what to say in a funeral speech for a friend

Touching Eulogy Examples for a Dear Friend

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You can find examples of a touching eulogy that says how dear your friend is to you. With a few easy tips and examples, you can either revise an existing eulogy or write your own.

How to Choose a Touching Eulogy for a Dear Friend

The criteria for choosing the right eulogy for your dear friend depends on the sentiments you wish to express. Consider what your friend meant to you and write down the various sentiments that best describe your friendship. Choose one sentiment and then use it to build your eulogy; these are printable using Adobe and can be edited as needed. The examples are also included at the end of this article.

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Long Eulogy for a Friend

If you're the main speaker, your eulogy will naturally be longer and cover more of your friend's life.

Short Eulogy for a Friend

When several people have been asked to speak, you will want to keep your friend's eulogy on the shorter side to allow everyone a time to speak.

How to Write a Eulogy for a Friend

Once you know the sentiment you wish to express, it's time to start writing your eulogy . You can divide the eulogy into sections so it's easier to write.

Welcome and introduction - The first part of your eulogy is the welcome and introduction. Thank those for coming to celebrate the life of your friend. Follow this with a brief introduction about your relationship with the deceased before going into more eulogy information .
Share a few memories of your friend - Choose moments everyone can relate to and illustrate the sentiment you choose as the centerpiece of your tribute to your friend. This might be a story about spending summer vacation together at the beach or hiking in the state park.
Illustrate your friendship with a story - Reveal your friend's personality and your friendship. Don't make these long, detailed stories, just hit the high points. Use a few snippets that are touching and warm.
Mention deceased's family - Acknowledge family members; if possible, include them in the stories or select one of your friend's endearing qualities and relate a story demonstrating that quality that includes their family.
Uplifting conclusion - You want to conclude your eulogy with something that is spiritually and emotionally uplifting, yet relative to your friend and your friendship.

Eulogy for a Best Friend Poem

You may decide that a poem is the best approach for a eulogy for a best friend. Sometimes, a poem can express your sentiments better than you. It may be that your friend had a favorite poem and its significance is perfect for a eulogy.

Eulogy for a Friend Quotes

When you write a eulogy for a dear friend, you may decide to include a quote or two . The quotes should express your thoughts and feelings about your friend. It may be that your friend had a favorite quote or used a quoted as a life mantra, so including it in your eulogy would be very appropriate.

Long Example for a Friend

You might find an example of a touching eulogy for a dead friend helpful. At the very least, you may be inspired and gain a better understanding of what you wish to include in your eulogy. Long version of dear friend eulogy:

"First, I'd like to thank everyone for being here to help Josie's family and friends celebrate her life. I met Josie on a school field trip to the state aquarium. At the time, we attended different schools, but our two groups ended up on the same tour.

"I immediately liked Josie's sense of humor. The tour guide named all the species and told a little about each one. When the tour guide asked if anyone in the group knew the name of the shark swimming in the tank behind him, Josie raised her hand and replied, 'Maneater.'

"We kept in touch after the field trip and a year later Josie's dad, Frank, took a job here in town and Josie and I became inseparable. It was a dream come true that we were able to see each other every day.

"We went on each other's family vacations. We shared everything from our first boy crushes to our first dates. We texted each other all the time, sent selfies and made plans about our future lives. Those plans won't come to pass now. She was taken from us by a drunk driver. In that one moment, her life ended. Everything we planned vanished.

"But my memories remain. I still laugh whenever I think about us trying to sneak back into her bedroom one night while on vacation. We didn't realize the rental property had an automated sprinkler system. I can still hear her squealing and giggling as we tried to dodge the sprinklers, only to be blinded by floodlights triggered by a motion detector.

"Her parents, Frank and Maude, weren't giggling when they opened the front door holding towels. They dried us off and fixed us a midnight snack and then promptly grounded both of us for a week.

"I shall always miss my dear friend. She made me laugh, and she was always there to help me figure things out, listen to me when I was upset, and cheer me up when I was down.

"Josie was fearless and forever curious about - everything. Her favorite quote was from an ancient history class we took together a few years ago. The ancient Greek philosopher Epictetus said, "There is only one way to happiness, and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will." Josie lived this quote and I'll try to live it. For certainly, her no longer being here is something well beyond the power of our will."

Short Eulogy Example for a Friend

Sometimes a short eulogy for a friend is an ideal choice. You want to consider the funeral venue and frame your eulogy according to the setting and those in attendance. For example, if your friend was a musician, you may want to have a shorter eulogy so you can play your friend's favorite song . Short eulogy written for a fellow musician:

"Thank you all for being here today to give John a proper send off for a fellow musician. I met John about six years ago when we were both playing gigs in Memphis. We connected that first set and went on to form our little jazz band, ending up playing here in New Orleans. John wasn't a formal guy and would never want me eulogizing him. He was humble and the only thing he valued almost as much as his family and friends was his music. John once told me, he could give up beer, pizza and chocolate peanuts - and we all know how much he loved those foods - but the one thing he couldn't live without was music. So, John this song is for you, brother, with all my heart, you are the one thing in life I never thought I'd have to give up!"

Tribute to a Friend at a Funeral

When you give a touch eulogy for a dear friend, you want it to convey your emotions about your friend. You want the eulogy to serve as an example of who your friend was and how he/she touched your life and the lives of others.

Notifications

How to write a eulogy for a friend.

Writing a eulogy for a friend is a rare, but unfortunate, opportunity to publicly share and reflect on the meaning behind your relationship with said friend. It’s a unique moment to share with a group of people who loved this individual as much as you did and to connect with them over how much this individual meant to all of you. Being asked to give a funeral speech for a friend at their funeral can feel like a lot, but it’s generally because those asking know how close you were to the deceased. If you’ve never written a eulogy before, simply follow these steps so you can feel confident when reading the tribute to your friend at the funeral.

What is a eulogy?

A eulogy (also known as a funeral speech or funeral tribute) is a short speech that’s read in memory of someone who has passed away. Eulogies are most often read by someone the deceased was close with or someone important from their lives (normally a family member or friend); they typically take around 3 - 10 minutes total to read.

How to write a eulogy for a friend

If you’re like many eulogy writers in that you’ve never written a eulogy before and aren't’ sure where to start, here are some steps to get you going:

Start by looking through eulogy examples for a friend. Looking at sample eulogies for a friend can help you figure out many things when writing a eulogy, such as the style you like, the content you want to include, eulogy for a friend quotes or other poems or popular readings you’d like to reference, the tone of the eulogy, and the length of the eulogy. Samples are a great way to figure out your own style and how you’d like to apply it when writing a touching eulogy for a friend.
Once you have a basic understanding of what a eulogy looks like and the kind of content typically included in it, it’s time to read through a guide on how to write a eulogy . The guide will give you step-by-step instructions on how to write the eulogy. (Looking at examples of great eulogies for a friend is always helpful, but knowing the standard structure of a eulogy can help you figure out when to depart from the norm and how to customize the eulogy when you’re ready.)
After you’ve filtered through eulogy examples you like and have an understanding of what you’re going to do, it’s time to start the actual writing process. To get started, consider some of these questions: What qualities did your friend have? What made them special? What were their pet peeves? What were their passions in life? What riled them up? How are they most often described? How did your friendship make you feel? How did you meet? What are some of your favorite memories? What are some lessons they taught you that you’ll hold on to? What kind of person were they?
With your reflections written out and the main content of your eulogy identified, start writing them down in the form of a eulogy. This is a good time to identify any poems or quotes you want to include in the eulogy for your friend.
After you’ve finalized the written eulogy, try reading it in front of another friend or family member to get a feel for how the eulogy sounds when read aloud. If you’re comfortable with it, ask the family member or friend for feedback or suggestions.

If you eventually decide you’re not comfortable writing the eulogy on your own, you always have the option to hire a professional eulogy writer to write a eulogy in your stead. Hiring a professional eulogy writer does not have to be something you share with others, and they generally have pretty quick turnaround times if you find yourself in a pinch.

Order a eulogy

Is it appropriate to write a lighthearted eulogy?

Eulogies are unique; they can be as serious or light hearted as the individual writing the eulogy wants them to be. Of course, when delivering the eulogy, it can help to think about how the eulogy will be received by those attending, but the most important part is to remain true to the person who passed away. If they were a happy-go-lucky person and always upbeat, reflecting this aspect of their personality in the eulogy would be considered honoring who they were as an individual. At the same time, if you happen to be a very upbeat person but your friend was more serious and reserved, it’s important to stay true to the type of person they were (not the type of person you are).

I’m not good with public speaking. What should I do?

If you’re not comfortable with public speaking, don’t worry! You’re not alone. Many, many, many people struggle with public speaking and aren’t comfortable with it at any point. Public speaking at a funeral can present additional pressure and emotional dysregulation that can lead to you feeling not up to par, even if you’re normally comfortable with public speaking. If you’re worried you won’t be able to make it through the speech or just don’t want to give a public speech at the funeral, you have some options:

Consider asking a friend or family member to read the eulogy you wrote.
Ask someone to stand alongside you when you read the eulogy and jump in if you need their assistance.
Ask someone else to write a eulogy alongside you that you both read at the funeral.
Say a few short words instead of a full eulogy or funeral speech.

If you decide you don’t want to do a speech but still want to share the speech you wrote, you can always post it online for others to read using an Ever Loved memorial website .

Setting up a memorial website on Ever Loved is an easy way to keep everyone in touch and informed about any upcoming events. Memorial websites let you easily collect photos and memories, share event information, collect donations, and keep in touch with everyone attending (and not attending) any upcoming events – all in one place.

Start a website

Create a memorial website

Find a funeral home, get free grief support, how to write a eulogy for a sister.

Writing a eulogy for a sister is a brief opportunity to reflect on how special your relationship was, how unique your sister was and what made her stand out from those around you. If you’ve never written a eulogy before, don’t worry! These steps will guide you through the process of writing a beauti

How to Write a Eulogy for a Mother

Writing a eulogy for a beloved mother is a rare opportunity to share with your friends, family, and loved ones the importance of your mother’s life in your own (and in the lives of others). For those who have never written a funeral speech for a mother, this may feel like a lot of pressure. How can

How to Write a Eulogy for a Father

Writing a eulogy for a father is a beautiful chance to share what your dad meant to you with your loved ones and community. If you’ve never written a funeral speech for a father (which you very likely haven’t), this may feel a little overwhelming, but there’s no need to worry. Most people who write

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what to say in a funeral speech for a friend

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Eulogy examples to help you write a eulogy for a memorial service

Funeral speech examples from around the world.

By: Susan Dugdale

How do you begin to write a meaningful eulogy?

And how is it possible to say everything you want to about a person's entire life story in a few, very brief, minutes?

Both those questions are natural responses to having a eulogy to write for a funeral service.

Grief, together with the desire to honor your loved-one the best way you can, and the pressure of a tight timeframe, can make it feel like an almost insurmountable challenge.

That's why reading what others have written in similar circumstances helps a great deal.

What's on this page:

Access to 70+ eulogy examples, the whys and wherefores of the collection: its background, a submission form to use if you want to contribute a eulogy and links to other useful pages on my site.

Quick links

I want to browse and read the example eulogies in the order they have been received . (The most recent is at the top of the list.)
I want to submit a eulogy I have written .
I want to read specific types of eulogies : eulogies for mothers, fathers, an older brother, a dear friend...
I want help with the eulogy writing process.

About these eulogy examples

I am fortunate to be able to make available to you a large, and growing, collection of funeral speech examples.

They've been written by people from all over the world, who are just like you and me. They too have family and friends whom they care for deeply.

Look and you'll find examples of eulogies for mothers, fathers, grandparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins, mentors, colleagues, a close friend..., in short: loved ones.

The people who've written them have shared them to help people like yourself. Because they've been where you are now with a funeral speech to prepare, they know how it feels to be searching for inspiration, trying to find a starting point.

Some of the speeches are short. Some of them are funny. All of them are heartfelt, and they appear in the order I received them.

To see them, jump to eulogy samples .

Return to Top

Help to find specific eulogy examples easily

If you're looking for an example of a eulogy for a particular kind of person, and don't want to browse your way through the chronologically ordered list below, use these links to go straight to a collection of:

eulogies for mothers
eulogies for fathers
eulogies for sisters
eulogies for sons
eulogies for grandmothers
eulogies for grandfathers
eulogies for friends
eulogies for colleagues

I've grouped all the speeches I've received through this page according to their type on a new page here: sample eulogies . Whenever a eulogy is submitted, I add its link to the category it belongs to.

Collage of 12 labels: Eulogies for Mothers, Eulogies for Fathers, Eulogies for Sisters, Eulogies for Brothers...

The story behind this collection of eulogies

It began with two funeral speeches I had written.

Almost as soon as I put them online, they attracted an enormous number of visitors.

