Writing a Eulogy
A eulogy is meant to jog other people's memories about
the deceased, and while it is difficult to sum up a life story in a
few words, a couple of typed A4 pages (about ten minutes of reading)
is of suitable length for a funeral service.
A eulogy traditionally opens with a chronological list of important
"milestones" in a person's life such as birth, education, career
changes and choices, marriages, graduations, family events and so
forth.
Despite this, you may opt to open your eulogy with a poem or a
reading that sets a certain tone, followed by a straight chronology
of the person's life events. Similarly, you might choose to open
with a passage of literature or a remark that characterises, or was
loved by that person.
However you choose to open the eulogy, keep in mind that the
words are a starting point for others to open their memories. It is
important, therefore, to include your personal feelings about this
special person. Identify three or four of the person's main
attributes, and speak about whether they tended to make you feel
happy, sad, cranky or even silly. And don't forget to include
anecdotes, if you can. Amusing and comical events can be the most
revealing and memorable mirrors into a person's soul.
Finally, don't forget that other immediate family members may wish
to contribute to a eulogy, even though they may feel that they are
unable to speak at the funeral. It is wise to check with them.
Include their offerings if you can.
Delivering the eulogy
If nobody at the gathering of family and friends
feels capable of delivering the eulogy in public, then it may be
pre-taped and played, or typed and handed to the leader of the
ceremony for delivery.
If you are planning an informal gathering please consult us for some
important points about how to officiate at a funeral.
Symbols, mementos and music
Photographs, symbols or other life-mementos of the
deceased may be displayed at a funeral.
If you choose to display a photograph, keep in mind that it ought to
be a characteristic shot — not necessarily a recent snap but an
image that captures the person's personality. Photo processing
outlets may be able to help you if, for example, you want to include
more than one image in a picture, or if you wish to extract a small
image from a larger one.
A few well chosen items, such as trophies, hats, sporting
implements, or other mementos may also enhance proceedings.
Similarly, a eulogy may be finalised with a chosen piece of music —
a tune that once held special meaning for the deceased, or a melody
that will give special comfort and ease to the grieving family.
Phone Now
At Max Perram's Funeral Service we offer 24 hr service every day of the year and guarantee that when you ring your call will be answered by a staff member, not an answering machine.
02 9602 6175
A Liverpool Family Company Since 1948
After the Funeral
It will take time to adjust to the loss of a loved one. Everybody reacts in different ways. As soon as you feel able, however, you should consider sending thankyou cards or notes to those people who assisted you personally, telephoned, sent flowers, sent letters or cards, or who expressed sympathy in any of a variety of other ways.
