Writing a Eulogy

Crafting a eulogy is a meaningful and important task. The most impactful eulogies are those that authentically capture the essence of the person being remembered.

Understanding the Basics:

• What is a Eulogy?
  • A eulogy is a speech or piece of writing that celebrates and commemorates the life of a person who has passed away. It is often delivered during a funeral or memorial service.
• Purpose of a Eulogy:
  • The primary purpose is to honor and remember the deceased, celebrating their life, achievements, and the impact they had on others.
  • It provides an opportunity for friends and family to find comfort and closure.

A eulogy is similar to, yet differs from, an obituary.

Identifying the Beneficiaries:

• Who Benefits?
  • Writer: The process of writing a eulogy can be therapeutic for the writer, helping them reflect on positive aspects of the person's life.
  • Speaker: Delivering a eulogy allows the speaker to share memories, express grief, and offer comfort to others.
  • Audience: Listeners benefit by gaining insight into the person's life and finding solace in shared memories.

Content of a Eulogy:

• Personal Anecdotes: Share stories that highlight the person's character, values, and accomplishments.
• Qualities and Achievements: Discuss the positive attributes and achievements of the deceased.
• Impact on Others: Describe how the person influenced and touched the lives of those around them.
• Humor: Appropriately incorporate humor, as it can lighten the mood and celebrate the person's sense of joy.

Typical Structure:

• Introduction:
  • Start with a brief introduction, expressing gratitude for attendees and acknowledging the purpose of the eulogy.
• Personal Stories:
  • Share personal anecdotes that illustrate the individual's personality, kindness, and memorable moments.
• Achievements and Values:
  • Discuss the person's accomplishments, values, and the principles they lived by.
• Impact on Others:
  • Describe the impact the person had on family, friends, and the community.
• Closing:
  • Conclude with a heartfelt message, expressing gratitude for the person's life and the impact they had on others.

Examples of Excellent Eulogies:

• Steve Jobs' Sister, Mona Simpson:
  • Mona Simpson's eulogy for Steve Jobs emphasized his humanity, love for his family, and his passion for creating groundbreaking products.
• Hunter S. Thompson's Eulogy by Johnny Depp:
  • Johnny Depp's eulogy for Hunter S. Thompson captured the eccentricity and free spirit of the renowned journalist and author.
• Senator John McCain's Eulogy by Meghan McCain:
  • Meghan McCain's eulogy for her father, Senator John McCain, combined emotional reflections with powerful messages about his character and legacy.

Additional Tips:

• Keep it Personal: Share genuine, personal stories that reflect the individual's character.
• Mind the Tone: Strike a balance between reverence and celebration, adapting the tone to the wishes and personality of the deceased.
• Practice Delivery: Practice delivering the eulogy to ensure a calm and composed delivery during the actual service.

Crafting a eulogy is a meaningful and important task. While examples can provide inspiration, the most impactful eulogies are those that authentically capture the essence of the person being remembered.