how do i start a funeral speech for my dad

• Loss Of Father

How to Write a Funeral Speech for Dad From a Daughter

Updated 12/1/2023

Published 04/22/2020

Yvonne Bertovich

Contributing writer

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Whether your dad’s death came suddenly or circumstances allowed for end-of-life planning, the process of writing a funeral speech for your father is challenging for many reasons.

Keep in mind that a funeral speech or eulogy for your father doesn’t have to be formal or professional. Though you may be unsure about all of the words you choose, your dad would probably love all of them just the same. After all, you are his daughter. 

Jump ahead to these sections:

What should you include in a funeral speech, steps for writing a funeral speech from a daughter for a father, funeral speech from a daughter for a father: faqs.

If you’re a daughter writing a funeral speech for your father, you can take a bit of pressure off of yourself by reading some tips and examples. Below, we’ve provided the steps you need to write a meaningful tribute speech for your dad. You’ll also find a few examples and additional resources to use as inspiration or a jumping-off point.

Virtual funeral tip : If you're speaking at a virtual funeral using a service like GatheringUs , you can still share your thoughts or eulogy with your online guests. Coordinate with your planning team, make sure you have the right microphones and audio equipment, and send online guests digital funeral programs with the full speaking schedule.

Most people have never written a funeral speech before when they’re called upon to do so. It’s understandable that you might not know what’s supposed to be included. Here’s a basic outline of what a funeral speech for your father might look like. 

Introduction

Open your funeral speech for your dad with a warm greeting to those present. If there are people in attendance who might not know who you are, introduce yourself. 

Especially if you’re the first or last person speaking, make sure to welcome those in attendance and thank them for being there. A meaningful quote can also be a touching addition to a funeral speech introduction.

Story or anecdote

Next, consider sharing a brief story or anecdote that gracefully captures who your father was as a person. You can tie the themes of this story in throughout your funeral speech, so choose one that represents the qualities you want to talk about in more depth. Your story can be humorous or serious depending on what you want to share and what you feel is appropriate.

Celebrate his life  

A funeral speech is a good time to highlight your father's accomplishments, whether personal or professional. Discuss his passions, hobbies, and interests. Share any achievements that brought him joy and fulfillment.

Relationships and connections

As part of your speech, you may want to speak about your father's relationships with family and friends. Share stories that showcase his impact on the lives of others.

Lessons and wisdom

Towards the end of your speech is a good time to discuss and highlight any profound lessons or pieces of wisdom your father shared with you. Consider sharing quotes or sayings that he often repeated or the ways his advice and influence impacted your life. 

Finally, make sure to thank everyone for their support and presence in your closing. Acknowledge the love and strength found in the gathered community.

Writing a funeral speech for a father isn’t a process that you should try to take on all in one go. Taking the process step by step can go a long way towards decreasing the stress it causes. 

Here are the steps we recommend following if you’re a daughter writing a funeral speech for your father.

Step 1: Treat it as part of your healing process

Though it may hurt, healing can begin even before your father’s memorial service . Everyone heals differently. But to move past the worst feelings you’re experiencing surrounding your dad’s death, you have to let yourself feel them.

Starting your funeral speech may have to wait until you’ve written some other things out. You don’t have to write in any formal structure or create thought clouds. You may simply choose to scribble out emotions or recurring thoughts until they become clear.

Step 2: Create a good environment

After you’ve had some time to hash out some emotions, it’s time to shift your focus to productivity. Regardless of what your profession is, everyone has some sort of ideal environment for getting things done.

Think about what yours looks like. What time of day are your thoughts the clearest? Where in your home is the most comfortable spot to work? What kind of music motivates, uplifts, or inspires you?

You may also consider surrounding yourself with some of your dad’s favorite items during this time. Consider having one of his favorite foods as a snack, wearing one of his t-shirts, or having a photo of the two of you in your workspace. It will likely cause you to remember some small details you’d like to include that focus on the high points of your life together, rather than simply his death. 

Step 3: Write down some key points

What are some unforgettable things about your dad? As his daughter, you have a unique perspective about how he addressed a variety of trials he likely faced in his life . How was he there for you? How was he there for your family?

Even if your relationship was rocky at times and you’re afraid of sounding harsh or insincere, consider the gravity of what you’re saying. This is one of the last things you’re addressing your dad with. Do you want to focus on the positives or the negatives?

Before you officially begin your draft, just freely jot down some bullet points or key phrases. This will help you organize your thoughts and the overall order of your speech. You may also be interested in how to write an unforgettable eulogy (for just about anyone). 

Step 4: “Call” your dad

If you hit a wall during your writing process—which is quite possible—or you’re just unsure about what you’ve written so far, it may benefit you to “call” your dad. This may sound odd, but perhaps having a conversation with him right now would help you out of your rut. 

What advice would he give you? What was something he always said to you? Even if the details you come up with seem small or silly, it may just be the extra touches your speech could benefit from.

After all, you’re writing this speech as his daughter. Using your unique perspective about your and your dad’s relationship should feel nothing short of special, even if the two of you didn’t always see eye-to-eye. 

Step 5: Take breaks

Another way to address writer’s block is to take a break. In fact, no matter how far you’ve gotten in your draft or drafts, you should take a break to let your words and thoughts sit a while. You may have some more clarity about what to say after taking some time away to do some things you enjoy. Or, better yet, do something you and your dad used to enjoy doing together. You may also be interested in inspirational quotes for funerals . 

Once you’ve taken some time away and feel ready to return, you should read your progress aloud and edit as you would any other written work. 

That said, you have to remember that this is a speech. It shouldn’t read like a thesis. Check out tips for speaking at a funeral if you’re unsure of your abilities. At the end of the day, it should just feel like talking to your dad and loved ones, because that’s all it is. Don’t be too hard on yourself.

Step 6: Keep it authentic

You should be respectful of your audience while remaining true to yourself and the person your dad knows you to be.

If your dad used colorful language or had an aggressive curfew, talk about it if it seems right. It’s these details that made your dad who he was and who he was to you. Shedding light and honoring this relationship is the whole point of this speech, after all. 

As a reminder, this speech is about honoring the relationship that you and he had, not any others. You shouldn’t feel forced or obligated to cover every aspect of what your dad brought to this world. After all, that would probably be a really long speech. 

And, again, you shouldn’t worry so much about your speech being “perfect,” because there’s likely no such thing. 

Examples of Eulogies for Dads From His Daughter

If none of the examples below quite hit the mark, we hope they at least provide you with some inspiration or some sort of starting point. After all, you should strive to make your speech as unique as possible. For more ideas, check out these funeral poems .

Eulogy example one

“My dad was the greatest role model I could have ever asked for, and the best grandpa. I only wish he could have been around longer for my boys, but I know we’ll be able to keep him alive with stories.

"Most of those, of course, are a bit PG-13, so we’re gonna have to wait. I already miss you so much, Dad, and I don’t know how we’re all going to make it without you. But, because of you, and the strength you instilled in me, I know we can, one day at a time.”

