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From the September 2004 American Speaker issue:
Instant Speeches
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Saving the best for last: Crafting eulogies that warm the heart
The ceremonies surrounding the death of President Ronald Reagan a few months ago were a reminder of how what began as an occasion of loss and sorrow can be transformed into a time of inspiration. When accompanied by the right words and sentiments, mourning can be healing, even uplifting. At the core of this experience is the eulogy.
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Use an appropriate quote or prayer
Sometimes it is easiest to begin or end with a quote—one that can be used as a bridging message from the deceased to the gathered mourners. For example:
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Learn from celebrity examples
Here are some examples of eloquent tributes—sometimes serious, sometimes light-hearted—paid by famous mourners to famous recipients. Study them carefully and you will find the seeds of inspiration for comforting words at humbler occasions:
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A speechwriter remembers Ronald Reagan
Finally, as an example of how an associate can pay his last respects to a respected superior—or a citizen to a beloved leader—I offer some excerpts from comments I was asked to prepare on the passing of Ronald Reagan himself, the president I served as director of speechwriting from 1981 through 1983:
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