind a beautiful legacy of music and of kindness. He will be remembered for all that he has accomplished and the many lives that he touched. May we strive to follow in his footsteps and honor his memory by living our own lives with love, humility and caring. Thank you.

These eulogy examples are for those who would like to focus on a loved one's profession or career choices as their way of honoring their life's work.

Eulogy for a speech pathologist

Dear friends, family, and colleagues,

Today, we gather to honor the life and legacy of Sarah Kwambe, a remarkable woman who touched the lives of so many people during her time with us. Sarah was not only a skilled speech pathologist but also a former professional soccer player who had to leave the sport she loved due to a career-ending injury. However, Sarah didn't let that setback stop her from pursuing her passion for helping others.

Sarah's journey began in South Dakota, where she lived with her beloved cat, Sam. She dedicated her life to making a difference in the lives of young people, particularly middle schoolers, whom she worked with as a speech pathologist. She had a remarkable ability to connect with her students and inspire them to achieve their full potential.

Despite the challenges she faced early on in her life, Sarah never gave up on her dreams. She was an accomplished athlete who excelled in soccer, but when her injury put an end to her career, she channeled her passion and determination into her studies. She pursued a degree in speech pathology, and her dedication to her work was evident in everything she did.

Sarah was a compassionate, caring, and selfless person who always put others first. She was a mentor to many, a friend to all, and a source of inspiration to everyone who knew her. She had a warm smile and a kind heart that could light up a room, and her love for her students was evident in the way she interacted with them.

Although Sarah never had children of her own, she had a deep love for her cat, Sam, who was always by her side. Her commitment to her feline friend was just one of the many examples of her kindness and compassion.

In conclusion, Sarah Kwambe was a truly remarkable person who touched the lives of many people in ways that will never be forgotten. Her legacy will live on through the countless students she helped, the colleagues she inspired, and the friends and family who loved her dearly. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Rest in peace, Sarah Kwambe.

Eulogy example for an environmental activist

Dear friends and family,

Today, we gather to remember and celebrate the life of Rachel Chen, a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to protecting and preserving our environment. Rachel was an accomplished environmental scientist, mother of three children - Irina, Bliss, and Mario, and a loving partner to her husband of many years.

From a young age, Rachel had a deep love and appreciation for nature. Her passion for the environment inspired her to pursue a career in environmental science, and she quickly became a respected expert in her field. She spent many years working tirelessly to protect our national parks, and her dedication to this cause never wavered.

Rachel was also an avid gardener, and she had a remarkable ability to bring beauty to everything she touched. Her love for nature was evident in everything she did, from the way she tended to her garden to the way she spoke about the natural world.

As a mother, Rachel was loving, patient, and kind. She instilled in her children a deep respect for the environment and a desire to make the world a better place. Her children were the light of her life, and she was so proud of the people they had become.

Rachel's passing is a great loss to us all. She was a remarkable person who touched the lives of so many people in countless ways. Her legacy will live on through the countless national parks and natural spaces that she helped to protect, as well as through the love and memories that her family and friends will always carry in their hearts.

Rachel, we will miss you dearly, but we know that your spirit will live on through the beauty of nature that you cherished so deeply. Rest in peace.

Eulogy example for a young adult

Today, we come together to celebrate the life of Zach Peterson. Zach was a talented mechanic, a loving son, and a loyal friend. He passed away far too soon, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Zach had a passion for auto maintenance that was unmatched. He loved nothing more than working on cars, and he was always happy to help a friend in need. His skills were truly remarkable, and he had an uncanny ability to diagnose and fix any issue that came his way.

But Zach was more than just a mechanic. He was a gentle soul who cared deeply about those around him. He had a warm smile that could light up a room, and he was always quick with a joke or a kind word. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and included, no matter who they were.

Zach's passing has left a void in our lives, but we take comfort in knowing that his memory will live on. We will remember his kind heart, his infectious laughter, and his unwavering loyalty. Zach was a special person who made a lasting impact on the world around him, and we are all better for having known him. Rest in peace, Zach.

Eulogy for an infant

With heavy hearts, we gather here today to mourn the loss of a precious child who has been taken from us too soon. We know that God has a plan for each and every one of us, but it is still difficult to understand why a young life has been cut short.

As we come together to remember this beautiful child, we take comfort in knowing that they are now in the loving embrace of our Lord. Though their time with us was brief, they brought immense joy and love into the world, and we will cherish the memories we have of them forever.

We know that this is a time of deep sorrow, but we can find solace in the fact that this child is now at peace in the arms of our Heavenly Father. May we all find comfort in our faith, and may we hold this precious child close in our hearts as we navigate this difficult time. Rest in peace, little one.

Eulogy for a grandmother

Today we gather to remember a truly remarkable woman - my grandmother. She was a woman of many talents: a masterful cross-stitcher, an incredible fudge-maker, and a loving grandmother to a whole gaggle of grandchildren.

Grandma was the kind of woman who made you feel like you were the only person in the world when she was talking to you. She always had a smile on her face and a twinkle in her eye, and she had a way of making even the most mundane tasks seem like an adventure.

And oh, her fudge! I think we can all agree that Grandma's fudge was a work of art. It was creamy, decadent, and so rich that you could only eat a tiny piece at a time - not that it stopped any of us from trying to eat the whole batch in one sitting!

But beyond her talents and her love of fudge, Grandma will be remembered most of all for the love she had for her family. She was a guiding light for all of us, a source of wisdom and strength when we needed it most.

So, as we say goodbye to this incredible woman, let us not mourn her passing, but celebrate the incredible life she lived. She was one of a kind, and we were all blessed to have known her. Rest in peace, Grandma - we will never forget you.

Eulogy for a farmer

Today we gather to celebrate the life of a man who loved nothing more than working hard under the sun, watching his land grow and thrive. [Name] was not just any farmer - he was a tireless advocate for agricultural reform and change. His passion for sustainable farming practices, conservation, and education knew no bounds.

He was never afraid to get his hands dirty or put in long hours because he believed that every crop mattered; every seed planted had the potential to make a difference. His dedication inspired those around him and helped shape the landscape of our community.

[Name] will be remembered by all as an honest, kind-hearted man who always put others first. I’ll miss his unwavering determination to better this world through agriculture and his infectious smile that brightened up everyone’s day.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when he taught me how to plant corn by hand while sharing stories about his childhood on the farm.

Another one of our community's favorite memories of [Name] is when he organized a fundraiser for local farmers affected by droughts and natural disasters.

Thank you all for being here today to honor my friend’s memory and legacy. In [name]’s words “Farming is not just a profession but also an art form”. May we carry on this art form in honor of him.

Eulogy for a teacher

We are gathered here today to say goodbye to someone very special: A teacher who dedicated her life towards social justice inside her classrooms, making sure each student felt valued and respected regardless of their background or ethnicity. She empowered students from underserved communities with access to quality education - she showed them they could achieve anything if they worked hard enough.

[name]'s legacy lives on through every student she touched during her career as an educator, instilling confidence in them whilst fighting against systemic oppression within school walls.

I’ll miss her contagious energy, witty humor, and deep compassion for everyone she met.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when she invited me to speak in her class about my personal experiences and background, empowering me to share my story confidently.

Another one of our community's favorite memories of [Name] is when she organized a rally with her students for Black Lives Matter movement that brought people together from all walks of life.

Thank you for being here today, honoring the memory and legacy of someone who dedicated their life towards ensuring social justice inside classrooms. In the words of [name], “Education can change how we view ourselves, other people, and the world”. Let’s carry on this legacy in honor of her.

Eulogy for a foster dad

We gather here today to celebrate the life of a man who was known for his unwavering dedication towards family, golfing and fostering kids - [name]. If there’s one thing that everyone knows about him- it's that he loved nothing more than spending time with those he loved and helping those in need.

[name] had an infectious personality which brought joy to all those around him. He made sure to always put his family first no matter what, while also making time for the sport he was passionate about: Golf.

He would often take foster kids along with him on these trips; providing them a chance at a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

I’ll miss his contagious laughter, generosity, and his commitment to living every day to its fullest potential.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when we went out golfing together by the lake, enjoying each other’s company over some good shots.

Another one of our community's favorite memories of [Name] is when he organized a youth-golf tournament fundraiser raising funds for underprivileged children.

Thank you all for being here today honoring someone who lived their life so fully dedicated towards their passions - Family, Golfing & Fostering Kids. In the words of [name], “Life is like a round of golf; try your best from tee to green but don't forget to enjoy the moments along the way."

Eulogy for a soldier

Today we come together as friends and family members mourning the loss of someone whose bravery knew no bounds- [name]. A soldier who sacrificed everything including her own life during deployment serving her country valiantly.

Her courage has inspired us all and reminded us that freedom sometimes comes at great cost—she gave up everything she had just so others could have something better tomorrow.

She will be remembered not only as a hero but also as a friend whose selflessness touched countless lives on and off-duty alike. Her positivity knew no bounds even in times where things felt like they couldn’t get any worse.

I’ll miss her infectious energy, unbreakable spirit and her ability to inspire people around her even in the darkest of times.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when we went on a vacation together after she returned from deployment, catching up on life post-duty and just enjoying each other’s company.

Another one of our community's favorite memories of [Name] was when she organized a fundraiser for veterans who had been wounded during active duty.

Thank you all for being here today. We celebrate someone whose profound sacrifice has given us the freedom that we enjoy today- Freedom which comes at great cost. In [name]'s words: "Duty first; self second." Let us never forget this sentiment as we honor those brave men and women who serve their country valiantly.

Eulogy for an animal activist

Today marks the passing away of a woman whose compassion for animals was unmatched - [name]. She served as President at local ASPCA chapter where she inspired others through her dedication towards animal rights advocacy and protection. Her tireless efforts led to increased awareness within our community regarding animal welfare issues such as abuse or neglect.

[name] will be remembered not only as an advocate but also as a friend to all animals; big or small. Her kindness knew no bounds and it extended beyond just domesticated pets like dogs or cats- advocating for wildlife preservation too!

I’ll miss her infectious energy, unwavering passion and her ability to inspire empathy in those around her.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when she rescued several abandoned kittens outside our office building during lunch breaks.

Another one of our local communities’ favorite memories with [Name] was when she coordinated fundraisers which helped raise funds for medical treatment costs associated with pet care amongst low-income families.

Thank you all for being here today honoring someone who made it their mission to ensure well-being among some oft-forgotten members in society: animals. May we strive each day to extend kindness towards them, carrying on what [name] started so passionately.

Eulogy for a writer

Thank you so much for attending the services today as we gather to say goodbye to Kaleb Morris, an incredibly talented author and journalist. His work delved into the darkest corners of human behavior, shining a light on the most heinous and unthinkable crimes. Kaleb had a gift for telling stories that not only captivated readers but also helped to shed light on important issues that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.

Tragically, Kaleb's life was cut short in a boating accident, leaving behind his child and former wife, Shareece. Though we grieve for the life that has been taken from us too soon, we can also take comfort in the legacy that Kaleb leaves behind.

His writing was not just a means to entertain, but a way to make a difference in the world. Kaleb shone a light on issues that needed to be addressed, and gave a voice to those who had been silenced by violence and tragedy. He was a gifted storyteller, and his impact on the true crime genre will be felt for years to come.

Kaleb will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his work will live on as a testament to his incredible talent and dedication to his craft. Rest in peace, Kaleb.

Eulogy for a nurse practitioner

We gather to remember and honor Cherish Abrams, a beloved nurse practitioner who touched the lives of countless patients and colleagues during her 25 years of service. Cherish was known for her compassion, dedication, and expertise, and her loss is deeply felt by all who knew her.

Cherish was like a ""grandma"" to the NICU where she worked, comforting and caring for infants and families during their most vulnerable moments. Her gentle touch and kind words provided solace and hope to those in need, and her wisdom and guidance were invaluable to her colleagues.

Cherish's tragic passing is a reminder of how precious life is and how quickly it can be taken away. But even in death, she continues to inspire us with her selflessness, her unwavering dedication to her patients, and her love for her profession.

Cherish's memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her legacy will continue through the lives of the countless patients she cared for and the colleagues she mentored. May she rest in peace, knowing that she made a profound difference in the world and that she will be deeply missed.

Eulogy for a community leader

Today we gather to honor and remember the life of Michael Patel, a beloved community leader and philanthropist who dedicated his life to making the world a better place. Michael was a self-made businessman, a devoted family man, and a passionate advocate for those in need.

Throughout his life, Michael demonstrated a deep commitment to his community, supporting countless charitable organizations and causes. His generosity knew no bounds, and his impact on the lives of those he helped will never be forgotten.

Michael's passing is a great loss to us all, but his legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched and the causes he supported. We are grateful for the time we had with him and for the inspiration he provided to us all. Rest in peace, Michael, knowing that your life made a profound difference in the world and that you will be deeply missed.

Eulogy for a high school teacher

We gather here today to remember and celebrate the life of Samantha Liu, a beloved high school teacher who passed away far too soon. Samantha was a bright, energetic, and dedicated educator who brought out the best in her students and inspired them to reach for their dreams.

In her 15 years of teaching, Samantha touched the lives of countless students, colleagues, and parents. Her passion for education was infectious, and her positive energy was felt by everyone who crossed her path.

Though we mourn the loss of Samantha, we take comfort in the memories she has left behind and the impact she has had on our lives. Her legacy lives on in the countless students whose lives she touched, and in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to know her. Rest in peace, Samantha, knowing that you made a profound difference in the world and that you will be deeply missed.

Eulogy for a philanthropist

Eulogy example for loving mother.

We gather here today to celebrate the life of Emily Thompson, a beloved mother and grandmother who passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. Emily was a kind, caring, and nurturing woman who devoted her life to her loved ones.

As a mother of four and a grandmother of nine, Emily's love and devotion knew no bounds. She was the heart and soul of her family, providing comfort, support, and wisdom whenever it was needed.

Though we mourn the loss of Emily, we take comfort in the memories she has left behind and the love she shared with us all. Her legacy lives on through her family and the countless lives she touched during her lifetime. Rest in peace, Emily, knowing that you made a profound difference in the world and that you will be deeply missed.

Eulogy example for teacher

Marcus was a beloved teacher who dedicated his life to helping his students achieve their goals. He had a gift for teaching and his enthusiasm for learning was contagious. Marcus always went above and beyond to help his students, whether it was staying late to help them with homework, or just lending an ear when they needed to talk. He truly believed in the power of education to change lives, and he worked tirelessly to make sure his students had the tools they needed to succeed. Marcus was also a devoted husband and father. He met his wife, Sarah, when they were both in college, and they were inseparable ever since. They had two children together, and Marcus loved nothing more than spending time with his family. He was always there for his kids, whether it was coaching their sports teams or just reading them a bedtime story.

Marcus was diagnosed with cancer three years ago, but he never let it slow him down. He continued teaching, even when he was undergoing chemotherapy, and he always had a positive attitude. Marcus fought his illness with courage and grace, and he never lost his faith in God.

Marcus was a shining example of what it means to be a good person, and he touched the lives of everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by his students, colleagues, and his loving wife and two children.

Eulogy example for a chef

Isabella was a talented chef who had a passion for creating beautiful and delicious food. She was always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients, and her dishes were a work of art. Isabella had a natural talent for cooking, but she also worked hard to hone her skills. She attended culinary school and worked in some of the best restaurants in the city. But Isabella's love for cooking wasn't just about creating amazing dishes. She also loved the way food brought people together. Isabella was always hosting dinner parties and potlucks, and she loved nothing more than seeing people enjoy her food. She had a big heart and loved to share her food with family and friends. Her food was a way for her to show her love for the people in her life.

Isabella was also a devoted partner. She met her girlfriend, Maria, when they were both working in a restaurant, and they were inseparable ever since. They built a life together, and Isabella loved nothing more than spending time with Maria and their two dogs.

Isabella's death was a shock to everyone who knew her. She had so much talent and so much to give to the world. But even in death, Isabella's spirit lives on through her food and the memories she created for those who knew and loved her.

Eulogy for a principal

Today, we honor the life of a great educator who dedicated his life to shaping young minds and transforming our community through educational reform. We celebrate Michael's passion for education and his tireless efforts in ensuring that every child in this school district received quality education. He was not only an excellent principal but also a mentor, friend, and role model to many.

Michael was committed to providing resources necessary for students' success by creating programs that would enable them to have access to books, computers, and other learning materials. His unwavering commitment towards serving disadvantaged communities will forever be remembered.

We'll miss his vision for educational reform but are grateful for the impact he left on us all.

One of my favorite memories with Michael was when he fought tirelessly to get funding from the government so that we could add more classrooms and hire more teachers. His determination inspired me always.

Eulogy for a doctor

It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye today to Dr.[Name], an incredible physician who touched many lives during his medical career. While he loved fast cars, small dogs, and Margaritaville music, his dedication towards helping others never wavered.

Dr.[Name] had a way of putting people at ease whenever they were anxious about their health issues; he made you feel like everything would be okay no matter what happened.

He lived life fully and inspired those around him while doing so - even while battling his own illness—always encouraging others never to give up hope or lose faith in themselves.

I’ll miss his sense of humor but am lost without his guidance on how I should take care of myself better!

Another one of my favorite memories with Dr.[Name] is when he took me out on a ride-along in his sports car after work one day! He loved living life vicariously through little adventures like these!

To capture more memories of your loved one, consider creating a memorial website . Memorial websites are excellent tools that help you share event details, post an obituary, collect memories, and raise funds in someone’s name. They’re easy to set up, easy to use and completely free.

Start a memorial website

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Help protect your family, get free grief support, 13+ tribute ideas for a father who has died.

Paying tribute to a father who has passed away is a common gesture children and others want to make. You’ll often find tributes in books, art, film, poems, and other media, but these aren’t the only places to pay tribute to someone you’ve lost or to someone important to you. You can also pay tribute

How to Plan a Jewish Unveiling Ceremony

Many religions have different customs and rites that take place after someone passes away. If you’ve never planned and held your own unveiling ceremony, this task can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Additionally, if you’re not part of that religion, you may feel awkward or uncomfortable at

What are Memorial Websites?

If you’re looking for a place to memorialize the life of someone you loved, share their story with others, and/or connect your community around the life of your loved one, a memorial website is a great place to start. What is a memorial website? A memorial website (which can be referred to

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8 Of The Most Amazing Eulogies Of All Time

When it comes to funeral services, a eulogy can be the most important element that ties everything together. A eulogy captures the life story, starts conversations, helps us remember the times we shared, and (usually) makes us laugh or cry.

As a funeral director, you might sometimes feel numb towards the delivery of eulogies, mostly because you see them every day.

But, I want to show you these eulogies so you can laugh, cry, and maybe learn something from them so you can help your families create the best eulogy they’ve ever imagined for their loved one.

Without further ado, lets look at 8 eulogies that changed my life (and might change yours too):

1. Brooke Shields’ Eulogy for Michael Jackson

Brooke Shields, longtime friend of Michael Jackson, delivered this emotional eulogy at his public memorial service on July 7, 2009. I can still remember where I was while watching Michael Jackson’s memorial service. I remember it was raining all day – I thought it was to match my mood. Devastated by the loss of such a musical genius, Brooke Shields’ eulogy for Michael made me, as she explains during this video, “smile though your heart is aching.” I will personally never forget watching Michael’s memorial service, or this memorable eulogy.

2. “For My Mother”

This is the perfect example of a eulogy that doesn’t have to be a grand, wise, long, tearful, epic event. Instead, this woman uses satire (that can be a bit morbid at times) to create a truly one-of-a-kind eulogy for her mother. What we can learn from this eulogy is that a few minutes, a good laugh and a good story is all you need to create something memorable.

3. “Beautifully Imperfect”

Sometimes the way you remember your loved one isn’t all rainbows and butterflies. This eulogy is a perfect example of that. This woman gives her husband’s eulogy in a unique way by talking about his “sounds” (coming from both his mouth and his rear end) and explains that it’s these “little imperfections” that made her husband perfect for her.

She closes the eulogy beautifully by saying “So to my beautiful children, I hope one day you, too, find yourselves life partners who are as beautifully imperfect as your father was to me.”

  4. A Sister’s Eulogy for Steve Jobs

Read the eulogy by clicking here .

Not only was Steve Jobs one of the greatest innovators of our time, but he was truly a passionate man. Naturally, there are plenty of people who have many  beautiful things to say something about Mr. Jobs. But, perhaps the best way anyone could ever summarize Steve Jobs’ life came from his sister, Mona Simpson.

Mona uses the literary device called stream of consciousness to truly take us back to the most defining moments she experienced with Steve. As the reader, I felt like I was right there during Steve’s final moments. So, please do take 5 minutes to read it. Trust me, it’s worth it.

5. Kevin Costner’s Eulogy for Whitney Houston

Although Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston weren’t life-long friends or relatives, Kevin still did an excellent job memorializing Whitney’s life in a memorable way. He starts out the eulogy explaining how despite popular belief, they have a  lot in common. He draws out a parallel between his life and her life, and finds a way to truly capture her life story at the same time. If you love Kevin Costner, you’ll really love this wonderful eulogy he put together.

6. “I will not be moved.”

It’s not everyday that you get to attend the funeral service of someone who literally changed history. It’s even less often that we have the chance to watch one historically memorable woman commemorate another. In this instance, Oprah Winfrey delivered Rosa Park’s eulogy in a very rhetorical manner. She used the phrase “I will not be moved” several times throughout the eulogy – almost like a chorus. What we can learn from Oprah is that the power of a eulogy can lie in just one sentence. One powerful sentence is all it takes to deliver greatness.

7. “God must have needed Muppets in heaven.”

On May 21, 1990, Frank Oz (the voice of Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Cookie Monster, Bert and Grover) gave one of the most memorable eulogies I’ve ever seen for Jim Henson. The thing that makes this eulogy so special is near the end, when Frank struggles to continue, and concludes it abruptly by saying “I think that’s when I knew he loved me and I loved him.” In my opinion, his inability to express his emotions any further is what makes the eulogy so beautiful. His eulogy truly shows us how much one person can influence others for a lifetime.  

8. “The first person to say “f&%*” at a British memorial service.”

I did you a favor by putting this one last, because finally you can laugh after wiping all your tears away!  In this eulogy, actor and comedian John Cleese takes just two minutes to remember the beloved Graham Chapman, famously known for his role in Monty Python. The reason why I love this eulogy so much is because, well… it’s freaking hilarious!

My favorite line is: “Well I feel I should say nonsense, good riddance to him, that freeloading bastard. And the reason I feel I should say this is he would never forgive me if I didn’t. If i threw away this opportunity to shock you all on his behalf.” What makes this eulogy so perfect is that it remembers someone’s life in the way they’d want it to be remembered, rather than the typical “norm.”

Now that you’ve watched 8 of the most amazing eulogies ever, go forth and put what you’ve learned into action! Help your families truly capture their loved one’s story, move people, and spark those life conversations. In my opinion, the best thing you can do for families is help them remember their loved one in the most unique, meaningful way possible. Good luck!

Did we miss your favorite eulogy of all time? Share your favorites in the comments below!

Joe Joachim

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30 Responses to “8 Of The Most Amazing Eulogies Of All Time”

[…] Share some great eulogies that client families can use for inspiration. – Create a video walk-through of your facilities. – […]

[…] 8 Of The Most Amazing Eulogies Of All Time […]

[…] Jobs’s last moments were written about in his sister’s touching eulogy for him, where she writes: “Even now, he had a stern, still handsome profile, the profile of an […]

Great article.

Thank you for posting these. Particularly the daughter speaking about her Mom and the wife about her husband. By doing that you gave me the insight and the courage to write and deliver my mother’s eulogy a few weeks ago. Thank you.

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the most enjoyable eulogy is sefl eulogy

This is one is better than any of your examples.

https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10205485739687179&pnref=story

https://www.facebook.com/thy.nguyen.7315720?fref=ts

awsme and beautiful beautiful eulogies

Are you serious; Did you not think that the tribute to the fallen Caesar by Marc Antony was the most beautiful Eulogy ever penned, delivered and memorialized in History? May you be dug up from your graves and have rocks thrown at your bodies as punishment for this lack, alas, verily an insult that your readers will understand as insult befitting such an omission.Ttherefore purge thyself of this curse by reading the complete works of the Bard of Avon on the Don! Surely if not your very souls are in manifest danger…, Therefor repair yourselves to your chambers and begin the cleansing forthwith. all the best William Shakespeare (ret)

Nice, I have to write a eulogy for a chinchilla that lives to be 6 days old 🙁

I just lost my husband of 43 years and i am lost of words as to how to start writing his tribute.

I love these eulogies. They are, indeed, some of the best ever given.

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[…] Best Eulogies  […]

Today we bury yet another fellow Of our generation; a stark reminder That we are mortal; that the end is near; That we are temporarily here!”

Boghos L. Artinian

Thanks for putting this together. I find myself reading books related to struggles in life and I was drawn to this blog. It was needed today and I appreciate your work.

Thank you Ollie 🙂 I really appreciate you!

[…] inspiration of what others in your situation wrote when they were in your shoes? Here are some examples of some truly inspiring words written in honor of deceased celebrities. And just remember, speak […]

i really enjoyed reading this. ouh

So glad you did!

[…] We wish you the best of luck on your eulogy writing process. Remember that you really can’t mess it up, and even if you do, everyone will be forgiving of you! If you want more inspiration for epic eulogies we recommend checking out these “Most Amazing Eulogies Of All Time”. […]

Michael Jackson’s dead

[…] A eulogy can be delivered by a family member, close friend, or religious leader, and is often a deeply personal and emotional expression of love and respect. In this article, we will explore the purpose and structure of eulogies, as well as offer tips and guidance on how to write and deliver a meaningful and impactful eulogy. […]

[…] cost and quality by planning ahead and finding different options. You can create a meaningful and memorable funeral experience for your loved one and your guests by making thoughtful decisions and taking into account their […]

Today we bury yet another fellow Of our generation; a stark reminder That we are mortal; that the end is near; That we are temporarily here!

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• Movies About Death

15 Famous Eulogies from Literature, Movies & History

Updated 06/10/2022

Published 04/10/2020

Belinda McLeod, BA in Secondary Education

Contributing writer

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Eulogies are speeches usually given at the deceased’s memorial service . Sometimes they’re given by a friend or family member, but other times an officiant writes the speech. 

Jump ahead to these sections:

Famous eulogies from literature, famous eulogies from movies, famous eulogies from history.

We’ve compiled some of the most powerful eulogies written for books and movies just in case you’re looking for inspiration as you write your loved one’s eulogy. We’ll also share some of the most famous tributes in history. 

Here are some eulogies to consider. Caution: There are spoilers in this article! Proceed with caution.

It’s easy to come up with a list of notable books where one of the main characters dies in the end, but it is harder to find examples that include the text of the eulogy for that main character. Here are some eulogy examples that we found in some of the most famous pieces of English literature. 

1. Mark Antony’s speech in Julius Caesar

William Shakespeare’s plays are chock-full of death, and readers can find plenty of examples when characters pause and reflect over the death of a friend. What about Mark Antony’s famous “Friends, Romans, countrymen” speech that appears in Julius Caesar ?

If it’s been a while since you were in sophomore English, you may not remember that Antony’s speech was used to turn the crowd against the conspirators who had stabbed Caesar. It’s worth reading again if you don’t still have it memorized from when you were 16 years old. 

2. Casy’s words for Grandpa in The Grapes of Wrath

The Joad family travels from Oklahoma to California during the Dust Bowl in John Steinbeck’s novel, The Grapes of Wrath . During the trip, Grandpa dies, and Reverend Casy is asked to speak a few words over his buried body.

His speech begins, “This here ol’ man jus’ lived a life an’ just died out of it. I don’t know whether he was good or bad, but that don’t matter much. He was alive, an’ that’s what matters.”

3. Narrator’s words for Charlotte the Spider in Charlotte’s Web

Was Charlotte the first fictional death you ever experienced? While Wilbur, the pig, and the rest of the animals didn’t have a formal funeral for Charlotte, the narrator offers tribute to the friendly arachnid with these final words: “It is not often that someone comes along who is a true friend and a good writer. Charlotte was both.”

4. Gus’ Eulogy Letter for Hazel from The Fault in Our Stars

We don’t want to confuse you with the name of this particular eulogy.

