example of a funeral thank you speech

• Condolences & What To Say

How to Write a Funeral Thank You Speech: Tips & Examples

Updated 10/11/2022

Published 04/15/2020

Joe Oliveto, BA in English

Contributing writer

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Speaking at a funeral is a major responsibility. You don’t want to dismiss the pain yourself or others are going through, but you also want to find a positive way to express your feelings.

Jump ahead to these sections:

• 8 Tips for Giving a Funeral Thank You Speech 

Funeral Thank You Speech Examples

This can become easier if you make gratitude the focus of your funeral speech. You can add a sense of hope and positivity to a difficult occasion by thanking those who’ve helped you and your loved ones both now and in the past. 

You can also use this opportunity to thank the deceased for helping you in some special way when they were alive. If you decide to take this approach, keep the following tips in mind when drafting and delivering your speech.

COVID-19 tip: If you're speaking at a virtual funeral  using a service like  GatheringUs , you can still share your thoughts or eulogy with your online guests. Coordinate with your planning team, make sure you have the right microphones and audio equipment, and send online guests digital funeral programs with the full speaking schedule.

8 Tips for Giving a Funeral Thank You Speech

It’s worth noting that the nature of a funeral thank you speech will vary depending on your exact goals and who you want to thank. That said, these tips will help you feel more confident in your eulogy. Remember them if you ever want to use a funeral speech as an opportunity to express gratitude.

Tip:  Writing a thank you speech is one of the many challenges you might be facing after the death of a loved one. Our post-loss checklist  can help you through this process. 

1. Be specific

One of your key goals when delivering a funeral thank you speech may be to make sure the people listening feel you’re expressing authentic gratitude for the role the deceased played in your life. Perhaps you want to thank them, even if they aren’t necessarily there any longer.

One way to achieve this goal is to include a specific anecdote about a time the person who has passed on was helpful or supportive in some capacity.

Not every member of the audience will be able to relate to the specific details of your story. That said, including a genuine example of a reason you feel grateful for someone will add a degree of true feeling. This makes your overall message resonate more strongly.

Telling a specific story also reminds listeners of the deceased’s unique character and spirit. You can describe plenty of people as “helpful and supportive.” Telling a story conveys the unique way in which someone was helpful and supportive during their life.

2. Thank others

One common purpose of a funeral thank you speech is to express gratitude for someone who has passed on. However, it’s also good funeral etiquette to thank other family members and friends who have been helpful during what is likely a difficult time for many. While this shouldn’t necessarily be the overall focus of your speech, it’s nice to address the helpful roles others have played in the wake of a loved one’s death.

As with the above tip, the more specific you are in your thanks, the more likely people will feel your words are genuinely heartfelt.

Keep in mind that family members and friends may not be the only people who helped out in the days leading up to the funeral. For instance, religious figures, funeral directors, and others might also have been very supportive. Take this opportunity to thank them as well.

3. Thank those in attendance

Not everyone who attends a funeral will play an active role in making arrangements or supporting others after the deceased’s passing. Still, their very presence is likely something for which you should feel grateful. 

That’s why you may consider starting off a funeral thank you speech by thanking everyone for attending. This sets a positive tone and lets all mourners feel appreciated during what is likely a challenging experience for many. It also reminds everyone that family and friends can and should be there for one another when a loved one passes.

4. Practice with loved ones

This is a general tip worth remembering in any instance when you’ll be speaking at a funeral . It isn’t a funny best man or maid of honor speech, which you might want to surprise all members of your audience with. 

Practicing with family members helps you overcome your own emotional hurdles that might otherwise arise if you wait until the day of the funeral to deliver the speech for the first time. It also helps you refine the speech to ensure it conveys exactly what you want to express. Additionally, if you’re going to specifically thank others for the help they’ve offered during a difficult time, your friends and family can let you know if you overlooked someone.

That said, you need to carefully consider which family members and friends you want to practice your speech in front of. For those who were particularly close to the deceased, listening to your speech early might be too emotionally challenging. You’re better off involving those who were close enough to the deceased to offer useful feedback and insights, but not so distraught they won’t be able to comfortably provide advice.

5. Consider those who helped leading up to a loved one’s death

You already know it’s a good idea to use your funeral thank you speech as an opportunity to thank anyone who helped out in the days following a loved one’s passing. Just remember that there might also be people deserving of thanks who played a more significant role when your loved one was alive.

For instance, perhaps you’re mourning an elderly loved one who required regular help from nurses and caregivers during the later years of their life. Or, maybe you’re eulogizing someone who passed from an illness, and you want to acknowledge the medical professionals who made their life easier. Thanking these people during your speech is another way to ensure you fully express your gratitude.

6. Consider including messages from others

Not everyone who wants to express their gratitude at a funeral will have the opportunity to deliver a funeral thank you speech. Other family members and friends might want to thank the deceased for the role they played in their lives. They might also want to thank specific members of the audience for any help they offered in the time leading up to and following your loved one’s death. 

Consider reaching out to these people if you think that’s the case. While you may not be able to include messages from every single person in attendance, you could very likely include a few that are particularly moving.

7. Admit you needed help

Thanking someone in any capacity is a way of saying they helped you at an important point in your life. Thus, your gratitude will seem more genuine if you willingly admit you needed help.

For example, if you’re thanking caregivers who helped make a loved one’s final years more comfortable, you should admit that you couldn’t have handled the situation on your own. If you’re thanking the deceased for offering support when you needed it, explain exactly why you needed it. If you’re thanking those who helped make arrangements after your loved one’s passing, admit that this has been a difficult time, and their contributions were very helpful. 

8. Know your strengths

This is another tip worth keeping in mind any time you’re not sure what to say at a funeral . Now isn’t the time to take public speaking risks. Instead, honestly ask yourself what your public speaking strengths are, and play to those. 

For instance, you might want to thank the deceased in a more casual way by bringing up a funny anecdote about a time they got you out of a jam. However, if you’re not skilled at balancing humor with heart when speaking on stage, you’re better off sticking to the types of messages you know you can convey effectively. This is another reason it’s helpful to practice ahead of time.

The following excerpts of eulogy examples represent the different types of thank yous you might include in a funeral thank you speech. Keep in mind, these are general examples. Odds are good you’ll need to modify them to suit your needs. 

“I want to thank all of you for coming to celebrate the life of my brother. Our family can’t express how much your generosity has meant to us during this difficult time. Although we appreciate all of you, we want to specifically thank Uncle Matt for remaining so positive and helpful during these past few days. We’d also like to recognize Aunt Pam for helping us make arrangements and always being there to listen as we’ve coped with our loss.”

“My grandfather’s condition, unfortunately, deteriorated after the death of my grandmother. Luckily, despite this, our family can confidently say his final years were still comfortable and full of joyful moments. This wouldn’t have been possible without the help of his unfailingly patient caregivers, Dawn, Anne, and Karen. You made his final years happier than they ever could have been if you weren’t there to care for him.”

“Kevin played an important role in all our lives. I can confidently say everyone here probably has a story about a time he offered his support when they needed it most. I’d like to specifically thank him for his patience. When I was going through a difficult time because of my own demons, he was the friend who never judged me, and never let me feel I was a burden. I’ll always be grateful for that.”

Giving Thanks After a Loved One’s Passing

The prospect of delivering a funeral thank you speech may intimidate you. That’s understandable. However, this doesn’t need to be a difficult experience. On the contrary, this is a chance to help both yourself and others heal through the power of gratitude. These tips will help you do so.

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Words at Ease

6 Memorial Service Speech Examples

Saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy.

When you’re asked to deliver a speech at a memorial service, the task can feel even more challenging.

How do you find the right words to honor their memory, provide comfort to those grieving, and capture the essence of who they were?

Memorial Service Speech Examples

In this article, we’ve compiled six examples of memorial service speeches to inspire and guide you.

Whether you’re looking for something short and sweet or a longer tribute, these samples will help you write a heartfelt and meaningful farewell that truly celebrates the life of the person you’ve lost.

Short 300-word speech

We are gathered here today to recall and honor the life of [Name], a beloved [relation], friend, and [other roles]. [Name] touched the lives of so many with [his/her/their] warmth, kindness, and infectious spirit.

[Name] had a way of brightening any room [he/she/they] entered. Whether it was with a witty joke, a comforting hug, or wise words of advice, [Name] always seemed to know just what was needed. [His/Her/Their] laugh was contagious, and [his/her/their] smile could lift even the darkest of days.

[Name]’s passion for [hobbies/interests] was unmatched. [He/She/They] poured [his/her/their] heart into [specific examples] and inspired others to follow their dreams with the same fervor. [Name] taught us the importance of living life to the fullest and cherishing each moment as a gift.

Though [Name] may no longer be with us physically, [his/her/their] spirit lives on through the countless lives [he/she/they] touched. May we honor [his/her/their] memory by embodying the love, compassion, and zest for life that defined [Name]. [He/She/They] will always remain in our hearts.

— END OF SPEECH —

Commentary: This short speech is suitable for a brief memorial service or as part of a larger celebration of life ceremony. It highlights the person’s most endearing qualities, passions, and the impact they had on others while offering words of comfort and encouragement to those grieving.

Medium-length 500-word speech

[Name] was an extraordinary individual who left an unforgettable mark on all who knew [him/her/them]. Born on [birth date] in [birth place], [Name] grew up to become a shining example of [virtues].

From a young age, [Name] displayed a keen intellect and insatiable curiosity. [He/She/They] excelled academically, graduating from [school] with honors before pursuing a career in [field]. [Name]’s dedication to [his/her/their] work was unparalleled, and [he/she/they] quickly became known as an expert in [his/her/their] field.

But [Name] was so much more than [his/her/their] professional accomplishments. [He/She/They] had a heart of gold and a generous spirit that knew no bounds. [Name] volunteered countless hours at [organization], always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. [His/Her/Their] compassion and empathy touched the lives of many, and [he/she/they] will be recalled as a true friend to all.

Family was everything to [Name]. [He/She/They] cherished every moment spent with [his/her/their] [family members], whether it was a quiet evening at home or a lively family gathering. [Name]’s love for [his/her/their] family was unconditional, and [he/she/they] always put their needs before [his/her/their] own.

As we say goodbye to [Name], let us remember the lessons [he/she/they] taught us: to live with integrity, to love with all our hearts, and to find joy in the simple things. Though we will miss [Name] dearly, we take comfort in knowing that [his/her/their] legacy will live on through the countless lives [he/she/they] touched. Rest in peace, dear [Name].

Commentary: This medium-length speech provides a more comprehensive overview of the person’s life, highlighting their professional achievements, personal qualities, and the importance of family. It’s suitable for a standalone memorial service or as the main eulogy at a larger gathering.

Long 700-word speech

Today, we come together to celebrate the remarkable life of [Name], a [relation], friend, and mentor who left us too soon. [Name] was born on [birth date] in [birth place] to [parents’ names], the [birth order] of [number] children.

Growing up, [Name] discovered a passion for [hobby/interest] that would shape the course of [his/her/their] life. [He/She/They] spent countless hours [engaging in hobby/interest], refining [his/her/their] skills, and developing a deep appreciation for [related values].

[Name]’s dedication to [hobby/interest] led [him/her/them] to pursue a career in [field]. [He/She/They] attended [university] and graduated with a degree in [subject] before landing [his/her/their] dream job at [company]. [Name] quickly made a name for [himself/herself/themselves] in the industry, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike.

But [Name]’s true calling was helping others. [He/She/They] volunteered regularly at [organization], working tirelessly to [specific tasks]. [Name]’s compassion and generosity knew no bounds, and [he/she/they] always put the needs of others before [his/her/their] own.

The family was the center of [Name]’s world. [He/She/They] met the love of [his/her/their] life, [partner’s name], at [place/event], and the two were inseparable from that moment on. They built a beautiful life together, filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures.

[Name] was a devoted [parent/grandparent] to [children/grandchildren’s names]. [He/She/They] cherished every moment spent with [his/her/their] family, whether it was [specific activities]. [Name]’s love for [his/her/their] family was unconditional, and [he/she/they] always made sure they knew how much they were loved.

Though [Name] faced many challenges throughout [his/her/their] life, including [specific challenges], [he/she/they] never lost [his/her/their] positive outlook or zest for life. [Name] taught us the importance of resilience, the power of a positive attitude, and the value of cherishing every moment.

As we say farewell to [Name], let us remember the indelible mark [he/she/they] left on our lives. May we honor [his/her/their] memory by living our lives with the same love, compassion, and dedication that [he/she/they] embodied. Rest in peace, dear [Name]. You will be forever missed and always cherished.

Commentary: This longer speech provides a more in-depth look at the person’s life, from their childhood and early passions to their professional achievements and personal challenges. It highlights the central role of family and the life lessons they imparted. This speech is suitable for a standalone memorial service or as the main eulogy at a larger gathering.

Long 800-word speech

[Name] was a remarkable individual who touched the lives of countless people throughout [his/her/their] [number] years on this earth. Born on [birth date] in [birth place], [Name] was the [birth order] of [number] children born to [parents’ names].

From a young age, [Name] displayed an innate curiosity and thirst for knowledge. [He/She/They] excelled in school, particularly in [subjects], and was known for [his/her/their] quick wit and infectious laugh. [Name]’s teachers often remarked on [his/her/their] potential, and it was clear that [he/she/they] was destined for great things.

After graduating from [high school] at the top of [his/her/their] class, [Name] attended [university] to study [subject]. It was there that [he/she/they] discovered [his/her/their] true passion: [career field]. [Name] threw [himself/herself/themselves] into [his/her/their] studies, earning a reputation as a dedicated and talented [student/researcher/etc.].

Upon graduating from [university], [Name] landed [his/her/their] dream job at [company]. [He/She/They] quickly made a name for [himself/herself/themselves] in the industry, earning numerous accolades and promotions along the way. But for [Name], success was never about personal glory; it was about making a difference in the lives of others.

Outside of work, [Name] was a dedicated volunteer, giving [his/her/their] time and energy to numerous causes close to [his/her/their] heart. [He/She/They] was particularly passionate about [specific cause], and spent countless hours [volunteering activity]. [Name]’s kindness and generosity touched the lives of many, and [his/her/their] legacy of service will live on for generations to come.

Family was everything to [Name]. [He/She/They] met the love of [his/her/their] life, [partner’s name], at [place/event], and the two were married in a beautiful ceremony surrounded by family and friends. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and endless adventures.

[Name] was a devoted [parent/grandparent] to [children/grandchildren’s names], cherishing every moment spent with [his/her/their] beloved family. [He/She/They] was always there for [his/her/their] family, offering a listening ear, a comforting hug, or words of wisdom when needed. [Name]’s love for [his/her/their] family knew no bounds, and [he/she/they] made sure they always felt cherished and supported.

But life wasn’t always easy for [Name]. [He/She/They] faced [his/her/their] share of challenges and setbacks, including [specific challenges]. Yet through it all, [Name] never lost [his/her/their] positive outlook or determination to overcome any obstacle in [his/her/their] path. [He/She/They] taught us the power of resilience, the importance of staying true to oneself, and the value of cherishing every moment with loved ones.

As we gather here today to say goodbye to [Name], let us remember the unforgettable mark [he/she/they] left on our lives. May we honor [his/her/their] memory by living our lives with the same love, compassion, and dedication that [he/she/they] embodied. Rest in peace, dear [Name]. You may be gone from this earth, but you will live forever in our hearts.

Commentary: This longer speech provides a comprehensive look at the person’s life, highlighting their early years, academic and professional achievements, volunteer work, family life, and personal challenges. It emphasizes the central role of family, the life lessons they taught, and the legacy they leave behind. This speech is suitable for a standalone memorial service or as the main eulogy at a larger gathering.

Lengthy 1000-word Speech

Today, we gather to celebrate the extraordinary life of [Name], a beloved [relation], friend, and mentor who left an unforgettable mark on all who knew [him/her/them]. Born on [birth date] in [birth place], [Name] was the [birth order] of [number] children born to [parents’ names], a [father’s occupation] and a [mother’s occupation].

From an early age, [Name] displayed a unique combination of intelligence, curiosity, and compassion that would define [his/her/their] life. As a child, [he/she/they] could often be found [childhood hobby/interest], a passion that would stay with [him/her/them] throughout [his/her/their] life.

[Name] excelled academically, graduating at the top of [his/her/their] class at [high school]. [He/She/They] went on to attend [university], where [he/she/they] studied [subject] and discovered [his/her/their] true calling: [career field]. [Name] threw [himself/herself/themselves] into [his/her/their] studies, earning numerous accolades and forming lifelong friendships along the way.

After graduating from [university] with honors, [Name] embarked on a remarkable career in [field]. [He/She/They] quickly made a name for [himself/herself/themselves], earning a reputation as a brilliant and innovative [job title]. Over the years, [Name] achieved numerous professional milestones, including [specific achievements]. But for [Name], success was never about personal glory; it was about making a difference in the lives of others.

Outside of work, [Name] was a dedicated volunteer and philanthropist. [He/She/They] gave generously of [his/her/their] time and resources to numerous causes close to [his/her/their] heart, including [specific causes]. [Name] served on the board of [organization] for [number] years and was instrumental in [specific accomplishments]. [His/Her/Their] kindness and generosity touched countless lives, and [his/her/their] legacy of service will continue to inspire others for generations to come.

But perhaps [Name]’s greatest legacy was the love and devotion [he/she/they] had for [his/her/their] family. [He/She/They] met the love of [his/her/their] life, [partner’s name], at [place/event], and the two were married in a beautiful ceremony on [wedding date]. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and endless adventures, traveling the world and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

[Name] was a devoted [parent/grandparent] to [children/grandchildren’s names], cherishing every moment spent with [his/her/their] beloved family. [He/She/They] was always there for them, offering a listening ear, a comforting hug, or sage words of advice when needed. [Name] taught [his/her/their] children the importance of integrity, hard work, and compassion, values that will continue to guide them throughout their lives.

But life wasn’t always easy for [Name]. [He/She/They] faced numerous challenges and setbacks over the years, including [specific challenges]. Yet through it all, [Name] never lost [his/her/their] positive outlook or determination to overcome any obstacle in [his/her/their] path. [He/She/They] taught us the power of resilience, the importance of staying true to oneself, and the value of cherishing every moment with loved ones.

In [his/her/their] later years, [Name] enjoyed [retirement activities], spending cherished time with family and friends. Even as [his/her/their] health declined, [Name] never lost [his/her/their] sense of humor or zest for life. [He/She/They] faced [his/her/their] final days with the same grace and courage that defined [his/her/their] entire life, surrounded by the love and support of [his/her/their] family.

As we say goodbye to [Name], let us remember the incredible impact [he/she/they] had on all who knew [him/her/them]. May we honor [his/her/their] memory by living our lives with the same love, compassion, and dedication that [he/she/they] embodied. Rest in peace, dear [Name]. You may be gone from this earth, but you will live on in our hearts.

Commentary: This lengthy speech provides a highly detailed and personal look at the individual’s life, from their early years and academic achievements to their professional career, volunteer work, family life, and later years. It emphasizes their core values, the challenges they overcame, and the profound impact they had on others. This speech is suitable for a standalone memorial service or as the main eulogy at a larger gathering, particularly for someone who lived a long and accomplished life.

Lengthy 1000+ word speech

We are gathered here today to honor the life and legacy of [Name], an extraordinary individual who touched the lives of countless people throughout [his/her/their] [number] years on this earth. Born on [birth date] in [birth place], [Name] was the [birth order] of [number] children born to [parents’ names], a [father’s occupation] and a [mother’s occupation].

From a young age, it was clear that [Name] was destined for greatness. [He/She/They] displayed an insatiable curiosity, a brilliant mind, and a compassionate heart that would define [his/her/their] life. As a child, [Name] could often be found [childhood hobbies/interests], passions that would stay with [him/her/them] throughout [his/her/their] life and shape [his/her/their] future in profound ways.

[Name] excelled academically, graduating at the top of [his/her/their] class at [high school name]. [He/She/They] went on to attend [university name] on a full scholarship, where [he/she/they] studied [subject] and discovered [his/her/their] true calling: [career field]. [Name] threw [himself/herself/themselves] into [his/her/their] studies with the same passion and dedication that would define [his/her/their] entire life, earning numerous accolades and forging lifelong friendships along the way.

After graduating from [university name] with the highest honors, [Name] embarked on a remarkable career in [field] that would span over [number] decades. [He/She/They] quickly made a name for [himself/herself/themselves] as a visionary leader and innovator, earning a reputation for [specific qualities]. Over the years, [Name] achieved numerous milestones and accolades, including [specific achievements]. But for [Name], success was never about personal glory; it was about making a difference in the lives of others and leaving the world a better place than [he/she/they] found it.

Outside of [his/her/their] professional life, [Name] was a dedicated volunteer and philanthropist who gave generously of [his/her/their] time and resources to numerous causes close to [his/her/their] heart. [He/She/They] was particularly passionate about [specific cause], and worked tirelessly to [specific actions] through [his/her/their] involvement with [organization name]. [Name]’s unwavering commitment to service inspired countless others to follow in [his/her/their] footsteps, and [his/her/their] legacy of compassion and generosity will continue to touch lives for generations to come.

But perhaps [Name]’s greatest accomplishment was the love and devotion [he/she/they] had for [his/her/their] family. [He/She/They] met the love of [his/her/their] life, [partner’s name], at [place/event], and the two were married in a beautiful ceremony on [wedding date] surrounded by family and friends. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and endless adventures, traveling the world and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

[Name] was a devoted [parent/grandparent] to [children/grandchildren’s names], cherishing every moment spent with [his/her/their] beloved family. [He/She/They] was a constant source of love, support, and guidance, always there with a listening ear, a comforting hug, or sage words of advice. [Name] taught [his/her/their] children the importance of integrity, hard work, and compassion, values that will continue to guide them throughout their lives.

But life wasn’t always easy for [Name]. [He/She/They] faced numerous challenges and setbacks over the years, including [specific challenges]. Yet through it all, [Name] never lost [his/her/their] unwavering faith, [his/her/their] positive outlook, or [his/her/their] determination to overcome any obstacle in [his/her/their] path. [He/She/They] faced each challenge with grace and courage, teaching us the power of resilience and the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of adversity.

In [his/her/their] later years, [Name] enjoyed [retirement activities], finding joy in the simple pleasures of life and spending cherished time with family and friends. Even as [his/her/their] health declined, [Name] never lost [his/her/their] sense of humor, [his/her/their] love of life, or [his/her/their] deep faith. [He/She/They] faced [his/her/their] final days with the same grace and courage that defined [his/her/their] entire life, surrounded by the love and comfort of [his/her/their] family until the very end.

As we say our final goodbyes to [Name], let us take comfort in the knowledge that [his/her/their] spirit will live on through the countless lives [he/she/they] touched and the unforgettable mark [he/she/they] left on this world. May we honor [his/her/their] memory by living our own lives with the same love, compassion, integrity, and dedication that [he/she/they] embodied every day. Rest in peace, dear [Name]. You may be gone from this earth, but you will forever remain in our hearts and memories, a shining example of a life well lived. Thank you for the privilege of knowing and loving you.

Commentary: This lengthy speech provides an in-depth, highly personal look at the individual’s entire life journey, from their early years and formative experiences to their academic and professional achievements, philanthropic work, family life, later years, and lasting legacy. It emphasizes their core values, the challenges they overcame, their unwavering faith, and the profound impact they had on others. This speech is suitable for a standalone memorial service or as the main eulogy at a larger gathering, particularly for someone who lived a long, accomplished, and influential life. It offers a powerful and moving tribute that celebrates the individual’s life in rich detail and offers comfort and inspiration to those mourning their loss.

Delivering a memorial service speech is an opportunity to pay tribute to a loved one, share cherished memories, and find comfort in the company of others who are also grieving.

By focusing on the person’s life, achievements, and the impact they had on others, you can create a heartfelt and meaningful tribute that celebrates their legacy and honors their memory.

Keep in mind, that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to crafting a memorial speech.

The most important thing is to speak from the heart, sharing memories and stories that capture the essence of who the person was and what they meant to you.

Whether your speech is short and sweet or lengthy and detailed, the words you share will serve as a lasting tribute to the life of someone who meant so much to so many.

What to Say in Funeral Thank You Notes: Examples, Tips, and Etiquette

Find the right words for your thank you message after a funeral with these thoughtful tips.

Michele is a writer who has been published both locally and internationally.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

Sending thank you notes for funerals is a traditional part of funeral etiquette, and it's a kind way to communicate your appreciation for your fellow mourners. This gesture of gratitude is normally reserved for the individuals who went above and beyond to help make this day of mourning easier on you.

This can include the people who helped to plan or participated in the funeral, those who sent floral wreaths and sprays, as well as the loved ones who offered extended emotional support. We detail what to put in your thank you message after a death in the family occurs.

What to Include in Any Funeral Thank You Note

A funeral thank you note is not supposed to be long and drawn out. Instead, it's a short acknowledgement of your appreciation of a person or family's part in the funeral proceedings. These messages are typically three to five sentences long, but they can be longer if you choose to write more.

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Here is the typical format:

• "Thank you for serving as a pallbearer at [deceased's first name]'s funeral."
• "Your help throughout the service was very much appreciated. I know that [deceased's first name] would be grateful for your kindness. You are a great friend."
• "With Love," "Warm Wishes," "Much Love", or "With Gratitude"

Thank you notes for celebratory occasions should be sent within two weeks of the event, but thank you notes for funerals do not need to follow this tight turnaround. Aim to get this task done within two months, but know that it can extend longer. In cases where a lot of time has gone by, start your note with "This message is long overdue" or "I have been meaning to reach out."

Funeral Thank You Note Etiquette Tips

Putting pen to paper to write a personal thank you message after a death may seem like a chore to most individuals. However, there are healing benefits to sending a thank you card or letter. Here are some tips and important pieces of information for putting together this type of correspondence.

• It is nice, but not necessary, to send a thank you note to each person who attended the funeral.
• Plan to send thank you notes to those who sent flowers , gifts, or donations.
• Try to send thank you notes to those who prepared a meal, ran an errand, or offered support during your time of need.
• Consider sending thank you notes to anyone who spoke at or helped with the funeral, the wake, or the reception.
• A funeral thank you message from family can be signed with phrases like "The [your last name] family" or "the family of [deceased's first and last name]."
• It's okay to ask a close friend or family member to help you write these notes.
• Do not send virtual thank you notes unless you cannot locate a person's personal address. This type of message should be handwritten, if possible.
• Don't tackle this task in one day. That can become overwhelming quite quickly. Instead, divvy it up over a handful of days.

Thank You for Attending the Funeral Wording

Some people choose to send thank you notes to everyone who attended the funeral, while others send notes only to those who traveled far or made a big effort to get to the funeral. Wording for this type of funeral thank you note should express how important the person's presence at the funeral was for the deceased and for you.

Thank You Notes After a Funeral to Family Members

If you are sending thank you for attending the funeral notes to family members, you can include more personal information. For instance:

• Our entire family appreciates your time and sacrifice. We know it wasn't easy for you to get to the funeral, but we're glad you made it a priority.
• It meant a great deal to me and Mom that you came to the funeral. Thanks for being with us.
• Your presence at the funeral was a great comfort to me. I know it was a long journey.
• Your participation and service in the funeral was such a blessing.
• I can't thank you enough for spending so much time with us at the funeral home. Your presence helped me forget everything for a short while.

Thank You Notes for Funerals to Coworkers

Thank you note wording for coworkers who attended a funeral can be more general. For example:

• It was good to see you at my dad's funeral, even under the circumstances.
• Thank you for honoring me and my grandma by attending her funeral. I was glad to see you.
• We may not know each other very well, but your presence at my brother's funeral showed me how lucky I am to work with someone as thoughtful as you.
• It filled my heart to have my work family join my home family at my husband's funeral. Thank you for coming.

Thank You for Helping With the Funeral Messages

Anyone who helped plan, arrange, and host the funeral can be thanked for their specific contributions.

• Thank you for taking the time to help me plan the funeral. I couldn't have done it without you.
• Your help in directing guests at the funeral took a lot of pressure off me. I really appreciate you volunteering.
• I am so grateful to you for bringing a dish to share after the funeral. This display of community care was beyond expectation.
• Thank you for making this process a little easier for me by helping to arrange the funeral.
• I cannot thank you enough for serving as a pallbearer at the funeral. It was a relief to know that [deceased's name] had so many wonderful people in his/her/their life.

Thank You for the Funeral Donation Messages

From cash donations to gifts of food and meals, you can thank others for funeral gifts and monetary contributions with a few kind words.

• Thank you for your thoughtfulness. I greatly appreciate you bringing me such a delicious dinner after the funeral. It warmed my heart as much as my stomach.
• The money you donated toward the funeral costs truly alleviated some of my burden. I can never thank you enough for your generosity.
• I am beyond grateful to you for donating the funeral programs. It was such a wonderful gesture of love.
• Your donation of the church space for the funeral is greatly appreciated.
• Thank you for your help with the funeral costs. We used the money to buy [deceased's relation to you]'s tombstone. We are forever grateful for your contribution to this everlasting gift.

