how to write a speech for your mother's funeral

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Eulogy writing guide, funeral speeches for a work colleague, tribute speech to dad from daughter, funeral speech writing advice, what to say at a funeral speech for a mother.

• February 24, 2024

Table of Contents

1. Express gratitude

Thoughtful eulogy composition for spiritual inspirations, crafting a legacy of heartfelt memories, voices of gratitude: client reflections, what should i focus on when giving a funeral speech for my mother, how do i start a funeral speech for my mother, what key elements should be included in a mother’s funeral speech, how long should the funeral speech be, what tone is appropriate for a mother’s funeral speech, is it okay to share personal stories and memories, can i include humor in the speech, how can i express my grief in the speech, should i mention her role outside being a mother, how do i conclude the funeral speech, can i use a poem or a quote, how do i prepare emotionally for delivering the speech, is it okay to show emotion while giving the speech, how can i personalize the speech if i wasn’t close to my mother, what should i avoid saying in the funeral speech, how can i make the speech comforting for my family, is it suitable to offer thanks to those who supported us, can i mention how my mother influenced my life, how can i acknowledge my mother’s struggles, can i encourage others to share their memories, 2. introduce yourself, 3. share personal anecdotes, 4. speak about her accomplishments, 5. reflect on her character, 6. share her impact on others, 7. offer words of comfort, 8. end with a message of love, example 1 - funeral speech for a beloved mother, example 2 - eulogy for a cherished mother, example 3 - eulogy for an admired mother, eulogy assistant: tenderly honoring spiritual connections.

Losing a mother can be an overwhelmingly painful experience. During such an emotional time, it can be difficult to find the right words to express your love and admiration for her. Crafting a funeral speech that does justice to the special bond you shared with your mother is paramount, so we're here to offer some guidance and inspiration. In this article, we'll discuss what to say in a funeral speech for your mother, and how Eulogy Assistant can help you craft a heartfelt eulogy.

Our mothers play a unique role in our lives – they are our protectors, teachers, and nurturers. Their love and sacrifices have shaped the people we've become, making it all the more difficult to say goodbye when they pass. But a funeral speech for your mother is an opportunity to pay tribute to her life and the impact she's had on those around her. By sharing your genuine, heartfelt words, you can honor her memory and bring comfort to others in their grief.

Start by thanking family, friends, and everyone who has come to pay their respects, showing appreciation for their support in this time of loss.

Introduce yourself, sharing your relationship with your mother and inviting others to feel the connection between your words and their mourning.

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Personal stories are the most powerful way to illustrate your mother's character and values. You may want to share anecdotes that show the kind of mother, friend, and person she was. By showcasing her positive attributes, you'll encourage others to remember her better days as well.

Discuss some of the triumphs and achievements that your mother experienced during her life, whether they are professional, personal, or related to her family.

Capture your mother's essence by describing her personality traits and qualities that made her special. Talk about the values and beliefs she lived by, emphasizing how these virtues were an integral part of who she was.

Your mother's life surely touched many people. Describe the positive impact she had on others, and how she made a difference within her community or circle of friends.

In a funeral speech, it's important to offer words of consolation to those who are grieving. Share any comforting memories, religious or spiritual beliefs, or simply express your understanding of the emotional pain everyone is going through.

Conclude your speech by expressing your profound love for your mother, assuring her that her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Dear family, friends, and all those gathered here today,

As we come together in this solemn moment, we are united not only by our grief but also by our love and respect for a truly remarkable woman – my mother, [Mother's Name]. In the tapestry of our lives, she was the brightest thread, weaving love, strength, and compassion into the fabric of our family. Today, as we bid her farewell, I find solace in celebrating her life and the indelible legacy she leaves behind.

[Mother's Name] was born in [birth year], a time of great change and hope. From her early years, she exhibited a resilience and a zest for life that would define her. Her childhood, filled with both joys and challenges, shaped her into the woman we all came to know and love. She was a beacon of light, a source of unwavering support, and a reservoir of wisdom.

As a mother, [Mother's Name] was unparalleled. Her love for us, her children, knew no bounds. It was a love that was both gentle and fierce, a love that comforted us in times of sorrow and propelled us forward in times of doubt. She was our first teacher, our confidante, and our guiding star. Her lessons were not just in the words she spoke but in the life she lived – a life of grace, dignity, and unwavering courage.

[Mother's Name] had a remarkable ability to find joy in the simplest things. Her laughter was contagious, her smile could light up the darkest room, and her presence brought peace and warmth. She taught us the value of kindness, the importance of honesty, and the power of a positive outlook. Her philosophy was simple yet profound – to live life with an open heart and to treat others with empathy and respect.

Her strength was not just in the face of life’s joys but also its adversities. [Mother's Name] faced challenges with a resilience that was inspiring. Whether it was personal struggles, health battles, or the everyday trials of life, she faced them with a grace and fortitude that left us in awe. She was our rock, steadfast and immovable, always there to lean on, always there to draw strength from.

In her relationships with family and friends, [Mother's Name] was a pillar of love and loyalty. Her dedication to her family was her most defining trait. As a wife, she was a partner in every sense of the word, sharing in the joys and burdens of life with an unwavering commitment. As a grandmother, her joy and love multiplied, showering her grandchildren with affection and wisdom.

Professionally, [Mother's Name] [mention her career briefly if applicable]. Her work ethic, integrity, and compassion were not just evident in her profession but were also qualities she instilled in us. She believed in the dignity of work and the importance of contributing positively to the world around her.

[Mother's Name] also had a passion for [mention any hobbies or interests]. These interests were not just pastimes; they were extensions of her love for life and her quest for learning and growth. The stories and experiences she shared about these passions added richness and color to the tapestry of her life.

As we say goodbye to [Mother's Name], let us remember that her spirit, her love, and her teachings remain with us. She lives on in our memories, in the love she shared, and in the lives she touched. Her legacy is not one of material things, but one of love, resilience, and the beauty of a life well-lived.

To [Mother's Name], my beloved mother, thank you for the endless love, the invaluable lessons, and the precious memories. Your life was a gift to us, a gift that we will forever cherish. You may have left this world, but you will forever remain in our hearts.

Rest in peace, dear mother. You were loved beyond measure and will be missed beyond words.

Distinguished guests, beloved family, and dear friends,

We gather here today to pay homage to a remarkable woman, my mother, [Mother's Name]. As I stand before you, my heart is laden with sorrow yet filled with gratitude for the privilege of calling her my mother. In her, we found not just a parent but a mentor, a guiding light, and a source of unconditional love.

Born in [birth year], [Mother's Name] entered this world bringing joy and hope to those around her. Her childhood, rich with stories and adventures, was a prelude to the extraordinary life she would lead. She grew up embodying values like resilience, compassion, and integrity - values that she would later instill in her own family.

[Mother's Name] had an infectious zest for life. Her laughter could fill a room with warmth, and her smile was a source of comfort and happiness. She had the rare ability to find beauty and joy in the ordinary, turning everyday moments into cherished memories. Her optimistic outlook was a beacon for us, especially in times of hardship.

As a mother, she was unparalleled. She raised us with a balance of discipline and tenderness, teaching us the importance of kindness, hard work, and empathy. Her wisdom was our north star, guiding us through life's complexities. [Mother's Name] was always our biggest cheerleader, celebrating our victories with joy and supporting us through our challenges with unwavering faith and love.

Her love extended beyond the confines of our home. [Mother's Name] was a pillar in her community, always ready to lend a helping hand. Whether it was through her volunteer work, her involvement in community groups, or simply being a friend to those in need, she embodied the spirit of selflessness and generosity.

In her professional life, [Mother's Name] [briefly mention her career, if applicable]. She approached her work with the same dedication and passion that she did everything else in her life. Her colleagues respected her not just for her professional acumen but for her ability to inspire and uplift those around her.

[Mother's Name] also had a love for [mention any hobbies or interests], and it was in these pursuits that her spirit shone brightly. These passions were a testament to her belief in living a full and balanced life. She often said, [include a favorite saying or piece of advice], a phrase that encapsulated her approach to life.

In her final days, [Mother's Name] faced her illness with characteristic grace and courage. Her concern was always for others, even as she battled her own challenges. Her resilience in the face of adversity was a final, powerful lesson to us all - a lesson in dignity, strength, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

As we bid farewell to [Mother's Name], let us carry her legacy forward. Let us honor her memory by living our lives with the same compassion, integrity, and love that she demonstrated every day. Her physical presence will be dearly missed, but her spirit and the impact she made on our lives will forever remain.

To [Mother's Name], my dear mother, thank you for the love you showered upon us, for the lessons you taught, and for the beautiful life you shared with us. You were the heart of our family, a guiding light in our lives, and your memory will forever be a treasure in our hearts.

Rest in peace, beloved mother. You were cherished in life and will be honored in memory.

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed family members, and treasured friends,

Today, we gather to honor and remember a woman of extraordinary warmth, strength, and grace – my beloved mother, [Mother's Name]. In the wake of her passing, we find ourselves enveloped in a profound sense of loss, yet amidst this sorrow, we also find ourselves reflecting on the incredible life she led and the indelible legacy she leaves behind.

Born in [birth year], [Mother's Name] entered this world as a beacon of light and hope. Her early years, marked by joy, laughter, and the nurturing warmth of a loving family, shaped the compassionate, resilient, and vivacious woman she would become. She was the embodiment of love in action, touching the lives of everyone she met with her generosity, empathy, and unwavering kindness.

[Mother's Name]'s journey through life was a testament to her strength of character and her unwavering commitment to her values. She approached every challenge with a rare blend of determination and grace, teaching us, by example, the true meaning of resilience. Her ability to face life's trials with optimism and courage was not just inspiring; it was transformative.

As a mother, [Mother's Name] was incomparable. Her love for her children was boundless and unconditional. She was our first teacher, our confidante, and our guiding star. Her lessons went beyond words; they were woven into the fabric of our daily lives. She taught us the importance of kindness, the value of hard work, and the irreplaceable joy of family. Her wisdom, her laughter, and her unwavering support were the cornerstones of our home.

Her influence extended beyond the confines of our family. [Mother's Name] was a pillar of her community, always ready to extend a helping hand, offer a word of comfort, or share in a moment of celebration. She believed in the power of community, in the strength of coming together for a common good, and she lived this belief every day through her actions and interactions.

In her professional life, [Mother's Name] [mention her career briefly if applicable]. She tackled her professional responsibilities with the same passion and dedication that she devoted to every aspect of her life. Her colleagues admired her not just for her skills and accomplishments but for her ability to uplift and inspire those around her.

[Mother's Name] also found joy in [mention her hobbies or interests], where she expressed her creativity, zest for life, and love for learning new things. These passions were reflections of her vibrant spirit – a spirit that saw every day as an opportunity to explore, grow, and savor the beauty of life.

As we navigated the difficult journey of her illness, [Mother's Name]'s strength never wavered. She faced each day with dignity and a quiet bravery that spoke volumes of her inner fortitude. Her concern for us, even in her moments of pain, was a testament to her selfless love and the depth of her character.

In saying goodbye to [Mother's Name], we honor her life by remembering not just what she did, but who she was. Her legacy is not only in the lessons she taught us or the love she gave so freely. It lives in the way she made us feel – valued, loved, and capable of overcoming any obstacle. It lives in the countless lives she touched, the community she helped build, and the family she so dearly loved.

To [Mother's Name], my extraordinary mother, thank you for the laughter, the wisdom, and the unconditional love. You were the heart of our family, a beacon of light in our lives, and a source of endless inspiration. Your spirit will forever guide us, and your memory will always be a treasure in our hearts.

In the moments of quiet reflection before a final adieu, expressing the depth of your emotions in words can feel as delicate as sketching the first light of dawn. Writing a eulogy for a spiritual inspiration is a deeply personal undertaking, intertwining heartfelt respect with true emotional depth. Eulogy Assistant is here to guide you in this reverential task, skillfully blending homage with heartfelt narrative, transforming cherished memories into enduring tributes.

Our team, specializing in the art of empathetic eulogy writing, is committed to helping you craft a eulogy that resonates with the gentle yet profound influence of your spiritual inspiration. Eulogy Assistant is not just a service; it’s a partnership, offering warm guidance and understanding as you navigate this journey of homage and remembrance.