Eulogy example two

“Dad, I have you to blame for my sense of humor, my occasional temper, and so many other things that I both love and dislike about myself. I guess, now, I can only love them because they remind me of you. Standing up here talking about you is really weird, because it feels like you’re still in the room. I’d like to imagine I’ll always feel like you’re in the room.

"Like it’s just another day and you’re waking me up to tell me my breakfast is ready or that it’s time to go to softball practice. It won’t be quite like that, but, as you always said, daydreaming is important. I promise I’ll continue to daydream and recite old movies in my head with you. I’ll miss you so much.”

Eulogy example three

“My old man would hate the fact that I’m standing here calling him an old man. But you know what? He was an old man. And even though I won’t say he went at the right time, I’m damn grateful that I got to spend this long with him and that he fought so hard. That’s one of the main things that my dad taught me.

"Each day you’re given, you may have to fight a little or a lot. And when you need to fight harder, you fight harder. That being said, he also believed that each day was a gift — rather, each moment was a gift. So, also using his logic, you should always have a few desserts every day. Of course, only after your workouts are through.”

Some questions you have about writing a funeral speech for your father might not be covered in the sections above. Here are some of the frequently asked questions about writing a funeral speech for a father from a daughter that can provide some additional insight.

How long should the speech be?

Aim for a duration of around 5-10 minutes. This allows you to share meaningful stories without overwhelming the audience.

Should I add humor?

If your father had a sense of humor, sharing light-hearted and positive anecdotes can be a beautiful way to celebrate his life. However, use discretion and consider the tone of the overall gathering.

How do I handle emotions during the speech?

It's natural to feel emotional when giving a funeral speech for your father. Take your time, breathe, and allow yourself to express your feelings. The audience will understand.

Should I write or speak spontaneously?

While it's good to have a written speech, don't be afraid to speak from the heart. You can use notes to guide you, but authenticity is key.

Can I involve others in the speech?

Absolutely. Consider inviting family members or close friends to share their own memories. This can create a richer and more varied tribute.

Losing a Father Isn’t Easy

No matter how old you are or how old your dad was at his passing, it’s OK to regard this as the hardest thing you’ve ever gone through. 

Death is not easy. But the more we all recognize it and come together, the easier healing will be. Funerals and funeral traditions, such as speeches, are a meaningful way to honor your father and his legacy. To continue celebrating your dad’s life years after his death, consider these ideas for acknowledging death anniversaries .

Categories:

• Funerals & Memorial Services

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How to Write a Eulogy For a Father

Last Updated: June 22, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Rebecca Tenzer, MAT, MA, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS, CCATP, CCFP . Rebecca Tenzer is the owner and head clinician at Astute Counseling Services, a private counseling practice in Chicago, Illinois. With over 18 years of clinical and educational experience in the field of mental health, Rebecca specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, grief, interpersonal relationships using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, and other evidence-based practices. Rebecca holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sociology and Anthropology from DePauw University, a Master in Teaching (MAT) from Dominican University, and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Chicago. Rebecca has served as a member of the AmeriCorps and is also a Professor of Psychology at the collegiate level. Rebecca is trained as a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT), a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist (CGCS), a Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), and a Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP). Rebecca is also a member of the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Society of America and The National Association of Social Workers. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 650,490 times.

Writing a eulogy for your father can be a heartbreaking experience. It's perfectly normal to feel sad and nervous when composing such a personal eulogy, so take care of yourself throughout the writing process. To start your eulogy, spend some time brainstorming. Think about your most treasured memories of your father and how they can fit into a eulogy. From there, you can begin writing. Write a piece that expresses how much your father meant to you, and how grateful you are for his presence in your life. As delivering a eulogy for your father can be emotionally trying, practice a bit before delivering the eulogy to make sure you're okay speaking about your father publicly.

Things You Should Know

• Understand that a eulogy is different from an obituary, because a eulogy focuses on a person's personal story and capturing who they were.
• Include sensory details to color the piece. Make sure to include at least one story about your father to engage the audience.
• Read through your eulogy again and edit as needed—does this cover your father's personality well and follow a theme?

Prewriting Your Eulogy

• Avoid writing laundry lists of achievements, and including an excess of facts about the person. Instead, focus on stories and memories that speak to a person's character.

• Also, think about what external things you associate with your father. What music reminds you of your dad, as well as movies, television shows, foods, sounds, and smells? You may want to immerse yourself in these things as you write, as this may trigger some valuable memories for your eulogy.

• You do not have to be insightful or make sense of death. It's okay to admit death is terrible and baffling. Try to make sense of a person's life. Who was your father and what will the world be like without him?
• You can figure out vague concepts as a theme. Maybe your father was an attorney who took on civil rights cases. You can focus on the theme of generosity, community, and helping others. Maybe your father was a business man who made his own fortune. Your theme can be something like the benefits of tenacity, hard work, and dedication.
• You can also talk about what you learned from your father. What is the greatest lesson he taught you? How do you incorporate that lesson in your life today?

• You can write your eulogy in chronological order. This may be helpful if you include anecdotes from your father's early life, as well as his later life. If you find your stories and memories come from different points in time, chronological order may make sense.
• You can also organize your eulogy by ideas. If you're talking about several characteristics of your father, all illustrated by different moments and memories, organize by ideas. For example, you're talking about your father's success as a business man and how this success was due to determination, work ethic, and personal skill. You can have a section on each of these qualities, and include appropriate memories and anecdotes.

Writing the Eulogy

• This will probably be the easiest part of the eulogy. You simply have to say who you are, and how close you were to your father. This helps give you credibility.
• For example, you can open with something like, "My name is Jane Sherman, and we are gathered here today to say goodbye to my father, Glenn. I was an only child, and because of this particularly close to my dad. We talked almost every day, even after I moved away from home."

• You may want to talk with your family and the funeral director here. You want your tone to match the service. If it's a religious ceremony, you may want to adopt a somber and respectful tone, for example.
• However, do not let the service completely dictate tone. You want your tone to reflect who your father was as a person, primarily. If your father was a jovial person, always joking around, you can adopt a more lighthearted tone. Think of your eulogy more as a celebration of a life than an act of grieving.

• For example, say your eulogy is about how your father was always able to find fun, despite having a somewhat difficult life. Select an anecdote that speaks to your father's ability to find levity, despite the circumstances.
• Say your father died of lung cancer. You can talk about how he faced his diagnosis with humor. You could start with something like, "When my father first found out he had cancer, he joked about his treatment options. I remember him saying to me, 'I'm optimistic about radiation though.' When I asked him why, hoping the prognosis was positive, he responded, 'I'm hoping exposure to radiation will turn me into a superhero. I could be the next Spiderman.'"

• Sensory details can help. Maybe your father loved working outdoors, and he always smelled like soil. Maybe your father loved the color red, and almost always incorporated red into his wardrobe.
• Include as many tiny details as you remember. For example, "I remember my dad was always singing old Johnny Cash songs, and he had a deep, baritone voice just like Johnny Cash. I would wake up Sunday mornings to hear him singing, 'I Walk the Line' from the basement, the smell of fresh coffee wafting into my bedroom.'"