If you have read John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars , you may not remember that before he dies, Gus actually emails a eulogy for Hazel to her father. It’s a lovely eulogy full of flowery language. 

5. A “Tufty-Haired” Man’s Eulogy for Dumbledore in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

The reader doesn’t know who the “tufty-haired” man is who presents Albus Dumbledore’s eulogy in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince . We also don’t hear the full text. What the reader does get is a few random phrases, along with Harry’s reaction to the speech.

 “‘Nobility of spirit’…’ intellectual contribution’…’ greatness of heart’... It did not mean very much. It had little to do with Dumbledore as Harry had known him. He suddenly remembered Dumbledore’s idea of a few words, ‘nitwit,’ ‘oddment,’ ‘blubber,’ and ‘tweak,’ and again had to suppress a grin.”

While a lot of the examples on the previous list can also be found in movies, we also have these examples for you to consider. 

6. Matthew’s eulogy for Gareth in Four Weddings and a Funeral

Watch this poignant scene from the 1994 movie, Four Weddings and a Funeral if you haven’t already. For one thing,

it is beautifully acted by John Hannah, but it also includes one of our favorite funeral poems, written by W.H. Auden, called “Funeral Blues.”

7. Captain Kirk’s eulogy for Spock in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan

Captain Kirk can hardly get the words out when he says, “Of all the souls I encountered in my travels, his was the most human.”

Then bagpipes play, and Spock’s body is shot out into space. This is perhaps one of the most heartfelt moments within the entire series.

8. Daniel’s eulogy to his wife in Love, Actually

Liam Neeson’s character in Love, Actually explains that his wife chose her own way to say goodbye before he plays “Bye, Bye Baby” by the Bay City Rollers.

At first, the congregation seems shocked by the upbeat melody, but then they all begin to smile. 

9. Walter and the Dude eulogize Danny in The Big Lebowski

Walter tries to return Danny’s ashes to the “bosom of the Pacific Ocean,” after giving a eulogy in The Big Lebowski .

Instead, a breeze causes the ashes to fly back to cover the Dude’s hair, face, and sunglasses.

10. Daniel’s eulogy for his father in Death at a Funeral

The main character’s awkward eulogy is interrupted in the 2007 version of Death at a Funeral , when a thought-to-be-dead little person breaks out of the casket of the father. This extremely dark comedy stars Peter Dinklage. 

Many famous eulogies can be found throughout history. Here are a few we would like to highlight. 

11. Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks

If Oprah is involved, you know it has to be amazing. She was asked to give the eulogy for Civil Rights leader Rosa Parks in 2005.

She told the audience about hearing the story of Rosa Parks when she was a young girl living in the south. Oprah credited Parks as being the reason for her own success. 

12. Mona Simpson’s eulogy for Steve Jobs

Mona Simpson is the late Steve Jobs’ sister. She gave the eulogy for the tech giant in 2011. The last words of her eulogy were to recount Job’s own final words: “Oh wow, oh wow, oh wow.”

13. Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson

It’s always amazing when a person giving a tribute says something funny enough to get people to laugh. Read the full text of Frank Oz’s speech, where Oz describes a gift that Henson made for him, which included a tiny photograph of a naked Oz. Eulogies are the best if they were written by someone who knew the deceased well.

14. Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana

Princess Diana’s brother spoke at her service after her shocking death in 1997. His first lines set the tone of the speech: “I stand before you today, the representative of a family in grief in a country in mourning before a world in shock.”

The world was shocked when the Princess died in a car accident after being chased by the paparazzi. The royal family was in shock after Diana’s brother used some rather sharp words to describe Diana’s treatment by them.

15. John Cleese’s eulogy of Graham Chapman

John Cleese’s speech for Graham Chapman pushed boundaries — and that’s an understatement. The two worked together on Monty Python. You must have an idea of what type of eulogy Cleese presented if you’re familiar with this British comedy team. 

What Eulogies Should Be On the List?

It’s tricky narrowing down a list of eulogies in literature, movies, and history to only 15. After all, eulogies have probably been part of the world’s culture since the beginning of language. Which tributes are your favorite? 

Not all of these eulogies were written for real-life people, but they all have one thing in common. The writers all spent a great deal of time crafting their words to perfection. If you are tasked with writing the tribute speech for a loved one or a eulogy for mom , make sure you set aside enough time for the task. Chances are, it’ll take longer than you thought.

Categories:

• Quotes About Death

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10 Best Eulogies That Touched Our Hearts [Examples Included]

Eulogies play a crucial role in honoring the life of a loved one who has passed away. They provide an opportunity for family and friends to come together, share fond memories, and celebrate the unique qualities that made the deceased special. The best eulogies ever written not only pay tribute to the individual’s accomplishments and character but also offer a glimpse into the impact they had on the lives of others.

The process of writing and delivering a eulogy can be therapeutic for those grieving the loss of a loved one. Funeral eulogy examples often showcase a range of emotions, from heartfelt sadness to funny eulogy examples that bring laughter amidst the tears. Famous eulogies, such as Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks, have resonated with people around the world and demonstrated the power of words in helping loved ones cope with grief.

In this blog post, we will explore ten unforgettable eulogies that touched our hearts for beloved family members and friends. These eulogy examples, including short eulogy examples like Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson, capture the essence of the person’s character and leave listeners with a beautiful eulogy that lingers in their minds long after the funeral speeches have ended.

Whether you are tasked with writing a eulogy for a close friend or family member, or simply wish to read some of the best eulogies in history, these examples will inspire you and demonstrate the profound impact that a well-crafted tribute can have on those left behind.

II. What Makes a Eulogy Unforgettable

A. emotional connection.

The best eulogy ever written is one that establishes an emotional connection with the audience. Funeral eulogy examples that resonate with listeners often elicit a range of emotions, from heart-wrenching sadness to laughter brought on by funny eulogy examples. For instance, Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks all managed to touch our hearts through their sincere and heartfelt words.

B. Capturing the essence of the person’s life

An unforgettable eulogy captures the essence of the deceased’s character and shares fond memories that pay tribute to their entire life. Famous eulogies, such as Mona Simpson’s eulogy for her brother Steve Jobs or Frank Oz’s eulogy for his close friend Jim Henson, paint a vivid picture of the person’s life, showcasing their unique qualities and the impact they had on those around them. By including personal anecdotes and touching moments, a beautiful eulogy allows us to remember the person for who they truly were.

C. Inspiring messages and lessons

Eulogy examples that leave a lasting impression often contain inspiring messages and life lessons. These eulogies not only pay tribute to the deceased but also inspire us to reflect on our own lives and appreciate the time we have with our loved ones. For example, British memorial services often include eulogies that share wisdom and insight gleaned from the person’s life experiences. A great eulogy can impart valuable lessons, reminding us of the importance of love, family, and friendship, and how much one person can impact the lives of others.

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III. 10 Best Eulogies That Touched Our Hearts

A. Earl Spencer’s Eulogy for Princess Diana

Earl Spencer delivered one of the best eulogies ever at his sister, Princess Diana’s funeral. His heartfelt words captured her essence and the fond memories they shared, making it a perfect example of a beautiful eulogy:

“I stand before you today, the representative of a family in grief in a country in mourning before a world in shock.

We are all united not only in our desire to pay our respects to Diana but rather in our need to do so.

For such was her extraordinary appeal that the tens of millions of people taking part in this service all over the world via television and radio who never actually met her, feel that they too lost someone close to them in the early hours of Sunday morning. It is a more remarkable tribute to Diana than I can ever hope to offer her today.

Diana was the very essence of compassion, of duty, of style, of beauty. All over the world she was a symbol of selfless humanity. All over the world, a standard bearer for the rights of the truly downtrodden, a very British girl who transcended nationality. Someone with a natural nobility who was classless and who proved in the last year that she needed no royal title to continue to generate her particular brand of magic.

Today is our chance to say thank you for the way you brightened our lives, even though God granted you but half a life. We will all feel cheated always that you were taken from us so young and yet we must learn to be grateful that you came along at all. Only now that you are gone do we truly appreciate what we are now without and we want you to know that life without you is very, very difficult.

We have all despaired at our loss over the past week and only the strength of the message you gave us through your years of giving has afforded us the strength to move forward.

There is a temptation to rush to canonize your memory, there is no need to do so. You stand tall enough as a human being of unique qualities not to need to be seen as a saint. Indeed to sanctify your memory would be to miss out on the very core of your being, your wonderfully mischievous sense of humor with a laugh that bent you double.

Your joy for life transmitted where ever you took your smile and the sparkle in those unforgettable eyes. Your boundless energy which you could barely contain.

But your greatest gift was your intuition and it was a gift you used wisely. This is what underpinned all your other wonderful attributes and if we look to analyze what it was about you that had such a wide appeal we find it in your instinctive feel for what was really important in all our lives.

Without your God-given sensitivity we would be immersed in greater ignorance at the anguish of AIDS and H.I.V. sufferers, the plight of the homeless, the isolation of lepers, the random destruction of landmines.

Diana explained to me once that it was her innermost feelings of suffering that made it possible for her to connect with her constituency of the rejected. And here we come to another truth about her. For all the status, the glamour, the applause, Diana remained throughout a very insecure person at heart, almost childlike in her desire to do good for others so she could release herself from deep feelings of unworthiness of which her eating disorders were merely a symptom.

The world sensed this part of her character and cherished her for her vulnerability whilst admiring her for her honesty.

The last time I saw Diana was on July 1, her birthday in London, when typically she was not taking time to celebrate her special day with friends but was guest of honor at a special charity fund-raising evening. She sparkled of course, but I would rather cherish the days I spent with her in March when she came to visit me and my children in our home in South Africa. I am proud of the fact apart from when she was on display meeting President Mandela we managed to contrive to stop the ever-present paparazzi from getting a single picture of her — that meant a lot to her.

These were days I will always treasure. It was as if we had been transported back to our childhood when we spent such an enormous amount of time together — the two youngest in the family.

Fundamentally she had not changed at all from the big sister who mothered me as a baby, fought with me at school and endured those long train journeys between our parents’ homes with me at weekends.

It is a tribute to her level-headedness and strength that despite the most bizarre-like life imaginable after her childhood, she remained intact, true to herself.

There is no doubt that she was looking for a new direction in her life at this time. She talked endlessly of getting away from England, mainly because of the treatment that she received at the hands of the newspapers. I don’t think she ever understood why her genuinely good intentions were sneered at by the media, why there appeared to be a permanent quest on their behalf to bring her down. It is baffling. My own and only explanation is that genuine goodness is threatening to those at the opposite end of the moral spectrum. It is a point to remember that of all the ironies about Diana, perhaps the greatest was this — a girl given the name of the ancient goddess of hunting was, in the end, the most hunted person of the modern age.

She would want us today to pledge ourselves to protecting her beloved boys William and Harry from a similar fate and I do this here Diana on your behalf. We will not allow them to suffer the anguish that used regularly to drive you to tearful despair.

And beyond that, on behalf of your mother and sisters, I pledge that we, your blood family, will do all we can to continue the imaginative and loving way in which you were steering these two exceptional young men so that their souls are not simply immersed by duty and tradition, but can sing openly as you planned.

We fully respect the heritage into which they have both been born and will always respect and encourage them in their royal role. But we, like you, recognize the need for them to experience as many different aspects of life as possible to arm them spiritually and emotionally for the years ahead. I know you would have expected nothing less from us.

William and Harry, we all cared desperately for you today. We are all chewed up with the sadness at the loss of a woman who was not even our mother. How great your suffering is, we cannot even imagine.

I would like to end by thanking God for the small mercies he has shown us at this dreadful time. For taking Diana at her most beautiful and radiant and when she had joy in her private life. Above all we give thanks for the life of a woman I am so proud to be able to call my sister, the unique, the complex, the extraordinary and irreplaceable Diana whose beauty, both internal and external, will never be extinguished from our minds.”

B. John Cleese’s Eulogy for Graham Chapman

John Cleese ‘s eulogy for his Monty Python co-star and close friend, Graham Chapman, showcased his unique sense of humor. The funny eulogy examples in this speech brought laughter amidst the tears during the British memorial service:

“PGraham Chapman, co-author of the ‘Parrot Sketch,’ is no more.

He has ceased to be, bereft of life, he rests in peace, he has kicked the bucket, hopped the twig, bit the dust, snuffed it, breathed his last, and gone to meet the Great Head of Light Entertainment in the sky, and I guess that we’re all thinking how sad it is that a man of such talent, such capability and kindness, of such intelligence should now be so suddenly spirited away at the age of only forty-eight, before he’d achieved many of the things of which he was capable, and before he’d had enough fun.

Well, I feel that I should say, “Nonsense. Good riddance to him, the freeloading bastard! I hope he fries. ”

And the reason I think I should say this is, he would never forgive me if I didn’t, if I threw away this opportunity to shock you all on his behalf. Anything for him but mindless good taste. I could hear him whispering in my ear last night as I was writing this:

“Alright, Cleese, you’re very proud of being the first person to ever say ‘sh**’ on television. If this service is really for me, just for starters, I want you to be the first person ever at a British memorial service to say ‘f***’!”

You see, the trouble is, I can’t. If he were here with me now I would probably have the courage, because he always emboldened me. But the truth is, I lack his balls, his splendid defiance. And so I’ll have to content myself instead with saying ‘Betty Mardsen…’

But bolder and less inhibited spirits than me follow today. Jones and Idle, Gilliam and Palin. Heaven knows what the next hour will bring in Graham’s name. Trousers dropping, blasphemers on pogo sticks, spectacular displays of high-speed farting, synchronized incest. One of the four is planning to stuff a dead ocelot and a 1922 Remington typewriter up his own arse to the sound of the second movement of Elgar’s cello concerto. And that’s in the first half.

Because you see, Gray would have wanted it this way. Really. Anything for him but mindless good taste. And that’s what I’ll always remember about him—apart, of course, from his Olympian extravagance. He was the prince of bad taste. He loved to shock. In fact, Gray, more than anyone I knew, embodied and symbolised all that was most offensive and juvenile in Monty Python. And his delight in shocking people led him on to greater and greater feats. I like to think of him as the pioneering beacon that beat the path along which fainter spirits could follow.

Some memories. I remember writing the undertaker speech with him, and him suggesting the punch line, ‘All right, we’ll eat her, but if you feel bad about it afterwards, we’ll dig a grave and you can throw up into it.’ I remember discovering in 1969, when we wrote every day at the flat where Connie Booth and I lived, that he’d recently discovered the game of printing four-letter words on neat little squares of paper, and then quietly placing them at strategic points around our flat, forcing Connie and me into frantic last minute paper chases whenever we were expecting important guests.

I remember him at BBC parties crawling around on all fours, rubbing himself affectionately against the legs of gray-suited executives, and delicately nibbling the more appetizing female calves. Mrs. Eric Morecambe remembers that too.

I remember his being invited to speak at the Oxford union, and entering the chamber dressed as a carrot—a full length orange tapering costume with a large, bright green sprig as a hat—-and then, when his turn came to speak, refusing to do so. He just stood there, literally speechless, for twenty minutes, smiling beatifically. The only time in world history that a totally silent man has succeeded in inciting a riot.

I remember Graham receiving a Sun newspaper TV award from Reggie Maudling. Who else! And taking the trophy falling to the ground and crawling all the way back to his table, screaming loudly, as loudly as he could. And if you remember Gray, that was very loud indeed.

It is magnificent, isn’t it? You see, the thing about shock… is not that it upsets some people, I think; I think that it gives others a momentary joy of liberation, as we realised in that instant that the social rules that constrict our lives so terribly are not actually very important.

Well, Gray can’t do that for us anymore. He’s gone. He is an ex-Chapman. All we have of him now is our memories. But it will be some time before they fade.”

C. Oprah Winfrey’s Eulogy for Rosa Parks

Oprah Winfrey’s tribute to civil rights icon Rosa Parks was an inspiring and emotional eulogy that highlighted Parks’ courage and impact on the world. This famous eulogy left a lasting impression on those who heard it:

“To Reverend Braxton, family, friends, admirers, and this amazing choir:

I — I feel it an honor to be here to come and say a final goodbye.

I grew up in the South, and Rosa Parks was a hero to me long before I recognized and understood the power and impact that her life embodied. I remember my father telling me about this colored woman who had refused to give up her seat. And in my child’s mind, I thought, “She must be really big.” I thought she must be at least a hundred feet tall. I imagined her being stalwart and strong and carrying a shield to hold back the white folks.

And then I grew up and had the esteemed honor of meeting her. And wasn’t that a surprise. Here was this petite, almost delicate lady who was the personification of grace and goodness. And I thanked her then. I said, “Thank you,” for myself and for every colored girl, every colored boy, who didn’t have heroes who were celebrated.

I thanked her then.

And after our first meeting I realized that God uses good people to do great things. And I’m here today to say a final thank you, Sister Rosa, for being a great woman who used your life to serve, to serve us all. That day that you refused to give up your seat on the bus, you, Sister Rosa, changed the trajectory of my life and the lives of so many other people in the world. I would not be standing here today nor standing where I stand every day had she not chosen to sit down. I know that. I know that. I know that. I know that, and I honor that. Had she not chosen to say we shall not — we shall not be moved.

So I thank you again, Sister Rosa, for not only confronting the one white man who[se] seat you took, not only confronting the bus driver, not only for confronting the law, but for confronting history, a history that for 400 years said that you were not even worthy of a glance, certainly no consideration. I thank you for not moving.

And in that moment when you resolved to stay in that seat, you reclaimed your humanity and you gave us all back a piece of our own. I thank you for that. I thank you for acting without concern. I often thought about what that took, knowing the climate of the times and what could have happened to you, what it took to stay seated. You acted without concern for yourself and made life better for us all. We shall not be moved.

I marvel at your will.

I celebrate your strength to this day.

And I am forever grateful, Sister Rosa, for your courage, your conviction.

I owe you — to succeed.

I will not be moved.”

D. Mona Simpson’s Eulogy for Steve Jobs

Mona Simpson’s eulogy for her brother, Steve Jobs, paid tribute to the life of one of the greatest innovators of our time. Her touching speech included personal stories and happy memories that captured his character and spirit:

“I grew up as an only child, with a single mother. Because we were poor and because I knew my father had emigrated from Syria, I imagined he looked like Omar Sharif. I hoped he would be rich and kind and would come into our lives (and our not yet furnished apartment) and help us. Later, after I’d met my father, I tried to believe he’d changed his number and left no forwarding address because he was an idealistic revolutionary, plotting a new world for the Arab people.

Even as a feminist, my whole life I’d been waiting for a man to love, who could love me. For decades, I’d thought that man would be my father. When I was 25, I met that man and he was my brother.

By then, I lived in New York, where I was trying to write my first novel. I had a job at a small magazine in an office the size of a closet, with three other aspiring writers. When one day a lawyer called me — me, the middle-class girl from California who hassled the boss to buy us health insurance — and said his client was rich and famous and was my long-lost brother, the young editors went wild. This was 1985 and we worked at a cutting-edge literary magazine, but I’d fallen into the plot of a Dickens novel and really, we all loved those best. The lawyer refused to tell me my brother’s name and my colleagues started a betting pool. The leading candidate: John Travolta. I secretly hoped for a literary descendant of Henry James — someone more talented than I, someone brilliant without even trying.

When I met Steve, he was a guy my age in jeans, Arab- or Jewish-looking and handsomer than Omar Sharif.

We took a long walk — something, it happened, that we both liked to do. I don’t remember much of what we said that first day, only that he felt like someone I’d pick to be a friend. He explained that he worked in computers.

I didn’t know much about computers. I still worked on a manual Olivetti typewriter.

I told Steve I’d recently considered my first purchase of a computer: something called the Cromemco.

Steve told me it was a good thing I’d waited. He said he was making something that was going to be insanely beautiful.

I want to tell you a few things I learned from Steve, during three distinct periods, over the 27 years I knew him. They’re not periods of years, but of states of being. His full life. His illness. His dying.

Steve worked at what he loved. He worked really hard. Every day.

That’s incredibly simple, but true.

He was the opposite of absent-minded.

He was never embarrassed about working hard, even if the results were failures. If someone as smart as Steve wasn’t ashamed to admit trying, maybe I didn’t have to be.

When he got kicked out of Apple, things were painful. He told me about a dinner at which 500 Silicon Valley leaders met the then-sitting president. Steve hadn’t been invited.

He was hurt but he still went to work at Next. Every single day.

Novelty was not Steve’s highest value. Beauty was.

For an innovator, Steve was remarkably loyal. If he loved a shirt, he’d order 10 or 100 of them. In the Palo Alto house, there are probably enough black cotton turtlenecks for everyone in this church.

He didn’t favor trends or gimmicks. He liked people his own age.

His philosophy of aesthetics reminds me of a quote that went something like this: “Fashion is what seems beautiful now but looks ugly later; art can be ugly at first but it becomes beautiful later.”

Steve always aspired to make beautiful later.

He was willing to be misunderstood.

Uninvited to the ball, he drove the third or fourth iteration of his same black sports car to Next, where he and his team were quietly inventing the platform on which Tim Berners-Lee would write the program for the World Wide Web.

Steve was like a girl in the amount of time he spent talking about love. Love was his supreme virtue, his god of gods. He tracked and worried about the romantic lives of the people working with him.

Whenever he saw a man he thought a woman might find dashing, he called out, “Hey are you single? Do you wanna come to dinner with my sister?”

I remember when he phoned the day he met Laurene. “There’s this beautiful woman and she’s really smart and she has this dog and I’m going to marry her.”

When Reed was born, he began gushing and never stopped. He was a physical dad, with each of his children. He fretted over Lisa’s boyfriends and Erin’s travel and skirt lengths and Eve’s safety around the horses she adored.

None of us who attended Reed’s graduation party will ever forget the scene of Reed and Steve slow dancing.

His abiding love for Laurene sustained him. He believed that love happened all the time, everywhere. In that most important way, Steve was never ironic, never cynical, never pessimistic. I try to learn from that, still.

Steve had been successful at a young age, and he felt that had isolated him. Most of the choices he made from the time I knew him were designed to dissolve the walls around him. A middle-class boy from Los Altos, he fell in love with a middle-class girl from New Jersey. It was important to both of them to raise Lisa, Reed, Erin and Eve as grounded, normal children. Their house didn’t intimidate with art or polish; in fact, for many of the first years I knew Steve and Lo together, dinner was served on the grass, and sometimes consisted of just one vegetable. Lots of that one vegetable. But one. Broccoli. In season. Simply prepared. With just the right, recently snipped, herb.

Even as a young millionaire, Steve always picked me up at the airport. He’d be standing there in his jeans.

When a family member called him at work, his secretary Linetta answered, “Your dad’s in a meeting. Would you like me to interrupt him?”

When Reed insisted on dressing up as a witch every Halloween, Steve, Laurene, Erin and Eve all went wiccan.

They once embarked on a kitchen remodel; it took years. They cooked on a hotplate in the garage. The Pixar building, under construction during the same period, finished in half the time. And that was it for the Palo Alto house. The bathrooms stayed old. But — and this was a crucial distinction — it had been a great house to start with; Steve saw to that.

This is not to say that he didn’t enjoy his success: he enjoyed his success a lot, just minus a few zeros. He told me how much he loved going to the Palo Alto bike store and gleefully realizing he could afford to buy the best bike there.

And he did.

Steve was humble. Steve liked to keep learning.

Once, he told me if he’d grown up differently, he might have become a mathematician. He spoke reverently about colleges and loved walking around the Stanford campus. In the last year of his life, he studied a book of paintings by Mark Rothko, an artist he hadn’t known about before, thinking of what could inspire people on the walls of a future Apple campus.

Steve cultivated whimsy. What other C.E.O. knows the history of English and Chinese tea roses and has a favorite David Austin rose?

He had surprises tucked in all his pockets. I’ll venture that Laurene will discover treats — songs he loved, a poem he cut out and put in a drawer — even after 20 years of an exceptionally close marriage. I spoke to him every other day or so, but when I opened The New York Times and saw a feature on the company’s patents, I was still surprised and delighted to see a sketch for a perfect staircase.

With his four children, with his wife, with all of us, Steve had a lot of fun.

He treasured happiness.

Then, Steve became ill and we watched his life compress into a smaller circle. Once, he’d loved walking through Paris. He’d discovered a small handmade soba shop in Kyoto. He downhill skied gracefully. He cross-country skied clumsily. No more.

Eventually, even ordinary pleasures, like a good peach, no longer appealed to him.

Yet, what amazed me, and what I learned from his illness, was how much was still left after so much had been taken away.

I remember my brother learning to walk again, with a chair. After his liver transplant, once a day he would get up on legs that seemed too thin to bear him, arms pitched to the chair back. He’d push that chair down the Memphis hospital corridor towards the nursing station and then he’d sit down on the chair, rest, turn around and walk back again. He counted his steps and, each day, pressed a little farther.

Laurene got down on her knees and looked into his eyes.

“You can do this, Steve,” she said. His eyes widened. His lips pressed into each other.

He tried. He always, always tried, and always with love at the core of that effort. He was an intensely emotional man.

I realized during that terrifying time that Steve was not enduring the pain for himself. He set destinations: his son Reed’s graduation from high school, his daughter Erin’s trip to Kyoto, the launching of a boat he was building on which he planned to take his family around the world and where he hoped he and Laurene would someday retire.

Even ill, his taste, his discrimination and his judgment held. He went through 67 nurses before finding kindred spirits and then he completely trusted the three who stayed with him to the end. Tracy. Arturo. Elham.

One time when Steve had contracted a tenacious pneumonia his doctor forbid everything — even ice. We were in a standard I.C.U. unit. Steve, who generally disliked cutting in line or dropping his own name, confessed that this once, he’d like to be treated a little specially.

I told him: Steve, this is special treatment.

He leaned over to me, and said: “I want it to be a little more special.”

Intubated, when he couldn’t talk, he asked for a notepad. He sketched devices to hold an iPad in a hospital bed. He designed new fluid monitors and x-ray equipment. He redrew that not-quite-special-enough hospital unit. And every time his wife walked into the room, I watched his smile remake itself on his face.

For the really big, big things, you have to trust me, he wrote on his sketchpad. He looked up. You have to.

By that, he meant that we should disobey the doctors and give him a piece of ice.

None of us knows for certain how long we’ll be here. On Steve’s better days, even in the last year, he embarked upon projects and elicited promises from his friends at Apple to finish them. Some boat builders in the Netherlands have a gorgeous stainless steel hull ready to be covered with the finishing wood. His three daughters remain unmarried, his two youngest still girls, and he’d wanted to walk them down the aisle as he’d walked me the day of my wedding.

We all — in the end — die in medias res. In the middle of a story. Of many stories.

I suppose it’s not quite accurate to call the death of someone who lived with cancer for years unexpected, but Steve’s death was unexpected for us.

What I learned from my brother’s death was that character is essential: What he was, was how he died.

Tuesday morning, he called me to ask me to hurry up to Palo Alto. His tone was affectionate, dear, loving, but like someone whose luggage was already strapped onto the vehicle, who was already on the beginning of his journey, even as he was sorry, truly deeply sorry, to be leaving us.

He started his farewell and I stopped him. I said, “Wait. I’m coming. I’m in a taxi to the airport. I’ll be there.”

“I’m telling you now because I’m afraid you won’t make it on time, honey.”

When I arrived, he and his Laurene were joking together like partners who’d lived and worked together every day of their lives. He looked into his children’s eyes as if he couldn’t unlock his gaze.

Until about 2 in the afternoon, his wife could rouse him, to talk to his friends from Apple.

Then, after awhile, it was clear that he would no longer wake to us.

His breathing changed. It became severe, deliberate, purposeful. I could feel him counting his steps again, pushing farther than before.

This is what I learned: he was working at this, too. Death didn’t happen to Steve, he achieved it.

He told me, when he was saying goodbye and telling me he was sorry, so sorry we wouldn’t be able to be old together as we’d always planned, that he was going to a better place.

Dr. Fischer gave him a 50/50 chance of making it through the night.

He made it through the night, Laurene next to him on the bed sometimes jerked up when there was a longer pause between his breaths. She and I looked at each other, then he would heave a deep breath and begin again.

