Because a funeral is meant to honor the memory of a person who has passed while easing their loved ones, nearly every aspect of planning a service is challenging. However, one of the toughest decisions to make is assigning someone to give the eulogy. This speech is meant to meaningfully commemorate the one who is being laid to rest, and many people have trouble selecting someone to deliver it. Below, learn more about this process so that you and your family can make an informed and considerate decision. 

Who Should I Consider?

There isn’t an exact science to choosing someone to deliver a eulogy, but ideally, it should be someone who was especially familiar with the person who has passed. A spouse, sibling, son, daughter, or a close friend may quickly come to mind, but other appropriate candidates would include cousins, co-workers, bosses, teachers, or religious leaders. In any case, the person who gives the eulogy should be someone who can be trusted to be sensitive and tactful. They should also feel comfortable in front of crowds and able to keep their emotions in check enough to deliver the eulogy smoothly. 

It’s also perfectly fine for more than one person to give a eulogy at a funeral. Perhaps a couple of people could do one together, or several family members could each be allotted time to say a few words. The eulogies could even be divided by different facets of the life of the deceased. For example, maybe a co-worker or boss could comment on the individual’s professional life, a religious leader could expound upon their faith, and a close friend or family member could reflect on their life, personality, and interests.  

It is equally important to make sure that the chosen candidate for the eulogy is willing to deliver it. Refrain from finalizing the funeral arrangements before you’ve spoken with the person you have in mind and feel assured that they’re comfortable with it. 

How Else Can People Participate?

Whether you’re doing funeral preplanning for yourself or making arrangements for a loved one you’ve lost, it’s imperative to encourage a peaceful atmosphere at the funeral, so try to make sure that the whole family is in agreement. Discuss possible options and choose one that makes sense for everyone. Those who want to give a eulogy but are ultimately not assigned to the task could participate in other ways, such as performing music, reciting poetry, or saying a prayer. 

If you’d like experienced guidance in choosing someone to deliver a eulogy for your funeral or that of a loved one, turn to Robert W. Waid Funeral Home in Meadville, PA. Having been conducting beautiful and tasteful funeral services for more than 100 years, they’re available 24 hours a day to help with every aspect of the funeral planning. They also offer grief support so that anyone left behind can move forward with dignity and comfort. For details, contact them today at (814) 724-1021 or message them online.