At Eulogy Assistant , we value the power of collaboration in creating an eulogy that truly speaks to the heart. By joining hands with us, your journey involves intertwining your personal reflections and heartfelt stories with our expertise, resulting in a tribute that honors respectfully and connects deeply.

Our approach is centered on compassionate communication and shared creativity. Your personal experiences and insights are vital in painting the narrative of your spiritual inspiration's life and legacy. This process goes beyond mere recounting of their teachings; it's about encapsulating the essence of the profound connections they established and the impact they made.

Together, we aim to create a narrative that embodies the spirit of your spiritual inspiration – a story that extends beyond standard eulogies, reaching into realms of deep respect, personal connection, and heartfelt sentiment. Our collaborative work crafts the eulogy into a harmonious collection of words, reflecting the respect and love inspired by the spiritual inspiration.

The essence of our service is genuinely captured in the reflections of those we've assisted. These honest accounts of gratitude and appreciation from individuals who sought our guidance are the sincerest testament to our dedication.

"Facing the challenge of honoring my spiritual inspiration, Eulogy Assistant was a guiding force, helping me craft a tribute that truly reflected their wisdom and impact," Johnathan reflects, who found solace in our partnership.

Emily shares her experience, "The caring and skilled guidance from Eulogy Assistant was a source of comfort in my time of grief. They assisted me in creating a eulogy that wasn’t just words but a profound tribute, resonating deeply with everyone who admired our spiritual mentor."

These testimonials underscore our commitment to creating eulogies that are heartfelt expressions of honor, respect, and enduring remembrance. We are honored to be part of your journey, celebrating the unique legacies of those who have profoundly influenced our lives and crafting eulogies that serve as lasting tributes to their spiritual essence.

Join us in creating narratives that are deeply personal, respectful, and truly capture the spirit of the spiritual inspirations who have left an indelible mark on our lives.

Focus on her life, her character, the impact she had on those around her, and the loving memories you shared. Highlight her role as a mother and the values she stood for.

Begin with a personal introduction and a fond memory or a significant aspect of her character. It sets a heartfelt tone for the rest of the speech.

Include elements like her life story, personal anecdotes, her role in the family, the lessons she taught, and the legacy she leaves behind.

Aim for a duration of 5 to 10 minutes. This gives enough time to meaningfully cover important aspects of her life without being overly lengthy.

The tone should be respectful, loving, and reflective. While it's a somber occasion, it's also a celebration of her life and the love she shared.

Yes, personal stories and memories that highlight her character, love, and influence on your life and others are appropriate and can be very touching.

If it reflects your mother’s personality and your relationship with her, light-hearted humor can be included. Ensure it’s respectful and in good taste.

Express your grief by sharing your feelings about her loss but balance it with the celebration of her life and the positive memories you shared.

If she had significant roles outside being a mother, like her professional achievements or community involvement, it’s appropriate to mention these.

Conclude with a final sentiment of love, a comforting message, or a reflection that honors her memory and the impact she had on your life.

Including a meaningful poem or quote can add depth to the speech, especially if it resonates with her personality or life philosophy.

Prepare by reflecting on your feelings, practicing the speech, and focusing on the purpose of celebrating her life and legacy.

Showing emotion is natural and acceptable. It reflects the depth of your relationship and can be comforting to others who are grieving.

Focus on the positive aspects you know about her, the influence she had on others, and general qualities admired in a mother.

Avoid controversial topics, personal grievances, or anything that might be seen as disrespectful to her memory or the audience.

Acknowledge the shared loss, celebrate the life lived, and provide a message of hope or continuity for the family.

Yes, offering thanks to those who provided support during her illness or after her passing is a kind and suitable gesture.

Absolutely. Discussing how she influenced and shaped your life is a powerful way to honor her and express your gratitude.

If relevant, you can acknowledge her struggles by focusing on her strength, resilience, and the lessons learned from those challenges.

Encouraging others to share their memories can be a beautiful way to collectively honor her and can provide comfort to everyone present.

Looking For Examples? Here Are Some of The Best Eulogies

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Memorable Eulogy Samples for a Beloved Mother

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Writing a beautiful eulogy for your mother can take some time and patience, but it is such a special way to honor her life. Using tips and guidelines for writing a eulogy for your mother can help make the process a bit easier to manage.

What Do You Say in a Eulogy for Your Mother?

Short eulogy examples can be used as a template to help you get started, pick a general theme, and figure out what tone works best for your style. Keep in mind if you're not a fan of public speaking, it's a good idea to keep your speech on the shorter side, as emotions may run high on the day of the funeral, memorial, or celebration of life service. A eulogy should start by introducing yourself and then end with final thoughts about your mom. Fill in the middle with information personalized your mom, her life, and your relationship.

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Eulogy for Mother With a Degenerative Illness

If your mother passed away due to a degenerative illness such as dementia or cancer, you may or may not wish to include information about her experience with this illness in your speech. If you would like to include information abut your mother's experience with a degenerative illness, you may mention it briefly after the introduction, or before closing, but be sure not to solely focus on this. Examples include:

• "As many of you know, (insert deceased individual's name) was diagnosed with (insert illness) back in (insert date). Despite this diagnosis, her passion for life and her contagious curiosity was no different. She was and will continue to be an inspiration to us all for living life to the fullest and not letting anything get in her way."
• "(Insert deceased individual's name) kept her diagnosis of (insert name of illness) quite private. She never wanted to burden anyone with feeling like they had to take care of her, especially on her more challenging days. Her selflessness didn't just show up after her diagnosis- she has been this way her whole life, putting others first and wanting to be her family and friends' rock."

Eulogy for Mother With Mental Health Disorder

Similar to a eulogy for a mother who had a degenerative illness, it is up to you to decide whether you'd like to disclose your mother's mental health diagnosis. Be sure if you do include the diagnosis, that it is there for a purpose, not just to mention it. Examples include:

• "As some of you may know, (insert deceased individual's name) had a diagnosis of (insert diagnosis). Despite the challenges that this diagnosis created for her, she always persevered and continued to show her family that prioritizing self-care and mental wellbeing are significant aspects of creating a happy life. I will always hear her voice when it's time for me to check in with my own emotional well-being.We honor her memory today and every day."
• "My mom has had a diagnosis of (insert diagnosis) for as long as I can remember. Even though this has brought significant challenges her way, she always prioritized taking care of herself so she could be there for her family. Looking back, I am only now beginning to understand just how much she had to overcome to be the mother she was to us."

After mentioning the diagnosis, you can go into a more detailed story that illustrates who your mother was as a person. Personal anecdotes make a eulogy speech that much more meaningful and special.

Religious Eulogy for Mother

If your mother practiced a certain religion, or had a religious saying that was meaningful to her, you can consider adding it to your eulogy speech. You can do so by weaving in the saying or certain beliefs into the overarching theme of your speech. Examples of religious eulogies include:

• "(Insert deceased individual's name) lived her life with a passion for love and acceptance of all people. She often would say (insert religious belief or saying) and she exemplified this by (insert specific example of her doing so). I am so grateful to have had her as such an incredible example of kindness, honesty, and strength."
• "Religion has always been a huge part of (insert deceased individual's name) life. When any of us were experiencing a difficult moment in life, she tended to say, (insert religious saying). Through this saying, she taught us about strength and believing in ourselves."

Eulogy for a Difficult Mother

If you had an estranged or strained relationship with your mother, you will still be able to give a beautiful eulogy speech if you feel comfortable doing so. Try to focus on the positive characteristics of her and/or obstacles that she overcame. While you don't need to delve into the nitty gritty of your relationship, you can still capture positive aspects of her spirit in your words. You can consider saying:

• "While my mother and I didn't have the closest relationship, I always admired her belief in herself and her ability to prioritize her needs. (Insert deceased individual's name) overcame a lot of hardship and poured herself into becoming who she wanted to be. I am grateful for the time we spent together."
• "As many of you are aware of, my mother and I weren't as close as I wished we had been. Although we had our differences, I learned some incredible lessons from her about patience, strength, and respect. (Insert deceased individual's name) experienced many challenges in life and faced them head on with incredible strength and determination."

If you are struggling to come up with positive attributes, you can focus on her life chronologically and mention relationships that were important to her, her accomplishments, her hobbies, and her career.

Eulogy From a Son or Daughter

A eulogy written by a mother's son or daughter can be such a special tribute. An example of a eulogy from a son or daughter:

• "(Insert deceased individual's name) was the kindest, most loving person I've ever known. She mothered everyone, so much so that friends would often call her mom. She took this as a compliment and never shied away from being there for others who needed support in one way or another. As her (daughter or son), I feel like I grew up with the most incredible role model who taught me to always be myself and to always push myself to learn more. I will miss her smile, her laugh, her sage advice, and her bubbly personality. I know all of us will miss her famous chocolate cake. Thank you again for being her today to honor her memory. She loved all of you and her memory will live on in all of us."

Eulogy for a Mother-in-Law

Examples of speeches for a mother-in-law include:

• "There's a misconception that your in-laws are going to be trouble. That couldn't be further from the truth when it came to (insert deceased individual's name). She welcomed me with open arms and I grew fond of her extremely early on in our relationship. We ended up bonding over our love of animals and would spend our time hiking with our dogs and volunteering at local shelters together. While I don't feel ready to say goodbye, I know how lucky I am to have known her for the limited amount of time that I did. I miss her and so wish I got the privilege of spending more time with her."
• "(Insert deceased individual's name) was a kind, free-spirited individual who loved to sing, dance, and cook amazing meals. She had a passion for many things, but most of all she had a passion for being a mom. I've watched her for the last several years be the most incredible mom to her children and when I came into the picture, she made an effort to make me feel welcome in her family right away. I have learned so many lessons from her about following your dreams and loving with all of your heart. I will miss her incredible presence and feel honored to be a part of her family."

Eulogy for a Step Mom

Eulogy examples for a step mom include:

• "While we weren't technically related, I always felt like (insert deceased individual's name) was an incredible mother figure for me and my siblings. She was kind, soft-spoken, and had a deep love of reading. She loved to sit around and chat with us, always curious about not only our days, but our hopes and dreams. She was my guiding light through challenging moments and I will forever miss her gentle spirit."
• "(Insert deceased individual's name) didn't come into my life until I was an adult, but I'm so happy she did. She was an incredible person who made a tremendous effort to get to know our family and seemed to fit in perfectly. She always made us laugh and was quick to offer support during difficult times. Her love of music was contagious, and she was constantly composing the most beautiful songs. I will miss her every day, but I feel so lucky to have had time with her."

How to Write a Eulogy for Your Mother

Writing a eulogy can feel like an overwhelming task for some individuals and can feel even more difficult during the process of grieving. Before you begin writing the tribute for your mother , pick a time when you feel motivated to write, instead of forcing yourself to do so when you aren't feeling up to it. Keep in mind that you can ask for help writing the eulogy from friends, family members, as well as the funeral director if you get stuck.

What Should Be Included in Your Mom's Eulogy?

Eulogies will vary based on a number of factors. In general, information in the eulogy should include mentioning your mother's close friends and family, her personality, her impact on your life, and special milestones. You can also add in a meaningful anecdote or special poem to honor your mom , too.

Coping With Grief When Writing

While writing and giving the eulogy speech may help a bit with closure, the grieving process is incredibly unique and complex. Whether you had an amazing relationship with your mom, an estranged one, or a complicated one, grief can still show up and may continue to do so for months to years after the passing. Find healthy ways to cope with your grief and reach out for help immediately if you are struggling with acts of daily living and/or are having thoughts of harming yourself or others.

How Do I Write a Tribute to My Mother?

Writing a eulogy is a beautiful way to honor your mother at her funeral. Take your time as you write the eulogy and know that whatever you say in your speech will be enough.

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How to Write a Eulogy For Mother

Last Updated: September 2, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by David I. Jacobson . David I. Jacobson is the founder of Chicago Jewish Funerals, an independent Jewish owned funeral provider that evolved into two funeral homes in the Chicagoland area. With over 30 years of experience serving families, David is a leading expert on Kavod Hamet, the Jewish traditions of honoring and respecting the dead. David is an active funeral director that serves people planning and in need of funerals, lecturing to congregations, community groups, and schools extensively about the values of the Jewish funeral as well as the dying process and the value of one’s legacy.  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 290,690 times.

