Have you been charged with writing a eulogy for a loved one but don't know where to start? Here are a few tips to help and contact Forrest Funeral Services who can help guide you and your family through this process and ways to make the saying farewell to your loved one a special and meaningful time.
Capturing the essence of a person’s life in just a few minutes is no easy task. Yet through shared stories and memories, we can honour them in ways that are heartfelt, personal, and creative.
A truly memorable eulogy is more than a timeline of events—it’s a tribute to the person behind the milestones. While it’s appropriate to include key dates such as birth, marriage, major moves, or career changes, the spirit of the eulogy comes through stories, character, and reflection.
Consider beginning with a meaningful reading, poem, or quote—especially if it reflects the individual’s beliefs or literary tastes. This can help set the tone more thoughtfully than simply starting with a date of birth.
In some cases, offering a glimpse into the time or place where the person grew up adds colour and context. For instance, if they were born on Auckland’s North Shore in the 1920s, a short description of life back then can paint a vivid picture.
Your own personal stories and reflections are vital. Share what this person meant to you, tell anecdotes, even humorous or slightly irreverent ones—these often bring comfort and laughter, and remind us of the joy they brought into our lives.
If family members are too emotional to speak, check whether they’d like you to share a few words on their behalf. A brief quote, story, or thought can add rich layers to the tribute.
Here’s a general guide to what you might include:
How long should it be?
A eulogy of around 10 minutes—or two typed A4 pages—is typically ideal.
Visual Tributes
Photographs and mementoes can speak volumes. Old or new, images that capture personality or special moments are deeply meaningful. Enlarged or enhanced photos can be arranged easily and affordably.
Symbolic items such as a favourite hat, a piece of art, a trophy, or even a garden tool can help tell their story. Many families choose to place these near the casket before or after the eulogy.
Closing with Music
A well-chosen piece of music can offer a moment of reflection—either a personal favourite of the deceased or something that provides comfort to those gathered.
Information adapted courtesy of Forrest Funeral Homes, 39 Riverside Road, Orewa – Ph 09 426 7950, www.forrests.co.nz