It was then I realized the need for more.

I also knew my examples would not answer everybody's needs.

The one for my sister was different in approach.

The one for my friend and next-door neighbor was not what a grieving person with a eulogy speech to write for a close family member really wanted to see.

My two were definitely not enough!

Image: blue forget-me-not flowers. Text: What do forget-me-not flowers symbolize? Remembrance, enduring love, faithfulness

Offering a wider variety of funeral speeches

To be really useful there needed to be a wider variety of funeral speeches. We needed eulogies for mothers, fathers, sons, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, colleagues, friends, people who died unexpectedly and suddenly...

And we needed them to reflect the diverse countries and faiths of the people visiting the site.

I decided to ask for more. Lo and behold, they began to arrive through my eulogy submission form below.

Help to make writing a eulogy easier.

After you've read a few eulogy examples, and you want help to prepare your own speech you'll find it here: how to write a good eulogy .

Image: bunches of white lily of the valley flowers. Text: How to write a eulogy step by step

The article has step-by-step instructions, examples, a very useful free 15-page printable eulogy planning template to download , as well as comprehensive answers for 13 FAQs about eulogies :

how do you start a eulogy ?
how do you end a eulogy ?
do you read a eulogy or memorize it?
how do you stop from crying when you give a eulogy ?

Why do people share a deeply personal speech?

The people sending their eulogies to me to publish fully appreciate that writing a funeral speech under pressure can be a difficult, sad and lonely task - sometimes one of the hardest things they've ever done.

They know from experience having examples to read can lessen that burden. It's a good way of starting to find the right words to tell their own personal stories and share their favorite memories about a person they have loved.

Theirs is a kind and generous act, one that's been repeated over 70 times already.

Wonderfully, some of the people who've come searching for help to write their own eulogy, have returned to share what they've written.

(Read Craig's comment below his eulogy for his Grandmother, Bertha or Byrona's below her eulogy for her Dad for verification.

Both were helped by funeral speeches they found here and wanted what they had written to assist others in the same way.)

So, if you've written a eulogy...

Would you consider sharing it?

It would help others enormously.

Every day people look for tips on how to a write eulogy or to find eulogy examples to read. I know because I see it reflected in my website visitor statistics.

I also know because of the comments people leave under speeches. They are so very grateful to have found a eulogy expressing how they feel.

For instance, see the comments on Eulogy for my Son , on Eulogy for my Grandmother - Bertha , or Sharon Catley's poem for her Mother, Journey's End .

You know how it generally is with a speech of this sort. Typically, there is not much time to prepare, and you want to get it right.

Reading what others have done helps in the best possible way.

These eulogies inspire and give people the courage to do what they need to do.

Despite our differences what we all have in common is the desire to speak about our loved ones the very best way we can.

The more examples we have, the more likely a person is going to find a speech that resonates and meets their needs.

You too could help by submitting the eulogy you've written. It's very simple to do.

Image background blue forget-me-nots. Text: Thank you for sharing.

When you're ready...

PS. If you would like to share your eulogy but have privacy concerns around using your loved one's name you could use a fictional name, like Bob or Sue in place of their real one. Be assured too, that although there is the possibility that people reading your speech might wish to respond, no comment goes live without my permission.

Enter the title of your eulogy

Entering the text of your eulogy is easy to do. Just type!

Your eulogy will appear on a page exactly the way you enter it here. You can wrap a word in square brackets to make it appear bold. For example [my eulogy for Mary] would show as on the page containing your eulogy.

Do you have a picture to add? Great! Click the button and find it on your computer. Then select it.

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Click the headline links below to read the eulogies or funeral speeches shared by visitors to this page...

Click here to write your own.

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A Guide to Writing a Funeral Speech: 8 Heartfelt Examples

By: Author Camila Steinfeld

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories Writing Prompts

A Guide to Writing a Funeral Speech: 8 Heartfelt Examples

With the passing of a loved one comes the responsibility of making arrangements for their funeral. This includes deciding who will be saying a funeral speech at the funeral service.

Saying a funeral speech is not something that should be undertaken unprepared. It requires some forethought and planning.

A funeral is an emotional occasion and delivering a speech, unprepared, in front of the congregation is a recipe for disaster = one that will not soon be forgiven.

The ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ of a Funeral Speech

When you sit down to decide what you’re going to say in your eulogy speech, there are a few factors you need to take into consideration.

Outline: How to build a funeral speech

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Here are some examples of a funeral speech that celebrates the deceased’s life but at the same time expresses the grief of the speaker.

A Eulogy for a Mother

The last thing I imagined myself doing today was delivering the eulogy at my mother’s funeral.

Despite the fact that she was ill, and we knew her passing was inevitable, it has still come as a shock to us as a family.

My mother was a phenomenal woman who possessed reserves of strength and patience that seemed to be infinite.

We, her children, were her pride and joy; she regarded us as the greatest accomplishment of her life. That doesn’t mean that raising us was easy, nor always enjoyable.

My siblings and I gave her a lot of gray hairs along the way. But, regardless of our misdeeds, she would always find it in her heart to forgive us.

And not only that, she would have enough faith in us to believe that we would not transgress again.

One of my fondest memories of my mother is watching her sit down and relax after a long day. She worked hard at her job and came home to run her household. That meant that she had very little time to herself.

And even with the little ‘me time’ she had, she never used it for herself. She’d always be knitting or sewing or making something that we needed.

What our family lacked in money, my mother more than made up for with love.

My mother was the heart of our home, the center of our universe, and the greatest example of unconditional love we could’ve hoped to have.

A Eulogy for a Father

My father was a quiet man. He seldom said much. That’s why, when he did have something to say, we listened.

That may make him sound like he was distant, but nothing could be further from the truth.

He was always interested in what was going on in our lives and was extraordinarily proud of our achievements.

Whether it was scoring a home run in a Little League baseball game or getting a bursary for a university, he delighted in our successes.

As a child, one of the places I felt the safest was in the arms of my father. In fact, right now, that’s the place I wish I was more than anything else.

He was a hardworking man who set a great example for my siblings and me. We learned from him that, regardless of the task, it was not worth doing if you didn’t want to do it properly.

My father had an incredibly dry sense of humor. It took us a while to grasp it because, as children, we didn’t get it.

But as we grew up, we began to understand his wit and laugh at the things he said.

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He presided over family dinners with a quiet dignity that spoke of a patriarch who took that responsibility seriously.

He was the mediator in our disputes as siblings and always took the high road, refusing to take sides.

He’s left a gap in our lives that we can’t even begin to contemplate filling.

A Funeral Speech for a Best Friend

Jennifer and I met, two gap-toothed first-grader’s, on the first day of school – ever.

Something drew us to each other though. We could never quite figure out what it was, but it’s lasted a lifetime.

As children, we would spend hours with each other without talking that much.

We just understood each other. Even if you put us on either side of a big room full of people, Jennifer and I would always find our way back to each other immediately.

We survived high school together. I’m not sure if either of us would’ve made it without the other. We laughed and cried together so many times.

There were crushes and boyfriends that caused heartache and heartbreak. But, throughout it all, we were always there for each other, no matter what – no matter how many times I needed a shoulder to cry on, Jennifer was there.

We went to different colleges after high school and the careers and lives we pursued after our studies were poles apart. We lived far away from each other and I’ll be honest, we sometimes went for long periods without talking, which I regret.

I’ll be honest, we sometimes went for long periods without talking, which I regret.

But every time we spoke or saw each other though, we picked up where we left off, and it felt like we’d never been apart.

It’s that mutual love and respect that makes me know Jennifer was the best friend I could ever have had.

A Eulogy for a Wife

I don’t know where to begin to tell you about the enormous gaping hole that Samantha’s passing has left in my life.

It feels like half of me has vanished in an instant, and I’m not sure I’ll ever feel whole again.

Samantha was an amazing woman. She had such an infectious zest for life that she could always find the humor or a silver lining of any situation, regardless of the gravity. Anything seemed possible with her attitude.

The way she attacked the obstacles she encountered with such strength and determination was inspirational.

Samantha and I met quite by accident. I walked into her office in error – and there she was: the most beautiful woman I had ever seen. She seemed to radiate some kind of magnetic attraction.

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I knew there and then that I would never be able to stay away from her, and that my life would not be complete without her in it. She didn’t make it easy.

I had to ask her out several times before she agreed. But when I look back on the life we’ve shared, it was more than worth it.

Our children were the center of Samantha’s world. She took her role as a mother seriously and did an amazing job of raising them to be the adults they are today.

I wish I’d had more time with her, I really do. But I will treasure the years I had with her in my heart for the rest of my life.

A Funeral Speech for a Husband

The thing that made me fall in love with Stephen was his sense of humor. He always made me laugh, even when all I wanted to do was cry.

Whenever I’d get angry or upset with him – for whatever reason – I’d always wind up laughing because he could always make me see the funny side of it.

As a husband, Stephen was supportive of everything I did.

Like when I decided that the patio needed to be refurbished. He was right by my side working so hard to help me, even though I’m sure the last thing he felt like doing was revamping the patio.

In fact, I know he would have preferred to spend his weekend resting and relaxing. But he never let me down. Tired or not, he’d help me with all my ‘projects’.

Stephen endeared himself to me even more when we became parents. He was so proud to be a father and a wonderfully hands-on partner.

I couldn’t have asked for a better father for my children. In fact, there were times I had to ask him to be a bit more hands-off so that I could get to my babies!

The lives of our children and their achievements gave Stephen an enormous amount of satisfaction.

He supported them every step of the way. He picked them up when they fell or failed.

He encouraged them to keep going. And he showed them how to be the resilient adults they have become.

My life was better that I could have ever imagined, and fuller that I ever dreamed because of Stephen’s presence by my side.

A Eulogy for a brother

I’m not going to stand up here and tell you that it was all sunshine and roses between David and myself growing up.

There were times I wished he wasn’t my brother. And I’m sure there were times he wished I wasn’t his sister.

We seemed to have a knack for pushing each other’s buttons, sometimes with some amusing consequences, sometimes not.

From the outset, David stood out as an individual. He did not march to the beat of society’s drum. He had his own internal drumbeat, and he remained committed to it.

One of my favorite memories of David is the one-and-only time my mother asked him to water her indoor plants. True to form, David came up with a plan to make the job easier.

He brought the hose and sprinkler indoors and turned it on. I’ll never forget the look on my mother’s face and the mischievous grin on David’s.

As we grew older, I began to see David for what he truly was. He was a caring brother who’d do anything to protect me.

He let me cry on his shoulder when I went through my first break-up. He was the only one who understood my hurt and confusion when our parents divorced.

David was a loyal and kind person who’d never let you down.

He’d have given anyone the shirt off his back. I’m proud to have called this incredibly special man my brother.

A Funeral Speech for a Sister

My sister Janet never met a challenge she didn’t conquer.

Even as a baby, she showed an exceptional amount of determination. She would turn her mind to an obstacle and work on it until she’d overcome it.

Of course, she drove me crazy. Having a little sister who wanted to tag along was, at times, infuriating.

She would go through the things in my room and leave a mess. When she was about ten years old, she got into my makeup drawer and went completely overboard.

When I caught her, she had rainbow-colored eyelids, forehead and cheeks. Her lips and teeth were full of lipstick, and there was mascara everywhere. I was furious at the time. When she saw how angry I was, she began to cry.

Anytime she’d open those beautiful big brown eyes of hers, silently reminding me that she was my flesh and blood, I couldn’t stay angry with her.

She’d open those beautiful big brown eyes and remind me that she was my flesh and blood. And I couldn’t stay angry with her.

Janet was an exemplary student. She had an incredible work ethic. If she didn’t understand something, she’d work at it until she did.

Losing my sister is so heartbreaking. She had so much left to offer the world.

But wherever she is, I know that she’s looking down on me now with those gorgeous brown eyes and that beautiful smile.

A Funeral Speech for a Close Acquaintance (e.g., a teacher, boss, coworker)

I’d like to start by offering John’s family my sincerest condolences.

Your loss is so great. You had a special man in your midst, and I’m can’t imagine the depth of loss you must feel.

John was my high school English teacher, so you might wonder why I refer to him as John and not as Mr. Robinson; it was at his insistence, as soon as I graduated.

When I first called him Mr. Robinson after graduation, he’d turned around and said, “Is my father standing behind me?” When I replied in the negative, he’d said, “Then why are you saying his name?”

John taught me so much more than English. He taught me how to think critically, and not to take things at face value.

40 Best Examples for a Thank You Note to Teacher

He showed me the value of questioning that which was placed before me as fact. Thanks to him, I developed analytical skills that I continue to use today.

John’s work ethic influenced me greatly. He would always show us the value of hard work and diligence. I took those lessons to heart.

His passion for teaching English was contagious. I fell in love with the language on a different level thanks to him. He made the written word come alive in class.

