Being asked to write a eulogy for a memorial service is an honor. It allows you to share your personal memories and feelings about someone you held dear, which can be cathartic for everyone involved in the memorial service. Because it’s such a significant responsibility, here are some tips to help you as you write.

A Guide to Eulogy Writing

1. Focus on Meaningful Memories

Start with a brainstorming session. Think about the memories you’ve shared with your loved one and highlight those that are most meaningful to you. You can also touch on the person’s accomplishments, such as their charitable works or professional achievements. 

2. Keep a Positive Tone

Even if you’ve had a complicated relationship with your loved one, keep your eulogy positive. If you must reference something that isn’t wholly positive, try to use humor to diffuse the tension a bit. Humor can be a great addition to your eulogy, provided it’s used wisely. 

3. Aim for Brevity

The best tributes are about five minutes or less. Anything longer and you risk boring your audience, which prevents them from absorbing the meaning of your words. You may need to do some editing to get your eulogy down to an acceptable level.

4. Seek Help From Friends & Family

You might have difficulty coming up with good ideas on your own. If so, don’t be afraid to ask loved ones for their input. They might be privy to great personal anecdotes you were previously unaware of. 

5. Practice Before the Memorial Service

Public speaking is challenging for most people. Practicing your speech ensures that you know it forward and backward before giving it at a packed memorial service. You can also practice in front of others to boost confidence. 

During a difficult time, working with a compassionate funeral home can ease your fears and anxiety. Serving families in La Crosse, WI, since 1926, Fossum Funeral Home provides kind and respectful services to those in need. Whether arranging a funeral service for a loved one or pre-planning for your service, you’ll work one-on-one with an experienced funeral director for the duration of the planning process. Schedule an appointment today by calling (608) 783-9777. You can also visit the website to learn more about this respected funeral home.