The life of those who passed are placed in the memory of the living.

A eulogy is a tribute given to honour and remember the life of your loved one. 

It is usually delivered by a close family member or friend, and there may be more than one tribute to reflect the many different chapters and relationships in a person’s life.

A eulogy is not about perfection. It is about telling a story from the heart, sharing moments, memories, and qualities that truly reflect who your loved one was.

There is no right or wrong way to write or deliver a eulogy. 

What matters most is that it is sincere and personal.

You may choose to cover all of these areas, or simply select the ones that feel most meaningful:

• Early childhood and upbringing
• School years
• Career or working life
• Family life, including parents, siblings, partner, children, and grandchildren
• Personal qualities and values
• Hobbies and interests
• Club or community involvement
• Special achievements or memorable moments
• Highlights and turning points throughout their life
   

Stories, small details, and everyday moments often bring a eulogy to life just as much as major milestones.

If you’re not sure where to begin, completing the following statements can help paint a vivid picture of someone’s personality, likes, and dislikes. 

This approach often sparks memories, brings warmth and gentle laughter, and may even surprise those listening.

His/Her:

• Nickname
• Favourite food
• Favourite sport
• Favourite holiday destination
• Favourite book
• Favourite song or singer
• Favourite actor
• Favourite saying
• Favourite piece of advice
• Favourite colour
• Favourite pastime
• Favourite TV show or movie
• Favourite pet
• Favourite joke
   

To keep things balanced and real, you might also include a few light hearted imperfections, if appropriate:

• Most annoying habit
• Pet aversion
• Greatest fear
• Most embarrassing moment
   

These moments can add authenticity and remind everyone that it’s our quirks that make us who we are.

• Aim for around 5–10 minutes when spoken aloud.
• Write as if you are talking to your loved one, or about them to a friend.
• It’s okay to feel emotional, pauses are natural and completely acceptable.
• Reading from notes is perfectly fine.
• Practising once or twice can help you feel more comfortable on the day.
   

Take a moment. Breathe. 

Perhaps play some of your loved one’s favourite music softly or music that comforts you. 

As you begin to write, allow the memories to guide you. 

Let them shine through every word.

As you sit with your thoughts for a while, we hope those memories bring warmth, comfort, and even a smile, as you tell the story of someone deeply loved.