Losing a father is a heartbreaking and life-changing experience. If you’re writing the eulogy for the funeral, you might be wondering where to begin.
To craft a eulogy celebrating his life, there are simple steps to follow to help you acknowledge the most important aspects of his time on Earth.
Writing Your Dad's Eulogy
Q: How should I prepare to write a eulogy?
A: Find a quiet place. Consider going someplace peaceful — perhaps a park or near a lake. A library can also be a good option. If you’d rather be indoors, choose a room in your home that is relaxing and has little to no distractions.
Proper preparation is key before starting the actual eulogy, even though it might be difficult shortly after a death. Putting together an impactful eulogy about your parent requires undivided concentration. Finding a calming spot will help you gather your thoughts.
Related: How to Start a Eulogy
Q: How can I reflect on memories of my dad?
A: Start by thinking about memories you’ve had with him. Choose positive memories that are easily recalled. Try to describe in detail where you were, what you were doing, and how it made you feel.
You might start with your earliest memory of your father and progress to more recent ones. Be sure to write them down as you recall them.
Q: Should I gather stories from others?
A: Yes. Collect stories and anecdotes from family and friends, especially those he was close with. Ask them about their fondest memories of your dad. Gathering stories isn’t limited to family — coworkers, people he helped, or members of a community he was involved with may also provide valuable perspectives.
Q: How do I highlight my dad's values and lessons?
A: Evaluate his values and the lessons he taught you for inspiration. These qualities are what made him unique and special.
Think of moments when his character stood out. What topics did he often express opinions on? What was he a firm believer in? What skills or lessons did he pass on to you? These reflections speak volumes about who he was as a person.
Q: Should I acknowledge his relationships with others?
A: Yes. Take note of the people your dad spent the most time with. How would you describe his friends and loved ones? What qualities did they see in him?
Understanding his relationships can give you insight into how others perceived him. The types of people he surrounded himself with reveal details about his character worth including in your eulogy.
Q: Is it helpful to include my dad's hobbies and passions?
A: Absolutely. Adding his hobbies and interests brings uniqueness to the eulogy. Try to recall the activities he loved — whether that was building LEGO sets, being an avid sports fan, or anything else. These details make the tribute more personal and memorable.
Q: Which life events should I mention in a eulogy?
A: Highlight significant life events, since they shape identity. These could include milestones like marriage, parenthood, or career achievements. Focus on positive events or challenges that led to growth. Avoid negative events unless they’re tied to a positive outcome.
Q: How should I organize my dad's eulogy?
A: There are several ways to organize. Chronological order (from childhood through adulthood) is common, but you can also structure around a theme.
For example, if your dad was hardworking, the theme could be determination, with stories illustrating his persistence. If he was compassionate, the theme might be love, supported by examples of how he cared for others.
Choose the structure that feels most natural for telling his story.
Q: Do I need to create an outline for a eulogy?
A: Yes. Creating an outline helps you stay focused and ensures a logical flow. Arrange topics in an order that makes sense, and use headings or bullet points as cues.
If you’re struggling, check online for eulogy templates to spark inspiration.
Q: What is the best opening line for a eulogy?
A: There are many ways to begin. A common approach is to state your name, how you’re related to your dad, and how he was important to you. If you’d like something more creative, open with a story or a quote that reflects his life and sets the tone.
If you’re truly stuck, a simple opener works: “We gather here today to celebrate a life well-lived, that of [Name], who touched us all with his love and kindness.”
Q: How do I make the opening engaging?
A: Use a detail or moment that pulls people in. For example, share a quote from his favorite book or movie, or a descriptive story about a special moment you had together. When telling a story, include sensory details so the audience feels like they were there.
Q: Can I incorporate humor?
A: Yes — if it reflects your dad’s personality. Humor can lift spirits and remind people of him fondly, especially if he was known for making others laugh. Just don’t go overboard. Use humor tied to real stories, and keep it respectful and appropriate for the occasion.
Q: How should I end the eulogy?
A: End with a meaningful conclusion, often where you say your final goodbye. Common options include a slideshow, a farewell song, or an emotional quote or poem.
Think about your dad’s values for inspiration. If he was religious, end with a prayer. If he loved music, play his favorite songs. Choose something you know would make him proud.
Completing and Delivering the Eulogy
Q: What should I do before delivering it?
A: Edit carefully. Proofreading is a must. Read the eulogy out loud to catch grammar mistakes and awkward sentences. Ask someone else to review it too. Careful editing will make your delivery smoother.
Trustworthy's free eulogy writer: Let our app create a meaningful tribute
Q: How do I rehearse effectively?