When you receive a monetary gift, it's customary to send a note of thanks. However, you should not note the amount that was given. Just highlight the person's generosity and your appreciation.

What to Write in a Sympathy Thank You Card

Some people choose to send thank you for your sympathy cards. You may be able to find thank you cards at stationery stores, or you can order thank you cards specific to a funeral online. You can also send this type of message of thanks as an ecard.

Original Thank You Messages for Sympathy Thank You Cards

This type of thank you card is all about letting someone know how much you appreciate their condolences or sympathy.

• Thank you for your support and thoughtful words in this difficult time. I enjoyed our conversation.
• Your condolences reached me in a moment of despair and lifted me up. Thank you for your sympathy.
• I appreciate your sympathy during this difficult time.
• Thank you for thinking of me and reaching out after the funeral.
• Your thoughts and prayers have surely helped me grieve this loss. Thank you.
• Thank you for taking the time to share some stories about [deceased's name]. It truly brought me joy to hear those wonderful memories.

Common Types of Messages for Sympathy Thank You Cards

Bereavement verses are often used in condolence letters and cards given to the mourners. You can add in special verses, including funeral poems , Bible scriptures , and other prose to convey your support to those you want to thank. This is especially important when sending a note to a dear friend of the deceased or a loved one to whom he/she shared a connection.

• 100+ Funeral Quotes to Help Say a Final Goodbye

Thank You Notes for Flowers

If you look at examples of thank you notes for flowers , you'll see the message is dictated by your relationship to the sender. Thank you notes for flowers can incorporate other messages of thanks as well. You can even let the sender know what you did with the flowers after the funeral, especially if you made them into a keepsake or donated them to a charity.

Sending Your Thanks

Acknowledging your appreciation of others can be therapeutic for you and the person receiving your words. It can also help to reinforce bonds of friendship and reciprocate feelings of support. In addition, as you consider what to say in your note, you will likely revisit the positive responses of friends and family and you may get some comfort.

Finally, don't stress about the thank you notes. No matter how you say it, offering your genuine thanks can be very meaningful to those who attended the funeral or helped during this season of loss.

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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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Home » Communication » 75 Examples of Funeral Thank You Messages

75 Examples of Funeral Thank You Messages

For the people who supported you in your time of grief, the below categories can help you write funeral thank you messages.

For Attending the Funeral For a Card or Kind Wishes For Flowers or a Wreath For Money and Donations For Bringing Food For Coworkers More

For Attending the Funeral

1. The funeral was difficult, but we needed to say goodbye and celebrate [name of lost loved one]’s time with us. Thank you for coming and supporting us in our grief. Your presence was appreciated and made this experience a little less difficult.

2. I cannot tell you how wonderful it was to see you among those who attended the funeral [the other day/some weeks ago]. Seeing you refreshed my distraught spirit like a glass of cold water on a hot summer’s day. Thank you for coming and for lifting my spirits.

3. Having you by my side at the funeral of our beloved [name of lost loved one] brought me such comfort. Not having to walk this path alone was the greatest gift I have been given in my life. Thank you so very much.

4. Thank you for caring enough to come to the funeral and for supporting my family in their time of sorrow. Grief is too heavy to carry alone, so your attendance helped lighten our load. The care and concern you showed are reminders that there are still good people in the world today. Thank you.

5. The day we had to say our final goodbye and lay [name of lost loved one] to rest was the day I feared greatly after [his/her] passing. How would I find the strength to endure this last goodbye? This was a constant source of anguish to me. Thank you for being there and ensuring that I had the chance to say a meaningful goodbye, full of happy and heartfelt memories of [him/her]. You made such a difference in my day. Thank you.

6. When those you usually seek comfort from are all grieving along with you, it can feel like you have no one to lean on for support. Thank you for coming to the funeral and for helping me. I had no idea how much I needed your presence to help steady me, and I genuinely appreciate your comfort.

7. To know how greatly loved and missed [name of lost loved one] will be brings me comfort and the inner strength to carry on. It gives me the desire to live each day with the kindness and warmth that [he/she] shared with us all. Thank you for reminding me of how loved [he/she] was at the funeral.

8. You stepped into my darkest hour and shone your light to help me make it through the most challenging funeral I have ever experienced. There is no way I could have done it without your support. Thank you for being there for me, and for all the comfort you provided. You saved me when I needed it most.

9. It was so meaningful to my family for you to share in our grief and support us at the funeral. To say goodbye to a loved one is never easy, so we are deeply grateful for your comfort. Your kindness and care were like a refreshing wind to our saddened spirits. Thank you.

10. To say the funeral was a joyous occasion is indeed an odd thing to say. However, after the sadness had washed away, you made sure that we basked in the memories and the joy from [his/her] life. The funeral was a day of celebration to celebrate a life that was so full and fruitful, and one that touched us all. Thank you for sharing that with us.

11. After making the arrangements for the funeral, deep despair gripped me. Everything was so final. Everything so sad. I didn’t know how I would face it. How would I make it through the emotion? How would I keep myself together? Please know that all these fears eased when I saw you, when you came to me with such kindness and warmth. You helped me to find strength I didn’t know I had. Thank you.

For a Card or Kind Wishes

12. It is easy to feel lonely when a loved one dies, like nobody understands. Being able to grieve along with you has been very soothing. Thank you for letting me know that I’m not alone.

13. Thank you so much for your touching card. Your words comforted our spirits in one of the most challenging times we have ever gone through. Your words spoke straight to my heart and were much appreciated.

14. Thank you for the card, remembering my dear [name of lost loved one]. Amid my numbness and suffering, you stepped in and were my rock. You will never be able to understand how much security you brought me in one of my most vulnerable moments. Death is a part of life we all must deal with at some point. I hope everyone has someone like you to walk along beside them in their time of need. Thank you!

15. Your thoughtful and well-chosen words brought me comfort at a time of deep sadness. They helped me to remember the brightness of [his/her] life, and how many people thought so highly of [him/her].

16. These past few days have been so surreal. Thank you for making us feel a little more grounded. Your kind condolences mean more than you know.

17. Your beautiful sympathy card deeply touched my family. Thank you for thinking of us during this time of sorrow. Your words eased our pain and ministered to our souls. Your sentiments expressed deep care and concern. Thank you. You were an encouragement to us all.

18. Thank you greatly for your support through my time of grieving. It has been a time of great sadness and loneliness, which has been lessened by your presence and support. Please know I am most grateful and will never forget your kindness.

19. During this time, I have realized how important your friendship is to me. Your words and actions have been so comforting. Thank you for all of the support and sympathy.

20. Your words of condolence were beautiful and comforted to my emotionally distressed soul. Thank you for being such a thoughtful and kind person and taking the time to write to me. Your card meant more than you could ever know.

21. The support and kindness you have shown me through this time of sadness and loss have been so welcome. My dearly departed [name of lost loved one] would have been so proud and thankful to you, knowing that [he/she] has gone, but I have been left in such capable and loving hands. Please know you have given me great comfort.

22. Thank you for your condolences. [Name of lost loved one] lived a great, long life, and [he/she] was so happy to have you in it. I am happy, too.

23. Your condolence card was beautiful, and I was so grateful for your words. It is easy to tell when words come from someone’s heart because they leap off the card and touch your own heart. Thank you for caring and taking the time to send your thoughtful note.

24. You have eased my pain, although my tears still flow often and freely, I know I can turn to you. I know I have support and solidarity. In my sorrow, and although it is still ever-present, I am content to know I have people like you to turn to. Thank you for your support during my time of loss.

25. You were a great friend to [name of lost loved one] throughout [his/her] whole life, and in death, you’ve been the same. Thank you for your kind and comforting words, which have helped us feel a little less of the loss of our dear [name of lost loved one] as we mourn.

26. Thank you for your beautiful words during this painful time. They were genuinely touching and beautiful. As I read your note, I thought about how it seemed as if you were reading my mind. Thank you for pouring comforting words into my heart. I will always remember your kindness.

27. When someone has left us, the sadness surrounds us all. To know that you stand with me and support me has been so uplifting and has given me the strength to face each day. Thank you.

28. I feel no one can ever really be ready to deal with losing a loved one, no matter how much they prepare. Your support helped me get through the most challenging days I have ever had. Thank you for being such a considerate person. I am deeply grateful for your kindness.

29. When we face the dark realities of life, we see who our real friends are. As I walked through this dark time in my life, you have been my greatest comfort through it all. The darkness would have consumed me if it were not for you. I am eternally grateful for your support. Thank you!

30. I wanted to express my gratitude for all the support and handholding you provided to get me through this challenging time. If it were not for you, I do not know if I could have faced the funeral. Your strength gave me the courage I needed when I was at my weakest. Thank you!

For Flowers or a Wreath

31. Thank you for the flowers that you sent. The flowers are so bright and beautiful in this hard time. [Name of lost loved one] loved to see the beauty in the world, and they would have enjoyed this gift from you.

32. When I saw the beautiful wreath you sent in memory of my [name of lost loved one], I was so touched. It was such a kind and fitting tribute to [him/her]. Thank you.

33. Flowers are always beautiful, but never so beautiful as when at a funeral. Their beauty somewhat lessens the sadness of the event. Thank you for sending such a lovely arrangement that brought beauty to our sorrowed hearts. We appreciated your kind gesture and wished to express our gratitude to you. Thank you.

34. Thank you for the most vibrant and beautiful flower arrangement in memory of my dear [name of lost loved one]. It lifted my spirit every time I looked at it. It reminded me of [his/her] vibrancy and made me think about the happy memories we had shared together. Thank you.

35. I wanted to send a note thanking you for the beautiful wreath you sent for the funeral. I was comforted by your kind gesture, and everyone mentioned how beautiful the wreath was. Thank you for your kindness and for bringing some beauty to my time of sorrow.

36. Deepest thank you for the thoughtful plant you sent to remember my [name of lost loved one]. To have a plant to grow and live on after this loss is a most thoughtful gift. This plant will become a symbol of [his/her] life for me, and I will think of [him/her] and your kindness whenever I see it. Thank you again.

37. I found the beautiful flower arrangement you sent for the funeral to be very touching. Knowing that you are thinking of me during this challenging time brought me comfort and strength. Thank you for brightening a very dark day with the beauty of your kindness and the flowers.

38. The wreath that you sent was so kind, and seeing it laid there among others at the funeral was such a visual reminder of how highly [name of lost loved one] was thought of among our friends, family, and the local community. Thank you very much for helping me to see the love that so many shared for [him/her].

39. You were so thoughtful to think of us in our time of sorrow. Your wreath was a perfect addition to the funeral, and your note showed your concern for my well-being in this time of loss. I received more than one comment on how lovely the wreath was, so thank you for the beautiful flowers. I also want to thank you for the comfort you brought me. You are very much appreciated.

40. To have my home filled with beautiful flowers was wonderful. To see them all bloom brightly for [him/her] made me often think of the love [he/she] shared with so many people and the lives [he/she] impacted. Thank you for taking the time to pick such lovely flowers and to send them to me. To be surrounded by this love and warmth helped me not only to think of [him/her] when I looked at them, but also to see how much support there is for me, and to know I am not alone in this darkest hour.

For Money and Donations

41. Thank you very much for your financial gift. Because of your donation, we were able to organize a lovely funeral for [name of lost loved one]. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.

42. Only someone who has been through a funeral can understand the financial burden it causes. I was grateful for your monetary contribution and was able to cover some of the funeral expenses. You have my deepest gratitude for your generosity in helping ease the burden. Thank you.

43. Thank you for the most generous and kind gift that you sent. It helped me to give [name of lost loved one] a goodbye that [he/she] deserved. The gift you have given will live on forever in my heart and memories, and has given me lasting comfort because I know that [he/she] had a funeral that [he/she] would have been proud of.

44. Your thoughtful contribution has greatly helped us with funeral expenses for [name of lost loved one]. We both know that they deserve the best, even after they’re gone. Thank you for donating.

45. When a loved one is lost, we feel the pain so acutely. Everything reminds us of them. Every day is hard to face. Finding inner strength, courage, and determination becomes a daily task. This has consumed me lately, the grief and despair at times so deep. I wasn’t thinking of navigating the practical side of things, like the financial impact of losing [him/her]. After receiving your kind donation, I realized that things were going to be okay financially. You really made a difference and allowed me to focus on [name of lost loved one] instead of finances. I send my most heartfelt thanks and gratitude.

46. Thank you for easing the financial strain after the loss of [name of lost loved one]. This was a time when I wasn’t thinking about money, but I certainly needed it. Your kindness allowed me to say the goodbye I needed to say, and the goodbye that [he/she] deserved. You gave me the greatest gift. Thank you so much. I am forever grateful and will remember your kindness, always.

47. Thank you so much for your generous donation to [charity]. [Name of lost loved one] had a huge heart and wanted to spread more kindness in the world. They would be so happy knowing that you donated. Thank you again.

48. Your generous donation to [name of lost loved one]’s favorite charity was touching. It is hard to think about them no longer being here, but what comfort it brings to know that your donation in [his/her] name will help many other people in need. Thank you for making that possible.

49. Thank you for your kind and thoughtful donation to [name of lost loved one]’s chosen charity. It was a cause so close to [his/her] heart and would give [him/her] great comfort to know that [his\her] memory lives on in such a worthy cause. As it does me, I know that [his/her] final act and wishes were to do good in the world, just like [he/she] always did. A perfect way to preserve a memory. Thank you.

50. Your donation to [name of lost loved one]’s charity was incredibly generous of you. Your kind-hearted gesture brought me great comfort. The chosen charity is such a wonderful cause. I hope that it goes on to make a difference in someone else’s life. It brings me comfort to know that although [name of lost loved one]’s chapter has sadly closed, it may open a new one for someone else. Thank you so much.

For Bringing Food

51. There’s nothing more comforting than a warm homemade meal and eating together around the table. Thank you for bringing us food. It means more than you know during these difficult times.

52. It was moving that you thought about my family’s food needs during our time of sorrow. With the pain of losing [name of lost loved one], we would have forgotten to eat. Your delicious gift of food was precisely the thing we needed to make it through a hard time. Thank you for caring.

53. Thank you so much for bringing us some home-cooked meals. Even small tasks take lots of effort right now, so your contribution has made a big difference.

54. It has been a tough few weeks, but having your delicious meals ready for us to eat has made things easier on us. Thank you for the food. It was very soothing.

55. Your food was good for the tummy and for the soul. Thank you so much for your help in making life easier for us right now. Thank you again.

For Coworkers

To an Individual Coworker 56. Thank you for being a great coworker as I’ve been going through this loss. You’ve always comforted me when I needed it and made sure we were still on track at work. You went above and beyond for me, and I’m so grateful for you.

57. These last few weeks have been such a struggle for me. I do not think there is any way I could have prepared for what I just walked through. Your beautiful sympathy card and touching words encouraged me in a difficult time. Your care was a great comfort to me. Thank you.

58. I always knew you were a loyal coworker, but now I know that you are also a compassionate friend. Thank you for encouraging me during this difficult time.

To a Group of Coworkers 59. Thank you for being such a kind and caring group of coworkers and sending the [beautiful flowers/delicious fruit basket]. Your actions have shown me that we have a strong community, and we can always count on each other. I appreciate all of your support.

60. I wanted to thank you all for the support you showed in the loss of my loved one. The [beautiful flower arrangement/delicious fruit basket] you provided for the funeral was a visual reminder of your concern. I am grateful for your support during these difficult times and the kindness you have shown me. Thank you all.

Acts of Service or Support 61. Thank you so much for dedicating your time to us this week. With your help, we were able to make funeral arrangements for [name of lost loved one]. [He/she] would have loved to see us working together and supporting each other as you did. Thank you again.

62. During this time of deep sadness, you lightened the load and gave us the priceless gift of your time so we could focus on what needed to be done due to the loss of [name of lost loved one]. Truly and sincerely, thank you for [task].

63. The loss of a loved one is tough to go through alone, and it has been a struggle. I am so very grateful to have you in my life. Thank you for everything you did to make the funeral go as smoothly as it did. I am deeply indebted to you for your kindness and generosity.

64. My mind is slowly starting to clear, and I am starting to be able to think straight. I do not know how I could have made the funeral plans without you. Thank you for helping me plan everything. You were really there for me, and I will never forget it.

65. We never really know how losing a loved one will affect us, but this loss has hit me hard. Your faithfulness to me in checking on me was a beam of light in my darkness. Thank you for taking the time to understand where I was and caring enough to meet me there.

66. It is unbelievable the way that a loss can completely interrupt your life and take over everything. Thank you for helping maintain sanity in my life by stepping up and [buying my groceries/watching the kids/task done for you]. It was a huge relief to me during a difficult time. I am thankful that I have you in my life, and I am deeply grateful for your support.

67. Watching my loved one suffer was one of the hardest things I have had to do in my life. I cannot tell you how touched I was by your care for them. Your gentleness, kindness, and loving attention brought me comfort when I could personally do very little to help them. Thank you for everything that you do to care for [him/her].

68. When a person is dying, some people find it hard to be around them because it reminds them of their mortality. However, being faced with mortality did not stop you. Thank you for all your visits and the care and concern you expressed for [name of lost loved one] in [his/her] last days. You encouraged [him/her] and us more than you will ever know. You have our deepest gratitude.

Giving a Eulogy 69. Thank you deeply for giving a eulogy for [name of lost loved one]. Your words were touching, and you helped us celebrate [his/her] life in a way I will never forget. I know that somewhere up there, [name of lost loved one] listened and enjoyed it too.

70. To lose a loved one is one of life’s biggest challenges because they are gone from this earth, but our love for them remains with us. We were grateful that you could make it to the funeral. Your presence was a comfort to all. We also want to thank you for the loving words spoken at [name of lost loved one]’s funeral. Your comments were moving and beautifully honored [his/her] memory. We are grateful to you.

To the Funeral Director or People in the Funeral 71. You have such a crucial job, and you probably do not get thanked often enough. It is comforting for a family in sorrow to know that you have taken care of everything. Thank you for stepping up and doing such an excellent job for my loved one’s funeral. There was not one thing left out, and for that, I am incredibly grateful.

72. Thank you for the support and kindness you showed my family in our time of sorrow. We will always remember your presence at the funeral and your service as a pallbearer. We are deeply indebted to you for the kindness you have shown us.

73. It was hard to say goodbye to [name of lost loved one], whom we loved so dearly. Thank you for the kind words in your eulogy. We all knew how wonderful [he/she] was, but your touching sentiments reinforced what we believed. The love and appreciation you expressed moved us all. We offer you our deepest gratitude.

74. I am writing to offer you my deepest gratitude for the beautiful and moving music you provided for [name of lost loved one]’s funeral. Music is an integral part of shaping the environment at a funeral, and you did an incredible job. You have my deepest gratitude and appreciation for the sharing of your musical gift.

75. Pastor, we wanted to send you a note to thank you for all your support and encouragement you gave us in our time of sorrow. Your kind and caring demeanor gave us strength in a trying time. I do not think that we would have made it through this trying time without you. Thank you, and God bless you!

Losing someone can be an emotionally traumatic experience. Traveling through the stages of grief can be painful and emotionally devastating. The first stage begins with denial, where numbness and isolation take over your reality and a sense of lacking in care occurs. Second, anger sets in towards the individual that passed away or those involved in any health treatment. The next stages are bargaining, depression, and acceptance. These can be some of the most complicated, leading to unresolved issues that torment the individual with remorse and guilt, to depression and sadness, until finally, acceptance and healing occur and they can move on.

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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.

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! 

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 .

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.

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.

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To receive credit as the author, enter your information below.

Submit Your Contribution

• Check box to agree to these   submission guidelines .
• I am at least 16 years of age.
• I understand and accept the privacy policy .
• I understand that you will display my submission on your website.

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Read recently submitted eulogy examples

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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85 eulogy examples.

Eulogies are pieces of writing or funeral speeches that are typically shared at a funeral or gathering for someone who has passed away. The speeches often contain a description of the person who passed away, the kind of person they were and personal memories that the person delivering the eulogy finds meaningful to share. That being said, eulogies can be fully customized to fit your writing style and needs and can come in all types of formats. Somber eulogies, eulogies filled with stories, short eulogies, and funny eulogies are all common. The best eulogy speeches are those that are written from the heart.

How to write a eulogy

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, eulogy example for an infant, eulogy examples for a parent, eulogy examples for a wife, eulogy examples for a coworker, eulogy examples for various professions.

Not sure where to start? Don’t know how to write a eulogy for a mother? Friend? Sister? Grandfather? Try to relax and remember that many people don’t know how to write a eulogy, especially for someone important in their life. To start, the main parts to include in a standard eulogy are as follows:

Introduction

A brief introduction usually looks like “Thank you all for being here” or “Thank you all for coming”. You’re acknowledging the audience and thanking them for sharing this time with you and yours.

Short story

Including a short story about your loved one is customary and is usually a story that really shows their personality or what about them made them special. If you’re interested in a lighter eulogy, consider sharing a funny story. For more somber atmospheres, stories about lessons taught by the individual or a story about their achievements is a great alternative. Other popular story topics include major accomplishments, life events, the impact the person had on others, childhood memories and years, stories about traveling, marriage, family, children, or other important stories.

Favorite memories

Similar to the story, it’s not unusual to see eulogies include one or two favorite memories the person had with the deceased. These memories can be of simple or complex moments; this is up to you and what feels right.

Important quote

If your loved one had a favorite passage, verse, quote, or poem, you can include it in the eulogy itself. Alternatively, if you have a passage or quote that you feel is relevant and important to share, you can include that as well.

You can end the eulogy by summarizing the impact this person had on the lives of others and by acknowledging the family and those who chose to attend the services again. It may also feel fitting to end the eulogy with a treasured quote or passage.

Order a eulogy

If you're looking for examples of real eulogies that have been written and read by folks on Ever Loved, here are some outstanding examples. Reading through example eulogies can help inspire you and guide you when it comes time for you to prepare a eulogy.

Shannon McMasters' eulogy

Written by Stephen McMasters Shannon McMasters' eulogy, written and read by her brother, Stephen, is a beautiful testament to a woman who Stephen describes as a "shining star that burned out too soon". Shannon's life was far from easy, but reading about her perseverance, determination, and strength and hearing her brother recount meaningful moments in their life and the impact she had on him and those around her is powerful. Shannon's eulogy is an example for those who are looking to honor the struggles and difficulties their loved one dealt with while remembering other important aspects of their life. Visit Shannon's memorial website to learn more about her life.

Read Shannon's full eulogy below:

Shannon had such a big life and touched so many people, it’s hard to know where to begin. Other than our mother, Shannon was the closest person to me growing up. I was basically raised by my mom and sister. Many of my earliest memories are of the two of us, singing Disney songs together, watching The Breakfast Club on rerun, and of course, fights in the backseat of the car. Later in life, she was the cool big sister. And I wanted to be just like her. I have so many fond memories with Shannon, from the University of Florida to moving cross-country to Los Angeles and on to Atlanta. I would not have done many of these things if not for her. Shannon was my best friend. We laughed at everything together, our sense of humor was nearly identical. We bonded over music sharing two of our top three favorite bands. People even said we look alike, which I was never sure was a compliment or not. The bulk of my life was spent with Shannon; it’s hard to believe she’s gone. She was a shining star that burned out too soon. I don’t know too many people that met Shannon and didn’t have something wonderful to say about her. She truly had a gift to connect to people, understand them, make them feel special and like they mattered. I believe she got this gift from our mother who also had a knack with people. Everyone’s life was brighter having known my sister, especially mine. People think Shannon was lucky to have me, but I was lucky to have her. I know I would not be the person I am today without her. She was always positive and believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. Because of her, my dreams were bigger, my achievements were bigger, my life was bigger. Shannon was fearless in her pursuits; she accomplished so much in her short life. She graduated from UF, double-majoring in Political Science and Theatre. She then graduated from UCLA Law. She obtained degrees from both institutions while enduring bone marrow transplants. Later she went to cosmetology school at the Aveda Institute in Atlanta. I think it’s fair to say Shannon was dealt a rough hand from the start. In 1997, and again in 2004, she was diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia, an extremely rare disease in which the bone marrow quits producing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Even with a donor, chances of survival are still not 100%. Fortunately, I was a match. I was Bone Marrow Boy as Shannon liked to call me. Throughout both transplants, she had to undergo chemotherapy, hospital isolation, and months of recovery before returning to her normal life. Her oncologist declared her in remission in 2012, but she suffered from graft versus host disease, which caused numerous side effects both internally and externally. For years she took cancer-causing immunosuppressant drugs to suppress her immune system so her body would not reject my marrow. Not only did Aplastic Anemia do tremendous damage to her body, it wreaked havoc on her mind. Doctors told Shannon she would not live passed 40 and would likely be barren. I can’t imagine hearing this as an 18 year-old. Living more than half of her life with a terminal illness resulted in clinical depression and PTSD. She was also told she may develop mental disorders later in life due to her extraordinary illness. As a young adult, her way of dealing with the condition was to not be emotional or vulnerable. She dealt with her illness by pushing it aside and pursuing her academic and career goals, leading many of us to forget that she was ever sick at all. Music, painting, and dancing also played significant roles in my sister’s healing. Shannon viewed dance as therapy. In 2014, she was a research participant in one of my school projects. She tied her connection to music and dancing directly to her illness. She stated, quote, “It’s where problems don’t exist. When you’re not thinking of everything else going on in your life, therefore your anxiety is reduced. Moving and dancing to music makes you happy. You’re not feeling depressed. It’s all about the whole getting lost in the moment. That’s a lot of what Buddhist practice is, staying in the present.” My sister seemed to have found peace in those moments of presence on the dance floor. She also found peace through painting, which she spent a lot time doing the last five years. I think that’s one of the many reasons we all loved Shannon, she made us feel special every moment we were with her. We were present because we felt her presence. In the summer of 2015, Shannon had her first psychotic break. Later that year, she was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder borderline Schizoaffective Disorder. Mental illness would prove to be the battle of Shannon’s life. She really struggled those last few years. During this time, her mind was changing and she was helpless to stop or reverse it. She lost many of her close connections, not because she OR we didn’t want them, but because she was trying to navigate her new reality that included mania, paranoia, and delusions. Losing our mother in 2021 and her dogs Osa and Kiki back-to-back was just too much to handle. She was hurting and trying to survive the only way she knew how, but I know she did not want to hurt herself and what happened was an accident. She told me not too long ago that she knew she was never going to be the same again, and she hated her illness and what it had done to her. It just isn’t fair what happened to Shannon. In the end, I think she felt misunderstood and no longer accepted, and that’s what hurts the most. I think she felt alone, like she didn’t have anyone. That’s the tragedy of mental illness, not just because of what she went through, but it’s hard for us to understand and even when we try to help, relationships suffer. Unfortunately there were no easy answers or quick fixes, and I underestimated her ability to cope with her illness. The transplants may have saved her life before, I just wish I could’ve saved it again. Sometimes I feel I didn’t do enough and maybe I’ll always feel guilt for that. Shannon recently told me she prayed to God frequently to take her. I think she was ready to go. I think she has been ready for a while. She felt she had a bigger purpose beyond this place. She came into our lives briefly, laughed with us, cried with us, danced with us, made us smile, made us feel special, then left as quickly as she arrived. Maybe that was her purpose here, to have a positive impact on all of us by leaving us better than she found us. I suppose death is what makes life beautiful, knowing that our time here is finite, to make the most of it and remember what is important. Shannon reminded us of that. When she died, a part of me died too, but a part of her and our mother will always live on in me because they make up so much of who I am. While my heart is broken that she is gone and I will never see my sister again in this life, a part of me feels that she is no longer suffering and is at peace with our mother in God’s kingdom. Some birds simply aren’t meant for this world, their feathers are too bright. That’s how I’ll always remember Shannon, and God called her home to be with our mother.

Juanita Pearce's eulogy

Written by Christopher Cost Juanita Pearce's eulogy, written with love and forethought by her grandson Christopher, is a wonderful example for those who are looking for a unique way to deliver a eulogy for a loved one. Christopher gives beautiful insight into Juanita's life by describing one of his earliest memories, describing how she was throughout her life, and what kind of emotional impact she had on all those she knew. Her dedication to her family and willingness to sacrifice for the good of others is detailed throughout his tribute. Additionally, Christopher takes the time to address members of the family, a beautiful departure from the standard eulogy format that makes Juanita's eulogy incredibly heartwarming and unique. Visit Juanita's memorial website to learn more about her life.