This had to be done. Even now, he had a stern, still handsome profile, the profile of an absolutist, a romantic. His breath indicated an arduous journey, some steep path, altitude.

He seemed to be climbing.

But with that will, that work ethic, that strength, there was also sweet Steve’s capacity for wonderment, the artist’s belief in the ideal, the still more beautiful later.

Steve’s final words, hours earlier, were monosyllables, repeated three times.

Before embarking, he’d looked at his sister Patty, then for a long time at his children, then at his life’s partner, Laurene, and then over their shoulders past them.

Steve’s final words were:

OH WOW. OH WOW. OH WOW.”

E. Frank Oz’s Eulogy for Jim Henson

Frank Oz’s short eulogy for his close friend and creative partner, Jim Henson, demonstrated the special bond they shared. This heartfelt eulogy showcased Henson’s playful nature and the joy he brought to those around him:

“Jim and I were opposites in so many ways.

I think it worked mainly because of patience and understanding, that which we had together both personally and in performance. And in the creative partnership that I shared with him and others.

I knew, not all the time, but in the last fifteen years or so, that he was a very singular human being.

Looking here I think I only realise now how large a man this was. This man that I just worked with and played with, and had so much fun with.

And we did have fun, we had such great silly fun together. The best thing of all—the best thing—is when you watched Jim laugh until he cried. It usually happened when we were recording something, or performing with the gang … and we’d get so punch and silly at two in the morning. And Jim would … just get that high whine … and he couldn’t speak, and the tears were rolling down, and he’d try to add to the joke and he just couldn’t do it, and it was the best thing to see because you knew he was always busy and always working under pressure. And thinking, it was such a purge and a release—it was wonderful, the best thing to see him do that.

I can’t tell you how much he supported me. I joined when I was 19, 27 years ago, and he’s given me the most amazing opportunities. And he’s taught me so much, just by being the person that he is. It’s very important to me. There’s so much to tell. Let me just zero in on one little thing.

About fifteen years ago, we were doing Saturday Night Live, the first year of Saturday Night Live, Jim and I and a few others of the gang were doing some puppets there. And it was before Christmas , and it was just prior to dress rehearsal and the other guys had gone away to have lunch or something, so Jim and I were hanging around the halls, and as I recall in the hallway Jim came up with a camera. And he said in his own quiet, enthusiastic way, he said, ‘Frank, I need to go in a dressing room with you, and um, see if you’d take off all of your clothes soI could take a picture of you naked?’

I said, ‘whoooa!’ I said, ‘what?’

He said ‘I really need to do this, I need to take some photos of you naked.’

We discussed this for a while.

I said, ‘okay, alright’.

So we went in the dressing room, and I took off all my clothes, buck naked. Locked the door of course.

And he told me how to pose.

He said, ‘put your hands over your genitals,’ which I was glad to do, ‘Bend over like this, and look into the camera in a state of shock,’ – which was not difficult at that time.

So I bent over and I looked, like that, and he took some photos of me naked. Okay, no problem. Um. I got dressed, we did the show.

It was Christmas time, he gave me a gift. The gift was about this large, I have it, and the gift, I’ll describe it to you, it’s difficult, it’s made of some of Bert’s toys. It was a wall hanging, sculpture kinda thing, about this big. And it was a head of Bert, and Bert’s arms are holding a ledge, and on the ledge are about a dozen little Berts, tiny Berts that you can buy in the store at that time, about an inch and a half high , and you could turn them in different direction, looking over there, looking over there, and you could turn them back to look at the Big Bert’s head while the Big Bert was looking down at the Little Berts. And on that ledge underneath the Berts, were faces, photographs that Jim had obviously taken of many of the workshop people who were responsible in the making of Bert, and certainly all of which were responsible in the making of The Muppets. And they were all looking up to camera, and their little faces were tiny , about that big, all along the top of the ledge.

On the edge of this wooden ledge, Jim had painted layers, these striations, which were I gathered like layers of Bert’s mind. Layers of Bert’s soul. By the way I do Bert to Jim’s Ernie. And within those layers, the striations, he’d painted textures, beautiful little textures.

And then, I noticed, Bert’s eyes, the large Bert, Bert’s eyes, the pupils were cut out.

And you look inside Bert’s brain, and there I am naked, looking like this.

I knew he had a good reason.

I say that, to share that with you … oh by the way, he titled that ‘Bert in Self Contemplation’. I share it with you because so much of Jim is in that gift. The detail that he loved so much – Persian rugs and trees and the like – the details in the layers, the textures in which he had so much fun. I’d just see him hunched over all gleeful, doing this.

I could just see him cutting all those photo out so he doesn’t cut the ears or the noses off of people, he pasted them on himself. And the generosity of time in order to do this when he was so busy.

The generosity of taking the time to do it.

And not only the giving of the gift, but the anticipation of giving. I can’t tell you so many times Jim would say to me, ‘Oh I can’t wait to give this gift to Janie, or Brian or David, or whoever. The anticipation of giving was so wonderful with Jim. And the complexity of that gift, Bert looking at himself, me inside, the little Berts looking at the people around, the complexity, inwardness of that. And the simplicity of the concept was also Jim. And the quality of the gift, and the craftsmanship, and it all speaks so much of Jim, that gift. And I think the love … I think that’s when I knew … he loved me and I loved him.”

F. Cher’s Eulogy for Sonny Bono

Cher shared a moving tribute to her former husband and creative partner, Sonny Bono, after his tragic car accident. Her emotional eulogy recounted their earliest memories together and highlighted their enduring love and friendship:

Please excuse my papers, but I’ve been writing this stupid eulogy for the last 48 hours. And, of course, I know that this would make Sonny really happy. It’s like Den said: “He got the last laugh.”

So because I’ve had to write some of it down doesn’t mean that I’m unprepared. It just means that I’m over prepared in that this is probably the most important thing I’ve ever done in my life. Don’t pay any attention [weeping]. This is probably going to happen from time to time. And I also know that he is some place loving this Also, I have to wear the glasses that I made so much fun of him. I called him Mr. Magoo. I said, “You know, you’ve got to get some better glasses. You know, I don’t care if you’re Republican or not, you’ve got to look cooler than this.” So now I have to wear the glasses that I make fun of him for saying. There are a couple of things — I want to tell some stories — but there are a couple of things I really want to get perfect for him. So I have to read.

Some people were under the misconception that Son was a short man, but he was heads and tails taller than anyone else. He could see above the tallest people. He had a vision of the future and just how he was going to build it. And his enthusiasm was so great that he just swept ever body along with him. Not that we knew where he was going, but we just wanted to be there (audience laughs). He was also successful at anything he ever tried. Not the first time he tried maybe, but he just kept going. If he really wanted something, he kept going until he achieved it. Once he told me that, when he was a teenager, he got his nose broken six times because he used to get into fights with guys that were much bigger than him. And he said that they would just be beating the crap out of him and would just be keep going back and going back and going back. I said, “Well, why?” And he said, “Because eventually I would just wear them down.” (audience laughs). And if you know him, we all got worn down.

Some people thought that Son wasn’t very bright, but he was smart enough to take an introverted 16-year-old girl and a scrappy little Italian guy with a bad voice and turn them into the most successful and beloved couple of this generation. And some people thought that Son wasn’t to be taken seriously because he allowed himself to be the butt of the jokes on the Sonny and Cher show. What people don’t realize is that he created Sonny and Cher. And he knew what was right for us, you know? He just always knew the right thing. And he wanted to make people laugh so much that he had the confidence to be the butt of the joke because he created the joke.

When I was 16-years-old, I met Sonny — Salvatore Philip Bono. And the first time I ever saw him, he walked in this room. And I had never seen anything like him before in my life. Because he was Sonny way before we were Sonny and Cher. He had this thing about him. He walked into this room, and I swear to God I saw him and like everybody else in this room was just washed away in this soft focus filter — kind of like when Maria saw Tony at the dance. And I looked at him, and he had like this weird hair-do between Caesar and Napoleon. As a matter of fact, one of the first things that he ever told me was that he was a descendent of Napoleon, and that his father had shortened the name of Bonaparte to Bono when he came to this country. But that he didn’t want to make too big a deal out of this. Now you have to realize, at this time, he was talking to a girl who thought that Mount Rushmore was a natural phenomenon. So we were definitely a marriage made in heaven.

I lied to him about how old I was. I’ve told this story, but somehow it always keeps coming back. I told him that I was 18, and of course I wasn’t. I was the most bizarre 16-year-old that you probably would come across. I had all kinds of phobias and all kinds of insecurities and all kinds of energies that just couldn’t be harnessed. Except Son saw something. And I didn’t have a place to stay and he said, “You know, you can come and live with me because I have twin beds and really I don’t find you attractive.” I didn’t really know how to take it, but I was really glad to have a place to stay.

And when people would call or come over and say, “Who’s that girl?” “Oh, that’s just Cher.” We spent this whole time together and I was just Cher. I was this kid and he kind of took care of me. I told my mom I was living with a stewardess. And every time that my mom would call, I always said, “Mom, call me before you come over.” Every time my mom would call, I’d grab all of Sonny’s clothes and run down the street and throw all his clothes into my girlfriend’s living room window. And I lost most of his clothes that year. One time he came into the house and he had his jockey shorts in his hand and he said, “Cher, you’ve just got to stop doing this. I found these on the street.”

So nothing happened with us romantically until my mom made me move out. When I was packing my things, we both just looked at each other and we started crying and I didn’t even know why. And then I just realized once I was there that I just missed him so much — I was so used to him being a part of my life. And I also had to tell him at that time that I wasn’t 18. That I was 17, but I was about to turn 18. And when we were crying — he actually cried too — I said, “Well, I’m not 17 about to turn 18. I’m 16 about to turn 17, but I can’t go through the rest of my life without you. So if my mother threatens to put you in jail, could you just do it anyway.” So my mother kept threatening him all that year. But then I turned 18 and everything was all right.

I want to close, but I wanted to tell Mary and Chesare and Chianna how proud I am of what he made himself after we were separated and his accomplishments. And I know that a person just doesn’t decide to become a Congressman in the middle of their life and then be one.

But it’s just so typical of Sonny to do something so crazy like that. And also it puts my mind at peace to know that in the end of his days that he had such a wonderful family life. And I know how much he loved Mary and Chesare and Chianna. And I know how much they loved him. And also I know how much he loved his friends. He was the greatest friend. If you’d seen our house for the last five days — Mary’s house for the last five days — we can’t get rid of everybody. Everybody’s just there, you know. And it’s the way you would have wanted it. He would have been in the middle cooking — not eating, just tasting. And making everybody else eat.

So the last thing I want to say is, when I was young, there was this section in the Reader’s Digest. It was called “The Most Unforgettable Character I’ve Ever Met.” And for me that person is Sonny Bono. And no matter how long I live or who I meet in my life, that person will always be Sonny for me.”

G. Personal Eulogy Example: A Daughter’s Tribute to Her Beloved Mother

In this poignant eulogy example, a daughter beautifully captures her mother’s essence, sharing fond memories and emphasizing the loving relationship they shared throughout her entire life:

“Distinguished friends and family,

I stand before you today with a heavy heart, a heart overflowing with sorrow and yet brimming with the sweetest memories. Memories of a woman who was not only my mother, but my confidante, my cheerleader, my friend, my very north star, guiding me through life. Today, we bid farewell to Donna, a woman who was many things to many people, but to me, she was simply Mom.

Mom was a woman who wore many hats and wore them all with grace and dignity. She was a teacher, a counselor, a nurse, a chauffeur, and the best homemade cookie maker in the universe. But beyond these roles, she was a story-teller, weaving tales that brought laughter, reflection, wisdom, and occasionally, a necessary reality check.

Mom had an infectious laugh, hearty and wholesome. She would laugh at her own jokes before she finished telling them. And we laughed with her, not necessarily because the joke was funny, but because her joy was so infectious that you couldn’t help but join in.

One of my fondest memories of Mom is our late-night talks, under a blanket of stars, with a cup of hot chocolate in our hands. On those chilly nights, the world around us would fade, and we would embark on wonderful journeys through her stories and memories. She had this magical ability to turn a mundane day into an epic adventure. She painted the world in such beautiful colors, and she gave me the lens to see it that way.

Mom was never one for grand gestures, but it was her subtle acts of kindness that spoke volumes. I remember one winter, our elderly neighbor Mrs. Henderson, who lived alone, fell sick. Without a second thought, Mom packed up a basket of homemade soup and bread, wrapped herself in a thick coat, and trudged through the snowy night to make sure Mrs. Henderson wasn’t alone. That was Mom – her heart as warm as the summer sun.

Mom taught me to live fiercely and love deeply. She loved us unconditionally, beyond any fault or mistake. When I faltered, she was there to lift me up. When I celebrated, she was there clapping the loudest. She was my constant, the unchanging love in an ever-changing world.

When I became a mother myself, it was Mom’s wisdom and patience that guided me. Every late-night phone call, every panicked question about a fever or a rash, Mom was there. And even in her final days, in her quiet, subtle way, she continued teaching. Her bravery, her grace, her unwavering love for us, served as the ultimate lesson of life.

Losing Mom feels like losing the sun. Our world feels a bit dimmer without her radiant light. But the beautiful thing about the sun is, even when it sets, it never truly leaves. It leaves behind a lingering glow, a beautiful promise of a new day. And so does Mom. She has left us, yes, but she leaves behind the glow of her love, the echo of her laughter, the memories of her stories, her values, her lessons, and the imprints of her kindness. She continues to live in each one of us.

So today, as we bid goodbye to Donna, to Mom, let us remember not with tears but with smiles. Let’s remember her hearty laughter, her magical stories, her selfless love, and her unwavering spirit. Let us celebrate her life, let us carry her in our hearts, and let her legacy live on through us.

To my beautiful Mom, you were and will always be my guiding star. Your light will never dim in my heart. I love you, and I miss you. Until we meet again.”

H. Personal Eulogy Example: A Father Remembered by His Son

This touching eulogy by a son for his father showcases the strength of their bond and the lessons he learned from his father’s life, making it an unforgettable tribute:

“Dear Family and Friends,

Today, we are gathered to honor and say our final goodbye to a man who has left an indelible mark on our lives, a man who is not just my father but my mentor, my hero, my best friend – Peter.

As I stand here, looking at each face, I see reflections of my father in each one of us, and I am reminded of the profound impact he has had on our lives. I am reminded of the values he stood for, the strength he embodied, and the love he spread.

My father was a man of few words, but when he spoke, his words held the weight of the world. His advice was always clear and straight from the heart, even when the truth was tough to hear. He didn’t sugarcoat life, he equipped us to deal with it.

Dad was the embodiment of resilience and tenacity. He worked tirelessly, juggling jobs, enduring long hours, all to ensure that our family never knew the hardships he did. But never once did he let the strains of life dull his humor or dampen his spirit. His laughter was our daily soundtrack, a reminder that joy could be found even amidst chaos.

Growing up, my father was my pillar of strength. He taught me that it’s okay to fall, but what matters is that we pick ourselves up and keep going. He showed this through his actions, living out his days with a determination that was nothing short of inspiring.

I remember one summer when he taught me to ride a bike. Every time I fell, scraped a knee, or felt like giving up, he would simply say, “Remember, son, strength isn’t about not falling; it’s about getting back up.” This life lesson has carried me through my darkest times, and every success I’ve had is a testament to his words.

He was a man of humble beginnings, but he took pride in the smallest achievements. He taught me that real success is not measured in wealth or accolades but in the love we give and receive and the lives we touch.

My father was not only a devoted dad but also a loving husband. The love he shared with my mom was the epitome of partnership and mutual respect. Theirs was a love story that endured the test of time, a love story that showed me the kind of love I aspire to have in my life.

As a grandfather, Dad was even more incredible. His eyes would light up every time he saw his grandchildren, and I could see the pride in his eyes as he watched them grow. They’ll remember him as the man who would tell the tallest tales and create the most fantastic worlds just to see them laugh.

The pain of losing him is profound, and the void his absence leaves feels impossible to fill. But in the silence, I hear his laughter, his words of encouragement, and I feel his love surrounding us.

Peter, my father, was truly a man of substance, and his legacy will live on through all of us. He lives in my heart as a beacon guiding me forward, his lessons my roadmap in life.

So today, we do not simply mourn the loss of a great man, we celebrate his life and cherish the time we had with him. Today, we honor my father by remembering him not with tears in our eyes, but love in our hearts and smiles on our faces. We remember his laughter, his wisdom, and most importantly, his unwavering love for us.

Dad, you have been my greatest inspiration. As I navigate life without you, I will hold onto the memories, the lessons, and most importantly, the love. You may not be here in person, but your spirit remains with us. Until we meet again. I love you, Dad.”

I. Personal Eulogy Example: Celebrating the Life of a Best Friend

In this heartfelt eulogy, a woman pays tribute to her best friend, sharing stories of their adventures together and the reason why their friendship was so special:

“Dear friends and family,

As I stand here today, my heart aches with a profound sadness, but it also swells with gratitude for the cherished memories and profound bond I shared with my best friend, Daniella. A friend like Daniella comes along once in a lifetime – if you’re lucky. Today, as we say our final goodbyes, I want to share the story of our friendship, the story of Daniella, the best friend a girl could ever have.

From the day Daniella and I met in the second grade, we were inseparable. It was as if we had known each other for years. We shared an unspoken bond, a bond that stood the test of time and distance. We shared secrets, dreams, heartbreaks, and milestones. Our friendship was not just a part of my life; it was a part of me.

Daniella was more than just a friend; she was an adventurer. She had this unparalleled zest for life that was infectious. I remember our summer road trips, the radio blasting our favorite songs, as we sang at the top of our lungs. Those were the moments when we felt invincible, when we believed that the world was ours to conquer. Daniella lived each moment as if it were her last, and she taught me to do the same.

She had this remarkable ability to turn ordinary days into extraordinary ones. Be it a picnic in the park or a movie night at home, with Daniella, there was never a dull moment. Her laughter was contagious, her spirit was magnetic, and her presence was comforting. She made life a little more vibrant, a little more colorful.

But what made Daniella exceptional was her heart – kind, generous, and unwaveringly loyal. She had a way of making you feel seen, heard, and valued. She stood by me during my darkest days, her strength becoming my lifeline. Her compassion knew no bounds; she loved fiercely and was unafraid to show it.

In Daniella, I found a confidante, a shoulder to lean on, a source of endless laughter, and a beacon of true friendship. I am who I am today because of her. Her love, her laughter, her resilience, her spirit have shaped me. Our friendship was a dance of joy, laughter, tears, disagreements, reconciliations, and endless memories – a dance that I will forever cherish.

Losing Daniella feels like losing a piece of my heart, a piece of my soul. But I take solace in knowing that she lives on in every life she touched, in every smile she elicited, in every heart she loved.

As we say goodbye to Daniella today, let us not dwell on the sadness of her loss, but instead, let us celebrate her life, her spirit, her friendship. Let’s remember the joy she brought into our lives, the strength she gave us, and the unconditional love she showed us.

Daniella, my dearest friend, you were the sister I found in this chaotic world. You were my laughter, my solace, my rock. You may be gone from our sight, but never from our hearts. Your spirit lives on in the love and friendship we shared. Until we meet again, my friend, I will cherish our memories and carry you in my heart. I love you, Daniella.”

J. Personal Eulogy Example: A True Friend Honored by a Close Friend

This moving eulogy for a true friend emphasizes the importance of spending time with loved ones and cherishing the happy memories that form the foundation of our lives:

“Ladies and Gentlemen,

As I stand before you today, my heart aches with a sense of loss that words fail to capture. Today, we say farewell to Maria, a true friend, an unforgettable soul, a beacon of light in every life she touched.

Maria was not just a friend to me; she was a part of my soul, a kindred spirit. She was the friend who you could call at any hour, knowing she’d pick up. The friend who knew what you were thinking with just a glance. The friend who always knew the right thing to say. In this world of fleeting connections, our friendship was a rock, a steady beacon in the storm.

Maria had an uncanny ability to see the silver lining in every situation. When life was tough, she taught me to dance in the rain instead of waiting for the storm to pass. And it was not just a metaphor to her, it was literally her way of life. I recall one day when we were caught in a sudden downpour. Instead of running for cover, Maria twirled in the rain, her laughter echoing through the street, her joy infectious. That’s who she was – a ray of sunshine, even on the rainiest days.

She believed in making the most of every moment. She once told me, “Time is the one thing we can’t get back, so we must spend it wisely.” And spend it wisely she did. Whether it was planning a spontaneous road trip, organizing a surprise birthday party, or simply spending the afternoon watching reruns of our favorite shows, Maria was always present, always engaged. She taught me that it’s not about how much time we have, but how we choose to spend it.

Maria had a heart as vast as the ocean. She loved deeply and unconditionally. It wasn’t just her words but her actions that made you feel loved and cherished. She made every person she met feel special, feel seen. And in return, she was loved by everyone who had the fortune of knowing her.

In Maria, I found an unwavering support system, a cheerleader, a confidante. She stood by me during the ups and downs, during victories and defeats. Her friendship was a gift, one that I will forever cherish.

The void left by Maria’s absence is immeasurable. But as I stand here today, I am comforted by the beautiful memories we created, memories that are now my cherished treasures. Her laughter still rings in my ears, her words of wisdom echo in my heart, and her love continues to envelop me.

As we bid goodbye to Maria today, let us celebrate her spirit, her life, and her legacy. Let’s honor her by living life just as she did – with joy, with love, and with a heart full of compassion.

Maria, my dear friend, you have left an indelible mark on my life. Your spirit will forever be a part of me. I will carry you in my heart until the day we meet again. I love you, Maria, and I am grateful for every moment we shared. Goodbye, my dear friend.”

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IV. Lessons from the Best Eulogies

A. emphasizing love and connection.

One of the most important lessons we can learn from the best eulogy examples is the emphasis on love and connection. Whether it’s a famous eulogy like Oprah Winfrey’s tribute to Rosa Parks or a heartfelt speech by a close friend, these unforgettable eulogies showcase the deep bonds between the deceased and their loved ones. By emphasizing the love and connection shared with the person who has passed away, a eulogy can provide comfort and solace during a time of grief.

B. Sharing personal stories and memories

Another key element in the best eulogies is the sharing of personal stories and fond memories. These anecdotes bring the deceased to life, allowing the audience to remember them for who they truly were. In Mona Simpson’s eulogy for her brother Steve Jobs, she beautifully captured his essence through the memories they shared together. By including personal stories in a eulogy, you create a lasting tribute that honors the person’s unique qualities and experiences.

C. Recognizing the impact of the deceased on others

Finally, an unforgettable eulogy should recognize the impact the deceased had on those around them. This can be seen in John Cleese’s eulogy for his close friend and creative partner, Graham Chapman, where he highlighted how Chapman’s humor and wit touched the lives of many. When writing a eulogy, it’s essential to find the perfect balance between celebrating the person’s life and mourning their death. By acknowledging the positive influence the deceased had on others, you not only pay tribute to their legacy but also provide hope and inspiration for those left behind.

V. Tips for Writing Your Own Unforgettable Eulogy

A. be genuine and heartfelt.

One of the most important tips for writing an unforgettable eulogy is to be genuine and heartfelt in your words. As seen in famous eulogies like Oprah Winfrey’s tribute to Rosa Parks and Mona Simpson’s eulogy for her brother Steve Jobs, sincerity and emotion create a lasting impact. Speak from the heart and let your love for the deceased guide you as you write a eulogy.

B. Focus on the positive aspects of the person’s life

When writing a eulogy, it’s crucial to focus on the positive aspects of the person’s life. Although grief and death are inevitable themes in eulogies, celebrating the deceased’s achievements, character, and the fond memories shared will provide comfort and hope to those mourning their loss. For example, in John Cleese’s eulogy for his close friend Graham Chapman, he highlighted the humor and wit that made Chapman so special.

C. Include anecdotes and memorable moments

To create a truly unforgettable eulogy, be sure to include anecdotes and memorable moments that capture the essence of the person. Personal stories, like those shared by Frank Oz in his eulogy for Jim Henson, help paint a vivid picture of the deceased and allow listeners to remember them for who they truly were. By incorporating these unique experiences and moments into your eulogy, you pay tribute to the person’s life and create a lasting impression on friends and family.

VI. Conclusion

Unforgettable eulogies, like the famous eulogies delivered by Oprah Winfrey and John Cleese, leave a lasting impact on those who hear them. They not only pay tribute to the person who has passed away but also provide comfort, hope, and inspiration to friends and family during a time of grief. By focusing on the positive aspects of the person’s life, sharing fond memories, and recognizing their impact on others, a well-crafted eulogy can create a lasting impression that honors the deceased’s legacy.

If you find yourself tasked with writing a eulogy for a loved one, remember that there are many eulogy examples available to guide and inspire you. From famous eulogies like Mona Simpson’s tribute to her brother Steve Jobs to heartfelt speeches from close friends and family members, these examples can help you find the right words to pay tribute to your loved one. Keep in mind the lessons learned from these unforgettable eulogies: be genuine and heartfelt, focus on the positive aspects of the person’s life, and include anecdotes and memorable moments. By following these guidelines, you can write a eulogy that will touch the hearts of those who hear it and create a lasting memory of the person you are honoring.

What is the most famous eulogy?

While it’s difficult to pinpoint the single most famous eulogy, one of the most well-known and widely praised eulogies is Earl Spencer’s tribute to his sister, Princess Diana. Delivered at her funeral in 1997, Earl Spencer’s eulogy captivated the world with its heartfelt emotion and sincerity in honoring Princess Diana’s life and legacy.

What is the best opening line for a eulogy?

The best opening line for a eulogy is one that sets the tone for the tribute while capturing the essence of the person being honored. A strong opening line can be a powerful quote, a personal memory, or an anecdote that encapsulates the person’s character. For example:

“Today, we gather not only to mourn the loss of [Name], but also to celebrate the extraordinary life and impact they had on all of us.”

What are the best closing lines for a eulogy?

The best closing lines for a eulogy provide comfort, hope, or inspiration to those grieving, while leaving a lasting impression of the deceased. Some examples of powerful closing lines include:

• “As we say our final goodbyes to [Name], let us remember the love, laughter, and light they brought into our lives, and carry their memory with us forever.”
• “In honor of [Name], may we continue to cherish the time we spent together, and let their spirit live on in our hearts and actions.”
• “Though we may grieve the loss of [Name], let us take solace in knowing that their love, wisdom, and legacy will continue to guide us throughout our lives.”

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How to give a eulogy that truly celebrates the person you’re honoring

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Death is a part of life, and so are the funerals and memorial services held to mark an individual’s passing. But when we’re called upon to speak at these occasions, many of us are at a loss for words. Here are some basic guidelines for writing a eulogy, from palliative specialist BJ Miller and writer Shoshana Berger.

When you leave a memorial or funeral having imagined the fullness of the person being memorialized, you know the speakers got it right. The first rule for eulogists is that this is not about them. It is about paying close attention to the way a person lived and drawing out the most meaningful, memorable bits.

Summing up a life in writing isn’t easy, but it’s an important exercise that serves a dual purpose. It obliges the writer to call up memories — which is a way to honor the person and process one’s loss — and it creates an atmosphere of deep community with other grievers. Do your best to be honest in your eulogy, instead of presenting some idealized portrait that others won’t recognize. Steve Schafer, a pastor who helps people write eulogies, offers the following guidelines.

• Aim for 1,000 words, or about six to seven minutes’ speaking time.

• Always write down what you’re going to say, even if you plan to abandon your notes. It’s a good way to gather your thoughts and make sure you’re not missing any important details.

• Be personal and conversational. This isn’t a formal speech; it’s an appreciation.

• If you aren’t introduced by the emcee or by another speaker, do so yourself and say what your relationship to the person was.

• Start with a story about the person. People come alive through specific anecdotes.

• Be humorous. The best eulogies are respectful and solemn, but they also give mourners some comic relief. A bit of roasting is fine if it suits who the person was and the family has a sense of humor.

• Close your eulogy by directly addressing the person who died, something like “Joe, thank you for teaching me how to be a good father.”

Here’s an example of a great eulogy, written by a woman for her grandmother. Before each section, we’ve explained what she’s done.

