At a funeral, it’s common for a close friend or family member of the deceased to give a eulogy. The memories someone shares will create a sense of closure and help guests cope with their grief. However, those unfamiliar with this type of writing can find it difficult to know where to start. If you’ve been charged with this task, follow the steps below to create a memorable and touching speech.
3 Tips for Writing a Eulogy
1. Introduce Yourself
Unless the funeral is a small gathering, there will likely be people in attendance who have no idea who you are. The unfamiliarity could cause a minor distraction and detract from the moment’s intimacy. Including a brief introduction will establish how you know the deceased and alleviate any confusion.
2. Account for Their Personality
A eulogy honors the deceased by encapsulating who they were as a person. Therefore, consider their character while outlining what you will say. Matching the writing style to their personality will offer comfort to their loved ones.
For a more serious individual, acknowledging their commitment to family and other accomplishments will honor their memory. On the other hand, if the deceased was known for telling jokes, consider opening with a couple of one-liners. This measure can naturally lead to their most memorable moments.
3. Create an Outline
Writing all your ideas down verbatim can help you remember everything you plan to say. However, this can also result in unexpected stops and starts throughout the eulogy if you lose your place while reading. Keep the speech simple by creating an outline with a few bullet points. This measure allows for more flexibility, making it easier to maintain your train of thought. If there are quotes, write them out to avoid accidentally getting them wrong.
Along with delivering a beautiful eulogy, you can hold a touching funeral with help from Frederick Funeral Home in Cincinnati, OH. This family-owned business has assisted clients since 1932 and offers various services, such as organizing traditional burials or modern memorials. They provide a compassionate approach that instantly puts their clients at ease. Call (513) 522-3700 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for additional information on their funeral services.