Read Juanita's full eulogy below:

Good morning. I am Christopher, Juanita’s grandson from her daughter, Debbie. My nearly 42- year life is right about the length of the job she retired from. She made it to her 89th birthday and then some. From her birth in 1933 to her retirement was just around 60 years. I still have 18 years to get to that point. A lot can happen within that time span. Memory and Truth are funny things. My memory tells me that of all the family, I feel I may have spent the most time with her. The truth is that of all the people that have been in my life, my grandma is the one that has been the most present and participatory. One of my earliest memories of time with my grandma, which is a bit fuzzy at this point in my life, is going to work with her during a summer I was staying with her. She was a manager at Southwestern Bell and visitors had to wear a special badge. What I remember is that I was playing with the alligator clip on the badge and managed to pinch and hurt my finger. I remember my grandma and many other grandmas running to my rescue. I remember my grandma taking me to see these giant catfish that were bigger than me at the time. I remember that I was being a dumb kid and fell and hurt my wrist and she found a way to get me patched up. I still have the scar. My earlier memories may be fuzzy and even failing me, but the truth isn’t: my grandma was always there for me, no matter what. For many of you, perhaps family most of all, that knew grandma before our car accident in 2004, there may be memories of a woman with strong beliefs. You may have memories of her sharing her opinion, and perhaps even memories of some strong judgments and prejudices. For those of us that were especially close to her, we likely also have memories of her always learning and growing into a person that overcame her prejudices. What I remember is she became a woman that even with her opinions, and attitudes, and judgements, never let that get in the way of doing the right thing and rendering aide and support when it was needed. The truth is I’ve only collected two-thirds the memories that my mother and uncle can recall. Her elder sister and only surviving sibling Helen may be able to recall my grandmother’s entire lifetime as memories. The truth is memories are but glimpses and moments and no singular memory or even the collection of memories from a single person will ever adequately define an individual. A lot of you may be blessed by only the last few years of my grandma’s life. I dare say they may be some of the richest blessings you may receive. Truth be told, for as long as I have memories of her, they are made up of sacrifice and offering, one after another. Be it driving to Texas to take care of her grandchildren when my uncle and aunt had to go on a trip or an overnight drive into the mountains of Arkansas to help my mom care for me and my sisters. Or middle of the night runs to the emergency room when one of my sisters or myself had an emergency and mom needed support. No matter the reason, no matter what she was doing, my memories are of a woman who was always there for her family. These last 18 years of my grandma’s life were some of her most challenging. Yet, while she always brought her ornery and cantankerous personality, she also brought every bit of survival fight and strength of character to fill my memories with a woman who scaled an ever-increasing mountain of health and physical and mental challenges. For the 8- and one-half years I directly cared for my grandma following the accident, we tackled daily physical and occupational therapy at my parents’ house and then at the clinic until she could finally return to her own home. We later battled through a relocation to find her and me a new home that was better suited for her ongoing needs and care, to only then face breast cancer before getting into thyroid surgeries. My mother then took over for a few years on daily care before my sister Rebecca took over principal care and support in 2020, just as the pandemic hit. Most of you have your own memories of these last two or three years that I ask for you to recall as I share what I believe of the last few years of my grandma’s life. I believe the truth is that our individual and collective memories tell of a woman that continued to be there no matter what the situation was. They tell of her being a person of support, care, and growth both personally and as an example for everyone around her. And I believe that she will continue to be that person in spirit through the end of each of our lives and the lives of each life we touch. I would like now to speak directly to a some of our family that have been part of Grandma’s daily life and were crucial in the ongoing fight my grandma put up these last 18 years. Kylie, You may never understand how important you were to Grandma Juanita. You were born just ahead of our car accident that changed her life forever. By the time she came to your grandma’s and grandpa’s house for her recovery, you were a source of ongoing reason for her to keep going. I hope that you will from time to time calm your mind and heart to just let her example of love and value for family guide you as you enter your adulthood. RyLee and Lora, She didn’t play favorites often--I should know because I did spend so much time with her--but she does have a special connection with each of you. Ava, Your video calls lighted your Grandma Juanita’s day and gave her a bright smile. To Owen, You don’t understand this today, but Grandma Juanita will always be with you. You were her source of strength and inspiration to keep fighting when her life was turned upside down going from living alone to living with you, your two big sisters and brother, your mom and dad, and the dogs. It was not an easy adjustment for her, but she was able to make that transition because of you. And as your Grandma Debbie and mommy will remind you in the years to come, your partner-in-crime will always be with you, even if you cannot remember her. And, to Kaison and Gavin, the twins, You brought her fresh spirit when her life was yet again shaken with a relocation and then her stroke earlier this year. To my dad, David, Despite your own health, you found the energy to help grandma with her laundry and as always, the two of you continued to keep each other on your toes in conversation. To my brother-in-law Matthew, you helped to clean up messes and did a lot of the heavy lifting with RyLee to relocate her lifetime of things to the new house and storage. To her sister Helen, I know that having a close relationship with you, and your brothers Dillard and Dalford when they were still with us, was very important to her. And, to all of grandma’s family and friends with whom she spoke or saw, there have been so many “cooks in the kitchen,” but she was always grateful for each of you. You each played a role greater than you may know in her ability to continue bringing us blessings and love for 89 years. To my sister Rebecca, who possesses a soul of infinite compassion and caregiving, I want to thank you for the life you were able to let our grandma keep. I may have taken care of her first, but you stepped up and took care of her when she needed support and assistance that allowed her to retain her dignity and privacy in a way a grandson couldn’t provide. And, finally, to her daughter, my mother, You’ve been here as a coordinator and source of medical knowledge and wisdom that completed out and has been no less important than the direct care Rebecca and I provided. Life has thrown you one personal or family health challenge after another, and you have continuing challenges in front of you. Always remember that you too can always calm your mind and heart to allow your mom’s strength and guidance to pick you up when you’re in doubt or facing uncertainty. Death is not the end! It is merely another step we must all take. For those of faith and spirituality that believe Juanita is in Heaven with God, death on Earth is but her means to move to that eternal life. And, for all of us, her death is merely a transition to an ongoing presence on Earth for as long as we each continue to keep her memory within us and grow from her and for as long as you each keep her as part of your truth. In a few hours, some of us will go on a bit of drive to Anadarko to inter her body with her parents and two of her brothers. For as far back as I can remember, this was an annual pilgrimage over Memorial Day weekend. Each year, I can recall the same story as we would pass by Sonic on the highway. Grandma would always remind us that she grew up in a house behind that Sonic. I don’t think that specific Sonic is still there. But for any of you that join us for the burial this afternoon, as you enter Anadarko and see what looks like an old Sonic on your right, let it be a reminder of how precious memories are. For me, I will always remember my grandmother as the woman that took me to the store to get hamburger meat, go home and cook spaghetti and Ragu, spread towels on the floor in front of the TV, and watch movies while we ate on those towels. No matter what memory of her beliefs, opinions, and judgments, I will always know the truth is Grandma loved me, her family, and her friends. The truth is she wasn’t only present, she was actively participating when present. It is in great part through her example and pruning that I am the person I am today. I thank you, Grandma, for every gift and lesson and moment you gave me, and there are nearly 42 years of them to draw on. I love you and carry you with me always!

Barbara Burton Kleinert's eulogy

Written by Christine Maszkiewicz This beautiful eulogy is a wonderful example of how to interweave testament to someone's personality and character with the core occassions of their life. Barbara's eulogy is able to paint a thorough picture of what she enjoyed, what she was passionate about, how she was as a mother, her educational and career choices, and so much more. It's clear that anyone who had the privilege to listen to this eulogy (or to read it in its written form) was given a wonderful opportunity to learn deeply about who Barbara was as a mother, partner, friend, and person. To learn more about Barbara's life, visit her memorial website .

Read Barbara's full eulogy below:

Hello everyone, I am Christie Maszkiewicz, Barbara’s daughter. Today we come to honor and remember the life of Barbara Kleinert. My mother passed away four months exactly from the day my father passed away this year. We sit here in the same spot where we held his memorial back in February. It’s surreal. My family is still dealing with raw heartache from his death and now we are all feeling the pain from hers as well. They both left a void in our hearts. My brother and I are now without our dear parents. My nephews have lost both grandparents on their father’s side. It’s been a tough year so far so I want to thank you all for coming out to remember Barbara and to support this family once again while we are all trying to come to terms with such a great loss. I know many people could not make the trip to Colorado for health reasons or travel reasons. Barbara’s sister Laurie, brother Dave and niece Jenny all are here in spirit and watching online from the east coast and beyond. They wish they could be here today. They joined my brother and I and our spouses in the days leading up to my mother’s passing. We sat around her bed and talked with mom and reminisced about our time with Mom. At times I know for sure that Mom heard and reacted to what we were saying. She was surrounded with family and love in her last days and to me that is the most important thing. Love you Laurie, Dave and Jenny. Thank you, guys, for being there and for being here virtually today. My mom, Barbara was a sincere and warm person. She was a daughter, a grandchild, a niece and then a big sister. She was a close friend, a parishioner, a nurse and a teacher. She was a wife, a sister-in-law, an aunt, and a grandma. To many in her life she was a listener, a singer and a hand to hold. To me she was my mom. My mom loved to care for others throughout her life. My aunt Laurie told me one of her earliest memories was Mom, known as Barbie to Laurie, picking her up out of her crib when she was upset one night, holding and comforting her. During my mom’s childhood she grew up feeling unseen and unheard; she felt she didn’t really fit in or live up to her mother’s expectations. Her heart though was full of love, she turned those feelings of hurt into good. She reached out and helped others to make them feel seen, to make them feel heard. Her passion growing up was very much the church and music. She learned piano but found the guitar to be her instrument of choice and she used it throughout her life to bring song into a youth group or on a mission trip. When she was older, she went to nursing school to help others. Giving of herself was her calling. In her mother’s last year’s my mom was by her side and took care of her and the two eventually made peace. My mother was persistent about peace and understanding between those she loved. Mom was always involved in hobbies that helped others; she even met my dad through her volunteering activities. They met at the U.S.O. in New Jersey where she volunteered. Through her giving spirit she and my dad saw each other through some rough early years. Mom worked nights so dad could work and go to school. She juggled raising a young son while working long hours and supporting her husband. Eventually when a second child came along, she stopped working to be a stay-at-home mother and continue supporting her husband as he continued working and pursuing a Master’s Degree. My brother and I don’t have early memories of daycare, we have memories of being home with mom. Memories of being loved and cared for by her. That was a sacrifice she made, family was very important to her and I know we both appreciate the fact that our parents made that choice. When she went back into the workforce, she had to volunteer to get experience, since a Nursing degree wasn’t enough apparently. She volunteered and eventually worked in the school district with severely handicapped children. The passion she had for helping others became a lifelong career. Mom was always devoted to helping others, through her church St. Michaels in Colorado Springs, she joined the prison Ministry Kairos. I remember as a child answering the phone on weekends when mom was away on a Kairos Retreat. I very politely told the caller that mom was not here right now, she was in prison, could I take a message? My parents always got a chuckle out of that. As a child I connected with my mom’s fun spirit. She was childlike in the sense that she found wonder and beauty in the world where ever she went. She loved animals and nature. As child she had a bunny named Thumper that she adored. Later when she married my dad they acquired a pet skunk named Flower….I think we can figure out what name a pet deer may have acquired. Growing up we couldn’t have a dog or a cat since dad was allergic. With two kids and a wife wanting a critter he and mom figured out a way to make a guinea pig work with dad’s allergies. We had a spotted female named Cutie for a time and then we brought home Skeezics, a red spiky haired guinea pig. My mother had so much fun with him. We’d let him run around the living room and race down the hallway of the house. Many times mom had to help dad dismantle the huge sleeper sofa to get the guinea pig out from underneath where he was hiding. My mom would also sing various songs to the guinea pig, especially at treat time. That little pig would squeak so loudly when he heard the song….”What Shall we get for the Pig” since he knew he was getting a tasty treat. When we moved from CO to VA it was very hard on our family. Mom made sure to help us kids adjust and get involved in activities. As a horse crazy 8-year-old I wanted my own pony. The next best thing, riding lessons. My mom was at every single riding lesson camera in hand. She stood at the fence cheering me on as I learned new things like cantering or jumping. When I had my first fall she rushed to my side and as the old adage tells you, encouraged me to get back on. I’m sure as a mother that goes against many instincts to encourage a child to continue something that injured them. That next week she got me up early every morning so I could soak in a warm bath to ease my pain. In VA my mother continued with Kairos Prison missions but also got involved in Therapeutic riding for special needs children. I joined her a few times at the farm helping with the horses. She loved working with the children. They would come alive up on horseback, it relaxed them and they responded to the games mom and other volunteers played to engage the children. The smiles were just as bright on her face as they were on the children’s. My mother continued to love critters even after our family didn’t have any more pets. Our deck in the back of the house was not our deck. We didn’t have patio furniture or a hot tub out there. Nope, we had birds and squirrels lined up on every single railing eating the seeds and peanuts placed out there by mom. At night we ended up having raccoons at times. One evening there must have been 12 raccoons eating the seeds and other goodies mom fed to the critters. A special guest was Petey, a Virginia Opossum. This little critter loved noodles with BBQ sauce a specialty my mother whipped up for for her culinary delight. Mom spent hours taking photos of this sweet little creature. One day the opossum was still there in the morning and we watched her run off the deck to the underside of the front porch. She came back out with 10 babies clinging to her back and headed off into the woods. Mom made sure we all there to see it and she took pictures of the spectacle. Growing up loving animals just like my mother I didn’t have to look far to find a fuzzy or feathery friend to enjoy. My mother would often take in the birds that flew head first into the window. She would let them rest in a darkened aquarium until they came out of shock and then released them back to the woods. One such incident occurred with a little Tufted Titmouse, aptly named Tufty. He hit the window and needed help. When mom went to catch him, the little guy flew into the house and into the powder room that I was just exiting. My mom and I spent 15 minutes trying to catch that little bird to get him back outside. As I got older and moved on to college and beyond, I acquired the pets I didn’t have growing up, the fuzzy allergy triggering ones. My mother and father loved their grand-dog Spencer. He was a silly little Jack Russell Terrier. Mom never begrudged the fact that I didn’t want children of my own she accepted her four legged grandchildren. Every time I brought Spencer over you would hear the shrill voice of mom bellowing “Grand-Dog! Grand-dog”. He certainly was a spoiled grandchild. When I finally got my pony, my mother was there to meet her, happy as a clam to see me with Daenerys and to share the moment. My mother was constantly documenting our lives with photos. This was before digital photos which now everyone takes pictures of EVERYTHING. My mom invented that; out would come the camera and us kids would groan. Now we have boxes and boxes of memories to sort through that I know we will cherish as we walk down memory lane and thank her for being the shutterbug she was. Kodak stayed in business for a long time because of mom! My mother was the ever-present cheerleader and moral compass of our family. She brought a light to our lives, she often instigated fun but was also patient when we stepped out of line. Surviving my teenage years is a testament to the patience and love my mother had for her family. One hard part I’ve learned about losing someone is having to go through their belongings. Though I will state this act can shed light on memories that will warm the heart. So honestly this burden is one my brother and I are happy to take on. While looking through some books I came across a note mom wrote. She made many notes and comments in nearly every book she read. This particular note though was about parenting. She wrote that parents will make many mistakes. These mistakes shouldn’t really matter if the child knew they were loved. And mom, yes….we knew we were loved. Very much so. This year has been a hard year but with all the tragedy and difficult times we’ve had to endure, this year has been a year full of love, last moments and memories. I cherish these memories and they bring me comfort that there was so much love. I hope each of us can reflect on the memories we have of my Mom, Barbara….and that those feelings can bring us all comfort. We will love you forever Mom. We will love you forever.

Barbara Fritsche Olmanson's eulogy

Written by Leif Olmanson Written in the form of detailed descriptions of different memories Leif had with his mother, Barbara's eulogy is a perfect example of the how the accumulation of small moments woven together end up creating a beautiful landscape of a life well lived. Leif's description of each memory that he cherished with his mom is a perfect way for the reader to gain an understanding of the type of woman Barbara was and the effect she had on those around her. For those looking to share a eulogy that's built on memories, Leif's eulogy is a wonderful place to gain inspiration. To learn more about Barbara's life, visit her memorial website .

Read the full eulogy below:

Remembrances of Mom: When she was ten years old our mother was baptized at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in New Ulm, but I think one reason she chose the Church of the Holy Communion for our family was because of the beauty of the church and its history. I recall being told that the ceiling was designed to look like an upside-down ship—basically a vessel to bring the parishioners to heaven. And that the stained-glass windows came from England by sailing ships and overland by ox cart. The Dodd family grave in the back of the church evokes pioneer history. Mom had a keen interest in local history, and this Episcopal Church building is a living reminder of that history. The obituary focuses on Mom’s love of travel, especially their long trip to Burma and their service to a disadvantaged part of the world under difficult conditions. I think this was a formative experience for them—at times a trial by fire. In some ways, they must have been different people by the time they returned to resume their life in St. Peter. It was a few months after they returned to St. Peter that I (Leif) was born, and my little sister Lori followed shortly. With six kids you would think that the adventures would stop, but that was not the case. Although sometimes they traveled without the kids, often they brought all of us or some of us along. There were memorable trips to the Boundary Waters, Canada, the Black Hills, Florida, Yucatan, and the Cayman Islands. These trips instilled a sense of travel in all of us. Long after we all left home, when Mom was 70 and my sister Trudi was 40, she decided to fulfill her bucket list. It started with Trudi and Thor traveling with my parents to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Other adventures included Peru - Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca, Panama (with Trudi and Eric), Norway and Germany (with Trudi and Eric), and Trinidad and Tobago (with Trudi, Leif, and grandkids Britta and Anders) where I made the mistake of calling my parents elderly when we were inquiring about a boat trip. I was set straight by Mom right away but had reason to be concerned since the docks were in bad shape and the captain had to time the waves to get them on and offboard. There were also several trips to Mexico with each of her children and several grandchildren joining them. The most memorable trip was for Mom’s 80th Birthday where Trudi and I were with them for the entire 21-day trip and all but one of the other siblings and Anders joined for a week. We started in Puerto Morales (a great discovery and location we returned to many times for easier traveling as our parents aged) and then went to Tulum. From there we headed to Xcalak (which was one mile from Belize) and ended up staying at a scuba diver training facility which was cool since they had students from around the world and for the diving trips, we were outnumbered by diving instructors. Mom and Dad enjoyed the snorkeling and bird-watching trip. For such a small fishing village they had some great restaurants with some interesting locally sourced gourmet dishes. We were having a great time and I was using my iPod to text my brother Thor to tell him to come to Xcalak. He misunderstood my messaging and indicated he would meet us in Punta Allen. When Mom heard that we were off to meet Thor in Punta Allen. The travel books said the road from Tulum to Punta Allen was anywhere from 1 to 4 hours depending on road conditions. Well from Xcalak we had a 4-hour drive to Tulum and what turned out to be another 4 hours to Punta Allen. (This long drive was the first time I noticed signs of Alzheimer’s in my dad.) Amazing how well my mom and dad were able to cover it from us. So back to the story. It had been raining so the roads were more like small lakes than a road. With mud puddles covering most of the road and as it turns out it was the route for the adventure Jeep tours you would see if you would go on a cruise or to a big resort. So, there we are in our Jetta size car with luggage and five passengers, Anders on the hump in the back seat. Since the few people that lived on this route did not like the jeeps ripping up the road, they would put in Jeep size road bumps to slow them down. So, every time we came upon one, I would stop and have everyone get out of the car to make it over the bump. After we finally got to Punta Allen the streets were not any better since they were also flooded. We met up with Thor and his girlfriend at the time and had a wonderful time with some great food and company. The adventure continued with Schelli, and Lori joining us Back in Puerto Morelos and trips to Chichen itza to recreate childhood photographs and Ek Balam. A great and memorable trip. Other memorable occasions: Dad and Amby were working on the Ford Model As that were being used for Schelli and Amby’s Wedding parade. Right before the ceremony, Mom saw Amby and took him into the bathroom of the church and said no man would marry her daughter with greasy hands, so she helped him scrub the grease off. When she was babysitting Marty when he was 3, he helped her pick berries and make jam. When Schelli picked him up, he had dark red around his mouth, and she said “the jam must have been good”. Mom gave her a funny look and brought a washcloth over and said, I think he got into a Woodtick that fell off the dog. Picking Morel mushrooms, canoeing, her amazing cooking inspired by traveling including braunschweiger dip, kawswe, elderberry Kiekle, Burmese curry, homemade sauerkraut, and her conch ceviche Mom was always willing to go, whether it was dancing, fishing, going to the lake and tubing behind the boat, and paddle boarding at 80, and they really enjoyed garage sales. Mom was an anchor for our family. She took care of us when we were sick, fed us, taught us about nature and history, and encouraged our interests. She was the keeper of holiday traditions, adapting her more German Christmas traditions by adventurously adding her husband’s annual Norwegian delicacy: LUTEFISK. Regular Christmas guests were: Violet, Charles, and Pauline Kinson (Violet’s shrimp paste), Bernie Bornhagen (black mustard for the lutefisk), and other friends we adopted along the way. One Christmas when we all arrived Mom said they had noticed an awful smell in the house. They remembered their Springer Spaniel dog (Spike) had a dead squirrel in the yard. Sure, that she must have brought the carcass into the house they did a thorough search of the house and to their surprise, they discovered a piece of lutefisk under a chair. The dog must have grabbed it out of the bucket it was soaking in. Dad told us that he rinsed it off and put it back in the bucket. We were pretty sure he was joking. Lots of great memories and we will miss her greatly!

Juliann Therese Weimholt's eulogy

Written and read by Josef Weimholt In Juliann's eulogy, Josef does an excellent job at delivering many of the details you'd find in a eulogy in a loving, descriptive, and beautiful way. In addition to thanking the community, describing his mother's impact on those around her and her character, Josef includes a beautiful and creative tribute to his mother with additional context and pledges for what he aims to do in the future to honor his mother. To learn more about Juliann's life, visit her memorial website .

Good morning. Before I begin, I want to take the opportunity, on behalf of our entire family, to thank all of you for being here today—in person, in this beautiful, old church that our mom loved so much, or virtually—to help us celebrate our mom’s life. We’d like to thank everyone who travelled from out of state to be here today, including those on our dad’s side of the family who traveled from as far away as California. Let that sink in for a second—there are people here today who flew from warm, sunny California. To Chicago. In February. To attend the funeral of an in-law, essentially. Now, I know they came in part to support our dad in his time of grief, but I think it really speaks to the impact our mom had on people. And that’s been evident as well in the flood of messages we’ve received since Mom passed, which have come not just from close friends and family, as you’d expect, but from those who worked with her briefly decades ago, those who met her only recently—including members of the Breakers community in Edgewater, where our parents have lived the past couple of years—from friends (and friends of friends) of my sisters and mine who may have met her only once at one of our weddings years ago. So many have reached out with a kind note, a memory, a heartfelt message about how our mom affected them. As everyone here can attest, to meet Mom was to know instantly what a beautiful person she was, inside and out; a kind, caring soul; sharp, funny, and fun to be around; someone who brightened the lives of all those around her. I heard it said recently that grief is simply unexpressed love. The moral, I think, is that grief isn’t something we should avoid or try to overcome, but something we should embrace. If grief really is just a reflection of the love we feel for the person we lost, then we should hope to always feel some measure of grief for our departed loved ones. I like that sentiment; I think there’s some wisdom there, and perhaps some solace for those of us who are grieving our mom’s loss so deeply still. But it got me thinking about that notion of "unexpressed love." Unexpressed love: that was a foreign concept to Mom. Like our dad, she never missed an opportunity to tell my sisters and I how much she loved us, how proud she was of us, how happy we made her, how lucky she was to be our mom. And we always reciprocated—in person, on the phone, over text (including, in recent years, through liberal use of heart emojis in any text with Mom). Now, I don’t know whether that has lessened our grief any, but I do know that I speak for my sisters, our dad, our Aunt Mary Kay, and everyone who was on the other end of those exchanges with Mom, when I say that we are incredibly grateful for each of those moments, each of those expressions of love that my mom would simply not let go unexpressed. It was in that spirit that I set out some time ago to put down in writing exactly what my mom meant to me—an impossible task, to be sure. I regret deeply that I didn’t finish it before she passed, but I’m grateful I can share it here today with her and with all of you. I initially intended for it to be a poem, as that’s the language that she loved best, but I’m afraid I didn’t inherit her poetic voice (or talents). So I ended up with something else, I’m not sure what exactly. But I call it, “My Mother’s Son.” My Mother’s Son I knew it was coming, every time I would visit Mom at work—usually to ask for money for the movies or to pick up the car to meet friends or for some other equally important reason—never just to say hi, or ask about her day, or tell her how much I loved her. (There would always be time for that later, right?) “You must be Julie’s son!” It was probably my nose or the shape of my face; perhaps the hazel eyes or brown, curly hair. At first, I was annoyed. I didn’t want to resemble a short, middle-aged woman—beautiful though she was—and rued the fact that I didn’t inherit a chiseled jawline or muscular physique instead. So I usually just smiled sheepishly. But beyond an amusement at the resemblance, there was something else evident in their tone. “You must be Julie’s son!” The front desk staff, her fellow nurses, the doctors and residents, the custodial workers—they always made sure to tell me how much they loved working with Mom—how kind and skilled she was with patients, how supportive and generous she was with colleagues. They were quick with an anecdote or an expression of admiration. Eventually, I came to embrace the comparisons—proudly wrapping my arm around her (and sometimes giving her a playful pat on top of her head, which by then came up only to my chest) whenever a new friend, colleague, or stranger remarked on the resemblance. In her later years, as her health declined and the Parkinson’s loomed like a storm cloud growing nearer and more ominous by the day, I would reflect often on the connection I shared with my mom, on what it meant to be her son. Apart from any physical traits she may have passed down, I knew she would be leaving for her children and grandchildren something truly precious and rare. Something that couldn’t be simply inherited, but would need to be earned—brought to fruition through the countless small acts and daily decisions that make up a person’s life. Now that she has passed, and I think about the man I strive to be for my own family—for my wife, Sarah, and our daughter, Tessa, who will grow up without having truly known her Ama—I find in my mom’s legacy a clarion call, a beacon guiding my way, a pledge I must continually renew: I will be kind to friends and strangers alike—especially the less fortunate, the marginalized, and the forgotten among us. I will be generous with my time, energy, and resources, and will commit to causes greater than myself. I will laugh, loud and often. My patience will know no bounds. I will smile constantly and exude warmth so that others are uplifted even when I’m down. I will be selfless and unfailingly loyal. I will not swoon at the sight of blood, but will swoon over a mariachi band (or really any live music). I will create. I will nurture. I will dance with enthusiasm. I will be open to all things, and constantly seek out new adventures, foods, cultures, and people. I will find happiness in the simple things, and peace in nature. When my health fails me or curveballs inevitably come my way, I will put on a brave face to spare my loved ones their worry, and will fight with a strength and tenacity that will make them proud. I will laugh some more, through everything. I will be grateful for all that I have been given. I will love, and be loved, and the world will be a richer, better place for my having been here. I will, I pray, truly and forever be my mother’s son.

Richard "Dick" Floyd Messalle's memorial speech

Written and read by Renee Messalle In this memorial speech, there are plenty references to memories, passions, hobbies, and delights that Richard took part in during his time. These references help paint a loving and broad picture of what Richard's life was like and the kind of person he was. In addition to the personal stories shared, Renee also includes a beautiful poem at the start which kicks off the metaphor of the Train of Life for the rest of the memorial speech. To learn more about Richard's life, visit his memorial website .