[Start with an introduction that paints a portrait of the person’s character. Beginning with your memories of the person is a great way to go. Try for descriptive details — the Almond Joy moment below — rather than broad, abstract statements such as “She was kind” or “She was a loving caretaker.”]

From my earliest memories, she is right by my side, taking me on walks through the miniature golf course near our house, dutifully preparing my odd lunch requests for cheddar and mayo sandwiches and sneaking me Almond Joy candy bars away from the gaze of my mom.

[Draw out important moments that signify lifelong connection.]

I was so close to my grandma that around the age of 23 I grew increasingly anxious that she might not live to attend my wedding unless I hurried up. Well … she did live to attend that wedding, and also to witness my first divorce, my second marriage, and to know and love my two children. She liked Jeff from the beginning and one day before we were engaged, she boldly told him, “Well, you better put a ring on it!” quoting Beyoncé without knowing the reference.

[Talk about advice passed down — values, sayings and anecdotes that capture the person.]

The most remarkable qualities about my grandma as she aged were her gratitude and her humility. She often told me to live for myself and not worry about her — to work, focus on my family, and come visit when I had time. She loved every minute of our visits but never pushed for more.

I once asked her if I should have a third child and she replied, “Why, honey? You already have the perfect family.” The most important things to my grandma were family and faith; she didn’t care for material possessions. In fact, she was known for giving items away because “there was someone who was more in need.” This selflessness and service for others leave a legacy that I will try to model for my children. Time with her family was the greatest gift and even with that, she was not greedy.

[Thank-yous to other family members who helped with caretaking.]

I am deeply thankful to our family who cared for, loved her, and relished spending time with my grammie as she aged. Knowing she had Adie to take her to church and lunch every Sunday punctuated her week with a joyful event she truly looked forward to. Dave and Aileen always arrived with a box of her favorites See’s Candies, essentially confirming the Pavlovian model as she began to drool as soon as they walked in the door. And to my mom, who cared for my grandma for the last 10 years of her life with compassion and unrivaled duty. I thank her not only for giving back to her mom, but for modeling care and respect for our elders.

[The eulogy goes on a bit longer and then ends with a closing quote, poem, reading, or other good-bye.]

“When my friends began to have babies and I came to comprehend the heroic labor it takes to keep one alive, the constant exhausting tending of a being who can do nothing and demands everything, I realized that my mother had done all of these things for me before I remembered. I was fed; I was washed; I was clothed; I was taught to speak and given a thousand other things, over and over again, hourly, daily, for years. She gave me everything before she gave me nothing.”

— Rebecca Solnit, from her book The Faraway Nearby

Excerpted from the new book A Beginner’s Guide to the End: Practical Advice for Living Life and Facing Death by BJ Miller and Shoshana Berger. Copyright © 2019 by BJ Miller and Shoshana Berger. Reprinted by permission of Simon & Schuster, Inc, NY.

Watch his TED Talk now:

About the authors

BJ Miller, MD , practices and teaches palliative medicine in San Francisco. He has been profiled in The New York Times Magazine, interviewed on Super Soul Sunday, and speaks around the world.

Shoshana Berger is the editorial director of the global design firm IDEO. She was a senior editor at Wired magazine and the cofounder of ReadyMade magazine.

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Famous Eulogies

Studying famous eulogies can teach us a great deal about what goes into telling the story of someone’s life. They also illustrate that grief does not spare anyone. Regardless of whether you are a world leader, a sports legend, or an everyday hero, we all leave behind loved ones who grieve for us when we are gone. It is up to our loved ones to tell our story. Reading what others have said about luminaries can inspire us in how we think about the process of writing a eulogy and what type of information to share about the deceased.

From the touching words of an ex-spouse, such those Cher shared about Sonny Bono, to the wry humor famously used by John Cleese about his former comedy partner Graham Chapman, famous eulogies give us a window into the world of the deceased and the heartbreak of their loved ones.

While we may never hope to craft words as elegantly as Maya Angelou or as colorful as Craig Ferguson, we can write a eulogy that honors the deceased and expresses your heartfelt emotions. You need not worry that the person you are eulogizing did not change the world as someone such as Rosa Parks did. Your loved one was important to those in his or her world and that is all that is important. We all make an impact on those around us and every life is worth remembering.

Famous Eulogies: U.S. Leaders

President John F. Kennedy’s Funeral Eulogy by Senator Jacob Javits at a Senate Memorial Service President Ronald Reagan’s Eulogy presented by President Bush President Ronald Reagan’s Eulogy presented by Margaret Thatcher President Gerald R. Ford’s Eulogy presented by Tom Brokaw Edward (Ted) Kennedy’s Eulogy presented by President Obama Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s Funeral Eulogy by Robert F. Kennedy Rosa Parks’ Eulogy presented by Oprah Winfrey Memorial Speech for the Columbia Astronauts by President George W. Bush Coretta Scott King’s Eulogy presented by Maya Angelou President Richard Nixon’s Eulogy presented by President Bill Clinton Robert F. Kennedy’s Eulogy presented by Sen Edward M. Kennedy John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette’s Eulogy presented by Sen Edward Kennedy Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’s Eulogy presented by Ted Kennedy

Famous Eulogies: Journalists

Tim Russert Eulogy presented by his son, Luke Russert

Famous Eulogies: Religious Leaders

Father Mychal Judge’s Eulogy presented by Father Micahel Duffy

Famous Eulogies: Business Leaders

Steve Jobs, Apple Computer Eulogy presented by his sister, Mona Simpson

Famous Eulogies: World Leaders

Mahatma Mohandas Gandhi’s Funeral Eulogy by Jawaharlal Nehru Diana Spencer, Princess of Wales’ Eulogy presented by her brother Charles Spencer, 9th Earl Spencer Sir Edmund Hillary’s Eulogy presented by Helen Clark, New Zealand Prime Minister Queen Elizabeth’s Eulogy by The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. George Carey

Famous Eulogies: Entertainment and Sports Leaders

Sonny Bono’s Eulogy presented by Cher Graham Chapman’s Eulogy presented by John Cleese Jim Henson’s Eulogy presented by Frank Oz Robert Ferguson’s Eulogy presented by Craig Ferguson George Harrison’s Eulogy presented by Eric Idle Steve Irwin’s Eulogy presented by Russell Crowe Steve Irwin’s Eulogy presented by his daughter, Bindi Irwin Stanley Kubrick’s Funeral Eulogy by Edward Champion Mickey Mantle’s Eulogy presented by Bob Costas Marilyn Monroe’s Eulogy presented by Lee Strasberg Mattie Stepanek’s Eulogy presented by President Jimmy Carter

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Find Inspiration for Your Eulogy Speech with These Examples

By Farewelling Editors

Writing a eulogy speech can be a daunting task, especially during such a difficult time. But with the right inspiration and guidance, you can create a heartfelt and memorable tribute to honor your loved one. In this article, we will explore various aspects of writing a eulogy speech and provide you with examples to help you find inspiration. Whether you are a family member or a close friend, these examples and tips will guide you in crafting a eulogy that truly reflects the life and legacy of the person you are honoring.

First of, learn how to write your eulogy here. 

Understanding the Purpose of a Eulogy

Before we explore the different components of a eulogy speech, it is important to understand its purpose. A eulogy serves as a tribute to the deceased, celebrating their life, accomplishments, and impact on others. It provides an opportunity for family and friends to come together to remember and honor their loved one. A well-written eulogy can help bring comfort, healing, and closure to those who are grieving.

The Role of a Eulogy in the Grieving Process

One of the primary roles of a eulogy is to support the grieving process. It allows family and friends to share their memories and emotions openly, creating a sense of catharsis and connection. By reflecting on the life of the deceased, a eulogy can help mourners find comfort and solace during a time of loss.

When delivering a eulogy, it is important to consider the impact it can have on the grieving process. The words spoken during this tribute can help individuals navigate through the stages of grief, providing them with a sense of understanding and acceptance. By sharing stories and memories, the eulogy can help mourners find solace in the fact that their loved one's life was meaningful and impactful.

Furthermore, a eulogy can serve as a reminder of the deceased's legacy. It can highlight their achievements, passions, and contributions to society. By acknowledging and celebrating their accomplishments, the eulogy can inspire others to carry on their memory and continue their work.

The Importance of Personal Touch in a Eulogy

A eulogy is a deeply personal and intimate tribute. It is an opportunity to showcase the unique qualities and experiences of the person who has passed away. By incorporating personal stories, anecdotes, and memories, you can create a eulogy that is not only authentic but also deeply meaningful to those attending the service.

When crafting a eulogy, it is important to consider the impact of personal touch. Sharing specific memories and experiences can help paint a vivid picture of the deceased's life, allowing mourners to connect with their essence. By including personal anecdotes, you can bring a sense of warmth and familiarity to the eulogy, making it a heartfelt tribute that resonates with everyone present.

Moreover, incorporating personal touch in a eulogy can help celebrate the individuality of the deceased. It can highlight their unique qualities, passions, and accomplishments, allowing others to appreciate the depth and richness of their life. By sharing personal stories, you can showcase the impact the deceased had on the lives of those around them, creating a lasting memory that honors their legacy.

Components of a Memorable Eulogy

Now that we have discussed the purpose of a eulogy, let's delve into the different components that make up a memorable speech.

A eulogy is not just a speech; it is a heartfelt tribute to a person who has left an indelible mark on our lives. It is an opportunity to honor their memory, celebrate their life, and provide comfort to those who are grieving. A well-crafted eulogy can create a lasting impact and leave a lasting impression on the hearts of those in attendance.

Balancing Emotion and Humour

A eulogy is an emotional experience for both the speaker and the audience. While it is natural to express sadness and grief, it is also important to balance these emotions with moments of humor and lightness. Sharing light-hearted anecdotes or funny stories about your loved one can provide moments of levity amidst the sorrow.

Humor can be a powerful tool in a eulogy, as it allows us to remember the joy and laughter that the deceased brought into our lives. It can help ease the pain and create a more uplifting atmosphere. However, it is crucial to strike the right balance and ensure that the humor is respectful and appropriate for the occasion.

Incorporating Personal Stories and Memories

One of the most powerful ways to connect with the audience is by sharing personal stories and memories about the deceased. These stories bring the person to life in the minds of those listening and allow them to feel a deeper connection with the individual being honored. Consider anecdotes that highlight their character, values, or memorable moments shared together.

Personal stories have the ability to evoke emotions and create a sense of intimacy in the room. They can paint a vivid picture of the person's life, their passions, and their impact on others. Whether it's recounting a funny incident, a touching moment, or a life lesson learned from the deceased, these personal stories add depth and authenticity to the eulogy.

When incorporating personal stories, it is important to choose ones that resonate with the audience and capture the essence of the person being remembered. These stories should be shared with sincerity and genuine emotion, allowing the listeners to feel the love and admiration you have for the departed.

Structuring Your Eulogy Speech

Structure is important when delivering a eulogy speech. Let's explore the key elements of structuring your speech.

When it comes to delivering a eulogy, structure plays a crucial role in ensuring that your speech is impactful and memorable. By organizing your thoughts and ideas in a coherent manner, you can effectively convey the essence of the person's life and leave a lasting impression on the audience.

Beginning with a Strong Introduction

Start your eulogy with a strong and engaging introduction that captures the attention of the audience. This can be a memorable quote, a personal reflection, or a brief anecdote that sets the tone for the rest of your speech. By starting on a powerful note, you will draw the listeners in and establish a connection with them.

Imagine standing in front of a room filled with people who have gathered to pay their respects and honor the life of a loved one. The weight of the moment hangs in the air, and all eyes are on you. It is at this pivotal moment that your introduction becomes the gateway to the heartfelt stories and cherished memories that will follow.

Consider sharing a quote that resonates with the person's character or a personal reflection that highlights a special bond you shared. This will not only grab the attention of the audience but also set the emotional tone for the rest of your eulogy.

Crafting the Body of Your Speech

The body of your eulogy is where you will share the important stories, memories, and lessons learned from the life of the deceased. Organize your speech in a way that flows naturally, moving from one theme or topic to another. Consider using chronological order, themes, or specific qualities to structure your speech and create a seamless narrative.

As you delve into the body of your eulogy, take the audience on a journey through the person's life. Share anecdotes that highlight their accomplishments, moments of joy, and the impact they had on others. Paint a vivid picture of their personality, passions, and the values they held dear.

Consider organizing your speech around themes that were important to the person, such as their love for family, their dedication to their career, or their passion for helping others. By structuring your eulogy in this way, you can create a cohesive narrative that celebrates the different facets of their life.

Concluding Your Eulogy on a Positive Note

As you come to the end of your eulogy, it is important to summarize the key points and leave the audience with a positive and uplifting message. Reflect on the impact the person had on your life and the lives of others, and offer words of encouragement and hope for those who are grieving.

Concluding your eulogy is an opportunity to honor the person's legacy and provide comfort to those who are mourning. Take a moment to reflect on the profound impact they had on your life and the lives of others. Share how their kindness, wisdom, or zest for life continues to inspire and guide you.

Offer words of encouragement and hope to those who are grieving, reminding them that although the person may no longer be physically present, their spirit lives on in the memories and lessons they left behind. By ending your eulogy on a positive note, you can leave the audience with a sense of comfort and reassurance as they navigate their grief.

Tips for Delivering a Eulogy

Delivering a eulogy can be emotionally challenging, but with preparation and practice, you can deliver a heartfelt speech that honors the memory of your loved one.

When it comes to delivering a eulogy, it's important to remember that you are not alone in your grief. Surround yourself with loved ones who can provide support and understanding during this difficult time. Sharing your thoughts and memories with others can help alleviate some of the emotional burden.

Practicing Your Speech

Practice your eulogy multiple times before the actual delivery. This will help you become familiar with the content, improve your delivery, and manage your emotions. Rehearsing in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend or family member can also provide valuable feedback and support.

As you practice, take note of any areas where you stumble or become overwhelmed with emotion. These moments can be particularly challenging during the actual delivery, so it's important to address them during your practice sessions. Consider revising those sections or finding ways to cope with the emotions they evoke.

Managing Emotions While Speaking

It is natural to experience a range of emotions while delivering a eulogy. Take a moment to compose yourself before starting and remember to breathe deeply and speak slowly. If you find yourself becoming overwhelmed with emotion, pause, take a deep breath, and continue when you are ready.

One technique that can help you manage your emotions is to focus on the positive memories and moments you shared with your loved one. By highlighting their accomplishments, quirks, and the impact they had on others, you can celebrate their life and find strength in their memory.

Additionally, consider incorporating moments of silence into your speech. These pauses can allow you and the audience to reflect on the words spoken and the life being honored. It can also provide you with a moment to collect yourself and regain composure if needed.

Remember, delivering a eulogy is not about perfection. It's about sharing your love, grief, and memories with others. Allow yourself to be vulnerable and authentic, as this will resonate with those in attendance.

Lastly, don't hesitate to seek professional help if you are struggling with the emotional toll of delivering a eulogy. Grief counseling or therapy can provide you with the support and guidance needed to navigate this challenging process.

Overcoming Common Challenges in Writing a Eulogy

Writing a eulogy may present various challenges along the way. Let's explore some common challenges and how to overcome them.

Dealing with Writer's Block

Writer's block is common when it comes to writing a eulogy. If you find yourself struggling to put your thoughts into words, take a break and engage in activities that inspire you. Reflect on shared memories, look at old photographs, or seek inspiration from other eulogy speeches. Remember, there is no right or wrong way to write a eulogy, as long as it comes from the heart.

When faced with writer's block, it can be helpful to create a quiet and peaceful environment. Find a comfortable space where you can reflect and gather your thoughts. Take deep breaths and allow yourself to feel the emotions that arise. Sometimes, a change of scenery can also provide a fresh perspective. Consider taking a walk in nature or visiting a place that holds special meaning to the person you are eulogizing.

Another strategy to overcome writer's block is to brainstorm and jot down key points or memories that come to mind. Don't worry about organizing them at this stage; just let your thoughts flow freely. Once you have a collection of ideas, you can start arranging them into a cohesive narrative.

Addressing Difficult or Complex Relationships in a Eulogy

When writing a eulogy, you may encounter complex relationships or challenging situations. It is important to approach these situations with sensitivity and empathy. Focus on the positive aspects and highlight the impact the person had on others' lives. Acknowledge the complexities, but also offer words of forgiveness, understanding, and love.

When addressing difficult or complex relationships in a eulogy, it can be helpful to seek guidance from others who knew the person well. Reach out to family members, close friends, or mentors who can provide insights and share their own experiences. By gathering different perspectives, you can gain a deeper understanding of the person's impact and navigate the complexities with grace.

Remember that a eulogy is an opportunity to celebrate the life of the person who has passed away. While it is important to acknowledge any challenges or difficulties in their relationships, focus on the lessons learned and the growth that occurred. Share stories that highlight their resilience, compassion, and ability to overcome obstacles. By doing so, you can honor their memory and inspire others to find strength in the face of adversity.

Final Thoughts on Eulogy Speech Writing

As you embark on the journey of writing a eulogy, remember the value of authenticity. Your eulogy should be a genuine reflection of your relationship with the person you are honoring. While finding inspiration from examples can be helpful, make sure to infuse your own unique voice and experiences into your speech. Remember the purpose of your speech: to celebrate the life and legacy of your loved one and provide healing and comfort to those who are grieving.

When writing a eulogy, it is important to take the time to reflect on the memories and experiences you shared with the person who has passed away. Think about the impact they had on your life and the lives of others. Consider the qualities that made them special and the lessons they taught you. By incorporating these personal details into your speech, you can create a heartfelt tribute that truly captures the essence of the person you are honoring.

As you write your eulogy, remember that it is not just a speech, but a gift to those who are mourning. Your words have the power to provide solace and comfort to those who are grieving, and to help them remember and celebrate the life of their loved one. Consider sharing anecdotes and stories that highlight the person's character, achievements, and the impact they had on others. These personal touches can help create a meaningful and memorable eulogy.

Remembering the Purpose of Your Speech

Lastly, always keep in mind the purpose of your eulogy—the opportunity to honor and pay tribute to a cherished individual. Let the love and memories you carry for them guide you as you craft and deliver a eulogy that celebrates their life and brings comfort to all who are present.

When delivering your eulogy, it is important to speak from the heart. Allow yourself to be vulnerable and express your emotions. Share your personal experiences and memories, and let the audience feel the love and admiration you have for the person you are honoring. Remember, a eulogy is not just a speech, but a way to connect with others and create a sense of unity in the midst of grief.

In addition to honoring the person who has passed away, a eulogy can also serve as a source of inspiration and comfort for those in attendance. By sharing stories of resilience, love, and strength, you can provide hope and encouragement to those who are grieving. Use your words to remind everyone of the impact that one life can have, and to encourage them to carry on the legacy of the person they have lost.

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Best Eulogy Speeches

A eulogy speech should combine pertinent personal information and life history of the deceased with stories, memories, and examples . While you can be as creative as you’d like, most eulogies are built around the basics of the person’s life as uniquely framed by the eulogist. The best eulogy speeches captivate the audience while capturing the essence of the loved one.

Table of Contents

What Should You Include In A Eulogy Speech?

Most eulogies contain many of the following components:

Personal Information:

• Full name and any other names or nicknames
• Birth and death date
• Hometown and anywhere of note they lived
• Parents and siblings
• Spouse and children

Milestones & Accomplishments:

• Wedding and anniversaries
• Volunteer and community work
• Military service
• Clubs and society memberships

Memories & Stories

• Your relationship with the deceased
• Your favorite memory or activity when you spent time with them
• What they were known for
• Endearing quirks or habits 
• Favorite pastimes or hobbies
• Early life and childhood 
• How they met their spouse
• Funny stories (as appropriate, if the deceased had a sense of humor)

Funeral Poems/Songs/Verses:

• The deceased’s favorite song, poem, or Bible verse
• A song, poem, or verse you feel represents their life
• A song, poem, or verse to bring comfort to attendees

The key is to know who you’re talking to. If the deceased person was a deeply religious and somber man, skip the funny stories. If he was well-known as the ultimate prankster and kid-at-heart, attendees will expect to chuckle and hear lighthearted stories that reflect his personality. 

How Do You Start A Eulogy Speech?

Start your funeral speech by welcoming attendees, thanking them for being there, and introducing yourself and your relationship to the deceased. If you are not a family member, you can extend your condolences to the family. If appropriate, you can express that you were honored to be asked to speak at the memorial service. 

Alternatively, some people choose to start a memorable eulogy with an attention-grabbing story or quote and weave in the personal information organically throughout the speech.

What Is The Most Important Message Of A Eulogy?

A good funeral eulogy pays tribute to a deceased loved one . The most important thing about a eulogy is that it is delivered from the heart. When it goes beyond a chronological list of milestones and is injected with personal stories, memories, emotions, and maybe some light humor, it becomes a beautiful eulogy and celebration of life that can help loved ones find closure, say goodbye, and remember the deceased fondly. 

What Is The Best Way To End A Eulogy Speech?

Many people like to end a eulogy by sharing how they wish for the deceased to be remembered. You can also close with a poem, quote, song, or Bible verse. If the deceased had a favorite saying, you could close with that. It’s also common at the end of a eulogy to say your last words directly to the deceased, as in “Rest in peace, my friend,” “You made me proud your entire life,” or “You will live on in our hearts forever.”

For a religious funeral, you may also choose to say a prayer that the deceased’s soul finds peace and that mourners find comfort in God.

What Makes A Eulogy Powerful

The power of a eulogy really comes down to the personality of the deceased and what they were known for. What makes one eulogy powerful would fall flat when delivered elsewhere. Aside from the emotion involved, one of the hardest things about eulogy writing is understanding who you’re talking to, what their opinion was of the person, and ultimately how you think the deceased would like to be remembered.

While writing a memorable eulogy, one great tip is to pretend the deceased is sitting in the audience. Would they like what they heard? Would it be an accurate and fitting remembrance of how they lived their life? Or would they cringe and be disappointed? 

What Are Some Of The Best Eulogy Speeches?

There are several famous eulogy speech examples that are often used as inspiration for how to write a eulogy and cited. Each is powerful in its own way, not because of the equally famous people that delivered the speeches, but because they succeeded in capturing the true spirit of the deceased person’s life. 

For example, when famous civil rights activist Rosa Parks died in 2005, Oprah Winfrey delivered her eulogy. Winfrey managed to capture Parks’ kind spirit and gentle heart while remembering her key role in the civil rights movement. Several times throughout the speech, Winfrey came back to the powerful phrase, “We shall not be moved,” which represented Parks’ refusal to move on the bus and became the anthem of the movement. 

When The Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin , died in 2006, his then 8-year-old daughter Bindi delivered a short but touching eulogy that she wrote on her own. While she had joined her dad on television over the years, one could hardly call the 8-year-old an expert at public speaking. But she opened her speech with a simple and poignant line that captured the essence of the man and father that Irwin was to her. She said, “My daddy was my hero.” 

Another famous eulogy was the one John Cleese delivered for his friend and colleague, Graham Chapman . Close friends, writers, and actors in the hilarious Monty Python troupe, Chapman delighted in offending people through his comedy. At the memorial service, Cleese paid tribute to Chapman by delivering a shocking and hilariously offensive eulogy that would have made the late actor proud. 

The funny eulogy was so good that we couldn’t pick just one section to showcase. You can watch Cleese’s eulogy here and read a transcript of the speech below.

John Cleese’s Eulogy for Graham Chapman

Graham Chapman, co-author of the ‘Parrot Sketch,’ is no more.

He has ceased to be, bereft of life, he rests in peace, he has kicked the bucket, hopped the twig, bit the dust, snuffed it, breathed his last, and gone to meet the Great Head of Light Entertainment in the sky, and I guess that we’re all thinking how sad it is that a man of such talent, such capability and kindness, of such intelligence should now be so suddenly spirited away at the age of only forty-eight, before he’d achieved many of the things of which he was capable, and before he’d had enough fun.

Well, I feel that I should say, “Nonsense. Good riddance to him, the freeloading bastard! I hope he fries.”

And the reason I think I should say this is, he would never forgive me if I didn’t, if I threw away this opportunity to shock you all on his behalf. Anything for him but mindless good taste. I could hear him whispering in my ear last night as I was writing this:

“Alright, Cleese, you’re very proud of being the first person to ever say ‘sh**’ on television. If this service is really for me, just for starters, I want you to be the first person ever at a British memorial service to say ‘f***’!”

You see, the trouble is, I can’t. If he were here with me now I would probably have the courage, because he always emboldened me. But the truth is, I lack his balls, his splendid defiance. And so I’ll have to content myself instead with saying ‘Betty Mardsen…’

But bolder and less inhibited spirits than me follow today. Jones and Idle, Gilliam and Palin. Heaven knows what the next hour will bring in Graham’s name. Trousers dropping, blasphemers on pogo sticks, spectacular displays of high-speed farting, synchronized incest. One of the four is planning to stuff a dead ocelot and a 1922 Remington typewriter up his own arse to the sound of the second movement of Elgar’s cello concerto. And that’s in the first half.

Because you see, Gray would have wanted it this way. Really. Anything for him but mindless good taste. And that’s what I’ll always remember about him—apart, of course, from his Olympian extravagance. He was the prince of bad taste. He loved to shock. In fact, Gray, more than anyone I knew, embodied and symbolized all that was most offensive and juvenile in Monty Python. And his delight in shocking people led him on to greater and greater feats. I like to think of him as the pioneering beacon that beat the path along which fainter spirits could follow.

Some memories. I remember writing the undertaker speech with him, and him suggesting the punch line, ‘All right, we’ll eat her, but if you feel bad about it afterwards, we’ll dig a grave and you can throw up into it.’ I remember discovering in 1969, when we wrote every day at the flat where Connie Booth and I lived, that he’d recently discovered the game of printing four-letter words on neat little squares of paper, and then quietly placing them at strategic points around our flat, forcing Connie and me into frantic last minute paper chases whenever we were expecting important guests.

I remember him at BBC parties crawling around on all fours, rubbing himself affectionately against the legs of gray-suited executives, and delicately nibbling the more appetizing female calves. Mrs. Eric Morecambe remembers that too.

I remember his being invited to speak at the Oxford union, and entering the chamber dressed as a carrot—a full-length orange tapering costume with a large, bright green sprig as a hat—-and then, when his turn came to speak, refusing to do so. He just stood there, literally speechless, for twenty minutes, smiling beatifically. The only time in world history that a totally silent man has succeeded in inciting a riot.

I remember Graham receiving a Sun newspaper TV award from Reggie Maudling. Who else! And taking the trophy falling to the ground and crawling all the way back to his table, screaming loudly, as loudly as he could. And if you remember Gray, that was very loud indeed.

It is magnificent, isn’t it? You see, the thing about shock… is not that it upsets some people, I think; I think that it gives others a momentary joy of liberation, as we realized in that instant that the social rules that constrict our lives so terribly are not actually very important.

Well, Gray can’t do that for us anymore. He’s gone. He is an ex-Chapman. All we have of him now is our memories. But it will be some time before they fade.

What Are Some Good Eulogies?

You don’t have to be famous to write a meaningful eulogy. Remember that the b est eulogy comes from the heart. If you think the deceased would be honored by the things you plan to say at their funeral service, then you’re on the right track. Also, keep in mind that sometimes less is more. Not every eulogy has to be 10 minutes long; a short eulogy can be just as memorable and impactful when you include the right information and move people with your delivery. At the end of the day, a good eulogy is sincere, heartfelt, and captures the spirit of the deceased. 

Here are a couple examples of experts from good eulogies for more inspiration.

“It’s hard to believe I’m standing here delivering a eulogy for my mother-in-law. Growing up without my own mother, I never understood how gapping the hole in my heart truly was until I met my husband and his mom accepted me as her own. She loved her family fiercely and unconditionally, and she inspired me to become the best mother I could be to my own children. She will be missed everyday, but I hope she knew the profound impact she had on my life and that her spirit will live on through her grandchildren and our wonderful memories of her.  “

“ My grandfather had an undeniable impact on the community despite not liking to be the center of attention. His wish would not be for us to spend this time grieving and sharing sorrow. Rather than focus on the past, he would rather remember the wonderful memories and joyful times we shared together.