Writing a eulogy for your mother can be emotional and difficult, but it also gives you the opportunity to celebrate her life. Everyone at the funeral or memorial service will most likely be gracious and interested in hearing your stories and reflections. Write a eulogy for your mother by gathering and organizing the information you plan to share and writing out what you want to say.

Organizing the Content

• An obituary is a short announcement of your mother’s passing that appears in the newspaper, while an elegy is a poem or song of lament.
• A eulogy is a speech containing a tribute to your mother's life, which may contain a brief story of your mother's life. Make your eulogy tell your own story about your mother rather than cater to what everyone else is telling you to write.

• Questions you could ask yourself to help you brainstorm include, What one quality of my mother do I remember most?
• Try asking yourself, What is something my mother always used to do to comfort me?
• Once you have your list, whittle it down to stories and memories that achieve the goal you have set for the eulogy.

• Ask them questions like, What is your favorite memory of my mother?
• Another question could be, What life lessons did my mother teach you?

• For example, instead of in order of occurrence, you could group your anecdotes by type: personal memories, others’ memories, her favorite things, her influence on your life, her influence on others’ lives, and concluding with how much she will be missed before giving the conclusion.
• You might also use poems or songs performed by other family members for the body. [2] X Research source

• For example, you could open with, "Hello everyone, my name is Sam and I am Mary's son. I am honored to be sharing her eulogy with you today."
• You could end with, "Thank you for coming to honor my mother today. I know she would be so grateful."

Composing the Eulogy

• Focus on writing the way you speak. Simply reading a script to an audience can feel dry and ultra-formal, an effect you may want to avoid.
• Try writing your eulogy in a list format, leaving room for improvisation so that you are not constantly looking down at the paper.

• Keep in mind that you will likely write several revisions before coming up with a copy that you are happy with. [4] X Research source
• Ask relatives and friends to read over or listen to you read your rough drafts to help make the eulogy stronger.

• Consider the personality of your mother. Was she vibrant and energetic? Warm and loving? Think about making the tone of your eulogy match your mother’s personality.

• You will probably want to exclude negative things. If you were angry with her when she passed, forgiving her before penning the eulogy can help you focus on positive aspects.
• Stay away from trivial facts that do not contribute to the main theme of your eulogy, such as her daily habits.

• If you tend to be a perfectionist, try to lower your expectations by imagining how you would expect a sibling to do this, or another relative. Treat yourself as you would them (i.e., have compassion for mistakes).

Including Meaningful Extras

• Think about if your mother ever told you what she wanted to be remembered for, or ask others if she talked to them about this.
• If she never told anyone what she wished to be remembered for, think about the main theme of her life. What did she spend the most time doing? What did she sacrifice the most for? Is there anyone who is grateful to her for a service she performed?
• For example, your mother's favorite sayings or life philosophy, or what she said was her proudest achievement.

• Achievements can be both tangible and intangible.

• Get ideas from your friends and relatives.

Euology-Writing Help

Expert Q&A

• Remember to thank everyone for coming. You can do this at the beginning or end of your eulogy. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Be sure to practice your eulogy at least once before delivering it at the memorial service. You can do this on your own in front of a mirror, or in front of relatives to get their feedback. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Keep some water with you when you deliver your eulogy, as well as tissues. It is okay to get emotional or to stop and take a breath. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ https://www.myfarewelling.com/article/eulogy-examples
• ↑ http://www.write-out-loud.com/eulogy-write.html
• ↑ http://www.macmillandictionary.com/us/dictionary/american/legacy
• ↑ http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anecdote

About This Article

Writing a eulogy for your mother is an emotionally difficult process, but it can also be a chance to celebrate her life in your own words. Start by introducing yourself with something like “Hello everyone, my name is Sam and I’m Mary’s son. I am honored to be sharing her eulogy with you today.” Then, talk about things like your favorite memories, facts about her life, or the lessons she taught you. Finally, close the eulogy with something like “Thank you for coming to honor my mother today. I know she would be so grateful." For more tips, like how to choose the tone of your eulogy, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Eulogy examples to help you write a eulogy for a memorial service

Funeral speech examples from around the world.

By:  Susan Dugdale  

How do you begin to write a meaningful eulogy?

And how is it possible to say everything you want to about a person's entire life story in a few, very brief, minutes?

Both those questions are natural responses to having a eulogy to write for a funeral service.

Grief, together with the desire to honor your loved-one the best way you can, and the pressure of a tight timeframe, can make it feel like an almost insurmountable challenge. 

That's why reading what others have written in similar circumstances helps a great deal.

What's on this page:

Access to 70+ eulogy examples, the whys and wherefores of the collection: its background, a submission form to use if you want to contribute a eulogy and links to other useful pages on my site.

Quick links

• I want to browse and read the example eulogies in the order they have been received . (The most recent is at the top of the list.)
• I want to submit a eulogy I have written .
• I want to read specific types of eulogies : eulogies for mothers, fathers, an older brother, a dear friend...
• I want help with the eulogy writing process.

About these eulogy examples

I am fortunate to be able to make available to you a large, and growing, collection of funeral speech examples. 

They've been written by people from all over the world, who are just like you and me. They too have family and friends whom they care for deeply.

Look and you'll find examples of eulogies for mothers, fathers, grandparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins, mentors, colleagues, a close friend..., in short: loved ones.

The people who've written them have shared them to help people like yourself. Because they've been where you are now with a funeral speech to prepare, they know how it feels to be searching for inspiration, trying to find a starting point.

Some of the speeches are short. Some of them are funny. All of them are heartfelt, and they appear in the order I received them.

To see them, jump to  eulogy samples .  

Return to Top

 Help to find specific eulogy examples easily

If you're looking for an example of a eulogy for a particular kind of person, and don't want to browse your way through the chronologically ordered list below, use these links to go straight to a collection of:

• eulogies for mothers
• eulogies for  fathers
• eulogies for  sisters
• eulogies for  sons
• eulogies for  grandmothers
• eulogies for  grandfathers
• eulogies for  friends
• eulogies for  colleagues

I've grouped all the speeches I've received through this page according to their type on a new page here: sample eulogies . Whenever a eulogy is submitted, I add its link to the category it belongs to.

The story behind this collection of eulogies

It began with two funeral speeches  I had written. 

Almost as soon as I put them online, they attracted an enormous number of visitors.

It was then I realized the need for more.  

I also knew my examples would not answer everybody's needs.

The one for my sister was different in approach.

The one for my friend and next-door neighbor was not what a grieving person with a eulogy speech to write for a close family member really wanted to see. 

My two were definitely not enough! 

Offering a wider variety of funeral speeches 

To be really useful there needed to be a wider variety of funeral speeches. We needed eulogies for mothers, fathers, sons, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, colleagues, friends, people who died unexpectedly and suddenly...

And we needed them to reflect the diverse countries and faiths of the people visiting the site.

I decided to ask for more. Lo and behold, they began to arrive through my   eulogy submission form below.

Help to make writing a eulogy easier.

After you've read a few eulogy examples, and you want help to prepare your own speech you'll find it here:  how to write a good eulogy .

The article has step-by-step instructions, examples, a very useful free 15-page printable eulogy planning template to download , as well as comprehensive answers for 13 FAQs about eulogies :

• how do you start a eulogy ?
• how do you end a eulogy ?
• do you read a eulogy or memorize it?
• how do you stop from crying when you give a eulogy ?

Why do people share a deeply personal speech?

The people sending their eulogies to me to publish fully appreciate that writing a funeral speech under pressure can be a difficult, sad and lonely task - sometimes one of the hardest things they've ever done.

They know from experience having examples to read can lessen that burden. It's a good way of starting to find the right words to tell their own personal stories and share their favorite memories about a person they have loved.

Theirs is a kind and generous act, one that's been repeated over 70 times already. 

Wonderfully, some of the people who've come searching for help to write their own eulogy, have returned to share what they've written.

(Read Craig's comment below his eulogy for his Grandmother, Bertha  or Byrona's below her  eulogy for her Dad  for verification.

Both were helped by funeral speeches they found here and wanted what they had written to assist others in the same way.)

So, if you've written a eulogy...

Would you consider sharing it.

It would help others enormously.

Every day people look for tips on how to a write eulogy or to find  eulogy examples  to read. I know because I see it reflected in my website visitor statistics.

I also know because of the comments people leave under speeches.  They are so very grateful to have found a eulogy expressing how they feel.

For instance, see the comments on Eulogy for my Son , on Eulogy for my Grandmother - Bertha , or Sharon Catley's poem for her Mother,  Journey's End .   

You know how it generally is with a speech of this sort. Typically, there is not much time to prepare, and you want to get it right.

Reading what others have done helps in the best possible way.

These eulogies inspire and give people the courage to do what they need to do.

Despite our differences what we all have in common is the desire to speak about our loved ones the very best way we can. 

The more examples we have, the more likely a person is going to find a speech that resonates and meets their needs.

You too could help by submitting the eulogy you've written. It's very simple to do.

When you're ready...

PS. If you would like to share your eulogy but have privacy concerns around using your loved one's name you could use a fictional name, like Bob or Sue in place of their real one. Be assured too, that although there is the possibility that people reading your speech might wish to respond, no comment goes live without my permission.

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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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A Guide to Writing a Funeral Speech: 8 Heartfelt Examples

By: Author Camila Steinfeld

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories Writing Prompts

With the passing of a loved one comes the responsibility of making arrangements for their funeral. This includes deciding who will be saying a funeral speech at the funeral service.

Saying a funeral speech is not something that should be undertaken unprepared. It requires some forethought and planning.

A funeral is an emotional occasion and delivering a speech, unprepared, in front of the congregation is a recipe for disaster = one that will not soon be forgiven.

The ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ of a Funeral Speech

When you sit down to decide what you’re going to say in your eulogy speech, there are a few factors you need to take into consideration.

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In writing your speech , it’s important to demonstrate the personal relationship you shared with the deceased. It’s necessary that you give the congregation an insight into the person’s life as it related to your own.

If you want to relate a situation or event that occurred in the deceased’s life, do so tastefully.

Your aim is not to deliver a stand-up comedy routine, but rather, a poignant and potentially somewhat humorous view of who the deceased was and what they meant to you.

A funeral speech is difficult to deliver if you’re feeling over-emotional. You cannot afford to break down and cry in the moment.  

Eight Carefully Crafted Emails for Your Last Day at Work

That’s not to say that you cannot show your emotions and grief. But you must be able to get through the speech you have prepared.

Finally, don’t use a funeral speech as an opportunity to settle old scores or tell others about unfinished business between yourself and the deceased.

Outline: How to build a funeral speech

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Here are some examples of a funeral speech that celebrates the deceased’s life but at the same time expresses the grief of the speaker.

A Eulogy for a Mother

The last thing I imagined myself doing today was delivering the eulogy at my mother’s funeral.

Despite the fact that she was ill, and we knew her passing was inevitable, it has still come as a shock to us as a family.

My mother was a phenomenal woman who possessed reserves of strength and patience that seemed to be infinite.

We, her children, were her pride and joy; she regarded us as the greatest accomplishment of her life. That doesn’t mean that raising us was easy, nor always enjoyable.

My siblings and I gave her a lot of gray hairs along the way. But, regardless of our misdeeds, she would always find it in her heart to forgive us.

And not only that, she would have enough faith in us to believe that we would not transgress again.

One of my fondest memories of my mother is watching her sit down and relax after a long day. She worked hard at her job and came home to run her household. That meant that she had very little time to herself.

And even with the little ‘me time’ she had, she never used it for herself. She’d always be knitting or sewing or making something that we needed.

What our family lacked in money, my mother more than made up for with love.

My mother was the heart of our home, the center of our universe, and the greatest example of unconditional love we could’ve hoped to have.

A Eulogy for a Father

My father was a quiet man. He seldom said much. That’s why, when he did have something to say, we listened.

That may make him sound like he was distant, but nothing could be further from the truth.

He was always interested in what was going on in our lives and was extraordinarily proud of our achievements.