Welcome everyone. Thank you so much for coming today. Carl and I wanted to share a few memories about our Dad before the service started. I wanted to start off by reading this lovely poem that I saw recently. Train of Life At birth, we boarded the train of life and met our parents, and we believed that they would always travel by our side. However, at some station, our parents would step down from the train, leaving us on life's journey alone. As time goes by, some significant people will board the train: siblings, other children, friends, and even the love of our life. Many will step down and leave a permanent vacuum. Others will go so unnoticed that we won't realize that they vacated their seats! This train ride has been a mixture of joy, sorrow, fantasy, expectations, hellos, goodbyes, and farewells. A successful journey consists of having a good relationship with all passengers, requiring that we give the best of ourselves. The mystery that prevails is that we do not know at which station we ourselves will step down. Thus, we must try to travel along the track of life in the best possible way -- loving, forgiving, giving, and sharing. When the time comes for us to step down and leave our seat empty -- we should leave behind beautiful memories for those who continue to travel on the train of life. And let’s remember to thank our God for giving us life to participate in this wonderful train ride. I am so glad that I was on my Dad’s train for 51 years. And thanks to those that joined the train at one time or another. His stop and his step down was so very unexpected for us – but he left so many great memories, and we are so grateful he stepped off on a high note! We have all loved hearing what others thought of my Dad – and am so happy that it was what we knew of him. The prevailing theme – he was such a kind and gentle and smart person. And several people said he was a “Renaissance Man”. And I totally agree – he loved to learn and knew a lot about everything. He was so happy in his recent move to Greenspring where he had a big office surrounded by at least 1,000 of his books, all in one room. And most importantly my Dad loved math and data. He had a bachelor and master’s degree in Math. He worked for the Navy using his math skills. And in going through things in his office – we saw that my Dad doodled math everywhere. And he did at least a sudoku a day. I have great memories of him helping us as kids with homework, which he enthusiastically did, and especially of course with math. My high school friends even fondly remember his tutoring us in math. After retirement, he even spent many years tutoring various students – even his grandsons. Just recently he helped Brandon and me with some math homework and sent us detailed descriptions and steps to help us. And he was still the volunteer Treasurer for the Four Corners neighborhood association, which he had been doing for many years. After grad school with his advanced degree in Mathematics, he met my Mom on their first day of work at US Navy, David Taylor Model Basin as they were both trying to find the math lab! My Mom worked there until I was born. And then, when I was looking for a summer job in college, I decided to apply where my Dad worked. This turned out to be the start of my government career as well, and I eventually worked in the same Directorate with my Dad for the summers and then for 7 years after college. It was a great chance for us to know and see each other in different ways, learn what my Dad did at work, have similar co-workers, etc. After my Dad retired, he had so much fun taking liberal art classes at the community college. He also loved going to see plays with my Mom, so they both ushered at various local theaters for over 30 years. And he even directed and acted in some community theater plays. Despite my Dad’s quiet demeanor – he definitely had had a wild and adventurous side …. He loved rollercoasters. Even as recent as about 5- 10 years ago, he was still going on roller coasters and rides at Disney and Universal with my husband and niece and Brandon, and even on the water slides at the water parks. When we were younger, he took us on a hot air balloon ride. He loved to bike – biked to work, biked with friends, biked long distance rides of 100 miles, and biked as a family. He did Hang gliding for a while – and even bought one. I remember playing in fields while my Dad would hang glide off of small hills. He even bought a Unicycle. He also loved science fiction, and he introduced us to Star Wars as kids. And I was able to take my parents to the new Disney Star Wars theme park in February, right before Covid. And I just took him to the movie theater at Thanksgiving to see the new Dune movie, which he loved. My Dad was always around and involved when we were younger. We always had family dinners, he made breakfast every Sunday (where I was introduced to and then loved scrapple), he washed the dishes every night for my Mom, and was always willing and around to assist us with our school and homework. And then he continued to be present and involved in my life as a grandfather to Brandon, especially since we lived somewhat close by. He set such a great example for me of what a father and what a spouse should be. And I am so happy that he met the love of his life, and that he and my Mom had such a wonderful marriage of 53 years – best friends - truly soul mates. In summary, my Dad had a fun life on that train for 79 years, sharing 55 of those years (70% of his life) with my Mom! He left many great memories for me and for others. Thanks Dad – I love you and you will be missed.

Following you will find some eulogy examples, with most of them being short eulogy examples. Shorter eulogies can become longer simply by adding in stories and memories that you hold dear or different aspects of your loved one’s life you’d like to share.

Thank you all for being here today. I’m honored to share this time with [Name]’s friends, family, and others in remembering [his/her] life.

I met [Name] [number] years ago at [description of meeting location]. I immediately liked [Name]’s [sense of humor / personality / presence] and knew we would make fast friends. Once, when we were [description of memory], [Name] turned to me and said “[Quote]”.

[Longer description of memory]

After we met, I [description of life after meeting person] and [he/she] went on to [description of what they did]. When [Name] met [spouse], everything changed. [He/she] became [description] and was one of the best [husbands/wives/fathers/mothers] a family could ask for.

I know I’ll always miss my best friend and that no one can replace [him/her]. With that, I’d like to leave you all with one of [Name]’s favorite quotes, by [author]: “[quote]”. Thank you.

[Name] was my best friend, confidante, partner in crime, and one of the best people I’ve ever had the honor to know. I first met [Name] in [location] and we quickly became fast friends. We shared a love of [hobby] and a desire to [description], something that very few others connected with me on.

[Name] taught me a lot about [description], something I will never take for granted. Our other friends refer to [Name] and describe [him/her] as [description]. What I know for certain is that anyone who knew [Name], knew how [brave/special/funny/kind/unique] they were. You don’t meet someone like that every day.

One of my most cherished memories with [Name] was the time we [description]. If not that, then it’s definitely the time we [description].

I want to thank you all for gathering today in honor of [Name], I know it would’ve meant the world to [him/her]. Let’s honor [his/her] memory by continuing to spread love in this world and to try our best each and every day. Thank you.

For those who don't know me, [Name] and I have been friends for practically our entire lives. We grow up in [town] together, lived down the street from one another, and went to the same schools from elementary to high school. We planned on going to the same college together (but [Name] was smarter than I and got into some schools I didn't). We weren't just friends, we were [brothers/sisters].

When I was younger, [Name] used to take me to [area]. We'd play [game] and sit out in the field, talking about [subject] for hours on end. [Name] was there for my life's most important events. [He/she] was there for [list out important life events] and always remembered my birthday and other important anniversaries. [He/she] was beyond thoughtful -- [he/she] was one of the kindest and most compassionate people I've ever met and will ever meet.

Losing [Name] is akin to losing a family member. [He/she] is irreplaceable and their loss is felt deeply, more than words can ever describe. At the same time, I know [Name] would hate it if they saw me up here crying, talking only about their loss and ignoring all the wonderful things [he/she] did with their precious time here on Earth. So, I'd like to take this time, to thank [Name] for everything [he/she] taught me: [list out lessons or important takeaways]

Let's honor [Name's] memory today (and all days) by being kind to one another and remembering the struggles that we all have to face during our time here.

Joie and I met before we were born -- our mothers were in the same prenatal group and bonded over their hatred of the lack of sushi in their lives. We were born only a few days apart, spent our first years of life held by each other's moms and had almost no chance in not becoming great friends. Little did our moms know -- they'd given us more than friendship when they became friends. They'd made us family -- sisters.

Both of our families had decided to only have one child, so Joie and I filled the void that every only-child experiences. She was my sister, through and through. I was there for every one of her life's major accomplishments (and letdowns). She returned the favor in kind. Joie was my support through my first relationship, my first heartbreak, my first degree, my first marriage (and second!) and my first child. I was there for so many of her firsts, seconds, and thirds in life. That's the kind of person Joie was. Supportive. Constant. Foundational. She was my rock and the rock for so many people around her.

Even in death, Joie knew we'd be lost without her support. Her husband, Robbie, is constantly finding small notes that Joie left behind, just little reminders that she still cares for him and is supporting him, despite this complication we call existence. Two days after Joie was diagnosed with cancer, she gave me a call. She told me to sit down and to get ready for the "shit to hit the fan". I thought it was just another rant about her job or some stupid thing she saw at the store or a 30 minute monologue on the downfall of American reality TV.

When she told me she had cancer, I nearly passed out. But she explained to me that now, more than ever, she needed me to be the strong one. Not just for her, but for her husband, for her family, and for myself. She told me not to embarass her in this eulogy, so I'll restrain myself from doing that by going over the top. Please just know, if you're here today, you meant something to Joie. If you're here today, you matter and are important. If you're here today, please honor Joie's memory by being the rock for someone else in your life.

Joie, I love you so, so much. I can't wait to see you again.

Thank you all for being here today. I’m honored to share this time with our friends, family and community and join in remembering [Name]'s life and ongoing legacy.

I met [Name] at [location] around [number] years ago and instantly knew we'd become lifelong friends.

We spent all our time during that summer [description of activities] and the following years were spent periodically visiting [location] and inviting friends out for our annual [description of trip].

[Name] was the kind of person who you never forget. [He/she] was [describe personality]. [He/she] instantly made people feel like [description]. [He/she] was endlessly [selfless, loving, caring, etc.].

I know this loss is one that runs deep for many of us gathered here today, but I also know that [Name] wouldn't want us to sit around mourning [his/her] loss and instead would want us to look towards the future and think on what we can do to make this world a better place.

In [his/her] memory, let's try our best.

For those who don't know me, [Name] was my childhood best friend. We met when we were [age] and instantly connected. We bonded over [subjects], we spent summers at [location] and I could almost always be found at [his/her] house on the weekends. I spent so much time at [Name]'s house that I was known as [his/her] [brother/sister], even by [his/her] parents own admission.

A lifelong friendship is incredibly hard to find and even harder to live without once you've experienced it. To say that this loss is hard is an understatement. [Name] was one of the [describe personality] people I've ever met. [He/she] was unique. [He/she] was hilarious. [He/she] was irreplaceable.

For all those that are gathered with me today, I ask that you join me in honoring [Name]'s life by practicing the values they held so dear. Be kind, be loving, enjoy life, and live life slowly.

Before I get started, I wanted to thank each and every one of you for showing up to honor and remember the incredible life of [Name]. If you knew [Name] (which, if you didn't, why are you here?), you know how magnetic they truly were. Standing up here with only a few minutes to speak on how amazing they were and what they meant to me feels impossible. How can I describe [Name] in a way that's accurate? How can I sum up the impact they had on me, on those around them, on the field of [career field], on the world? It's a near impossible task, so I decided to list out the top 10 things I appreciated most about [Name]. I plan on integrating these top 10 things into the way I treat others as a way of honoring their memory.

Things I learned from [Name]:

Thank you for joining me and listening to me today. I hope you take some of these values and ways of being with you.

Memories of [Name]

Instead of a standard eulogy, I wanted to use this time to share some of my most cherished memories of [Name]. These are ones I've picked out intentionally as I feel they best represent the type of person [Name] was, at least to me. While not all of these memories are ""positive"", they are the ones that have stuck with me the most.

[List memories]

We are gathered here today to celebrate the life of a remarkable young man, who was taken from us far too soon. [Name] was a 25-year-old Marine, who loved hunting, woodworking, and theater. He had a stoic, but kind personality that drew people to him, and he had a deep passion for nature, exploration, and family.

[Name] was a skilled hunter, who spent many hours in the woods, quietly observing the world around him. He had a deep respect for nature and all of its creatures, and he loved nothing more than being out in the wilderness, breathing in the fresh air, and feeling the sun on his face.

In addition to his love for hunting, [Name] was also a talented woodworker, who enjoyed creating beautiful objects out of wood. He had an eye for detail and a steady hand, and his creations were always stunningly beautiful.

But perhaps most of all, [Name] loved theater. He was a gifted actor, who had a way of bringing his characters to life, and he had a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling. He loved nothing more than being on stage, basking in the spotlight, and entertaining his audience.

Throughout all of his endeavors, [Name] was guided by his dedication to his family. He was a loyal son, a devoted brother, and a loving friend, who always put the needs of others before his own. He had a heart of gold, and he never hesitated to lend a helping hand or a listening ear to those in need.

[Name] was a remarkable young man, who touched the lives of all those who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those he loved. Rest in peace, [Name]. You will always be remembered.

First, I want to thank everyone here for showing up today. It means a lot.

Losing my dad is one of the most difficult hardships I’ve ever had to go through. That being said, this process has made me realize just how lucky I was to have a father like [Name]. Without his example, encouragement, advice, and love, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. I am eternally grateful for his life as an example for how I should live my own.

My dad was difficult to sum up in a few words, but some that come to mind are: [hardworking/gentle/loving/caring/strong/hilarious/funny/serious/crafty/intelligent]. When I was younger, we’d spend time [description of memory]. That’s where I first learned to [description of skill].

I remember once when I was younger, we [description of memory].

Dad, you will never be forgotten. Our family is eternally lucky to have had you as the head of our family. We will honor your memory by [way you’re going to honor memory].

Thank you all for coming today.

Growing up, my father was always [description of attitude / personality]. My friends would always say that he was [description of friends’ thoughts]. His coworkers would describe him as [description]. But to me, he was just my dad.

One of my favorite memories with him is when we [memory description].

Another time, we went to [memory description].

Those are the times that I keep in mind whenever I think of my dad, some of the best times of my life. It’s impossible to describe the amount of love I hold in my heart for my father, so I’ll leave it to someone else to describe for me. In the words of [author name], “[Quote]”.

Hello, everyone. Before I get started, I just wanted to acknowledge everyone's presence today. It means so much to me and to my family that you decided to be here with us today to remember my father's life. I know he's smiling on us from above and is absolutely thrilled that so many of you showed up today to remember him.

My dad is impossible to sum up -- we'd be here all day if I had the opportunity to share with you all all the wonderful things he did, taught, and accomplished in his life. To spare you all from that (and to shield you from watching me cry for a few hours) I've decided to restrict this to a short list of some of my favorite qualities of my dad. Without further ado, here's the things that made my dad the man he was:

• My dad taught me and my brothers the meaning of what is was to be a man.
• He was compassionate and kind, funny yet stoic, bubbly yet reserved, and quietly bonded our family together through difficult storms and joyful moments.
• He was the BEST on the grill and 5 year winner of the Best Chili award at our annual chili cookoff.
• He hated the Patriots, with a passion.
• He'd sneak out in the middle of the night when we were younger to take us to midnight premiers of our favorite movies -- much to Mom's dismay.
• He once drove over 500 miles to help me move out from an ex's apartment -- again, in the middle of the night.
• He was known by my entire group of friends as "The Cool Dad".
• Even during his last months, he was ensuring me and my brothers knew what to expect, knew what was coming, and what our responsibilities to each other were.
• His family was the most important thing in his life.
• My mom was the love of his life and never failed to put a twinkle in his eye.

My dad is the reason I am the person I am today. He was endlessly encouraging, loving, caring, and intelligent. To lose him is to lose a piece of who I am, though I know he's with me in spirit. Thank you once again for showing up to support our family and remember this great man.

[Author] once said, "[Inspirational quote]". Little did he know, this quote would go on to be the foundation of my father's life.

While most knew my dad as a [descriptor] person, those closest to him knew him for his [kindness, bravery, love, caring, tenderness, softness, etc]. A man of few words and many talents, my father spent much of his life in [work / career description] and caring for [his children/family/wife/etc.]. His greatest love in life was [Name] and his favorite pasttime was [pasttime]. Not a day goes by that I don't think of him and not a day goes by that I'm certain the world is worse off without him in it. Losing my dad has taught me two things: [list lessons]

Thank you all for joining me, please tell your parents how much they mean to you and please do kindness, wherever you can.

My father was not an easy man. He was someone who hated the idea of small talk, celebrated people who worked hard (but knew when to take a break), and would be more than happy if no one talked to him for months, leaving him to read through his favorite detective novels.

His life could also not be described as easy. My father grew up poor, he lost his own father at the young age of 8 and had a mother who could be described as absent (at best). His youth was spent attempting to make ends meet through illegal jobs he held while attending school. He ended up dropping out of highschool in order to pursue a job as a dishwasher and support himself.

It was at this point that he met my mother, who seemed to be one of the only people on the planet who could charm my dad. He described her as "The first sense of relief I felt on this earth." and would refer to her as the love of his life for the rest of his life. He did his best to shield me and my brothers from the harsh upbringing he endured. He pushed us to attend college, he pushed us to stay in school, and he pushed us to cherish those in our family -- something he never had.

He worked hard to get to where he was and without a doubt, could be described as a successful man. My father was resilient, generous, and reserved. Though he was a man of few words, he made sure that my brother and I knew we were important, were loved, and were cherished.

I love you Dad and I hope you rest easy. You did a wonderful job.

Lessons from [Name]

Instead of delivering a 20 minute eulogy on my father, that I know he would've hated, I've instead decided to share some of the lessons he taught that could go on to help others. These are lessons that have helped me navigate this life and are lessons I'll cling to now that he's gone. If they resonate with you, please feel free to take them for your own. I love you, Dad.

[List lessons]

My father laid the foundation for my life as a man. He took the lessons his father taught him (rather harshly), picked them up, brushed them off, and buffed them, turning them into the lessons he shared with me (much less harshly than his father did). He was patient. He was kind. He was handy. He was incredibly intelligent and well-spoken, yet preferred to let others speak. If there was a party, you'd often find him on the balcony, in the backyard, or in a corner somewhere, people watching and smiling kindly at anyone who wandered near him. He preferred learning above all else and would most often be seen in his study, with ten different books at varying stages of being read. I owe my father everything and I credit my success in life to the way he raised me, each and every day. To lose him, means to lose a piece of myself. Dad, I love you.

To say my dad meant the world to me is an understatement. A man of few words, and even fewer faults -- he was the stoic figure in my life, the foundation that stayed true no matter what was thrown at him, and the reason I became the woman I am today. I learned to let things go, to love people who loved me back, to befriend those without, and to stay close to those who mattered. My dad meant everything to me, and more. Rest in peace, Dad.

We all dream of having a mother who is kind, loving, and genuine. [Name] was exactly that type of mother. She guided us through years and years and years of hardship, difficulty, joy, and achievement. Our mother was the foundation of our family and without her, it’s difficult to know what to do or what comes next.

I’ll miss her [laugh/smile/generosity/humor/jokes/other descriptor], but am lost without her [guidance/thoughts/advice/other descriptor]. I know we’ll all miss her [insert personality trait or something she was known for].

One of my absolute favorite moments was when my mom [description of memory].

Another one of our family's favorite memories with [Name] was when she [description of memory].

Thank you all for showing up today to honor my mother’s memory and legacy. I know it would’ve warmed her heart to see you all here and I appreciate it greatly. In the words of my mother, “[quote]”

It is an impossible feat to sum up the importance that one’s mother has in one’s life, so I’d like to instead, share some of my favorite memories that I had with my mother. Before I start, let me give you a breakdown of the type of woman my mom was. [Name] was [hardworking/intelligent/ferocious/hilarious/kind/gentle/etc.]. She was always [description] and she never [description]. Her top three favorite things were: [name three things]. One of my favorite memories with my mom was the time we [description]. This is followed closely by the time we [description]. Her [smile/laugh/voice] would light up a room and bring joy to those around her. Her presence was deeply felt and her loss is almost too much to bear. So thank you to everyone who decided to come here today, it means the world to me. One of my mom’s favorite quotes is from [name of author]. It reads, “[quote]”. I’d like to leave you with that today as we celebrate my mother. Thank you.

Thank you for joining me today as I navigate the impossible task of summing up the life of someone incredible, in only a few minutes.

I guess I'll start by sharing one of my favorite moments with [Name]. I was [age] and had just [descriptor]. My mom took me to [location], one of my favorite spots. We had just gone to [location] the previous year, so this was a nice change. We spent the day [descriptor], working on [descriptor] and eating [food]. At night, we [description] and met with [people you met with].

Nights like this weren't uncommon with Mom -- she constantly made sure we had the most fun possible whenever we could. Her free time was spent supporting us, cheerleading for us, driving us to various activities, picking us up, hosting sleepovers, paying for our (many) mistakes, and being known to all as "the best Mom". My friends have all insisted I was blessed with her as my mom, and I know this to be true.

Today, I want us to join together to remember that. To remember the kind of woman she was and the kind of person she taught me and everyone who knew her to be. A woman of joy, light, kindness and warmth. A woman of love and positivity and a ray of sunshine that will be so desperately missed from this world. Mom -- I love you.

To my mother,

I miss you so much. You were the glue that held our family together. You were always there for me when I needed you. I am so grateful to have had you in my life.

You were an amazing woman and an even better mother. I will never forget all the things you taught me. I will never forget your unconditional love and support.

I know you are in a better place now, but I still wish you were here with us. I know that we will see each other again one day, but until then, I will cherish all of our memories together.

I love you, mom.

My mother was the most incredible woman I have ever known. She always supported me in everything that I did, and she was my biggest cheerleader. I know that she is up there looking down on me now, watching over me and guiding me as I navigate through life without her by my side.

Although my mother is no longer with us in this life, I know that she lives on in the memories that I have of her, and the love and support that she gave me throughout my life. She was strong, kind, and warmhearted, and I will always treasure the time we spent together.

I know that it is difficult to lose someone so important to you, but my mother's memory will live on forever in my heart. In her honor, I plan to spend the rest of my days living a life full of kindness and compassion, just as she did. She will never be forgotten.

I am so grateful to have had such an amazing mom, and I know that I will never be able to forget all of the wonderful things she taught me throughout my life. We will cherish all of the amazing memories we have of her until we meet again someday.

Hello all. Before I get started, I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has decided to join us today (and even those who reached out and mentioned they couldn't make it). We're gathered in this beautiful location to celebrate my mom's life. For all of those who decided to travel long distances, who reached out to us during our time of need, and who took the time to help us get this set up -- you have no idea how much this has meant to our family.

What's been most clear to me during this difficult time is simply the staggering amount of people my mom influenced, cared for, and loved. So many folks, even those she hasn't seen in over a decade, have written in and let us know the impact she had on their lives. To say she made you feel loved, seen, and appreciated at all times was an understatement. She was the pillar of our family, a pillar of her community, and would take each and every opportunity available to her to make those around her feel supported and seen.

This has been one of the hardest times our family has gone through and I'm so warmed to know all these bright and smiling faces here today. Thanks for coming to honor my mom.

To lose a mother is to lose a piece of your soul. My mother was no exception. Some would say our relationship was too close and my father used to warn me against "relying" on her too much, since he was trying to protect me from this exact day. My mom was the center of my life and without her, I feel lost. I'm angry, I'm confused, and I miss her so, so, very much. I want to ask each and everyone one of you visiting today, who took the time out of your busy schedules to show your support to my family -- please huge your parents. Please resolve any unresolved issues you currently have, if you love them -- none of it matters. Once you don't have the opportunity to make amends, it feels like everything was so silly. Mom, I miss you, I love you, and I'm lost without you.

Friends and family, today we gather to remember and honor the remarkable life of a woman who truly made a difference in this world. She was a devoted mother, a compassionate humanitarian, and an inspiration to all who knew her.

As we heard from her obituary, this incredible woman faced immense tragedy at a young age, losing her husband in a tragic accident. But instead of giving up, she channeled her grief into a powerful force for good. She joined the Peace Corps, dedicating her life to helping those in need in underdeveloped countries around the world. Her commitment to service was unwavering, and she spent years traveling the world, spreading love and kindness wherever she went.

But she was not only a humanitarian. She was a devoted mother to her son, who was her greatest joy in life. She instilled in him the values of kindness and compassion, and he is a testament to her incredible parenting.

Though we mourn her loss, we can take comfort in knowing that her legacy lives on. She touched so many lives with her kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to making the world a better place. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will always be a source of inspiration for us all. Rest in peace, dear friend.

Today, we gather to honor the life and legacy of Chef Kimmino, a beloved chef who has left us too soon. Chef Kimmino was a true culinary artist, whose passion and creativity inspired all who had the pleasure of experiencing their dishes.

Sadly, Chef Kimmino's battle with breast cancer came to an end at the age of 45. But let us not mourn their passing. Instead, let us celebrate the life they lived and the joy they brought to countless individuals through their delicious and unforgettable meals.

Chef Kimmino was a true master of their craft, always experimenting with new flavors and techniques to create dishes that were both innovative and mouth-watering. Their culinary creations were a reflection of their adventurous spirit, and they were never afraid to push the boundaries of traditional cooking.

But Chef Kimmino's impact went beyond their culinary talents. They were a mentor and inspiration to many aspiring chefs, always encouraging them to pursue their passion and follow their dreams. They were also a philanthropist, using their talents to give back to the community by donating their time and resources to various charities and organizations.

Chef Kimmino's passing is a great loss to the culinary world and to all who knew and loved them. But we can take comfort in knowing that their legacy will live on through the countless lives they touched with their passion and generosity.

So let us honor Chef Kimmino's memory by continuing to share their love of food and cooking with others. Let us keep their spirit alive by embracing their adventurous approach to life and always striving for excellence in all that we do.

Rest in peace, Chef Kimmino. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

We’ve all heard the heartwarming stories many have about just how great their [grandmother/grandfather] was, but I’m here to tell you today that mine was the best. Our [grandma/grandpa], [Name] was such a classic [grandma/grandpa] that it’s almost too difficult to believe. [She/He] was the best at [baking/cooking/fixing things/trips/parties/crafts/giving advice/etc]. [She/He] made the most amazing [food/hobby]. [She/He] also was a part of many clubs, including [list of clubs]. Loved by everyone around [him/her], [name] was the star of the show from the very beginning. When [she/he] was young, [she/he] participated in [activity]. As [she/he] grew older, [she/he] became a fan of [description of hobby/interest]. As [her/his] grandchildren, we were lucky enough to spend time with [him/her] doing [description of time spent]. Now that [she’s/he’s] gone, a hole is left in our hearts and in our souls, but we know we will see [her/him] again soon. One of [name]’s favorite passages was, “[passage]”. I think that sums up who [she/he] was quite well. Thank you all for being here today and I know that [Name] would’ve been in tears just seeing all of you who loved and cared for [her/him] show up for [her/him] today.

My [grandmother/grandfather] was one of those women who [description]. [She’s/He’s] incredibly difficult to sum up in just a few words so I’ll do my best. To start with, my [grandmother/grandfather] was most known for [his/her] [description of something they were known for]. Every single person who came into contact with [her/him] would tell me stories about how [he/she] would [story] and [story].

My favorite memory with [her/him] was the time we went to [description of memory].

I’ll always remember [her/him] as a [loving/caring/kind/gentle/wise/intelligent/hilarious] soul who would try [her/his] best each and every day to put a smile on the faces of others.

For those of you who knew my [grandmother/grandfather], you knew just how special and important [she/he] was to our family. I thank you all for spending time with us here today in honor of [her/him] and the person [she/he] was.

My grandmother was an amazing woman. She was always so kind and loving, and I will never forget all of the wonderful moments we shared together. I am so grateful to have had her in my life, and I know that she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She was a strong and independent woman, who always put others first. She was always there for me when I needed her, and she was such an important part of my life. I know that she is now at peace, and I take comfort in knowing that she will always be with me in spirit.

Those who knew her, knew how much she loved her family, and she was always so proud of us. She was the heart of our family, and we will never be the same without her. We will cherish all of the memories we have of her, and keep her in our hearts always.

Thank you for everything, Grandma. I love you so much.

My grandmother was one of the most influential people in my life and the lives of so many others. Never one to back down from a fight, she spent almost her entire life dedicated to trying to improve our system, to the best of her ability.

Whether this was through community service, time spent volunteering, or simply being a listening ear to those who needed one, her time spent on this planet was time spent caring for others.

I want to honor my grandmother's legacy by continuing in her footsteps and ask all here to do the same. Be kind to each other. Find ways to help those who cannot help themselves. Figure out how to invite joy into your life and how to cultivate it in the lives of those around you.

Grandma, thank you so much for being the bright soul that you so were. I adore you always and forever.

Before I get started, I wanted to say thank you to every single one of you who has shown up today to honor the life of my grandmother, [Name]. Each and every one of you meant something to her and I know that you know that, without a doubt.

Now, to the hard part -- summing up the life of such an accomplished, loving, and special woman. [Name] -- you were one of the most unique and special souls that has ever graced this earth. Everyone who encountered you immediately felt like one of your best friends. You held that special talent of conversing easily with strangers, of making newcomers feel like oldtimers, and of holding space for anyone and everyone that needed it. I have run into so many people that have said to me, "I'm so sorry for your loss, [Name] was one of my best friends." I've heard this phrase so often it's astounded me -- how did [Name] have so many best friends?! It's because she was special and she knew how to make others feel just as special.

To say the loss we've suffered is great is an understatement -- there is no way to describe the hole that is left by her passing. That being said, I aim to honor her life and legacy by attempting to make others feel just as loved, held, and cared for as she made them feel. I invite everyone here, to do just the same. Thank you.

I know my grandmother would be rolling in her grave if she could see me up here giving her even the slightest bit of praise. Always one to tut at any kind of recognition of her good deeds, she'd absolutely hate that we were all gathered here today to do just that. I can say, without a doubt, that my grandmother was the love of my life. She was the first person to make me feel like I had a home and a place in this world. She encouraged me to pursue my passions, no matter what they were. She was the first person I called when I decided to switch majors at college. She was the first person I called when I needed relationship advice, or advice on how to fix my toilet, or instructions on how to change a tire. She was endlessly crafty, knowledgeable, loving, and hilarious. She hated sad movies and loved a good horror film. Her church group referred to her as "The Old Commander" because she was so stringent in getting them to submit their projects on time. It didn't matter if it was for a church potluck or a wedding reception, she kept people in line and kept all of us in her orbit. Grandma, I love you endlessly and have no idea how I'm to navigate this scary world without you by my side. But I know you're out there, somewhere, looking over me. I love you.

Ladies and Gentlemen, friends and family, we gather here today to celebrate the life of a remarkable man, a loving grandfather, and a proud veteran - [Grandfather's Name]. He lived a full and fulfilling life, filled with joy, laughter, and countless precious memories that will be cherished by all who knew him.