• If your father was religious, Bible quotes can help. There is a lot in the Bible about life and death, so you can look here.
• You can also look into books, movies, songs, and television quotes your father loved. If your father was a huge fan of Robert Frost, you can include a line from a Robert Frost poem in your eulogy.

• Think of something funny to say about your father. Was he overly argumentative? Include a humorous story about him arguing about a bill in a diner long after everyone else had let the issue go. You could say something like, "Despite my father's appreciation for humor, he was not perfect. He could be overly critical, and at times argumentative. I remember once, on a family vacation, we stopped at a Denny's..."
• A story that illustrates flaws should be light in nature. You do not want to sound like you're angry at the deceased, as this can come off as disrespectful. You do not, for example, want to include the story of an epic, serious argument you and your dad had to illustrate he was argumentative. This will not provide laughter. Instead, focus on a low-stakes situation that will make people laugh.

• Think of a few final thoughts that will sum up your father for others. Tell the audience, directly, what you are trying to say. For instance, "What I learned from my father was that life is short, and often brutal, and the best way to combat all that is with a good laugh and an ability to appreciate the small moments of joy, despite any circumstances."
• You should also thank the audience for their time. Briefly say something like, "I appreciate you all coming out to remember my father, Glenn Sherman, and giving me an opportunity to tell you a little bit more about him. I know he would have been honored to know how many people cared enough to attend."

Completing and Delivering the Eulogy

• Ask yourself whether your eulogy makes sense. Do your stories illustrate your theme? Do you feel like anything is missing? Is there a story you should have included or an aspect of your father's personality you could have explored more? Is there anything that feels like it doesn't belong?
• Add to your eulogy as needed. If you feel like there's room for expansion, expand as needed. You can also cut anything out that you feel like does not add to the theme. Time is an issue. The average eulogy should only last 5 to 7 minutes.

• If you want to memorize the whole speech, memorize small chunks one at a time. It can be daunting to remember everything.
• You should write down notes with reminders on them. This will help you stay on track as you deliver your speech.

• You can ask a friend or family member to listen to you practice. They can give you feedback on how to make your delivery smoother.

• Reach out to others. Your existing relationships are important during grief. Lean on friends and family members during your weak moments.
• Try to work on reframing your sense of identity. Losing a parent can make you feel you've lost a source of personal guidance. Try to think about who you are without your father, and how you can move forward.
• Stay in the present. Remember, the present is where your life is occurring right now. Be grateful for what you do have. Try to be thankful for life each day, and live it to the fullest despite your loss.

Sample Eulogy

Expert Q&A

• Keep your father's eulogy to about 5 or 10 minutes. The length does not matter, but you might find it hard to talk for more than 10 minutes about the father you lost. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 0
• Make eye contact with the mourners as you give your eulogy. This will help you establish more of a connection with your audience than you would when reading straight from your paper. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 3

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/skills/how-to/write-deliver-eulogy/
• ↑ Rebecca Tenzer, MAT, MA, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS, CCATP, CCFP. Clinical Therapist & Adjunct Professor. Expert Interview. 29 November 2021.
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/brainstorming/
• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/how-to-write-a-eulogy/
• ↑ https://www.toastmasters.org/magazine/magazine-issues/2020/nov/delivering-a-heartfelt-farewell
• ↑ https://ideas.ted.com/how-to-give-a-eulogy-that-truly-celebrates-the-person-youre-honoring/

About This Article

To write a eulogy for your father, brainstorm some ideas by writing down memories of him. Once you have a list of ideas, use it to help you come up with a theme for your eulogy that sums up who your father was, such as generosity, hard-working, or helping others. When you begin writing, introduce yourself so the audience will know your relationship to your father. Follow this up with a story or anecdote that speaks to who your father was, which will help engage your audience. For example, if your father was a humorous person, you might talk about how he responded with a joke when talking about his health problems. After the story, include small details about your father, such as how he always liked working outside or singing old songs, since the details will help friends and relatives grieve. In conclusion, write a few statements to sum up your theme, by saying something like, “What I learned from my father is that you should treat others the way you want to be treated.” For tips on how to edit and deliver your eulogy, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write a Meaningful Eulogy for Your Father

Gabrielle is an experienced freelance writer and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience using equine-assisted therapy.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

Writing a eulogy for your father can not only feel emotionally draining, but it can also be difficult to know where to start. Breaking up the eulogy into sections and tackling each piece one bit at a time can make writing it feel more manageable. Remember to take breaks and give yourself room to process your feelings if they come up during the writing process.

Writing a Eulogy for Your Father

There is no right or wrong way to write a eulogy. Based on your father's personality and your own, it's best to begin to think about the tone you are going for. While some people focus on creating a more serious and somber tone, there are no rules stating that you can't add in anything funny or silly. If your father was a lighthearted person who enjoyed making others laugh, you can certainly add in some of his sillier moments. It can be easier to write a eulogy that reflects your father's actual personality versus trying to write what you think a eulogy should be.

• 18 Poignant Poems in Memory of Dad
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The Introduction in the Eulogy

The introduction to the eulogy will set the tone for your speech. In the opening lines, you may want to introduce yourself, your relationship to the deceased individual, and thank a few people. You can consider saying:

• Hi everyone, I'm (insert name). I am (insert father's name) child. I want to start off by thanking you all for coming out today to celebrate my father's beautiful life.
• Hello, I'm (insert father's name) (insert child, son or daughter). I want to thank you all for coming today to honor my dad. I know some of you travelled a very long distance to pay your respects and I know my dad would have loved to seeing you all together.
• Hello everyone. I'm (insert name). I'm (insert dad's name) (insert child, son, or daughter). Although today is going to be a very hard day, I want to take this time to remember and honor the special memories I had with my dad.

Adding in More Details About Your Father

After your introduction, you can go into a little detail about your dad. Describe his personality, any quirks, his likes, dislikes, and anything else that really exemplifies his true traits or characteristics. You can say:

• My dad was always a funny guy. He loved playing practical jokes on his siblings growing up. This tradition played out as I was growing up too. He loved to come up with these silly bits, or funny jokes that always made us all buckle over with laughter.
• My father was an incredible person. He was not only the best role model, but he volunteered in his free time. See my dad wasn't okay with only being a wonderful father, but he also wanted to give back to the world and help others in need.
• My dad's most notable feature was his height. He was over six feet tall. You'd think his towering presence would be intimidating, but he was the most kind and gentle person I've ever known.

Adding in Anecdotes

Short anecdotes can be meaningful to speak about. They remind you and others of your father's most notable moments, or simple experiences that sum up his unique personality. It may feel overwhelming to speak about specific memories the day of, so take your time and know that it's okay to pause, have someone else speak, or end your speech early if this feels like too much. You can think about sharing:

• Favorite childhood memories: One of my favorite childhood memories happened when...
• Funny moments that were shared just between you two: A story that sums up my dad happened when he....
• Sweet traditions: My dad and I had this secret tradition where we would....
• Memories where your father taught you something that stuck with you: One of the most important lessons I learned from my dad was...

