Writing a Eulogy

A eulogy is normally read at the funeral of a deceased person.  It normally starts with the chronological events of the deceased persons life, and can include an interesting personal outline, with some comments on general character, achievements, travel, hobbies, social interests, clubs, associations, names of close friends, amusing anecdotes, surviving family members and thanks.  A eulogy can also be an excellent tool to reflect on your life, by writing your own, and decide what is missing, then write your bucket list.

An example outline, for you to fill in the blanks or (…), add or delete as required.  This is offered, just as a possible starting point.

Eulogy of (Full Name)………………………………

(Name) was born (date in full) in (town), (state), (country if overseas).  (Place in the family – eldest, middle, youngest) child of (father) (employed) from (state, country if overseas), and (mother) (employed) from (state, country if overseas).

(Interesting facts about the family home) where (name) grewup with (name of brothers and sisters in order and if deceased or where they reside now). (He/She) was a student at (name) State School and later at (name) High.  After completing school, (name) worked at (name of business) for (number) years, then was offered a position at (business name) where (he/she) the love of (his/her) live (name of partner).

Married in (date) at (place), they enjoyed (interested facts – travel, food, sport, pets, children, etc) together.

(Name) is described by the family as (happy, cheerful, sense of humour, serious, warm-hearted, intelligent, loving, caring, independent, determined, stubborn, said it as it is, supportive, intorvert, extorvert, “people person’, outspoken, popular, quiet, a rock, calming influence etc)

(Statements by children, friends or other family members) said (he/she) was ……..

(Briefly touch on hobbies, interests, travel etc.) (Name) supported the local (sport, events, church etc) and loved to relax with (names, hobbies, travel etc.) and spent many happy hours (names, hobbies, etc)   (Name) had many/few friends and each one said he/she was (the life of the partry, compassionate, great work colleague that became a best friend etc)

It was with great sadness that (name) died on (date) at (place), (so unexpectedly, suddenly, from (disease), etc) and will always be remember for (his/her) (laughter, wit, kindness, love for a party etc)

(Name) is survived by partner/spouse/wife/husband (name), children (names), pets (names), grandchildren (names) etc.

(Name) is further survived by (sisters, brothers, family etc)

The family wishes to express their appreciation for all whom have attended this (celebration of life, funeral, memorial), with heartfelt thanks to the staff of the (name) (hospital/funeral home/ ambulance as required) for their immediate response and care.  Special thanks to neighbours, the community, friends and family for their concern and support during these very difficult days.

*If this was just an exercise in reflecting on your life, now write a list of all things you wish to do now – i.e. Your bucket list.  What have you always wanted to do, and have not achieved yet? travel? Study? Language? Etc. etc.