Whether it was scoring a home run in a Little League baseball game or getting a bursary for a university, he delighted in our successes.

As a child, one of the places I felt the safest was in the arms of my father. In fact, right now, that’s the place I wish I was more than anything else.

He was a hardworking man who set a great example for my siblings and me. We learned from him that, regardless of the task, it was not worth doing if you didn’t want to do it properly.

My father had an incredibly dry sense of humor. It took us a while to grasp it because, as children, we didn’t get it.

But as we grew up, we began to understand his wit and laugh at the things he said.  

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He presided over family dinners with a quiet dignity that spoke of a patriarch who took that responsibility seriously.

He was the mediator in our disputes as siblings and always took the high road, refusing to take sides.

He’s left a gap in our lives that we can’t even begin to contemplate filling.

A Funeral Speech for a Best Friend

Jennifer and I met, two gap-toothed first-grader’s, on the first day of school – ever.

Something drew us to each other though. We could never quite figure out what it was, but it’s lasted a lifetime.

As children, we would spend hours with each other without talking that much.

We just understood each other. Even if you put us on either side of a big room full of people, Jennifer and I would always find our way back to each other immediately.

We survived high school together. I’m not sure if either of us would’ve made it without the other. We laughed and cried together so many times.

There were crushes and boyfriends that caused heartache and heartbreak. But, throughout it all, we were always there for each other, no matter what – no matter how many times I needed a shoulder to cry on, Jennifer was there.

We went to different colleges after high school and the careers and lives we pursued after our studies were poles apart. We lived far away from each other and I’ll be honest, we sometimes went for long periods without talking, which I regret.

I’ll be honest, we sometimes went for long periods without talking, which I regret.

But every time we spoke or saw each other though, we picked up where we left off, and it felt like we’d never been apart.

It’s that mutual love and respect that makes me know Jennifer was the best friend I could ever have had.

A Eulogy for a Wife

I don’t know where to begin to tell you about the enormous gaping hole that Samantha’s passing has left in my life.

It feels like half of me has vanished in an instant, and I’m not sure I’ll ever feel whole again.

Samantha was an amazing woman. She had such an infectious zest for life that she could always find the humor or a silver lining of any situation, regardless of the gravity. Anything seemed possible with her attitude.

The way she attacked the obstacles she encountered with such strength and determination was inspirational.

Samantha and I met quite by accident. I walked into her office in error – and there she was: the most beautiful woman I had ever seen. She seemed to radiate some kind of magnetic attraction.  

40+ Other Ways to Say I Love You Dearly

I knew there and then that I would never be able to stay away from her, and that my life would not be complete without her in it. She didn’t make it easy.

I had to ask her out several times before she agreed. But when I look back on the life we’ve shared, it was more than worth it.

Our children were the center of Samantha’s world. She took her role as a mother seriously and did an amazing job of raising them to be the adults they are today.

I wish I’d had more time with her, I really do. But I will treasure the years I had with her in my heart for the rest of my life.

A Funeral Speech for a Husband

The thing that made me fall in love with Stephen was his sense of humor. He always made me laugh, even when all I wanted to do was cry.

Whenever I’d get angry or upset with him – for whatever reason – I’d always wind up laughing because he could always make me see the funny side of it.

As a husband, Stephen was supportive of everything I did.

Like when I decided that the patio needed to be refurbished. He was right by my side working so hard to help me, even though I’m sure the last thing he felt like doing was revamping the patio.

In fact, I know he would have preferred to spend his weekend resting and relaxing. But he never let me down. Tired or not, he’d help me with all my ‘projects’.

Stephen endeared himself to me even more when we became parents. He was so proud to be a father and a wonderfully hands-on partner.

I couldn’t have asked for a better father for my children. In fact, there were times I had to ask him to be a bit more hands-off so that I could get to my babies!

The lives of our children and their achievements gave Stephen an enormous amount of satisfaction.

He supported them every step of the way. He picked them up when they fell or failed.

He encouraged them to keep going. And he showed them how to be the resilient adults they have become.

My life was better that I could have ever imagined, and fuller that I ever dreamed because of Stephen’s presence by my side.

A Eulogy for a brother

I’m not going to stand up here and tell you that it was all sunshine and roses between David and myself growing up.

There were times I wished he wasn’t my brother. And I’m sure there were times he wished I wasn’t his sister.

We seemed to have a knack for pushing each other’s buttons, sometimes with some amusing consequences, sometimes not.

From the outset, David stood out as an individual. He did not march to the beat of society’s drum. He had his own internal drumbeat, and he remained committed to it.

One of my favorite memories of David is the one-and-only time my mother asked him to water her indoor plants. True to form, David came up with a plan to make the job easier.

He brought the hose and sprinkler indoors and turned it on. I’ll never forget the look on my mother’s face and the mischievous grin on David’s.

As we grew older, I began to see David for what he truly was. He was a caring brother who’d do anything to protect me.

He let me cry on his shoulder when I went through my first break-up. He was the only one who understood my hurt and confusion when our parents divorced.

David was a loyal and kind person who’d never let you down.

He’d have given anyone the shirt off his back. I’m proud to have called this incredibly special man my brother.

A Funeral Speech for a Sister

My sister Janet never met a challenge she didn’t conquer.

Even as a baby, she showed an exceptional amount of determination. She would turn her mind to an obstacle and work on it until she’d overcome it.

Of course, she drove me crazy. Having a little sister who wanted to tag along was, at times, infuriating.

She would go through the things in my room and leave a mess. When she was about ten years old, she got into my makeup drawer and went completely overboard.

When I caught her, she had rainbow-colored eyelids, forehead and cheeks. Her lips and teeth were full of lipstick, and there was mascara everywhere. I was furious at the time. When she saw how angry I was, she began to cry.

Anytime she’d open those beautiful big brown eyes of hers, silently reminding me that she was my flesh and blood, I couldn’t stay angry with her.

She’d open those beautiful big brown eyes and remind me that she was my flesh and blood. And I couldn’t stay angry with her.

Janet was an exemplary student. She had an incredible work ethic. If she didn’t understand something, she’d work at it until she did.

Losing my sister is so heartbreaking. She had so much left to offer the world.

But wherever she is, I know that she’s looking down on me now with those gorgeous brown eyes and that beautiful smile.

A Funeral Speech for a Close Acquaintance (e.g., a teacher, boss, coworker)

I’d like to start by offering John’s family my sincerest condolences.

Your loss is so great. You had a special man in your midst, and I’m can’t imagine the depth of loss you must feel.

John was my high school English teacher, so you might wonder why I refer to him as John and not as Mr. Robinson; it was at his insistence, as soon as I graduated.

When I first called him Mr. Robinson after graduation, he’d turned around and said, “Is my father standing behind me?” When I replied in the negative, he’d said, “Then why are you saying his name?”

John taught me so much more than English. He taught me how to think critically, and not to take things at face value.  

40 Best Examples for a Thank You Note to Teacher

He showed me the value of questioning that which was placed before me as fact. Thanks to him, I developed analytical skills that I continue to use today.

John’s work ethic influenced me greatly. He would always show us the value of hard work and diligence. I took those lessons to heart.

His passion for teaching English was contagious. I fell in love with the language on a different level thanks to him. He made the written word come alive in class.

He may not have known it, but John fulfilled an important role in my life. He was like a father, an uncle, and a big brother all rolled into one.

He shaped me into the man I am today. There are no words I can use to express my gratitude, which I know would disappoint John. After all, he made sure he taught us a wide vocabulary

Sample Eulogy - Mother

What can I say about my Mom?  For those of you that knew my mom, she was not only the life of the party but often the reason for the party.  She use to always say to us "Don't be so serious, life is too short, just have fun". In her late 30's, Mom was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.  As some of you may know, Parkinson's disease affects the brain and muscular control of the person that has the disease.  I remember when Mom was diagnosed over 15 years ago, she was firm, gentle, hopeful, yet well aware of the way her life was changing.   There is no cure for Parkinson's disease, and over the years that followed her diagnosis, I admired her spirit and the way she woke up each day, drove us kids to school, and was standing at the door smiling when we got home from school.

Over the last few years, we all saw how her health deteriorate.  Her spirit of fun, and zest for life was always present.  She insisted on being present at all family functions whether it was a graduation ceremony, a friend's wedding, Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas, or just a regular Saturday family gathering. On our last night with our mom, we spent the whole night praying with her.  She was always a spiritual person, and I know it was her faith that helped her through those last few months.  When I left my mom that night, she called my name as I walked out the door.  When I turned around, she just smiled, and I know she had made and found her peace with Life.  As I was cleaning out her house, I found this poem in her nightstand.  I wanted to share it with you all. Poem of Life Life is but a stopping place, A pause in what's to be, A resting place along the road, to sweet eternity. We all have different journeys, Different paths along the way, We all were meant to learn some things, but never meant to stay... Our destination is a place, Far greater than we know. For some the journey's quicker, For some the journey's slow. And when the journey finally ends, We'll claim a great reward, And find an everlasting peace, Together with the Lord. Author Unknown I think this poem gives us an inside look into how our mom viewed the world both in life and death.  It has provided our family with great comfort.  I know that as we all gather today, our Mom is with us.  She would not have missed the Party.

Also See: How to Write A Eulogy Eulogy Writing Checklist Sample Eulogy for Mother Sample Eulogy for Father Sample Eulogy for Grandmother Sample Eulogy for Friend

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The Remembrance Process℠ - From Grieving to Remembrance

Eulogy for a Mother

To everything there is a season, a time for every matter under heaven; a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to weep, and a time to laugh, a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to keep, and a time to cast away.

-Ecclesiastes

We are gathered here today in the memory of my mother, Martha Aquario, so that together we may acknowledge and share both our joy in the gift that her life was to us, and the pain that her passing brings. In sharing the joy and the pain together today, may we lessen the pain and remember more clearly the joy.

Martha was only 59 when she passed away unexpectedly on Monday, September 4 th in Colorado Springs. It’s hard to say goodbye. We wish that we had more time, and perhaps that during the time we had we had spent more of it together. We wish that so much of her life had not been lost to her illness, that things could have been different for her, and for us. While we know that she is at peace and that her struggles are at an end, there is pain and sadness. But even though she is gone, she has left the legacy of her love and perseverance. The ways she touched our lives will remain, and I ask you to keep those memories alive by sharing them with me and with one another.

One of the most important things in Mom’s life was gardening, and she took great pride in her flowers. Gardeners are special people. It takes patience and perseverance and a love for living things to grow a garden or a beautiful flower. Gardening is tedious and hard work, but there is something that gardeners know and experience that others sometimes do not. There is a beauty and a satisfaction in seeing the result of our labor grow and come to fruition. There is a peacefulness that can come over us as we care for and nurture the flowers and plants in a garden. In nurturing living things and helping to bring beauty and peace to the world, gardeners make a difference in the world and make their lives and the lives of those who see their gardens richer and fuller. I think that for Mom, maybe working in the garden was a way to be the careful nurturing person that she didn’t really get the chance to be.

Here is a poem by Helen Steiner Rice entitled ‘Spring Garden’

So when I looked at those flowers, I was looking at God For they bloomed in His sun and grew in His sod And each lovely flower was a “voice from above” That whispered a message of Kindness and Love For I feel in my heart, and I know you do, too, That God speaks to us all through the kind things we do And when I looked at those flowers I couldn’t help but feel That they brought heaven nearer and made God so real.

Mom is survived by the four of us and her 5 grandchildren, as well as other relatives and friends. This family, and her role as mother and grandmother, was the most important thing to Mom. This is where she drew her strength and left her legacy. Being with her family was what Martha enjoyed most of all. Her life had many obstacles, and she struggled for 20 years with a devastating illness. Yet through it all, her love and caring for her family remained her focus, and in so many, many ways, she was able to show that love to us. This perseverance through adversity is a powerful lesson for us, and I believe it is her legacy. What a wonderful lesson she gave us. Keep your priorities straight. Keep that which is most important in focus. Love and care for your family. Let them know in all the ways you can show them that you love them. Don’t let adversities or setbacks or any of the distractions of the world keep you from this most important aspect of life.