Concluding the Eulogy

To close out the eulogy, you can keep it simple. You can write something yourself, or add in a favorite poem or quote of your father's. Keep in mind you and others may be feeling very upset or sentimental at this time. You can say:

• I cherish the memories I have with my father and know he is smiling down on all of us. Thank you again for coming out today to celebrate the memory of my amazing father.
• I feel so grateful to have had as much time with my father as I did. I miss him so much already and I will forever remember having the most incredible dad.
• I don't know how long it will take me to grieve this tremendous loss. My father was the most important person in my life and I feel heartbroken to no longer have him here with us. His memory will forever carry on.

How to Handle Feeling Overwhelmed

If at any point you begin to feel overwhelmed or too upset to write the eulogy, you can:

• Reach out for support and call a trusted friend or family member
• Take a walk and focus on your breathing and surroundings
• Journal about your feelings
• Spend some time with your pets or a friend's pet
• Allow yourself to feel and be kind to yourself during this difficult time
• Practice progressive muscle relaxation

Sample Eulogy Speeches for a Father

If you feel stuck, you can click, edit, and print out some sample speeches to help you get started.

Eulogy for the Father Who Was a Fighter

This sample eulogy works well for any dad who fought through an illness with strength and dignity.

Eulogy for the Soft-Spoken Father

For the father who lived his life in a reserved, yet gentle way, this eulogy sample may be a good template to work off of.

Writing a Beautiful Eulogy for Your Father

Take your time and be kind to yourself as you write your father's eulogy. This can be an incredibly challengign task to take on, especially during a time of heightened emotions and stress. Do the best you can and know that whatever you write will be a meaningful tribute to your father.

Eulogy Examples: How to Write a Eulogy for a Loved One

By Bernie Flowers

How do you distill a lifetime of memories and experiences into a 15-minute eulogy? It’s an honor to hold the responsibility of eulogizing your loved one, but it can feel like a challenge to fit everything you want to say in one speech.

Instead of making the funeral attendees feel like they are reading an encyclopedia from cover-to-cover, look for ways to highlight the rich life experiences that matter most. A eulogy should be a sampling of the best the person had to offer including accomplishments, personality traits, and memorable stories.

When it comes to eulogy writing, you can search online for ideas and examples. But the most important thing you need to keep in mind: quality over quantity .

All this being said, we would advise having a professional write your Eulogy for you and you can avail of our Eulogy Writing Concierge Service

What is a Eulogy?

Giving a eulogy means that you are sharing a remembrance speech with the purpose of paying tribute to a loved one. This speech is given at the funeral or memorial service by a family member or close friend.

A good eulogy highlights the lasting impact of the person on their family and community. Through your speech, you’ll have an opportunity to share their unique qualities, as well as the ripple effect of positivity and change they created in the world around them.

How can you best honor  your loved one? A eulogy can be a part of your healing, and a beautiful way to reflect on the details that were most special about them.

Eulogy Examples

One of the simplest ways to write a eulogy is to review a eulogy speech example that matches your own preferred tone and style. What makes a eulogy unique is the unique details you’ll share about the person themselves, which is why it’s essential to customize your eulogy to honor and celebrate the personality of your loved one.

You may want to start with our primer on how to write a eulogy . Then, use the following outline and eulogy examples to create a strong speech  that communicates the message you want to share about the person who meant so much to you.

Eulogy Sample Outline

Using a eulogy sample outline is a proven way to create a great speech. Remember those Mad Libs books from your childhood? This process is similar: follow the outline and plug in the personal details applicable to your loved one. 

These eulogy samples help you overcome writer's block and keep you focused on the details that matter most. Aim to cap the eulogy at a maximum of 10 minutes total. The simplest eulogy outline can be broken down into three parts, so you’ll need to consider how much time to spend on each section:

• Set the tone by beginning with a poem, quote, or scripture that was meaningful to the person.
• Names they were known by, including nicknames and maiden names.
• Cause of death (an optional detail).
• A brief insight into your relationship with the individual.
• Accomplishments
• Major life events
• Stories or fond memories
• How the person affected others
• Childhood years
• Travel adventures
• Marriage and children
• Any other thoughts you want to share about the person
• A final take away from your theme
• How you want family and friends to remember the individual
• What the person would want you to remember them for
• Quote, scripture, or song lyric
• Thank attendees for participating

Eulogy Examples for a Friend

It can be helpful to write this eulogy as if you were talking to a friend. Common talking points might include:

• Common activities enjoyed together
• What you like most about the person
• Personality traits or phrases they often use
• How you would describe the person
• What will you remember them by?

Here is a eulogy example for a friend:

I can’t imagine how empty it will feel to spend time on the basketball court without Jim by my side. Our relationship was built with a basketball in hand, and evolved to share many family gatherings and other activities together over the years. With his passing, Jim is leaving behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and generosity.

Jim shared good humor and a big smile with everyone he met. Even though people often cursed at his practical jokes, he was an integral part of creating a solid foundation of friendship in our group. When times were difficult, he could always put a smile on my face. He held his head high until the end, showing what it looks like to finish strong.

Eulogy Examples for Your Father

Writing a eulogy for your dad may be really tough. How do you memorialize your hero amid grief and emotion? We hope these tips and the example below will help you in your process. 

• Share childhood experiences when spending time with dad
• Talk about his best qualities
• Capture his essence through “dad jokes” and the things that made you laugh
• Tell about the things you will miss most about him
• Describe his role in your upbringing

Here is a eulogy example for your father:

My dad was my hero. He could make every person feel like they were the most important person in the world. Growing up, I knew that I could always ask Dad for help – and he would be willing to drop anything to lend a hand. He was a rock of stability in my childhood and a source of strength for our whole family.

My father was a man who infused fun into the most mundane tasks. I remember how he would turn our bedtime routine into an adventure that included highlights from our favorite storybooks. He was a kind and thoughtful person. Every night at the dinner table, he encouraged us to talk about the things we were grateful for, and always had yummy treats for us kids hidden in the back of the pantry. I will miss you, Dad, and I’ll always hold onto the amazing memories we shared together.

Eulogy Examples for Your Mother

How can you ever do justice to a eulogy for your beloved mother – the woman who was always there with love and guidance through the ups and downs, the celebrations and challenging moments of your life? Here are a few tips for writing a eulogy for your mother:

• Describe the way she showed her love for you
• Celebrate the small ways she turned your house into a home
• Highlight the impact she made throughout the community
• Explain the smells, sounds, and feelings you felt when arriving home
• Share stories from childhood and adulthood that reflect her character

Here is a eulogy example for your mother:

Today we are honoring, celebrating, and remembering {mom’s full name]. She was a woman of grace and courage, with a stubborn streak that showed up when she set her mind to something, like going back to school to become a nurse at age 40. 

My mother was truly my best friend and I am humbled by the challenge of describing the fullness of her beauty and caring here today. I don't know how she did it, but Mom always found the perfect balance between work and home. Even though she worked 40 – 50 hours a week to support us, she prioritized family dinner. That time was sacred to our family. Her love and kindness were infused in everything she did, whether she was baking cookies for a bake sale to help the hospital or sewing our Halloween costumes by hand year after year. 