He may not have known it, but John fulfilled an important role in my life. He was like a father, an uncle, and a big brother all rolled into one.

He shaped me into the man I am today. There are no words I can use to express my gratitude, which I know would disappoint John. After all, he made sure he taught us a wide vocabulary

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How to Deliver a Heartfelt Funeral Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

Funeral speeches play a crucial role in honoring the life of a loved one who has passed away. They provide solace to grieving family members and friends, while also sharing the essence of the person’s life and their impact on those around them. A well-crafted eulog y captures the unique qualities of the deceased, allowing attendees to relive fond memories and celebrate the individual’s life.

Writing and delivering a heartfelt eulogy can be a daunting task. The pressure to create the “best eulogy ever” can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with your own grief. The internet is filled with various funeral eulogy examples, from funny eulogy examples that highlight the person’s wit to deeply emotional tributes. Famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks have set the bar high.

Finding the perfect balance between honoring the person’s life and providing comfort to loved ones can be challenging. In this step-by-step guide, we will explore how to write and deliver a heartfelt funeral speech, drawing inspiration from eulogy examples and famous eulogies to help you pay tribute to your beloved family member or close friend.

II. Understanding the Purpose of a Funeral Speech

A. honoring the deceased.

A funeral speech is an opportunity to honor the deceased by highlighting their unique qualities, accomplishments, and the impact they had on the lives of others. The best eulogy ever would capture the essence of the person’s life and character, creating a lasting tribute that resonates with attendees. Famous eulogies, such as Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks, serve as inspiring examples of how to pay homage to a loved one.

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B. Comforting the bereaved

One of the primary purposes of a funeral speech is to provide comfort and solace to the bereaved family and friends. Sharing fond memories, funny eulogy examples, and heartfelt stories can help lighten the atmosphere and offer consolation to those in mourning. A well-crafted eulogy helps celebrate the person’s life while acknowledging the pain of their passing, striking the perfect balance between grief and happy memories.

C. Sharing memories and stories

A funeral speech allows you to share personal experiences and stories about the deceased, creating a tapestry of memories that paint a vivid picture of their life. Drawing from short eulogy examples and famous eulogies like Mona Simpson’s eulogy for Steve Jobs and Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson can help illustrate the impact one person can have on the lives of many. By sharing these stories, a funeral speech can create a sense of connection and closeness among the attendees, reminding us all of the special bond we shared with our beloved family member or close friend.

III. Gathering Information and Memories

A. talking to family and friends.

Before diving into writing the best eulogy ever, it’s essential to gather information and collect memories from family and friends of the deceased. This can help provide a more comprehensive understanding of the person’s life, character, and impact on others. Conversations with close friends and family members can reveal heartwarming stories and funny eulogy examples that might not be known otherwise. These anecdotes can help paint a vivid picture of the deceased, making the eulogy more authentic and relatable.

B. Reflecting on your own experiences with the deceased

In addition to gathering information from others, take the time to reflect on your own experiences and earliest memories with the deceased. This will allow you to recall fond memories and special moments you shared together. Consider how much one person’s life has influenced your own and what lessons you’ve learned from them. Personal stories and experiences can make the eulogy more genuine and create a deeper connection with the audience.

C. Organizing your thoughts

Once you’ve collected stories and memories from family, friends, and your own experiences, it’s time to organize your thoughts and determine the structure of your eulogy. Review various funeral eulogy examples, including famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks. Draw inspiration from these examples while keeping your eulogy unique and tailored to the person you are honoring.

As you organize your thoughts, consider incorporating elements from short eulogy examples, such as quotes, poems, or specific phrases that capture the essence of the person’s character. For instance, Cher shared a beautiful eulogy at Sonny Bono’s British memorial service, where she provided hope and comfort through her words.

By combining the gathered information, personal experiences, and inspiration from various eulogy examples, you can create a heartfelt tribute that honors the memory of your beloved family member or close friend.

IV. Structuring Your Funeral Speech

A. the opening: setting the tone.

Start your eulogy with an opening that sets the tone for the entire speech. You may choose to begin with a quote that represents the deceased, a personal anecdote, or simply an expression of love and admiration. Take inspiration from famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, or Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks. The opening should capture the essence of the person’s character and create an emotional connection with the audience.

B. The body: sharing stories and memories

Personal anecdotes.

In the body of your funeral speech, share personal anecdotes that illustrate the person’s life and the impact they had on others. These stories can be drawn from your own experiences, as well as those shared by family and friends. Personal anecdotes help paint a vivid picture of the deceased and offer a glimpse into their personality and values.

Humor and light moments

While grief is a natural part of any funeral speech, incorporating humor and light moments can provide relief and comfort to the bereaved. Funny eulogy examples, such as John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman or Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson, demonstrate how laughter can be a powerful healing tool. Be sure to balance humor with sensitivity, ensuring that your jokes and anecdotes are appropriate for the occasion.

Lessons learned and values cherished

Share the lessons learned and values cherished by the deceased throughout their life. This can include their beliefs, passions, and the wisdom they imparted on others. Referencing short eulogy examples or famous eulogies like Mona Simpson’s eulogy for Steve Jobs can provide inspiration for this section of your speech.

C. The closing: expressing gratitude and hope

In the closing of your funeral speech, express gratitude for the time spent with the deceased and the happy memories you shared. Offer hope for the future by sharing how the person’s life will continue to impact others, even in their absence. Use powerful words and phrases to create a lasting impression, aiming to make your eulogy one of the best eulogies ever.

Drawing from funeral eulogy examples, like Cher’s beautiful eulogy at Sonny Bono’s British memorial service, can help you find the perfect balance of heartfelt emotion and hope. By incorporating elements of famous eulogies and personal stories, your funeral speech will pay tribute to your beloved family member or close friend while providing comfort and solace to those in attendance.

V. Tips for Writing a Heartfelt Eulogy

A. be authentic and genuine.

When writing a eulogy, it’s essential to be authentic and genuine in your words and emotions. The best eulogy ever is one that comes from the heart and truly reflects the person’s life and character. Draw inspiration from funeral eulogy examples and famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks, but make sure to infuse your own unique voice and perspective.

B. Use descriptive language

Using descriptive language in your eulogy helps paint a vivid picture of the person’s life and experiences. By employing vivid imagery and evocative words, you can bring memories to life and create a more immersive experience for the audience. Descriptive language can enhance even short eulogy examples, making them more memorable and impactful.

C. Focus on the positive aspects of the deceased’s life

While acknowledging grief and loss is important, focusing on the positive aspects of the deceased’s life can provide comfort and solace to those mourning. Share fond memories, happy moments, and the positive qualities of the person to celebrate their life and legacy. Funny eulogy examples, like Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson or John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, show the power of humor in highlighting the positive aspects of a person’s life.

D. Keep it concise and organized

An effective eulogy is concise and well-organized, guiding the audience through the person’s life and experiences while maintaining their attention. To achieve this, make use of keywords and phrases that capture the essence of the person and their impact, such as “fond memories,” “beloved mother,” “best friend,” or “so much fun.” Drawing inspiration from famous eulogies and eulogy examples can help you structure your speech and ensure that it remains engaging and focused. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful eulogy that pays tribute to your loved one and leaves a lasting impression on those who hear it.

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VI. Preparing for Delivery

A. practice reading your speech.

To ensure that your eulogy flows smoothly and resonates with the audience, practice reading it aloud several times before the funeral. This will help you become familiar with the text, allowing you to convey your message with confidence. As you read, consider the pacing and tone of your speech, ensuring that it aligns with the examples of great eulogies you have researched.

B. Anticipate emotions and have a backup plan

Delivering a eulogy can be an emotional experience, especially when recounting fond memories of a close friend or family member. Anticipate the emotions that may arise during your speech and have a backup plan in place, such as pausing to compose yourself or asking someone else to continue reading on your behalf if needed. By preparing for these moments, you can ensure that your tribute remains heartfelt and genuine.

C. Speak slowly and clearly

When delivering your eulogy, speak slowly and clearly to ensure that your message is easily understood by all attendees. As you share stories and memories, use descriptive language and keywords like “best eulogy ever,” “funny eulogy examples,” and “fond memories” to paint a vivid picture of the person’s life. Drawing from famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks can help you find inspiration for your delivery style. By speaking with clarity and conviction, you can create a powerful tribute that honors the memory of your loved one and leaves a lasting impression on those present at the funeral.

VII. Delivering the Funeral Speech

A. establish a connection with the audience.

Begin your speech by establishing a connection with the audience. Acknowledge the shared sense of loss and grief, and express your gratitude for their presence. This will create an atmosphere of empathy and support, setting the stage for your eulogy.

B. Maintain eye contact and use body language

As you deliver your speech, maintain eye contact with the audience and use appropriate body language to convey your emotions. This will help you engage with the attendees and create a more immersive experience. Be mindful of your posture and gestures, ensuring that they reflect the tone and content of your eulogy.

C. Be mindful of your tone and pace

When delivering your funeral speech, be conscious of your tone and pace. Use keywords like “best eulogy ever,” “funeral eulogy examples,” and “fond memories” to guide your delivery. Draw inspiration from famous eulogies such as Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks. Speak slowly and clearly, allowing your words to resonate with the audience.

As you share stories and happy memories, adjust your tone to match the emotion of each anecdote. Strive to strike a perfect balance between honoring the person and acknowledging grief, taking cues from examples like Mona Simpson’s eulogy for Steve Jobs and Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson.

In conclusion, delivering a heartfelt eulogy is an important task in honoring the life of a close friend or family member. By following these tips and drawing inspiration from famous eulogies and eulogy examples, you can create a beautiful tribute that captures the essence of the person’s life, character, and special bond with their loved ones. Remember to be authentic, use descriptive language, and pay tribute to the person’s life and fond memories while providing hope and comfort to those in attendance.

VIII. Example Eulogies

a. sample funeral speech for a parent.

Good afternoon, everyone.

Today, we come together in shared sorrow and collective admiration to bid farewell to a wonderful woman, my beloved mother, Susie. We gather here not only to mourn her passing but, more importantly, to celebrate the truly exceptional life she lived and the countless lives she touched in her time with us.

Susie was a woman of endless charm, warmth, and resilience – characteristics that deeply influenced my upbringing and those of my siblings. She had an uncanny ability to bring a sense of joy and peace to any room she walked into, even in times of chaos and confusion. With her radiant smile, she had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and appreciated. She was our North Star, the one who always guided us, always there to help us find our way back when we were lost.

When I think of my mother, a few memories immediately surface.

There was the time, in the depths of a harsh winter, when the neighborhood children were all huddled inside their homes, escaping the frosty chill. On that day, Susie gathered us all for an impromptu snowman-building competition. It wasn’t about the competition, but the unity, the shared laughter, the frostbitten fingers, and the warm cups of hot cocoa after that made it memorable. It was an embodiment of what she was to us all – a beacon of warmth, love, and unity.

Then there was the instance when I came home heartbroken from a failed math test. I remember the tears streaming down my face, the feeling of utter disappointment in myself. But Mom, she didn’t judge or criticize. She held me close and said, “In life, my dear, it’s not about the mistakes we make but how we learn from them.” And with her unwavering support, we tackled those equations together until they were no longer foreign to me. That was Susie, always there to pick us up when we stumbled, to turn our setbacks into comebacks, to show us that failing wasn’t the end but rather a chance to rise stronger.

Susie was also the core of our family, the glue that held us all together. She kept us rooted, reminding us about the importance of love, respect, and understanding in the family. Despite her struggles, despite the storms life threw at her, she never faltered in her dedication to her children and her unwavering faith in us. She was our greatest cheerleader, our most profound teacher, and our fiercest protector.

Losing her has created a void in our hearts, a silence in our lives that cannot be filled. But as we grieve, we also remember. We remember her laugh, echoing in the corners of our home. We remember her wisdom, imprinted deep within our hearts. And we remember her love, a love so powerful and so encompassing that it will continue to guide and strengthen us, even though she’s no longer physically with us.

As we say our final goodbyes today, let us remember Susie for the remarkable woman she was. Let’s honor her memory by embodying the values she taught us: compassion, resilience, love, and unity.

Susie, our dear mother, you are gone but never forgotten. Your spirit will live on within each of us, a guiding light in the dark, a comforting whisper in the wind, a constant reminder of the strength and love we carry within us, because of you.

Thank you for everything, Mom. We love you, and we will miss you always.

B. Sample funeral speech for a sibling

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today, we stand united in grief and solidarity, as we bid farewell to a life that touched ours in ways words can barely encapsulate. A life that was too short yet immensely vibrant, filled with love, laughter, and countless shared moments. Today, we remember my brother, my confidante, my friend, Jack.

