Writing and delivering a eulogy during a memorial service can be daunting. In addition to grieving, people must organize their thoughts, talk to others, and prepare to deliver a speech. Here are a few tips to help you create and deliver a meaningful eulogy.

3 Steps to Writing a Eulogy for a Memorial Service

1. The Pre-Write

Start by gathering biographical information about the deceased’s life. Talk to family and friends, gather news clippings and pictures, and jot down personal memories. Create a list of everything found and develop a theme or tone for the service. Define the theme early with a quote, song lyric, of joke. Determine the media that drives the eulogy. The traditional speech is what’s expected, but passing around pictures while giving the speech, or a slideshow are other alternatives.

2. Writing the Eulogy

Organize the list; it can be chronological, genealogical, or whatever suits the tone or theme of the eulogy. Drop in three to four moments throughout the eulogy to keep a focus on the theme. There can also be sub-themes, but the total length of the eulogy is ideally three to five minutes. Ask the memorial service director about the average time for a eulogy.

3. Post-Write

Once it’s written, walk away from it and let it sink in. Come back after a couple of hours later and read it again, making the necessary edits. Have others look at it and give feedback. Practice the speech to see how it sounds spoken out loud. If possible, practice in front of someone to get rid of speech anxiety.

If you have any questions about writing a eulogy or how it fits into the memorial service, contact the compassionate team at Meyer & Geiser Funeral Home in Cincinnati, OH. They will address you and your loved ones with the kindness and support you need during this time of grief. The family-owned business offers over 71 years of combined experience, and the funeral home can assist with everything from funeral planning to arrangements. Visit them online for details, or call them at (513) 921-4144.