“ Whenever he met anyone, Grandpa left a lasting impression. The warmth in his eyes and the depth of his laugh brought life to the most mundane activities. It made Grandpa feel young at heart to spend time with his grandchildren. It was a pleasure to learn from him and he was a reliable friend. Through the joys and challenges that life has to offer, I will continue to follow his advice and guidance. “

Carol Farrish is a lifelong writer on diverse topics. Not quite ready to be a customer of the funeral industry for herself yet, she comes from a large family with over two dozen aunts and uncles who survived well into their 80s and 90s. She is a keen observer of the industry after having attended and participated in many funeral and memorial services for family, church friends, and business associates. Not a traditional person herself, she understands the importance of ritual, especially when death strikes a loved one.

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Eulogy examples to help you write a eulogy for a memorial service

Funeral speech examples from around the world.

By:  Susan Dugdale  

How do you begin to write a meaningful eulogy?

And how is it possible to say everything you want to about a person's entire life story in a few, very brief, minutes?

Both those questions are natural responses to having a eulogy to write for a funeral service.

Grief, together with the desire to honor your loved-one the best way you can, and the pressure of a tight timeframe, can make it feel like an almost insurmountable challenge. 

That's why reading what others have written in similar circumstances helps a great deal.

What's on this page:

Access to 70+ eulogy examples, the whys and wherefores of the collection: its background, a submission form to use if you want to contribute a eulogy and links to other useful pages on my site.

Quick links

• I want to browse and read the example eulogies in the order they have been received . (The most recent is at the top of the list.)
• I want to submit a eulogy I have written .
• I want to read specific types of eulogies : eulogies for mothers, fathers, an older brother, a dear friend...
• I want help with the eulogy writing process.

About these eulogy examples

I am fortunate to be able to make available to you a large, and growing, collection of funeral speech examples. 

They've been written by people from all over the world, who are just like you and me. They too have family and friends whom they care for deeply.

Look and you'll find examples of eulogies for mothers, fathers, grandparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins, mentors, colleagues, a close friend..., in short: loved ones.

The people who've written them have shared them to help people like yourself. Because they've been where you are now with a funeral speech to prepare, they know how it feels to be searching for inspiration, trying to find a starting point.

Some of the speeches are short. Some of them are funny. All of them are heartfelt, and they appear in the order I received them.

To see them, jump to  eulogy samples .  

Return to Top

 Help to find specific eulogy examples easily

If you're looking for an example of a eulogy for a particular kind of person, and don't want to browse your way through the chronologically ordered list below, use these links to go straight to a collection of:

• eulogies for mothers
• eulogies for  fathers
• eulogies for  sisters
• eulogies for  sons
• eulogies for  grandmothers
• eulogies for  grandfathers
• eulogies for  friends
• eulogies for  colleagues

I've grouped all the speeches I've received through this page according to their type on a new page here: sample eulogies . Whenever a eulogy is submitted, I add its link to the category it belongs to.

The story behind this collection of eulogies

It began with two funeral speeches  I had written. 

Almost as soon as I put them online, they attracted an enormous number of visitors.

It was then I realized the need for more.  

I also knew my examples would not answer everybody's needs.

The one for my sister was different in approach.

The one for my friend and next-door neighbor was not what a grieving person with a eulogy speech to write for a close family member really wanted to see. 

My two were definitely not enough! 

Offering a wider variety of funeral speeches 

To be really useful there needed to be a wider variety of funeral speeches. We needed eulogies for mothers, fathers, sons, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, colleagues, friends, people who died unexpectedly and suddenly...

And we needed them to reflect the diverse countries and faiths of the people visiting the site.

I decided to ask for more. Lo and behold, they began to arrive through my   eulogy submission form below.

Help to make writing a eulogy easier.

After you've read a few eulogy examples, and you want help to prepare your own speech you'll find it here:  how to write a good eulogy .

The article has step-by-step instructions, examples, a very useful free 15-page printable eulogy planning template to download , as well as comprehensive answers for 13 FAQs about eulogies :

• how do you start a eulogy ?
• how do you end a eulogy ?
• do you read a eulogy or memorize it?
• how do you stop from crying when you give a eulogy ?

Why do people share a deeply personal speech?

The people sending their eulogies to me to publish fully appreciate that writing a funeral speech under pressure can be a difficult, sad and lonely task - sometimes one of the hardest things they've ever done.

They know from experience having examples to read can lessen that burden. It's a good way of starting to find the right words to tell their own personal stories and share their favorite memories about a person they have loved.

Theirs is a kind and generous act, one that's been repeated over 70 times already. 

Wonderfully, some of the people who've come searching for help to write their own eulogy, have returned to share what they've written.

(Read Craig's comment below his eulogy for his Grandmother, Bertha  or Byrona's below her  eulogy for her Dad  for verification.

Both were helped by funeral speeches they found here and wanted what they had written to assist others in the same way.)

So, if you've written a eulogy...

Would you consider sharing it.

It would help others enormously.

Every day people look for tips on how to a write eulogy or to find  eulogy examples  to read. I know because I see it reflected in my website visitor statistics.

I also know because of the comments people leave under speeches.  They are so very grateful to have found a eulogy expressing how they feel.

For instance, see the comments on Eulogy for my Son , on Eulogy for my Grandmother - Bertha , or Sharon Catley's poem for her Mother,  Journey's End .   

You know how it generally is with a speech of this sort. Typically, there is not much time to prepare, and you want to get it right.

Reading what others have done helps in the best possible way.

These eulogies inspire and give people the courage to do what they need to do.

Despite our differences what we all have in common is the desire to speak about our loved ones the very best way we can. 

The more examples we have, the more likely a person is going to find a speech that resonates and meets their needs.

You too could help by submitting the eulogy you've written. It's very simple to do.

When you're ready ...

PS. If you would like to share your eulogy but have privacy concerns around using your loved one's name you could either use a fictional one or write XXXX in its place. Be assured too, that although there is the possibility that people reading your speech might wish to respond, no comment goes live without my permission.

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Click the headline links below to read the eulogies or funeral speeches shared by visitors to this page...

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6 inspiring eulogy examples to draw from 2.

Writing a eulogy is widely (and perhaps rightly) thought of as one of the most difficult tasks out there. Not only does it involve public speaking, but it asks you to communicate how you feel about a loved one at a time when your emotions can be overwhelming. If you’ve been asked to deliver a eulogy, you might be feeling understandably nervous about the whole thing.

Don’t worry. We’ve put together some eulogy examples to show that you don’t have to be Shakespeare to put together a powerful, moving speech.

6 of the best eulogy examples to watch for inspiration

Remember, eulogies don’t have to be that long to be great, and you certainly don’t have to stop yourself from crying. If you’re struggling for words or you’re not sure where to start, here are some long, short, and even funny eulogy examples to get you started.

“He got me ready to be a strong, upstanding man.”

No two people get on one hundred percent of the time. If you’re looking for eulogy examples for a father, this speech about a man who spent some years “butting heads” with his son is a heart warming place to start. By acknowledging that history of conflict in this short, witty eulogy, the son tells the story of how it ultimately strengthened their relationship and helped him be a better version of himself.

“I want my father’s memory to help you and others.”

Here’s one of our short eulogy examples for a father who always kept his promises. Not only has this man picked out a positive character trait and focused on that, but he’s also used it to spark action and conversation among the other people attending the funeral. His father’s memory will inspire guests to follow through for their own loved ones.

“We were the light of her life, and she let us know it ‘til the end.”

“I know it may sound greedy to want more days with a person who lived so long, but the fact that my mother was 92 does not diminish, it only magnifies the enormity of the room whose doors have quietly shut.”

Not all of us will be lucky enough to have someone who can eulogise us on national television, but this tribute from American comedy legend Stephen Colbert is a fine eulogy example: a mother who taught her children to sing, dance, and pray in German is commemorated briefly but beautifully in his speech, which you can read in full here .

“She was my first teacher.”

In one of our longer funeral eulogy examples, a mother who believed in making things work is touchingly remembered. This feels like a complete picture of the person who’s died: someone vivacious, entertaining, community-minded, and endlessly resourceful. If you have the time, you can take it to show as many aspects of your loved one as you can.

“She had some trouble with technology.”

Good funny eulogy examples show that you don’t have to tell a long, complicated story with a setup and a punchline to get your audience chuckling – sometimes, just a phone call is enough. In just under four minutes, we learn that the person who’s died was intelligent, sweet, and caring, but she’s also left some laughter behind.

“That’s the kind of man I want to be.”

“Show, don’t tell” is good advice for eulogies as well as fiction. In this often funny, always touching eulogy example, a grandson describes his grandfather through a series of anecdotes that perfectly describe a man deeply loved by, and devoted to, his family.

If you can learn anything from the funeral eulogy examples you’ve seen here, let it be this: eulogies can be sweet or sharp, funny or sad, or all of those things at once – but they’re at their most effective when they’re spoken from the heart. Start with honesty, and mould it from there.

And now for something completely different.

When asked to eulogise his friend and colleague Graham Chapman, John Cleese realised he had a vitally important duty to carry out: to be the first person to drop the F-bomb at a British memorial service. We’re not suggesting this as a template, but think of it as some light relief as you search for a eulogy sample that inspires you.

For more funeral arrangement inspiration, check out our Advice Centre here.

Have you delivered or heard a great eulogy? We’d love to hear from you. Tell us all about it in the comment box below.

I am looking for a Chippewa funeral service speech service for my nephew’s funeral we are not having a preacher or a medicine Man for this cause no one wants to help our tribal council could help with this but they choose not to, cant understand why but so yes I am trying to do this task and I have been asking your site with no luck I have tried asking in so many different ways with no help so I will try a different site for hopefully better answers than I received from you

Well I tried leaving a message to be posted and it is now being read over to see if it’s credible for them to post it. well I just ain’t in a good spot right now and I don’t want to say anything bad so I love this site but they just couldn’t help me with anything so good luck with what ever you need to find

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9 Creative Ways to Remember Someone Who Has Died 0

When you lose someone, one of the scariest things about it is the idea that you might forget them. Or that the memory of losing them will overshadow the happier times you spent together.  The good news is this: you won’t forget them, ever. We promise. And there are ways of remembering someone who has died that can help you celebrate all the great things about them. Here are some suggestions…

9 special things to do to remember someone who has died

Not sure how to remember someone who has died ? We hope you’ll find some inspiration here.

Start a tradition for their birthday

Find something that helps you feel close to them, and do it each year. For example, you could:

• Do something your loved one liked to do
• Take a trip to a place that meant something to you both
• Have a big family dinner and raise a toast – and invite their close friends
• Light a candle for them in the evening

Build on what you know about them. Take a class in something they knew well. Go on their favourite dog walk. Take the day off and make all their favourite foods.

“My sister and I go to a 40s event on Mum’s birthday each year,” explains Rachel, a funeral arranger at our Aylesbury branch. “She was a child of the 40s, and it helps us remember how life would have been for her growing up.”

Talk to them

While this might feel a little odd at first, a lot of people find comfort in these talks. After the 2011 tsunami in Japan, one bereaved relative set up a disconnected ‘wind telephone’ in his garden so that he could talk to the family he lost. Since then, people from all over the area have come to talk to their loved ones.

Take a trip 

Go somewhere your loved one always wanted to go, do something they always wanted to do. A once-in-a-lifetime trip can be a fantastic way for a family to heal together after a rough year.

Keep something of theirs close by

Another (slightly more unusual) way of remembering someone special who has died is to get their ashes made into jewellery. Specialist craftspeople can suspend the ashes in glass or resin beads and place them in pendants, earrings, bracelets or rings. 

Go big with a firework display

A memorial fireworks display can be a lovely way to remember someone special. Team it with plenty of friends and family, some of your loved one’s favourite music, and some toasty hot drinks for a unique and cosy celebration of life.

The important thing here is safety. Always buy your fireworks from a registered seller or licenced shop and check that they are suitable for home use. Make sure bystanders are standing back as far as is recommended for that firework. You can find more safety advice here.

What about balloon, lantern, butterfly and dove launches? Here, it’s important to do your research to minimise the impact on local wildlife and pets. Always use biodegradable materials.

Get something dedicated to them

Not sure if the traditional park bench is the best way of remembering someone who has died ? There are all kinds of alternatives…

• For lovers of the performing arts, you can dedicate theatre, opera, or concert hall seats
• Football ground seats are a great way to remember fans of the beautiful game
• For music lovers, you can call in to your local radio station and dedicate their favourite song to them on their birthday
• You can get a rose named in memory of someone special , and give cuttings to family and friends
• Or dedicate a tree (or an acre of woodland ) to them with the Woodland Trust

Write to them

Not much of a letter writer? You’re not alone. When writer Rax King tweeted about the emails she sent her dad after he died, thousands of other people came forward to say that they did the same. Or sent texts, or g-chat messages.  While it’s best not to actually press ‘send’ on these (numbers can be reallocated to other people, email accounts closed) just the act of writing can bring comfort. 

Support a cause that mattered to them

Is there a cause your loved one cared deeply about that you could support? Or would you like to raise money for a charity that fights their final illness, or supports families like yours?

One of the best ways to remember someone who has died is to build something positive with their legacy. You could…

• Set up an online crowdfunding obituary that asks friends and family to donate
• Organise a fundraiser or do a charity run to raise money
• Sign up to donate a small amount each month in their memory
• Set up a scholarship or endowment at their old school, college or uni
• Launch a charitable trust or foundation of your own to lobby for a cause
• Sponsor a child (or even an animal) through a charity

Visit their grave or scattering place

If you like, you can also bring a wreath, bouquet or (land owner permitting) something to plant.  In Victorian times, people would often use flowers to send messages: each one had a special meaning. This old mourning custom is still a lovely way to express how you feel. E.g. rosemary for remembrance, white periwinkle for happy memories, an oak-leaved geranium for true friendship or marigolds for grief. 

Then again, a bouquet of your loved one’s favourites is an equally thoughtful gesture. At natural burial grounds, where planting rules are strict, a scattering of native wildflowers can also be a beautiful way to remember someone who has died.

Share your favourite ways to remember someone who has died

How do you remember the special people you’ve lost? Share your suggestions with other bereaved families in the comment section below. We’d love to hear your stories.

10 Funny Funeral Poems for an Uplifting Service 0

‘Funny funeral poems’ might sound like a bit of a contradiction. But humour isn’t always out of place at a farewell. When we celebrate someone’s life, we celebrate all of it, all of the best things about them — and that can mean laughter as well as sadness.

Here, we’ve gathered together 10 popular funny funeral poems to inspire you. We hope you’ll find something your loved one would have giggled at.

Pardon Me For Not Getting Up by Kelly Roper

There’s puns galore in this poem by Kelly Roper, writer and hospice volunteer. It’s a popular light-hearted reading, especially in funerals for people who were always taking care of others.

Told from the perspective of someone who has died, Pardon Me For Not Getting Up asks funeral guests to excuse them from hosting this time — and asks them to go ahead and celebrate their life nevertheless.

  A Long Cup of Tea by Michael Ashby

Is this the most British funeral poem of all time? Perhaps. Full of sly jokes (‘Please pick the biggest mug you can find / Size really does matter at this time’) Michael Ashby’s funeral poem is perfect for someone who loved to kick back with a cuppa. And who doesn’t?

The Busman’s Prayer by Anon

You can, of course, also write your own. Simply swap out the London locations for local landmarks with a similar sound.

Death by Joe Brainard

This wry, matter-of-fact poem by Joe Brainard has a lot of simple truth in it. And some very black humour. Noting that visualising death might help us not to be afraid, he adds:

“Try to visualize, for example, someone sneaking up behind your back and hitting you over the head with a giant hammer.”

If your friend or relative was a straightforward sort of person with an appreciation for the darker variety of jokes, this could be the one.

Warning by Jenny Joseph

It’s also an excellent message for us all: don’t let respectability get in the way of doing all the (silly) things that make you happy.

On a Tired Housewife by Anon

This anonymous poem has something of a dark backstory. But it’s now one of the nation’s favourite comic poems.

In it, the reader explains that after a lifetime of hard work, she’s actually looking forward to a restful eternal sleep. This makes it one of the more fitting funny funeral poems for a friend or parent who was always busy looking after their family.

Untitled jisei by Moriya Sen’an

Death by Sean Hughes

This poem, which describes Sean Hughes’ idea of a good funeral, is ideal for any ‘celebration of life’ style funeral service.

With free drinks and new friendships being forged, it actually does sound like a great way to send someone off. The poem was in fact read at Hughes’ own funeral.

I Didn’t Go To Church Today by Ogden Nash

Although light-hearted, the poem does have comfort for those at a funeral. As Nash shares, God will likely understand. After all, ‘He knows when I am said and done / We’ll have plenty of time together’.

Last Will and Testament by Will Scratchmann

One last note on funny funeral poems…

Giving a ‘funny’ reading at a funeral can be a bit nerve-wracking. What if it goes down badly? The best thing to ask yourself is what the person who has died would have thought. Does the poem sound like them? Is it something they might have found funny? After all, the day is all about them. And if you need advice on public speaking, take a look at our top tips from funeral celebrants.

Didn’t find the right funeral poem today? Not to worry. We have a round up of 33 beautiful non-religious funeral poems here to help you in your search.

7 Best Eulogies Ever Written

July 18, 2023

12 min read

Eulogies are pretty versatile. Some of the best eulogies ever written are emotional, brief, drawn-out, descriptive, respectful, or even humorous. It completely depends on the person giving the eulogy and the person the eulogy is for.

But there’s one thing they have in common — they exist to praise and remember someone who’s no longer living. 

We’ll introduce you to some of the best eulogies ever written (and how AI can help you analyze them).

How AI Can Help You Analyze the Best Eulogies Ever Written

Artificial intelligence is as accessible as ever and the ways in which it can be used are endless. For example, you can analyze the best eulogies ever written and pinpoint exactly why they’re considered the best of the best using AI . A tool like Yoodli can show you the data and metrics associated with the best eulogies.

Yoodli is a virtual speech coach that uses generative AI to analyze a person’s speech and speaking habits. It evaluates not only the content of what’s being said but also the delivery. As such, users get personalized insights on things like: 

• Word choice
• Filler word usage
• Conciseness
• Speaking pace and variation 
• And even body language, like facial expressions and eye contact

You can see these same valuable insights by uploading some of the best eulogies ever written to Yoodli. 

Learn more about how to use Yoodli to improve your own public speaking in our explainer video: 

Top 7 Best Eulogies Ever Written

There are many factors that can make a eulogy stand out, whether it’s the speech’s content or the speaker’s delivery. Regardless, eulogies are some of the most powerful types of speech out there. 

Here are the seven best eulogies ever written that honor and remember famous, influential people for who they were and what they stood for.

1. Maya Angelou’s Eulogy for Coretta Scott King

Writer and activist Coretta Scott King played a central role in the civil rights movement and ultimately helped change history surrounding the rights of Black Americans. She was known for uplifting and supporting those around her, including her husband, Martin Luther King, Jr. 

Her death on Jan. 30, 2006 led to an emotive 8-hour funeral in Lithonia, Georgia. Numerous presidents — including Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, and both George H. W. and George W Bush — attended her funeral. Future president Barack Obama was also in attendance. 

Famed writer and poet Maya Angelou wrote a beautiful, moving eulogy for King that stands out as one of the seven best eulogies ever written. In it, she breathes new life into the person King was, and illuminates her persona expertly.

" Her passion was never spent in public display. She offered her industry and her energies to action, toward righting ancient and current wrongs in this world. She believed religiously in nonviolent protest. She believed it could heal a nation mired in a history of slavery and all its excesses. She believed non-violent protest religiously could lift up a nation rife with prejudices and racial bias. She was a quintessential African-American woman, born in the small-town repressive South, born of flesh and destined to become iron, born — born a cornflower and destined to become a steel-magnolia. "

Angelou’s poignant eulogy is a shining example of what a eulogy should be: an emotive goodbye to someone who was loved, cherished, and will continue to be celebrated for decades to come.  

2. Oprah Winfrey’s Eulogy for Rosa Parks

The name Rosa Parks brings many connotations to mind: courage, defiance, valor, and equality, to name a few. Her life was incredibly monumental and her commitment to the fight for civil rights had lasting effects, particularly for the United States. 

Though Parks died on Oct. 24, 2005, her continuous activism earned her the titles “the mother of the freedom movement” and “the first lady of civil rights.” 

Oprah Winfrey, the famous talk show host and television producer, gave a thoughtful eulogy for Parks. 

" I’m here today to say a final thank you, Sister Rosa, for being a great woman who used your life to serve, to serve us all. That day that you refused to give up your seat on the bus, you, Sister Rosa, changed the trajectory of my life and the lives of so many other people in the world. I would not be standing here today nor standing where I stand every day had she not chosen to sit down. I know that. I know that. I know that. I know that, and I honor that. Had she not chosen to say we shall not — we shall not be moved. So I thank you again, Sister Rosa, for not only confronting the one white man who[se] seat you took, not only confronting the bus driver, not only for confronting the law, but for confronting history, a history that for 400 years said that you were not even worthy of a glance, certainly no consideration. I thank you for not moving. "

Because Winfrey has extensive experience with public speaking, her eulogy’s delivery was strong, emotional, and even motivational. In it, she discusses Parks’ role on her own life, from her childhood to her adulthood. 

Parks was an inspiration for Winfrey, and this is evident in her eulogy. She spoke on Parks’ lasting legacy — including her tireless activism and dedicated work toward equality — and how her work motivated not only Winfrey, but the entire world watching.

3. Bindi Irwin’s Eulogy for Steve Irwin

Steve Irwin’s death shocked the world. The famed Australian “Crocodile Hunter” died on Sept. 4, 2006, after a stingray barb punctured his chest. 

Steve was a famous environmentalist, conservationist, and zookeeper, and made such a lasting impact on the natural world that he even had a species of snail named after him: the Crikey steveirwini .

His funeral service took place that same month and his 8-year-old daughter, Bindi, delivered the eulogy. In fact, she asked her mother if she could give the eulogy, despite the fact that she’d have a global audience of 300 million TV viewers.

Her eulogy was both inspirational and heart-breaking all at the same time. Bindi recalled memories of spending time with father and mentioned a growing passion for continuing her father’s impressive work. 

" We filmed together, caught crocodiles together and loved being in the bush together. I don’t want Daddy’s passion to ever end. I want to help endangered wildlife just like he did. I have the best Daddy in the whole world and I will miss him every day. When I see a crocodile I will always think of him and I know that Daddy made this zoo so everyone could come and learn to love all the animals. Daddy made this place his whole life and now it’s our turn to help Daddy. "

Bindi is definitely the youngest on our list of the seven best eulogies ever written and yet she delivered one of the most powerful speeches during an extremely difficult, distressing time. 

4. John Cleese’s Eulogy for Graham Chapman

British actor and comedian Graham Chapman was someone who knew how to make people laugh. And he did it often, especially as a member of the comedy group Monty Python. In fact, most people recognize him from his roles in the films “Life of Brian” and “Holy Grail.” 

After he died on Oct. 4, 1989, Chapman’s good friend John Cleese delivered the most humorous eulogy on the list — perhaps the most humorous ever. 

Though humor is often avoided in eulogies, Cleese stepped into his role as a comedian and gave a eulogy he thought Chapman would’ve enjoyed. 

He shared memories full of shock humor and celebrated Chapman’s successes, especially those relating to his work as a comedian. 

" But bolder and less inhibited spirits than me follow today. Jones and Idle, Gilliam and Palin. Heaven knows what the next hour will bring in Graham’s name. Trousers dropping, blasphemers on pogo sticks, spectacular displays of high-speed farting, synchronized incest. One of the four is planning to stuff a dead ocelot and a 1922 Remington typewriter up his own arse to the sound of the second movement of Elgar’s cello concerto. And that’s in the first half. Because you see, Gray would have wanted it this way. Really. Anything for him but mindless good taste. And that’s what I’ll always remember about him — apart, of course, from his Olympian extravagance. He was the prince of bad taste. He loved to shock. In fact, Gray, more than anyone I knew, embodied and symbolized all that was most offensive and juvenile in Monty Python. And his delight in shocking people led him on to greater and greater feats. I like to think of him as the pioneering beacon that beat the path along which fainter spirits could follow. "

By the end of his eulogy, Cleese became the first-ever person to say “fuck” during a televised British memorial service — an achievement that no doubt would’ve amused Chapman to no end.

You can watch Cleese’s eulogy below. 

5. Mona Simpson’s Eulogy for Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs, the inventor and co-founder, CEO, and chairman of Apple, died on Oct. 5, 2011. His sister, Mona Simpson, gave a heartfelt eulogy at Jobs’ funeral.

Simpson — who was actually Jobs’ long-lost sister — wrote a eulogy which was read during the service. In it, she recalls the first time she met him, his impressive work ethic, his loyalty, and his philosophy. 

She paints Jobs not as the renowned business magnate in his signature black turtleneck. Instead, Simpson presents her version of her brother: an intelligent but emotional, kind-hearted man who cherished his family. 

" Novelty was not Steve’s highest value. Beauty was. For an innovator, Steve was remarkably loyal. If he loved a shirt, he’d order 10 or 100 of them. In the Palo Alto house, there are probably enough black cotton turtlenecks for everyone in this church. He didn’t favor trends or gimmicks. He liked people his own age. His philosophy of aesthetics reminds me of a quote that went something like this: “Fashion is what seems beautiful now but looks ugly later; art can be ugly at first but it becomes beautiful later.” Steve always aspired to make beautiful later. "

Despite the hurdles Jobs faced early in the industry, his dedication to his job led him to success. 

Simpson’s eulogy for her brother is a beautiful retelling of the 27 years she knew Jobs. Although the majority of the world only recognizes Jobs as the co-founder of the world’s largest tech company, Simpson shows us a more human version of the same man. 

This eulogy leverages Simpson’s many anecdotes to elucidate the kind of person Jobs was, making it one of the seven best eulogies ever written.

6. Charles Spencer’s Eulogy for Princess Diana of Wales

The death of Princess Diana of Wales was one that shook the entire world. That’s how influential she was. 

Princess Diana died on Aug. 31, 1997, following a car accident. As the world was still reeling, Diana’s brother, Charles Spencer, gave his eulogy for Diana. In it, Spencer described his sister — the people’s Princess — and her humanitarian, caring nature. 

" " Diana was the very essence of compassion, of duty, of style, of beauty. All over the world she was a symbol of selfless humanity. All over the world, a standard bearer for the rights of the truly downtrodden, a very British girl who transcended nationality. Someone with a natural nobility who was classless and who proved in the last year that she needed no royal title to continue to generate her particular brand of magic. " "

He also spoke of some of the hardships she faced, particularly at the hands of what he referred to as “the media.” Princess Diana was constantly hounded and harassed by paparazzi, and was indeed being chased by paparazzi moments before the car crash that ended her life. 

Spencer even mentioned the irony of her name, as she was “given the name of the ancient goddess of hunting,” yet died as the “most hunted person of the modern age.” 

His eulogy for Diana was simultaneously powerful and devastating — A somber funeral speech for one of the most loved figures in history. 

7. Barack Obama’s Eulogy for Rep. John Lewis

Though Barack Obama has always been a strong, effective speaker, his eulogy for John Lewis was especially powerful. 

Lewis died on July 17, 2020, leaving behind an impressive legacy. He was a civil rights activist and represented Georgia’s 5th congressional district. 

Though his death was a somber occasion at a tumultuous time during the beginnings of the COVID-19 pandemic, Obama expertly delivered this tribute to an American hero. 

" The life of John Lewis was, in so many ways, exceptional. It vindicated the faith in our founding, redeemed that faith; that most American of ideas; that idea that any of us ordinary people without rank or wealth or title or fame can somehow point out the imperfections of this nation, and come together, and challenge the status quo, and decide that it is in our power to remake this country that we love until it more closely aligns with our highest ideals. What a radical ideal. What a revolutionary notion. This idea that any of us, ordinary people, a young kid from Troy can stand up to the powers and principalities and say no this isn’t right, this isn’t true, this isn’t just. We can do better. On the battlefield of justice, Americans like John, Americans like the Reverends Lowery and C.T. Vivian, two other patriots that we lost this year, liberated all of us that many Americans came to take for granted. America was built by people like them. America was built by John Lewises. He as much as anyone in our history brought this country a little bit closer to our highest ideals. And someday, when we do finish that long journey toward freedom; when we do form a more perfect union — whether it’s years from now, or decades, or even if it takes another two centuries — John Lewis will be a founding father of that fuller, fairer, better America. "

His words helped solidify Lewis’ legacy and place as a key player in American history, and is certainly a worthy pick for the seven best eulogies ever written. 