She had a magical way of bringing joy every time she walked into the room. No one who met her could forget her smile. And I’ll never forget the advice and the lessons she taught me. Her wisdom will forever guide the decisions I make through the rest of my life. I love you, Mom.

Eulogy Examples for Your Grandmother

How do you share the details about the love you felt through your relationship with a grandmother? Follow these tips to write a good eulogy for this important woman:

• Talk about the fun traditions she brought for your favorite holiday
• What was she known for in the community?
• How did her influence touch your life?
• What are the daily moments that will remind you of her?
• Share funny stories that showcase her quirks or sense of humor

Here is a eulogy example for your grandmother:

My grandmother paid attention to the details – it was the little things that added the finishing touch to every experience. Whether she was setting out the treat jar on the kitchen table or clinking the glass while drinking her iced tea, she always prioritized food and drinks.

Since she loved to shop, grandma would often take us to the mall when we were visiting for the weekend. We would have fashion shows in the dressing rooms and often come home with bright, frilly dresses that were perfect for twirling.

When grandpa was away for the war, grandma was an example of always getting back up again when things get hard. She never complained; just worked hard and supported her family at all times. Despite the personal challenges, she always looked outside of herself – which is why she will be remembered as a beacon of light in this community.

Eulogy Examples for Your Grandfather

What are the details that make your grandfather larger than life? Here are a few ideas to help when writing a eulogy for this great man:

• Explain the qualities that best describe his personality
• Tell about the details that made him stand out from other grandparents
• What hobbies or passions did he share with the family?
• How will the neighborhood or community remember him?
• Talk about stories that were life-changing moments for him

Here is a eulogy example for your grandfather:

Even though my grandfather didn’t like to be the center of attention, he had an undeniable impact on the community. If he was here with us today, he wouldn’t want us to share grief and sorrow. Instead, his desire would be to focus on the happy memories and joyful experiences shared over the years.

Grandpa was a man who set a lasting impression on everyone he met. His deep laugh and kind eyes warmed the room and brought life into the most boring daily activities. Grandpa loved spending time with his grandkids because he said that it made him feel young at heart.

He was a great teacher and a dependable friend. His advice and guidance will continue to carry me through the joys and challenges that life has to offer.

Eulogy Examples for Your Brother

Siblings share a special bond, giving you deep insights to share about your brother. Follow these tips for writing a good eulogy:

• What was it like growing up in the same house together?
• Describe the way your relationship changed in adulthood
• Share funny stories about sibling rivalries
• Explain the lasting impact he left on you and the family
• List his favorite hobbies and food

Here is a eulogy example for your brother:

While it’s tragic to think about Kyle leaving us too soon, he left behind a lifetime of memories that we can celebrate. Kyle was always ready for a fun day with friends – he would have been the one showing up today with the perfect playlist for the event.

Even though my brother was a few years older than me, he always included me in the adventures with his friends. I never felt like the little brother he was dragging along. He made me feel special and included in the group, and helped me build confidence along the way.

Kyle was my best friend and I can’t imagine what life is going to be like without him sending me funny cat memes every night. But I know that his memory will live on when I eat his favorite pizza or hear his favorite band on the radio.

Eulogy Examples for Your Sister

If you’ve lost a sibling, we are truly sorry, Writing a eulogy for your sister can be a way to honor her through your memories of your childhood and growing up with her, as well as the milestones of her life. A few ideas for this eulogy include:

• Share her notable life accomplishments
• Retell your favorite stories from growing up together
• Highlight the kind of person she was
• Summarize your relationship in a few short words
• Talk about what she meant to you and how she influenced your life

Here is a eulogy example for your sister:

My sister, Kim, might have been a little shy at the first introduction. But once she warmed up to a friendship, she always had plenty to say every time she talked. Kim loved to share stories from her time volunteering at the children’s hospital and she had a beautiful gift of making everyone feel like the most important person in the world.

We were only a year apart, which meant that I was the younger sister who was often stealing her clothes or listening in on her conversations with her boyfriend. Even though I was the pesky sibling who cracked jokes about her unique style, she was everything I wanted to be when I grew up. She was independent, strong, and beautiful. She was a free spirit who wasn’t afraid to act boldly, like moving to Paris after college and starting her own business. She was my partner in crime, and I could always tell her everything. She will never be replaced. . My dear sister, I love you and I will be forever grateful for every moment we spent together.

Short Eulogy Examples

Short and sweet is a good rule of thumb to follow when writing a eulogy. Consider these important talking points if you want to write a short eulogy:

• Highlight the person’s passions or interests
• What were the most memorable times you spent together?
• Sum up the person’s character using a story or memory
• Express your gratitude for the impact the person had on your life
• Talk about their influence on family and community

Here is a short eulogy example:

The years I spent with Kathy in my life were filled with excitement and adventure. She showed up for life in the biggest way possible. From the moment she shared her cookie with me on the first day of kindergarten, I knew we would be best friends.

She spent many years working as a teacher, and her heart was big enough to offer individual attention to every child that walked into her classroom. Kathy made a difference in the lives of hundreds of children over the years, and her kindness and positivity will leave an unwavering legacy in this community.

Funny Eulogy Examples

Sometimes a bit of humor is the perfect way to lighten the mood and showcase the personality of your loved one. Consider these tips if you want to add a few jokes into the eulogy:

• Point out the person’s comedic qualities
• Be specific about sharing their jokes or pranks
• Look for ways to communicate what the person would say if they wrote the speech
• Find the right balance of humor to share laughs without being irreverent
• Share a funny poem or a quote from the person’s favorite movie

Here is a funny eulogy example:

Anyone who met Josh quickly learned that there are always laughs to be shared. It was impossible to spend time with him without enjoying a gut-busting laugh at some point in the conversation. Josh was known as the class clown, and his jokes were quick-witted and hilarious.

Who could forget the time Josh showed up to the family reunion wearing that ridiculous blow-up dinosaur costume? He chased the kids around the park until everyone laughed until they were crying.

Many funny memories came out of our family camping trips. He couldn’t sit down to enjoy a peaceful campfire. Instead, the s’more making always seemed to turn into a marshmallow fight – with white puffs flying through the air when you least expected it. Josh kept a smile on my face through the ups and downs of life, and I will keep on smiling in his honor.

Personalizing the Eulogy

As you read through these funeral eulogy examples, the most important thing to remember is that there isn’t a right or wrong way to write a eulogy. Instead, consider the best way to share the person in the way they would want others to remember them. It’s your chance to verbalize your love and honor the memories of your loved one.

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Sample Eulogy - Father

Losing my Father is one of the most difficult things I have gone through.  As I am standing up here today, I realize how fortunate I was to have him as my Father.  There are not words to express his influence in my life.  It is through his example that I learned to be the father and husband that I am today.  My father was hardworking, strong, loving, and gentle.   He loved his family and was deeply devoted to my mother and three siblings.   However, he was no Saint by any means or stretch of the imagination.   As a child, I always looked forward to his childhood friends, "Uncle Mike" and "Uncle Dennis"  coming over to the house.  They would reminisce and tell stories about their youth, and every once in a while, usually after they had had a few beers, they would forget I was in the room, and start to tell the un-edited versions of their stories.  I would always learn some new information about my Dad, and his wild side from when he was younger.

