Writing and giving a eulogy is a way of saying farewell to someone who has died that, in a sense, brings the person to life in the minds of the audience.

For the majority of us writing and giving a eulogy is something we have no experience of and therefore we find it difficult to know where to start.

The Funeralcare Forum, which we established last year, looked at ways in which funerals could be improved and highlighted a clear need for more information to help people make funerals special. At the same time, staff in our funeral homes also tell us that an increasing number of bereaved families are looking for advice on how to write a eulogy.

In response to this and as part of our commitment to helping people arrange funerals which truly reflect the life of an individual, we’ve produced the guide entitled “Well Chosen Words – How to write a eulogy”. We are delighted to have had input from the Poet Laureate, Professor Andrew Motion, on the project, and he has expressed strong support for what we are doing.

The guide is intended as a starting point for planning, writing and delivering a few well chosen words that will be a fitting tribute. You can view or download this guide on the following page.

In the words of Andrew Motion, “Eulogies are for everyone. They are a reminder that each of us leads a life of special interest and value and that each of us is unique, with our own special gifts.”

We care passionately about helping people arrange funerals which truly reflect the life of an individual – 'Well Chosen Words' underlines our commitment to that goal.

Read the Well Chosen Words Guide online