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When a loved one dies, holding a service allows surviving family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances to gather to say their final goodbyes. As part of your funeral arrangements, you may need to write a eulogy, or a speech that gives tribute to the departed. While it may seem challenging to encapsulate the richness of your loved one’s life and meaning in words, following the advice below will make the process easier. 

How to Write a Meaningful Eulogy

1. Talk With Friends & Relatives About the Departed

Start by reminiscing about your loved one. Jot down any words, memories, or emotions that come to mind. Although funerals are often somber affairs, including funny anecdotes can be touching and appropriate, especially if the departed was known for their sense of humor. If you’re having trouble coming up with ideas, talk to family and friends. Write down their thoughts, and ask them if they’re comfortable contributing them to your speech. 

2. Write an Outline

funeral arrangementsCreating a structure will make it easier to keep information organized and transition from one point to the next. You may find it helpful to follow a simple chronological order, for example, highlighting notable details about the person during each stage of their life. You could also choose to divide it into separate paragraphs grouped by topic, such as personal achievements, career accomplishments, and family life, and share anecdotes for each. 

3. Read What You’ve Written Out Loud

Once you have a draft of the eulogy, read the speech aloud. Doing so will help you polish your piece and will aid with elocution and timing. Practice can also ease any public speaking nerves you may experience. As you make funeral arrangements, try reading what you’ve written in front of a supportive friend or loved one and soliciting their feedback. 

 

Ultimately, don’t fret too much about crafting the perfect address; heartfelt emotions are far more important to creating a touching tribute than eloquent turns of phrase. For help making funeral arrangements from eulogies to interments, contact the professionals at Jacqueline M. Ryan Home for Funerals. Based in Keansburg, NJ, this funeral home has been a fixture in the community for over 70 years. These caring funeral directors help residents throughout Monmouth County create moving funeral and memorial services to honor those they’ve lost. To discuss funeral arrangements, call (732) 787-1177. Visit the funeral home online to learn more about their staff. 

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