Growing up with Jack was nothing short of an adventure. He was the peanut butter to my jelly, the yin to my yang. As kids, we were inseparable. We shared not just a room, but countless secrets, dreams, laughter, and even the occasional sibling squabble. But through all the highs and lows, there was always an underlying foundation of unwavering brotherly love.

One story that springs to mind, encapsulating the spirit of Jack, was our great ‘Treehouse Escapade’. We were just about ten and twelve then, and had set our hearts on building the perfect treehouse in the large oak tree at the end of our garden. We had no idea what we were doing, armed only with a sketch on a crumpled piece of paper and the confidence that only children possess. It took us the entire summer, hammers slipping, nails bending, and more than one accidental thump on a thumb. But Jack, ever the optimist, would laugh off the blunders, transforming our little project into a whirlwind of joy.

That treehouse wasn’t architecturally sound, nor was it a spectacle to behold. But it was our haven, a testament to our shared dreams, our determination, and the magic that Jack brought into every task he undertook. He was always the beacon guiding us towards laughter and fun, turning even the most mundane activities into cherished memories.

Jack had a heart larger than life itself. He was the first to lend a hand to anyone in need, the first to cheer you up when you were down. His sense of humor was legendary, his laughter infectious. When he walked into a room, you couldn’t help but feel the energy change – brighter, lighter, better.

But Jack wasn’t just my older brother; he was my mentor, my guide, my protector. I remember when I was about to head off to college, nervous and unsure of what the future held. It was Jack who sat me down and said, “In life, you’re going to face challenges and make mistakes, but always remember that it’s these experiences that shape us. Embrace them. Learn from them. And remember, no matter where you are, you’ll always have a piece of home with you.”

Losing Jack feels like a chapter of our shared book has abruptly ended. Yet, I find solace in the memories we created together. Every shared joke, every heart-to-heart conversation, every shared dream, and even the bittersweet tears, are all fragments of a beautiful mosaic that depicts a bond that can never be broken.

Jack, my dear brother, I am grateful for every moment we shared, for every laugh, every story, every life lesson. You were my north star in the darkest nights, my compass when I lost my way, my anchor in the roughest storms.

As we say our final goodbyes, we carry your spirit with us, your joy, your kindness, your unwavering zest for life. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Until we meet again, Jack, thank you for being the best brother I could have ever asked for. I love you, and I will carry you in my heart always.

C. Sample funeral speech for a friend

Dear Friends and Family,

Today we gather to remember a man whose life was as vibrant and dynamic as the waves of the ocean – forever in motion, brimming with energy, and touching the lives of everyone he met. A man who, in his time on earth, defined what it truly meant to be a friend, a confidante, a brother in spirit. We are here to celebrate the life of Mark.

Mark was more than a friend to all of us. He was the epitome of an adventurer, a soul that was forever curious, forever willing to explore the unknown, yet always ready to provide the comfort of familiarity when it was most needed.

One of the most unforgettable adventures we shared together was our unplanned road trip. I still remember that day. It was the kind of day when you feel the world weighing heavy on your shoulders. Mark turned up at my doorstep with nothing more than a mischievous grin and his beat-up old van, affectionately nicknamed “The Wanderer.” He looked at me and said, “The world is wide, and we are young. Let’s go get lost to find ourselves.”

What was supposed to be a day’s escape turned into a week of spontaneity. We slept under the stars, got lost more times than I can count, sang at the top of our lungs to songs we barely knew the lyrics to, and shared stories that made us laugh until our stomachs hurt. The journey didn’t just lighten the load I was carrying back then; it showed me the value of friendship, freedom, and living in the moment. That was Mark, a tornado of spontaneity, pulling you into an adventure you never knew you needed.

Yet, despite his love for adventure, Mark also had a calmness about him that was almost infectious. He had an uncanny ability to quiet the storm inside you with just a few words or a reassuring smile. He was my confidante, the one I could call at 2 AM to discuss life’s quandaries or the latest episode of a TV show we were both hooked on. He knew when to offer advice and when to simply listen, offering silence as a refuge from the chaos of the world.

Mark, my dear friend, your passing leaves a void in our lives that can never be filled. Your laughter, your spirit of adventure, your comforting presence – they are now but cherished memories, echoes of a friendship that will continue to live on in my heart.

As we say our final goodbyes, we remember you not with tears of sadness but with smiles, recalling the joy and happiness you brought into our lives. We remember you as you were – a beautiful soul, an adventurer, a beacon of light in our sometimes-dark world.

In honor of Mark, let’s not dwell in the sorrow of his departure. Instead, let’s celebrate the life he lived and the person he was. Let’s remember his unquenchable thirst for life, his deep and resounding laughter, and his unwavering loyalty as a friend.

Mark, you were the echo in the forest, the breeze on a summer day, and now the whisper in our hearts, forever reminding us of the bond we shared. Though we part ways today, the footprints you left on our hearts will remain. You will be greatly missed, my dear friend. Rest in peace, until we meet again.

Thank you, Mark, for the memories, the adventures, and most importantly, your friendship. We love you and will remember you always.

IX. Conclusion

A. the impact of a heartfelt funeral speech.

A well-crafted and heartfelt funeral speech can have a profound impact on the audience, providing solace and comfort during a time of grief. By incorporating elements from famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s, John Cleese’s, and Oprah Winfrey’s, as well as drawing from short eulogy examples and funny eulogy examples, you can create a powerful tribute that captures the essence of the person’s life and character. A funeral speech that shares fond memories and celebrates the entire life of a loved one can be remembered as the best eulogy ever, leaving a lasting impression on those who hear it.

B. Final thoughts on honoring the memory of a loved one

Honoring the memory of a close friend or family member through a funeral speech is a significant responsibility. Writing a eulogy that strikes the perfect balance between paying tribute to the person’s life and acknowledging grief can be an emotional and challenging process. However, by focusing on the person’s life, their impact on others, and the fond memories shared, you can create a beautiful eulogy that truly honors their memory. Remember to draw inspiration from examples like Steve Jobs’ eulogy by Mona Simpson or Sonny Bono’s eulogy by Cher, and always speak from the heart. In doing so, you will not only pay tribute to your loved one but also provide hope, comfort, and healing to all those in attendance.

At MemoryCherish, we understand the importance of honoring your loved one’s memory with a heartfelt and professionally crafted eulogy. Our team of experienced writers is dedicated to helping you create a beautiful tribute that captures the essence of the person’s life, character, and the fond memories shared. Let MemoryCherish be your partner in honoring your loved one’s memory with a professionally crafted eulogy. Reach out to us today and let us help you create a touching tribute that celebrates their life and provides comfort to those in attendance.

What makes the best eulogy?

The best eulogy is one that captures the essence of the person’s life, character, and impact on others while providing comfort to those in attendance. Key elements of the best eulogy include:

Authenticity: Speak from the heart and share genuine emotions and experiences.
Personal anecdotes: Share stories that highlight the person’s personality, values, and relationships.
Balance: Strike a balance between honoring the person’s life and acknowledging grief.
Positive aspects: Focus on the positive aspects of the deceased’s life, including accomplishments, passions, and happy memories.
Emotional connection: Establish an emotional connection with the audience by using descriptive language and conveying empathy.
Organization: Structure the eulogy with a clear beginning, middle, and end to guide the audience through the person’s life and experiences.

What is the best speech for a funeral?

The best speech for a funeral is one that pays tribute to the deceased while offering comfort and solace to the grieving family and friends. This can be achieved by:

Sharing personal stories, anecdotes, and memories of the person.
Focusing on the positive aspects of their life and the impact they had on others.
Acknowledging the grief and loss felt by those in attendance.
Using appropriate humor and light moments to provide relief and healing.
Ensuring the speech is concise, well-organized, and delivered with sincerity and emotion.

What is the best closing line for a eulogy?

The best closing line for a eulogy is one that leaves a lasting impression, encapsulates the person’s life and legacy, and offers hope or inspiration to the audience. Some examples of powerful closing lines are:

“May we carry [deceased’s name] memory in our hearts, allowing their spirit to live on through us.”
“As we say our final goodbye, let us remember [deceased’s name] life and the love they brought to all who knew them.”
“In the words of [deceased’s name], ‘Live fully, love deeply, and make a difference.’ Let us honor their memory by following this guiding principle.”
“Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find solace in the beautiful memories of [deceased’s name] and the impact they had on our lives.”

Choose a closing line that reflects the person’s character and values, and leaves the audience with a sense of comfort and inspiration.

Writing a eulogy during this difficult time is hard. Our professional writers are here to help you capture your loved one’s essence and life beautifully.

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10 Touching Template Eulogy Examples to Honor Your Loved One’s Memory

Discover the perfect words to honor your loved one’s memory with our collection of 10 touching template eulogy examples. This heartfelt guide will provide you with the inspiration and guidance needed to craft a meaningful tribute that offers comfort and solace to family and friends during this difficult time.

Mastering the Art of Eulogy Endings: 10 Powerful Examples to Inspire You

Uncover the secrets to mastering the art of eulogy endings in our latest blog post, where we share 10 powerful examples to inspire you as you create a touching and memorable tribute to your loved one, providing comfort and closure to all who mourn.

What's the best way to honor your loved one?

What to Say at a Funeral: Plan the Perfect Memorial Speech

Introduction

Speaking at a funeral is a profound honor, yet it comes with a weight of responsibility. It’s a moment to express grief, celebrate life, and offer comfort to others in mourning, all within a few heartfelt minutes.

In facing this daunting task, you might be wondering how to craft a speech that resonates deeply and brings solace. The core promise of this article is to guide you through creating a speech that not only honors the departed but also provides comfort to those left behind.

In this article, you will learn:

The essential elements that make a funeral speech touching and memorable.
Strategies to convey empathy and solace through your words.
Practical tips for both preparing and delivering your speech with poise.

As we delve into the nuances of this sensitive topic, remember that your words have the power to heal and bring closure.

Understanding the Importance of a Funeral Speech

A funeral speech is more than just a mere formality; it’s a powerful vehicle for expressing collective grief and celebrating a unique life. This is a moment where words take on a profound significance, offering a semblance of comfort in the face of loss and helping those gathered to begin the healing process.

Funeral speeches serve as a bridge that connects the audience with the essence of the person who has passed. They remind us of the impact the deceased had on our lives, their values, and the memories we cherish. It’s an opportunity to articulate the unsaid, to give voice to our feelings, and to acknowledge our shared loss in a deeply personal yet universal way.

In crafting your speech, you’re not only paying tribute to the departed but also providing a crucial part of the journey towards closure for everyone present.

Key Elements to Include in a Funeral Speech

Creating a meaningful funeral speech involves weaving together several key elements that resonate with your audience and honor the memory of the departed. Here are some crucial components to consider:

Personal Anecdotes and Memories: Share specific stories or memories that highlight the character and life of the deceased. These personal touches not only bring the speech to life but also help listeners connect and remember their loved ones in a more vivid way.
Acknowledging the Grief: It’s important to recognize the pain and loss felt by those present. Empathize with the audience’s grief, showing that it’s okay to mourn and that they are not alone in their feelings.
Celebrating Their Life: While a funeral is a time of mourning, it is also a time to celebrate the life that was lived. Highlight their achievements, passions, and the positive impact they had on others. This can provide a sense of joy and gratitude amidst the sorrow.
Comforting Words: Offer words of comfort and hope. This could be through a favorite quote of the deceased, a poem, or simply your heartfelt wishes for peace and healing for those who are grieving.

Crafting the Right Tone: Balancing Grief and Celebration

Finding the right tone for a funeral speech is a delicate balance. It’s about respecting the solemnity of the occasion while also celebrating the life that was lived. Here’s how you can achieve this balance:

Respectful and Reflective: Begin with a tone that acknowledges the loss and the pain it brings. It’s important to show respect for the gravity of the moment and the feelings of those in mourning.
Uplifting and Hopeful: As you progress, gradually introduce more uplifting elements. Share stories or attributes of the deceased that brought joy and laughter. This shift helps to lighten the mood and reminds the audience of the cherished moments they had with their loved one.
Inclusive and Unifying: Use language that brings people together. Phrases like “we remember,” “we cherish,” and “we celebrate” help to create a sense of community and shared experience, which is comforting in times of grief.
Genuine and Personal: Above all, be sincere. Speak from the heart. Your genuine emotions and personal connection with the deceased will naturally guide the tone of your speech.

