“Good night sweet prince; and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!”
- William Shakespeare
These lovely words from Shakespeare’s immortal play “Hamlet” are one of the most famous eulogies ever written. Even though we may not possess the literary skills of a William Shakespeare, it is still possible to create a memorable eulogy to memorialize a departed friend or loved one.
No one expects perfection in the delivery of a eulogy but rather a heartfelt tribute to a life well lived. It will help you with your eulogy to remember that your words will help to start the healing process.
An excellent booklet Goodnight, Sweet Prince - You Can Give a Eulogy written by William Schmidt and published by the National Funeral Directors Association contains many excellent suggestions that can help you deliver a memorable eulogy.
Here are some of Mr. Schmidt’s suggestions:
1. Gather information about the person. Remember that a eulogy is supposed to summarize a life in a positive way. Talk to friends. Identify two or three positive traits. Write down how you feel and, if possible, give a reason for your feelings.
2. Organize your information. Check with other speakers to avoid duplication. Make note of one or two short stories about the deceased. You might want to mention a person’s hobby, or what inspired them to enter a certain profession. Be positive and write like you speak.
3. Before delivering the eulogy, be sure to thank your introducer and those who have come to the funeral. Mention who you are and your relationship to the departed. Not everyone at the funeral may know you, or why you are delivering a eulogy.
4. Be brief - five to ten minutes should be enough time. Take a deep breath; use simple words and slow down when you are speaking.
From my own experience, I find that going to the library and looking through Bartlett’s Book of Quotations can provide valuable inspiration for writing a memorable eulogy.
Your eulogy will be perfect because it has come from your heart.
Reprinted by permission of the New York State Funeral Directors Association, Inc. For more information go to www.nysfda.org.