The Main Takeaway

Giving a eulogy can be an extremely daunting task. If you’ve written an eulogy and plan to deliver it aloud, an AI speech coach like Yoodli can help you practice and improve until you feel confident. 

Unlike other speech coaches, Yoodli is completely free. Try it out today to start gaining more confidence when public speaking. 

Start practicing with Yoodli.

Getting better at speaking is getting easier. Record or upload a speech and let our AI Speech Coach analyze your speaking and give you feedback.

• Professional Eulogy Writing Service
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Professional Eulogy Writing

Eulogy writing guide, funeral speeches for a work colleague, tribute speech to dad from daughter, funeral speech writing advice, good eulogy speeches.

• February 24, 2024

Table of Contents

1. Opening remarks

The art of honoring spiritual mentors with heartfelt eulogies, crafting stories of eternal bonds and spiritual honor, expressions of deep gratitude: reflections from our patrons.

• What is a eulogy speech?

Who typically gives a eulogy?

How long should a eulogy be, what should be included in a eulogy speech, can i use humor in a eulogy, is it acceptable to write the eulogy down, or should it be memorized, how do i start a eulogy, how can i write a eulogy if i'm overwhelmed with emotion, can a eulogy be a group effort, do i need to be formal when delivering a eulogy, how can i handle speaking in public when i'm already dealing with grief, should the eulogy include every aspect of a person's life, how can i close the eulogy, what if i become too emotional to continue speaking, is it appropriate to acknowledge the cause of death in the eulogy, can children deliver a eulogy, how can i personalize a eulogy, how do i ensure that my eulogy resonates with the audience, is it okay to mention regrets or apologies in a eulogy, what should i avoid saying in a eulogy, how do i handle writing a eulogy for someone i had a complicated relationship with, 2. relationship with the deceased, 3. personal memories and anecdotes, 4. highlight achievements and contributions, 5. quotes, readings, or lyrics, 6. closing thoughts and wishes, good eulogy speeches example.

Delivering a eulogy is a moment of profound significance – a rare opportunity to honor a loved one, acknowledge their impact, and express our gratitude for their presence in our lives. Good eulogy speeches are heartfelt and reflective, encompassing love, appreciation, and often humor. They offer solace and comfort, turning a somber occasion into a celebration of life.

This article shares guidelines for crafting good eulogy speeches, along with realistic examples and tips to make the writing process smoother. We also introduce Eulogy Assistant , designed to help you create a personalized tribute for your beloved in minutes.

Set the tone by thanking attendees for coming and acknowledging the pain of loss. Start with a brief yet powerful statement that encapsulates the essence of the deceased.

Example: "Family and friends, thank you for joining us today to celebrate the life of a kind heart, (Name), who filled our lives with love, laughter, and endless inspiration."

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Establishing credibility is essential. Briefly introduce yourself and describe your relationship with the deceased, highlighting their human qualities and their importance to you.

Example: "Most of you know me as (Your Name). I am (Name)'s [sister/brother/son/daughter/friend]. Our bond was truly a gift, as (Name) showed me the value of resilience, optimism, and genuine care for others."

Share meaningful memories that illustrate the deceased’s qualities and their impact on others. Make sure these are relatable, engaging, and evoke a range of emotions.

Example: "(Name) had an uncanny ability to make us smile even in the direst of circumstances. I recall a time when we were stranded in heavy rain, and (he/she/they) decided to turn our misfortune into an opportunity for a spontaneous dance-off. As the onlookers joined in, it was evident that (Name)'s contagiously joyful spirit could brighten even the stormiest days."

Mention the deceased's accomplishments, such as career success, community involvement, or being a loving parent or spouse. Focusing on their positive impact can comfort listeners.

Example: "(Name) dedicated countless hours to their work at the animal shelter. To many of the volunteers and rescued animals, (Name)'s kindness and dedication turned the shelter into a haven of love and healing."

Eulogy speeches can be enhanced by incorporating the deceased's favorite quotes, poems, or song lyrics that have a particular resonance.

Example: "As (Name) would often say, 'In the end, it's not the years in your life that count; it's the life in your years.' – Abraham Lincoln."

Summarize your reflections and close by wishing your loved one peace or expressing hope for the future.

Example: "As we bid our final farewells to (Name), we hold close their love, wisdom, and indomitable spirit. May their laughter echo in our hearts forever."

Attempting to compress a lifetime of memories and emotions into a brief speech can feel overwhelming, especially during times of loss. Our Eulogy Assistant simplifies the writing process, working in tandem with you to create a heartfelt, personalized eulogy that honors the memory of your loved one.

Distinguished family, friends, and loved ones, we are gathered here today not just in grief, but also in celebration of the life of a remarkable individual, Jane Doe, whose spirit touched so many of us in this room.

Writing a eulogy for someone as special as Jane feels like an impossible task because how can one encapsulate a life so full, so vibrant, and so impactful in mere words? Yet, here I stand, with the honor of attempting to do justice to the narrative of a woman whom we all cherished.

Jane came into this world like a burst of sunlight on a winter's morn, and from her first breath, she was a force of nature. Daughter to John and Jane Sr., sister to Ann and Tom, a dedicated partner, an adored mother, and a friend beyond measure, Jane occupied each of these roles with unparalleled passion and commitment.

Her early years were a testament to the creativity and curiosity that would define her life. A born artist, she would spend hours with her hands covered in paint, sculpting the dreams that flitted across her vibrant imagination. Her parents loved to recount how even at a tender age, Jane's artwork would not just inhabit fridge doors but the hearts of all who beheld it.

The indelible mark she left in the sand of time is filled with her kindness, her tenacity, and the love she so freely offered to others. The world is a canvas, and Jane painted her journey in bold strokes filled with the brightest of colors. Even during the times when her own life's hues dimmed with struggle or sorrow, she always found light, and with her inherent strength, she painted over the shadows with hope and perseverance.

Jane's professional life was as an educator, and her passion for teaching was more than a career; it was a calling. She believed that every child deserved a champion—an adult who would never give up on them, who understood the power of connection, and insisted they become the best they could possibly be. And for over thirty years, she was that champion for countless students.

Her colleagues speak of her relentless dedication, her innovative methods, and the laughter—so much laughter—that infused her classroom. For Jane, teaching was not about relaying information; it was about instilling wisdom, fostering wonder, and nurturing potential.

There are endless stories to share about Jane, and I find solace in knowing that each of you carries a unique and cherished narrative of how she brightened your life. It could have been through her contagious enthusiasm when sharing a success or the comfort she provided when easing a pain. Jane's empathy was profound—it transcended mere understanding and veered into the realm of truly experiencing another's feelings alongside them.

Family was Jane's cornerstone, the foundation upon which she built everything else. Her partnership with Michael was a testament to love's endurance. They shared a love that was as playful as it was deep, as steadfast as it was spontaneous. They were the rhythm to each other's melody in a song of a lifetime—a composition that resonates within us all today.

To Sarah and David, Jane was the epitome of a mother—present, supportive, and unwavering. She was their fiercest advocate and their gentlest critic. With her guidance, they've grown into individuals who embody her spirit and who will no doubt carry on her legacy of kindness and purpose.

Jane's sense of adventure was insatiable. Together with her family and friends, she traveled the world, not just to see sights, but to absorb cultures, understand communities, and connect with people on a genuinely human level. To Jane, a stranger was simply a friend she hadn't met yet, and it was these connections, often brief but always profound, that she treasured and often recounted with sparkling eyes and animated gestures.

Her hobbies were as varied as the changing seasons. An avid gardener, a voracious reader, a passionate cook—each interest was pursued with her characteristic zeal. She often said that in another life, she would have been a chef as she reveled in the alchemy of ingredients, creating dishes that were as much a feast for the eyes as they were for the palate. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, filled with aromas that beckoned and laughter that lingered.

As we bid farewell to Jane today, let us reflect on the beauty she harnessed in her lifetime. Her laughter, which could turn tides. Her voice, which could soothe souls. Her hands, which could craft wonders. But most importantly, her heart, which loved without limit.

On hearing of her passing, we feel a multitude of emotions—sorrow, disbelief, and a tumultuous longing for just one more moment with her. Yet, amongst these waves of emotion, let us remember what Jane epitomized: Life. A life lived with fervor, with authenticity, with an openness that drew people to her as if by magnetic force.

And so, as we stand amidst our collective heartache, let us also stand in gratitude. Gratitude for the years Jane graced us with her presence, for the lessons she imparted, for the compassion she proliferated. May we take solace in the idea that her light, though no longer a physical flame, ignites a fire within each of us—a fire that propels us to love more deeply, to live more fully, and to make each day count just as she did.

In memory of Jane, let us continue to weave the tapestry of kinship and community she cherished so fervently. Let us share stories of her valor and virtue. Let us laugh amidst our tears and find strength in our shared remembrance.

In the words of Calvin Coolidge, "No person was ever honored for what they received. Honor has been the reward for what they gave." Jane gave immeasurably. Let's honor her by giving as wholeheartedly as she did, by living a life that pays tribute to her extraordinary legacy.

Thank you, Jane, for everything.

Eulogy Companion: Illuminating Souls with Words of Tribute

In the silent moments of remembrance for a cherished spiritual mentor, the delicate process of converting your deep admiration and treasured recollections into the written word can seem as intricate as capturing the first light of dawn. Eulogy Companion is by your side during this poignant assignment, masterfully merging dignified praise with genuine sentiment, turning treasured moments into immortal homages.

Our adept team, seasoned in the delicate craft of sensitive eulogy writing, dedicates itself to steering you toward a eulogy that echoes the soft wisdom and abiding influence of your spiritual guide. Eulogy Companion offers more than a mere service; we offer a heartfelt collaboration, steeped in sensitivity and recognition, devoted to commemorating a life enriched with spiritual insight.

At Eulogy Companion, we emphasize the importance of a joint venture in the creation of a eulogy that truly resonates with the soul. Collaborating closely with you, we meld your intimate anecdotes and sincere expressions with our professionalism, creating a venerated homage that reverberates with honest connections.

Our method revolves around genuine interaction and a mutual creative pursuit. Your intimate tales and revelations are crucial in shaping a story that faithfully conveys the spirit of your spiritual leader's heritage. This voyage goes beyond mere chronicles of life; it's an endeavor to capture the core of their spiritual teachings and the magnitude of their legacy.

United in our mission, we strive to portray a genuine representation of your spiritual guide – a eulogy that elevates beyond customary memorials, imbued with honor, emotional ties, and heartfelt sympathy. Our collective endeavors result in a eulogy that is a beautiful narrative mosaic, mirroring the profound respect and love your spiritual guide has evoked.

The true value of our work is highlighted in the words of those we've had the privilege to assist. Their earnest articulations of thanks and esteem from our patrons serve as the true stamp of our commitment.

Facing the challenge of paying homage to my spiritual guide was daunting, but Eulogy Companion was my pillar of unfaltering backing, enabling me to fashion a eulogy that genuinely celebrated their essence and enlightenment," shares Rachel in her testimonial.

Michael reflects, "In a period of grief, the compassionate and expert assistance from Eulogy Companion was a soothing force. They supported me in composing a eulogy that conveyed more than just words - it was a sincere and moving homage to my spiritual leader."

These testimonies emphasize our devotion to crafting eulogies that go beyond the confines of formal orations, but rather stand as earnest commemorations of honor, respect, and timeless remembrance. It's our honor to be your ally in this pilgrimage, paying homage to the distinctive legacies of those who have left a significant imprint on our hearts, and creating eulogies that embody their spiritual sagacity.

Join us in forging narratives that are not only deeply personal and reverential, but truly embody the light of the inspirational spiritual figures who have graced our paths.

Frequently Asked Questions What is a eulogy speech?

A eulogy speech is a tribute delivered at a funeral or memorial service to commemorate the life of the deceased. It is an opportunity to reflect on the person's character, their life's achievements, and the impact they had on those around them.

A eulogy can be given by anyone close to the deceased, such as a family member, friend, or colleague. It is common for children, siblings, or partners of the deceased to give a eulogy, but there are no strict rules on who can speak.

While there's no strict time limit, a eulogy typically lasts between 5 to 10 minutes. This time frame is usually enough to share meaningful stories and reflections without being too lengthy for the audience.

A eulogy speech should include personal anecdotes, stories that capture the essence of the deceased, mentions of their accomplishments, their virtues, and the impact they've had on others. It's also common to include thanks to those who supported the deceased through their life or illness.

Yes, if it's in good taste and reflects the personality of the deceased. Humor can bring lightness to a somber occasion and help celebrate the life of the individual rather than only mourning their death.

It is perfectly acceptable, and even advised, to write your eulogy down. Most people find comfort in having a written copy to refer to during such an emotional time, and it helps in keeping your speech coherent and focused.

Begin with an introduction of yourself and your relationship to the deceased. A meaningful quote, poem, or anecdote about the deceased can also be a touching way to start a eulogy.

Take your time and write in a peaceful setting where you can reflect on your memories of the deceased. You may also find it helpful to talk with other friends or family members to gather stories and insights. If you’re too overwhelmed, consider asking someone else to deliver the speech on your behalf.

Yes, it's common for multiple people to contribute stories or memories that can be woven into a single eulogy, or for several individuals to each deliver a short eulogy during the service.

The tone of a eulogy is often determined by the deceased's personality and the expectations of the family. It doesn't necessarily need to be highly formal; it should be heartfelt and sincere.

Public speaking can be challenging, especially during such a sensitive time. Practicing the eulogy beforehand, speaking slowly, and allowing yourself to show emotion can make the task easier. Remember that the audience is there to support you.

While it's important to give a rounded view of the person, a eulogy doesn't have to be an exhaustive biography. Focus on the most significant and representative aspects of their life and character.

Closing the eulogy can be done by summarizing the key points you've made, offering words of comfort to the attendees, expressing hope, or ending with a final anecdote that encapsulates the spirit of the deceased.

It's natural to become emotional during a eulogy. If you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to pause and collect yourself. It's okay to show emotion, and the audience will understand. If necessary, you can ask someone else to finish reading the eulogy for you.

Mentioning the cause of death is a personal choice and should be handled with sensitivity. If it's an integral part of the story of the person's life, it may be relevant to include. However, the focus should generally be on celebrating the life they lived, not the details of their death.

Yes, children can absolutely deliver a eulogy if they feel comfortable doing so. It can be a way for them to process their grief and express their love for the deceased.

Personalize a eulogy by including specific stories, memories, or sayings that are unique to the deceased. This could involve mentioning their hobbies, traditions, or even favorite phrases.

To resonate with the audience, speak from the heart and focus on sharing the essence of who the deceased was. Connect with the audience through eye contact, a calm tone, and by expressing your genuine emotions.

While a eulogy is generally a tribute, mentioning regrets or apologies may be appropriate if it provides closure or peace to the family. Be sure to handle such topics delicately and considerately.

Avoid controversial subjects, airing grievances, or anything else that may cause distress to the family and friends of the deceased. Keep the focus on honoring the memory of the person you're remembering.

Focus on the positive aspects of their life and any good memories you may have. It's okay to acknowledge that no one is perfect without delving into negative details. Seek contributions from others who may have different perspectives to provide a more balanced tribute.

Looking For Examples? Here Are Some of The Best Eulogies

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

A eulogy is a speech of remembrance typically given at a funeral or memorial service to pay tribute to someone who has died.

Writing a successful eulogy, like writing an obituary , can be challenging but also enriching, providing a moment to reflect meaningfully on the life and legacy of a beloved family member, friend, or colleague. Drawing on stories and memories, accomplishments, lessons learned, or favorite quotes, the eulogy is an expression of why this person was important and how they’ll be remembered now that they’re gone. 

“This is something that’s a big deal to people,” says Linnea Crowther, Legacy’s top tribute-writing expert. “You’ve just lost someone, a dear friend or family member — now you have to quickly gather your thoughts, write a speech, and deliver it to a roomful of people.”

This step-by-step guide has everything you need to know about how to write a eulogy, including how long the eulogy should be, how to research and gather information before you write, what to include in the eulogy, and how to edit and revise your speech. Use this eulogy writing guide to help you craft and deliver a special eulogy that pays tribute to the life and legacy of someone important to you.

Eulogy Examples: Eulogy for a Father Eulogy for a Mother Eulogy for a Grandmother Eulogy for an Uncle Eulogy for a Child

How Long is a Eulogy?

A eulogy is usually between 5 and 10 minutes long. As you write your eulogy, aim for about 750-1500 written words (or 1-2 typed pages, single-spaced) — this should be about 5-10 minutes when spoken. Plan to spend at least an hour or two writing and editing the eulogy, plus time to practice speaking. Also set aside additional time for reaching out to family or friends to collect anecdotes or other details to include in the eulogy, as well as gathering your own thoughts.  

What to Include in a Eulogy?

A eulogy can include anecdotes, accomplishments, favorite quotes — any details that help paint a picture of the personality of the deceased. The eulogy you write might include: 

• A brief recounting of their life story 
• Insights into their relationships with family and close friends (“He was the best dad a kid could have” “She and her granddaughter were thick as thieves”) 
• Career milestones and accomplishments (“She was the first in her family to graduate from college” “He was proud of his work with homeless vets”) 
• Achievements related to personal goals, interests, or hobbies (“She was determined not just to run a marathon but to win” “He spent countless hours on his boat, sailing with his trusty first mate — his grandson”) 
• Your favorite memories (“I remember the road trip to Kentucky with my grandparents — my grandmother was the navigator which meant she spent most of the drive yelling, ‘You’re going the wrong way!’”) 
• Favorite quotes, poems, songs, proverbs and/or religious writings 
• Their own words — a catchphrase or mantra, perhaps, or a poem or song they wrote   

Keep your audience in mind: most eulogies will be delivered to people of all ages and backgrounds. Any stories, jokes, songs, quotes should be appropriate for a diverse, family audience. 

Remember that a eulogy is a tribute, an expression of love, not a “fair and balanced” accounting of a life. A eulogy should highlight a person’s positive qualities — not focus on the negative or try to set the record straight.  

Of course, we all have flaws. No one is perfect and it’s OK for eulogies to reflect that. If a defining characteristic of your grandmother was that she was always complaining, feel free to include that in her eulogy (especially if you can temper with something more positive, like “behind the gruff exterior was a woman who loved her family with all her heart.”) 

Writing the Eulogy  

1. gather memories .

Start by reminiscing about the person you are eulogizing. Think about what made them unique or defined them as a person. These can be big personality traits or small quirky details: 

• Did he have a clever catchphrase? Mix a mean martini? 
• Was she passionate about opera? Did she have a special love for lizards? 
• Was he the life of the party? Or did he prefer to be by himself in the woods? 
• Did she persevere to overcome obstacles in her life?   

Also think about your relationship with this person: 

• When did you first meet him? 
• What will you miss most about her? 
• What is your favorite memory of him? 
• How did she change your life for the better?    

As you reminisce, jot down anything that comes to mind.  

Next, reach out to other family members, friends, and/or colleagues and ask them to share their memories. They can help to fill in gaps in your memory, confirm key details, or offer a fresh perspective on the life of the deceased. Together, these shared memories will shape your tribute. 

2. Organize Your Thoughts 

Look through your notes and start to group the stories and remembrances you’ve collected. You may begin to see a common thread. Maybe everyone you spoke with recalled her biting sense of humor or mentioned his enthusiastic cheering at basketball games.

Maybe many stories shared are about how she always got the last word, or how he quietly helped behind the scenes. Whatever the common thread, it can be the theme that ties your eulogy together: 

• “Kathy was always the funniest person in the room”   
• “Zach was always there for his family — yelling loudly from the stands”    
• “Doris never met a stranger”    
• “What makes a loyal friend? Just ask those fortunate enough to be friends with Bob.”   
• “Margaret was the bravest woman I’ve ever known”   

If a theme doesn’t stand out, try asking a question. Pose a general question about the person (like “Who was Ozell Hinkle?” or “What did I learn from my grandmother?”) and use the details you’ve gathered to answer it. This can help give structure to your speech.  

Remember, while it’s good to get input from others, you don’t need to include every detail and story shared with you. Highlight what you feel is most important to honor the deceased.  

Also, there’s no need to make a profound statement about life and death. Your listeners want to hear a loving tribute to someone who was important to them. So, focus on the life and legacy of the deceased and what they meant to you.   

3. Write a Draft 

Now that you’ve gathered and organized, it’s time to weave these pieces together to create a narrative about this person.  

The eulogy is a speech, so write as you would speak. Don’t try to be too formal, and don’t worry about grammar or spelling.  

In this first draft, don’t hold back; let it all come out. Just get your thoughts down on paper. 

Once you’ve written all you want to say, set the eulogy aside for a little while. It’s a good idea to take a break before you begin editing so you can look at what you’ve written with fresh eyes. 

4. Review and Edit 

Read your eulogy. Again, don’t worry about grammar or spelling. Does the eulogy make sense? Will listeners understand what you’re trying to say? Does it capture the spirit of your loved one? 

Have you said enough? Add any other important details that are missing. Consider including a meaningful quote or poem. Make sure what you want people to know about this person comes through clearly. For example, if you really want people to appreciate what a loving father he was, include examples of the ways he showed his children how much he cared.  

Have you said too much? Remove anything negative, confrontational, or otherwise inappropriate for a eulogy. If the eulogy long, look for places where you repeat yourself, make the same point more than once, or include a lot of detailed information. Try combining repetitive sections to reduce the length of the speech.

Take out extra details, especially if they don’t support your main point. Remember you don’t need to tell this person’s entire life story: focus on how and why they were important to you. 

5. Practice Your Speech 

Giving a speech is different from reading out loud what you’ve written, so it’s helpful to practice ahead of time. The better rehearsed you are, the easier it will be to deliver the speech when the time comes. You don’t have to memorize your eulogy, but you should know it well enough that you can deliver it without having to read word-for-word. 

• Speak slowly and clearly. It’s also important to speak loudly so the people in the back can hear. If you have a quiet voice, ask someone to stand far away so you can practice being heard at a distance.  
• Try to look up from your written speech as much as possible so you can connect with your audience and be heard more easily. Enlist a loved one to help you or practice your speech while standing at the mirror or looking out a window. This will help you focus on something that isn’t the paper you’re holding.  
• Time yourself saying the eulogy out loud. If it’s longer than 15 minutes, you may want to look for ways to condense your speech. If your eulogy is fewer than 5 minutes, you may want to add more. Each time you make changes, practice saying the newest version out loud. 
• Practice delivering the full and complete eulogy at least twice, or as many times as you need to feel comfortable.  
• Before the funeral or memorial service, print a copy of your eulogy in large, easily readable font and staple or number them to keep them in the proper order. You may want to print an extra copy just in case. Be sure to save a copy on your computer.    

Delivering the Eulogy

On the day of the funeral, come prepared with your speech, glasses (if needed), tissues, and a bottle of water. 

Be kind to yourself. This may be the most difficult speech you’ll ever give. This may be your first time addressing a large group of people. You may be nervous. You will be emotional. 

Let yourself cry if you need to. It’s normal to feel and show emotions, especially at a time like this. You will never have a more sympathetic audience. 

Take a deep breath and take your time. Pause if you need to. Speak slowly, clearly, and loud enough to be heard by all. This is your time to say in your own words why this person mattered. 

If you feel strongly that you are unable to deliver the eulogy , ask someone else ahead of time to give the speech for you. Giving a speech is challenging enough in the best of times, and some may be too overwhelmed after a loved one’s death to present the eulogy. We all react to the death of a loved one in our own way, says eulogy expert Florence Isaacs, so do what feels most comfortable.  

Remember, you don’t have to be an expert orator to deliver a eulogy. People want to hear words of remembrance that connect them to other mourners and provide comfort, says Isaacs. You are there to say a few simple words about someone who was important to you and those around you.

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Eulogy Examples

Here are a few examples of eulogies written by real people to pay tribute to family and friends.

Eulogy for a Father

By  Josh Kruger  for his dad, delivered April 7, 2018:

“A man,” my father once told me, “needs a purpose. He needs a reason to get up in the morning.”

While my Dad’s words were often reflections of his own life experiences, sometimes, my Dad’s words were just plain funny.

“So, when you look at a man,” he once asked me after I came out as gay, “you get the same feeling that I do when I see a woman?”

“Yes,” I replied, “that’s exactly right.”

“Oh,” he paused. “Oh my.”

And with that, we perfectly understood each other.

My father was many things, but most of all he was a good man.

He taught us how to be men: to rise above challenges, to be responsible, to stand up to bullies, to protect the vulnerable, to live honestly, to reverse course when you’re wrong, to never back down when you’re right, to let your actions, not words, determine who you are.

Dad worked diligently for years to ensure that Mom would be OK even if he weren’t around anymore.

Our whole lives, Dad, being sometimes too practical just like his own father who was also named Ken, told me and Zach about that, telling us where the important information was and what we had to do if things ever got to that point.

Then, one day, suddenly and completely unexpectedly, things got to that point.

And, at that point, we were able to be with him, all day, every day, holding his hand, telling him we loved him.

Despite the traumatic circumstances for us in the end, circumstances that would smash anyone into countless emotional fragments, we came together as a family. Our hearts were breaking, but we were united in love — for Dad and each other.

And, we did everything exactly as Dad wanted.

Still, one of the hardest things we had to do as a family was let Dad go.

The day before he died, it was snowing. We drove to the peaceful place Dad spent his last days, and we again stayed with him all day. There were no loud hospital machines anymore as there were the week prior. Instead, there was a stillness. And it was the kind of place Dad would want to be at in the end.

After he died, we had a lot of work to do. Zach and I swung into action, making calls, filing paperwork, protecting Mom as best we could. Our actions, integrity, and, if I may say so, our grace during this time is a testament to the character that Dad built in us.

We had no idea the men we could be, or the men we had grown into.

He was always willing to help us, to give us second, third, fourth chances if we helped ourselves and did our part, too.

It is now clear that Dad was training us just as life, and maybe even drill sergeants, had trained him.

It is a blessing to have had such a father, a friend, a brother, a colleague, a husband.

…my father’s legacy will be one of a courageous, compassionate man with an exceptional life story, unparalleled integrity, countless friends, and a family that loved him.

I will miss him more than I have ever missed anyone or anything in my entire life. And I know I am not alone in that.

What a legacy it is to be remembered — and truly, dearly missed — by those who love you.

And, what a legacy it is to be remembered because of love.

Read the complete eulogy

Eulogy for a Mother

By Anonymous:

On May 13th, I lost my mom and my very best friend. Not only that, but my kids lost their amazing grandma. She valued and treasured her family above all else, and she was there for every milestone in my life as well as my kids’ lives. Through good times and bad, she stuck by us, championing and supporting us every step of the way.  

When Lauren needed surgery, my mom was by our sides at every test and doctor’s appointment. The day of the surgery, she paced back and forth in front of the gift shop, waiting impatiently for it to open, so that she could comfort Lauren with a stuffed animal and huge balloon. 

When Kristen was hospitalized for two days in the 7th grade, my mom was right there with us. One of the days we were there, I remember stepping away from Kristen’s room to go grab some lunch. When I came back, I walked in on my mom lecturing the doctor, yelling things like “No one talks to Princess Kristen like that.” 

When Andrew was in 3rd grade, we had some issues with a teacher. While most grandparents would refrain from getting involved in situations like this, that just wasn’t my mom. She was right there with me, standing up for her grandson. 

My kids have truly been blessed with the most amazing, loving, and caring Grandma. She was, among so many other things, their protector, teacher, and biggest fan. No matter what, my mom did everything in her power to put smiles on her grandchildren’s faces and make sure that they knew just how much she loved them. We are fortunate to have so many wonderful memories of my mom. 

In addition to being a devoted grandmother, my mom was also my caregiver, teacher, therapist, and best friend. Most of all, though, my mom was my hero. She was always there when I needed her most and in ways I can’t even begin to describe. 

