You can contribute to a loved one’s funeral service by giving a eulogy, but this task can be challenging to handle. Aside from navigating through grief while finding the right words to say, you can also feel nervous about speaking in front of a crowd. Fortunately, using the tips below will help you write and deliver a speech that perfectly honors the decedent’s memory.

How to Give a Funeral Eulogy

1. Make It Personal 

A eulogy usually summarizes the deceased’s life, but it should also convey your feelings and experiences with your loved one. Writing a personal speech will make it more heartfelt and relatable to the audience. Take time to recount some of your favorite stories and memories encapsulating the departed’s personality and passions. 

2. Keep It Positive 

Funeral services are emotional events, but your speech doesn’t have to be somber. You can acknowledge the loss while putting a positive spin on the eulogy to help uplift everyone’s spirits. Sharing happy stories and encouraging words will unify the deceased’s loved ones and allow them to concentrate on the good times.

3. Stay Brief 

Generally, a eulogy only lasts a few minutes. Keep this in mind as you start writing your message. A short speech that sticks to the points you wish to get across is more likely to hold the audience’s attention. It will also help the funeral service stay on schedule. 

Ideally, the eulogy should focus on a specific quality about the deceased that you feel is important for others to know. It can also have a brief story that holds significance to who they were. 

4. Practice Your Speech 

Remembering a lost loved one often brings up strong emotional reactions, so practice giving your eulogy several times before the service. This approach will let you get your feelings out so that you’re more prepared to address the audience. Reading it out loud to yourself or someone else also helps you recognize any statements that could sound awkward or inappropriate for the situation.

5. Speak in a Conversational Tone

Public speaking is a big fear for many people. If you get nervous in front of crowds, treat your eulogy as a regular conversation that you would have with close friends and family. Remember to relax and breathe as you normally would, and pay attention to the speed you’re talking. These measures will make it easier for the audience to follow and digest the words you’re sharing.

If you need assistance planning a loved one’s memorial, turn to the compassionate and supportive staff at Robert W. Waid Funeral Home in Meadville, PA. This business has provided high-quality, affordable funeral services to families throughout Crawford County for over a century. They offer various options for final arrangements and will help you put together a meaningful and unique remembrance. Call (814) 724-1021 to schedule a consultation, or visit them online for more information on how they can guide you through this difficult time.