How many people in this world have it so much easier than our mom did. How many never had to face half the trouble she faced, and yet lose sight so easily of what is truly important. Many of us get distracted by insignificant things in life, many of us brood and focus on our little problems, and forget that which is most important.

But through everything Mom went through, she managed to keep her priorities straight. What can be more important than loving and showing your love for your family? How can some of us who are blessed with so much forget to be thankful to God, while somehow Mom kept her faith through all of her trials.

This is a wonderful legacy. This is a wonderful example to follow. Keep focused on what is truly important, not only when your life is easy, but when it is difficult too.

Knowing how much her family meant to her, and also how she loved to garden and grow flowers, I think it was such a special blessing that just before she passed away, Mom was able to spend a wonderful and unusually long time with us gardening at Peg’s house. The plants she nurtured and the love she showed to all of us will live on and be with us even now that she has gone to be with God.

We’ll close today with the 23 rd psalm ‘the Lord is my shepherd’, but before we do, on behalf of myself and rest of the family, I’d like to thank you all for coming here today.

The Twenty-Third Psalm

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Eulogy For My Mother

In honor of Mother’s Day, I would like to share a tribute to my mother that I read in front of friends and family at her funeral.

I sat down to write this eulogy a couple weeks before my mother died. I was in a rocking chair next to her bed, keeping her company as she dozed. Initially, I thought this would be the hardest thing I would ever write.

But the truth is, as I watched her sleep, I took comfort in knowing she was lost in a dream-world instead of plagued by her dark reality—and the words poured out of me like I too was lost in a world of dreams. Dreams that brought me back to the imaginary games we played when I was younger, hearing her cheer me on from the sidelines during my soccer games, secrets confided, lessons learned, I loves yous exchanged, her beaming pride, our best friendship, arguments that exhausted both of us, and the reconciliations that always brought us back together. And below you'll find the final result.

When I was little, my mother and I played a game before I went to sleep. The rules were simple. We would take turns saying that we loved each other more than something. For example, she would say, “I love you more than a soccer ball.” And then it was my turn. It was my task to return the sentiment by saying that I loved her more than something larger than a soccer ball. “I love you more than the kitchen table.” And so on. We would continue in this vein until the game was over by default with someone saying the magic words, “Well, I love you more than infinity!” When the game was over, we’d kiss goodnight, and I would sleep.

What I didn’t realize at the time was that my mother was teaching me about shapes and sizes and how to use my imagination. The game was about learning to comprehend the magnitude of my mother’s feelings for me as much as it was about being together and laughing about the goofy things we came up with—“I love you more than a tennis racket.” “Well, then I love you more than a gorilla.” And so forth.

My mom was a genius at finding games and activities I enjoyed that would teach me valuable lessons and important skills. I confronted the challenge of comprehending another enormity or type of magnitude later in my childhood when my father died. And again, my mother was there at every step along the way to make sure I was coping with the various emotional phases I went through during the process. For a while, the gravity of his death was too overwhelming and to try to contemplate what my mother went through too much. Years later, it still scared me, but I knew that I wanted to make sense of it and its effect on my mother. And then, when I was a little older, I figured it out. I felt  pride .

How incredibly strong was she? Did I know anyone stronger? She never gave up; she put her entire being into raising me, providing for me and finding a home for us at Georgetown Day School where I could learn, grow and stretch as far as I could stretch.

And this is why, when my mother was sick and most concerned about how her willingness to fight would impact me, I tried several times to convince her that those lessons had already been taught, the wisdom imparted. But she continued to worry and concern herself mostly with how I would handle this—how I would move forward after this devastating loss. The toll it would take and the tears I would cry….

Over the last 10 months, I have grown accustomed to having a sick mother and while I was in shock for several weeks after her diagnosis, I learned to be her caretaker while I was in DC, her caretaker while I was in Philadelphia, and although I doubted my strength from the beginning, I learned to have a terminally ill mother, go to class, have fun with friends and live my life.

I am writing this before her death and know that my strength and her strength will get me through this. As my mother always said to me, it’s amazing how strong you can be when you have no other choice.

There are really no words to describe my closeness with my mother. I know this because the slow, agonizing decline of the disease forces even the most optimistic and hopeful to think about and plan for this day. And as such, you start thinking about what you might say during a time like this. And after unsuccessfully putting pen to paper several times, I realized that there really are no words.

There are only feelings, indescribable feelings. Feelings that make my heart burst and my whole being melt. Because my mother was my insides. She  is  my insides. My guts. My confidence. My bravery and my strength. My sensitivity, my compassion, my loyalty and even my laughter.

She was everything. She was my mother, and she was my father.

If I had to conjure up one life lesson that she would want me to carry for the rest of my life, it is this: Seek advice from others, but always trust myself. She believed in me, and she believed that I always knew what was best for  me .

And if I had to conjure up a second lesson or personal desire of hers, it would be a plea for me to have a daughter—and for that daughter to play sports. I’m not sure Mom could’ve been any happier than when she was cheering from the sidelines at my soccer and lacrosse games.

I miss you, Mom. I will trust myself, Mom, and I will be fine. I love you more than infinity.

Eulogy Examples For Mother

How do i write a eulogy for my mother.

I don’t know if there is a deeper sense of loss than that of your Mother. The person who raised you taught you right from wrong and brought you into this world. I want to say how sorry I am for the loss you are going through and that I hope this page of text will help, in some way, to get you through writing a lovely memorial speech for your mother.

Before you start to write, I want you to know that the fact you are preparing this eulogy means that you played a huge role in your mother’s life and that she would be proud of you for putting so much thought and effort into the speech. No matter how the speech goes, what you share or don’t share will not have any effect on the lasting memory of your mother. Now is just the time to share your most wonderful memories of the women that raised you. Share what you love most about her and your most cherished memories. The best thing I can do for you is to provide some eulogy examples which I found useful to hopefully bring you some inspiration at this tough time. I have also included some tips from professional eulogy writers below. I wish you and your family only the best. If I can help anymore, please do reach out. If you would like to share your eulogy with us, to help others in the future, I would be honoured. Thank you

Tribute Ideas to a Mother at Funeral

Eulogy for mother from son.

This lovely eulogy from a son her his mother is a lovely example of how to memorialise your mothers life

Can you hear me at the back? I have to ask because we were at the wedding last week and mum was sending smoke signals from the back of the room because she couldn’t hear me….. Ministers, family, friends and to the thousands of well-wishers who in the past few days have sent their messages of condolence and sympathies, thank you for coming to pay respect to my mother, Miriam. Those of us who knew her well knew that mom was never more than a deepin’ meaningful conversation or an emotional story away from having a good ol’ cry, so as her only son you’ll understand if I shed a few myself. As I speak to you I have to begin by thanking a few people, that’s what mom would have done so I’d like to say, I want to thank the friends and family who have rallied around and given us great strength in this dark time. Your organization and your willingness to pitch in is greatly appreciated by dad and me. Monsignorakhirin for your guidance and compassionate words I know. Mom was inordinately proud of your achievements and hopeful for what your future might bring. To the calibre family for the beautiful flowers here in the church today for deer, and Eve rain and the wonderful musicians for sharing the music with us, and to my stepbrothers and your families, my cousin’s, our neighbours, to my beautiful wife, Jennifer, for stepping in at a time of crisis and keeping the show on the road. Ma’am would have been so proud and grateful to see all the family come together and muck in so thank you all. the Marines we know many people across the length and breadth of this country have their own personal experience of and relationship with, Miriam and the many versions of her that there are. the mother, the wife, the sister, the aunt, the stepmother, the mother-in-law, the friend, the colleague, the journalist, the radio host, the social commentator, the activist and the architect. Each of these versions of Marian touched us because she had great empathy and her curiosity made all these selves very genuine. the woman I knew behind all these selves, was a shy lady who was as happy reading a book in silence, as she was sitting around the dinner table in the small areas of the morning with friends, laughing, joking, singing when she could remember the words, debating the politics of the day and generally sorting out the world’s problems, one dinner party at a time. The lady who liked being in bed during a storm, listening to the wind and rain crashing against the windows with the duvet pulled up to her chin, a classy lady with soul in the truest sense. she had a razor-sharp mind, she was patient, she was compassionate and she was great company at home. the matriarch was deeply protective of her family, mom was not a strict mother luckily for me but she would let me know when I was being foolish. her own mother, my granny, was a wonderful stoic religious woman who had sent mom back to school after her Leaving Cert because she thought mom was a bit too young and probably a bit too wild for a university. the result for us was that mom gave us great freedom, she respected good efforts, she rewarded independent thinking, she believed we should continually educate ourselves. she loved to debate things just for the sport of it. she believed that respect was always deserved and not just earned, and when it was lost there was room for forgiveness. nobody is always good and nobody is always bad. one of her favourite songs was a revolution by the Beatles, in it the line “you say you want a revolution, yeah we all want to change the world.” this is the challenge that she. accepted her activism and her charity were real because she lived the problems she tried to fix. her work with the Irish Hospice Foundation and the work of friends in Ireland were fueled by her experiences with my sister Sinead and the death of her own mother. she had the courage to step up to life’s challenges publicly and reflected on them privately. mom taught me that if you want a revolution, you can start one by challenging people, by finding commonalities, and by finding within people their humanity and their capacity to improve. stand up straight, she’d say, look him in the eye and go from there. mom lived many lifetimes in her life, her legacy to me is to travel to learn to live a life that’s full of love and her spirit will live on when the next generation of her family is born next month. Jenny and I will try to raise our child to have courage, curiosity and kindness, virtues that Marian espoused. thank you ma’am, we love you and we’ll miss you terribly

Eulogy Example for Mother from Daughter

The below eulogy is an example of an adult daughter saying goodbye to her mother.

hi, I’m on Harley’s daughter Nancy. Dear friends family and pastor, today we say goodbye to my mom but we’re also here to celebrate her life because that’s what she would want for all of us here that are saddened by her passing. She had a whole life, most of you here knew her as a friend but she was also an aunt. She was a grandmother. She was a wife, a daughter, a sister and a mom. She was also known around the house as chief. So the last few days they’ve been trying to think how in the world I could possibly put into a few minutes everything that I could be to someone like that, so bear with me. First, I think I should acknowledge that she gave me life, that’s a pretty big one and forever grateful to have such a great mom. She was my first teacher, she taught me all through her life, all through my life and she taught me right up till the end what humility, dignity, poise and bravery look like she also taught me the value of a good gift together and having friends and family around and I know she’s up in heaven right now looking down and it’s very happy and very excited and pleased with all of you and her friends and I know she’s thinking this is a good one we’re here to celebrate her life her, comic wit. My mom had a way of coming up with a one-liner just when you least expected it and it was the perfect comedy one-liner. It would come out of the left field and it would have you floored and only in her way of delivery could she do it. She was a consummate entertainer and singer. A few years ago I was having a birthday party for my husband, it was one of his milestone birthdays and I asked my mom ahead of the party if she would prepare a toast for Glen and give it at the party and she said, ‘oh no I could never, but what I will do is I will prepare a song I’ll make up new lyrics to a show too and I’ll jump and sing it’ I’m not sure what was easier, but she got up and she’s singing a song that she had written that was hilarious. It was a toast to my husband and everyone there was blown away and that was her way. In fact, she’s staying at our wedding she had secretly talked to the minister and to the keyboardist at our wedding and in the middle of the service she had it all arranged, she got up and sang sunrise sunset to her daughter and her new husband it was beautiful and pretty special. Obviously, to have a mom singing that song to you, I knew in fact it was such a time that although I thought the minister will leave in the middle of the service, he stayed and that job probably pulled it together to finish the ceremony. My mom and dad were from what is called the greatest generation, they taught us, kids, that he saved with a penny earned and that if something is broke you fixed it, you repaired it, you mended it, you took the time and you put it back together. For those of you who have been to my mother’s house you know that that’s the truth, they could have remodelled their home ten times but they repaired it themselves. They still have the O’Keefe and Merritt stove that they bought when that house was built in1953. I remember my mom telling me once that my dad was so smart because when they were gone in the house he researched furnaces and the one he picked is the one that was still working, 60 years later. It was in his heart and so yes at one point my husband and I remodelled our kitchen and we were tearing out cabinets and taking out appliances then yeah it was just way too much, it was their appliances, they were still good. Nancy and I were like his mother that they’re all the green kind of brain you know we were going for four days it didn’t even matter, we essentially remodelled the kitchen and she still to this day wonders what happened to those appliances, they were so good, so new isn’t always better! She told me you can tell what they have when people spend their money and how my mom felt about appliances, she felt about her friends and family. She didn’t just throw out the appliances, you didn’t throw out a family you didn’t throw out your friends. Just because things got a little rough, she stuck around. You know she’s been a member of this church for 60 years, she’s been a member of the Assistance League and the Women’s Club at the fringe clubs and gosh I don’t even know. That was my mom, she stuck by her friends and her family so in the last few days I’ve gotten lots of heartfelt messages and I want to read to you one of the passages someone sent me because it kind of helped me get through. It said ‘ tonight when you look up don’t see the stars, think of them as porchlights welcoming your mom safely home ‘, So I share that with you because apparently she had a gig that we didn’t know about and she’s probably up there right now singing and dancing and telling her jokes. In the past few days I was going through some of her things, putting some stuff together and I found a seven-page handwritten story of her life that she had written about ten years ago and it’s so Arlene and so my mom. There are sections in it there are entertaining and there are bits and pieces in it that our song lyrics were written throughout and it was I didn’t know about it. My family didn’t know about it. It was written ten years ago so we printed out a few copies at the reception afterwards. I want to close with the way she closed because I think she would like that, so I guess to sum it all up you all good friends, sisters, wonderful family, four children, six grandchildren and a husband with married for over 50 years, this fun line from the musical carnival. “it’s been a real nice clambake Emma, sure had a real good time” So thank you for coming, thank you for loving my mom she loved all of you so much. Her daily community, so thank you. I’m not doing a very good job at celebrating her life so if anybody would like to come up and do a remembrance I would welcome you, maybe something a little more lighthearted. Thank you.

