How to Write a Eulogy for a Friend

If you have been asked to write and deliver a eulogy for a friend, it is likely that you were quite close to the deceased. You probably have plenty of stories from which you can draw and the eulogy will be a way not only to honor the deceased, but to bring a measure of comfort to the family as they are able to listen to your anecdotes about their loved one.

While it can be a difficult task for some, writing a eulogy does not require excellent writing skills. Instead, you will just be talking about someone that you know, and sharing some of the things that you loved about the person.

When writing a eulogy for a friend, you should introduce yourself as there is a good chance that many people in the room may now know you. Then you should talk very briefly about how you met the deceased and the nature of your relationship. For example, “I’m Brad Cooper. I met Scott in college where we were roommates freshman year.”

The point of this is only so that those listening will have an understanding about who is talking. Once those few sentences are out of the way, the meat of the eulogy can begin. If possible and appropriate, include a few stories from over the years. Remember, you are trying to share about the kind of person he or she was. Often, painting a picture over several years is an effective way to do that.

Some find it to be a good idea to talk with the family before writing a eulogy. Ask if there is anything that they want you to include – or leave out – of your eulogy.

Even if they have no input, it is very appropriate that you acknowledge the family and the deceased’s love for the family. Of course, you do not want to lie, but in most cases it will be quite easy to include stories that illustrate the love the deceased had for his wife, children and other relatives.

If it happens that the deceased said some kind things about any of his relatives to you, you could certainly include that, as long as the words were not too personal.

If you were asked to give a eulogy to a friend, you have a wonderful opportunity both to honor his or her memory and to say goodbye. Draw on your own memories and knowledge of the person as well as the wishes of the family.

Doing so will help you to create a eulogy that is touching, appropriate and a wonderful way to honor the person that you have lost.