[Grandfather's Name] was born in San Francisco and spent his early years exploring the city and all that it had to offer. He was an adventurous spirit, always eager to try new things and see new places. When he was called to serve in World War 2, he answered the call with bravery and honor, defending our country and our way of life. His service to our nation was a testament to his character, and it was a source of great pride for him throughout his life.

When [Grandfather's Name] returned home from the war, he began a new chapter in his life, one filled with family, friends, and all the things he loved. He was blessed with five grandchildren, and he cherished each and every one of them, spending countless hours camping, fishing, and exploring the great outdoors with them. His love of nature was second only to his love of his family, and he always took time to share his knowledge and appreciation of the natural world with those he loved.

[Grandfather's Name] was also a talented artist and woodworker. He spent many hours in his workshop, creating beautiful pieces of art and furniture that will be cherished by his family for generations to come. His passion for creating was matched only by his love of giving, and every year he donned a Santa Claus suit to bring joy to children in his community.

In the end, [Grandfather's Name] passed away peacefully in Florida at the age of 82, surrounded by the love of his family. He left behind a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Today, we say goodbye to a beloved grandfather, a proud veteran, and a true friend. May he rest in peace and may his memory live on in our hearts forever.

Today, we gather to honor and remember the life of Louis Pereira, a Senior Program Manager and passionate writer. Louis had a love for writing, a passion that he was able to pursue in his final years, penning over six short novels that were close to his heart.

Though Louis may be gone, his legacy lives on through his family, particularly his two beloved grandchildren. His kindness, wisdom, and love will continue to guide them throughout their lives.

Louis's dedication to his work and his commitment to his passions serve as an inspiration to all of us. He was a beloved member of the community, known for his compassion and his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

As we say goodbye to Louis, we take comfort in the memories he has left behind and the impact he has had on our lives. May he rest in peace, knowing that his spirit and his legacy will live on through his family and his writing.

You were always determined to be the best – on the field, on the court, in the classroom. You set your sights high and worked hard to achieve your goals.

I am so proud of everything you have accomplished in your short life. You were an amazing son, brother, and friend and you will be deeply missed.

You had a passion for sports and a natural talent for competition. You were always driven to win and I know that you would have gone far in your chosen field, no matter what that ended up being.

I will miss watching you play and excel at what you loved so much. You brought joy to everyone around you and I am grateful to have been a part of your life.

Rest in peace, my son. You will be forever in my heart.

First, let me take this moment to thank each and every one of you who showed up today (and to those who are joining us online). It means so much to our family to have this support system in place after the sudden passing of our beloved son, [Name].

I'm not a person of many words, but at this point in time it feels almost like there aren't enough words in the English language to describe how I feel or the impact my boy had on those he met throughout his short life. From the day he was born, I knew he was something special. It was in the glint of his eyes when he couldn't figure out a problem, in the sound of his laughter as it reverberated through our home, in the shine of his smile whenever he came home from school. He was special. I know every parent feels that way about their kid, but it's true -- [Name] was unique.

Losing him is the hardest thing I've ever dealt with and I know the spot left behind by him is irreplaceable -- I will deal with that for the rest of my days. At the same time, my son was absolutely not the kind of person who would want his friends, his family, and his loved ones to stand by and let grief consume him. He would want his memory to be celebrated and honored through love, laughter, adventure, and a deep appreciation of everything our lives have to offer.

In honor of my son, please hug your children a little tighter today. Please take a few minutes to appreciate what this planet has to offer. And please, most of all, be kind to one another.

I knew from the second I held you in my arms for the first time, how special, unique, and incredible you were going to be. And I was right.

My heart was overflowing with love and joy each and every time I saw your sweet face. Every time you said "Mom!", even if it was said in anger or frustration. I knew how much you loved me, our family, and life itself. Our talks were some of the most special moments of my life -- whether they lasted 2 minutes or were one of our infamous "loving debates" that lasted hours.

Your mind was brilliant, your passion for justice was admirable, and you were everything I wish I could've been at your age. I love you so very much son and to say this loss is unimaginable is simply an understatement.

I will follow your trajectory through life and attempt to celebrate your spirit in everything that I do. You are my sweet boy and I cannot wait until I get to see your sweet face and hold you in my arms once again.

I love you, son.

[Name] was my [youngest/oldest] [brother/sister] and one of the most important people in my life. I know [he/she] would’ve been amazed to see all of you who have come out today in support of [him/her] and us as a family. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Name]. From the very beginning, [Name] and I were inseparable. I loved having [Name] as a [brother/sister] more than anything else in my life. I’ve tried to protect [him/her] as though [she/he] was my own [son/daughter] throughout our lives and it is incredibly painful to be here letting [him/her] go today.

Even though [Name] was taken from us too soon, I know that I will see [him/her] again soon. [He/she] lived a full and happy life, one that touched the lives of so many people. I take comfort in knowing that [his/her] legacy will live on through the lives of others.

I’d like to leave you with one of my favorite quotes that I feel sums up [Name] perfectly: “[quote]”

Thank you all again for coming.

Today we’re gathered in memory of [Name], my [brother/sister] and biggest supporter. I’m [name], [Name] [oldest/youngest/older/younger] [brother/sister]. When we were younger, [Name] & I had a difficult relationship. Lots of fights, screaming, yelling; things that siblings tend to do. As we got older, I started to realize how important [Name] was to me and how much of a supporter [he/she] was to me as an individual.

A couple years ago, we went to [location] for [reason]. We [description of memory]. Another moment that I’ll always remember is the time we went to [description of memory].

[Name] was nothing but [generous/kind/loving/helpful/hilarious/determined/accomplished] and was the pride of our family. [He/she] was my best friend, my partner in crime, and someone I knew I could always rely on. Our family is not the same with their loss, but we will press on and live our best lives as a way of honoring [his/her] memory.

Thank you all for joining me and for allowing [Name] to have a space in your heart and in your life.

Every day, after school, my brother would wait (sometimes over an hour) for me to get out of my last class. He would stand at the bus stop, a huge smile on his face every time he heard the bell ring and saw me running towards him. This tradition continued all the way from when I was around 6 to my very last year of high school.

He was one of the most protective, kind, smart, annoying, hilarious, and goofy individuals I've ever known and will surely, ever meet. Going out of his way to stand at a bus stop just to make sure I had some consistency in my life, a friendly face at the end of the day, and a safe way to get back home was the kind of person he continued to be throughout my life (and throughout the lives of his own family).

Everyone who knew him knew what it meant to him to protect those around him, and that kind of protection was one he enacted until the day he passed away. Without my brother here, I feel a piece of me has shuttered itself away. At the same time, his loss has sparked a desire in me to be better. For him, for his family, for my family, and for myself. His impact on others was incalculable and immeasurable; his life is equally difficult to sum up in just a few words in just a few minutes. I don't doubt I'll be sharing small stories from his life for the rest of my own, but I do want to make sure I make one thing extremely clear.

My brother was the best of us and this world is less bright now that he has passed. Please, keep him in your memory and in your thoughts. Honor his memory by being kind and trying your absolute best. Thank you for coming and for joining my family in remembering my brother.

If I were to say that my sister was the most important person in my life, it might be a bit of a life. (Technically, my mom is the most important person in my life.) I didn't consider my sister as a separate individual -- she was part of me. We were two parts of a whole. Together, we were a full being. Without her, I feel as though half of me is gone.

When we were young, we would stay up until way past our bedtime, whispering down the hallway to each other as we slept in separate beds. We would share our dreams, our fears, our anger, and our joy for a few hours each night. I learned about her dream to be a veterinarian and she celebrated my desire to be a janitor. (We were young!)

Each summer we would go to summer camp together (which we hated), prompted by our parents' need to get some much needed alone time. We were fused at the hip and made almost no friends during summer camps (much to our joy and delight). When we'd get home, our parents would ask if we made new friends and had a great time, we'd lie and make up names for the friends we never made.

When we graduated from college (we both attended [name of college]), she was right behind me on the stage, clasping her degree in [subject] while I held mine in [subject] -- far from our dreams as children.

Throughout our 20's we played around with moving apart and traveling but would ultimately reunite in our hometown every two years or so. When we lost [name], we lived only 20 minutes from each other and would see each other nearly every other day. She was the first person I called when I needed someone to hear me out, someone to listen to me rant, someone to comfort me as I cried, and someone to advocate for me when I wasn't kind to myself.

Losing my sister is the hardest thing I've ever had to go through. I will never feel whole again. At the same time, I know she would want me to remember her in a bright light and know that I carry her with me at all times. I truly aim to do this. In her memory, please give your loved ones a hug today and let them know how much they mean to you.

Many of you attending today know my sister through her immensely successful career as a nurse, some of you know her through her brief stint as a filmographer, and many of you know her because she made a deep impression on you at some point during our childhood. To say she was a lifelong friend to many wouldn't be doing her justice. My sister was the kind of person who somehow found the stragglers, the outcasts, the nerds, the misfits, and the people who didn't feel like they had a community -- and gave them one. She opened up her home to those in need, rented out (and sometimes just lended out) her extra rooms, constantly helped people find jobs, resources, and connections when they were new to the city. She was everything to so many and I'm so blessed to see you all here today. Please try your best to fill your life with generosity and gratitude as a testament to her and her life. Thank you.

Thank you for joining me today in honoring my sister's memory. From a young age, I knew my sister was special. She would pick me up each and every day from school. When I went to college, she was there to drive me to the dorms. When I graduated, she drove me across the country. Without her constant and unrelenting support, I wouldn't have made it through the last 40 years of my life. She showed me how to be a better sister, a better person, and a wonderful mom. I owe everything to her and don't know how to navigate life without her.

My grandson, [Full Name] was an amazing young man. He made his family immensely proud of him every single day he lived. A teacher, an educator, a passionate writer, and a talented artist, his multifaceted personality and talent arsenal impressed everyone he met.

He was a strong and independent man, who always put others before himself. Even when he was younger, he'd be the first of my grandkids to ask how he could help. If I was fixing the car, he'd want to watch. If I was working in the garden, he'd want to help. If the lawn needed to be mowed, he'd be up on a Saturday morning taking care of it. When his grandmother, my wife, had hip surgery, he was the one to run and grab us groceries every week. All of this without complaint and without making us feel as though we were burdens.

I am so proud of the man that he had become and only wish he had the opportunity to live out the rest of his days. A rare and special soul, he will be missed so very much.

Thank you for everything, [first name]. I love you and miss you so much.

To my beautiful granddaughter,

You were the light in my life – always happy, always smiling. You lit up a room every time you entered it and I will miss that light so very much.

I am so proud of the woman you were becoming and I know that you would have accomplished great things in your life. You had such a bright future ahead of you and I am heartbroken that it has been cut so short.

I will cherish all the memories we have together – from your first steps, to your first day of school, to your high school graduation. You were always my pride and joy and I will miss you more than words can say.

Rest in peace, my sweet granddaughter. You will be forever in my heart.

Example # 3

Those of you who know me, know how much my grandson meant to me, our family, and our community. [Name] was a rare individual -- someone that, in today's day and age, is becoming increasingly more rare. He thrived on connecting with others and building up his community in any way he could. Countless hours were spent volunteering with the food bank, the humane society, setting up various cancer walks and runs and trying his hardest to do good in this world and to provide a sense of togetherness with the few precious years he had on this planet. His loss is deeply felt by everyone in our family and of course, many of those who are not (but according to him, would be called family). Please consider honoring [Name]'s memory by volunteering your time in any way that you find meaningful. Maybe that means setting up a walk or run (or any other fun activity) for a charity that you hold dear. Maybe that means picking up trash on the road. Maybe that means spending time in the community garden. In any case, know that any time spent building up the lives of others is time spent remembering and honoring the life of [Name] -- and for that, we are forever grateful.

When I gave birth to [Name], my life was permanently changed. I'd heard how this can happen from friends and family, stories about how having a child changes your life. I'd known this would happen but no amount of warning could've prepared me for how rapidly and totally my world was consumed by my baby. When I held her in my arms for the first time, I knew. I knew my life's purpose. I understood the unspeakable bond that tethers a mother to her child. I was hesitant to release her, to let anyone else but me hold her, even her father. I was obsessed.

With each day, she grew into the bright, confident, and cheerful little girl she ended up being. Every flower was a burst of laughter, interactions with puppies and dogs was a cause for joy, she cried incessantly and wouldn't let me sleep for over 2 months -- but it was so worth it. Seeing her bright, chubby cheeks light up as I turned the corner into her room made it so very worth it.

My daughter was my world and I have no idea how I am to cope with her loss. No parent should undergo the rage and grief that accompanies picking out a casket for your small child. Her life was tragically taken from her and I'll never get to know what kind of person she would've been -- though I have theories. I know she loved every day she got to spend on this earth and I know she felt loved for each and every day.

What I learned from her was to embrace joy, to find a spark of happiness in each and every day, and to cry it out when you have to. [Name], sweet girl, you are so loved and so very missed.

Thank you for joining me and my family today to celebrate, remember, and honor the life of [Full Name]. [Name] was a [man/woman] of [describe characteristics] with a penchant for [description] that always showed itself whenever [he/she] would [description]. A [man/woman] of many talents, [Name] showed us that it was never too late to start [hobby/career].

My [father/mother/sister/brother/relation] was, without a doubt, my best friend, my biggest cheerleader, and my constant supporter. When I was interested in [hobby], [she/he] showed up to all the events. When I decided I was obsessed with [hobby], [he/she] went out and purchased [item]. When I decided to [description], [she/he] was the first person to [description].

My [mom/dad/relation] was an unforgettable and truly remarkable human being. I endeavor, with all my heart, to follow in [his/her] footsteps for the rest of my life. I will honor [his/her] time on Earth and [his/her] contributions to our society by [describe how you'll honor their life]. I ask that everyone here today join me in this endeavour as we aim to honor the life of [full name]. Thank you.

To my wife,

You were my best friend and my partner in life. We shared everything – our hopes, our dreams, our lives. You were the love of my life and I will miss you forever.

We had so many happy years together and I am grateful for every moment we shared. You brought joy to my life and I will cherish our time together always.

I am so proud of the woman you were and I know that you touched the lives of everyone around you. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Rest in peace, my love. You will be forever in my heart.

Choosing a favorite moment from my life spent with my wife is impossible. Was it the time that we went to Lake Minetonka and passed out on the shores after sharing a box full of wine? Was it when she surprised me with tickets to see The Black Crowes in concert, only two months after I'd mentioned it to her? When I'd wake up in the morning to a hot cup of coffee and a brief rant on the political state of the world? The way she mothered our children effortlessly and still took the time to ask me about specific relationships at work? My life has been full of these warm memories -- I can't land on one. What I do know is that my wife emanated love each and every day. Every single day I felt loved, supported, and known. It made me want to make sure she was taken care of in each and every way. I did my best. I tried to give her the life she so deserved, but even if I could give her the life of a queen, it wouldn't have been enough for what she deserved. My wife was everything and is the center of my joy. I miss her each and every day and I know I will see her again.

Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to be married. I was obsessed with any and all films of prince charmings, beautiful and big weddings, and women being swept off their feet. I was convinced that my time would come by the time I was 20 (how naive!). I went through college and by the time I was 32 realized I'd never had a boyfriend. I'd never been courted. I wasn't even sure I liked men. My desire to be swept off my feet dwindled and I became secure in myself.

Until I met [Name].

Immediately, within the first 20 minutes of meeting [Name], I was absolutely smitten. I thought of almost nothing else when we were apart -- and we hated each other! She was competing with me for the same promotion at work and we were both tenacious and fierce women. She was stubborn, confident, and sure of what she wanted -- much like myself.

After she got the promotion I so desperately wanted, she invited me out for a conciliatory drink -- a move I never would've made. She would go on to refer to this as our first date, though I considered it the first brick towards building a bridge away from dislike and towards camaraderie.

I was swept off my feet, in a completely unexpected way. During our first years of dating, I found myself wanting to provide for her, take care of her, make her smile at all possible moments. When she ranted about work, I wanted to defend her. When she managed to burn chicken each and every time, you wouldn't hear a peep from me. When she suggested we get married, I wanted her to be the star of the show. I wanted to show her off to every important person in my life. She'd lovingly refer to me as her ""Princess Charming"" -- a role I happily inhabited.

My wife brought joy, kindness, love, courage, strength, and purpose into my life. Without her by my side, I feel an unhealable void. At the same time, in her way, she prepared me as best she could. I ask those gathered here today, in her memory, to help me keep her presence alive. Please spread joy in all the ways you can. Tell people how you feel. Advocate for yourself. Be free.

My life's greatest years were spent with [Name], the love of my life. She loved everything about life, even the downsides -- she embraced it all. Life was hard, but it was also worth it for her. From the moment I met her, I knw my life would be different and that I'd found the one.

[Name] made such a massive difference in the community around her, especially after becoming president of the charity she worked for. Her favorite things in life were witnessing others transform their lives for the better, helping people access community resources wherever possible, and advocating for those less fortunate. Go out today and try your best to emulate everything she did, and more.

I am so saddened by the loss of [Name]. We didn't always see eye to eye, but I always respected [him/her] as a hard worker and a great person. [She/He] was always so kind and helpful, and I will never forget all of the times [she/he] went out of [him/her] way to help me. [She/He] will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing [him/her].

When we first met at [company], [name] was one of the first people to make me feel welcome. I’ll never forget how [she/he] took the time to get to know me and helped me feel like I belonged there.

I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to work with [him/her], and I know that [she/he] has left a lasting impression on everyone [she/he] met. [She/He] was an amazing person, and I know that [she/he] will be deeply missed. Thank you for everything, [name].

May you rest in peace.

Throughout my career, I've met plenty of personalities, characters, and people -- but none as special as [Name]. When [Name] first entered the front doors to our building, I immediately knew we would get on. [Name] was the type of person you'd easily become friends with. People who met [him/her/them] would immediately want to work alongside them. As one of my first direct reports, I can't tell you how many people would come to me on the side and request to be paired with or on a team with [Name]. Why? [He/she] was special. People gravitated towards them. People wanted to be in their sphere of influence. People wanted to work alongside them and get to know them.

That's rare. This is the first time I've seen the majority of my company in one room that wasn't our building -- and it's for the funeral of our very special friend and colleague -- [Name]. Thank you to [Name's parents] for raising such an incredible human being. Please know that your [son/daughter/child] changed the lives, every day, of so many people around them. I have never in my 50 years of managing imagined running into someone like [Name] and I am blessed to have known them. Rest well and peacefully, [Name], you did well.

Today we come together to honor the life and legacy of a beloved retired musician, who touched so many lives with his passion for music. He was a kind-hearted man who enjoyed pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons. He was an avid traveler, having visited countries all over the world. He also had a strong connection to animals, particularly cats. His home was often filled with cats of all shapes, sizes and colors.

He had a variety of musical influences, which he blended together to create his own unique sound. He was an incredibly talented musician who could play various instruments including the guitar, piano and flute. He wrote some beautiful melodies that will live on long after him.

He was also a generous soul, always ready to lend a helping hand. He had an open door policy and welcomed people into his home with open arms. More than anything else, he loved sharing stories and swapping ideas with those around him.

Today we celebrate the life of this incredible man who left behind a beautiful legacy of music and of kindness. He will be remembered for all that he has accomplished and the many lives that he touched. May we strive to follow in his footsteps and honor his memory by living our own lives with love, humility and caring. Thank you.

These eulogy examples are for those who would like to focus on a loved one's profession or career choices as their way of honoring their life's work.

Eulogy for a speech pathologist

Dear friends, family, and colleagues,

Today, we gather to honor the life and legacy of Sarah Kwambe, a remarkable woman who touched the lives of so many people during her time with us. Sarah was not only a skilled speech pathologist but also a former professional soccer player who had to leave the sport she loved due to a career-ending injury. However, Sarah didn't let that setback stop her from pursuing her passion for helping others.

Sarah's journey began in South Dakota, where she lived with her beloved cat, Sam. She dedicated her life to making a difference in the lives of young people, particularly middle schoolers, whom she worked with as a speech pathologist. She had a remarkable ability to connect with her students and inspire them to achieve their full potential.

Despite the challenges she faced early on in her life, Sarah never gave up on her dreams. She was an accomplished athlete who excelled in soccer, but when her injury put an end to her career, she channeled her passion and determination into her studies. She pursued a degree in speech pathology, and her dedication to her work was evident in everything she did.

Sarah was a compassionate, caring, and selfless person who always put others first. She was a mentor to many, a friend to all, and a source of inspiration to everyone who knew her. She had a warm smile and a kind heart that could light up a room, and her love for her students was evident in the way she interacted with them.

Although Sarah never had children of her own, she had a deep love for her cat, Sam, who was always by her side. Her commitment to her feline friend was just one of the many examples of her kindness and compassion.

In conclusion, Sarah Kwambe was a truly remarkable person who touched the lives of many people in ways that will never be forgotten. Her legacy will live on through the countless students she helped, the colleagues she inspired, and the friends and family who loved her dearly. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Rest in peace, Sarah Kwambe.

Eulogy example for an environmental activist

Dear friends and family,

Today, we gather to remember and celebrate the life of Rachel Chen, a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to protecting and preserving our environment. Rachel was an accomplished environmental scientist, mother of three children - Irina, Bliss, and Mario, and a loving partner to her husband of many years.

From a young age, Rachel had a deep love and appreciation for nature. Her passion for the environment inspired her to pursue a career in environmental science, and she quickly became a respected expert in her field. She spent many years working tirelessly to protect our national parks, and her dedication to this cause never wavered.

Rachel was also an avid gardener, and she had a remarkable ability to bring beauty to everything she touched. Her love for nature was evident in everything she did, from the way she tended to her garden to the way she spoke about the natural world.

As a mother, Rachel was loving, patient, and kind. She instilled in her children a deep respect for the environment and a desire to make the world a better place. Her children were the light of her life, and she was so proud of the people they had become.

Rachel's passing is a great loss to us all. She was a remarkable person who touched the lives of so many people in countless ways. Her legacy will live on through the countless national parks and natural spaces that she helped to protect, as well as through the love and memories that her family and friends will always carry in their hearts.

Rachel, we will miss you dearly, but we know that your spirit will live on through the beauty of nature that you cherished so deeply. Rest in peace.

Eulogy example for a young adult

Today, we come together to celebrate the life of Zach Peterson. Zach was a talented mechanic, a loving son, and a loyal friend. He passed away far too soon, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Zach had a passion for auto maintenance that was unmatched. He loved nothing more than working on cars, and he was always happy to help a friend in need. His skills were truly remarkable, and he had an uncanny ability to diagnose and fix any issue that came his way.

But Zach was more than just a mechanic. He was a gentle soul who cared deeply about those around him. He had a warm smile that could light up a room, and he was always quick with a joke or a kind word. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and included, no matter who they were.

Zach's passing has left a void in our lives, but we take comfort in knowing that his memory will live on. We will remember his kind heart, his infectious laughter, and his unwavering loyalty. Zach was a special person who made a lasting impact on the world around him, and we are all better for having known him. Rest in peace, Zach.

Eulogy for an infant

With heavy hearts, we gather here today to mourn the loss of a precious child who has been taken from us too soon. We know that God has a plan for each and every one of us, but it is still difficult to understand why a young life has been cut short.

As we come together to remember this beautiful child, we take comfort in knowing that they are now in the loving embrace of our Lord. Though their time with us was brief, they brought immense joy and love into the world, and we will cherish the memories we have of them forever.

We know that this is a time of deep sorrow, but we can find solace in the fact that this child is now at peace in the arms of our Heavenly Father. May we all find comfort in our faith, and may we hold this precious child close in our hearts as we navigate this difficult time. Rest in peace, little one.

Eulogy for a grandmother

Today we gather to remember a truly remarkable woman - my grandmother. She was a woman of many talents: a masterful cross-stitcher, an incredible fudge-maker, and a loving grandmother to a whole gaggle of grandchildren.

Grandma was the kind of woman who made you feel like you were the only person in the world when she was talking to you. She always had a smile on her face and a twinkle in her eye, and she had a way of making even the most mundane tasks seem like an adventure.

And oh, her fudge! I think we can all agree that Grandma's fudge was a work of art. It was creamy, decadent, and so rich that you could only eat a tiny piece at a time - not that it stopped any of us from trying to eat the whole batch in one sitting!

But beyond her talents and her love of fudge, Grandma will be remembered most of all for the love she had for her family. She was a guiding light for all of us, a source of wisdom and strength when we needed it most.

So, as we say goodbye to this incredible woman, let us not mourn her passing, but celebrate the incredible life she lived. She was one of a kind, and we were all blessed to have known her. Rest in peace, Grandma - we will never forget you.

Eulogy for a farmer

Today we gather to celebrate the life of a man who loved nothing more than working hard under the sun, watching his land grow and thrive. [Name] was not just any farmer - he was a tireless advocate for agricultural reform and change. His passion for sustainable farming practices, conservation, and education knew no bounds.

He was never afraid to get his hands dirty or put in long hours because he believed that every crop mattered; every seed planted had the potential to make a difference. His dedication inspired those around him and helped shape the landscape of our community.

[Name] will be remembered by all as an honest, kind-hearted man who always put others first. I’ll miss his unwavering determination to better this world through agriculture and his infectious smile that brightened up everyone’s day.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when he taught me how to plant corn by hand while sharing stories about his childhood on the farm.

Another one of our community's favorite memories of [Name] is when he organized a fundraiser for local farmers affected by droughts and natural disasters.

Thank you all for being here today to honor my friend’s memory and legacy. In [name]’s words “Farming is not just a profession but also an art form”. May we carry on this art form in honor of him.

Eulogy for a teacher

We are gathered here today to say goodbye to someone very special: A teacher who dedicated her life towards social justice inside her classrooms, making sure each student felt valued and respected regardless of their background or ethnicity. She empowered students from underserved communities with access to quality education - she showed them they could achieve anything if they worked hard enough.

[name]'s legacy lives on through every student she touched during her career as an educator, instilling confidence in them whilst fighting against systemic oppression within school walls.

I’ll miss her contagious energy, witty humor, and deep compassion for everyone she met.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when she invited me to speak in her class about my personal experiences and background, empowering me to share my story confidently.

Another one of our community's favorite memories of [Name] is when she organized a rally with her students for Black Lives Matter movement that brought people together from all walks of life.

Thank you for being here today, honoring the memory and legacy of someone who dedicated their life towards ensuring social justice inside classrooms. In the words of [name], “Education can change how we view ourselves, other people, and the world”. Let’s carry on this legacy in honor of her.

Eulogy for a foster dad

We gather here today to celebrate the life of a man who was known for his unwavering dedication towards family, golfing and fostering kids - [name]. If there’s one thing that everyone knows about him- it's that he loved nothing more than spending time with those he loved and helping those in need.

[name] had an infectious personality which brought joy to all those around him. He made sure to always put his family first no matter what, while also making time for the sport he was passionate about: Golf.

He would often take foster kids along with him on these trips; providing them a chance at a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

I’ll miss his contagious laughter, generosity, and his commitment to living every day to its fullest potential.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when we went out golfing together by the lake, enjoying each other’s company over some good shots.

Another one of our community's favorite memories of [Name] is when he organized a youth-golf tournament fundraiser raising funds for underprivileged children.

Thank you all for being here today honoring someone who lived their life so fully dedicated towards their passions - Family, Golfing & Fostering Kids. In the words of [name], “Life is like a round of golf; try your best from tee to green but don't forget to enjoy the moments along the way."

Eulogy for a soldier

Today we come together as friends and family members mourning the loss of someone whose bravery knew no bounds- [name]. A soldier who sacrificed everything including her own life during deployment serving her country valiantly.

Her courage has inspired us all and reminded us that freedom sometimes comes at great cost—she gave up everything she had just so others could have something better tomorrow.

She will be remembered not only as a hero but also as a friend whose selflessness touched countless lives on and off-duty alike. Her positivity knew no bounds even in times where things felt like they couldn’t get any worse.

I’ll miss her infectious energy, unbreakable spirit and her ability to inspire people around her even in the darkest of times.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when we went on a vacation together after she returned from deployment, catching up on life post-duty and just enjoying each other’s company.

Another one of our community's favorite memories of [Name] was when she organized a fundraiser for veterans who had been wounded during active duty.

Thank you all for being here today. We celebrate someone whose profound sacrifice has given us the freedom that we enjoy today- Freedom which comes at great cost. In [name]'s words: "Duty first; self second." Let us never forget this sentiment as we honor those brave men and women who serve their country valiantly.

Eulogy for an animal activist

Today marks the passing away of a woman whose compassion for animals was unmatched - [name]. She served as President at local ASPCA chapter where she inspired others through her dedication towards animal rights advocacy and protection. Her tireless efforts led to increased awareness within our community regarding animal welfare issues such as abuse or neglect.

[name] will be remembered not only as an advocate but also as a friend to all animals; big or small. Her kindness knew no bounds and it extended beyond just domesticated pets like dogs or cats- advocating for wildlife preservation too!