Here is another eulogy to a mother who died of breast cancer

You know, my mother was very smart. very, very smart. But she did have trouble she had some trouble with technology. she really didn’t get answering machines. she really didn’t get portable phones. and I don’t know if you’ve ever gotten a message from my mother on the answering machine, but it’s like she’s talking into a well or something. she starts out ‘this is your mother, Frances.’ well good because I thought it was my other mother. ‘well we just called to see how you were and you could almost see her trying to crawl in there and ‘and we’ll call you back, we love you very much amen’ but you know she didn’t get that you have to push the button now to get the phone to go up so if you’d listen a while longer you’d hear daddy say, ‘did you talk to him, no they weren’t there well who are you talking to no they weren’t there I left a message but I think I said amen’ next message ‘this is your mother Francis, I think I said Amen I don’t know what in the world is wrong with me, well we love you very much, amen’ I just have to tell you that like everyone before her, I’m so happy you’re here and I’m so blessed. my mother and I tried to take real good care of each other over the years and when she died, I thought, ‘well I know she’ll be all right now, but I don’t know about me, who’s going to take care of me, cuz I know God’s taking care of her’ and it occurred to me yesterday, that she didn’t need me anymore, but she left behind people who do and she couldn’t take care of me anymore, but she left behind people who could. and so I know I’ll be alright, my friend Karen said, ‘you know death came for your mother several times and she ignored it’ and then finally God said no I’m serious and I’m going to take you right here now where you can’t get away thank you God for doing that, that way and that quick and in this place where she’s filled with people who love her so much. Thank you. Amen!

Eulogy for Mother Poems

Below are a list of poems suitable for a mothers eulogy

• My Mother Kept A Garden
• Child and Mother
• A Sonnet for My Incomparable Mother
• Goodbye Mom
• Away by James Whitcomb Riley
• Richer Than Gold by Strickland Gillilan
• Your Mother is Always With You by Deborah R Culver
• In Remembrance by Christine Currah
• My Mother, My Friend by J. Allen Shaw
• Only One Mother by George Cooper

We have curated a list of suitable funeral poems for mums to help give you some inspiration.

How to Write a Unique Eulogy for Your Mother

A story from a child is one that no other can replicate. There through good and bad, the clsoe bond shared will forever be with you and something you can use when penning a eulogy for your mother. We have written en extensive post to help you write your eulogy, but writing for your mother comes with a few extra steps that will ensure your message is a perfect goodbye.

1. Gather Thoughts and Memories

Make sure you speak with other fmaily members, friends & work colleagues to relive past memories. Not only will this help you determine the theme for your speech but it will ensure they feel a part of this too.

2. Theme your Mothers Eulogy

We dont advocate listing off items in chronological order like you are reading for ma list. Think of the type of women your mother was an weave this into your stories. Can you describe a time of adversity she overcame. Highlight the journey she went on, not just things that happen to everyone.

3. Slow Down and Really Remember Her

Rushing through the eulogy is a sure fire way to under deliver your speech. As well as practicing, just slow down, this gives you time to think and the audience a chance to catch up with you. A helpful tip is to write your speech as if your mother was in the audience and talk directly to her.

When it comes to paying tribute to your mother, only you will know the best way to immortalise her memory. We have put together an extensive list of funeral poems and popular funeral music for mothers, we hope this will help you plan the ceremony. If we are missing any information, please do contact us so we can ensure this resource is as helpful as possible.

• Condolences & What To Say

21+ Short Eulogy Examples for a Funeral

Updated 04/12/2024

Published 11/15/2019

Kate Wight, BA in English

Contributing writer

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

A eulogy is a speech given in honor of a loved one who has passed away. Eulogies are given at funerals and memorial services and are typically delivered by a family member or close friend of the deceased.

Eulogies are one of the most important aspects of a funeral or memorial service . They provide an opportunity to inform or remind guests of who the deceased was as a person. In a eulogy, the person delivering it talks about the deceased’s interests and talents. They’ll also share things the deceased was passionate about. In addition, they may share funny or moving anecdotes about the deceased.

Have you been tapped to deliver a eulogy for a loved one, but aren’t sure what you should say? The tone for your eulogy will depend on a lot of factors. The eulogy a grandson gives for his grandfather will be different than the eulogy a husband gives for his wife or one a sister gives for her brother. It will also depend on the manner of death.

A eulogy for someone who died in a tragic accident will have a different tenor than a eulogy for someone who died after a lengthy illness. Here are some tips to help you prepare, no matter the circumstances.

Tip:  You can also use these eulogy examples as a starting point for your online memorial page. Writing a memorial page tribute is very similar to writing a eulogy. If you haven't created a memorial page yet, consider using Cake's online memorial tool . It's easy to use and completely free.

Jump ahead to these sections:

Short eulogy examples for a friend, short eulogy examples for a father or father-in-law, short eulogy examples for a mother or mother-in-law, short eulogy examples for a brother or sister, short eulogy examples for a cousin, short eulogy examples for a partner or spouse, short eulogy examples for an aunt or uncle, short eulogy examples for a colleague.

Sometimes it’s difficult settling on a family member to deliver a eulogy. Family members may be too emotional, or there may be some degree of family estrangement. Whatever the reason, sometimes a friend is the best option. The honor usually goes to a lifelong friend who grew up with the deceased and can provide perspective on them throughout their life.

Here are some examples of how a eulogy from a friend might read.

“Amanda and I met on the first day of kindergarten. I was crying, because, as many of you know, I don’t do well with change. Amanda marched right up to me and took my hand. ‘Don’t worry,’ she said. ‘I’ll take care of you.’ That’s the kind of person she was. She was always the kind of person who would step up and take care of someone sad or hurt or afraid.

"That’s why none of us were surprised when she became a firefighter . On the worst day of people’s lives, she was there. She was willing to put herself on the line to protect people and their families. In the end, she died saving people, and she wouldn’t have had any regrets about that, so I can’t either. I’m still sad about it though. I still don’t do well with change. And I wish she was here to hold my hand and get me through.”

“John and I have been friends our whole lives. We were actually friends before we were even born—our mothers met in the waiting room at the doctor’s office when they were pregnant with us. We grew up a few streets apart. We went to school together.

"We played football together. We started a terrible garage band together, much to the dismay of our parents and anyone else in a three-block radius. John was always more like a brother to me than a friend, and when he married my sister that made it official. I don’t know what my life will look like without him in it. I’ve never had to live in a world without him.

"But we have sons who are the same age, and they are cousins and best friends all in one. Getting to watch them grow up together will help keep John alive in all of our hearts.”

"Many of you may know that Sarah and I have owned and operated a bakery together for several years. You might not know that we were baking together long before that. Our parents enrolled us in a summer program that taught kids how to cook and bake, and we bonded over our love for creating offbeat flavors.

"While most kids our age had lemonade stands, we were setting up mini bake sales to buy more ingredients to bake more stuff. Sarah wasn’t just a talented baker, though. She was a great person. When you’re working long hours with someone, it’s easy to get frustrated with each other. But Sarah was endlessly patient and kind with everyone, inside the kitchen and out.”

Do you know how you want to be remembered?

Send your end-of-life preferences—including your legacy, cremation, burial, and funeral choices—with your loved ones. Create a free Cake profile to get started.

It can be difficult finding the right words to capture everything special about your father. Some people will source  funeral quotes for a eulogy . They can make it easier for you to find an entry point. Others will instead pick a particular anecdote that sums up their father’s character. Here are a few examples.

Tip:  Writing a eulogy might be just one of the tasks you're facing for the first time after losing a loved one. For help prioritizing the rest, check out our post-loss checklist . 

“The author Frank Clark wrote, ‘A father is a man who expects his son to be as good a man as he meant to be.’ My father was the best man I knew. Even so, he expected us, his sons, to be better. He did this by holding us accountable for our actions.

"If we weren’t living up to his expectations, he was sure to let us know. But was never unkind about it. He showed us that real men needed to be compassionate as well as strong. I’ll never be able to express how grateful I am for the way he raised us. But I will continue to always try to exceed his expectations about who I could be.”

“Charles Kettering once said, ‘Every father should remember one day his son will follow his example, not his advice.' I don’t know if my dad knew that quote, but it was certainly the way he lived his life.

"While some of my friends’ dads had an attitude that seemed to be, ‘Do as I say, not as I do,’ my father would have never asked that of me. If there was anything he couldn’t stand it was hypocrisy. I’m so proud of the kind of dad I had. I hope that as he looks down on me from heaven, he’ll continue to be proud of the kind of son I am.”

“My parents split up when I was quite young, and my mother raised me on her own. She did such a phenomenal job, that I never felt like I was missing out on anything. But when I met my husband, I finally realized how much different a father-daughter dynamic could be.

"Charles was more than a father-in-law to me. He truly was the father I never had. He was always there for me to offer advice or a hug. When I married my husband he told me not to feel that I was adjacent to the family—he let me know that he thought of me as one of his children. I hope he knows that I held him in just as high a regard.”

If you need more help writing a eulogy for your dad, read our guides on how to write a eulogy for a father  and how to write a eulogy for a father-in-law .

There is no love like the love that a mother feels for her child. Delivering a eulogy for the mother or mother figure in your life allows you to express your gratitude for that very unique love.

“When I was young, I remember asking my mom why she wasn’t home waiting for me after school like the moms of so many of my friends. She told me that while being a mother was an incredible calling, she felt that her skills and talents that she needed to share with the world.

"My mother was the first female surgeon to practice at her hospital. She prepared for that as one of the only female medical students in her class. People challenged her ability to be both a mother and a surgeon, but she brought the same passion and commitment to both roles. And she did it without tearing down other women who walked different paths. She has inspired me as both her daughter and as a physician.”

“There are so many rites of passage that people think are exclusive to fathers and sons. But as a boy who was raised by a single mother, I learned so many things from her you wouldn’t expect. She taught me to change my oil and change my tires.

"She taught me how to throw a baseball. But she also taught me how to cook and how to be a good listener. She played the role of two parents, and she did it in a way that never let on how many sacrifices she had to make. I am such a well-rounded person because of the way she raised me.” 

“When we were growing up, we didn’t have much to our names. But honestly, we never realized what we were missing out on. Susan, our mother, was so creative in the way she spent time with us. She could tell epic tales from the top of her head that always captured our attention.