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How to write a eulogy.

One of the most challenging parts of funeral planning is writing a fitting tribute to your loved one.

How can you find the words to capture just how much your friend or family member means to you? It’s harder still because you’re grieving, so emotions are running high, concentration is low, and the pressure may be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this guide on how to write a eulogy, complete with examples to get you started. 

Jump to section:

How to write a eulogy – 6 tips

An example structure.

• Eulogy for a parent
• Eulogy for a sibling
• Eulogy for a grandparent
• Eulogy for a friend

More eulogy examples

What is a eulogy.

A eulogy is a short speech given at a funeral or memorial service for a person who has died. The tradition originates from ancient Greece, and the word literally means “praise”. The key is to write the eulogy in a way that does their life justice and respects their loved ones’ memories and feelings of grief.

Who should deliver a eulogy?

Speaking about someone who has died in front of their family and friends is a courageous thing to do. If you feel daunted by the prospect, ask people around you for support. While a close relative or friend usually writes the funeral speech, it can also be delivered by an official, such as a religious leader. Do what feels right and keep it flexible. For example, if you want to write the eulogy but worry about breaking down in tears , ask someone else to be on standby to read it for you if need be.

1. Make it personal

Introducing yourself in relation to the person you are remembering can be a good place to start. Describe what they meant to you, and what qualities defined them in your eyes. This will establish a connection with other people at the service and put you in the picture for those who might not know you very well.

2. Cover the essentials

When thinking about how to write a eulogy, it’s a good idea to structure it with a beginning, a middle and an end. And while it is not the same as an obituary, it usually includes brief aspects of the late person’s life, such as their early beginnings, their education and career, and particular skills, achievements or interests. Saying something specific about their family life, and mentioning their partner and/or children by name, can feel particularly important to their closest relatives.

3. Get personal stories from others

Just like our relationships with a particular person differ, so do our feelings about them when they die . To make sure you write a good eulogy that will feel meaningful to others, ask a few close friends or relatives to contribute by sharing a favourite memory, personal story, or anecdote . A range of perspectives will enrich your speech and help strike the right tone right with your audience. You might also discover a true gem in the process, like a beautiful quote that perfectly captures your loved one’s personality, qualities, and quirks.

4. Consider the length

How long should a eulogy be? Some funeral speeches are very brief and there are no set rules for length, but 3-5 minutes is common. Make it long enough to properly honour the person and say what needs to be said, in proportion to the rest of the funeral service. To get it right, try reading it out loud a few times while timing yourself and editing accordingly.

5. Make it honest

It is possible to talk about someone’s achievements and qualities without glorifying them and mention shortcomings or disappointments in a kind and accepting way. None of us are perfect, and we remember those we have lost in all their human complexity. Follow your instincts, even using some gentle humour if it feels right and relevant. And if you’re not sure, ask someone else for their honest feedback before you finalise your eulogy.

6. End on a touching note

Ending a eulogy on the right note can be tricky. One option is to finish with a poem or quote that feels consoling and meaningful, even if it happens to come from a movie such as Pretty Woman or Lord of the Rings ! You might find inspiration in famous eulogies, such as Matthew’s tribute to his partner Gareth in Four Weddings and a Funeral , Oprah Winfrey’s speech for Rosa Parks, Mona Simpson remembering her brother Steve Jobs, or in books and online quote collections.

Real eulogy examples

With the tips above, a ‘template’ for your loved one’s eulogy starts to come together. But if you’re not quite sure how to structure it, here’s a framework you can follow when you start writing:

Introduction :

• Give a brief background on the person who has died. Mention any nicknames they might have had; talk about their work or the things that were most important to them.
• Mention your relationship to them and what they meant to you and others. 
• Talk about some of their best qualities and values they held dear. 

Mid-section:

• You might want to include an anecdote here. Depending on the tone, you could make this funny, heart-warming, and/or even inspirational. 
• Dive deeper into the things they cared about most : this could be family, friends, a pet or even a hobby. 
• Cover their biggest accomplishments or life events. If they have a partner and/or kids, talk about them. You could even speak directly to them in parts.
• Capture what that person meant to others. This would be a good place to add personal stories or short quotes from their friends and family members.
• Start closing the eulogy with a final takeaway , whether it’s a saying your loved one often used or something that ties back to the eulogy’s overall theme. 
• At this point, you could speak directly to the loved one you have lost, and tell them ‘thank you’ and that you love them. 
• You could also thank those at the funeral or memorial service for being there, and remind them how much your loved one admired them all. 
• Think about ending with a quote, a poem, or a lyric from your loved one’s favourite song. You can keep it short and meaningful, a touching end to a funeral speech.

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Eulogy example for a parent

Talk about: 

• What your mother or father meant to you and your siblings
• What they did both for your family and a living
• How they raised you and the values they passed on
• Funny stories or touching memories that you’ll always remember
• Something they once told you or a saying they had
• The people who meant the most to them

Example eulogy:

My dad was my hero. No matter how busy things got, he always made time for the people he cared about, and showed us that family always comes first – no matter what. Everyone who knew him knew how proud he was of the people he loved, of his dog, Buddy, and of his car… of course. You never had to ask what he was doing on a Sunday – he’d be outside washing the car again . 

I’m going to miss my dad so much, but I’m grateful for the wonderful memories I have of him. The happy trips to Cornwall when we were kids, the walks we used to go on, even just sitting on the sofa watching TV together. He made everything fun, and he knew just how precious our time on Earth is. He was always reminding me and my sisters to “enjoy life”, and that’s what he did, every day. 

I know a lot of you will be feeling as heartbroken as I am right now, and I also know that if there was anything my dad wanted me to say today, it’s this: thank you, to all of you. Everyone sitting here today meant so much to him; his work friends, his childhood friends, his whole family. He often talked about how lucky he was to have you all. I hope he knew how lucky we were to have him too. I love you Dad, thank you for being the best father we could have ever hoped for. 

Eulogy examples for a sibling

There will never be enough words to sum up my big sister. She was funny, kind, smart, determined… In the eyes of me and my parents, she lit up every room she walked into. [Name] threw herself at every opportunity – she never did anything by halves. When she was 21, she signed up for the marathon because she’d seen some running shoes she liked – and, of course, she smashed it. When she was 26, she went to the dog shelter ‘just to take a look’, and came home with two pups, Charlie and Bubbles, who adored her. 

So it was no surprise that she took so naturally to becoming a mum. I can’t describe the joy of seeing [Name] raise her two girls – my two favourite people – with the same care and kindness she had always shown me as her little sister. They were her pride and joy, and there is so much of [Name] in both of them. They share her generosity, fierce loyalty, flawless sense of style, and quick wit. [Kids’ names], I know nothing will ever erase the heartbreak of losing your mum, but I hope you know that we are all here for you always. 

[Name] was also a brilliant friend. She knew anyone and everyone. Sometimes it felt like there was nowhere we could go where she wouldn’t bump into at least one person who saw how brilliant she was. People were drawn to her, and her passion for life. But no matter how many friends she made, she’d never be without her best ones: Amy and Scott. She loved you both so much, and your wild stories will live on forever. 