Structuring Your Funeral Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a well-structured funeral speech can help convey your message clearly and effectively. Here’s a simple guide to help you structure your speech:

Opening with Respect: Start your speech by acknowledging the solemnity of the occasion and the shared sense of loss. A respectful opening sets the appropriate tone for the rest of your speech.
Introducing Yourself: Briefly introduce yourself and your relationship with the deceased. This helps the audience connect with you and understand your perspective.
Sharing Memories: Transition to sharing personal anecdotes and memories of the deceased. These stories should reflect their character, life, and the impact they had on those around them.
Acknowledging the Grief: It’s important to recognize and empathize with the collective grief of the audience. This shows that you share in their sorrow and are there to support each other.
Celebrating the Life: Shift the focus to celebrating the life of the deceased. Highlight their achievements, passions, and the joy they brought into the lives of others.
Concluding with Comfort and Hope: End your speech on a comforting note. Offer words of consolation, a hopeful message, or a meaningful quote that resonates with the sentiment of the day.
A Moment of Reflection: Consider concluding with a moment of silence or a brief reflective pause, allowing the audience to privately cherish their memories of the departed.

We’re here to help you plan a funeral, virtual memorial or facilitate a livestreaming option.

We’ll guide you through the options.

We’ll answer your questions.

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Practical Tips for Preparing Your Memorial Speech

Crafting a funeral speech can be challenging, but with the right approach and preparation, you can create a meaningful tribute. Here are some practical tips to help you prepare your speech:

Gather Your Thoughts: Take time to reflect on your relationship with the deceased and the memories you shared. Jot down notes about significant moments, qualities you admired, and the impact they had on your life.
Consult with Others: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends and family of the deceased for additional insights or stories. This can help you paint a fuller picture of their life and character.
Write and Organize Your Speech: Using the structure outlined earlier, start drafting your speech. Organize your thoughts and stories in a coherent manner, ensuring a natural flow from beginning to end.
Rehearse Your Speech: Practice delivering your speech several times. This helps you become more familiar with the content and reduces the likelihood of being overly emotional on the day.
Manage Your Emotions: It’s natural to feel emotional while delivering a funeral speech. If you feel overwhelmed, pause for a moment, take a deep breath, and continue when you’re ready. Remember, it’s okay to show emotion.
Seek Feedback: If possible, rehearse in front of a trusted friend or family member and ask for their feedback. This can help you refine your speech and delivery.
Prepare for the Setting: Familiarize yourself with the venue and any equipment you might need, such as a microphone or stand. This ensures you’re comfortable and prepared on the day of the funeral.

Tips for Speaking at a Virtual Memorial or Celebration of Life

Speaking at a virtual memorial requires some adjustments to the traditional approach.

Here are tips to ensure your speech is impactful, even in a digital format:

Embrace the Technology: Familiarize yourself with the virtual platform being used. Test your microphone, camera, and internet connection in advance to avoid technical issues during the memorial.
Create a Suitable Environment: Choose a quiet and well-lit space to deliver your speech. A simple, respectful background can help minimize distractions for the audience. Ensure good facial lighting, and no strong lights like windows or lamps directly behind you that will silhouette your face. Refer to our resource article for more about this topic.
Engage the Virtual Audience: Make eye contact with the camera to create a sense of connection with your online audience. Speak clearly and at a measured pace to ensure your words are easily understood.
Keep It Concise: Attention spans can be shorter in a virtual setting. Aim to deliver a concise yet meaningful speech, focusing on the most significant points and memories.
Consider your Device: If using a mobile phone, tilt your phone to the horizontal position so that your video fills up the view. It is also recommended that you place your device so that it is at a 45-degree angle so the camera is directly facing you, not on an angle. The device should be on a tripod or firmly set on a table or desk to prevent shaking.
Be Mindful of Time Zones: If attendees are joining from different time zones, be conscious of this in your speech timing and references to time-sensitive aspects like morning or evening.
Provide Emotional Support Digitally: Since physical comfort is not possible, be extra expressive in your words and tone to convey empathy and support to the virtual attendees.

Do’s and Don’ts When Speaking at a Funeral

When delivering a funeral speech, it’s crucial to be mindful of certain do’s and don’ts to ensure your words are appropriate and comforting. Here are some guidelines to consider:

Do’s:

Be Sincere: Speak from the heart. Genuine emotions and sincerity are always appreciated and can be very comforting.
Keep It Appropriate: Share stories and anecdotes that are suitable for all attendees, including children and elders.
Respect the Deceased’s Beliefs and Values: Ensure your speech aligns with the beliefs and values of the deceased, especially when touching on spiritual or religious themes.
Offer Comfort: Use your words to offer solace to the bereaved, acknowledging their pain and offering hope and comfort.

Don’ts:

Avoid Controversy: Stay away from topics that could be contentious or stir up negative emotions.
Don’t Speak Too Long: Keep your speech concise. A lengthy speech can be hard for grieving attendees.
Avoid Clichés: Try to avoid overused phrases or clichés. Personalized sentiments are more impactful.
Don’t Forget to Prepare: Even if you’re comfortable speaking publicly, it’s important to prepare and practice your speech to ensure it conveys your message effectively.

Delivering a speech at a funeral is a significant and sensitive task. Through this article, we’ve explored the essential elements of a meaningful funeral speech, from crafting the right tone to structuring your message and preparing effectively, even in a virtual setting. We’ve also navigated the do’s and don’ts to ensure your words honor the deceased and bring comfort to the bereaved.

To recap, remember to:

Incorporate personal memories and acknowledge the shared grief.
Celebrate the life of the departed while offering words of solace.
Prepare and practice your speech, respecting the setting, whether in-person or virtual.

As you embark on this heartfelt journey, remember that your speech is a powerful tool for healing and remembrance.

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A Moving Best Friend Eulogy

It is hard to read this heartfelt eulogy for a best friend without it bringing a tear to your eye. Written for us by Jelena about her dear friend who died at the young age of 25, it is a moving tribute to a precious friendship.

Use it as an inspiration if you need to write one for a beloved friend of your own. We would like to thank Jelena for sharing this deeply personal eulogy with us, and hope it serves as a permanent memorial to a special person.

Eulogy for Layla, a Precious Friend by Jelena

Artwork of a beautiful princess holding a jar, to illustrate the loss of a precious friend.

For Layla, the mystery girl...

It has been hard writing these lines, because I couldn't find the exact words to describe our relationship and all the feelings involved in it. Somehow, it was easier to just sit and cry in the dark than to do this at last. But when you promise something...

Layla was born on January 16th, 1985 in the city of Umag, Croatia. The sea breeze, a smell of olives and fish, quality wine and lots of Eric Clapton songs made her dad call her Layla. He was a drummer in a famous rock band. Her mum, Liliana, was a painter, forever in love with mystery and the Arts.

Their explosive relationship changed into smooth and calm just after the baby was born. They poured all their energy and love into their little princess. Layla grew up having everything she wanted and even though she was the only child, somehow she never got spoiled, but instead had wonderful manners and was a really lovely girl.

I met her in college. I remember the first day we saw each other for the first time.

She stood in the hall all alone, but she was magical. Not because she looked like an Arabic princess from ancient legends, wearing all black and with tons of silver jewelry, and with a cloud of wild black curly hair around her face, but because she had that aura... She was glowing from the inside, radiant blue but mysteriously dark at the same time....We stood speechless, just looking at each other.

And then she spoke, four simple words, but it felt like a jar of honey was being poured over my head – "Hi, I am Layla."

I knew she would be my best friend, and I wasn't mistaken.

For the next couple of years, we shared everything that two girlfriends can share. For her, I was the person she turned to when things got rough. I knew her secrets, desires, fears, silly crushes and serious relationship problems. She was the same for me. We had no secrets, never lied to each other, were always brutally honest and full of respect. She let me into her inner world, into her mind and deepest corners of her soul. So did I.

That's why I was so shocked to find out she had lung cancer and wasn't planning to tell me about it. I heard it from another close friend of ours, and I was so angry and hurt at first. Luckily, I soon realized I was being selfish and that she needed my support without any questions asked. The fight had begun.

Layla dropped out of college to begin her treatments. We talked on Skype for hours after every chemotherapy she had. It was painful for her and me both, because I couldn't hold her hand and she couldn't feel my presence over the wire.

All I could do was keep saying a kind of a mantra, “I feel you honey, I'm here for you, you can do it, I believe in you.”

It went on like that for four long years, positive thoughts, encouragements, comforting...up until her final surgery. She called me the night before, and asked me if I thought she was going to make it. Being 'the best friend' that I was, I needed to be honest. She demanded it. So I told her that I would support any decision she made. If she wanted to give up, that was OK, and if she wanted to keep fighting, even better. I would accept her decision, and she didn't have to worry about me.

I swear I could hear the sound of relief in her voice after that.

The procedure went above all expectations, she recovered smoothly and fast enough. That day she came to my hometown I'll never forget. She looked like she was totally accepting of her fate. My Layla had decided it was time to give up and give herself some peace.

She had some important things to say to me, among other stuff, so she began with how proud she was of me, and happy to see that I had changed. She knew I would be a much stronger person when our story came to an end, and the end was near. Also, I received a kind of a task to fulfil for her.

“You should write a letter to me, to throw out all those feelings - it is never good to keep them inside. You'll be angry, sad, confused, mad, happy, crazy - you'll be a living mess. Then get a wooden box and put those papers along with all our other stuff, concert tickets, love letters, drawings, photos, jewelry, bags of exotic tea and all other things you can remember at that point. Take the box to my grave and burn it, then spread the ashes over my secret spot at the seaside...”, she said in one long breath.

I just sat there and cried in silence. “Promise me”, she said. So I made that promise.

Layla passed away in her sleep, at the beginning of June, only a month after our agreement. I knew the moment it happened, because she called me the night before, and even though she didn't say it out loud, I knew it was her last goodbye.

I know she's in a better place now, without illness and pain, but I still miss her terribly. Her departure did made me stronger, but it also made me more emotional and vulnerable than I ever was.

Today, I'm standing in front of you, our dear friends, Layla's loving family and loved ones, reading these words with deep sadness in my heart, but trying to make you all feel honored and special for knowing the amazing person that Layla was.

She showed us that no matter how hard life can be, we must all learn from it every day and embrace every moment of it, because we never know how or when it's gonna end.

Finally, I must thank you my dear Layla, for having such an impact on my life, and making it rich with love, friendship and the mystery I needed so much. You always said that only the sky's the limit, so I choose to believe that you just went to research it before me.

Have a great journey up there honey, I'm sure we'll meet again. I love you.

Thanks again to Jelena for this lovely eulogy. Although we are offering it as a 'sample eulogy for a friend' to help you write your own, it is about a real person and we hope it will be a fitting memorial to her memory.

Funeral Speech Guidelines

Eulogy Examples for a Father

Eulogy for a Grandmother

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Hundreds line streets for funeral of Southport stabbing victim Elsie Dot Stancombe

Seven-year-old ’truly unforgettable’, family say as merseyside community pay respects, article bookmarked.

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The Southport community gathered for the funeral of the young girls killed in the Southport stabbings, described as an “extraordinary girl” who brought “immeasurable joy” to those around her.

Hundreds lined the pink ribbon-adorned streets of Southport to remember seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe, who her grieving family said was a “truly unforgettable” girl who enjoyed her life with “determination, persistence, love and kindness”.

A procession led by two white horses adorned with colourful feathers arrived at St John’s Church in Birkdale, near Southport, on Friday morning, for a special day to commemmorate her life.

A group in cheerleader outfits - one of Elsie’s largest passions - were pictured in tears as they awaited her funeral procession in Birkdale.

Hundreds gathered as the cortege approached St John’s Church

Ambulance staff and police officers also lined the streets to pay their respects to the seven-year-old described by her family in a statement released on Friday as an “amazing little girl” with the ability to “light up any room that she entered, she was truly unforgettable”.

The streets were decorated with pink ribbons, and the church entrance with a pink carpet and balloon arch, with bubbles in the air as Elsie’s coffin was carried inside to the sound of songs including Fleetwood Mac’s Songbird.

The church was decorated with pink ribbons, pastel-coloured flowers, and a screen with an illustration of a dancer welcoming the mourners.

Ibrahim Hussein, the imam of Southport mosque, which was damaged during disorder the night after Elsie’s death, attended the funeral alongside hundreds of others. Elsie’s family dog, Bobby, also watched on as her coffin entered the church.

Emily Ridgeway, performing a reading called Elsie Dot Stancombe by Mum and Dad, said: “Elsie’s proudest moment came at a time when she found out she was being given the title of big sister.”

Elsie’s family released a new photo showing the “four best friends” grinning together

The reading added that Elsie’s legacy “continues here on earth”.

This was followed by her primary school teacher, Ms Katie Sykes, who reflected on Elsie before reading out memories from her classmates. “Elsie was always teaching me when we played together, Elsie loved to make me laugh,” one classmate said.

Ms Sykes recalled that Elsie would look out every day to see her father, who works for Royal Mail, delivering the post for her school, proudly telling her fellow pupils that it was her dad.

Deputy chief constable of Merseyside Police Chris Green then spoke, saying he felt “extremely privileged to celebrate her life”.

Later, a rendition of Love Story by Taylor Swift was performed with a singer, pianist and guitarist, as the family stood up to leave the church and the coffin was carried out.

