A eulogy is a speech typically given during a funeral or memorial service that pays tribute to the deceased. On other occasions, a eulogy can be given during a celebration, such as a milestone birthday or a retirement party. Obituaries are brief announcements of the deceased that is placed in the newspaper or a legacy website. Obituaries are typically biographical.

Preparing a eulogy can be both an honor… and for some… a curse! There is usually very little time to prepare and tremendous sadness that the death of a loved one can bring. The challenge to compose a summary of someone’s life in ten minutes is a daunting task for anyone to prepare under these circumstances.

If you wish to be present and support friends and family during this time of need, I am available to interview and ghost-write a eulogy for your loved on in as little as two days (sometimes less time). If you choose to undertake this task by yourself here are some key points to remember:

• It is not about you.
• Brainstorm and outline: If you did not know this person well, reach out and ask family or friends if they have anything to add.
• Keep the eulogy language light, it need not be written in lyrical prose to get your point across.
• Find out how many minutes you are allowed to present the eulogy; time yourself as you practice.
• Type out the eulogy in case you are unable to give it for whatever reason.

Three basic parts to the eulogy:

• The introduction: Who you are and how you are related to the deceased.
• The Body: Stories are the best way to convey a person’s life. Give examples, memories, how did this person influence you, what was your favorite thing about this person, what funny (and socially acceptable) stories can you share, if you were able to tell the deceased something what would it be.
• Conclusion: Wrap it up, be concise with a review of what you just said. Final thoughts. Read a quote or a poem.

Delivery:

Remember to breathe! Speak slowly. Make eye contact. Enunciate your words. Speak up if there is no microphone. Drink water from a bottle when you are nervous, this will help you pause and prevent any unwanted spillage.