"She created magical worlds for us to play in. Even when we didn’t have much to eat, she’d give our simple dinners exciting names to make us laugh. She taught us so much about resilience, even when we didn’t understand that’s the lesson we were learning.”

Read our guides on how to write a eulogy for a mother if you need more help, tips, or examples.

Siblings have a special and unique bond. While sometimes siblings can drive you crazy, they are also your first best friends. It can be so hard to eulogize siblings, but it is also incredibly rewarding to be able to send off your brother or sister with special, well-chosen words:

“When I used to go to my friends’ houses after school, I could never understand why their older brothers shooed us away when we wanted to play with them. After all, my older brother never treated me like that. Before long, it felt like he wasn’t just my big brother—he was everyone’s big brother.

"All my friends wanted to play at our house because they loved Manuel so much. He didn’t treat us like we were dumb or annoying because we happened to be younger than he was. He was always so generous with his time and attention. The world has lost such a special person.”

“Those of you who didn’t know us growing up might be surprised to hear that Marian and I weren’t always close. Marian was smart and beautiful. She seemed to have everything going for her. It was hard being her younger sister. I struggled academically, and teachers who had taught her would often accuse me of slacking off. In a lot of ways, I resented her because she seemed to have it so easy.

"It wasn’t until she went to college and I really began to miss her that I regretted the gulf between us. We talked more, and I learned she was jealous of how easily I made friends. I also learned she felt sad because it seemed like I didn’t like her. I vowed never to make her feel that way again. I’m proud to say that we were best friends for the last 20 years, and I’ll always be proud to be her sister.” 

“People used to ask me growing up what it was like to have an identical twin. I could never find the words. How do you explain what it’s like to have someone share your exact DNA? It’s the closest you can be to another person without being them.

"Conversely, I can’t begin to put into words what it’s like to be standing here without Emma. It would be easier to stand here without lungs or a heart because she is so essential to who I am. But because of our shared DNA, I can take comfort in the fact that as long as I’m alive, she will also exist in some form.”

Head over to our guide on how to write a eulogy for a sister and how to write a eulogy for a brother for more inspiration. 

Sometimes it can be challenging for parents or a sibling to eulogize someone in their immediate family. A cousin can be close enough to provide perspective on the deceased and retain some emotional distance.

“I was an only child growing up but in truth, it never felt that way. Rachel was more of a sister to me than a cousin. We were the same age, we wore the same size, and we both had the Andrews’ family combination of red hair and green eyes.

"We looked enough alike that no one questioned us when we said we were twins. In recent years, we lived farther away from each other than we ever had before. But we remained close, and I don’t know what I’ll do without our weekly Sunday night phone calls.”

“Growing up the only girl in a family with five brothers was a real challenge sometimes. Luckily I had Norah. While Norah was my cousin, she played the role of a big sister to me. She passed me down awesome clothes and taught me how to style my hair and put on makeup. She also offered me comfort and advice whenever I had boy troubles.

"This was so helpful because I couldn’t confide in my brothers—all they’d do is threaten to beat guys up if they made me cry. Norah left behind two daughters, and I hope I can pay forward her kindness by being there for them the way she was for me.”

“Calvin and I didn’t live near each other growing up, but every summer our families would meet up for two weeks at the family lake house. Those idyllic summers remain some of my favorite family memories. Calvin and I would be up with the sun every day. We played hide and seek. We leaped off the old tire swing into the water.

"We rode our bikes to the ice cream shop and roasted hot dogs and S’mores in the firepit for dinner. Half the nights we wouldn’t even sleep inside, opting instead to camp out under the expansive night sky. Now, whenever I look up at the stars, I’ll know Calvin is right there looking down on us.”   

When you commit to spending your life with someone, you have the intention of being with them until the end of the line. Sadly, sometimes one partner’s journey ends well before their counterpart. Here are some examples of a eulogy you might give in honor of a spouse or partner.

“Many little girls grow up planning their perfect future wedding. Anyone who knows me can tell you that I was not one of them. My family was complex and fractured. Every example I had of a marriage or partnership seemed toxic and terrible. I didn’t understand why people would voluntarily sign up to spend their lives with someone else when it just looked miserable to me. That all changed when I met Jeff.

While I had dated other people before Jeff, I never went into anything thinking it would last long-term. But Jeff was different. He quickly became my best friend as well as my partner. He told me once that he was ready to marry me two weeks after we met. But he knew I was wary about that level of commitment for various reasons. He told me that it was okay if I was never ready to get married. He wasn’t going anywhere, whether we had a piece of paper tying us together or not. And after almost a decade, I was finally ready to take that plunge.

Jeff changed my life in so many ways. He taught me that even if my past scarred me, it didn’t make me unworthy of love. He taught me that love and patience must go hand in hand. Now that he’s gone, I feel half of my heart is missing. But I will never regret loving him and walking this world side by side for the time we shared.”

“Mary Anne and I were only married for six short years, but our relationship spans decades. For so many years, we had to tell people that we were just roommates and best friends. But over time, we were able to share with our close family and friends that we were in love. Even then, we didn’t think that we would ever have the opportunity to get married. 

When same-sex marriage was legalized, there wasn’t a question about whether or not we would get married. The only question was when. We ended up having a quick courthouse wedding because we were so afraid that legislators would say, “Just kidding!” But even the most extravagant fairy tale wedding couldn’t have topped our simple ceremony. Because finally, the whole world could see us celebrate our love and commitment to one another.

A marriage license didn’t suddenly make our relationship valid or even stronger. Mary Anne and I were together for almost forty years before our marriage, and during that time, we were forged in fire. But even a decade ago, I wouldn’t have been able to stand up here and call myself her wife. I miss Mary Anne desperately. But I’m so fortunate that I was able to formalize my relationship with her in a way that earlier generations of gay people would never have dreamed possible.”

Family dynamics can vary quite dramatically across cultures. In some cultures, it’s unusual for people to form a close connection with extended family members. Meanwhile, in other cultures, every older family member is regarded as an aunt or an uncle, no matter how distant the family relationship may be. But no matter where you come from, an aunt or uncle may significantly influence your life. Here are some eulogies that honor that special relationship. 

“When people learn that I grew up without a dad, they often feel sorry for me. But the truth is, I never felt like anything was missing from my life. My mom was an amazing woman who worked hard to support us and was always there for me emotionally, too. But she also knew I needed a strong male role model in my life. That’s where Uncle Jerry came in.

My mom’s brother was a perpetual bachelor who never had much interest in starting a family of his own. But when my mom asked him if he could serve in a fatherly role to me, he stepped up without any hesitation. He played catch with me when I was young and attended all my baseball games when I got older. I could hear him bellow from the stands, “That’s my boy!” whenever I got so much as a base hit. He taught me how to shave and how to tie a tie. He taught me how to be a good man, unlike the guy who fathered me and then took off before I was even born.

When people ask me if it was hard growing up without a father, I tell them I don’t know. Because as far as I’m concerned, Uncle Jerry was and always will be the only dad I needed.”

“Both of my parents were only children, so I didn’t have a lot of family around when I was growing up. I would get jealous hearing my friends talk about their aunts and uncles, so one day when I was three or four, I demanded that my mom create an aunt for me. She told this story to her best friend Nancy, who immediately said, ‘Well, that’s it, I’m her aunt now.’ And from then on, she was Aunt Nancy.

Nancy was probably the most remarkable person I had ever met, so I was thrilled about her new role in my life. I was fascinated by her stylish bob haircut and dangly earrings. She lived in New York City, which felt so cultured compared to small-town Florida. When I would visit her, she’d take me to restaurants that served exotic global cuisine. She took me to plays. She let me sneak a glass of champagne at dinner and then took me to a fortune teller. Thanks to her influence, my world instantly expanded and became more colorful and vibrant.

Recently, my best friend had her first child. I’ve already told her that if her kid needs an honorary aunt, count me in. After all, I learned from the best.”

A eulogy is typically delivered by a family member or close friend of the deceased. But that’s not always the case. If you work a traditional nine to five job, you’ll spend nearly a quarter of your adult life at work. Over time, people often develop close, almost familial relationships with their coworkers, in addition to the people in their personal lives. Alternatively, someone who devotes themselves to their career may not have many close connections outside of the office. A coworker may be the best person to deliver a eulogy in cases like these. 

“Sally Murray was an extraordinary teacher. I could spend the next five minutes discussing her many accolades and professional accomplishments without even scratching the surface. Instead, I’d like to focus on the more personal aspects that made her a great educator. 

Sally didn’t talk about her early life too often, but she let some things slip every now and then. She grew up in the system, bouncing between foster families and group homes. When she aged out of the system, she had very few resources, save for her high school English teacher who took her in when she had nowhere else to go. Sally spent her entire life paying that forward.

Sally could have worked in any number of schools, but she chose the ones that had the fewest resources. She connected with even the most hardened kids because she had once been where they were. She was never condescending. She never painted herself as a savior. She just wanted to reach out a hand to people who were struggling and help pull them up.

One of our coworkers once asked her if she was sad she had never had kids. ‘What are you talking about?’ Sally scoffed. ‘I have hundreds of kids.’ That’s just the kind of person she was.”

“When I took over my dad’s business after he passed away, I felt like I was in way over my head. I spent a lot of nights working late, trying to get a handle on how to run the company without driving it into the ground. Every night at 10 pm, Sam, our nighttime security guard, would poke his head into my office to say hello. At first, I didn’t welcome the interruption. But I soon realized that Sam knew the company better than anyone else. He was the silent eyes and ears of the place, and he was happy to share his knowledge with me so I could have a broader understanding of what I was working with.

Soon, my nightly meetings with Sam became the highlight of my day. I started brewing coffee before he’d come by on his rounds and would cajole him into having a cup with me. He regaled me with stories about how the business had evolved over the past twenty years. It turned out he and my dad had shared the same ritual, which made me feel even closer to him.

When you run a business, you’re very fortunate if you can find people who value it as much as you do. Sam may not have owned the business, but he took ownership of it in a way that I probably never could have. It won’t be the same without his constant, steady presence.`` 

Delivering Your Best Eulogy

There is no hard and fast rule about who should deliver a eulogy. It could be delivered by a family member, a close friend, or even a work colleague or mentor. The only real requirement is that the person delivering the eulogy should have had a strong bond with the deceased. When you speak from your heart, you are sure to honor the person you cared for . 

Post-planning tip: If you are the executor for a deceased loved one, you have more than just the eulogy to think about. Handling their unfinished business can be overwhelming without a way to organize your process. We have a post-loss checklist  that will help you ensure that your loved one's family, estate, and other affairs are taken care of.

Categories:

• Funerals & Memorial Services
• Eulogy For Friend
• Eulogy For Parent
• Eulogy For Sibling

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7+ tribute ideas for a mother who has passed away.

Paying tribute to a mother who has passed away is a common gesture children and others want to make. You’ll often find tributes in books, art, film, poems, and other media, but these aren’t the only places to pay tribute to someone you’ve lost. You can also pay tribute to a mother by doing any of the following: through an event, honorary donation, and other ways. Here’s some ideas to get you started on paying tribute to a mother who died.

Words to say at a funeral for your mother

If you're looking for suggestions on paying tribute to a mother at her funeral, you've come to the right place. Paying tribute can be done verbally or nonverbally, which can make it easier for all types of people to pay tribute to their mother at her funeral. In general, when paying tribute, you'll want to focus on the ways in which your mother was important to you, her impact on others, and what made her unique and special.

Example of a tribute to a mother who passed away

"Thank you so much to everyone for being here today to celebrate the life and honor the memory of my mother. To explain just how much my mother means to me is an impossible task, but I want to make sure that I pay tribute to my mother at her funeral. My mother was one of the strongest, bravest, and kindest humans to grace this planet. Without her, I wouldn't be here today, I wouldn't be the person I am, and I wouldn't have the life I have. She is everything to me, and more, and there's no way I could ever quantify the importance she's held in my life. My mother was the best mother a person could ask for: [list some of her qualities]. Thank you, mom, for everything. In closing, I'd like to read this poem, one of my mom's favorites: [Poem] I love you, mom."

Poems about the death of a mother

Funeral poems for mothers usually include a reference to their importance in our lives, their guidance and knowledge as a mom, their love of their family, or other aspects of motherhood. You can find some example poems about losing a mother and poems about the death of a mother below. These poems also serve as excellent mothers day poems for moms that have passed away.