[Name], thank you for everything. For being the life of the party, for always knowing how to make us all laugh, and for showing us how to live life to the fullest. There will never be a day we don’t miss you, but we’ll carry your love wherever we go, and your girls will never stop hearing stories about their magical mum.

Eulogy examples for a grandparent

• Your grandmother or grandfather’s life and the people they loved
• Their personality, their humour and their values
• The role they played in your upbringing
• Heartwarming memories of time spent with them

There was nobody funnier or more quick-witted than my grandmother. She was a force of nature who never failed to surprise people with her sharp one-liners and her teasing sense of humour. But she was also incredibly warm and kind. I’ll never forget our visits, Frank Sinatra playing in her living room, bowls of sweets on every surface, and her asking me, “so, what’s the latest gossip?”

She loved to chat, travel and see friends. Nan had a more active social life than anyone I know, and was always the ‘hostess with the mostest’, finding literally any reason to throw a party. Her love for her family was such a gift; something that my brother, parents, cousins, aunts, uncles and I were so lucky to experience every day. 

But Nan’s love for people didn’t just stay in her family. She was extremely charitable, hosting fundraisers, volunteering at charity shops, and offering help to anyone in need. When our grandad passed, she dedicated so much of her time TO raising money for the hospice that looked after him, as well as the RNLI in tribute to his time as a lifeguard. 

My nan and grandad’s love is something my brother, cousins and I all aspire to. Their adoration for one another was clear, and I can still hear them singing together in the kitchen. I like to think that now they’re finally back together again, having a song and a dance and big knees up. We love you Nan – thank you for everything.

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Eulogy example for a friend

• How you met your friend and what your first impressions were
• What made them such a wonderful friend
• Their passions and hobbies
• Their other friends and family
• Funny stories or memorable anecdotes

I’ll never forget the first time I met [Name]. I’d just moved into our halls at uni and found him in the kitchen, wearing nothing but a towel, panicking because he’d flooded his shower on day one. I quickly realised that these kinds of mishaps followed him pretty much everywhere, from the time he turned up at the airport three weeks late for a flight, to when his dog really did eat his coursework. There was always a story with [Name].

But beneath the constant jokes, mayhem and penchant for Hawaiian shirts, [Name] had the best heart. He was a true friend who backed all of us – even when we were definitely in the wrong! [Name] was the first person who called me when my dad passed away, the most dedicated best man at 3(!) of our friends’ weddings, and when he found [partner’s name], he became the most devoted boyfriend and fiancé. 

Anyone who knew [Name] knew how much he adored [partner’s name], how strong his bond was with his brothers, and how he loved nothing more than a hungover Sunday roast at his parents’ house. We’ll all miss him terribly, but it’s impossible not to smile when we think of him. [Name], you were a true friend. We’ll keep on making mischief in your honour.

The short eulogy examples above will have hopefully given you some inspiration on how you can structure your loved one’s funeral speech or the kinds of things you can talk about. We also wanted to share some well-known examples to give you extra ideas to work with. Here are a few that have stuck with us, and might help you too:

• Mona Simpson’s eulogy for her brother Steve Jobs
• Stacey Heale’s eulogy for her late husband Greg
• Eight-year-old Bindi Irwin’s eulogy for her dad Steve Irwin
• Kate Rothschild’s eulogy for her 15-year-old daughter Iris Goldsmith
• John Cleese’s eulogy written for George Chapman

Looking for more advice on dealing with a loss? Read our guide on what to say when someone dies . If you’re planning a funeral, our round-up of the most popular funeral songs will also be useful to you.

For more advice and to connect with others who share a similar experience of loss, download the Untangle Grief app .

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eulogy examples for father

What can i say at my dad’s funeral.

Whatever age you are, losing a father you loved is heartbreaking. And writing a eulogy to him may be met by bouts of anxiety, panic and distress. You want to do right by him, and yet, you are too grieved and have no idea where to start. Below we have outlined some ideas for taking on this task and have also produced some eulogy examples to help inspire you and your eulogy for your Dad.

Tribute To Dad At Funeral

This funeral tribute from a son to his dad is a blend of authenticity, wit, and respect.   

Eulogy Transcript

Wow! A lot of people out there! Seeing all these faces, some of them familiar others not as much, it just makes me realize how much my dad was loved. It also kinda makes you remember how much he loved a good party. If he could see first-hand, everybody that came here for him today… I know he’d be thrilled. So I want to thank you all on his behalf for coming out, honouring his memory, and just being here with us today. It really means a lot to me. It means a lot to my mom and our extended family that’s here with us. Thank you. Unfortunately for all of you though I have inherited my dad’s ability to babble. So I don’t have to worry because I got you to stay till at least eight o’clock. Okay, so, I’m going to be that bad. I promise I’ll spare you from me. I will keep it brief but I really could probably go on for hours with everything that dad and I had together. On that note, those of you who knew me and my father personally, you knew the kind of great relationship we had but it wasn’t always like that. In fact, I think it started probably how most teenage boys and their fathers start out a little something like this. I swear there were a couple of years during my teens when dad and I must have butted heads just about everything. Now I mentioned this primarily because most of you out here in the crowd have to have had a good enough relationship with my dad. He was a very opinionated man, to put it politely. He voiced his opinion pretty regularly — a quality I also inherited from him. However, the element with my dad that I don’t think anybody could argue is if he had a point. If there was logic behind what he was saying, you just couldn’t fight it there’s no way of going against it and, as a kid, I always kind of kept it in the back of my mind. It was that quality really that led him to become my best friend and my confidant in my grown adult life. I went to him for anything when he had you been around. When I was 18-year old when I truly made that realization and from that point on I maintained a very close, very steady relationship with him. When I moved out to Pennsylvania five years ago, we talked over the phone almost every single day. It didn’t matter what it was that day at work gave him a call. There was a little success in my life. I sent him a text message. He knew everything that was going on. On that note, he always had something to say. He always had something, usually a positive motivational tone. If it was something that I was talking about that was negative, he had a spin on it to keep me going and truthfully that’s going to be the biggest adjustment for me. But at the same time, one of the biggest motivating forces is that he always inspired me to do better than my best. He was always so openly proud of my accomplishments and kept pushing me to do more and more, but not in any sort of negative forceful sense of course. It was always something that was very uplifting and inspirational to me and in having done that I think he passed something on to me that’s a very difficult thing to do. He got me ready to be a strong, upstanding man who can lead a good quality life in the world. And I don’t even know he might have been unwittingly on his part just might have been doing his thing, but he really imparted that to me. Going forward from today a I’m going to just keep on pushing his memory, keep on getting better, living a good name, keeping the Camaro untarnished doesn’t work. And you know to that end that’s what I’m going to miss! I bet that he’ll be looking down and seeing it, I would have loved to have as we all would. More years, more time but you know that gets him to be a little bit of a selfish end. He’s in a great place now, very much at peace and you know he is happy to be looking down on all of us today. So, goodbye, dad. I’m going to miss you. I love you and thank everybody for coming here today, listening to me babble for a few minutes…

Children Give Tearful Eulogy At Their Fathers Funeral

Children get emotional when paying their final tribute to their police officer father who died in line of duty.