And now she’s my guardian angel. The day you took your last breath, a piece of me went with you. Goodbye mom, my angel. 

You will always be loved, always be missed, and always be in my heart. 

Eulogy for a Grandmother

By Jessica Campbell for her grandmother  Jean Breland Campbell , delivered Sept. 2, 2018:

The day I was born, there was a bad storm in Tuscaloosa. The wind damaged the roof of Granny’s house. But she never seemed to hold it against me. 

Occasionally, when Granny and Granddaddy road-tripped, they took me along for the ride. We went with them to the World’s Fairs in Knoxville and New Orleans. One year, they took Carrie and me on a trip to Tennessee and Kentucky. Highlights included Opryland, Cracker Barrel (the first time we’d ever been), Mammoth Caves, Lincoln’s birthplace. But before we could get to Tennessee, we had to get out of Birmingham. I will never forget driving through downtown and north Birmingham with Granny yelling at Granddaddy “You’re going the wrong way!” 

Berating Granddaddy was a constant. He would launch into a story, and she would talk over him, chiding him “You’re telling it wrong!” And then when he kept talking, she would turn to the rest of us and say, “He’s not telling it right…”  

When Granddaddy died, her complaining about him subsided. Conversations instead focused on her health, Alabama football, the worldly whereabouts of assorted children and grandchildren. But in my last visit with Granny in July, she came through with one last dig at Granddaddy, declaring “If I’d listened to my husband, I’d be dead…”  

She then told this story: One time many years ago, she smelled gas. She told Brooken who said “You can’t smell gas. It’s odorless.” “Well, I smell it!” she insisted. In the end Granddaddy called the gas company, they fixed the gas leak, and crisis was averted. Sometimes, there’s a fine line between persistence and belligerence. Occasionally, belligerence is justified.

When she wasn’t traveling, Granny could be found watching television or reading. She would watch just about any sport on TV. College football was a particular favorite, though she also watched plenty of basketball, tennis, the Olympics. When the Olympic Games came to Atlanta in 1996, she was there in person.

Some people travel or read or watch movies because they enjoy the journey, whether from one place to another or through a good story. Did Granny enjoy the journey? Hard to say, but having ridden in the car with her plenty of times, both when she was driving and when she wasn’t, I’m going to say no.

Whereas for Granddaddy the journey was the story, for Granny, I think it was more about the destination. Or perhaps, more accurately, the sum total of all the destinations: visiting all 50 states, watching all 100 top movies, reading so many books… Granny collected these experiences like some people collect stamps or rocks or Beanie Babies (and based on some of her papers, she may have collected those too).

The day I was born, there was a bad storm in Tuscaloosa. In 2011, another bad storm struck. This one included a mile-wide tornado that devastated Tuscaloosa, coming within yards of Granny’s house. Inside, alone in her house, Granny waited out the storm.

Granny and her house survived, though the neighborhood is still recovering. During her nearly five decades in that house, neighbors came and went. The community transformed from all white to predominantly black. But Granny stayed put in a house largely unchanged since my childhood.

Television sets cycled through. Occasionally there was a new recliner. Eventually Aunt Gale’s vanity made way for a computer desk where Granny could research family history or send a to-the-point birthday email: invariably “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” in all caps. (Granny was pretty tech-savvy for a nonagenarian, but verbose she was not.)

Granny’s house didn’t change, but she did, at least a little. She softened somewhat, especially with her great-grandchildren. Never a hugger, she would ask young Bennett and Zella “Aren’t you going to hug my neck?” She glowed as she showed off photos of Joseph. One time the perennial birthday email arrived with “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” in hot pink.

Granny was a survivor and fiercely independent, taking care of herself until nearly the end. She endured trauma and loss in her childhood, chronic pain and discomfort in her later years. And she endures in my memory, standing sentinel in her driveway in Tuscaloosa, watching us depart after our visit in July, just as she had done for my entire life.

Goodbye, Granny. I will miss you.

Eulogy for an Uncle

By Melanie Marsden:

The first thing that comes to mind when I think of Uncle Jimmy is family. My earliest memories I have of him are sitting around my grandmother’s kitchen table or watching from the Eden Street park as he, Carol and the boys would visit Carol’s mom. Jimmy was a devoted husband and loving father. He was not only a great son he was a great son in-law. He was a caring brother, cousin, uncle, friend and papa. His family was his world. He loved his wife Carol, his sons Jamie and Jeff and his daughter-in-law Eveline but it would be Jonathan who would make Jimmy One Happy Papa. Jonathan lit up Jimmy’s world. He loved that little guy so much-he beamed with pride and if you are lucky enough to have met Jonathan you know why.  

I’ll never forget how Jimmy was there for me when my dad Zeke died. From my high school graduation to getting my wisdom teeth out he was always there when it mattered. When I was away at Eastover, he went up to Woodbrook regularly with Carol and the boys to check in on Peachie and help out. If it weren’t for his help, I am not sure if our summer camp would still be in our family.  

When his sister Betty died, the hospice nurse said to Mimi “oh you’re an only child — how sad.” And Uncle Jimmy wrapped his arm around Mimi’s shoulder and pulled her in close and said — “she has all of us.”  

Jimmy was a quiet, gentle force. He was always looking out for other people. He was always happy to see you. He lit up a room when he walked into it. When he asked how you were — he really listened and cared to know. I don’t think I ever heard him say a bad word about anyone. While he was a man of few words in a crowd, when he did speak, it usually ended up with everyone busting up laughing. Jimmy Connors was a very funny guy.  

Jimmy loved to cook for people. When he visited Woodbrook you could count on him to be serving up a mean breakfast. He didn’t stop there though, he was always stepping it up on the grill making something fancy. He couldn’t stop, he just liked to take care of others. He regularly attended the annual “Manly Man Weekends” in New Hampshire. Every year awards were given out on Saturday night. Though no women are allowed at the Manly Man Weekends, I’m told many of the awards were mocking and sarcastic in nature. As I understand it, one year when Jimmy was given an award, he thanked the group, polished it with pride then, always being a jokester, casually proceeded to drop it in the trash.  

Jimmy was a wealth of knowledge when it came to Charlestown and family history. Whenever I needed to know something I always knew where to find him. I would stroll down to the old bank-building coffee shop and there he would be hanging out with friends where he would always take the time to visit and provide me with fascinating facts. About a month ago I called Carol and Jimmy and said, “If you need anything, let me know”. Jimmy replied, “TELL HER IF SHE NEEDS ANYTHING, TO LET ME KNOW”. That’s just how Jimmy was. On Friday when Jimmy passed away, I was out on the porch with Jonathan. The sun had just broken out after days of rain. Jonathan looked at me, pointed to the sky and asked, “Is Papa up there now?” I said, “Papa’s in Heaven but he will always be your Papa.” And a great Papa he was.  

Yeah, Jimmy Connors was a man you don’t meet every day. He was the epitome of a stand up guy and while I am sad because he has left us physically, Jimmy will live on in all of us through our memories, stories and how he affected our lives. I love you Uncle Jimmy and I am REALLY going to miss you. We all are. And don’t worry about Carol, Jamie, Jeff, Eveline or Jonathan — They have all of us. 

Eulogy for a Child

Ask anyone who knows me — I am someone who is rarely at a loss for words — but when Trux and Lauren asked me to speak about Gage, I wasn’t sure I would be able to find the right ones.     Gage Dole was larger than life, and far bigger than words.     An old soul..he was wise — well beyond his years. He came here to teach us and I learned so much from him…     I wasn’t and I’m still not sure I can do my amazing friend justice with simple words…In the end, all I can do is try my best to tell you about Gage as we knew him. How we met him, and how he touched my life…….forever.     Just in case any of you don’t know what craigslist is, it’s an online classified that has made traditional newspaper classifieds virtually obsolete. Craigslist is popular for a lot of things…Some people find used furniture, electronics, or jobs on Craigslist. Other’s find a roommate, a relationship or even a used car…     My family — The Marsdens — we found Gage.     Well sort of. It was Trux actually. While scanning the barter section I noticed his post looking for temporary housing in Boston — of course I wanted to help.     Strangely enough, my dad Zeke died of cancer 20 years ago this weekend. I was 17 at the time, and while it was terribly hard on my family, I can’t even begin to imagine how much harder that time in our life would have been if we had to pack up and move clear across the country to get my dad the treatment he needed. Dealing with cancer is hard enough, but having to do it away in a strange place seemed more of a burden than I could fathom.     While that was a very dark time in our lives — it was also one of the most beautiful. The whole community came out and supported us in any way they could. I didn’t want to imagine how my family would have gotten through such a tough time in our lives without the support of our family, friends, and neighbors. For years I’d wondered how I was going to even begin to repay all of the people who had reached out to my family when my father was sick. And on that day when I saw Trux’s Craigslist posting — I felt like this was meant to be. It was our turn to pay it forward.     If Lauren, Trux and Gage had to leave their home behind to get the treatment that Gage needed, the least we could do was help them with a place to stay and hopefully make them feel a little more comfortable in this very difficult time.     And just like that, within a few short weeks — strangers from opposite ends of the country became housemates, and not long after that, family.     Gage was just 4 when he and his parents came to live with us in Charlestown. My brother Michael, my mom Peachie, Lauren, Trux, Gage and myself all lived together under one roof for 3 months while Gage received Proton Radiation Treatment at Mass General. While it was a short amount of time in the grand scheme of things, those three months had a profound effect on me.     Growing up — no matter where our days took us as kids out exploring — 5:00 o’clock meant time to head back home for Supper. And Supper time in the Marsden house was called “Quality Time.” Quality time meant no phones, no television, no video games — just a family around the table — sharing a meal, taking turns talking about our day. But when my father died — the pain was so great and the grief so heavy that sitting around that table didn’t bring the comfort or joy it once had in our lives. It was a constant almost unbearable reminder that someone was missing; the glue that held our family together was gone.     I hadn’t taken much time to think about how tough having a child with cancer coming into our house might be. No, in retrospect I hadn’t given it much thought at all. There are so many problems in the world that we can’t fix — but here was one — staring me in the face that we could help with. The Doles needed a place to stay. We had a couple of spare rooms. Before they moved in my brother asked me “are they bringing this boy here to die?” I’m sure he was thinking that maybe we couldn’t handle that — After all we still hadn’t fully recovered from losing my dad.     I told Michael that they were bringing him here to fight. And that we had no control over what the outcome would be but we could make sure that his memories of Boston were more than of Hospital stays and medical treatments. I honestly thought we could live in the same house with them and keep a healthy distance emotionally — boy was I wrong. When they arrived — you couldn’t help but fall in love with the whole family — especially Gage.     While our intention all along had been to help Gage and his family — in the end, it was Gage that helped us. When you lose someone close — you’re afraid to feel that hurt again. You’re afraid to love and let people in. But you couldn’t keep Gage at a distance. It was impossible. He was so full of love that it spilled out of him and wrapped around you and you just had no choice. Like the story of the little brave soul who came into the world to unlock love — Gage brought love and joy and laughter back into our home. And I have no doubt that when Gage volunteered to be a brave little soul, my dad Zeke pulled him aside and said “hey Pal — while you’re down there — can you do me a favor and stop by 38 Mystic Street. They really need a dose of LOVE.”     Here was this 4 year old boy with strength and courage that most people who live very long lives never possess. But Gage never so much as complained or let the battle he was facing — slow him down or weaken his spirit. Gage loved life. Here he was a sick child….     BUT I’D NEVER MET ANYONE MORE ALIVE!!!     He’d run around the house in his super hero pajamas. Cracking jokes, telling stories, and bringing joy wherever he went. In our time together he helped clarify what was truly important in life. He brought us back to a time when everything made sense. A time before the rug was pulled out from under us. A time before we lost my dad. He brought us back to the kitchen table as a family. He helped us to love again. And if he could face life without fear — we had no choice but to follow his lead.     We were blessed to have him with us for Halloween and Christmas that year. He completely lit up our house. You should have seen Trux, Lauren, Peachie, Michael and Myself following batman all around town while he collected his loot. I’m not sure who had more fun — us or him..? And Christmas that year was better than any I’d remembered — We put on the Chipmunks Christmas Album, We decorated the tree together. Michael put Christmas bulbs up his nose and he and Gage got a kick out of it. That was the Christmas of the Blue Power Ranger Gun and a visit to meet Santa in the Berkshires.     My father used to say, “We’re all going to die. And once we accept that — we really start to live.” And boy did Gage live.     Knowing Gage and loving Gage has made me a better person. When his family lived with us they brought a joy back to our home that had been missing for years. People would hear about the story and say “how sad.” And we’d reply — spend 2 minutes with Gage and sad would be the furthest thing from your mind.     During that time, I learned so much about Power Rangers and Pirates and Pretty Girls. He could spot a pretty girl from a mile away. And you could tell the ones he really liked because those are the ones he’d show his scar too. Or whatever temporary tattoo he happened to be sporting that week. One of my favorite memories of Gage was when we went to visit him before the Bone Marrow Treatment. The last thing he said to Michael as we were leaving was — “Hey Michael, don’t ever let them make you wash those off,” referring to Michael’s very real tattoos — which Gage must have assumed were the wash off type. He probably was trying to figure out how Michael managed to avoid soap and water all those years.     Some of my family’s favorite memories of Gage were: 

Peachie reading stories to Gage. 

Gage belly laughing while we watched Mahna Mahna over and over again.     Watching Veggie Tales and singing silly songs.     Gage’s love of Pizzeria Regina Pizza with Black Olives.     Michael’s thumb magic trick — which Gage would ask to see over and over again.     At dinner time Trux would say, “Gage stop beating up Michael and eat your Food”.     Gage telling Michael “No Toys at the Table.” When Michael was using his cell phone.     The no playing until we eat rule and how Gage and Michael found a way around the no toys at the table rule by using neckties as headbands and playing Commando — Since technically, they argued, neck ties are not a toy — they are apparel and Trux and Lauren agreed wholeheartedly.    Hearing “One two three four I declare a Thumb War.” Every time Gage and Michael Thumb Wrestled.     Gage asking Michael if he could be his “pretend little brother”.     The snowball fight in the hospital     And on and on… 

Michael was 27. Gage 4. But neither of them acted their age…     Gage, no doubt because of his condition, was blessed with this amazing Spirit which helped him, and in turn all of us, not only get through some tough times, but have a lot of fun along the way. Gage came here to teach us. He came to this world knowing the importance of family, friends, laughter and love. Of kindness and courage and strength. And he lives on in us.     I’d like to close with a quote that hangs on our wall that was given to us by Gage’s family: 

If you’ve had a kindness done you — pass it on.   It was not meant for you alone — pass it on.   May it linger through the years — may it dry another’s tears   Till in Heaven it appears — pass it on. 

May we all go forward with strength and courage as Gage did.  

Pass it on. 

Jessica Campbell

Writer, editor, and senior content strategist, at Legacy since 2005. Her feature stories include "The Long, Loud History of Sports and Politics (in 66 Pictures)," "How Women Dressed 100 Years Ago," and "The First Brave Woman to Allege Sexual Harassment."

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How to Write a Eulogy and Speak Like a Pro

If you have been asked to write and give a loved one’s eulogy—a speech honouring their life—at a funeral or memorial service, you probably have mixed emotions about it.   

While part of you is honoured by the request, another part of you is nervous or overwhelmed with how to accomplish the task.   

All of these emotions are perfectly normal, especially if you aren’t an experienced writer or public speaker.  But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

The first step is to consider whether it might be a good idea to hire an  hire an affordable and professional eulogy writer – it’s more affordable than you think!

If you are keen to try writing the eulogy on your own, we also cover:

• Writing a Eulogy Yourself? Let’s Start With the Basics…

How to Write a Eulogy in 6 Easy Steps

Infographic on how to write a eulogy, how to properly practice a eulogy.

• How to Speak Confidently
• Video Interview with Renowned Public Speaking Coach, Jay Miller

Summary of Our Eulogy Tips

How to Hire an Affordable and Professional Eulogy Writer (if Writing Feels Too Hard)

Does writing a eulogy just feel too hard?  You are not alone!  Many people feel exactly the same as you do.

Between the grief, the time it takes to plan for a funeral, and the fact that most people aren’t eulogy writing experts, writing a eulogy can feel like an overwhelming task.

But not to worry.  There is a solution!

Do yourself a favour and hire eulogy writing expert, Steven Schafer, founder of The Eulogy Writers .

Let him bear the responsibility of crafting a meaningful eulogy!

Not only does he have 30+ years of eulogy writing experience, he truly cares about helping people during this most difficult time.

Here is what a few clients who have used his services had to say:

I want to thank you, Steve, and your staff of writers. I couldn’t have done it without you. You made it possible for me to deliver a speech that everyone enjoyed. Some even cried. I will definitely recommend this website to my friends if they would ever need a eulogy writing service in the future.  ~ Byron C.

  I can’t thank you enough for your help in preparing the eulogy for my Mom. You took my scattered thoughts and memories and composed the most beautifully written eulogy that really captured her essence. I’m so happy I found your website. Many blessings to you.  ~ Edie M.

I am so impressed by how you were able to take all the “stuff” I gave you and write the story. I am sure, doing this as you do for many others, it is impossible to put in all of the memories that flood one’s heart upon the death of a loved one, yet you were able to take the important points and see the whole story. This was done wonderfully well. Thank you very very much. ~ Paula D.

Many people mistakenly assume that hiring a professional eulogy writer like Steven is unaffordable.

They’re surprised (but delighted!) to learn that it’s ONLY $278 for a beautiful and highly-personalized eulogy .

Not only it this half the price of other eulogy writing companies you’ll find on the web, there are no extra fees and no hidden charges .

For example, unlike other eulogy writers, Steven does not charge extra for revisions or for getting the work done within 24 hours.

To quote Carl H., another satisfied client: “Amazing! An awesome eulogy — and done by the next day!  I’d have gladly paid twice what you charge.”

You won’t find a better eulogy writer or a more lovely human being than Steven Schafer.

If you are ready to offload the overwhelming task of writing a eulogy, you can contact him a number of different ways:

• E-mail [email protected]
• Phone (734) 846-3072.  (Don’t forget to add the country code for the USA to the beginning of the phone number if you are calling from another country.)
• Contact form on his website

If you are having a virtual funeral service, maybe because your family is scattered geographically, it is still a great idea to have a eulogy professionally written by Steven because a eulogy is a centre-point of any funeral service, including a virtual funeral service.

Steven is now accepting new clients in the USA and from overseas, so contact him today!  You’ll be so glad that you did.

Writing a Eulogy Yourself?  Let’s Start With the Basics…

If you’ve never attended a funeral, or are not particularly knowledgeable about eulogies, here are the basics.

How Long Should a Eulogy Be?

A good length for a eulogy is 3 to 5 minutes (10 minutes max). With a longer speech you risk loosing your audience’s attention. Instead, focus on making a couple of key points about the person that passed away and what they meant to you.

How to Write a Eulogy?

Find biographical information about the deceased (e.g. important dates and places). Ask family and friends about special memories. Draft a eulogy that presents events in chronological order. Include stories that illuminate the character of the deceased. End the eulogy with what he/she meant to you. Finally, say goodbye.

Can You Give Me an Example of a Eulogy?

No problem.  Here’s a short eulogy example to inspire you to get started with writing a eulogy today:

“Good afternoon, everyone.  We are gathered here today to celebrate the life of Maria Elizabeth Rickley.  For anyone who doesn’t know me, my name is Hannah Rickley and Maria was my grandmother, or Nona as we all called her.

My Nona was an incredible woman.  She was adored by her husband, Paul, as well as her three children and six grandchildren.  Her hard work, her caring nature, her humour and her love of life are some of the many traits that characterized this amazing and loving person.

My Nona was born on July 19, 1935 on a small farm in Caserta, Italy.  Her childhood can be best described as humble, but full of adventure.  Working with her family on their family farm in Italy, Maria learned how to sheer sheep, milk cows, and the secret recipe of the Depetrillo tomato sauce that has been in our family for generations – and is better than any restaurant or family recipe I have ever tasted.  She enjoyed walking the fields with her mother, Liza, moving the cattle from pasture to pasture, and sharing stories – stories that my Nona would later tell me while I sat cuddling in her lap.

When she was 14 years old, my Nona, her little brother, Ricco, and her parents, Liza and Antonio, moved from their small farm town in Italy to Canada.  Her family made a home in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, where she attended Korah High School.  In her third year at Korah High, my Nona met Jonathan Rickley.  She was a cheerleader for the high school football team and he was a running back. 

Make a Social Media Obituary in Honor of Your Special Loved One

The two met after my Jonathan caught the winning touchdown in their championship game. My grandfather says to this day that she was the most beautiful woman he has ever laid eyes on and that it was love at first sight.  The two high school sweethearts married four years later after their fateful meeting.

After Maria graduated from teacher’s college, she began teaching the third grade at St. Joseph’s Elementary School.  Before long, Maria and Jonathan gave birth to their first child, Sarah.  In short succession, Maria and Jonathan had two more children: Daniel and Anthony.  Maria continued to teach at St. Joseph’s until her retirement at the age of 60, at which time she received a lifetime achievement award from the school board, which she proudly hung in the kitchen.

My Nona was the definition of “young at heart”.  Nothing gave her more joy than a good joke or a funny prank.  I remember one sleepover I had at my Nona’s.  It was April Fool’s Day and I woke up and walked out of my bedroom and saw that all of the photos hanging on the walls of the house were turned upside-down and all of the cupboards and drawers were open.  I burst into laughter as she came out of the kitchen acting like this sight was completely normal.  Nothing put a smile on her face like seeing her grandkids laugh.

My Nona was not only funny, she was exceptionally bright.  She was always seen doing a crossword or Sudoku puzzle.  If I ever needed help with my homework, she always knew the answers.  However, she never just gave me the answers.  Instead, she helped me to find the answers myself.   She had a special way of bringing out the best in people and making them believe in themselves.

I love my Nona very much and will miss her dearly.  Her life touched so many people and I will continue to live my life the way that she taught me to, to work hard, to be kind to others, and to not take myself too seriously.  Her humour, kindness and selflessness will continue to inspire those who were lucky enough to know her and be loved by her.  Rest in peace, my sweet Nona.”

If you are looking for more eulogy examples, please see our companion post you will find 30+ beautiful examples of eulogies that you can use today.

How to Give a Eulogy?

Practice your eulogy often beforehand. Time how long it is (shouldn’t be longer than 10 mins). Get feedback from someone you trust. At the funeral, do vocal cord warm-up exercises and deep breathing. Speak slowly, don’t rush. Make eye contact with the congregation. Be yourself.

Writing a eulogy can feel very overwhelming, which is why we’ve created this easy-to-follow step-by-step guide to get you started.

1. Brainstorm Ideas for the Eulogy

Before you start writing a eulogy, brainstorm ideas for points to include in your speech and get organized.

Gather Material and Stories that You Might be Able to Use in the Eulogy

Gather biographical information about the deceased.  (For example: date and place of birth; name of relatives; date of marriage; career achievements; etc.)

Speak with family members and friends that knew the deceased well for stories or insights about the deceased.  They will be happy to be included in the process.

All the various stories that you hear might help you create a central theme in the eulogy (for example, the deceased’s constant kindness).

Organize Your Ideas

The eulogy should have a logical flow to it.

Organize the information and stories you gathered using the order outlined in the eulogy template below.

Write a checklist of all the points you wish to make within each section of the eulogy template.

Consider How Much Humour is Appropriate to Use in the Eulogy

RELATED: 27+ Eulogy Examples to Inspire Your Eulogy & Help You Get Started

Decide on how serious or high-spirited you want the eulogy to be.

If done tastefully, adding a bit of humour to a eulogy can help convey the personality of the deceased.

You should note, however, that the amount of humour that is appropriate ultimately depend on the circumstances surrounding the death of the deceased.

If a child met an untimely death, the eulogy should take on a more serious tone than if you are giving a eulogy about a grandparent or parent who lived a long and happy life.

Review Examples of Eulogies

Reading eulogy examples may inspire you when writing the eulogy for your loved one.  You might find lines and phrases that resonate with you and that you can borrow.

Eulogy examples is also useful in helping you understand how the information that you present should flow.

2. Write the Eulogy’s Introduction

 Use this template for writing the 1st paragraph of the eulogy.

In the opening statement, a cknowledge why everybody is gathered— i.e. to celebrate the life of the deceased and to say goodbye.

For example:

• “We are here today to celebrate the life of John Doe, and to say goodbye to a wonderful man.” OR
• “We are gathered here today to remember the life of John Doe, and celebrate what he meant to us all.”

In the next line, introduce yourself and explain your relationship to the deceased.    

• “For those of you whom I haven’t yet had the pleasure of meeting, I am Paul Doe, the youngest brother of John.” OR
• “For anybody that doesn’t know me, my name is Todd Smith.    I was John’s best friend for over thirty years.”

Next, thank the funeral guests for attending the service.     You might make a special mention of anybody who travelled from far away.   

• “I would like to thank you all for coming here today to mourn the loss of John with me and his family.” OR
• “I would like to thank you all for coming here today to mourn the loss of John, with special thanks to the Glenn family who travelled all the way from their home in New Zealand.”

3. Write a Short Biography of the Deceased’s Life

For paragraphs 2 to 5 of the eulogy, give the funeral guests a short overview about the deceased’s life by using this template:

First discuss  when and where the deceased was born, who was in his or her birth family, significant family events, and any other interesting family details.  

• “John was born on December 12, 1952, in the small town of Smithville, Idaho.    His parents, Wilma and Fred Smith, settled in the town in 1939 and were corn farmers.    John was the oldest of five boys, Fred, Lincoln, Garry and Paul.    The family suffered a devastating loss in 1960 when Lincoln died from polio.”
• “Jane was born in Auckland, New Zealand, on June 12, 1972.  She was the youngest of three children.  Her older sisters, Mary and Ann, travelled from New Zealand to be with us here today.  Their parents, Mike and Hannah, moved to New Zealand in 1962 when Mike was offered a promotion with the electrical company.”

Next, m ention other birth family members that the deceased was particularly close to, and any special memories.    

• “John was especially close to his grandfather, Brian Doe.    He always spoke fondly of all the weekends they would spend fishing together on the Chelsea river.    His grandfather also bought him his first car, a red Chevy, which he proudly drove around town, until the night when he and his three buddies crashed it into a tree.    His grandfather’s only comment was:    “Better the tree go than your skull.”
• “Jane was especially close to her cousin, Ashley, as they were the same age and virtually next door neighbours.  They spent many happy hours in their tree house and riding their horse, Marigold.”

Next, if the deceased was married at the time of his or her death, talk about his or her spouse.    Also mention any children and grandchildren.    

• “John first met Linda at university in 1969 where they were both enrolled in the teaching program.     I had the privilege of being a groomsman at their wedding a year later.    John always said that marrying Linda was the best decision he ever made.    Together, they had three beautiful children, Rowen, Alexis and Holly.”
• “Jane was happily married to Graeme for 10 years.  They were thrilled to welcome twin girls Sally and Jessica four years ago.  Jane’s death has left a huge void in all of their lives, and they miss her very much.”

4. Include  Special Memories, Stories, and Qualities of the Deceased in the Eulogy

For paragraphs 6 to 9 of the eulogy, share special memories and stories about the deceased.  Use this template to cover these topics:

After you have covered biographical information about the deceased is the time to delve into   any special memories or stories.

You can use some humour here, if you wish.  But be careful to use humour that is appropriate for the occasion and that others will find tasteful.

• “My dad would always volunteer to be the coach for our football team.  We loved going camping and fishing with him on the weekends, though we spent more time joking around than actually catching any fish.  Family was the most important thing to my dad.  He would always say, “Family will always be there to watch your back, so be nice to your brothers!”
• “My sister Jane was a huge animal lover.  She had many pets and volunteered her time at the local animal shelter.  We would always joke that she can never wear black without being covered by cat hair.”
• “My favourite memory of James is the time we took a road trip across the country together.  Our goal was to get across the country within one week.  However, the trip ended up taking two weeks because John had brought with him an out-of-date map, and we ended up taking the longest route possible.  Or, as James liked to put it, the “scenic” route.  James was always a positive person and found the best in every situation.”

Next, talk about the deceased’s life achievements, talents, hobbies and passions.