I’ll miss her infectious energy, unwavering passion and her ability to inspire empathy in those around her.

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when she rescued several abandoned kittens outside our office building during lunch breaks.

Another one of our local communities’ favorite memories with [Name] was when she coordinated fundraisers which helped raise funds for medical treatment costs associated with pet care amongst low-income families.

Thank you all for being here today honoring someone who made it their mission to ensure well-being among some oft-forgotten members in society: animals. May we strive each day to extend kindness towards them, carrying on what [name] started so passionately.

Eulogy for a writer

Thank you so much for attending the services today as we gather to say goodbye to Kaleb Morris, an incredibly talented author and journalist. His work delved into the darkest corners of human behavior, shining a light on the most heinous and unthinkable crimes. Kaleb had a gift for telling stories that not only captivated readers but also helped to shed light on important issues that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.

Tragically, Kaleb's life was cut short in a boating accident, leaving behind his child and former wife, Shareece. Though we grieve for the life that has been taken from us too soon, we can also take comfort in the legacy that Kaleb leaves behind.

His writing was not just a means to entertain, but a way to make a difference in the world. Kaleb shone a light on issues that needed to be addressed, and gave a voice to those who had been silenced by violence and tragedy. He was a gifted storyteller, and his impact on the true crime genre will be felt for years to come.

Kaleb will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his work will live on as a testament to his incredible talent and dedication to his craft. Rest in peace, Kaleb.

Eulogy for a nurse practitioner

We gather to remember and honor Cherish Abrams, a beloved nurse practitioner who touched the lives of countless patients and colleagues during her 25 years of service. Cherish was known for her compassion, dedication, and expertise, and her loss is deeply felt by all who knew her.

Cherish was like a ""grandma"" to the NICU where she worked, comforting and caring for infants and families during their most vulnerable moments. Her gentle touch and kind words provided solace and hope to those in need, and her wisdom and guidance were invaluable to her colleagues.

Cherish's tragic passing is a reminder of how precious life is and how quickly it can be taken away. But even in death, she continues to inspire us with her selflessness, her unwavering dedication to her patients, and her love for her profession.

Cherish's memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her legacy will continue through the lives of the countless patients she cared for and the colleagues she mentored. May she rest in peace, knowing that she made a profound difference in the world and that she will be deeply missed.

Eulogy for a community leader

Today we gather to honor and remember the life of Michael Patel, a beloved community leader and philanthropist who dedicated his life to making the world a better place. Michael was a self-made businessman, a devoted family man, and a passionate advocate for those in need.

Throughout his life, Michael demonstrated a deep commitment to his community, supporting countless charitable organizations and causes. His generosity knew no bounds, and his impact on the lives of those he helped will never be forgotten.

Michael's passing is a great loss to us all, but his legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched and the causes he supported. We are grateful for the time we had with him and for the inspiration he provided to us all. Rest in peace, Michael, knowing that your life made a profound difference in the world and that you will be deeply missed.

Eulogy for a high school teacher

We gather here today to remember and celebrate the life of Samantha Liu, a beloved high school teacher who passed away far too soon. Samantha was a bright, energetic, and dedicated educator who brought out the best in her students and inspired them to reach for their dreams.

In her 15 years of teaching, Samantha touched the lives of countless students, colleagues, and parents. Her passion for education was infectious, and her positive energy was felt by everyone who crossed her path.

Though we mourn the loss of Samantha, we take comfort in the memories she has left behind and the impact she has had on our lives. Her legacy lives on in the countless students whose lives she touched, and in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to know her. Rest in peace, Samantha, knowing that you made a profound difference in the world and that you will be deeply missed.

Eulogy for a philanthropist

Eulogy example for loving mother.

We gather here today to celebrate the life of Emily Thompson, a beloved mother and grandmother who passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. Emily was a kind, caring, and nurturing woman who devoted her life to her loved ones.

As a mother of four and a grandmother of nine, Emily's love and devotion knew no bounds. She was the heart and soul of her family, providing comfort, support, and wisdom whenever it was needed.

Though we mourn the loss of Emily, we take comfort in the memories she has left behind and the love she shared with us all. Her legacy lives on through her family and the countless lives she touched during her lifetime. Rest in peace, Emily, knowing that you made a profound difference in the world and that you will be deeply missed.

Eulogy example for teacher

Marcus was a beloved teacher who dedicated his life to helping his students achieve their goals. He had a gift for teaching and his enthusiasm for learning was contagious. Marcus always went above and beyond to help his students, whether it was staying late to help them with homework, or just lending an ear when they needed to talk. He truly believed in the power of education to change lives, and he worked tirelessly to make sure his students had the tools they needed to succeed. Marcus was also a devoted husband and father. He met his wife, Sarah, when they were both in college, and they were inseparable ever since. They had two children together, and Marcus loved nothing more than spending time with his family. He was always there for his kids, whether it was coaching their sports teams or just reading them a bedtime story.

Marcus was diagnosed with cancer three years ago, but he never let it slow him down. He continued teaching, even when he was undergoing chemotherapy, and he always had a positive attitude. Marcus fought his illness with courage and grace, and he never lost his faith in God.

Marcus was a shining example of what it means to be a good person, and he touched the lives of everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by his students, colleagues, and his loving wife and two children.

Eulogy example for a chef

Isabella was a talented chef who had a passion for creating beautiful and delicious food. She was always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients, and her dishes were a work of art. Isabella had a natural talent for cooking, but she also worked hard to hone her skills. She attended culinary school and worked in some of the best restaurants in the city. But Isabella's love for cooking wasn't just about creating amazing dishes. She also loved the way food brought people together. Isabella was always hosting dinner parties and potlucks, and she loved nothing more than seeing people enjoy her food. She had a big heart and loved to share her food with family and friends. Her food was a way for her to show her love for the people in her life.

Isabella was also a devoted partner. She met her girlfriend, Maria, when they were both working in a restaurant, and they were inseparable ever since. They built a life together, and Isabella loved nothing more than spending time with Maria and their two dogs.

Isabella's death was a shock to everyone who knew her. She had so much talent and so much to give to the world. But even in death, Isabella's spirit lives on through her food and the memories she created for those who knew and loved her.

Eulogy for a principal

Today, we honor the life of a great educator who dedicated his life to shaping young minds and transforming our community through educational reform. We celebrate Michael's passion for education and his tireless efforts in ensuring that every child in this school district received quality education. He was not only an excellent principal but also a mentor, friend, and role model to many.

Michael was committed to providing resources necessary for students' success by creating programs that would enable them to have access to books, computers, and other learning materials. His unwavering commitment towards serving disadvantaged communities will forever be remembered.

We'll miss his vision for educational reform but are grateful for the impact he left on us all.

One of my favorite memories with Michael was when he fought tirelessly to get funding from the government so that we could add more classrooms and hire more teachers. His determination inspired me always.

Eulogy for a doctor

It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye today to Dr.[Name], an incredible physician who touched many lives during his medical career. While he loved fast cars, small dogs, and Margaritaville music, his dedication towards helping others never wavered.

Dr.[Name] had a way of putting people at ease whenever they were anxious about their health issues; he made you feel like everything would be okay no matter what happened.

He lived life fully and inspired those around him while doing so - even while battling his own illness—always encouraging others never to give up hope or lose faith in themselves.

I’ll miss his sense of humor but am lost without his guidance on how I should take care of myself better!

Another one of my favorite memories with Dr.[Name] is when he took me out on a ride-along in his sports car after work one day! He loved living life vicariously through little adventures like these!

Eulogy for someone who followed their dream

Today we gather here to honor [Name], who was a brilliant data analyst with a desire to become a potato farmer in Europe. He had an insatiable love for his lineage and dreamt of starting his farm there.

[Name] loved data analysis, but he also believed that there was more to life than crunching numbers. His passion for agriculture inspired him to follow his dream of farming potatoes and reconnecting with his roots.

He will be missed for his gentle nature and quiet strength. Still, we can all take comfort in knowing that he lived life on his terms and pursued what made him happy.

One of my absolute favorite moments was when [Name] shared pictures of the farmland where he hoped to start farming someday—his eyes lit up as he spoke about it so passionately!

Eulogy for a CEO who swapped careers

Today marks the passing away of someone incredibly special- a CEO turned dog trainer specializing in corgis- [Name].

[Name]'s career shift from being a successful CEO reflected how passionate she was about dogs, especially corgis! Her love for them was unmatched, and she spent her later years training them.

She was an inspiration to many who dreamed of following their passion. She showed that it's never too late to start something new, no matter how old you are!

We'll miss her business acumen but are grateful for the legacy she left behind. [Name] lived a life filled with happiness and fulfillment, doing what made her happiest - surrounded by pups!

One of my favorite memories with [Name] is when I visited her training facility and saw all the corgis happily playing under her watchful eye; it was a beautiful sight to see!

Eulogy for a small business owner

Today we celebrate the life of our beloved community leader [Name], who served tirelessly on city council while running one of the most popular sandwich shops in town.

[Name] had an unwavering commitment towards serving others; she dedicated her time, energy, and resources towards making our community better. From creating programs for at-risk youth to supporting small businesses like hers financially - she did it all without asking anything in return.

She brought people together through her sandwiches, which were not only delicious but also affordable! Her relentless dedication towards serving her customers helped establish her business as one of the best sandwich shops around town.

We are grateful for everything [Name] did during her lifetime, and we know that her legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

Another one of our family's favorite memories with [Name] is when she would often give us free sandwiches if we couldn't afford them! She truly cared about everyone who came into her shop!

5.Today marks the passing away of someone incredibly special- a CEO turned dog trainer specializing in corgis- [Name].

Ladies and Gentlemen,

We gather here today to celebrate the life of a remarkable woman, a mother, an engineer, a farmer, a community activist, and a beloved friend to many. [Name] was a beacon of strength, compassion, and unwavering love.

Born 58 years ago, [Name] was a woman of many talents and passions. She pursued an engineering degree with the determination and brilliance that defined her character. Not one to rest on her laurels, she furthered her education with a Master’s in Agricultural Sciences, a field where she found her true calling.

[Name] was not just a scholar but a practitioner. Her homestead was her haven, a place where she cultivated not just crops but a sense of community. She loved farming, a passion that was evident in the thriving fields and the abundance she shared with her neighbors. Her produce fed not just bodies but souls, fostering a sense of unity and support in our community.

As a mother of twins, [Name] was phenomenal. Her love for her children knew no bounds. She was bright and thoughtful, always finding the right balance between nurturing and guiding her children with patience and wisdom. Her love was the foundation upon which her family stood strong.

Her battle with lung cancer was a testament to her incredible resilience and strength. Even in the face of illness, she remained an active and dedicated member of our community. Her activism and her unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of those around her were truly inspiring.

[Name] was more than her accomplishments; she was a person of immense warmth and kindness. She had a unique ability to make everyone feel seen and heard. Her thoughtful nature, her loving heart, and her unwavering patience were qualities that left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Today, as we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her life and the indelible mark she left on all of us. Her legacy is not just in the fields she tilled or the degrees she earned but in the lives she touched and the love she spread.

Let us remember [Name] not with tears but with the joy and gratitude for having had the privilege of knowing such an extraordinary woman. Her spirit will forever live on in our hearts and in the community she so dearly loved and served.

Rest in peace, [Name]. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy will continue to inspire and guide us.

Eulogy for [Name]

Ladies and Gentlemen, family, and friends,

Today, we gather to celebrate the life of an extraordinary man, a loving father, a dedicated foster parent, and a pillar of our community, [Name]. He was a man of boundless generosity, unwavering love, and unparalleled dedication to his family and community.

Born 62 years ago, [Name] was the proud father of four wonderful children. But his heart was so vast that it couldn't be confined to just his own; over the years, he opened his home and heart to more than 15 foster children. Each child who came into his life was embraced with the same love and care as his own. He was not just a father but a beacon of hope and love for all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Tragically, [Name] passed away after a sudden heart attack. His departure has left a void that is felt deeply by all of us, but his legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire us.

Family vacations were always a highlight of the year, meticulously coordinated by [Name]. He ensured that each trip was filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Whether it was camping in the great outdoors, exploring new cities, or simply spending time together, these moments were cherished by all, thanks to his thoughtful planning.

[Name] had a passion for cooking and baking, often seen in the kitchen whipping up delicious meals and treats. He shared this love not only with his family but also with underprivileged families, teaching them how to cook and build healthy meals. His culinary skills brought warmth and nourishment to so many lives.

His hands were never idle, always busy fixing or building something. He had a remarkable talent for organizing and creating, leaving behind a legacy of beautifully crafted items and well-maintained homes. His ability to turn chaos into order was nothing short of magical.

Every year, [Name] competed in a marathon, showcasing his determination, strength, and dedication. His participation was not just about personal achievement but also about inspiring others to push their limits and strive for their best.

Beyond his immediate family, [Name] extended his care and compassion to the wider community. He served on the board of three community food kitchens, tirelessly working to ensure that those in need were fed and cared for. His commitment to these causes was a testament to his selflessness and desire to make the world a better place.

Beloved by all his children and family members, [Name]'s love was a constant, reassuring presence in their lives. His wisdom, guidance, and unwavering support were the foundation upon which they built their lives.

As we say our final goodbyes, let us remember [Name] not with sadness for his passing, but with gratitude for the incredible impact he had on our lives. His spirit will live on in the love he shared, the lives he touched, and the countless memories we hold dear.

Rest in peace, dear [Name]. You will forever be in our hearts, a shining example of love, kindness, and dedication.

Eulogy for theater director

We gather here today to honor the life of someone truly unique, a person who touched each of our lives in ways we will never forget—[Name]. At just 59 years old, [Name] left us far too soon, taken by a sudden brain aneurysm. Though his time with us was shorter than we wished, the impact he made will remain with us forever.

As an art director and talent manager at KMC Theater in Kentucky, [Name] was a force behind the scenes, guiding creativity and passion with a quiet but unyielding presence. The arts were his true love, and he found immense joy in his work. His dedication to nurturing talent and creating beautiful, meaningful art left an indelible mark on the theater community and on all those who had the privilege of working with him. His colleagues often spoke of his stoicism—his ability to stay calm and focused, no matter the challenges they faced. But behind that calm exterior was a deep well of passion for the arts and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Outside of work, [Name] was a homebody, an introvert who found comfort and peace in the familiar. Yet, when he was at a party, he was the life of it, effortlessly balancing his quiet nature with a surprising ability to connect with others. His friends and family knew him as a man who could make you feel seen and heard, even in a crowded room.

Though he never had children of his own, [Name] was a wonderful uncle—a figure of love, wisdom, and guidance to his nieces and nephews. He relished his role, offering support and encouragement, always with a gentle smile and a listening ear. His presence in their lives was a gift they will carry with them always.

[Name] had a love for trying new things, even if it didn’t always go as planned—particularly in the kitchen. He was, by his own admission, a terrible cook. But that never stopped him from experimenting with new recipes, often to the amusement of those who were brave enough to try his culinary creations. It was just one of the many ways he showed us the importance of embracing life with curiosity and a sense of humor.

Today, as we say our goodbyes, we remember a man who was more than just an art director or a talent manager. He was a beloved uncle, a dear friend, a quiet soul with a heart full of passion. His life, though brief, was rich with meaning and love. We will miss his wisdom, his laughter, his unique presence. But we will carry his spirit with us, in the art he helped create, in the memories we shared, and in the lessons he taught us about living fully and with passion.

Rest in peace, dear [Name]. You will be missed more than words can express.

To capture more memories of your loved one, consider creating a memorial website . Memorial websites are excellent tools that help you share event details, post an obituary, collect memories, and raise funds in someone’s name. They’re easy to set up, easy to use and completely free.

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Help protect your family, get free grief support, 13+ tribute ideas for a father who has died.

Paying tribute to a father who has passed away is a common gesture children and others want to make. You’ll often find tributes in books, art, film, poems, and other media, but these aren’t the only places to pay tribute to someone you’ve lost or to someone important to you. You can also pay tribute

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If you’re looking for a place to memorialize the life of someone you loved, share their story with others, and/or connect your community around the life of your loved one, a memorial website is a great place to start. What is a memorial website? A memorial website (which can be referred to

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Funeral Thank You Notes: 21 Wording Examples

A funeral is always an emotional and incredibly difficult time. Having lost a loved one you are feeling dazed and crushed. But soon after a funeral you might start to think about sending your funeral thank you cards.

When people have shown their support, be that through sending you a card or message of sympathy , flowers or just being at the funeral, you will probably want to thank them.

But knowing what you say or write in your thank you notes can be hard. How do you express the appreciation you feel for the support shown during such a tough time.

If you’re struggling with your funeral thank you notes then this guide will show you what to write, when to send them and some useful wording examples amongst much more.

Hopefully it will give you the confidence and any help that’s needed to make the process of sending sympathy thank you notes that much simpler.

Table of Contents

Funeral Thank You Wording

Whilst you can write your thank you cards any way you want, the following guide is a good template for how to construct a simple note of thanks:

• Start your thank you note by addressing the recipient – “Dear ______” is the standard greeting and works perfectly for a message of thanks
• Next thank them for their support, condolences, gift or whatever way they were there for you. Something simple like “thank you so much for thinking of me during such a difficult time. You words were really comforting when I need them most”
• Follow this with a thoughtful sentiment or few words about how they helped – “I will never forget your support and friendship”
• End your note or card by possibly saying thanks again or something like “All my love” before signing your name (handwritten rather than printed)

Your note doesn’t have to be anything particularly special but just ensure it acknowledges whatever it was the recipient did and offers your thanks.

Sample Thank You Notes for After a Funeral

The example thank you messages here are split into different categories – thank you for attending the funeral, for helping with it, for flowers, money/donations and condolences.

Thank You Wording for Attending the Funeral

When sending a note to someone who attended the funeral, be that family, friend or acquaintance, make it clear you appreciated them being there and any effort it may have taken them to come.

Dear ______,

Thank you so much for being at the funeral. It was really important to us for you to be there and we know it would have meant the world to [the deceased’s name].

******************

We were so pleased you could make the funeral and even more so to hear the wonderful memories and stories you shared. To remember [deceased’s name] in such a heartwarming way was so appreciated by the entire family.

We were touched greatly have you attend [deceased’s name]’s funeral. He/she would have definitely wanted you there, without a doubt. Thank you for your support.

Your presence at [deceased’s name]’s funeral was greatly welcomed. We wanted all his/her friends to be there so it wouldn’t have been the same without you. Thank you for making the effort.

Thank You for Helping with the Funeral Notes

Thank those who help plan or arrange the funeral with these message examples.

Thank you for all your help with planning the funeral. We couldn’t have done it without you.

When you volunteered to help it took such a burden off my shoulders. It made a huge difference and allowed for everything to go smoothly. I really appreciate the assistance, thank you so much.

Kind regards,

The planning of the funeral was very stressful so having someone to take on some of the load was a relief. Thank you for all you did, I won’t forget it.

Many thanks,

You made a really hard day that bit easier. Thank you for your help and support, it was truly appreciated.

Wording for Money

If someone made a donation or sent a gift then these thank you note samples will show you how to offer your gratitude for their kind gesture.

We can’t find the words to thank you enough for your donation. It has eased so much pressure off of us during this awful period and we appreciate it enormously.

Thank you so much for your generosity. It was such a kind gesture and one we truly appreciate.

Your donation in the honor of [deceased’s name] was absolutely amazing – a really heartwarming gesture. As a family we were so pleased to see how much he/she meant to you.

Such a thoughtful donation has not gone unnoticed. We were both shocked and thrilled to see your incredible generosity. Our thanks and gratitude.

For Funeral Flowers

Many people send flowers to a funeral. Use these thank you messages to show your appreciation for a beautiful bouquet.

We are so grateful for the lovely flowers you sent to the funeral. They were beautiful and really helped brighten a tough day.

All our love,

Thank you for your beautiful arrangement. It was so thoughtful and we are beyond grateful to have received it.

The gorgeous flowers you sent were just perfect. To have your support and love throughout this time has been a blessing.

I know that [deceased’s name] would have loved the flower arrangement you sent. Thank you for a lovely gesture.

Sympathy Thank You’s

You will probably have received some messages of condolence , so thank those people for their kind words with these notes.

Thank you ever so much for your kind words and thoughts. It’s been incredibly difficult so knowing friends are there during our hardest moments is

I can’t express how touched I was by your card and kind words. It means the world to me to receive such support at this time. Thank you for everything.

It’s at the toughest times that real friends show their worth, and having you there for support and a shoulder to cry on has been invaluable. I will never forget it.

All my love,

Condolence Thank You Notes

Thank you for your warm condolences. It’s been so hard to try and find any comfort but having friends like you is a real blessing.

Thank you for reaching out and for showing such understanding. Your card was a kind and thoughtful gesture, one that helped during such a difficult period.

Tips for Writing Your Thank You Notes

• Don’t worry about making your notes impressive and very ‘wordy’ i.e long. Short and to the point is ideal. Be honest and speak from the heart and that will be good enough.
• If you have a large number of thank you’s to write and send and so need some help you can buy packs of thank you notes with prewritten messages printed in them. If you decide to go this way then try to include a short personalized message too.
• Even if it’s been some time since the funeral has happened don’t worry about it being too late to send your notes. Ideally, if you can, you’d send them within a few weeks of the funeral. But people will understand if you’re busy with other things during such a difficult time and so if it takes longer than that they won’t mind.
• If the list of people to thank is just too long or overwhelming then don’t be afraid to ask for some help. A family member or close friend will be glad to offer some assistance in getting through them all.
• If you do take some time with sending your notes then remember to sign your full name or include your last name. This is especially key for those you aren’t that close to or know that well.
• If you would prefer to sign your note “from the family of…” then that’s perfectly fine. Often thank you notes are sent on behalf of a family instead of one single person. However if the flowers, gift, card etc. was addressed to you directly then you can just sign your own name.

Acknowledging the time, effort and thought that went into friends and loved ones involvement in a funeral is not only polite but should be rewarding.

Hopefully the funeral thank you note examples provided here will have helped you to write your own notes and make it clear how much you needed and appreciated their support.

Sally Collins is a writer and the founder and owner of Sympathy Message Ideas. Her passion is to help others deal with grief and provide assistance with talking to those grieving.  Learn more about Sally .

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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

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.

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In writing your speech , it’s important to demonstrate the personal relationship you shared with the deceased. It’s necessary that you give the congregation an insight into the person’s life as it related to your own.

If you want to relate a situation or event that occurred in the deceased’s life, do so tastefully.

Your aim is not to deliver a stand-up comedy routine, but rather, a poignant and potentially somewhat humorous view of who the deceased was and what they meant to you.

A funeral speech is difficult to deliver if you’re feeling over-emotional. You cannot afford to break down and cry in the moment.  

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That’s not to say that you cannot show your emotions and grief. But you must be able to get through the speech you have prepared.

Finally, don’t use a funeral speech as an opportunity to settle old scores or tell others about unfinished business between yourself and the deceased.

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.  

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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

How To Write a Funeral Speech With Eulogy Examples

Looking for the right words to say? We’ve compiled the most heartfelt, personal funeral speech examples to help you honor your loved one’s memory.

Standing in a room full of people to deliver a eulogy for a loved one is one of life's most challenging tasks. The weight of finding the right words to honor a life well-lived can be overwhelming. It’s nerve-wracking — but it’s also an honor.

You want to do your best to get it right. And we’re here to help.

This article contains practical advice and inspiration (plus, some funeral speech examples) to help you write a heartfelt and memorable eulogy.

Whether you're a skilled orator or someone who struggles with public speaking, these steps will guide you through the process of writing a funeral speech for a family member or a friend — something that truly celebrates their life.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Funeral Speech

From gathering memories and structuring your speech to writing with authenticity and emotion, here are the steps you can take to find the support you need to write a funeral speech for family members.

Step 1: Gather information and inspiration

Start by gathering memories, stories, and anecdotes. Make notes of what you feel about them. Reach out to family members and close friends to collect their memories and stories. Ask them about the moments that stood out, the qualities they admired, and the experiences that made an impact. 

These personal insights will provide the foundation for your eulogy, ensuring that it reflects the individuality and spirit of the person you’re honoring.

Additionally, spend time reviewing old photos, letters, and personal belongings. These items can stir memories and bring to mind moments you might want to include in your speech. 

Photos can remind you of significant events, travels, and achievements, while letters and other mementos might reveal your loved one’s thoughts, values, or personality in ways that words alone cannot. 

This process will help gather content and provide a comforting way to connect with your memories during this difficult time.

Step 2: Structure the eulogy

Once you’ve gathered your thoughts and stories, the next step is to structure the eulogy in a way that flows logically and emotionally. A well-organized speech helps to convey your message clearly and keeps the audience engaged.

Here are some typical components of a eulogy:

• Introduction: Begin with a brief introduction that acknowledges the gathering and sets the tone for the eulogy. You might start by introducing yourself, especially if not everyone in the audience knows you.  Then, briefly mention who the departed was to you (a parent, sibling, or friend) and touch on their importance in your life. You could include a quote, a poem, or a reflection that resonates with the person’s life. ‍
• Main body: This is the heart of your eulogy, where you share the memories, stories, and qualities that defined your loved one. Consider organizing the main body thematically or chronologically.  For example, you could focus on different aspects of their life — such as their childhood, career, hobbies, and relationships — or you might choose to highlight their character traits , like kindness, humor, or perseverance. Use the anecdotes and stories you’ve gathered to illustrate these points, making sure to balance lighter moments with more serious reflections. ‍
• Conclusion: Bring your thoughts together with a final reflection on your loved one’s life . This could be a summary of the impact they had on those around them or a message of hope and remembrance for the future.  You might also close with a quote, a final wish, or a call to action, encouraging those present to honor the deceased’s memory in their own lives. ‍

Organizing your thoughts (logically and emotionally) is crucial to delivering a eulogy that feels cohesive and heartfelt. 

Start by listing the key points you want to cover, such as specific memories, qualities, and messages. Then, arrange these points in a way that feels natural and emotionally resonant. 

For example, you might start with lighter, more joyful memories and gradually move toward more profound reflections, allowing the audience to journey with you through a range of emotions.

Remember, the goal is not to create a perfect speech but to convey your genuine feelings and memories in a way that honors your loved one. Take the time to structure your eulogy thoughtfully.

Step 3: Personalize the eulogy

This step makes your speech really resonate with those in attendance. Personalization honors the departed and provides comfort and connection to those who are grieving. Here’s how you can achieve that:

• Highlight achievements, hobbies, and passions: Reflect on the major achievements in your loved one’s life. This could include career milestones, personal accomplishments, or contributions to their community.  Discussing these achievements shows how they made a difference in the world and the lives of those around them. For example, if your loved one was passionate about volunteering, you could share stories of the impact they had on the lives they touched through their service.  ‍ If they were an avid gardener, you might talk about how their love for plants brought beauty into the lives of friends and family, perhaps even sharing a story about a particularly beloved garden or plant they tended to. ‍
• Use personal anecdotes to illustrate character and impact: Personal anecdotes bring to life the character and impact of the person being remembered. These stories can be humorous, touching, or a mix of both.  For example, you might share a story about a time when their sense of humor lightened a difficult situation or how their kindness helped a friend through a tough time. These anecdotes help highlight their personality and remind everyone present of the moments they shared. ‍
• Respect and integrate cultural traditions: Consider and respect any cultural or religious traditions that were significant to your loved one. This might involve incorporating specific rituals, prayers, or symbols into the eulogy or the service itself.  For instance, in some cultures, it’s customary to read a particular prayer or poem, light candles, or play a certain type of music. If your loved one was deeply connected to their cultural heritage, integrate these elements to make the eulogy more meaningful. ‍
• Quotes, poetry, or song lyrics: Do this to add depth and resonance to your eulogy. Choose words that reflect the spirit of your loved one or that express sentiments you find difficult to put into your own words. For example, you might include a line from a favorite poem that they loved or that perfectly captures their outlook on life. A short, meaningful quote can serve as a powerful conclusion to a section of your eulogy , helping to tie together the memories and themes you’ve discussed.