A Sonnet for My Incomparable Mother by Joanna Fuchs "I think of all the things you gave to me / Sacrifice, devotion, love and tears / Your heart, your mind, your energy and soul / All these you spent on me throughout the years."

Goodbye Mom by Aneela Ahmed "As you leave today / Let me cry, let me say / My mom was my hero. / Leading me to right / Forgiving and loving / A star so bright. / So I lose today / My support, my light. / My dear Mom. / Making my life bright."

If Roses Grow in Heaven by Dolores M. Garcia "If roses grow in heaven, / Lord please pick a bunch for me, / Place them in my Mother’s arms / and tell her they’re from me."

Richer Than Gold by Strickland Gillilan “You may have tangible wealth untold / Caskets of jewels and coffers of gold / Richer than I you can never be / I had a mother who read to me.”

Wonderful Mother by Patrick O’Reilly "God made a wonderful mother, / A mother who never grows old; / He made her smile of the sunshine. / And He moulded her heart of pure gold; / In her eyes He placed bright shining stars, / In her cheeks fair roses you see; / God made a wonderful mother, / And He gave that dear mother to me."

When God Thought of Mother by Henry Ward Beecher "When God thought of mother, / He must have laughed with satisfaction, / and framed it quickly – / so rich, so deep, so divine, / so full of soul, power, and beauty, / as the conception."

A Mother’s Crown by Unknown "Heaven lit up with a mighty presence, / as the Angels all looked down. / Today the Lord was placing the jewels / Into my mother’s crown."

Quotes to include when paying tribute to a mother

You can include these quotes at the end of your tribute, eulogy, or speech, if you decide to give one.

“Those we love and lose are always connected by heartstrings into infinity.” - Terri Guillemets

“My mother is a never ending song in my heart of comfort, happiness and being. I may sometimes forget the words but I always remember the tune.” - Graycie Harmon

“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” - Mahatma Gandhi

"What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes part of us." - Helen Keller

"If I had a flower for every time I thought of you ... I could walk in my own garden forever." - Alfred Tennyson

"No matter what age... I'll always need you mom.­" - Unknown

"Don’t grieve. Anything you lose comes round in another form." Rumi

Funeral ideas for mom

Many families and individuals want to make sure that their mother's funeral is a special one, but may not know where to start. When it comes to making a funeral unique or uniquely special, it's important to stay true to the individual who passed away. Here are some funeral ideas for a mother who has passed that can help you pay tribute to your mom.

Make a memorial website for her

A memorial website is a wonderful way to share the life of your mom with friends, family, and your community. Memorial websites on Ever Loved come with tons of features that other families have found incredibly helpful and useful in remembering the life of someone they loved. A memorial website gives you the opportunity to publish an obituary, share family history, start a fundraiser, share memories and photos, and share any important event information you have -- all for free.

Start a memorial website

Decorate the service with your mother's favorite flowers or colors

If your mother had a favorite color, plant, or type of flower, decorating the service with this plant or flower (or color) is a great way to honor her memory. You can take this one step further by asking attendees to wear a piece of clothing that's of this color or, if they're considering arrangements, to send arrangements with your specific flower or plant in mind.

Read out favorite memories or moments

Ask friends and loved ones to send in favorite memories or moments so that you can collect them and read them at some point during the ceremony. This is a great way to share moments or memories that others may not have been aware of and can help create a sense of shared joy and connectedness among those attending.

Give attendees a set of favorite recipes

Was your mom a great cook? Were there any recipes she was particularly known for? Sharing these recipes with loved ones is an easy and loving way to share something your mom was great at with all of those who know her.

Hold the memorial service somewhere special

If you're able to, hosting the memorial service in a special spot is an excellent way to honor your mother's memory. If you're not able to host

Plan an annual trip to a favorite spot

Did your mom have a favorite camping spot or favorite restaurant? Planning an annual trip to this spot in her memory is a great way to connect with your friends and family while honoring your mother's memory.

Do a butterfly or pigeon release

Butterfly or pigeon releases can add an added element of nature and beauty at your mother's funeral. You can ask that there's a moment of silence during this time or have a certain special song be sung or played. This is also a great time to ask folks to share a special moment or memory they had with your mother.

Have people plant in a garden dedicated to your mom

If you have space that'd you like to dedicate to your mom, consider planting a garden in her memory. Have friends and family come to the space and give them seeds or sprouts to plant in the garden. This is a wonderful way to see a living tribute grow over time in her memory.

Regardless of your chosen method of honoring your mother, it’s encouraged that you set up a memorial website - even if it’s just to share information on the other ways in which you’re memorializing your mom. Memorial websites are free, stay up indefinitely, and are easy to use and set up.

Create a memorial website

Get funeral quotes, get free grief support, how to donate to charity in someone's memory.

Donating to a charity in memory of someone is a great way of honoring the person who has passed on and an excellent way of recognizing their contributions. The best charities are often those that have a personal connection, so you should try to find something that would be meaningful to the person w

Are Obituaries Required by Law?

Obituaries are a common way of remembering people who are no longer with us. We are often left to wonder what they were like, how their life was lived, and what legacy they left behind. While obituaries are important, you may find yourself questioning whether they're required by law. What if you don

When to Publish an Obituary

When someone passes away, there are several steps that are usually taken before they can be laid to rest; notifying family members and friends about the person's death is one of those tasks. Publishing an obituary formally announces the person’s death, tells their life story, and shares key funeral

Want to publish an obituary for free?

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Eulogy for a Mother from her Daughter

I hope this eulogy which I have written for my mother will help you at a very difficult time if you find yourself trying to write one for your own mother. 

When my mother died in 1970 at the age of 64, I went into denial.  ( You can read about that here ).  She had been living with me for over a year while she was fighting cancer and I was looking after her. She had only recently gone home as she wanted to be in her own home when she died.  Because I was in such as state, I found it impossible to get involved in the funeral arrangements, let alone write a eulogy at that time.  Writing it now, 48 years later has been an emotional trip down memory lane and a wonderful way to remember my mother. I hope this page can honour her as a memorial to my very special mother.   I have written it as if I was speaking it at her funeral in 1970.   As they say, it's better late than never.  

Eulogy for Ellen, My Mother

Thank you for being with us today, to celebrate the life of a remarkable woman, my mother Ellen. There are no lessons about 'The Art of Mothering' we can only do our best and hope that we do it well. My mother certainly got an A ++ in this.

She was a caring, supportive and loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother and friend. Yet she was shy and unassuming and always said of herself "I am just a housewife". 

No she was not. She was a homemaker in the true sense of the word. Every room in our home had rugs on the floor that she had made. She had wallpapered or painted each room herself. Every time I or anyone in her family put on socks, gloves, scarves, cardigans or jumpers she had knitted them. All evidence of her many skills. Her budgeting was remarkable. We always had hot meals, soups, scones, cakes and although we were financially poor we never went hungry. 

She kept our home warm during the cold north-east winter. The quality of our lives was rich. 

My mother was born in March 1906, the third youngest of 12 children. Sadly only 5 survived to adulthood. My mother's oldest sister had children nearer to my mothers age and they lived around the mining town of Washington, Tyneside where her father worked in the mines.

Ellen was clever at school and the teachers all wanted her to go on to college from the grammar school. However, her parents could not afford the uniforms and books, even if she got a scholarship. At the time many thought a woman would marry, have children and education was a waste of their time. She followed the path of many girls at that time and went into service, caring for a family. The father was an officer in the Army. The family were good to her and she was happy there. My father was the driver for the officer and this is how my parents met when he collected him at the home. Mum and Dad started meeting on her days off. The family were moving abroad and wanted my mother to go with them. However Dad was about to leave the Army and they had decided to get married.

They moved to Teeside and Dad started work at the large ICI chemical plant. They were offered accommodation and had 3 houses to choose from which was amazing really.

They married on New Years Eve 1932 and their first child, a boy, was born a year later, but sadly was stillborn. This was a very sad time for her. Then a close family member, an unmarried mother, had a child, a boy, and it was a huge scandal in those days. My parents adopted him and I treasure my wonderful brother. How fortunate we were to have him in our family. I came on the scene 6 years later. I was born in 1939 at the start of the war. Dad had to go back into the Army and mum coped alone for the next few years, though she had her younger sister and her 3 children with us for months, due to the bombings in London. That was seven to feed with rationing and poor wages - it could not have been easy.

I was only 6 at the end of the war, but I can remember being woken in the night to be taken into the air raid shelter, which we shared with neighbors. One night was really scary when there was a banging on the door of the shelter. It was Dad, home for an unexpected leave.

It is hard to imagine now how difficult it must have been for the wives at home, never knowing where their husbands were, or when they would see them again.

The war finished and my father resumed his job at ICI.  He works shifts and is rarely off sick despite his Bronchitis. You always supported us Dad and we are very proud of you.

Mum and I were close and I would help her around the home or with the shopping. We would go to the Stockton markets or to Middlesborough on the Transporter Bridge. Mum was small and one day the wind picked her up and blew her a few feet in front of me as we were walking up to the bridge which was really scary. I did not like the cold markets in the winter but mum wanted the cheaper vegetables. 

We did not get electricity in the house until I was 9. It is hard to believe we had no washing machine or hoover. The iron heated on the one open fire and washing dried around it on the many wet days. The tub and wooden plunger came out on Monday wash day then the mangle to hand turn. It was a way of life and we just accepted it. However it was an exciting day to be able to flick a switch for light instead of matches and gas mantles. Though it was a while before we could afford the washing machine. Mum had always wanted a fridge. It arrived while she was in hospital last week so she never even saw it.

However, despite the hardships, our lives were filled with music, singing and laughter. Dad always has his country music playing on the radio and he sings along. Mum played her piano often and we would sing. Mum, Dad and I would go to the cinema at least once a week and we went to many concerts at churches, schools and town halls.

We would have family discussions at meal times. There was little traffic in the street so we could all play safely, lots of children together, we had second hand bikes and roller skates. 

Coal was delivered by horse and cart in the early years and everything paid for in cash. Fresh milk delivered each day and a very good regular bus service but there were many changes during Mum's life time.

My mother loved dogs and we always had one around the home. Judy, our present dog makes us laugh as Mum would say "Shut the door Judy" and off she would go and shut it by pushing it with her nose. 

Two of Mum's sisters are older than her and you know how often she visited you, even in the winter, when one year the snow was piled up on the side of the road and was higher than the coach we were in she still wanted to check you were well. You were always good to her and she enjoyed her weekends visiting you even bringing bags full of coal back sometimes, but always some of your cakes or scones.

Her friends know how helpful she was when they felt unwell. She would do shopping for them and take meals. Strangers would tell her their life histories or troubles even during a short wait at a bus stop, she had that approachable trusting nature.

My brother finished his apprenticeship at the shipyard and went into the merchant navy at age 16. I had the opportunity to start a cadet nursing course when I was 16 in the South of England. My parents agreed and a friend and I went. Looking back we were young and some parents would not have allowed it. Her love gave me the freedom to go. She too had left home at a young age to go into service so perhaps it was easier for her to understand. Dad and Mum had many holidays visiting me during my time near the sea in Essex.

Where they were was always home to me and I knew whenever I wanted to return home I would always be welcome. I hope my children will feel the same. Both parents instilled confidence in me by their unconditional love. I would never do anything to hurt them.

Mum then got a job. She was so proud of it. She worked in a newsagents for many years near the shipyard. They were very busy from 6 am getting newspapers ready for the men going in for the early shifts and for the newspaper delivery boys and girls.

I have lost my wonderful mother, companion, adviser and mentor. I am so honored to have been her daughter. I am grieving for the amazing relationship I had with her. I am grieving for my father who has lost the best wife it is possible to have had, for my children who have only known this wonderful grandmother for such a short time in their lives, for my brother and his family who have lost a true friend, mother and grandmother. We have all suffered a huge loss.

She taught us all what is really important in life - to love, support and care for friends and family in our lives. We are all better off for having known her. It was a great privilege to be her daughter.

I can understand why this church is so full today. Thank you all once again for supporting our family today.

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