• “Mary was a pediatric doctor for over 30 years.  She was a wonderful mentor for many students, many of whom I see sitting in the congregation today.  Many people don’t know that Mary would volunteer her time and energy working with inner city kids on weekends.  Mary was generous and selfless, which was reflected in all that she did.”
• “Steve owned his own mechanic’s business for over 20 years with loyal customers.  He was known as a trust-worthy business man and a fair boss.  When he wasn’t at the shop, he liked to fix classic cars and show them off at car shows.”

Finally, d iscuss the special qualities of the deceased— e.g. kind, funny, smart, selfless, generous, out-going.

• “Anyone who knew Sandra knew that she never took life too seriously.    She was always pulling pranks and cracking jokes.    April Fool’s Day was her favourite day of the year.    I will never forget the time that Sandra flipped all the photos hanging in my house upside-down – every single one!    Months later we were still finding random photos that were still hanging upside-down.”
• “Andrea had the kindest heart.  She could never walk past a homeless person on the street without given the person a couple of dollars and a few words of encouragement.  Her friends and family would turn to her in times of trouble because she knew how to make you feel supported.”

The best eulogies tell lots of stories as stories are the way that we remember loved ones and keep their memories alive even after they are gone.

Audiences connect with stories more than facts and figures. Stories will help the congregation relate to the person being honoured and gives them greater insight into the kind of person they were.

RELATED: 17+ Funny Obituary Examples With Appropriate Humour

Use stories that everybody can appreciate, rather than stories than involve some type of inside joke between a few people, or a “you had to be there” kind of story.

When preparing your eulogy, you should talk to family members and friends about their special memories of the deceased.  They may also have some interesting or funny stories that you could use in the eulogy.

Even if you can’t use all of the suggestions from family and friends, (as a eulogy should be 10 minutes at most), sharing stories helps the grieving process.

It is okay to use some gentle humour in your eulogy .  Funny anecdotes can offer insight into the character of the person that passed away, and help the audience reflect on the good times.

However, it is critical that you choose the right anecdotes.  We cannot stress this point enough!  As a general rule of thumb, do not attempt to be funny about:

• The situation:   For example:  “The only time we get to see you folks is when another old timer in our family has died.”  Trust us, nobody is going to find this remark funny, only uncomfortable.
• Aspects of the deceased’s life that he/she was embarrassed about or that aren’t flattering:  For example:  “We had to get a bigger hall for this funeral service because we couldn’t fit in all of Tammy’s ex-husbands.”  It’s not a great idea to poke fun at the deceased.
• How the person died:   In case this one isn’t obvious to you, it’s a terrible idea to mention how the person died at all your eulogy, let alone make light of it.  Any mention of the manner of death is likely to send an already emotional situation into overdrive.

For any funny anecdotes you plan to use, it would be wise to run them pass a couple of trusted family members or friends first.

You want to check, and double check, that your stories don’t cause shame or distress for your loved ones.

It would be a shame to ruin the whole eulogy with one, ill-conceived story that went too far.

5. Close the Eulogy With Words of Comfort and a Final Goodbye

For paragraph 10 of the eulogy—the final paragraph—give the congregation some words of comfort to dwell on using template.

Talk about the lessons that the deceased taught you and how he or she impacted your life.     

• “Emily taught me to work hard, be kind to others, and never take life too seriously.    Her humour, selflessness and kindness will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.”
• “Greg taught me that a loyal friend is worth more than anything in the world.  He was always there for us, not matter what. We were all so lucky to have such a great guy in our corner.”

Then close your eulogy by saying goodbye to the deceased.   

You could address your comments either to the audience, or to the deceased.   

• “We all loved Mary very much and will miss her dearly.    She touched so many lives.     Because of Mary, I will live my life the way that she taught me to, to work hard, to be kind to others, and to not take myself too seriously.    Her humour, kindness and selflessness will continue to forever inspire those of us who were lucky enough to know her.”    OR
• “Goodbye, dear sweet Mary.    We all loved you very much and will miss you tremendously.    You touched so many lives.     Because of you, I will live my life the way that you taught me to, to work hard, to be kind to others, and and to not take myself too seriously.    Your humour, kindness and selflessness will continue to inspire us forever.    Rest in peace, darling Mary.”

6. Proofread the Eulogy

You need to proofread your eulogy a couple of times to ensure that all the information is correct and that it strikes the right tone.

It would be best to have a trusted family member or friend check it for you also to ensure that the facts are correct, that your humour is not too much, and that it is well written.

We know that this is a lot of information to remember so we’ve created a super easy to follow infographic summarizing the key points for each step of writing a heartfelt eulogy for your loved one.

(Click Infographic to enlarge)

Like our infographic? Use it on your site by copying this embed code:

If you found this infographic helpful, feel free to share it on Pinterest and check out our Infographics Board .

Here are 3 super-practical tips for how to practice your funeral speech before the big day so that you can walk up to the rostrum with confidence.

1. Read the Eulogy Aloud as Many Times as Possible

You will most likely have butterflies in your stomach when it’s your turn to stand up and deliver the eulogy.    This is only natural.   

But you will feel more confident once you’re up there if you had practiced your speech many times beforehand.

You are likely to be very emotional while you are speaking.    The loss is so fresh, and the memories so powerful.    Under such circumstances, it is easy to lose track of your thoughts.

Practicing your eulogy several times beforehand will help you remember the general points you wanted to make, even if you forget the exact order you wanted to make them in or a specific joke you wanted to tell.

Rehearsing your eulogy over and over is a highly effective public speaking tip.     Repetition will help you memorize your speech, which will really help you when the nerves on the day set in.

You should have some notes to fall back on in case your mind goes momentarily blank.   

Keep in mind, though, that your eulogy will come across as more genuine and heartfelt if you are not reading it word-for-word off a piece of paper.

Reading the eulogy out loud to yourself in the days leading up to the service will help you recognize which parts are likely to make you emotional.    Being forewarned might make it easier to get through those parts on the day.

Reading the eulogy aloud is also an effective way to improve the flow of your speech.    Words sound differently when read aloud than when you are reading them.    Through this process you will be able to improve your eulogy.

2.    Read Your Eulogy Aloud to a Family Member

In addition to reading the eulogy aloud to yourself, in order to work out the kinks and to memorize it, you should also read it aloud to a trusted family member or friend in order to get constructive feedback.

Everything might sound great to you, but others might find that one of your jokes is a little inappropriate or that your wording is a little awkward or confusing.   

It can be really helpful to get a second opinion from someone whose feedback you value.    This will only make your eulogy better.

Lastly, family members and friends might also be able to give you ideas or stories that you could incorporate into your eulogy.    As the old saying goes: “Many hands make light work.”

3.    Time Your Eulogy

Once you have a final draft of your eulogy, it is important to time how long it takes to say out loud.     A good length for a eulogy is 3 to 5 minutes (10 minutes maximum).

You might feel as if 10 minutes is not enough to talk about all the things you want to. With a longer speech you run the risk of loosing your audience’s attention.

The reality is that you won’t be able to cover everything; there will never be enough time.    You should focus on making a couple of key points in your eulogy instead.

How to Speak Confidently

By the day of the funeral or memorial service you will have practiced, practiced, practiced!

But it’s still natural to have some butterflies when it’s crunch time.  So here are 5 tips to help you give the eulogy like a seasoned public speaker.

1.    Do a Deep Breathing Exercise Before You Speak

One of the most effective public speaking tips there is involves doing a deep breathing exercise before you get up and speak.

For the best result, breathe in slowly through your nose (for about 4 seconds), hold the breath for about 7 seconds, then slowly exhale out for (exhaling should take around 8 seconds).     Try and focus solely on your breath, and let go of other thoughts while you do the exercise.

The exercise will definitely help you to steady your nerves and clear your mind.

Once you are at the podium ready to give your eulogy, take a few deep breathes before you start.    (They won’t be as long and deep as the ones you did in the exercise beforehand.)

If at any point during your eulogy you find your nervousness returning, remind yourself that everyone there is there to support you and to join you in celebrating and remembering the life of your loved one.    You are there to speak from the heart, and are not in a public speaking contest.

Another good tip is to ensure that there is a glass of water at the podium.    Having a sip of water will help if your mouth becomes dry during your eulogy, (a common symptom of nervousness).    It will also help if you become overly emotional during your speech.    You can simply take a few sips of water and give yourself a few moments to recover.

2.    Don’t Expect the Eulogy to be Perfect

Remember that you are speaking in front of family members and close friends who are grieving the same loss as you are, so they don’t expect you to be perfect! Everyone will be grateful that you have undertaken the task that many would be unable to face.

Everyone who is there and listening to you speak are there to remember the person who has passed away, not to judge your public speaking skills.    It’s not as if they are keeping a mental score of how well you are doing or how effective your speaking abilities are.

What is the worst that could happen?    You lose track of your train of thought, or you get choked up and need to pause and take a few deep breaths.    No one in attendance is judging you.    This is an incredibly emotional time for everybody, so people will understand if you are struggling to deliver the eulogy.    In fact, they are most likely admiring your strength in doing such a difficult task.

3.    Be Yourself

As we said at the outset, there is a reason that you were chosen to the deliver the eulogy.    You likely had a very close relationship with the deceased.    It is that relationship, and what that relationship meant to you, that should shine through in your eulogy.

Authenticity matters a great deal more than speaking perfectly.    Don’t try to speak to the congregation in a formal public speaking tone.    A good tip is to talk to the audience like you would talk to your friends.    Be yourself and your speech will come across as genuine and heartfelt.

4.    Connect With the Congregation through Eye Contact

In addition to being yourself and using a conversational style of talking during your eulogy, you can connect with the congregation through eye contact.

Eye contact will make everyone in attendance feel as though you are talking to each and everyone of them individually.   

They will connect far more with you and your words if your eyes are scanning the room throughout your eulogy instead of staring down at your notes the whole time.

5.    Don’t Rush

The last of our top 10 effective public speaking tips is to speak slowly.

It is natural when you are nervous to speak faster than normal, in an attempt to get through it as quickly as possible.     Phrases will lose impact because you are rushing.    The audience won’t have the necessary time to absorb and digest your key points.

Slowing down  will make you seem far more poised and confident.    It will also give you time to gather your thoughts, and present your speech in a clear manner.

At the top of any notes you might take to the podium, write yourself a reminder to:

S-L-O-W     D-O-W-N!

Video Interview with Renowned Public Speaking Coach, Jay Miller

Jay Miller is a public speaking expert and a professional voice coach, and is the founder of  Jay Miller Voice & Speech , a company based in Toronto.   

He has additional—and invaluable—practical tips to help you prepare and deliver a wonderful eulogy.

What are the Most Common Mistakes that People Make With a Eulogy and How Can You Avoid Them?

The most common mistake that people make when they are not used to public speaking is that they underprepare and under-rehearse the eulogy.

“So the best thing that someone can do is make sure that you get working on the speech as soon as you find out that you have been selected to deliver a eulogy.   

“Get your notes prepared as quickly as possible and give yourself time to run through the speech, out loud, several times before you have to deliver it,” states Miller.

Another very common mistake is that people over-rely on their notes when delivering the eulogy.    This hinders, rather than helps, their performance.   

Extensive notes are better suited for reading than they are for speaking.    The notes you take to the podium or pulpit should list the main points you wish to make during the eulogy, and not the whole speech, word-for-word.

With your notes, make sure that they are easy to read.    “Make sure you’re using at least 14 point font or larger, and make sure that there is plenty of white space on the page so that the text is not squished together too much,” advises Miller.

The third big mistake people make when giving a eulogy is that they do not take their time when they speak.    “This puts a lot of pressure on yourself, which then creates a lot of anxiety and nervousness,” says Miller.

The final big mistake is that people are too quiet and reserved when delivering the eulogy.    “They are working with a level of voice and a level of energy that is appropriate for private conversation, but is not suitable for public speech,” says Miller.

How Should You Prepare For Delivering a Eulogy?

Make sure you start preparing the eulogy right away.    “Do not wait until the night before to start writing the eulogy because you need time to rehearse,” warns Miller.   

The sooner you get the eulogy ready, and the more time you have to rehearse, the better the eulogy will be.

The best way to practice the eulogy is to stand and deliver the eulogy in the same manner that you will do at the actual funeral or memorial service.   

“Reading over your speech while sitting on your couch does not count as rehearsal,” advises Miller.    “You need to get on your feet and practice going through it out loud.”

Although this seems like a really obvious part of preparation, it is actually quite frequently overlooked. “No car company would introduce a new model of car without extensive testing,” says Miller.   

“The same thing goes with a speech.    Why would you want the first time going through your speech to be in front of the listeners?    You wouldn’t.”

It is important to give yourself as much as possible to rehearse the eulogy beforehand.    Repeated rehearsals will help you identify which parts of the eulogy are easy to get through, and which parts of the eulogy might be more challenging.

You should also time how long it takes you to give the eulogy.    Most people are told the amount of time they have been allotted at the funeral or memorial service to speak.    If you don’t time your eulogy, you won’t have an accurate idea of how long it is.

“What might look like the right amount of time on paper can easily go over,” warns Miller.    When you go the time that was allotted to you for giving the eulogy, it is a sure sign that you have not prepared and have not rehearsed.

“At the risk of sounding too blunt, it is also disrespectful to the family and the organizers if you go over time,” says Miller.   

Therefore, when you are rehearsing the eulogy, make sure you time it.    If the eulogy is too long, make sure you edit it so that it fits within the time that you have been allotted.

What Should You Do Immediately Before Giving a Eulogy?

You should warm up your vocal cords with some breathing and vocal exercises.    (YouTube has plenty of vocal warm up exercises that you can follow.)

You should also arrive early at the place where you are going to be delivering the eulogy so that you can familiarize yourself with the room and the podium or pulpit.   

In fact, you should stand behind the podium or pulpit so that you can have a preview of what the room will look like from that perspective.

Miller also suggests that you check that there is adequate lighting at the podium or pulpit.   

“One time, I remember I was giving a speech where I rehearsed during the day, but the event was at night and the light was so dim that I might as well have had a candle as my only source of light to refer to my notes,” recalls Miller.   

“You don’t want to get caught in a situation like that.”

You should also test the microphone system beforehand to ensure that it is working properly and to ensure that you are not shocked by the sound of your voice over the sound system.   

Does the position of the microphone need to be adjusted? What is the best way to adjust the microphone at the beginning of the eulogy?

In the minutes leading up to the eulogy, Miller suggests that the best way to calm your nerves it to focus on the task at hand.    Don’t think about how nervous you are.    Think about the words you are going to speak.

How Can You Stay Composed While Giving the Eulogy?

“The person who is most composed is not necessarily the most effective speaker,” states Miller.   

This is especially the case during a eulogy where one might expect to see some feeling.    If there are some tears, or if your voice quivers, no one is going to fault you.    Emotion is to be expected.

However, you don’t want to be so overwhelmed by your emotions that you are unable to give the eulogy.    Again, rehearsing the eulogy is key.

Miller advises:    “It is in your rehearsal that you start to process the feelings that are attached to what you are going to say.”   

“It’s not just about making things sound good or getting everything in the right order, because it’s in the rehearsal that you give yourself permission to feel the sadness, the loss, to feel the bittersweet moments you might be talking about, or the gratitude and humour.”  

“Give yourself permission to feel those emotions every time that you rehearse so that that when you get up in front of your audience, you’ve already been through it.”

A technique you can use when you are giving the eulogy to keep your emotions in check is to be aware of the connection between your feet and the ground underneath.   

“When you are aware of having both feet planted on the ground, it tends to keep you in your body and in the room, present and not off somewhere with your feelings,” advises Miller.

One final piece of advice Miller has on this subject is that it is important to understand that emotions may come up, and if they do, just let them flow.   

He states:    “Give those emotions away as you speak.    Do not try to ignore them, control them, or put a lid on them, because I guarantee that your emotions are stronger than you are. Emotion needs to flow.    So imagine it flowing through you and through your voice.”

What if You Lose Your Place or Train of Thought While Giving the Eulogy?

In Miller’s expert opinion, if your notes are too dense, it could result in you loosing your place while delivering the eulogy.   

On the other hand, if you don’t have enough notes, you could loose your train of thought.    (Just like the baby bear in Goldilocks, you need notes that are “just right” in terms of the amount of detail.)

With that being said, if you do happen to loose your place or train of thought, simply pause, take a deep breath, and gather yourself.

“No one is sitting there judging you.    Pauses are actually good to have in a speech.    It gives the audience time to digest what you are saying.    So if you loose your place or train of thought, just pause, regroup, and continue,” advises Miller.

He also advises that you format your notes in a simple way to decrease the risk of loosing your place, as well as make it easier to recover if you do.

Why is Eye Contact With the Audience Important When Giving a Eulogy?

Miller emphasizes the fact that effective public speaking is all about relationships.    It’s about having a conversation and connecting with your listeners.   

Eye contact is one of the most basic things you can do to start establishing a connection with the audience.

“I’m not a fan of advice that says ‘look at the tops of people’s heads,’ or ‘look at the back wall just above the last row,’ because this is not making a connection with your listeners,” he says.   

“Eye contact has to be real.    If you are afraid that making eye contact with certain people might bring up too much feeling for you, there are plenty of other people you can make eye contact with”

Take Heart: A Eulogy is Not About You.    You Don’t Need to Be Perfect!

Miller has two final pieces of expert advice for people preparing a eulogy.

First, remind yourself that a eulogy is not about you.

Miller explains:    “Yes, you are at the front of the room and everyone is watching and listening to you.”   

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However, at the end of the day, it is not about you.    It is about the deceased, the family, the experience of the people gathered there.   

You are there to serve them.    You are there to give a gift.    You have a job to do.   

If you go up to speak expecting that people are going to be judging you and what you are doing, you go into defensive mode.   

If you keep in mind that you have a job to do, to get this message to those people as effectively as you can, you stay in ‘giving mode.’    And this is so much more conducive to giving a great eulogy.”

Second, you don’t need to be perfect.

“You are not aiming for perfection, but for authenticity,” says Miller.    “Let us see who you are.    Be sincere and speak from the heart.    If you do, no one will pay any attention to mistakes you have made.    It’s not about perfection.    It’s about authenticity.”

Well before   the day of the funeral service, you need to:

• Practice your eulogy as much as possible;
• Read it to a trust family member or friend and get some feedback;
• Time how long the eulogy is.  It should be 5 to 10 minutes in length.

Immediately before  you get up to the pulpit to speak, you should:

• Get a glass of water to take with you to the pulpit.
• While you are getting the glass of water, do the deep breathing exercise for 5 minutes.

When you are  at the podium or pulpit , you should:

• Take a couple of deep breaths or a sip water before getting started.
• Speak slowly – don’t rush.
• Speak authentically – be yourself.
• Gaze around the audience – don’t stare down at your notes the whole time.
• Tell stories about the deceased, but avoid stories that would be embarrassing for the deceased or their family.
• Relax – nobody expects you or your eulogy to be perfect.

We’d Love to Hear From You

If you found our post on how to write and give a eulogy helpful, we would appreciate a Facebook Like .

You can also follow our Pinterest board for more eulogy examples and inspiration.

Remember, if writing a eulogy just feels too hard, you can hire a professional eulogy writer like Steven Schafter at The Eulogy Writers .

Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below — we’re always listening.

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A eulogy for my best friend: How to share their story

Losing a best friend is an emotional journey and expressing your feelings through a eulogy can be both therapeutic and a beautiful way to pay tribute to their life from a friend's perspective. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of sharing your best friend's story in a eulogy, offering insights on how to cherish memories, create an impactful opening line and deliver a beautiful eulogy that truly captures their essence.

How do you share memories in a eulogy?

Reflect on shared moments.

Begin by reflecting on the moments that defined your friendship. Consider the laughter, adventures and challenges you faced together. What memories stand out as true representations of your friend's character? Recall stories that showcase their personality and the unique bond you shared.

Speak from the heart

Don't be afraid to show vulnerability in your eulogy. Sharing personal stories - whether they are good or rebellious - and expressing your emotions will make the eulogy more authentic and relatable. Talk about the impact your friend had on your life and the lives of others. Genuine emotion will resonate with the audience and create a lasting impression.

Include contributions from others

Reach out to mutual friends for their cherished friendship memories. Incorporating diverse perspectives will paint a comprehensive picture of your best friend's life. Highlighting their impact on a broader community will make the eulogy more inclusive and meaningful.

Balance humour and emotion

Celebrate your friend's life by infusing the eulogy with a mix of humour and emotion. Share light-hearted anecdotes that bring smiles, balanced with heartfelt stories that evoke deeper emotions. Striking this balance will create a eulogy that truly captures the essence of your friend's personality.  

RELATED ARTICLE: How do you start a eulogy speech?

What is the best opening for a eulogy?

Acknowledge the loss.

Start by acknowledging the pain of the loss. Express your gratitude to the family for the opportunity to speak about your dear friend, setting the tone for a heartfelt tribute. This opening creates a connection with those in attendance, acknowledging the collective grief everyone shares.

Capture their essence

Craft an opening line that encapsulates the spirit of your best friend. Whether it's a quote they loved, a characteristic phrase they often used, or a memory that symbolises their personality - make it a line that instantly resonates with those who knew them well.

Set the tone

Consider the overall tone you want to convey. If your friend has a vibrant and lively personality, start with a cheerful anecdote. If their character was more contemplative, begin with a reflective quote or a thoughtful observation. The opening sets the stage for the entire eulogy, so choose words that mirror their essence.

What makes a beautiful eulogy?

Authenticity.

The most beautiful eulogies come from the heart. Be authentic in your words and emotions. Share your genuine thoughts and feelings and don't be afraid to let your vulnerability shine through. The sincerity of your tribute will resonate with the audience.

Structure and flow

Organise your eulogy in a way that flows naturally. Consider starting with childhood memories, progressing through significant life events and concluding with reflections on the present. A well-structured eulogy helps the audience follow the narrative of your friend's life.

Memorable conclusion

Wrap up your eulogy with a memorable conclusion. Summarise the essence of your friend's life and express gratitude for the time you shared. Conclude with a message that leaves a lasting impression, inspiring the audience to carry forward the legacy of your best friend.  

RELATED ARTICLE: How to share your loved ones eulogy for free with My Tributes

Crafting a eulogy is a poignant task, but it's also an opportunity to celebrate the life of your dear friend. Through shared memories, a thoughtful opening line and a beautiful tribute, you can create a eulogy that honours their story and provides solace to those mourning their loss. Remember, your words have the power to comfort and heal, offering a meaningful farewell to a dearly loved and cherished friend.

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Joe Biden's worst gaffes of all time: From awkward mid-speech moments to bizarre mix-ups

Posted: April 25, 2024 | Last updated: April 25, 2024

Joe Biden's worst gaffes of all time: From snapping at grieving father to forgetting colleague's death

WASHINGTON, DC: At 81, Joe Biden is the oldest sitting US president, four years older than Ronald Reagan. Biden was elected in 2020 and is running for re-election in 2024, but his tenure has been marked by some embarrassing gaffes. In 2022, he acknowledged, “Every once in a while, I make a mistake. Like, well, once a speech.” Despite this admission, Biden’s verbal slip-ups have caused White House officials plenty of headaches. Here are Biden’s nine most baffling gaffes - from contentious interactions with grieving fathers to his seeming ignorance of a congresswoman’s high-profile death.

1. Confusing Mexico with Egypt

During a press conference following the release of the report by Justice Department special counsel Robert Hur on February 8, 2024, Joe Biden took issue with being described as an "elderly man with a poor memory," particularly the claim he couldn't remember the year his son Beau passed away. However, Biden's response was marred by a verbal slip-up in the same press conference, where he appeared to confuse Egypt with Mexico while discussing the Israel-Hamas conflict. “The president of Mexico did not want to open up the gate to allow humanitarian material to get in,” he said. “I talked to him. I convinced to open the gate.”

2. Ground Zero misstep

During a gaffe on September 11, 2023, Joe Biden offended many by commemorating the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in Alaska instead of at a specific site. He further erred by falsely claiming to have visited Ground Zero on September 12, 2001. Addressing US troops in Anchorage, he stated, "Ground Zero in New York — I remember standing there the next day and looking at the building. And I felt like I was looking through the gates of hell." However, his own memoir, which placed him in Washington DC, contradicted this. As a result, White House officials explained that he was referring to a visit he made with a group of senators nine days later.

3. Rail expansion fumble

Known for his love of trains, Joe Biden unveiled ambitious plans for US rail expansion. At a League of Conservation Voters gathering on June 15, 2023, he declared intentions to construct a railroad "from the Pacific all the way across the Indian Ocean." This followed an earlier statement to Rishi Sunak about plans for a transcontinental railroad from the Pacific to the Atlantic, then to the Indian Ocean. However, White House officials later claimed that he referred to initiatives like the Lobito Corridor, aimed at linking countries in Africa to the Indian Ocean.

4. ‘God save the Queen’

That same month, in an unexpected turn during a speech on gun control at the National Safer Communities Summit in Connecticut, President Biden concluded with the declaration, “God save the Queen, man.” This peculiar statement sparked confusion and raised eyebrows, leaving observers questioning whether he was referring to Queen Elizabeth, who died in September 2022, or to Queen Camilla, wife of King Charles, who had recently been crowned in a grand ceremony in London. Neither of the royals was present in Connecticut at the time of Biden's speech. In response to the baffling remark, the White House attempted to clarify, attributing it to Biden merely "commenting to someone in the crowd."

5. Asking for dead congresswoman

On September 28, 2022, during a White House conference, Joe Biden mistakenly asked for Congresswoman Jackie Walorski, who had died in a car accident eight weeks earlier. Despite releasing a statement mourning her death, Biden inquired about her presence. “Representative Jackie — are you here? Where’s Jackie? I think she was going to be here," he asked from the podium. This prompted Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre to defend him by claiming she was "top of mind" for him. Jackie's brother subsequently told the New York Post, “Bless his heart for trying. He’s forgetful. I don’t think anybody would look at the things that he’s done and said and say that his mind is as sharp as it used to be."

6. Snapping at a grieving father

During a White House celebration of a new gun-control law on July 11, 2022, Joe Biden's speech was marred by gaffes. In a particularly striking moment, he shouted at Manuel Oliver, a grieving father who lost his 17-year-old son in the February 14, 2018, massacre at a Florida high school. As Oliver heckled the President for not doing enough to curb gun crime, Biden snapped, “Sit down! You’ll hear what I have to say." Minutes later, Biden made another blunder when he confused the years while describing the tragic attack that claimed Oliver’s child. He stated, “Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida — 1918, 17 dead, 17 injured."

7. Shaking hands with thin air

In April 2022, following a nearly 40-minute speech at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in Greensboro, Joe Biden extended his hand in a handshake gesture toward stage right. However, there was no one else on stage, and no one from the applauding crowd approached the president to reciprocate the gesture, as seen in footage of the event. Earlier, Biden had engaged in real handshakes with attendees, notably with Malcolm Hawkins, an electrical engineering student who introduced him at the beginning of the speech.

8. 'That fella down under'

During a virtual ceremony on September 15, 2021, Joe Biden inadvertently soured the mood of a new defense pact between the UK, Australia, and the US when he failed to recall the name of Australia's then-leader. The ceremony unveiled the AUKUS military initiative, aimed at supplying Australia with nuclear submarines. While addressing the leaders, Biden correctly identified UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, saying, “Thank you, Boris.” However, when it came to acknowledging Australia's Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, Biden stumbled, stating, “And I want to thank, er … that fella down under. Thank you very much, pal. Appreciate it, Mr Prime Minister.” This oversight left many Australians feeling slighted, with one commentator remarking, “Our cultural cringe just tripled."

9. Confusing world leaders with dead predecessors

Joe Biden’s decades of political experience seemed to confuse him as he twice misidentified current world leaders as their predecessors. In a speech at a rally in Las Vegas, he mistakenly referred to French President Emmanuel Macron as Francois Mitterrand, who died in 1996. Biden recounted a G7 meeting in Cornwall in June 2021, stating, “Mitterrand from Germany – I mean, from France – looked at me and said, ‘You know, what... why… how long you back for?” Then, speaking in New York a few days later, Biden claimed to have discussed the Capitol riot with German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, who died in 2017. Angela Merkel was the Chancellor at the time of the riot.

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