Let us tell you about our dad Michael Langsdorf. He was a very caring and extremely loyal person. He was a loving and wonderful father. Thoughtful, sensitive and dedicated describe him well. He always had our back and was our best friend. Funny, adventuresome and to be very particular – he was a great chef and creative storyteller. He would drop anything at the drop of a dime to accommodate a friend’s need or want, no matter how big or small. They say never to meet your heroes because you will end up disappointed. Well, I had the chance to be raised by mine and he never disappointed me. He taught me that a life of rescuing defending and serving is the only life worth living. We love you, dad! “My father would end every email with a signature quote that read you’ve never lived until you’ve almost died for those.” It was by an unknown Marine. Our dad was the most important person in our lives. He was the light of a party, and a great chef but most importantly he was an amazing father. He had a huge impact on so many people. And even though he was tough, he had the biggest heart. I think we all wish he could have made it through this one, so that we could hear him tell this story at every dinner and family event. We love and miss him every minute of the day.

Short Eulogy For Father

This eulogy might be short but the thing that the son did to keep his father’s memory alive is something to remember.

As you can imagine, I like any son who wants to remember the best of my father but it wasn’t anything particularly press worthy. He did not fight in winning war, he never met the president, he never won state championship, but what my father did was keeping his promises, particularly to me and for my brother Greg. My father said it was going to be done. My dad was not too fond of excuses. Too often we make promises, little and big that we do not honour. I want to remember my father, the promises he kept to me, and I want you to remember the promises you have made. Many of you have expressed your condolences to me and my family. There’s anything you can do for us, there is something you can do, and there is something you should do for yourself. Make a promise in your life — the one that you have been putting off and keep it fixed like that lying man did. I want my father’s memory to help you and others, so I have a favour to ask. For all of you, I’ve created these cards and all they say out there is because I said I would. The purpose of this card is relatively simple. You have a promise. You’ve been holding off for somebody and write it on the card. You have to promise that person that you made the promise to fulfil that promise. And when you’re done, get your card back. Yesterday I left three of these cards for my father. I will not be getting them back but I will keep my word and that’s what I would do. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but it looks something like my dad and I wake up in the morning and brush my teeth. I don’t need a reminder that these cards can help remind you to keep your promises.

What is a Eulogy?

A eulogy is a speech given by someone when their loves one dies. The speech outlines the highest point in the deceased person’s life. If your nerves are acting up right now, take a deep breath, close your eyes and let your mind wander. Think about all the good times you have had and all the times he had touched your life. Let your mind linger on the good times and the times that make you smile quietly. Take note of those memories that make you smile or weep with a little happiness. The memorable ones.

You can then pen down all the memorable things and memories you have had with your dad, or record them on your phone. Or if that’s too much, you can just lay back and brainstorm silently. Focus on things that made you feel connected to him and not his academic or life achievements.

how to write a eulogy for dad

It’s okay if you find yourself rambling on the first take. Let it all out, talk about everything that reminds you of your father. His favorite song, his best food, football clubs he supported or anything and your strongest memory of him. Write down what first jumps to your mind when your father’s name is mentioned and how it makes you feel.

Take yourself back to your firsts, the first time you did certain things together, the first time you went to see a particular movie or show together and how all those memories flooding back makes you feel.

If you are writing his eulogy, that means you were connected in some way. While you are thinking or just jotting down random things, think of what light you want to portray your father in. What do you wish to use and define him? Was it kindness, humor, patience, wisdom or fun-loving and just unique that defines him?

Whatever direction that you wish to go, try recalling the incidents that made your mind go that way. Was he fun-loving? Then you can think of some jokes or funny incidents that show him in that light.

Dig deep and do not be scared to explore everything. It’s ok if you are having trouble trying to decide which theme to use as your father’s eulogy. If recalling your past with him makes you cry and laugh then you might want to go with a funny man theme.

The memories that are flooding in, do they remind you of how many times you witnessed him show kindness to a loved one or stranger or you have a lot of things he said to you have changed the way you thought? If so, your theme might be both kind and wise.

Preparing a Written Eulogy

Now it’s time to do the actual writing. Some people may prefer to deliver the eulogy from memory while others from a written source. Whatever you decide is fine but bear in mind that grief makes memories unreliable, and you may get up in front of everyone and feel completely blank even if it has never happened to you before. At this point, you have a slight idea of what you want to say to celebrate your dad and have decided on a theme for your eulogy or have some thoughts scribbled down or a voice recording. So where do you start?

Organising Your Thoughts

You can organize your eulogy with ideas. If the theme was that your dad was kind and wise or a successful businessman, you may want to start by arranging those ideas in that order, the incidents of that make him what you say and a conclusion. You can also start from a to z. Start this approach by talking about his childhood, teenage years, adulthood, fatherhood in that order. Pick some stories, some memories that you think captures or summarizes what he meant to you and write about them. And remember, to tell the audience your name and relation with your father.

“My name is Jane and I am the only female child my dad had such that no matter how grown I was, I was always his little girl. No matter how far away I was, we were always a team”

It’s time to start amassing those thoughts and keeping in line with your theme. You can follow that with a clause like “My father was…” avoid using words like good or decent and go with words like what you think makes him good or decent. While mentioning life achievements is fine, focus more on his human nature and character. What captures his essence? For example, my father was an energetic man with a passion for life.

How to Make an Eulogy for Dad Funny

You can pick a tone depending on who you are, how you feel or who your father was. If he was fun and loved jokes then you might decide to write the eulogy on a lighter note with some slight jokes. Nothing heavy, you do not want to seem to be mocking the dead.

Tell a story, nothing emulates someone like a story so try to include some short stories about your time with your father or some famous passed down stories from when he was younger.

You could use poetry to express your feelings, we have a growing list of funeral poems for dads that have been sent in by our readers and contributed to be professional writers.

Mentioning Your Father’s Death

Depending on what took his life, you can talk about his death. You must not try to be too philosophical about it; death sucks and does not always have meaning. It’s ok to admit that. If he battled with an illness then you may want to mention the illness very briefly. And think of your last moments with him and what they were like or meant. If his death was sudden (all deaths are sudden, but if it was like an accident that claimed his life), then you can refer to the last time you spoke, or your last significant memory together.

It can be something small, like you went to lunch together. The little details make it more real. You can then talk about lessons learned, what being your father’s child has taught you so far. Try not to focus on regrets. Remember that love is stronger than your regret. 

How Long Should Your Dads Eulogy Be?

It’s can be very important to keep the eulogy under 10 minutes. If you are shaken up by grief, then standing up in front of a crowd for too long may make you lose your composure. Must funeral services are also time-constrained, so you want to be aware of that. Nobody is perfect and your father was no exception, but you loved him and that’s all that matters.

You can conclude by appreciating everyone present and saying how honored your father would have felt if he were there. When delivering a eulogy, try not to make any eye contact with the audience as that might break your composure. Try looking directly above everyone’s head. I am sorry for your loss. Death truly is unfortunate and unfair.

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