Share:

If you’ve recently lost a loved one, you might consider saying a few words during a funeral or memorial service in their honor. Writing a delivering a powerful eulogy can add meaning to a funeral ceremony. Here’s some advice on drafting the right eulogy for your loved one. 

How to Write a Eulogy

1. Share a Personal Story 

Storytelling has the power to connect people and inspire a profound emotional response. Stories also tend to stick in a person’s memory better than other forms of communication, like a simple list of attributes or a straightforward description.

Some researchers hypothesize that storytelling engages a separate portion of the brain, colloquially called the “narrative hub.” If you want to share an emotional experience during the eulogy and make it memorable, try to focus on one or two detailed memories. 

2. Incorporate a Quote 

If you’re struggling to think of what you should write, try starting with a quote. Many people turn to religious texts during periods of mourning, or you could cull through the works of your loved one’s favorite author, musician, or role model. The experience can help ground you in the moment and expand your understanding of the person you want to honor.  

3. Consider the Tone 

memorial servicePeople approach grief differently, and the tone you use to write a eulogy depends on how you want to memorialize your loved one. Some people prefer to be deferential, while others take a more personal approach. There isn't a right or wrong answer—do what feels right to you and your family and speak from the heart. 

4. Keep It Short 

When you have a first draft written, read the eulogy aloud and time yourself. About five minutes is the ideal length—it will give you enough time to tell a story or two while holding everyone’s attention. Length is especially important if you know children or elderly individuals will be at the memorial service, as some people can become uncomfortable after long periods of sitting still. 

5. Write It Down 

Even if you know the eulogy by heart, you should keep a paper copy with you when you deliver the speech. Funerals and memorial services can feel overwhelming, and it’s easy to forget what you wanted to say when you’re standing in front of a crowd. When you print the eulogy, make sure the font is large enough to read when the page is held at a comfortable distance from your face. 

 

If you need help preparing for a funeral or memorial service in Berkeley County, WV, Brown Funeral Homes & Cremations can help. The Brown family has served the Martinsburg community since 1880, and the funeral home offers 24-hour assistance for families with an immediate need. To learn more about their compassionate staff and services, visit their website. If you’d like to speak with a funeral director, call (304) 263-8896 today. 

tracking