After the service, the procession passed through the floral tribute site outside Southport’s Atkinson arts centre.

Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, and Bebe King, six, were also killed after being attacked while attending a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.

Eight other children and two adults were injured in the attack, but all have now been released from hospital.

Elsie’s is the final funeral of the three and is taking place at St John’s Church in Birkdale, near Southport, with the service also being screened at church hall and Liverpool Road Methodist Church for others to pay their respects.

The carriage awaited outside while the funeral was ongoing

Her coffin, wrapped in colourful fabric and with a large cuddly toy, was carried into the church just before 10am this morning.

The family requested that people don’t wear black for the service, and instead opt for pastel or bright colours.

In a statement, Elsie’s family said she “loved to dance” and was a “devoted ‘Swiftie’”, adding that she was “up for anything and gave every activity a go”.

She was a passionate cheerleader, a keen reader, and had completed a 3k run and 10k charity walk to raise money for her local hospice. “Everything she did she gave 100 per cent and would never give up,” the family said.

A black-and-white photo of the family was released alongside the statement, showing Elsie grinning in front of her happy parents, as her young sister pulls faces in her dad’s arms.

“Our family affirmation is ‘as long as you try your best, enjoy yourself and have fun, nothing else matters’,” the statement continued.

“‘We are the four best friends in the whole wide world’ – and that mantra will remain with us for the rest of our lives, sound in the knowledge that Elsie is here with us and forever will be in our hearts.

18-year-old Axel Rudakubana was arrested at the scene and has been charged with the murders of the three girls, the attempted murder of 10 others, and possession of a kitchen knife with a curved blade.

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Condolences & What To Say

What to Say at a Funeral Service or Wake: 15+ Ideas

Updated 12/27/2022

Published 12/12/2019

Sam Tetrault, BA in English

Contributing writer

Death can leave us at a loss for words. Use this guide to know what to say at a funeral, from addressing family and friends, to tips for giving a speech.

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

Attending a funeral isn’t always easy. Funerals are a chance for the family to come together to mourn and remember a loved one. Paying your respects is a way to show your support. However, feeling unsure of the words to say at a funeral is a common experience. How do you approach someone who’s mourning a loss? How do you avoid saying the wrong thing?

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Jump ahead to these sections:

What to say if your loved one died, what should you avoid saying at a funeral, what to say to close family and friends at their loved one’s funeral, what to say to acquaintances, colleagues, or clients at their loved one’s funeral, what to say at a funeral visitation or wake.

Quick Tips for Public Speaking at a Funeral

Funeral Speech Examples

These answers aren’t always straightforward. Offering your condolences is an integral part of the funeral process, but it’s also one of the hardest things to do comfortably. Understanding proper funeral etiquette goes a long way towards helping you know what to say. The better prepared you are, the easier it is to find those perfect words of sympathy.

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Tips on preparing a speech if your loved one died with an image of roses in the background

If you’re close to the deceased, you might find yourself the center of attention at the funeral. Guests usually reach out to the close family to offer words of kindness and support, but these aren’t always easy to handle.

What do you say if your loved one died? How do you avoid being overcome with emotion? Because this is often a challenge, follow these tips below:

Practice makes perfect - Don’t be afraid to practice what you’ll say in advance. Practice with yourself and with other close family members. The more you say what you’ve prepared, the easier it will be.
Make sure you have the right tech for online guests - If you chose to use a virtual funeral using a service like GatheringUs , you can still speak to your online guests. Coordinate with your planning team and ensure you have the right AV equipment.
Keep it short and sweet - Avoid the pressure to say more than you need to. Keep your comments quick and to the point.
Set boundaries - It’s okay to have boundaries about what you’re willing to talk about. You don’t have to answer any uncomfortable questions or say more than you feel comfortable with.
Find your support system - Lean on close friends and family at the funeral for support. It’s okay to distance yourself from those you don’t wish to speak with right now. This is your time to grieve.

Tip: Figuring out what to say is just one of the many challenges you can face when someone you love dies. Our post-loss checklist can help you face and overcome those challenges, whether they're legal, financial, or personal.

Examples of what to say

Since words aren’t always easy to find, it helps to have a few examples of what to say. Again, short and simple is almost always best. Here is what to say to your friends and family if your close loved one died.

This is a difficult loss. I was very close to [Name].
[Name] a large part of my life. I’ll never forget their kindness.
[Name] will be missed by the entire family.
We are all so sorry for this loss. [Name] was loved by many.

It’s important to realize that not everything is appropriate for a funeral. Some phrases can do more harm than good, even if they’re coming from a kind place. Some outdated phrases might be well-intentioned, but they send the wrong message to friends and family in need. While it’s understandably difficult to find the right words to say, the wrong comments only make matters worse.

With that in mind, what should you avoid saying at a funeral? Anything that could be seen as making light of the situation or poking blame should be avoided at all costs. You never want to place blame on the deceased, their family, or anyone else associated with the funeral. No matter the circumstances around the death of this person, you should be aware of the power of your words.

Examples of what not to say

What phrases should always be avoided? Though there are many variations on these below, you’d be surprised how common they are. It doesn’t take much thinking to recognize why these are completely unacceptable to say to a grieving individual, no matter how much time has passed since the loss.

It could always be worse.
I’m not surprised they died.
It was fate/destiny.
His/her death was a part of God’s plan.
Everything happens for a reason.
It was his/her time.
Death is a part of the circle of life. It’s only natural.
You still have it better than others.
It was harder when I lost my own loved one.
You’ll get over this soon.
You’re still young.

In general, always avoid any phrases like “it’s better…” or “at least…” since these make unfair comparisons. There’s no way to measure loss. You should never compare your own experiences to someone else’s, no matter how hard these were for you. Similarly, never suggest that someone mourning should feel any differently. Grief takes many forms, and it’s okay to process these feelings in your own way.

When in doubt, use these phrases below. You never want to say anything that could be taken the wrong way. When in doubt, it’s best to keep your response simple. There’s never anything wrong with saying you’re sorry for someone’s loss. Above all, people just want to be heard and understood. You don’t need to make any bold claims or comparisons.

Tips on what to say to someone who lost a loved one

If you’re attending the funeral to support friends and family in their time of need, it’s a good idea to give thought to what you plan to say. Offering sympathy to those you’re close to might mean the world to them. Yet, knowing what to say to someone who lost a parent or a close relative is difficult.

If you haven’t experienced a similar loss for yourself, you might have a hard time understanding what he or she is going through. Follow these tips to stay courteous and respectful:

Practice your tone - Again, this is a situation where practice makes perfect. Aside from practicing what you’ll say, practice your tone. You want to make sure you sound sincere but not overly emotional. An even tone is ideal.
Don’t overly sympathize - If you’ve never experienced this type of loss, don’t try to compare your situation to someone else’s. Keep the focus of your sympathy messages on them.
Avoid the afterlife - Even if you know someone’s religious background, it’s best to avoid talk of the afterlife in what you say. That means avoiding phrases like “he’s in a better place” or “she’s in heaven now.” Again, limit your comments to the person you’re speaking to and not on what’s happened to the deceased.
Don’t make light of the situation - Keep from telling jokes or making light of the situation. Grief affects everyone differently, and everyone is entitled to their own feelings.
Give a gift - If you’re not good at finding the right words, offer a gift instead. Funeral flowers , a sympathy gift basket , or other kind gestures are other ways to be respectful.
Let them grieve - Last but not least, let your friend or family member know it’s okay to grieve. Be the emotional support they need.

It’s best to have your best speech filter on when attending a funeral. Be mindful of your words and how they come across. When in doubt, say one of these sympathy messages below.

I’m sorry for your loss.
[Name] was a loved community member. We will all miss them.
Your family is in my thoughts and prayers at this time.
Let me know if you need anything right now. I’m here for you.
I have fond memories of your [relationship to the deceased].

What do you say when you’re not very close to someone who lost a loved one? If your acquaintance, colleague, client, or other relation recently suffered a loss, it is polite to offer sympathy. Since you don’t know this person well, keep things simple. You don’t want to overstep.

Fumbling over your words isn’t uncommon when you’re faced with someone else’s grief. These tips will guide you in being respectful and kind:

Timing matters - Your condolences should be given at the time that’s best for the individual, not you. If you wish to say something to a coworker, for example, the end of the day is usually best.
Don’t bring it up yourself - If you know someone recently suffered a loss, saying something unprompted might bring up painful feelings for that person. If you decide to check in with their wellbeing, do so carefully.
Join with others - If you don’t know the person very well, it might be better to offer sympathy in a communal way. For an office, having everyone sign a card is a gentle way to give support. The recipient still knows everyone is thinking of them in their time of need.

It’s better to say something than to avoid saying anything. Though it might be uncomfortable, don’t let these feelings get in the way of this person’s grief. Here are some polite things to say when the timing is right:

“I’m sorry for your loss.”
“My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.”
“Is there any way I can help?”

At a funeral visitation or wake, the body is typically present. In many cultures, a visitation or wake is a chance to pay initial respects to the family and say goodbye to the deceased. However, it can be confusing to know what to say. Wakes are an opportunity to be present in the moment, using your words to bring positivity and compassion.

There are many different types of funeral visitations or wakes. In some cultures, these are informal events that take place inside the home of the deceased. These are usually only open to close friends and family. If you’re invited to a home wake, be sure to deliver your condolences briefly and avoid overstaying your welcome.

Additionally, you might be invited to a visitation before a funeral. This is usually more formal than a wake, and the family will be present. Many funerals also include a receiving line in which you greet each member of the immediate family directly before visiting with the deceased. All of these are somber events, so you should be prepared with appropriate ways to pay respects.

What should you say when offering condolences at a wake? While your exact words might depend on your relationship with the deceased and his or her family, there are a lot of ways to show respect. When paired with flowers, a sympathy card, or other condolence gifts, these truly show how much you care.

“While I wish we were here under different circumstances, I’m honored to be present here today with your family.”
“You’ve organized a very special wake in honor of [Name]. I know how much they meant to you. I’m so sorry for your loss.”
“You’ve done a great job putting together this wake in honor of your loved one. Is there anything I can help you with? I’m always here for you.”
“I just wanted to remind you how much I care for you. [Name] was an amazing person, and I’ll never forget them.”
“It’s clear just how loved [Name] was. Their loss will be felt by all.”
“I can’t begin to express how sorry I am to hear about your loss. Please know I’m here for you today and always. If there’s anything you need, don’t hesitate to reach out.”
“Even though I didn’t know [Name] very well, I know how much they meant to you. I’m so sorry for your loss.”

Quick Tips for Public Speaking at a Funeral

Tips for public speaking at a funeral with an image of mountains int he background

It’s common for the family to ask if any guests wish to speak at the funeral. Speaking at a funeral is a great way to express your feelings about the loss of a loved one, particularly if you were close to this person.

You also might give a speech if you’re close to a family member of the deceased. He or she might ask you to speak on their behalf or to talk about their relationship with their loved one. However, public speaking when emotions are running high isn’t always easy.

No matter your comfort level with talking in front of others, this is an intimidating situation. You want to handle the situation with grace and confidence, even if you have to fake it until you make it. These tips will help you with public speaking at a funeral.

1. Write what you’ll say in advance

The best way to prepare is to write what you want to say in advance. For this, learn how to write a eulogy . Eulogies are a type of praise honoring someone who’s passed away. By writing a eulogy or other speech, you make sure you don’t leave anything out during the delivery.

While writing down your speech is a great idea, avoid reading directly from the paper. Jotting down notes or practicing in advance gives you more confidence.

2. Tell a story

When in doubt, tell a story. As humans, we communicate through stories. This is a sure way to gain the audience’s attention while expressing something significant about the deceased.

For example, you might share how the deceased helped you in a time of need or a special trip you took together. Either way, keep the focus on the deceased and the family.

3. Don’t speak for too long

While a speech is an amazing way to pay respects to a loved one, you don’t want to take too long. The ideal time frame for a funeral speech is between three and five minutes. Anything more than that risks losing the audience’s attention.

You also don’t want to take away from the rest of the service or anyone else's opportunity to say a few words.

4. Do calming exercises

Public speaking is intimidating under the best of circumstances. When also dealing with a loss, it’s hard to stop feeling overwhelmed. If possible, perform calming exercises before speaking. These put you in the right frame of mind to speak. Here are some tips to help you feel calm and help you to hold back unwanted tears :

Take deep breaths
Rely on a friend or family member for support
Drink water
Go for a short walk in the hallway or nearby

5. Address the family

When giving your speech, make sure you’re addressing the family. Speak to the front row. These are the ones who were closest to the deceased, and they’re the ones who listen the most attentively.

When addressing someone directly, such as a close friend or family member, look at them. This makes your speech much more personal.