Step 4: Write with emotion and authenticity

Writing a eulogy is not just about recounting facts; it’s about conveying emotions and memories associated with your loved one. Here are some points to keep in mind:

• A well-rounded eulogy often incorporates a mix of emotions — there’s room for humor, sentiment, and solemn reflection . Humor can provide relief in a heavy moment and remind everyone of the joy the person brought into their lives.  For example, sharing a funny anecdote can lighten the mood and help the audience connect with the memories in a positive way. However, it’s important to ensure that the humor is respectful and appropriate to the setting. ‍
• Emotion and solemnity should also be present, as these reflect the seriousness of the occasion and the depth of your feelings. Share moments of tenderness, gratitude, and love, allowing yourself to be vulnerable. The audience will connect with your sincerity, and it will help them process their own emotions as well. ‍ ‍
• When writing your eulogy, speak from the heart. Use simple, direct language that conveys your feelings honestly. Instead of trying to impress with elaborate words, focus on being sincere and true to your emotions. Think about what you truly want to say to honor your loved one, and let that guide your words. ‍ ‍
• Don’t be afraid to show your emotions as you write — tears and laughter are both part of the grieving process . If you’re comfortable, let these emotions flow into your writing. This authenticity will resonate with your audience and make your speech more impactful. ‍ ‍
• It’s easy to fall into using clichés when writing a eulogy, but try to avoid them where possible. Phrases like “they’re in a better place” or “they’ll always be with us” can feel impersonal and overused.  Instead, focus on what made your loved one unique. Highlight their quirks, their habits, the little things that defined them — these are what the audience will remember and cherish. ‍
• Describe specific moments or traits that capture the individual’s essence. For example, rather than saying someone was kind, describe a time when they went out of their way to help someone else. These details bring the person to life in the minds of those listening and create a more personal and meaningful tribute.

Step 5: Craft a compelling opening and closing

Your opening should draw the audience in and make them feel connected from the start. You might begin with a powerful quote, a heartfelt memory, or a statement that captures your loved one’s spirit. 

For example, you could start with, “When I think of [Name], I’m reminded of how they always had a way of making everyone in the room feel seen and valued.” This immediately sets a warm, reflective tone.

Another approach could be to acknowledge the difficulty of the moment while expressing gratitude for those who have come to honor the person who has passed away. This helps to unify the audience in shared purpose and emotion.

The closing of your eulogy is your final opportunity to leave the audience with something meaningful. You may end with a message of hope, a reflection on the person’s lasting impact, or a call to action — encouraging those present to carry forward the values and love that their loved one embodied.

For example, you could conclude with, “Let us remember [Name] not just today, but in the way we live our lives — in kindness, in joy, and love, just as they did.” This provides a sense of continuity and honors their legacy.

Alternatively, you might end with a simple, heartfelt goodbye or a moment of silence to allow everyone to reflect on their own memories.

Funeral Speech Examples for Various Relationships

We’ve put together a few funeral-speech examples that you could gain inspiration from when writing your own.

These examples are entirely fictional and have been created for illustrative purposes only. Our goal is to inspire and guide you as you write something of your own.

Any resemblance to real persons, living or deceased, is purely coincidental. Please use these examples as a starting point to craft a personalized and meaningful tribute that truly captures the essence of your loved one’s life and legacy.

1. Eulogy example for a parent

"My father, Robert 'Bob' Caldwell, was a man of few words. He taught me more through his quiet determination than any lecture ever could. As I stand here today, I'm reminded of the countless weekends we spent in his workshop, the smell of sawdust filling the air as he patiently guided my clumsy hands through each project.

“Dad never sought the spotlight, but his impact on our community was undeniable. For 30 years, he volunteered at the local animal shelter, arriving every Saturday morning without fail to walk the dogs no one else wanted to. I remember him coming home once, covered in mud and wearing the biggest grin, because he'd finally gotten 'Old Grumpy' (our notoriously difficult bulldog) to play fetch.

“My father's love for our family was as steady as his workshop routine. He may not have said 'I love you' often, but he showed it in a thousand little ways - from never missing a single one of my terrible middle school band concerts to learning to bake the world's most lopsided birthday cakes when Mom was ill.

“In his final days, as we sat together watching his beloved Red Sox, he turned to me and said, 'You know, kiddo, I think I did alright.' Dad, you did more than alright. You showed us all how to live with integrity, kindness, and purpose. Your legacy lives on in the values you instilled in us and the countless lives you touched. 

“Rest easy, Dad. We'll take it from here."

2. Eulogy example for a spouse

"Maria Gonzalez was not just my wife. She was my North Star and the love of my life for 37 incredible years. When we met at that crowded college party, I never imagined that the woman who accidentally spilled her drink on me would become the person I couldn't imagine living without.

“Maria had this infectious laugh that could light up a room. I swear, half the neighborhood knew when she found something funny. Her passion for life was matched only by her compassion for others. As a pediatric nurse, she touched countless lives, and I lost count of the times former patients would stop us in the grocery store to thank her.

“She turned our house into a warm, welcoming haven, not just for our kids but for every stray friend or neighbor who needed a safe place. Her famous 'emergency enchiladas' became legendary; I think she fed most teenagers in town over the years.

“Maria faced her illness with the same grace and humor that she approached everything in life with. Even on her toughest days, she'd find a way to make her doctors laugh or comfort a fellow patient. In our last conversation, she made me promise to keep her garden alive and to never, ever attempt to cook her secret salsa recipe.

“My love, I will miss your terrible puns, your off-key singing in the shower, and the way you always knew exactly what I needed before I did. The world is dimmer without your light, but I promise to keep shining it forward in your memory.”

3. Eulogy example for a child

"Our sweet Lily was only with us for six short years, but in that time, she filled our lives with more joy, laughter, and love than we ever thought possible. From the moment she entered this world, with her bright eyes and curious fingers, Lily had a way of making everyone around her smile.

“Lily was our little adventurer. She approached life with an enthusiasm that was both inspiring and, frankly, a little exhausting on some days. I'll never forget the day we found her in the backyard, covered head to toe in mud, proudly showing off the 'fairy house' she'd built for the garden squirrels. Her imagination knew no bounds.

“Despite the challenges she faced with her health, Lily never lost her spark. Even during hospital stays, she'd insist on wearing her favorite tutu and tiara, declaring herself a princess. The nurses adored her, often sneaking in extra Jell-O cups just to see her face light up.

“In her final days, Lily taught us about courage and grace beyond her years. She worried more about comforting us than herself, always ready with a hug and her favorite phrase: ‘I’m okay, Mommy and Daddy.'

“Lily, my darling, you were right. You’re okay now. You’re better than okay; you showed us how to find joy in every moment and love in every challenge. We'll carry you with us always, our beautiful, brave little girl."

4. Eulogy example for a sibling

"My brother, Marcus, was more than just my older sibling — he was my protector, my confidant, and quite often, my partner in mischief. Growing up, there was no adventure too daring, no tree too high to climb, as long as Marcus was by my side.

“As we got older, our adventures changed, but our bond grew stronger. Marcus had this uncanny ability to show up exactly when you needed him. I can't count the number of times he appeared at my door with a pint of ice cream and a terrible movie, somehow knowing I'd had a rough day.

“Marcus lived life with a truly unmatched passion. He threw himself wholeheartedly into everything he did, whether it was mastering a new recipe in the kitchen (his paella was legendary), training for marathons, or fighting for causes he believed in. His work with local youth programs changed countless lives, and I know many of those kids saw in Marcus the same hero I always did.

“In our last conversation, Marcus made me promise to keep living life to the fullest and to keep seeking out new adventures. He said, 'Life's too short for regrets, sis. Make it count.' And that's exactly what I intend to do.

“As we remember Marcus today, I ask each of you to take a moment to appreciate the loved ones in your life. Let's honor Marcus's memory by cherishing every moment we have with those we care about, just as he did.

“Now, I invite you all to join me in a moment of silence. Let's reflect on the joy he brought to our lives and the lessons he taught us about living fully and loving deeply.

[Pause for a moment of silence]

“Thank you. Let's carry Marcus's spirit of adventure, laughter, and love with us always. May we all strive to 'make it count' in our own lives, just as he did in his."

5. Eulogy example for a friend

"I stand here today to celebrate the life of my dear friend, Jasmine Chen. A force of nature — brilliant, passionate, and fiercely loyal.

“Our friendship began 20 years ago in college, in the chemistry lab. She saved our experiment from disaster with quick thinking and a fire extinguisher, grinning, 'Well, that's one way to break the ice.'

“Jasmine approached everything with determination and humor. From groundbreaking research to organizing charity runs in ridiculous costumes, she poured her whole heart into it. She brought people together, creating family wherever she went.

“I'll miss our coffee dates when we'd solve the world's problems. Well, at least we’d leave feeling like we did. Jasmine made you feel heard and understood, even when challenging your perspective. Her curious mind always sought to understand more about the world and its people.

“Jasmine lived by her favorite Toni Morrison quote: 'If you have some power, then your job is to empower somebody else.' And she did. Her research will impact lives for years, but her greatest legacy is the love and inspiration she left in all of us.

“To my dear friend: Thank you for sharing your joy, support, and for showing us how to live with purpose. We'll honor you by embracing life with your enthusiasm. As you'd say, quoting your beloved David Bowie, 'I don't know where I'm going from here, but I promise it won't be boring.' Your impact will continue to ripple outwards, Jasmine. Rock on, my friend."

Meadow Gives More Opportunities to Honor a Loved One Your Way

We hope this helps you find the right words for the funeral speech, whether for a family member or a friend. We encourage you to use the eulogy examples as a starting point. 

Here at Meadow , we specialize in compassionate and meaningful memorial planning.

Our comprehensive packages and support help you create a memorial service to reflect your loved one's spirit. We allow you to honor their memory on your terms because:

• We’re with you at every step. A brief call allows us to understand your needs and preferences. We'll then pair you with a professional memorial planner who will be your dedicated guide throughout the process.
• We focus on what matters. Our planner will handle all the logistics, from venue selection to vendor coordination, so you can focus on what matters most — spending time with loved ones.
• We take care of the details. Your dedicated planner will manage everything from food and flowers, sending invitations, booking catering, and managing your photo slideshow for the event.
• We customize. Tell us about your loved one's personality and interests. We create unique events to reflect their life for a truly personal celebration. ‍ ‍
• We’re transparent. Our cremation package is $1,295 , and you can add on a memorial service package starting at $1,970 .

Let us help you create a beautiful and lasting tribute to your loved one. 

‍ Explore our personalized memorial services .

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The Meadow Cremation package includes everything you need for a simple cremation.

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Everything you need for a traditional memorial service at one of our partner chapels.

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from $3,900

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Our team is standing by 24/7 to guide you through this process.

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51 Thank You Message After Funeral Samples (Heartfelt & Inspiring)

After the funeral, it can be difficult to know what to say in a thank you note. These sample messages will help give you an idea of how to word your thoughts and express your gratitude. Whether you send a handwritten note or an email, these sentiments will show your appreciation for those who attended the funeral and supported you during this difficult time.

#1 Thank you for coming to the funeral and showing your support. We all need our friends when we grieve, and it means a great deal to my family and me that you were there. Thank you for letting us know we aren’t alone in our time of need.

#2 The other day was difficult to get through but knowing I had friends like you by my side fighting alongside me made the pain a little less intense. Now that [name of lost loved one] is gone, I will carry him/her in my memories forever. Thank you for celebrating [his/her] life with us and helping us be strong even when things seemed bleak.

#3 Thanks for attending the funeral; it meant more to me than words can express. Your presence was the best thing you could have done for me at a time when my heart felt as though it had been ripped from my chest. I will never forget how kind and supportive you were to my family and me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being there for us.

#4 Thank you so much for coming to support me at [name of lost loved one]’s funeral. Seeing your face gave me some peace amidst this difficult time, and I am grateful that we can be there to help each other through these terrible experiences. Thank you again for your kindness during our loss.

#5 Thank you for coming to the funeral of our loved one. It was comforting to see you among the crowd, and your presence reminded us that we are not alone on this journey of grief. Having you there made all the difference in providing some measure of comfort during this difficult time.

#6 Thank you so very much for attending the funeral of our beloved [name of lost loved one]. Although I am sure your schedule is very busy, it meant a great deal to me that you took the time out of your day to be with us. Your support has been invaluable, even if it is just being here with me now as I write this thank-you note. Thank you again for supporting my family and honoring my lost loved one’s memory.

#7 I cannot tell you how grateful I am that you were able to attend [name of lost loved one]’s funeral. We all needed a friendly face in the crowd, and seeing your smiling face brought me comfort during an otherwise trying time. Thank you so much for being there with us on this sad day.

#8 Thank you for attending [name of lost loved one]’s funeral. You have no idea how much it meant to me that you would take the time out of your busy schedule to be there with my family during this difficult time. Your kindness has given me some measure of hope at a point where I was feeling hopeless. Thank you again for coming and for supporting my family during their time of need.

#9 I cannot thank you enough for coming to the funeral and for supporting me and my family in our time of need. Allowing us to grieve together was a great relief and the sympathy you showed brought tears to my eyes (again). Your kindness was very much appreciated and will not be forgotten.

#10 Thank you so much for being there at the remembrance service [or funeral, if held]. Your continued support is very much appreciated by me and those people who love me as well as those who loved [name] too. We all felt your presence as we said farewell to someone we cared about so deeply. Thank you again, really! I just want to say once more how thankful we were that you came here today/yesterday/and shared this moment with us.

#11 Thank you for coming to the funeral and supporting me as I said my final goodbye to [name]. The fact that you were there helped ease my heartache just a little bit. I could tell that it meant a lot to my family too, so thank you from all of us for showing up.

#12 Thank you for allowing me to cry on your shoulder and offering me a safe place to land. I truly appreciate your words of wisdom and encouragement. I know that nothing any of us does or says can bring [name of lost loved one] back, but it seems as if you somehow knew what we needed during this time. Thank you for providing it.

#13 We know that there were many other people who wanted to attend the funeral who could not make it because they were busy with their own lives and responsibilities. We thank everyone for their kind wishes and prayers – all have helped see us through this difficult period in our lives.

#14 It was so good having friends like you at the funeral! Although we are still struggling to cope with our loss, your support meant the world to us. Thank you for sharing in our pain and grief; we are thankful that you were there.

#15 I cannot begin to tell you how much it meant to me knowing I was not alone at the funeral of our beloved [name of lost loved one]. You lifted my shattered spirit with your generous visit. Thank you very, very much!

#16 Having supportive friends like you at the funeral helped bring closure to this dark chapter in our lives. We will never forget your kindness and generosity during this difficult time. May God bless each of you for helping us through this trying period in our lives.

#17 Thank you so much for attending the funeral services of [name of lost loved one] – it is great comfort knowing he was loved by so many people. Thank you for helping us through this trying time; your compassion and support has been greatly appreciated.

#18 Thank you for setting aside your own grief in order to attend the funeral of [name of lost loved one]. Your healthy presence was appreciated more than you know. We thank you profusely for coming and sharing in our sorrow; we know that there were others who wanted to be there but could not make it.

#19 I cannot begin to tell you how much I appreciate your kind thoughts and words during such a traumatic time in my life. You have no idea how much it meant to me knowing [that] [you] came all the way from [place] just to attend the memorial service/funeral for [name of lost loved one]. We send our love and appreciation.

#20 I am so grateful for your thoughtful words and generous presence at the funeral services for [name of lost loved one]. Your support has helped me get through this dark period in my life; I will never forget how much it meant to me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

#21 Thank you for attending the memorial service/funeral and sharing your wonderful memories about [name of lost loved one]. It means a lot to us that we can finally say goodbye after such a long period of time waiting to lay him to rest. May God bless your entire family.

#22 Your kind presence was greatly appreciated, especially at such a sad time as this. The overwhelming grief I felt upon losing our beloved [name] seemed a little lighter knowing so many people came to pay their respects. Thank you for being there – I cannot put into words what your support meant to me.

#23 I have been going through so much lately and your visit, card, and generous donation were more than I could ever ask for during this dark time in my life. May God bless you as you go on with your lives. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

#24 Your presence at the memorial service/funeral was absolutely wonderful to behold. You lifted our spirits by sharing those wonderful memories about our daughter/son . We thank you from the bottom of our hearts; we needed that more than anything else right now…

#25 When I saw you at the funeral, you lifted my spirits and brought a smile to my face. It is a feeling that will never leave me as long as I live. Thank you for coming and showing your support.

#26 When I see your name on this card, it brings warmth to my heart—overflowing with gratitude for being there by my side during those dark hours. Words cannot express how much it meant to have you share in our grief as we said goodbye to [name of lost loved one]. You shall always have a special place in my heart, so thank you from the depths of mine.

#27 Having someone who cares enough about you to show up at the funeral despite their busy schedule is a gift beyond measure. Thank you for bringing a smile to my face during a time that was anything but happy. Seeing you at the funeral meant everything and then some. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

#28 When I see your name on this card, it brings warmth to my heart—overflowing with gratitude for being there by my side during those dark hours. Words cannot express how much it meant to have you share in our grief as we said goodbye to [name of lost loved one]. You shall always have a special place in my heart, so thank you from the depths of mine.

#29 I don’t know what I would have done if you hadn’t made the time to come pay your respects at the funeral. There are no words strong enough to convey just how grateful I am for your kindness, but please know that it has touched my heart. Thank you so much for being there with me.

#30 Having your presence during this difficult time meant more than I can say or tell you. The strength and love of family is a true blessing, and having you by my side was a gift from God himself. May our paths cross again soon.

#31 We want to thank you so very much for attending the funeral of [name of lost loved one]! You were missed more than anyone could imagine but thankfully everyone had the chance to say goodbye. Your support has helped us tremendously in this difficult time and will never be forgotten.

#32 Thank you for making the funeral of our beloved [name] so special. Your heartfelt speeches, hugs, tears, laughter and memories are the shining stars that lead us home when we are lost. Thank you for being there!

#33 I cannot thank you enough for coming to the funeral of [name]. Having all my loved ones with me was a truly heartwarming experience. You have no idea what your presence at the service meant to me and my family. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

#34 When we got the news of the loss of our beloved [name of lost loved one], I didn’t think that I could go on. And yet, because you were there with me at the funeral, helping me to support my family and friends through this difficult time, I was able to face it. Thank you for being a friend when I needed one most.

#35 I cannot tell you how much your presence meant to us during those trying days after the death of our dear [name]. Your kind words and empathetic demeanor reminded us that we were not alone. With so many people coming to pay their respects, we felt as if our close-knit community had come together in a loving embrace around us. Thank you for showing us so much kindness.

#36 I am eternally grateful that you were there for me at the funeral. Your encouragement and positive spirit lifted my spirits amidst all of this sadness. I hope that you know how special you are to us, because if not already, then know now that you will always be in our hearts. Thank you for your love during these hard times.

#37 Thank you for supporting my family and me through this difficult time in our lives. Our dear [name] was taken away from us too soon, but knowing we had people who cared helped heal the heartache just a little bit more. We felt blessed by your presence and generosity at this most important moment in our lives, so thank you for being part of it with us.

#38 Thank you for walking this difficult path with us. The days surrounding the funeral were dark and lonely, but your comforting words and warm embrace gave us the strength to keep going. Thank you for being a true friend in our time of sorrow.

#39 You have touched my heart in a way that I cannot describe. Your love and support during this difficult time have been such a blessing to me and my family. You made it possible for me to be able to say goodbye to [name], so thank you from the bottom of my heart for caring enough to come to pay your respects at his/her funeral.

#40 I am glad we got the chance to catch up at the funeral while we paid our last respects together. It was an emotional day, but it was nice to see your familiar face amid the sea of strangers. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to be there for my family and me in our dark hour.

#41 I cannot begin to tell you how much it meant to me that you were there at the funeral of our beloved [name]. Our community has become so small, but knowing that I had people like you on my side brought comfort during these hard times. You are a true friend who will always have a place in our hearts.

#42 You will never know how much it means to us that you came all the way from [place] just to be at this difficult time with us. The overwhelming outpouring of love from those around me made this process easier, yet I am forever grateful that you were part of it with me.

#43 Your words of comfort at the funeral were like a salve for our raw grief. Our hearts are broken, but your presence meant so much to us during this very sad time, and I hope you know how much it means to us that you cared enough to come to pay your respects.

#44 Thank you so much for being there on the day of the funeral. The entire experience was surreal, and I can’t imagine having gone through it all alone. Thank you again for caring so very much about my family and me in our hour of need.

#45 I am just writing this letter to thank you again for coming to the funeral on such short notice. It was wonderful knowing that I had someone to lean on when I was at my lowest. Thank you again for your kindness.

#46 I cannot express enough gratitude that you were there to grieve with me during the funeral of our dear [name]. The entire experience has been draining, but knowing that I had your unwavering love and support by my side gave me strength. Thank you once again for everything.

#47 Thank you for being there for us during this difficult time in our lives. It meant so much to have someone who understood what we are going through during these dark days after the death of our loved one. You are a true friend, and I hope you know how grateful we are to have you as part of our lives.

#48 Reaching out like this means more than words can express. Being able to grieve together during this difficult time was a blessing, and I am glad we had the opportunity to share our grief with one another. Thank you again for being there for my family and me.

#49 You were by my side through all of the pain that no parent ever wants to experience. Even though it has been weeks since [name]’s passing, I still find myself thinking about him/her every day. You helped me get through this darkest period of my life without a moment’s notice, and I hope you know how truly thankful I am for your support.

#50 The death of our son/daughter has taken an unbelievable toll on us both, so it means so much knowing that you are always there if we need to talk. Thank you for always being willing to listen, and thank you again for coming to the funeral.

#51 I know I am not the only one who is suffering right now, but knowing that you are feeling some of what we are going through makes things feel slightly more manageable. Thank you again for your support during this difficult time.

