Free Eulogy Writing Checklist: Your Guide to Crafting a Heartfelt Tribute

Writing a eulogy is a profound and often challenging task. It's an opportunity to honour a loved one's memory, celebrate their life, and provide comfort to those mourning. To help you navigate this process, we've created a comprehensive eulogy writing checklist. This free resource will guide you step-by-step through crafting a meaningful and personal tribute.

Why Use a Checklist?

A checklist serves as a roadmap, ensuring you don't overlook important aspects of eulogy writing. It can help you:

Organise your thoughts and memories
Structure your eulogy effectively
Include all essential elements
Manage your time efficiently
Reduce stress during an emotional period

The Eulogy Writing Checklist

1. Gather Information

Collect basic biographical information (birth date, significant dates, etc.)

List major life events and achievements

Note hobbies, interests, and passions

Gather funny or heartwarming anecdotes

Ask family and friends for their memories and stories

2. Choose a Structure

Decide on a chronological or thematic approach

Outline your eulogy's main sections

Determine the tone (formal, casual, humorous, etc.)

3. Write the Introduction

Introduce yourself and your relationship to the deceased

Express gratitude to attendees

Set the tone for the eulogy

4. Craft the Body

Share 2-3 significant stories or memories

Highlight the deceased's character traits and values

Discuss their impact on family, friends, and community

Include quotes or sayings that were meaningful to them

5. Create a Meaningful Conclusion

Summarise the person's legacy

Offer words of comfort or hope

Include a final farewell or tribute

6. Edit and Refine

Read your eulogy aloud

Check for appropriate length (typically 3-5 minutes)

Ensure a consistent tone throughout

Remove any unnecessary or repetitive information

7. Practice Delivery

Rehearse your eulogy several times

Time your delivery

Identify places to pause or emphasise

Prepare emotionally for delivery

8. Final Preparations

Print a clear, large-font copy of your eulogy

Consider bringing a backup copy

Have tissues on hand

Arrange for someone to be your backup if needed

How to Use This Checklist

Work through each section at your own pace.
Print & Tick off items as you complete them.
Use the checklist alongside our How to Write a Eulogy guide for more detailed advice.

Remember, this checklist is a guide, not a rigid set of rules. Feel free to adapt it to your needs and the unique life you're honouring.

Additional Resources

To further support you in this process, consider using our:

Personalised Support

For those seeking more personalised assistance, our Funeral Speech AI tool can help you craft a unique and heartfelt eulogy. It guides you through the writing process, offering suggestions and helping you organise your thoughts and memories.

Conclusion

Writing a eulogy is an act of love and remembrance. This checklist is designed to make the process more manageable, allowing you to focus on what truly matters - honouring your loved one's memory. Remember, the most impactful eulogies come from the heart. Use this checklist as a guide, but let your personal memories and emotions lead the way.

We hope this resource brings you comfort and confidence as you prepare to pay tribute to your loved one. If you need further support, don't hesitate to explore our other resources or reach out to us directly.