Giving a eulogy or speaking at a family member or friend’s funeral can be emotionally daunting, especially for people who fear public speaking. If you’re worried about what to say, our guide below offers tips for getting through a funeral speech.
#1: Prepare Your Speech Well in Advance
Preparation is key for delivering an emotional speech. Take time to reflect on what you want to say, and organize your thoughts with a clear outline, including an opening, body, and conclusion. Write your speech down, even if you don’t plan to read from it, as this helps you structure your ideas and prevents rambling.
#2: Keep It Personal
Eulogies are most meaningful when they reflect personal connections to the deceased. Share specific stories and anecdotes highlighting their unique qualities, such as humor, kindness, or quirks.
For example, instead of saying, “They were generous,” give a specific example of their generosity. You might also consider questions such as, “What were their defining qualities?” or “What memory captures their essence?”. These personal touches create a vivid, heartfelt picture of who they truly were and their impact on others.
#3: Practice, but Don't Overthink It
Another tip for getting through a funeral speech is not to overthink it. Practice helps, but you don’t want to sound like a robot when speaking. Consider practicing in front of a trusted friend or family member for feedback and support. Focus on speaking from the heart rather than aiming for perfection.
#4: Keep It Brief
A common mistake to avoid when writing a eulogy is making it too long. While you may want to recount every meaningful moment with and thought about the deceased, brevity is your friend. Ideally, a funeral speech lasts 5 to 10 minutes, enough to deliver meaningful content without losing the audience's attention.
#5: End on a Positive Note
The conclusion of your speech is a chance to leave the audience with a meaningful takeaway. While it’s natural for grief to permeate this moment, consider ending on a hopeful or uplifting note. Acknowledge the pain of loss, but remind everyone of the legacy your loved one has left behind.
Perhaps you can share an inspiring lesson you’ve learned from them or reflect on how their memory will continue to shape those they’ve left behind. A message of inspiration and positivity gives a satisfying, meaningful ending to a funeral speech.
Delivering a funeral speech can be challenging, but it offers a meaningful way to honor a loved one. With careful preparation and a personal touch, you can create a comforting tribute that celebrates their life. If you're unsure where to start, close friends or family members can help you find the right words to express your feelings.
