When you lose someone you care about it can be difficult to find the words to truly express the legacy they have left behind. Preparing a eulogy can be challenging, especially if writing doesn’t come naturally to you.
Eulogies are a beautiful way to honour the memory of someone who has passed and it’s your chance to share stories and celebrate the life they have lived through your words. While it may feel overwhelming at first, writing a eulogy doesn’t have to be hard. Here are a few tips from our Heritage Brothers Gold Coast funeral directors to guide you through the process so you can create a heartfelt and memorable eulogy.
Your eulogy can include information about key moments in the life of your loved one; the day they were born, their childhood, family and any other important milestones that stand out.
For many, it may be surprising to learn new things about their friend or family member and it allows others to reflect on the part they played in this person’s life and how they contributed to the memories that they shared.
The personal stories you have about your loved one who has passed can help others connect with cherished memories, offering comfort and showcasing the impact they had on the lives around them. Whether it’s a funny anecdote, an act of kindness or something they used to say, these personal touches will add more meaning to your eulogy and bring smiles to those listening.
We understand you probably have a lot to say about your loved one and the impact they had on your life, however, a shorter eulogy is more likely to maintain the attention of those listening and allows the service to flow more smoothly. We recommend eulogies to last between five and ten minutes.
Don’t be afraid to ask others for inspiration if you don’t know where to begin. Talking to other family members or friends to gather stories or insights can help spark memories and give your eulogy more meaning.
While it is a very emotional time, it’s important to try and focus on the positive impact your loved one had on those around them. While it’s okay to mention difficult times, the emphasis should remain on celebrating their lives.
Did your loved one have a favourite poem, piece of writing or song lyric? You can include an excerpt in your eulogy to add a personal and thoughtful touch and give everyone present an opportunity to connect with something that held meaning in their life.
The most important thing to remember is to be yourself. Speak from your heart and about the connection you had with your loved one, and don’t feel the pressure to be perfect. Authenticity is always better than something that comes across as stiff and scripted. Let your genuine emotions and memories guide you, as those listening will appreciate the honesty and warmth in your words.
Rehearsing the eulogy can help calm your nerves. It also helps to gauge the timing and ensure your message comes across in the way you intend. If possible, ask a close friend or family member to listen and give you feedback.
Remember, it’s okay if you don’t follow your eulogy exactly as planned. Emotions may surface during the delivery, and taking a moment to pause, adjust, or speak from the heart is perfectly acceptable.
While writing a eulogy may feel challenging in the beginning, it’s a beautiful opportunity to pay tribute to someone who has deeply touched your life. By reflecting on their story, sharing cherished memories, and speaking with love, your words will help others celebrate their memory too.
Need extra support during this time? The team at Heritage Brothers Funeral Services is here to help.