Giving a speech at a funeral can be intimidating, especially if you’ve never given one before. Using a funeral speech example as inspiration can help you approach this challenge with ease. The tribute for every speech has a basic flow, and it doesn’t have to be perfect. The most important thing is that your funeral speech comes from the heart.

Below, you’ll find funeral speech examples for a variety of situations. If you’ve been given the honor to speak at a funeral, don’t stress about finding the “right” thing to say. The words are inside you already, and you just have to speak from your heart.

For a parent’s funeral

For anyone who doesn’t know me yet, I am Johnathan’s daughter, Mandy. Thank you for joining me today to say goodbye to my dad. From my earliest days, my dad was one of my best friends. He was the loudest one cheering me on at my tennis tournaments, and he was the person I always looked to for guidance. His kind of love was unconditional. Even in the bad times, he knew that a hug and a warm cup of tea had the power to turn the whole day around.

Though I like to think I’m the favorite child, I know my dad didn’t play favorites. He loved me and my sisters equally, and holidays will never be the same now that he’s gone. As you know, my dad had a love of 80s rock music that couldn’t be beat. In conclusion, I wanted to read some of his favorite Queen lyrics in his honor. Thank you for listening.

For a grandparent’s funeral

Today, I’m honored to celebrate the life of my grandpa, Abe, though we all knew him as “Poppy.” Born in 1935, he was always a storyteller. Whether he was entertaining his uncles in his early childhood or his buddies at college, he was never caught without something to say. He always said that’s how he won over Grandma—with a story.

Above all, Poppy was a family man. He knew it was important to put family first in all things, and this is a lesson I hope to carry with me for the rest of my own days. A devoted husband, father, and friend, there’s no one I admire more than my grandpa. His life with Gran was inspirational, and I feel relief knowing he’s finally at peace after a long battle with cancer. Family dinners might never be the same, but he’ll always be remembered. Here’s to you, Poppy!

For a partner or spouse’s funeral

As most of you know, my name is Janice. I met Scott, my husband, over two decades ago. I had just moved to Toronto, and he was one of the first people I met at my new apartment complex. I’ll never forget him showing me around the city for the first time. We were married within the very same year, and I count my blessings for meeting him every day.

We had 15 years of marriage together, and we shared so much love. He gave me two beautiful children, and they love him just as much as me. Scott and I might not have gotten our entire lives together, but the time we did have was so worthwhile. Being his wife made me the luckiest woman in the world. Though things will never be the same, I see him living on through the resilience of his children and the kindness of our friends and family. Thank you for being here with me to celebrate his life.

For a sibling’s funeral

When asked about my brother, Dylan, I always say he has a sixth sense. Even as a child, he always knew when I was having an off day or when he could press me even farther with his teasing. I have a vivid memory of him around 13 years old stopping a neighborhood game to invite one of more quiet kids to hang out with them. This was a simple gesture, but it just goes to show how observant he was.

Even as an adult, Dylan and I always had a connection. My only brother, he was always just a phone call away for me or anyone else in the family. I’ll miss my brother like I miss the summer sun. Though it can’t stay forever, I can always feel its warmth. A fearless, kind man, I am so thankful to have been blessed with him in my life.

For a child’s funeral

Though I’m sure we all wish we were gathering today under different circumstances, thank you for being here. My name is Susan, and I’m Jamie’s aunt. I’ll be speaking on behalf of my brother, James, and his wife, Melissa. I’ll never forget the day my brother called to let me know Melissa was pregnant with Jamie. I knew she was a special blessing right from that moment.

Once Jamie was here, she instantly brought light to our lives. She was always a happy baby, and her smile is something we’ll never forget. Endeared to everyone who met her, she was an absolute angel. Though her life was short, her warmth was felt by all. Even when she and her parents spent so many days at the hospital, she never once wavered in her courage. I invite anyone who wishes to share some of your favorite memories of Jamie with us all.

For a best friend’s funeral

Hi all, thank you for coming today. My name is Jessica, and I’ve been friends with Kelly since I first moved to her neighborhood in kindergarten. We lived just a few houses apart, and we must have spent almost every day together from elementary to high school. When I think of Kelly, I think of someone who loved to explore and laugh. Whether we were sneaking out after curfew or hosting an infamous movie night, Kelly was my partner in crime for everything.

More than an adventure-seeker, Kelly was also a generous soul. I could always count on her to drop everything to help anyone in need, whether it’s a close friend or someone she just met. She put her family first, and she knew what really mattered most in life. Though I’m sad to have lost my best friend, I am happy to have been blessed with so many years by her side. I know she’ll always be with me, and I hope I make her proud. Thank you.

For a colleague’s funeral

Today, we gather to honor our dear College Louie. We were all saddened to hear of his passing last month. The community has lost a warm, hard-working individual. Many of us here counted Louie amongst our friends and with good reason. Quick to offer his help, knowledge, or a funny quip, Louie was a friend to all.

At our company, Louie served with compassion for over three decades. His work affected every department and level. As a leader, he fought for innovation and change without putting others down. In his honor, we will be dedicated a special volunteer program each year towards a cause he cared greatly about: education. Let’s all remember Louie’s hard work and what he meant to our team.

Discover the Right Words of Sympathy

While it might seem insignificant, how you express your sympathy to those you love really matters. Those words and gestures might mean everything to them in their time of need. Yet, finding the right words to say isn’t always easy. Funerals are often uncomfortable or even awkward because of this.

These events don’t have to be this way. But, you’ll never be in the dark about what to say if you use these tips and tricks above.

Have you given much thought to your own end-of-life planning ? There are tons of options, from having a virtual funeral service to turning ashes into a cremation diamond . Thinking about how you’d like to be remembered might inspire you to offer kind and generous condolences to your loved ones when they need it.

Post-loss tip: If you are the executor for a deceased loved one, the emotional and technical aspects of handling their unfinished business can be overwhelming without a way to organize your process. We have a post-loss checklist that will help you ensure that your loved one's family, estate, and other affairs are taken care of.

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Members of the Kennedy family denounce RFK Jr.'s decision to endorse Trump

Image: 2024 Democratic National Convention: Day 2 chicago dnc Jack Schlossberg political politics

WASHINGTON — Multiple members of the Kennedy family denounced Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s decision to endorse former President Donald Trump, calling the move a "betrayal."

"We want an America filled with hope and bound together by a shared vision of a brighter future, a future defined by individual freedom, economic promise and national pride," said a statement signed by five of the former independent presidential candidate's siblings.

"We believe in Harris and Walz," the statement continued. "Our brother Bobby's decision to endorse Trump today is a betrayal of the values that our father and our family hold most dear. It is a sad ending to a sad story."

The statement includes signatures from Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, Courtney Kennedy, Kerry Kennedy, Chris Kennedy and Rory Kennedy.

Joe Kennedy III, a grandson of Robert F. Kennedy, reacted to the statement, sharing it on X and writing that it was "well said."

Separately, the former candidate's cousin Jack Schlossberg said that he has "never been less surprised in my life."

"Been saying it for over a year — RFKjr is for sale, works for Trump. Bedfellows and loving it," he posted to X. "Kamala Harris is for the people — the easiest decision of all time just got easier."

Schlossberg is the grandson of former President John F. Kennedy.

Many members of the Kennedy family have been publicly critical of the independent's presidential bid, instead vocalizing their support for first President Joe Biden and now Harris.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced on Friday that he would withdraw from the presidential race and back Trump. However, he said that he would only remove his name from the ballot in "about 10 battleground states where my presence would be a spoiler." He encouraged voters in states where he remains on the ballot to still support him.

"These are the principled causes that persuaded me to leave the Democratic Party and run as an independent, and now to throw my support to President Trump," he said during his Friday remarks. "The causes were: Free speech, the war in Ukraine, and the war on our children."

Harris campaign chair Jen O'Malley Dillon said in a statement that the Harris campaign is for "any American out there who is tired of Donald Trump and looking for a new way forward."

"Even if we do not agree on every issue, Kamala Harris knows there is more that unites us than divides us: respect for our rights, public safety, protecting our freedoms, and opportunity for all," she said in a bid to attract Kennedy supporters.

Megan Lebowitz is a politics reporter for NBC News.

Are late-running DNC speeches losing viewers? The ratings say no.

Former president Barack Obama delivers the keynote speech during the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Tuesday.

Throughout the week, prominent Democrats and media personalities have expressed fears that viewers are turning off the Democratic National Convention before keynote addresses begin each night.

On Monday, for example, President Joe Biden didn’t begin speaking until 11:28 p.m. Eastern, an hour when television viewership has historically tailed off.

But data released by the measurement service Nielsen shows that viewers have mostly been sticking around to see late-night addresses, including those given by former president Barack Obama on Tuesday and Gov. Tim Walz on Wednesday.

Approximately 19 million of the 20 million people who watched the convention Monday night stuck around for Biden’s speech, while the audience for Obama’s speech - 21.9 million - actually exceeded the number of people who watched from 10 p.m. to 11:45 p.m.

Still, that hasn’t completely quieted concerns. Walz took the stage at 11:22 p.m. Eastern on Wednesday, even though the program was expected to end at 11 p.m. “That is serious malpractice on scheduling these speeches,” MSNBC host Lawrence O’Donnell said during the network’s coverage of the event. His colleague Rachel Maddow offered a suggestion to Democrats: “Start earlier.”

The Republican National Convention also experienced no drop-off in the later hours. Some 28.4 million people watched Donald Trump’s speech on the closing night of the convention, up from the 25.4 million people who watched the rest of the programming that night.

“This convention is definitely different from normal viewing behavior,” industry analyst Brad Adgate told The Washington Post.

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Donald Trump attacks Gov. Josh Shapiro as 'highly overrated Jewish governor'

Donald Trump took to social media just after midnight Thursday to attack Gov. Josh Shapiro , calling him "the highly overrated Jewish Governor of the Great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania."

The former president and 2024 GOP presidential candidate was commenting on Shapiro's speech this week at the Democratic National Convention and Israel. The statement was posted on Trump's Truth social network.

"Josh Shapiro, made a really bad and poorly delivered speech talking about freedom and fighting for Comrade Kamala Harris for President, yet she hates Israel and will do nothing but make its journey through the complexities of survival as difficult as possible, hoping in the end that it will fail. Judge only by her actions," Trump wrote.

"Yet Shapiro, for strictly political reasons, refused to acknowledge that I am the best friend that Israel, and the Jewish people, ever had."

Trump says he has "done more for Israel than any President, and frankly, I have done more for Israel than any person, and it’s not even close. Shapiro has done nothing for Israel, and never will."

Shapiro responded Thursday morning, reminding the public that Trump and his "hand-picked" candidates like Doug Mastriano, who Shapiro beat for the governor's office last year, have been "repeatedly rejected by the voters of Pennsylvania."

"I mean first off its over the last few weeks, Donald Trump is obsessed with me, and obsessed with continuing to spew hate and division in our politics," Shapiro said to reporters. "He is someone who has routinely peddled antisemitic tropes like this."

Shapiro said his DNC speech was "polar opposite," of Trump's messaging, where he talked about "real freedom and bringing people together." He said "it's clear that he is going to continue to be the hateful, divisive person that's he's always been in this campaign '.. he's setting himself up for another defeat."

WATCH @JoshShapiroPA ’s response to Donald Trump’s late night ranting about him — and the contrast between this and the Democratic message of freedom, opportunity, and bringing people together. Full answer this morning —> https://t.co/Zqe6NmrTRy pic.twitter.com/5IGwp1jNk9 — Manuel Bonder (@manuel_bonder) August 22, 2024

Shapiro has said Trump wants to use him to stoke antisemitism in the Democratic Party and across America, according to a story published Tuesday in USA Today.

"Donald Trump is the least credible person to listen to when it comes to hate and bigotry and certainly antisemitism," Shapiro told reporters on Monday at the Democratic National Convention. "He's trying to use me. He's trying to use other Jews to divide Americans further."

"I think first off its clear Donald Trump is obsessed with me and obsessed with continuing to spew hate and division in our politics," Shapiro said to reporters Thursday morning.

Who is Josh Shapiro? Here are five highlights of his Pa. political career

Shapiro, a native of Montgomery County who has openly talked about his faith, was seriosuly vetted as Harris' running mate before she choose Tim Walz, the Minnesota governor as her vice president pick for the Democratic ticket.

Shapiro, however, has remained an important part of the Harris campaign , and a target of Trump. Pennsylvania is a battleground state in the 2024 election and Shapiro, who lives outside of Philadelphia in the community where he was raised, is popular among its residents and voters.

Trump singled out Shapiro during a rally in Wilkes-Barre on Sunday, just a day before the Democratic convention opened Monday in Chicago, according to USA Today.

“They turned him down because he's Jewish,” the former president told a crowd. "Any Jewish person who votes for her or a Democrat has to go out and have their head examined."