A: Practice is crucial, especially if public speaking makes you nervous. Rehearse alone several times to get comfortable.
Presentation trainer Olivia Mitchell advises: “Rehearse your speech several times so as to desensitize yourself to your own words.”
Once you’ve mastered the content, practice in front of friends or relatives for feedback. The more you rehearse, the more natural and confident you’ll feel.
Q: What if I become emotional while speaking?
A: Expect emotions to surface. If you tear up, pause and breathe before continuing. The audience will understand. If the urge to cry builds, focus on your breathing until you can resume. It’s normal, and people will sympathize.
Q: How long should a eulogy for my dad be?
A: The average is three to six minutes. A eulogy should capture significant events, not the entire life story. Shorter speeches help maintain attention.
That said, some powerful eulogies last eight to 10 minutes. What matters most is sincerity. If your speech is longer, check with the funeral organizer to ensure it fits the schedule.
Q: What makes a beautiful or powerful eulogy?
A: A beautiful eulogy captures the essence of your dad and is delivered with emotion. Storytelling is key — detailed scenes and lessons allow the audience to feel his presence. Combine unique details with heartfelt delivery, and you’ll create a tribute that resonates deeply.
Q: What should I avoid including?
A: Avoid grudges, past arguments, flaws, or negative memories. A eulogy should celebrate life and character, not revisit conflicts. Keep the focus on positive stories, accomplishments, and values.
Examples of Eulogies for a Dad
Q: Can you share an example of a son’s eulogy?
A: Here’s one written from a son’s perspective:
“Today, we gather to celebrate the life of my father, a person who has been the main influential figure in my life for his remarkable achievements and ambition of leadership.
"My dad was not just a parent, but a symbol of what hard work and determination can accomplish.
"One of the things I admired most about him was his strong sense of determination. He, as an entrepreneur, had to deal with many people shooting down his ideas. Often, he was told he and his ideas were no good. ‘Don’t quit your day job,’ one person said to him.
"For every person who doubted him, he became more energized with perseverance. He would spend hours of the night researching and planning what he needed to do to start up his own business.
"Eventually, he found someone who saw the potential in his ideas and gave him a chance by loaning him the money he needed to start his business. Once my dad was given the funding to prove himself, he eventually became the CEO of his small start-up tech company.
"Through his example, he taught me never to doubt myself and my own abilities. Curiosity is what drives innovation. Innovation is earned through hard work and determination. I used these life lessons to help me achieve my goals and many more to come.”
Trustworthy's free eulogy writer: Let our app create a meaningful tribute
Q: Can you share an example of a daughter’s eulogy?
A: Here’s one written from a daughter’s perspective:
“Thank you all for coming here today for my dad. Today, I am deeply honored to be able to share my dad’s stories and that shows why he was arguably one of the nicest guys you or anyone would ever know.
"My dad was like no other. He was my father, but also a friend I could be open and honest with during times of uncertainty. As a licensed therapist, he knew how to listen and always had the right things to say to help me out of my downward spiral of negative self-doubt.
"Since the day he was born, he always had a big heart and desire to be there for others. He told me about the moment he knew his purpose was to be there for people. It was when he was in first grade, when one of his classmates fell and scraped his knee and was in pain.
"While he cried and the other kids watched, my dad came up to him and hugged him and wouldn't let go until the teacher arrived. This kind of loving behavior earned him recognition from teachers and his fellow classmates, but he didn't do it for recognition. He did it simply out of love.
"His compassionate heart is what led him throughout his journey in life. He met my mother on a mission trip in Africa, married her, and had me and my younger brother.
"Ever since I was little, my dad constantly told me how valuable I am and what good I can do for a world that needs healing.
"Even during times when I would make bad decisions, he never would ever hold a grudge. He would welcome me into his arms and say, ‘I forgive you.’
"My dad has since been what's anchored me in my religious beliefs. He may be gone now, but he will forever be in my heart until the day I meet him and his loving embrace again.”
The Bottom Line
Writing a eulogy for your dad may feel overwhelming, but by following clear steps — reflecting on memories, highlighting his values, organizing with care, and rehearsing your delivery — you can create a tribute that truly honors him.
A powerful eulogy doesn’t need to be long or polished. What matters most is that it comes from the heart. With thoughtful preparation, your words can comfort others and preserve your dad’s spirit in the memories of everyone who hears them.
Trustworthy's free eulogy writer: Let our app create a meaningful tribute
We’d love to hear from you! Feel free to email us with any questions, comments, or suggestions for future article topics.
