Ask yourself what qualities best describe your grandparent. Consider what set your grandparent apart from anyone else you know. If your grandparent had certain hobbies or passions in life, you may want to mention those. But there’s no need to make these the focus of your eulogy, as it should be primarily about the departed’s role as your grandparent.

When speaking with others about your grandparent, you may want to consider asking how and when they first met your grandparent (if there is no familial relation), what their favorite memories are with your grandparent, and what your grandparent’s best qualities were. The answers may vary greatly from your own list if the person was a friend rather than a relative of your grandparent, which can help you open your eulogy to include how others saw your grandparent.

As you begin writing down your memories, focus on writing a series of little truths. Avoid the big, sweeping declarations and focus on the little details that defined your grandparent or your relationship with your grandparent. [4] X Research source

Don’t write jokes. Remember that it’s still a funeral, but one or two humorous and well-placed anecdotes can help lighten the mood and make everyone remember the fond, happy memories they had of your grandparent. [6] X Research source

Consider having someone else read your eulogy beforehand and ask them if there’s too much of you in it. Having an outsider’s opinion may help you recognize ways to focus more on your grandparent and your relationship than on your subjective feelings. It’s fine for your eulogy to be short and sweet, and it can take any form you want it to. For instance, you can share a poem, a slideshow, or a brief memory that means a lot to you. [8] X Expert Source Rebecca Tenzer, MAT, MA, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS, CCATP, CCFPClinical Therapist & Adjunct Professor Expert Interview. 29 November 2021.

Try to keep the eulogy under five minutes, even if there is no explicit time limit. After five minutes most people find it difficult to keep listening, especially if they are overcome with grief.

It can help to keep in mind that giving a eulogy is as much about your healing as it is about the people in the audience. [10] X Expert Source Rebecca Tenzer, MAT, MA, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS, CCATP, CCFPClinical Therapist & Adjunct Professor Expert Interview. 29 November 2021.