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Design & Print For Important Days Wedding Designs Thank You Cards Funeral Designs Order Of Service Change Of Address Cards Photo gifts Personalised Stationery Births & Children WhatsApp Invitations Wedding Invitations Wedding Save The Dates Wedding Thank You Cards Wedding Table Plans Wedding RSVP Cards Wedding Info Sheets Place Cards Wedding Menus Wedding Order Of Service Couple's Notecards Our digital RSVP service for weddings Baby Thank You Cards Christening Thank You Cards Funeral Thank You Cards First Holy Communion Thank You Cards Funeral Announcements Funeral Order Of Service Our digital RSVP service for funerals Photo Posters Silver Halide Photo Posters Framed Photo Prints Box Framed Prints Canvas Prints Framed Canvases Acrylic Glass Photo Blocks Photo Fridge Magnets SnapSquares Fridge Magnet Personalised Stationery - For Couples Personalised Stationery - For Her Personalised Stationery - For Him Birth Announcement Cards Christening Invitations First Holy Communion Invitations Wedding Invitations for WhatsApp Save The Date for WhatsApp Birth Announcements for WhatsApp Christening Invitations for WhatsApp Funeral Announcements for WhatsApp Our digital RSVP service Funerals & Memorials > 21 Elegant Messages to Write in Your Funeral Thank You Card < Previous article: 20 Charming Quotes to Put on Your Funeral Announcement Card > Next article: An Army of Wedding Photographers: How to Get Great Snaps in From Guests 21 Elegant Messages to Write in Your Funeral Thank You Card Words by Utterly Printable Sending appreciation to well-wishers after a funeral is a nice thing to do, but knowing what to write can be difficult. To make life a little easier, we have put together a list of some great messages for you to write on your funeral thank you cards . Thank you cards for after a funeral What to write in a funeral thank you card: “I am so appreciative of your generosity. Thank you for caring so much about [name] and our family.” “Thank you for the generous contribution. It made a world of difference, and having your support helped us through this difficult time.” “I honestly can’t say thank you enough. Your generous donation has truly helped lift a burden off our shoulders.” “Your words were so kind and very much appreciated in these tough times. You are such a thoughtful friend.” “Thank you for the donation in [name]’s honour. Your thoughtfulness and generosity are much appreciated by the entire family.” “Thank you so much for the generous donation. That was very kind of you, and we are so grateful to have you in our lives.” “Our whole family thanks you for the special funeral flower arrangement that you sent.  It was one of our favourites and helped to brighten our day.” “Thank you for the gorgeous arrangement. They were so thoughtful, and we feel so grateful to have you in our lives.” “Thank you for sending such a beautiful arrangement. Your support shows through in these tough times.” “[Name] would have loved your flowers, they were perfect. Thank you so much for such a beautiful contribution.” Thank you for thinking of our family during this difficult time. Your card was sincerely appreciated.” “Your flowers brought light into a very difficult time. Thank you for your love and support through everything.” “Thank you for your sympathy card and flowers. We are deeply touched by your words of condolence and are thankful that you are there for us at this difficult time.” “It has always been a privilege to have you for a friend. I don’t know how we would have coped with the loss of our beautiful son if we hadn’t had your huge support. Thanks never seems enough at times like this. “Thank you for the stories and memories you shared. They truly helped our family and highlighted what a special person [name] was.” “Just a quick note to show our appreciation for the beautiful flowers you’ve sent. We are grateful for your thoughtfulness while we are going through this difficult time.” “Thank you for your sympathy during our time of loss. Your kind words are of great comfort to us as we try to come to terms with our daughter’s death.” “It was so thoughtful of you to think of me during my time of sadness. Your sympathy card and kind words of condolence are of great comfort to me as I grieve my Father’s death.” “Thank you so much for the condolences. We truly appreciated the warm words of comfort.” “Thank you for sharing in the celebration of [name]’s life. Our whole family appreciates the support.” Designing your acknowledgment cards for after a funeral couldn’t be easier. Just navigate over to our main collection of funeral stationery products and find a design that speaks to you. welcome back Don’t have an account. By logging in or creating an account, you are agreeing to our terms of service and privacy policy Create an account At least: 8 characters long; 1x uppercase; 1x lowercase; 1x number; 1x symbol (e.g. ! " ? $ % & ) Would you like to sign up to our mailing list? (new products, updates, and discount codes !) welcome aboard PASSWORD RESET Oops, happens to the best of us! To reset your password, just enter your email address below. We'll send you a link to create a new one. Rest assured, we'll guide you through every step of the way. And if you run into any bumps, our support team is always here to help. Back to creating amazing designs in no time! Shopping basket. You Must Be Logged In To View Your Basket Filter By Colour: Number of photos:, card size (mm):, orientation:, printed on:. This design has been sent to the favourites section in your account area . Print or download Once you’ve customised your design, you can choose to either download it as a digital copy, or have it professionally printed by us. You can make your decision during the checkout process. PRINT SERVICE: we’ll take your customised design and professionally print it using our state-of-the-art digital printer. Once finished, we’ll pack it all up and courier deliver it to your address. For this option, we have a very smart range of cards and papers for you to choose from. DOWNLOAD SERVICE: for a flat fee from £12.50, you can download a digital copy of your design (PDF). We offer this service for two reasons. Firstly, some customers like to go down the more affordable route of printing their stationery at home, or with a printer they already know and trust. 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" ? $ % ^ & ) Dealing with Grief Online Grief Counseling Loss of Parents Loss of Spouse Loss of Siblings Loss of Children Children and Grief Relationship Grief Alzheimer's Grief Disenfranchised Grief Coping with Suicide Other Types of Grief Stories of Grief Frequently Asked Questions Grief Forum Planning a Funeral Funeral Flowers Funeral Poems Funeral Eulogies Funeral Caskets and Urns Sympathy Gifts Sympathy Baskets Sympathy Cards Words of Sympathy Memorial Jewelry Memorial Trees Pet Loss Grief Pet Memorial Jewelry Pet Sympathy Cards and Gifts Online Counseling Keepsake Store Free Eulogy Templates and Tips for the Perfect Send Off Our printable free eulogy templates will help you to create the perfect funeral speech. Scroll down for the printouts.   You’re asked to speak at a funeral and you have a short period of time to gather your thoughts and prepare your speech. Experiencing nervousness is completely normal, especially while you’re coping with grief and sorrow from the loss. It may feel like an overwhelming task. Which of the many details of their life do you include? How long should it be? What should you say? Writing a eulogy doesn’t have to be scary. Even if you aren’t a writer or public speaker, using the guidelines below, you will be able to write and deliver a meaningful and heartfelt speech.   Preparing to Write a Eulogy - Brainstorming Begin by thinking of things you would be comfortable sharing about this person. The blank page is less intimidating if you start jotting down notes in each of the outline categories below. You won’t use every fact or memory, but will choose key pieces to include in the template. (Scroll down for ideas if the loss is of a child).  Eulogy speech outline Thank everyone for coming. What was your relationship with the person?  What are some key topics you’d like to share about them?  - Early life  Was he/she born elsewhere or somewhere special?  Is there anything interesting about their childhood and how it affected their life?   Education and work, marriage and children Did he/she have a mentionable education or career?  Jot down names of the family. - Significant events and achievements, hobbies and service, beliefs and passions What stands out about them in these categories?  Significant events can be anything specific to them or their family, whether positive or negative. What are some events that made an impact on their life?  Achievements can be more than an award. Think of things that were important to them. Maybe he/she considered their children to be their biggest achievement.  Take a moment to think about what meant a lot to them, what did they value?  Write down several memories that come to mind when you think of this person.  To make a resonating speech bring it full circle at the end. That means, try refer back to something in the closing that you mentioned in the opening.   Lastly, thank everyone for coming to celebrate their life.  “Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you.”  Shannon L. Alder If the eulogy is for a child, some of the above sections may not be appropriate. Avoid anger and despair over the loss of a young life. Instead, focus on positive memories and stories that honour their memory. Consider the following points in your brainstorming: Write your thoughts on how the death of a child affects those around them. What made the child special to you?  Was there a favorite book or poem or song that you can share?  What were the child’s favorite things?  What’s your favorite memory of them?  If you get stuck brainstorming or populating the template, you have options. You can ask family or friends to provide details or recall stories about the deceased. If you have access to photo albums, see what memories start to surface as you flip through. Don’t forget social media accounts, reviewing a person’s profile, feed, and photos can give you insights into their lives.  Review the facts and memories you’ve written down. It’s perfectly okay to insert bits of humour into the eulogy, but avoid anything inappropriate or embarrassing. As you’re reviewing your notes, cross out anything in poor humour or that you don’t want to include. Circle or highlight what you definitely want to keep.   Now, take those ideas and pull it all together, into a template. Example Eulogy Templates for Printing Example Eulogy Template for an Adult     Click here for the downloadable PDF. OPENING  I’d like to begin by thanking everyone for coming to celebrate ________’s (name) life.   ________ (name) was the most ________(adjective) person I’ve ever known and I know many of you would agree. He/She ________ (include a bit of information about the deceased here, perhaps a memory). EARLY LIFE  _________ (name) was born on ________ (birthdate) in _______ (city). He/She was the  ______ (first, second, only) child of ________ (father) and ________ (mother). His/her sisters and brothers are ________, ________, and ________ (add more or less as needed). His/her childhood was ________ (include a bit of information about the deceased here, perhaps a memory or a humorous story about the siblings). EDUCATION AND WORK  _________ (name) went to _______ (name of schools) and graduated with ________ (name of degree or training). He/She spent most of her career at ________ (name of company) as a _______ (name of position). He/She ________ (include a bit of information about the deceased here, perhaps a memory. What was his/her work ethic? Did he/she enjoy the work?). MARRIAGE AND CHILDREN In ______ (year) ________ (name) met _______ (spouse) and they were married in_____ (year). They had ___ (number) children: _______, _______, and _______ (names of children). Last year, ______ (name) and _______ (spouse) celebrated their _____ (number) wedding anniversary. He/She ________ (include additional information about the family, perhaps a funny or sweet memory). SIGNIFICANT EVENTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS In ______ (year), ______ (name) received the award of ______ (award). This award was meaningful to him/her because ______ (reason). He/She ________ (include additional information available, if it’s significant). HOBBIES AND SERVICE / BELIEFS AND PASSIONS ______ (name) was active in the ________ (church, community, volunteer, etc). He/She spent many hours doing _______ (activity) and was known for ________ (descriptor). ______ (name) was passionate about ______ (passion). He/She ________ (include additional comments or memories about their extra-curricular activities). My favorite memory of ______ (name) is that time when ______ (memory). (try to tie this memory back to their character – how the deceased was as a person). The world is a sadder place without ______ (name) in our lives. But ______ (name) touched each and every one of us and has left us with memories we will cherish forever. Thank you. Eulogy Template for a Child    Click here for the downloadable PDF. I’d like to begin by thanking everyone for coming to celebrate ________’s (name) life.   ________ (name) was the most ________(adjective) child I’ve ever known. He/She ________ (include a bit of information about the child here, perhaps a memory). ______ (first, second, only) child of ________ (father) and ________ (mother). His/her sisters and brothers are ________, ________, and ________ (add more or less as needed). His/her childhood was ________ (include a bit of information about the child here, perhaps a memory or a humorous story about the siblings). MEMORIES AND STORIES My favorite memory of ______ (name) is that time when ______ (memory). (Use this section to share the memories and stories about the child. Share their favorite things, their relationships with friends and family, what made them laugh. CLOSING (an appropriate poem, perhaps the child’s favorite) “Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they’re happy.” - Eskimo Proverb Tips on Speaking the Eulogy Read the eulogy out loud several times and if you trip on any words, consider editing to make it easier to read next time.  Practice several times each day leading up to the event, it will prepare you for the tougher parts of the eulogy. Practice in front of the mirror. Practice in front of family or friends. Practice while standing up, as if you were at the service. Practice looking at the audience and referring to your note cards.  Time yourself to ensure you are around your target: no more than 5-10 minutes.  Your speech doesn’t have to be memorized, but the more you practice the less you’ll need to read and the more natural you will sound. You may feel comfortable switching to notecards with bullet points or you may prefer to keep to the script. Do what feels best.    You may fear being overly emotional or breaking down. Showing your emotion is perfectly normal. Focusing on the words on the page will help you maintain your composure. No matter how you choose to prepare, the most important thing is to give the best speech you can give; a speech from the heart.    Related Pages:  Funeral Speech Examples for Mother, Father, Friends and More Grief and Sympathy Home Funeral Speeches and Eulogies Free Eulogy Templates For Remembrance:  Sales from our pages result in a small commission to us which helps us to continue our work supporting the grieving.   Memorial Jewelry to Honour a Loved One Check out our lovely range of memorial jewelry for any lost loved one.  Pendants, necklaces, rings or bracelets, we have them all in all kinds of styles.  Choose for yourself or buy as a sympathy gift.  Click here to see our selection Create an Online Memorial Website Honour your loved one with their own memorial website.  Share photos, videos, memories and more with your family and friends in a permanent online website.  Free for basic plan with no ads.  Find out more here.  Find us here: Sales made via this site will result in a small commission to us which enables us to continue our work helping those who are grieving. 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Try gentle therapy using relaxing hypnotherapy tracks in the privacy of your own home.   Click here to find out more.   Copyright Elizabeth Postl e RN, HV, FWT  and Lesley Postle - GriefandSympathy.com 2012-2024 Any information provided on this website is general in nature and is not applicable to any specific person.   For specific advice, please consult a medical practitioner or qualified psychologist or counselor.  SiteMap      About Us     Contact Us Affiliate Disclosure    Privacy Policy Powered by Solo Build It Premium Eulogy Writing Service Eulogy Guide Eulogy For a Husband Example Eulogy For a Wife Example Eulogy For a Mum Example Eulogy For a Dad Example Eulogy For a Grandfather Example Eulogy For a Friend Example Eulogy For a Brother Example Eulogy For a Sister Example Eulogy For a Son Example Eulogy For a Daughter Example Eulogy For a Work Colleague Example Eulogy For a Aunt Example Eulogy For a Uncle Example Eulogy For a Boyfriend Example Eulogy For a Girlfriend Example Cremation Services in USA Cremation Services in UK Professional Eulogy Writing Eulogy writing guide, funeral speeches for a work colleague, tribute speech to dad from daughter, funeral speech writing advice, thank you speech after funeral mass. February 24, 2024 Funerals are a heartrending time when we gather to say farewell to a beloved family member or friend. However, it is also an opportunity to celebrate the life of the deceased, share cherished memories, and extend our support to others who feel the pain of loss. An essential aspect of funeral etiquette is expressing gratitude to those who attended the mass, helped with the arrangements or offered their support during the difficult time. 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 1. Preparation 2. the opening statement, 3. expressing gratitude, 4. thanking specific individuals, 5. the conclusion. In this article, we will guide you through the process of crafting a thoughtful, engaging and heartfelt thank you speech after a funeral mass. Before you start writing your thank you speech, first take a moment to collect your thoughts and jot down the key points you would like to include, such as: - Acknowledging the presence and emotional support of the guests who have attended the funeral mass. - Expressing gratitude to the people who helped with funeral arrangements. - Thanking specific individuals for their unique contributions, such as reading eulogies, providing refreshments or giving emotional support. - Acknowledging the meaningful impact of the deceased on the lives of others. 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. It is essential to begin your speech with a warm and heartfelt opening that captures the attention of your audience. By doing so, you set the tone for your speech and convey the depth of your appreciation. Here are some examples of opening statements: - "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for being here to honour the life and memory of [name of the deceased]. Your presence and support mean more to our family than words can express." - "On behalf of my family, I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to each and every one of you for joining us today as we celebrate the life and legacy of our dear [name of the deceased]." - "As we come together to say our goodbyes and pay tribute to [name of deceased], I would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude for your love, support and companionship." Your audience shared your grief and offered their support during the funeral mass, and it is essential to acknowledge and thank them for their comforting presence. While addressing the attendees, be sure to express your heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for their assistance, encouragement and empathy. You might say: - "I am truly grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received during these challenging times. Your kind words, bright smiles, and warm hugs have provided solace and peace." - "Your presence today has brought us great comfort, and we deeply appreciate the time and effort you took to be with us. Thank you for your shared memories and condolences." Take the time to personally acknowledge and thank individuals who have made special contributions or offered exceptional support during the bereavement process. By doing so, you demonstrate your gratitude and make them feel valued, comforted and appreciated. For example: - "I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to [name], who went above and beyond in helping us with the funeral arrangements, providing invaluable guidance and ensuring everything was perfect during this difficult time." - "Thank you to [name] for the beautiful eulogy that captured the essence of [name of the deceased]'s life and personality. You have honoured their memory in the most extraordinary way." Conclude your speech by summarising your sentiments and expressing your appreciation once again. Your closing statement should leave your audience with a sense of warmth and gratitude for their presence and support. Sample conclusion: - "May we continue to find comfort in our shared memories of [name of the deceased] and support each other through this difficult time. Once again, thank you all for being here and sharing in the celebration of our beloved [name of the deceased]'s life." Having an engaging and heartfelt thank you speech after a funeral mass is a vital part of the experience, allowing you to express your gratitude and honour your loved one. We understand the emotional toll this process takes, and that's why our Eulogy Assistant is here to help guide you through crafting the perfect thank you speech. Using AI-powered software, our Eulogy Assistant can create a personalised, compelling speech that leaves your audience touched and grateful for your heartfelt sentiments. Looking For Examples? Here Are Some of The Best Eulogies Login / Register Eulogy Examples: How to Write a Eulogy for a Loved One By Bernie Flowers How do you distill a lifetime of memories and experiences into a 15-minute eulogy? It’s an honor to hold the responsibility of eulogizing your loved one, but it can feel like a challenge to fit everything you want to say in one speech. Instead of making the funeral attendees feel like they are reading an encyclopedia from cover-to-cover, look for ways to highlight the rich life experiences that matter most. A eulogy should be a sampling of the best the person had to offer including accomplishments, personality traits, and memorable stories. When it comes to eulogy writing, you can search online for ideas and examples. But the most important thing you need to keep in mind: quality over quantity . All this being said, we would advise using our professional Eulogy Template to guide you through your writing, you can find it here - Eulogy Template What is a Eulogy? Giving a eulogy means that you are sharing a remembrance speech with the purpose of paying tribute to a loved one. This speech is given at the funeral or memorial service by a family member or close friend. A good eulogy highlights the lasting impact of the person on their family and community. Through your speech, you’ll have an opportunity to share their unique qualities, as well as the ripple effect of positivity and change they created in the world around them. How can you best honor  your loved one? A eulogy can be a part of your healing, and a beautiful way to reflect on the details that were most special about them. Eulogy Examples One of the simplest ways to write a eulogy is to review a eulogy speech example that matches your own preferred tone and style. What makes a eulogy unique is the unique details you’ll share about the person themselves, which is why it’s essential to customize your eulogy to honor and celebrate the personality of your loved one. You may want to start with our primer on how to write a eulogy . Then, use the following outline and eulogy examples to create a strong speech  that communicates the message you want to share about the person who meant so much to you. Eulogy Sample Outline Using a eulogy sample outline is a proven way to create a great speech. Remember those Mad Libs books from your childhood? This process is similar: follow the outline and plug in the personal details applicable to your loved one.  These eulogy samples help you overcome writer's block and keep you focused on the details that matter most. Aim to cap the eulogy at a maximum of 10 minutes total. The simplest eulogy outline can be broken down into three parts, so you’ll need to consider how much time to spend on each section: Set the tone by beginning with a poem, quote, or scripture that was meaningful to the person. Names they were known by, including nicknames and maiden names. Cause of death (an optional detail). A brief insight into your relationship with the individual. Accomplishments Major life events Stories or fond memories How the person affected others Childhood years Travel adventures Marriage and children Any other thoughts you want to share about the person A final take away from your theme How you want family and friends to remember the individual What the person would want you to remember them for Quote, scripture, or song lyric Thank attendees for participating Eulogy Examples for a Friend It can be helpful to write this eulogy as if you were talking to a friend. Common talking points might include: Common activities enjoyed together What you like most about the person Personality traits or phrases they often use How you would describe the person What will you remember them by? Here is a eulogy example for a friend: I can’t imagine how empty it will feel to spend time on the basketball court without Jim by my side. Our relationship was built with a basketball in hand, and evolved to share many family gatherings and other activities together over the years. With his passing, Jim is leaving behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and generosity. Jim shared good humor and a big smile with everyone he met. Even though people often cursed at his practical jokes, he was an integral part of creating a solid foundation of friendship in our group. When times were difficult, he could always put a smile on my face. He held his head high until the end, showing what it looks like to finish strong. Eulogy Examples for Your Father Writing a eulogy for your dad may be really tough. How do you memorialize your hero amid grief and emotion? We hope these tips and the example below will help you in your process.  Share childhood experiences when spending time with dad Talk about his best qualities Capture his essence through “dad jokes” and the things that made you laugh Tell about the things you will miss most about him Describe his role in your upbringing Here is a eulogy example for your father: My dad was my hero. He could make every person feel like they were the most important person in the world. Growing up, I knew that I could always ask Dad for help – and he would be willing to drop anything to lend a hand. He was a rock of stability in my childhood and a source of strength for our whole family. My father was a man who infused fun into the most mundane tasks. I remember how he would turn our bedtime routine into an adventure that included highlights from our favorite storybooks. He was a kind and thoughtful person. Every night at the dinner table, he encouraged us to talk about the things we were grateful for, and always had yummy treats for us kids hidden in the back of the pantry. I will miss you, Dad, and I’ll always hold onto the amazing memories we shared together. Eulogy Examples for Your Mother How can you ever do justice to a eulogy for your beloved mother – the woman who was always there with love and guidance through the ups and downs, the celebrations and challenging moments of your life? Here are a few tips for writing a eulogy for your mother: Describe the way she showed her love for you Celebrate the small ways she turned your house into a home Highlight the impact she made throughout the community Explain the smells, sounds, and feelings you felt when arriving home Share stories from childhood and adulthood that reflect her character Here is a eulogy example for your mother: Today we are honoring, celebrating, and remembering {mom’s full name]. She was a woman of grace and courage, with a stubborn streak that showed up when she set her mind to something, like going back to school to become a nurse at age 40.  My mother was truly my best friend and I am humbled by the challenge of describing the fullness of her beauty and caring here today. I don't know how she did it, but Mom always found the perfect balance between work and home. Even though she worked 40 – 50 hours a week to support us, she prioritized family dinner. That time was sacred to our family. Her love and kindness were infused in everything she did, whether she was baking cookies for a bake sale to help the hospital or sewing our Halloween costumes by hand year after year.  She had a magical way of bringing joy every time she walked into the room. No one who met her could forget her smile. And I’ll never forget the advice and the lessons she taught me. Her wisdom will forever guide the decisions I make through the rest of my life. I love you, Mom. Eulogy Examples for Your Grandmother How do you share the details about the love you felt through your relationship with a grandmother? Follow these tips to write a good eulogy for this important woman: Talk about the fun traditions she brought for your favorite holiday What was she known for in the community? How did her influence touch your life? What are the daily moments that will remind you of her? Share funny stories that showcase her quirks or sense of humor Here is a eulogy example for your grandmother: My grandmother paid attention to the details – it was the little things that added the finishing touch to every experience. Whether she was setting out the treat jar on the kitchen table or clinking the glass while drinking her iced tea, she always prioritized food and drinks. Since she loved to shop, grandma would often take us to the mall when we were visiting for the weekend. We would have fashion shows in the dressing rooms and often come home with bright, frilly dresses that were perfect for twirling. When grandpa was away for the war, grandma was an example of always getting back up again when things get hard. She never complained; just worked hard and supported her family at all times. Despite the personal challenges, she always looked outside of herself – which is why she will be remembered as a beacon of light in this community. Eulogy Examples for Your Grandfather What are the details that make your grandfather larger than life? Here are a few ideas to help when writing a eulogy for this great man: Explain the qualities that best describe his personality Tell about the details that made him stand out from other grandparents What hobbies or passions did he share with the family? How will the neighborhood or community remember him? Talk about stories that were life-changing moments for him Here is a eulogy example for your grandfather: Even though my grandfather didn’t like to be the center of attention, he had an undeniable impact on the community. If he was here with us today, he wouldn’t want us to share grief and sorrow. Instead, his desire would be to focus on the happy memories and joyful experiences shared over the years. Grandpa was a man who set a lasting impression on everyone he met. His deep laugh and kind eyes warmed the room and brought life into the most boring daily activities. Grandpa loved spending time with his grandkids because he said that it made him feel young at heart. He was a great teacher and a dependable friend. His advice and guidance will continue to carry me through the joys and challenges that life has to offer. Eulogy Examples for Your Brother Siblings share a special bond, giving you deep insights to share about your brother. Follow these tips for writing a good eulogy: What was it like growing up in the same house together? Describe the way your relationship changed in adulthood Share funny stories about sibling rivalries Explain the lasting impact he left on you and the family List his favorite hobbies and food Here is a eulogy example for your brother: While it’s tragic to think about Kyle leaving us too soon, he left behind a lifetime of memories that we can celebrate. Kyle was always ready for a fun day with friends – he would have been the one showing up today with the perfect playlist for the event. Even though my brother was a few years older than me, he always included me in the adventures with his friends. I never felt like the little brother he was dragging along. He made me feel special and included in the group, and helped me build confidence along the way. Kyle was my best friend and I can’t imagine what life is going to be like without him sending me funny cat memes every night. But I know that his memory will live on when I eat his favorite pizza or hear his favorite band on the radio. Eulogy Examples for Your Sister If you’ve lost a sibling, we are truly sorry, Writing a eulogy for your sister can be a way to honor her through your memories of your childhood and growing up with her, as well as the milestones of her life. A few ideas for this eulogy include: Share her notable life accomplishments Retell your favorite stories from growing up together Highlight the kind of person she was Summarize your relationship in a few short words Talk about what she meant to you and how she influenced your life Here is a eulogy example for your sister: My sister, Kim, might have been a little shy at the first introduction. But once she warmed up to a friendship, she always had plenty to say every time she talked. Kim loved to share stories from her time volunteering at the children’s hospital and she had a beautiful gift of making everyone feel like the most important person in the world. We were only a year apart, which meant that I was the younger sister who was often stealing her clothes or listening in on her conversations with her boyfriend. Even though I was the pesky sibling who cracked jokes about her unique style, she was everything I wanted to be when I grew up. She was independent, strong, and beautiful. She was a free spirit who wasn’t afraid to act boldly, like moving to Paris after college and starting her own business. She was my partner in crime, and I could always tell her everything. She will never be replaced. . My dear sister, I love you and I will be forever grateful for every moment we spent together. Short Eulogy Examples Short and sweet is a good rule of thumb to follow when writing a eulogy. Consider these important talking points if you want to write a short eulogy: Highlight the person’s passions or interests What were the most memorable times you spent together? Sum up the person’s character using a story or memory Express your gratitude for the impact the person had on your life Talk about their influence on family and community Here is a short eulogy example: The years I spent with Kathy in my life were filled with excitement and adventure. She showed up for life in the biggest way possible. From the moment she shared her cookie with me on the first day of kindergarten, I knew we would be best friends. She spent many years working as a teacher, and her heart was big enough to offer individual attention to every child that walked into her classroom. Kathy made a difference in the lives of hundreds of children over the years, and her kindness and positivity will leave an unwavering legacy in this community. Funny Eulogy Examples Sometimes a bit of humor is the perfect way to lighten the mood and showcase the personality of your loved one. Consider these tips if you want to add a few jokes into the eulogy: Point out the person’s comedic qualities Be specific about sharing their jokes or pranks Look for ways to communicate what the person would say if they wrote the speech Find the right balance of humor to share laughs without being irreverent Share a funny poem or a quote from the person’s favorite movie Here is a funny eulogy example: Anyone who met Josh quickly learned that there are always laughs to be shared. It was impossible to spend time with him without enjoying a gut-busting laugh at some point in the conversation. Josh was known as the class clown, and his jokes were quick-witted and hilarious. Who could forget the time Josh showed up to the family reunion wearing that ridiculous blow-up dinosaur costume? He chased the kids around the park until everyone laughed until they were crying. Many funny memories came out of our family camping trips. He couldn’t sit down to enjoy a peaceful campfire. Instead, the s’more making always seemed to turn into a marshmallow fight – with white puffs flying through the air when you least expected it. Josh kept a smile on my face through the ups and downs of life, and I will keep on smiling in his honor. Personalizing the Eulogy As you read through these funeral eulogy examples, the most important thing to remember is that there isn’t a right or wrong way to write a eulogy. Instead, consider the best way to share the person in the way they would want others to remember them. It’s your chance to verbalize your love and honor the memories of your loved one. Our Farewelling Editors are constantly reviewing and curating resources to help you with your planning.  We may receive a small commission from any purchases made through the links. We're just over here living our best life. Subscribe for free. To our mailing list, podcast, and blog! Created with Lunacy PREVIOUS: Memorial Website NEXT: Obituary Examples: Writing the Perfect Tribute Created with Lunacy You might also like. Understanding the Grieving Process After a Suicide The Role of Funeral Homes in Modern Society Grief and Resilience: Finding Strength After Loss Planning a Memorial Service on a Boat or Ship 257 IMAGES FREE 35+ Speech Examples in PDF 33+ Best Funeral Thank You Cards How to Write a Funeral Thank You Speech: Tips & Examples FREE 7+ Funeral Thank You Note Templates in PSD Funeral Home Meaning In English FREE 35+ Speech Examples in PDF VIDEO Prakash Funeral I Thank You for Watching the Funeral Thank You for Watching! The Funeral of EggyRomeo Funeral Thank You Cards Jim Grace Memorial Video Lukas Graham COMMENTS How to Write a Funeral Thank You Speech: Tips & Examples 8 Tips for Giving a Funeral Thank You Speech. It's worth noting that the nature of a funeral thank you speech will vary depending on your exact goals and who you want to thank. That said, these tips will help you feel more confident in your eulogy. Remember them if you ever want to use a funeral speech as an opportunity to express gratitude. Funeral Thank You Speech From Family An Example Funeral Thank You Speech From Family "Dear friends and family, I stand before you today with a heavy heart, yet a heart filled with immense gratitude. Your presence here, as we honour [deceased's name], brings solace to our grieving family. Your support during this time of loss has meant more to us than words can adequately express. Thank You Speech At Funeral Thank You Speech At Funeral Example 1. Good afternoon everyone, Today, as we gather here to remember and celebrate the life of (Name), I find myself amidst a sea of people who have loved, respected, and admired (him/her) throughout (his/her) journey. I stand before you, not just as a family member, but as a representation of the immense ... Thank You Speech Funeral Sharing these stories not only shows gratitude, but it also creates a bond of warmth and solidarity among the attendees. 4. Speak from the heart: While it might be tempting to stick to a written script, offering a genuine and heartfelt message is vital when delivering a thank you speech at a funeral. Speak with sincerity and let everyone know ... 6 Memorial Service Speech Examples Thank you for the privilege of knowing and loving you. — END OF SPEECH — Commentary: This lengthy speech provides an in-depth, highly personal look at the individual's entire life journey, from their early years and formative experiences to their academic and professional achievements, philanthropic work, family life, later years, and ... What to Say in Funeral Thank You Notes: Examples, Tips, and Etiquette Recognize what the person or family did. "Thank you for serving as a pallbearer at [deceased's first name]'s funeral." Note how this action made you feel and include a personal sentiment. "Your help throughout the service was very much appreciated. I know that [deceased's first name] would be grateful for your kindness. How to Deliver a Heartfelt Funeral Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide 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 ... 75 Examples of Funeral Thank You Messages 24. You have eased my pain, although my tears still flow often and freely, I know I can turn to you. I know I have support and solidarity. In my sorrow, and although it is still ever-present, I am content to know I have people like you to turn to. Thank you for your support during my time of loss. 25. Eulogy examples Click the headline links below to read the eulogies or funeral speeches shared by visitors to this page... Eulogy for my Grandmother. Thank you all for coming. This turnout is testament to the magnificent woman my grandmother was. My name is XXXXX and I am the youngest grandchild of XXXXX. …. Forever in my thoughts. 85 Eulogy Examples Eulogies are pieces of writing or funeral speeches that are typically shared at a funeral or gathering for someone who has passed away. The speeches often contain a description of the person who passed away, the kind of person they were and personal memories that the person delivering the eulogy finds meaningful to share. ... Example #6. Thank ... Funeral Speech Examples for a Heartfelt Eulogy Perhaps mention some people who will be at the funeral. Mention a couple of funny stories if appropriate. Keep it real and don't be afraid of mentioning their less good points - you don't have to put them on a pedestal. Thank people for coming to the funeral and for their support. Funeral Thank You Notes: 21 Wording Examples Thank You for Helping with the Funeral Notes. Thank those who help plan or arrange the funeral with these message examples. Dear _____, Thank you for all your help with planning the funeral. We couldn't have done it without you. Sincerely, _____ ***** Dear _____, When you volunteered to help it took such a burden off my shoulders. How To Do Thank You Funeral Speech A Thank You funeral speech not only reflects the deep respect and gratitude one harbors for the departed but also carries the potential to bring solace, perhaps a sense of closure to the mourning attendees, by sharing heartfelt thanks and cherished memories. ... Example 3: A Formal and Respectful Thank You Funeral Speech. Ladies and gentlemen ... 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 Write a Funeral Speech With Eulogy Examples We've put together a few funeral-speech examples that you could gain inspiration from when writing your own. ... "To my dear friend: Thank you for sharing your joy, support, and for showing us how to live with purpose. We'll honor you by embracing life with your enthusiasm. As you'd say, quoting your beloved David Bowie, 'I don't know where ... 51 Thank You Message After Funeral Samples (Heartfelt & Inspiring) #32 Thank you for making the funeral of our beloved [name] so special. Your heartfelt speeches, hugs, tears, laughter and memories are the shining stars that lead us home when we are lost. Thank you for being there! #33 I cannot thank you enough for coming to the funeral of [name]. Having all my loved ones with me was a truly heartwarming ... Eulogy Speech Guide with Eulogy Examples, Sample Eulogies, Tips for Learn to write and deliver a heartfelt eulogy using these unique funeral speech samples and eulogy examples, funeral readings, funeral thank you notes, best poems for funerals, funeral etiquette, funeral obituaries, funeral notices, memorials and tributes... We also included numerous samples of famous eulogies and famous last words collections... Easy Funeral Thank You Notes Some Sample Funeral Thank You Notes. Dear John and Susie. Thank you for coming to Dave's funeral and for the beautiful flowers you sent me. Dave always felt our friendship over the years was special. I have many happy memories of our shared outings together I hope to see you soon. Your friend, Mary. Funeral Short Tribute Speech Examples Thank you. Example Short Tribute Funeral Speech 2: A Legacy of Love and Strength. Dear family, friends, and all those gathered here, Today, we come together to remember and celebrate the life of [Deceased's Name], a remarkable person whose presence was a blessing to us all. 21 Elegant Messages to Write in Your Funeral Thank You Card You are such a thoughtful friend.". "Thank you for the donation in [name]'s honour. Your thoughtfulness and generosity are much appreciated by the entire family.". "Thank you so much for the generous donation. That was very kind of you, and we are so grateful to have you in our lives.". "Your words were so kind and very much ... Free Eulogy Templates for a Memorable Funeral Speech Free Eulogy Templates and Tips for the Perfect Send Off. Our printable free eulogy templates will help you to create the perfect funeral speech. Scroll down for the printouts. You're asked to speak at a funeral and you have a short period of time to gather your thoughts and prepare your speech. Experiencing nervousness is completely normal ... Thank You Speech After Funeral Mass 1. Preparation. Before you start writing your thank you speech, first take a moment to collect your thoughts and jot down the key points you would like to include, such as: - Acknowledging the presence and emotional support of the guests who have attended the funeral mass. - Expressing gratitude to the people who helped with funeral arrangements. Eulogy Examples: How to Write a Eulogy for a Loved One Summarize your relationship in a few short words. Talk about what she meant to you and how she influenced your life. Here is a eulogy example for your sister: My sister, Kim, might have been a little shy at the first introduction. But once she warmed up to a friendship, she always had plenty to say every time she talked. How to Write a Eulogy (with Examples) However, there are dos and don'ts to be mindful of as you draft the eulogy. Do be aware of your time. A well-paced eulogy speech takes about five to ten minutes and is around 700 to 3,000 words. Although there isn't a hard time limit for a eulogy, being concise keeps listeners' attention and provides time for other parts of the service. assignment essay homework paper phd report resume review thesis