10 Best Eulogies That Will Move You To Tears

A eulogy is one of the most heartfelt tributes we can give to a loved one who has passed away. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the life they led, the love they shared, and the legacy they left behind. Crafting a eulogy that encapsulates these sentiments can be a challenging task, yet it’s also one of the most significant ways to honor their memory. In this post, we’ll explore the ten best eulogies that have moved people to tears and offer you helpful tips on how to write your own impactful tribute.

Understanding the Essence of a Eulogy

When writing a eulogy, you want to evoke emotions and provide comfort. To do this, it helps to remember that the goal is not just to inform but to celebrate. Each eulogy can be unique to the individual's life, personality, and the relationships they had. Here’s how you can structure a powerful eulogy:

1. Opening Remarks: Start with a warm introduction that grabs attention.
2. Life Story: Share significant moments, achievements, and anecdotes that define the person's essence.
3. Personal Touch: Include personal stories or lessons learned from the deceased.
4. Legacy: Discuss how they impacted the lives of others and the legacy they left behind.
5. Closing Remarks: End with a heartfelt message, a quote, or a poem that resonates.

Ten Moving Eulogies

Now, let’s dive into ten of the most moving eulogies delivered over the years, which stand out for their emotional depth and sincerity.

1. Barack Obama on John McCain

Barack Obama’s eulogy for John McCain at the late senator's funeral emphasized their friendship, shared values, and McCain’s dedication to service. His poignant storytelling reflected the deep respect Obama had for McCain, showcasing how their political differences never overshadowed their mutual admiration.

2. Mona Simpson for Steve Jobs

Mona Simpson’s eulogy for her brother, Steve Jobs, was deeply personal and profoundly moving. She shared intimate anecdotes, illustrating his love for family and work ethic, emphasizing his drive and passion until the very end. Her words captured the essence of a man who changed the tech world.

3. Billy Crystal on Robin Williams

Billy Crystal delivered a heartfelt eulogy for his friend Robin Williams, combining humor with profound sadness. He reflected on Williams’ generosity, infectious laughter, and the light he brought to so many. Crystal’s memories provided a glimpse into the real Robin, beyond the comedic genius.

4. Bill Clinton for Ted Kennedy

Bill Clinton’s tribute to Ted Kennedy at his funeral celebrated Kennedy’s unwavering dedication to public service and social justice. Clinton painted a picture of Kennedy as a compassionate leader who believed in helping others, making his legacy one of empathy and action.

5. Meghan Markle on Princess Diana

Meghan Markle's eulogy for her mother-in-law, Princess Diana, showcased deep admiration and love. She highlighted Diana's unwavering commitment to charity and compassion, illustrating how her legacy continues to impact lives.

6. Harlan Coben for His Father

Author Harlan Coben delivered an emotional tribute to his father that resonated with many. He shared stories of his father's resilience and strength, illustrating how his teachings shaped Coben's life and career, reminding us of the impact a father can have.

7. Oprah Winfrey on Dr. Maya Angelou

Oprah’s eulogy for her mentor Dr. Maya Angelou was a powerful reminder of Angelou’s influence. Winfrey shared moments that embodied Angelou’s wisdom, courage, and warmth, underscoring the legacy she left in inspiring others.

8. Michelle Obama for John McCain

In another beautiful tribute to John McCain, Michelle Obama emphasized his love for his country and unwavering commitment to service. She highlighted his courage and dedication, reminding everyone of the importance of unity.

9. George W. Bush on Barbara Bush

George W. Bush’s touching eulogy for his mother, Barbara Bush, was filled with love and admiration. He spoke about her strength, wit, and unconditional support, showing the deep bond they shared as mother and son.

10. Kevin Spacey for John F. Kennedy Jr.

Kevin Spacey’s eulogy for John F. Kennedy Jr. reflected on their friendship and Spacey’s admiration for Kennedy. He shared personal memories that highlighted Kennedy's charm and warmth, emphasizing his legacy of service and kindness.

Crafting Your Own Eulogy: Tips and Techniques

To create a memorable eulogy, consider the following tips:

Begin with a Strong Opening

Start with an attention-grabbing statement or quote that sets the tone. This could be a memorable quote from the deceased or an anecdote that encapsulates their spirit.

Personalize Your Stories

Share stories that capture the essence of who they were. Aim for a mix of humor, love, and profound moments. These stories can help connect the audience to the life being celebrated.

Practice Makes Perfect

Rehearse your eulogy multiple times. This will help you become comfortable with the flow and pacing, allowing your emotions to shine without overwhelming you.

Be Genuine and Sincere

Authenticity resonates deeply in a eulogy. Speak from the heart, and don’t be afraid to express your feelings, whether it’s sadness, joy, or laughter.

Keep It Short and Sweet

Aim for about 5-10 minutes, depending on the setting. Focus on the highlights and key attributes of the person's life to ensure you keep the audience engaged.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Overwhelmed by Emotions: It’s completely normal to feel emotional. Take deep breaths, and if needed, pause to gather yourself during your speech.

• Lack of Ideas: If you're struggling to find stories or sentiments to share, consider asking close friends or family members for their favorite memories.

• Lengthy Eulogy: To avoid rambling, write down key points and practice sticking to them, ensuring your eulogy stays impactful without dragging on.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How long should a eulogy be?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>A good length for a eulogy is between 5 to 10 minutes. This gives you enough time to share meaningful stories without losing the audience's attention.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I include humor in a eulogy?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes! Including light-hearted anecdotes can be a great way to celebrate the person's life and bring smiles amid sorrow.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What if I get too emotional while speaking?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>It’s natural to feel overwhelmed. If you need to pause and collect yourself, take a moment before continuing. It's okay to show your emotions.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Should I write my eulogy in advance?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Absolutely! Writing it in advance gives you time to reflect and refine your thoughts, making the delivery more comfortable.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I read my eulogy from a paper?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, reading from a paper is completely acceptable. Many people find it helps to ease nerves and ensures they cover all important points.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Reflecting on these ten eulogies and the emotions they evoked can help guide you in your own journey of remembrance. Each of these tributes reflects not only the lives of those they honored but also the emotional connections we share as humans. Writing a eulogy can be daunting, but remember that it is an expression of love and respect. It’s your chance to share stories that will be remembered long after the words are spoken. Embrace this opportunity to honor the legacy of your loved one.

<p class="pro-note">😊Pro Tip: Keep your eulogy focused on the positive impacts your loved one had on your life and the lives of others for a heartfelt tribute.</p>