How do I speak well at a funeral?

Tips for Getting Through a Funeral Speech
  1. Look at your speech like an opportunity. ...
  2. Preparation is key. ...
  3. Listen to your heart. ...
  4. Don't worry about getting emotional. ...
  5. Have a glass of water and some tissues handy. ...
  6. Memorise parts of the speech. ...
  7. Think about eye contact. ...
  8. Don't rush through it.


How do you speak at a funeral?

Tips for Delivering a Eulogy
  1. Write it Down Word for Word. It's perfectly acceptable to write down your eulogy speech word for word. ...
  2. Keep it Short and Sweet. Try to keep your speech between 5 to 7 minutes, 10 minutes at the most. ...
  3. Practice, Practice, Practice. ...
  4. Speak slowly and make eye contact. ...
  5. Remember to Breathe.


What's a good speech to say at a funeral?

Share the person's favourite poem or song lyrics. Share something that the person said, and that you will always remember. Talk about their favourite interests or hobbies. Celebrate the biggest achievements in their life.


Is it hard to speak at a funeral?

Communicating your thoughts in front of people is hard. It ranks high on a list of the most common fears. It's even harder when you're trying to speak at a funeral. You're not trying to give an informative presentation in front of your colleagues.

How do you not cry when talking at a funeral?

How to Avoid Crying at a Funeral
  1. BREATHE. Controlling breath is the first step to reducing anxiety during a panic attack, and it stands to reason that calming yourself will also be beneficial when feeling extreme sorrow. ...
  2. DISTRACT YOURSELF. ...
  3. GET PHYSICAL. ...
  4. BLINK. ...
  5. DRINK WATER.


4 Tips for Successfully Speaking at a Funeral



What's the hardest part of a funeral?

Attending a visitation can be the hardest part for people to attend, because it involves talking to the deceased's family. A good recommendation is to say something simple such as “I am sorry about your loss”, especially if there are many other guests waiting to share their condolences.

How do I calm my nerves for a funeral?

How do I cope with anxiety at a funeral?
  1. Find a safe space at the service.
  2. Reach out to others, and find a support partner.
  3. Think of this as a way to celebrate your loved one's life.
  4. Accept that no one will judge you for how much emotion you show.
  5. Speak to a funeral director about how you're feeling.


Can you smile at a funeral?

It's not only okay to smile at a funeral but it's also encouraged, especially when greeting the bereaved. Seeing someone smile at us can help lift our spirits. It's also a nonverbal way of showing support.


Who speaks first at a funeral?

The speech is ideally given by someone who knew the person well enough to gather and share memories and highlights of his/her life. Sometimes the choice is obvious within the family. There is often one person who seems to be the unofficial family spokesperson.

What not to say at a funeral?

Here are seven things to avoid saying at a funeral or to someone grieving the loss of a loved one.
  • “They're an angel now.”
  • “I know how you feel.”
  • “They look so good.”
  • “Don't cry” or “Go ahead and cry.”
  • “At least it wasn't worse.”
  • “God is sovereign.”
  • “Let me know if I can help.”
  • What can you say instead?


How do you start a speech at a funeral?

Eulogy Outline
  1. Start with opening remarks (introduce yourself and give your relationship to the deceased).
  2. If you are an immediate family member, thank attendees (especially those who have traveled a great distance).
  3. If you are not a family member, express your condolences.


How do you introduce yourself at a funeral?

When introducing yourself to the family at a funeral or memorial service, be proactive. Those grieving will likely not approach you, so you should approach them. It's a good idea to keep your words brief. Say your name, explain your relationship to the person who died, and express your condolences.

What is the most common thing said at a funeral?

Offering Condolences: What to Say at a Funeral
  • “I am so sorry for your loss”
  • “You and your loved one are in my thoughts and prayers”
  • “This is so sad to hear, I'm thinking of you and the family”
  • “If you want to talk at any time, I'm here”
  • “Shocked and saddened by this news if you need anything I'm here”


How can I be a good MC at a funeral?

Introduce yourself and explain your relationship to the deceased. Thank guests for attending the service; acknowledge guests that have travelled to attend. Express condolences to family member and close friends of the deceased.


How do you look classy at a funeral?

What's an appropriate outfit for a funeral?
  1. Dress modestly. People generally try to avoid low necklines and other 'sexy' outfit elements.
  2. You don't have to wear all-black. ...
  3. Keep jewellery simple. ...
  4. Be comfortable. ...
  5. Avoid loud colours and patterns. ...
  6. Get out your iron.


Do I have to speak at a funeral?

It is not written anywhere that you have to speak at your loved one's funeral. There are no rules requiring such a moment. If you feel compelled to greet and thank all those gathered or share your thoughts about your loved one, write your thoughts and have someone else read your words during the service.

Is it appropriate to hug at a funeral?

You can demonstrate your love, attention, and support to a grieving person in a number of ways. While just your presence can be enough, still a kind word, a compassionate touch, or a loving hug can mean much to show the bereaved that you care about and support them.


Do you touch body at funeral?

While some people find comfort in seeing their loved ones as they remember them, it may also be uncomfortable to others. If they have an open casket viewing, make sure you follow proper funeral etiquette: DON'T touch the body under any circumstances. Sometimes the casket has a glass to prevent this from happening.

What emotions are at a funeral?

Emotions You Might Feel In the Grieving Process (Part 1)
  • Sadness. This is perhaps the most common and universal emotion to experience at a funeral. ...
  • Loneliness. ...
  • Emptiness or meaninglessness. ...
  • Anger. ...
  • For compassionate funeral services in Brooklyn, contact Harmony Funeral Home.


Why am I so scared to go to a funeral?

There are many reasons why people may feel afraid of attending a funeral: You may feel anxious about being surrounded by sadness and mourning and by the idea that it may overwhelm you. You may have been requested to read a eulogy or help with the planning of the funeral and you may have anxieties over these tasks.


How do you mentally prepare for a funeral?

Nurture your senses: listen to music or the sounds that abound in nature. Engage in prayer or meditation: tap into, or get reacquainted with, your spiritual side. Reduce your list of necessary activities and chores: now is the time to delegate tasks to others, so you can devote your time to self-care.

Why are funerals so stressful?

Often, a significant cause of stress in planning a funeral is the disagreement between family members over what “ dad or mom would have wanted.” Arguments can occur over whether burial or cremation is desired, what kind of casket is appropriate, what kind of service, what kind of monument, when to have the service, and ...

What is disrespectful at a funeral?

Stealing anything from a deceased person or their family is obviously a no-go. Even “just a flower or two,” is also disrespectful. Alternative: Some families may offer up extra flowers to their guests as well as other gifts as a “thank you.” In this case, it's obviously OK to accept these items.


Who walks in first at a funeral?

Unless they have chosen to be seated beforehand, the family comes next, chief mourner(s) first, walking with whomever he or she chooses. Close friends may follow, completing the procession. The family and pallbearers occupy the front rows, with friends filling vacant places on either side.

Which type of funeral is best?

Non-religious and humanist funerals

They celebrate the best moments of the deceased's life. Memories and stories can be shared by loved ones. Music and readings are also common as they help the grieving family retain hope during their difficult time.