In response to Trump’s attack in Wilkes-Barre, he was more emboldened,the story reports. "I want to stand up and condemn all of it,” Shapiro told reporters after a Pennsylvania delegation breakfast on Monday, mentioning antisemitism along with racism and Islamophobia.

This article includes reporting from Jessie Balmert , Karissa Waddick and Francesca Chambers of the USA Today network.

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Eulogy writing guide, funeral speeches for a work colleague, tribute speech to dad from daughter, funeral speech writing advice, goodbye funeral speech for a friend.

February 24, 2024

Losing a dear friend is never easy, and the pain of grief can leave us feeling overwhelmed and unable to put into words the depth of our emotions. Yet, crafting a goodbye funeral speech for a friend offers the opportunity to celebrate their life, express our feelings, and provide comfort to those who share our loss. This task can be daunting, but it's also a chance to honor our friend's memory and find closure in our own grief. Thankfully, Eulogy Assistant is here to help guide you through this emotional process, ensuring that your tribute is as unique and special as your relationship with the departed.

Are you struggling to write a meaningful eulogy during this difficult time? Our professional eulogy writing service can help you honour your loved one in less than 48 hours, with no additional stress. We help you preserve the legacy of a cherished life, in your time of grief. Find out more →

Table of Contents

Step 1: Reflect on Your Friendship

Step 2: consider the audience, step 3: structure your speech, step 4: balance emotion and humor, step 5: edit and practice, goodbye funeral speech for a friend example.

The first step in writing a heartfelt eulogy for a friend is to take the time to reflect on the bond you shared. Recall memories, shared experiences, and the qualities that made your friend stand out. Write down any treasured moments or anecdotes that may serve as inspiration for your speech.

When crafting your goodbye funeral speech, it's essential to consider the audience. This includes family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances who may be attending the funeral. Keep in mind the emotions they might be feeling, and be sure to offer words of comfort and empathy.

A well-structured eulogy will give your speech flow and help guide the audience through your tribute. Begin by addressing the guests, offering words of sympathy and acknowledging the loss that everyone is feeling. Next, progress to a more detailed account of your friendship, highlighting the qualities and shared experiences that will resonate with the audience. Close your speech by offering words of condolence, hope, or even a favorite quote that encapsulates your friend's spirit.

Need a Eulogy? Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One

Writing a eulogy for a loved one you have just lost, can be both challenging and painful. Alongside the pressure of delivering a meaningful tribute in front of other funeral guests.

Let our expert Funeral Speech Writers create a heartfelt & personalized eulogy, that captures the amazing life and memories of your loved one.

Learn more about our Professional Eulogy Writing Service today, and see how we can help you.

Though the occasion is solemn, it's essential to include moments of levity or humor in your speech. Sharing a funny anecdote or light-hearted memory can bring comfort to grieving friends and family and offer a welcome reprieve from the heaviness of the mourning process.

After writing your speech, take the time to review and edit it until you feel confident in its message and tone. Read the words aloud to ensure rhythm and flow, and practice delivering the eulogy in a manner that feels authentic to you.

Suppose your friend John was known for his love of adventure, an infectious sense of humor, and unwavering loyalty. The eulogy could be structured as follows:

- Introduction: Address the audience, express your condolences, and acknowledge the shared grief.

- The Adventurer: Share a personal story about a memorable trip or adventure with John, highlighting his bravery and love for exploring the unknown.

- The Comedian: Recall a humorous incident that emphasizes John's wit and ability to make everyone laugh even during challenging times.

- The Loyal Friend: Share examples that showcase John's loyalty, trustworthiness, and unwavering support of his friends and family.

- Conclusion: Offer a quote, like "To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die," to provide comfort and hope to the audience while honoring John's memory.

Writing a goodbye funeral speech for a friend can be a challenging task, filled with emotion and the weight of loss. However, it is also a beautiful opportunity to celebrate the life of someone you cherished, and express the precious bond that you shared. As you navigate through this process, remember that Eulogy Assistant 's intuitive software can offer invaluable guidance and support to help you craft a heartfelt and memorable tribute to your departed friend. Take solace in the fact that your words, rooted in love and sincerity, will provide comfort to all those who hear them.

Looking For Examples? Here Are Some of The Best Eulogies

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COMMENTS

Best Friend Funeral Speech Examples
Keeping the Speech Concise yet Impactful. Example 1: A Tribute to My Best Friend. Example 2: Remembering a Lifelong Friend. Example 3: Farewell to a Cherished Soul. Best Friend Funeral Speech Example 4: Remembering a Lifetime of Friendship. Best Friend Funeral Speech Example 5: Celebrating a Cherished Bond.
Short Funeral Speech For Friend
Short Funeral Speech For Friend Example 5. "As we gather here to say our goodbyes to [friend's name], let us forever remember the joyous moments, laughter, and kindness [he/she] shared with each of us. Gone too soon, [he/she] will forever remain in our hearts and memories, leaving an indelible mark on our lives.
85 Eulogy Examples
Outstanding eulogies posted on Ever Loved. Example eulogy templates. Eulogy examples for a friend. Eulogy examples for a father. Eulogy examples for a mother. Eulogy examples for a grandmother or grandfather. Eulogy examples for a son. Eulogy examples for a brother or sister. Eulogy examples for a grandson or granddaughter.
The Best Funeral Speech For A Friend
You may want to include humorous anecdotes and mention the positive qualities they possessed. 5. Be concise. Try to keep your speech between 5-10 minutes long. This length offers enough time to cover essential aspects of your friend's life and allows other speakers ample opportunity to share their tributes. 6.
Touching Eulogy Examples for a Dear Friend
Short Eulogy Example for a Friend. Sometimes a short eulogy for a friend is an ideal choice. You want to consider the funeral venue and frame your eulogy according to the setting and those in attendance. For example, if your friend was a musician, you may want to have a shorter eulogy so you can play your friend's favorite song. Short eulogy ...
How to Write a Eulogy for a Friend: 9+ Examples
5. Picture Your Audience. In this step, you'll start taking the things you wrote in your journaling session and forming them into a eulogy. When you give any speech, including a eulogy, one of the most important factors to consider is your audience. Try to picture who will be in attendance at your friend's funeral.
How To Write A Eulogy For A Friend
With your reflections written out and the main content of your eulogy identified, start writing them down in the form of a eulogy. This is a good time to identify any poems or quotes you want to include in the eulogy for your friend. After you've finalized the written eulogy, try reading it in front of another friend or family member to get a ...
Funeral Speech Examples for a Heartfelt Eulogy
Describe the person's qualities. Talk about their career, jobs, hobbies and passions. Talk about their relationships with family, friends and colleagues. Mention things that you inherited or learned from them. Perhaps mention some people who will be at the funeral. Mention a couple of funny stories if appropriate.
Eulogy examples
My mother was the greatest and most wonderful woman. My mother, Lucy Marie Duran, was born on January 23 1949, in Mesilla, New Mexico. She was one of the eight children, five girls and three boys, who were …. Eulogy examples for an uncle. Today I stand in front of you all with a deep hole in my heart.
A Guide to Writing a Funeral Speech: 8 Heartfelt Examples
Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash. 01 A good funeral speech starts with an introduction. 02 You can tell the congregation who you are and what your relationship is to the deceased. 03 It might not be necessary to do so explicitly if you are a close family or friend.
How to Deliver a Heartfelt Funeral Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide
A funeral speech that shares fond memories and celebrates the entire life of a loved one can be remembered as the best eulogy ever, leaving a lasting impression on those who hear it. B. Final thoughts on honoring the memory of a loved one. Honoring the memory of a close friend or family member through a funeral speech is a significant ...
21+ Short Eulogy Examples for a Funeral
A eulogy is a speech given in honor of a loved one who has passed away. Eulogies are given at funerals and memorial services and are typically delivered by a family member or close friend of the deceased. Eulogies are one of the most important aspects of a funeral or memorial service.They provide an opportunity to inform or remind guests of who the deceased was as a person.
A Beautiful Example Eulogy for a Precious Best Friend
At least I know each moment has unfolded like it should have, that there is nothing I could have done to be your saviour — as much as I wish I could have, and no matter what tomorrow brings, I will embrace tenacity, compassion and selflessness, just the way you would have. Another Touching Eulogy for a Friend. More Funeral Speech Examples.
What to Say at a Funeral: Plan the Perfect Memorial Speech
A funeral speech is more than just a mere formality; it's a powerful vehicle for expressing collective grief and celebrating a unique life. This is a moment where words take on a profound significance, offering a semblance of comfort in the face of loss and helping those gathered to begin the healing process.
How to Write a Eulogy for a Friend Who Died Suddenly
So if you were asked to write a eulogy for a friend, we're here to help you craft the speech that honors their life. ... you should give a eulogy at a friend's funeral. Speaking at a person's funeral is a very loving act. ... Writing a eulogy for a friend who died suddenly is a chance to say your final farewell. ...
Funeral Speech Examples For Best Friend
Example: "My journey into becoming a registered nurse was inspired by my experiences with [Best Friend's Name]. [His/her] dedication to volunteer work and the compassion [he/she] showed for others made me realize the life I wanted to pursue." 4. Mention their family and other loved ones.
What to Say at a Funeral
Whether you are looking for words of comfort for a grieving friend, or you are writing a funeral speech or eulogy, these condolences and encouragements are sure to give you inspiration for what to say at a ... What to Say in a Funeral Speech. Speaking at a funeral is a great honor. You are given the opportunity to talk about the wonderful life ...
Eulogy For a Friend Sample
Eulogies for a friend can sometimes be a bit different from eulogies for a family member. On the other hand, sometimes our friends are actually our family. This free sample eulogy or funeral speech can be used to give you some ideas to get you started. And, you can adapt for either a friend or family member. We hope it is helpful.
A Moving Best Friend Eulogy for Inspiration
Written for us by Jelena about her dear friend who died at the young age of 25, it is a moving tribute to a precious friendship. Use it as an inspiration if you need to write one for a beloved friend of your own. We would like to thank Jelena for sharing this deeply personal eulogy with us, and hope it serves as a permanent memorial to a ...
Hundreds line streets for funeral of Southport stabbing victim Elsie
The Southport community gathered for the funeral of the young girls killed in the Southport stabbings, described as an "extraordinary girl" who brought "immeasurable joy" to those around her.
Taylor Casey update: Exclusive interview with missing woman's mom, friends
Colette Seymore recalls answering the phone around 1 p.m. on June 20. It was a phone call that would change her life. The person on the other end identified themselves as someone from the yoga ...
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Offer words of comfort. 5. End with a heartfelt conclusion. The loss of a friend can leave you feeling heartbroken and at a loss for words. As you navigate through the stages of grief, one of the most meaningful ways to honor their memory is by sharing a few words at their funeral.
What to Say at a Funeral Service or Wake: 15+ Ideas
Using a funeral speech example as inspiration can help you approach this challenge with ease. The tribute for every speech has a basic flow, and it doesn't have to be perfect. The most important thing is that your funeral speech comes from the heart. Below, you'll find funeral speech examples for a variety of situations.
What Kamala Harris Was Really Saying in Her Convention Speech
In fact, her speech was cut from the same cloth as three very different past nominees who recounted the importance of family and overcoming adversity — all of whom went on to win the presidency.
Members of the Kennedy family denounce RFK Jr.'s decision to endorse Trump
"We believe in Harris and Walz," the statement continued. "Our brother Bobby's decision to endorse Trump today is a betrayal of the values that our father and our family hold most dear.
Are late-running DNC speeches losing viewers? The ratings say no
Approximately 19 million of the 20 million people who watched the convention Monday night stuck around for Biden's speech, while the audience for Obama's speech - 21.9 million - actually ...
Words To Say At A Funeral For A Friend
Offer heartfelt condolences to the family, and express the sense of loss that you all share. 5. Convey Inspiration and Hope. End the speech on a positive note by sharing a life lesson, quote or scripture that has helped you through your own grief, in the hope that it might offer support and solace to others as well.
Trump attacks Gov. Josh Shapiro as 'highly overrated Jewish governor'
Donald Trump took to social media just after midnight Thursday to attack Gov. Josh Shapiro, calling him "the highly overrated Jewish Governor of the Great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.". The former president and 2024 GOP presidential candidate was commenting on Shapiro's speech this week at the Democratic National Convention and Israel. The statement was posted on Trump's Truth social network.
Goodbye Funeral Speech For A Friend
Table of Contents. Step 1: Reflect on Your Friendship. Step 2: Consider the Audience. Step 3: Structure Your Speech. Step 4: Balance Emotion and Humor. Step 5: Edit and Practice. Goodbye Funeral Speech For A Friend Example.
Family of Southport victim to celebrate her life with 'positivity, hope
A statement on the Facebook page for FJ Gibb Funeral Directors said: "Elsie's mum and dad, and her family, are encouraging friends and all the local community to give her the best possible ...