Eulogy Checklist

A eulogy is a time to remember the individual whose life you are honouring. Here are some of the questions to consider when writing and delivering a eulogy:

• Who is the audience? Is it a private family or a public funeral? How will they feel? What do they want to hear? How long should you plan to speak?
• How would the person like to be remembered? Ask if any specific requests were written down by the deceased in a will or other document.
• What made the person special? Think about hobbies, interest, likes and dislikes.
• When were they happiest?
• Who was close to them?
• What did they look for in their friends? What did other people really like about them?
• What are their life's achievements?
• List three qualities of the deceased and illustrate with examples or short anecdotes.
• List three good anecdotes that illustrate some of the best qualities or finest moments of the deceased.
• Who can help check all facts?
• Do you feel comfortable delivering the eulogy? Do you want someone to deliver it on your behalf?
• Is anyone else planning on speaking? Do you need to avoid saying the same thing twice?
• Do you have a back-up plan if you are unable to deliver the eulogy on the day?