Eulogies are a common aspect of memorial services, as they pay tribute to the deceased in a kind and loving way. Being asked to write a eulogy for a loved one is a major honor, but it also comes with quite a few responsibilities. Avoiding common mistakes ensures that the piece has the intended impact on the friends and family of the deceased. Here are a few key points to keep in mind. 

How to Write a Fitting and Respectful Eulogy

1. Don't Make It Too Long

Most eulogies last from two to 10 minutes. Anything beyond that is asking a lot from funeral attendees, who will be experiencing a mix of emotions. To ensure your speech doesn't go over the allotted time, practice it extensively while timing yourself. If you find yourself extending beyond 10 minutes, do a bit more editing until you get it down to a more manageable length. 

2. Be Mindful of What You Include

Most people lead complicated lives, which can make creating their eulogy more challenging. However, the funeral is neither the time nor the place to air grievances. You don't necessarily need to sugarcoat things or make the person sound like a paragon of virtue when that's not exactly true. However, you also don't need to include negative aspects of their life in the interest of honesty. Honor them in a respectful and dignified way while also paying tribute to their best aspects. 

3. Feel Free to Incorporate Humor

Memorial services are typically somber affairs, but that doesn't mean they can't include some levity. If the deceased was a person who enjoyed humor and laughter, there's no reason why you can't include lighter elements in the eulogy. For example, a funny anecdote about the person who died will provide joy to their loved ones and pay tribute to what made them so special. You should still be respectful when incorporating humor, but don't feel the need to make the speech too dour. 

Backed by more than 91 years of experience, DiPonzio Funeral Home Inc. is always happy to pass along helpful tips to grieving families. Based in Rochester, NY, these funeral directors can also help you design a memorial service perfectly suited to the loved one you lost. They even provide funeral pre-planning, which mitigates the burden on your family and ensures you receive the service you prefer. Schedule a consultation today by calling (585) 429-6700, or learn more about their services online.