What to Say at a Funeral or Celebration of Life: A Guide to Writing a Meaningful Tribute

When you are asked to speak at a funeral or celebration of life ceremony, the task can feel overwhelming. Emotions are high, time is often short, and the pressure to “say the right thing” can feel heavy. Yet, finding the right words doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether you’re preparing a eulogy, a short tribute, or a few remarks, the goal is simple: honor the life, share a memory, and bring comfort to those gathered.

In this guide, we’ll explore what to say at a funeral, what to say at a celebration of life ceremony, and how to write a memorial tribute that feels authentic and meaningful.

What to Say at a Funeral

If you’ve ever wondered, “What do you say at a funeral?” you’re not alone. A funeral speech does not have to be long or perfect—it just needs to be heartfelt. Here are a few approaches:

• Start with gratitude: Thank everyone for coming together to honor your loved one.
• Share a personal memory: A story, no matter how simple, brings life and warmth to your words.
• Acknowledge their character: Speak to who they were—their kindness, humor, dedication, or love.
• Offer comfort: End with a reminder of their lasting impact or a message of hope.

“We are here to remember Sarah, who had a gift for making everyone feel seen. She taught us that small acts of kindness can change the world, and I know her spirit lives on in each of us.”

What to Say at a Celebration of Life Ceremony

A celebration of life is often less formal than a funeral and focuses on joy, memories, and honoring the legacy of the person who has passed. If you are wondering what to say at a celebration of life ceremony, here are some ideas:

• Highlight moments of joy: Share laughter, achievements, or memorable quirks.
• Involve others: Encourage stories from friends and family.
• Focus on legacy: Talk about how their influence will continue.
• Use uplifting language: A celebration of life is about honoring a full and meaningful journey.

“James loved music, and he had a way of making every gathering feel like a party. Today, let’s remember his joy and the way he made us all dance through life.”

How to Write a Memorial Tribute

Writing a memorial tribute can feel intimidating, but breaking it into steps makes it manageable. If you’ve asked yourself, “How do I write a memorial tribute?” here’s a simple framework:

1. Begin with an introduction – State your relationship and express gratitude for being able to speak.
2. Share personal stories – Focus on 2–3 meaningful anecdotes that capture their essence.
3. Acknowledge values and character – Highlight what made them unique.
4. Close with a message of comfort – Offer words of hope, love, or remembrance.

Pro tip: Write as if you are speaking directly to your loved one—it helps your words sound natural and genuine.

What to Include in a Eulogy

If you’ve been asked to deliver a eulogy, you may be wondering what to include in a eulogy. While there’s no single right way, most eulogies contain the following:

• Basic details: Name, age, family members, significant life milestones.
• Personality traits: What made them unique—kindness, humor, generosity, resilience.
• Memorable stories: Specific moments that capture who they were.
• Impact on others: The legacy they leave behind with family, friends, and community.
• Closing thoughts: A message of hope, gratitude, or love.

Frequently Asked Questions