If you've lost a close family member or a beloved friend, you may be called upon to deliver a eulogy at the memorial or funeral service. Many people find this task difficult and feel a great weight of responsibility to write remarks that do their loved one justice. To help you write a successful eulogy, Leo M. Bean And Sons Funeral Home in Rochester, NY, offers some important tips below. By following these suggestions, you'll be able to speak clearly and from the heart to honor the memory of the departed.

Tips for Writing an Effective Eulogy

Limit Eulogy to Five Minutes

Typically, a funeral service or memorial service lasts about a half hour, so keep your eulogy to five minutes or less. The shorter and more concise your remarks, the more effective the emotional impact will be. Therefore, focus on one or two of your loved one's personality traits or recount a few memories you treasure. Don't try to relate their whole life story in one speech.

Make the Eulogy Personal

Your remarks should contain personal memories rather than a recital of facts. Tell a funny story about an event you shared with the departed. You can then use that story as a way to touch on things you'd like to say about your loved one.

Keep Remarks Positive

The word “eulogy" comes from the Greek word "to praise," so keep your remarks positive, upbeat, and uncontroversial. Focus on the departed's strengths rather than their faults. However, if you do address minor faults, do so in a way that is humorous, loving, and sensitive.

Don't Try to Memorize It

When delivering your eulogy, don't try to memorize the speech. Use note cards or keep a written copy with you in case you suddenly draw a blank. Public speaking, especially in a setting like a church or funeral home, can be a high-stress task.

Leo M. Bean And Sons Funeral Home in Rochester, NY, will plan a tasteful and dignified memorial or funeral service to help you celebrate your loved one's life and say your final farewells. Visit their website for directions, or call (585) 426-7830 to speak to their helpful, compassionate staff.