Delivering a eulogy for a loved one is an honor. It can also be a challenge for people who are uncertain about the best way to give the speech. This short talk is written to commemorate the life of the deceased. Sharing these words with mourners can be cathartic as you gather together to celebrate the person’s life. If you’re tasked with speaking at the funeral service, here’s what you should know.

Do:

Practice your delivery beforehand.

Just as you would with any type of public presentation, it’s helpful to go over the words in full a couple of times before the funeral service. Read it to yourself first so that you know precisely what to expect—this is particularly important if you did not write the eulogy yourself and are reading it on someone’s behalf.

Then, read it aloud in front of one or two people. This is helpful because you can get some feedback if needed, but it will also help you feel more comfortable reading these words in front of an audience.

Allow time for tears and laughter.

A funeral service is a naturally somber affair. It’s only normal that you might cry while you’re reading emotional words about the deceased to a group of people. It’s also normal that those people may also cry while you’re reading.

At the same time, some eulogies have bits of humor injected into them. It’s perfectly appropriate to introduce lighthearted moments to the service, and to pause as needed while you’re speaking to allow for a small laugh.

Don’t:

Rush your way through the speech.

If you’re anxious, you may find that you read the copy very quickly in an effort to get through it. You may not even realize that you’re doing this until the speech is over. That’s why it’s so helpful to go over it a couple of times.

Read it carefully and precisely during the service so that you don’t skip words. Breathe deeply before you begin, and allow yourself moments to pause and collect yourself as needed.

There are few moments in life as emotional as this, and you must give yourself permission to feel what you feel—even when you’re reading a eulogy publicly.

Forget about the people in the front.

Immediate family members typically sit in the first few rows at the funeral home. These are the people closest to the deceased, and they are the ones to whom you should direct your attention as you speak. They’ll take comfort in your words, and you can also take comfort in knowing that you are playing a pivotal role in their loved one’s farewell.
 

Families throughout Fairfield County, CT, have trusted in our caring and compassionate staff at Abriola Parkview Funeral Home since 1906. Our family-owned and -operated funeral home assists with planning funeral services, cremations, and burial services, and we are committed to helping you as best as possible through this difficult time. Visit us online for information, or call us at (203) 373-1013.