sample thank you speech after funeral

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75 Examples of Funeral Thank You Messages

For the people who supported you in your time of grief, the below categories can help you write funeral thank you messages.

For Attending the Funeral For a Card or Kind Wishes For Flowers or a Wreath For Money and Donations For Bringing Food For Coworkers More

For Attending the Funeral

1. The funeral was difficult, but we needed to say goodbye and celebrate [name of lost loved one]’s time with us. Thank you for coming and supporting us in our grief. Your presence was appreciated and made this experience a little less difficult.

2. I cannot tell you how wonderful it was to see you among those who attended the funeral [the other day/some weeks ago]. Seeing you refreshed my distraught spirit like a glass of cold water on a hot summer’s day. Thank you for coming and for lifting my spirits.

3. Having you by my side at the funeral of our beloved [name of lost loved one] brought me such comfort. Not having to walk this path alone was the greatest gift I have been given in my life. Thank you so very much.

4. Thank you for caring enough to come to the funeral and for supporting my family in their time of sorrow. Grief is too heavy to carry alone, so your attendance helped lighten our load. The care and concern you showed are reminders that there are still good people in the world today. Thank you.

5. The day we had to say our final goodbye and lay [name of lost loved one] to rest was the day I feared greatly after [his/her] passing. How would I find the strength to endure this last goodbye? This was a constant source of anguish to me. Thank you for being there and ensuring that I had the chance to say a meaningful goodbye, full of happy and heartfelt memories of [him/her]. You made such a difference in my day. Thank you.

6. When those you usually seek comfort from are all grieving along with you, it can feel like you have no one to lean on for support. Thank you for coming to the funeral and for helping me. I had no idea how much I needed your presence to help steady me, and I genuinely appreciate your comfort.

7. To know how greatly loved and missed [name of lost loved one] will be brings me comfort and the inner strength to carry on. It gives me the desire to live each day with the kindness and warmth that [he/she] shared with us all. Thank you for reminding me of how loved [he/she] was at the funeral.

8. You stepped into my darkest hour and shone your light to help me make it through the most challenging funeral I have ever experienced. There is no way I could have done it without your support. Thank you for being there for me, and for all the comfort you provided. You saved me when I needed it most.

9. It was so meaningful to my family for you to share in our grief and support us at the funeral. To say goodbye to a loved one is never easy, so we are deeply grateful for your comfort. Your kindness and care were like a refreshing wind to our saddened spirits. Thank you.

10. To say the funeral was a joyous occasion is indeed an odd thing to say. However, after the sadness had washed away, you made sure that we basked in the memories and the joy from [his/her] life. The funeral was a day of celebration to celebrate a life that was so full and fruitful, and one that touched us all. Thank you for sharing that with us.

11. After making the arrangements for the funeral, deep despair gripped me. Everything was so final. Everything so sad. I didn’t know how I would face it. How would I make it through the emotion? How would I keep myself together? Please know that all these fears eased when I saw you, when you came to me with such kindness and warmth. You helped me to find strength I didn’t know I had. Thank you.

For a Card or Kind Wishes

12. It is easy to feel lonely when a loved one dies, like nobody understands. Being able to grieve along with you has been very soothing. Thank you for letting me know that I’m not alone.

13. Thank you so much for your touching card. Your words comforted our spirits in one of the most challenging times we have ever gone through. Your words spoke straight to my heart and were much appreciated.

14. Thank you for the card, remembering my dear [name of lost loved one]. Amid my numbness and suffering, you stepped in and were my rock. You will never be able to understand how much security you brought me in one of my most vulnerable moments. Death is a part of life we all must deal with at some point. I hope everyone has someone like you to walk along beside them in their time of need. Thank you!

15. Your thoughtful and well-chosen words brought me comfort at a time of deep sadness. They helped me to remember the brightness of [his/her] life, and how many people thought so highly of [him/her].

16. These past few days have been so surreal. Thank you for making us feel a little more grounded. Your kind condolences mean more than you know.

17. Your beautiful sympathy card deeply touched my family. Thank you for thinking of us during this time of sorrow. Your words eased our pain and ministered to our souls. Your sentiments expressed deep care and concern. Thank you. You were an encouragement to us all.

18. Thank you greatly for your support through my time of grieving. It has been a time of great sadness and loneliness, which has been lessened by your presence and support. Please know I am most grateful and will never forget your kindness.

19. During this time, I have realized how important your friendship is to me. Your words and actions have been so comforting. Thank you for all of the support and sympathy.

20. Your words of condolence were beautiful and comforted to my emotionally distressed soul. Thank you for being such a thoughtful and kind person and taking the time to write to me. Your card meant more than you could ever know.

21. The support and kindness you have shown me through this time of sadness and loss have been so welcome. My dearly departed [name of lost loved one] would have been so proud and thankful to you, knowing that [he/she] has gone, but I have been left in such capable and loving hands. Please know you have given me great comfort.

22. Thank you for your condolences. [Name of lost loved one] lived a great, long life, and [he/she] was so happy to have you in it. I am happy, too.

23. Your condolence card was beautiful, and I was so grateful for your words. It is easy to tell when words come from someone’s heart because they leap off the card and touch your own heart. Thank you for caring and taking the time to send your thoughtful note.

24. You have eased my pain, although my tears still flow often and freely, I know I can turn to you. I know I have support and solidarity. In my sorrow, and although it is still ever-present, I am content to know I have people like you to turn to. Thank you for your support during my time of loss.

25. You were a great friend to [name of lost loved one] throughout [his/her] whole life, and in death, you’ve been the same. Thank you for your kind and comforting words, which have helped us feel a little less of the loss of our dear [name of lost loved one] as we mourn.

26. Thank you for your beautiful words during this painful time. They were genuinely touching and beautiful. As I read your note, I thought about how it seemed as if you were reading my mind. Thank you for pouring comforting words into my heart. I will always remember your kindness.

27. When someone has left us, the sadness surrounds us all. To know that you stand with me and support me has been so uplifting and has given me the strength to face each day. Thank you.

28. I feel no one can ever really be ready to deal with losing a loved one, no matter how much they prepare. Your support helped me get through the most challenging days I have ever had. Thank you for being such a considerate person. I am deeply grateful for your kindness.

29. When we face the dark realities of life, we see who our real friends are. As I walked through this dark time in my life, you have been my greatest comfort through it all. The darkness would have consumed me if it were not for you. I am eternally grateful for your support. Thank you!

30. I wanted to express my gratitude for all the support and handholding you provided to get me through this challenging time. If it were not for you, I do not know if I could have faced the funeral. Your strength gave me the courage I needed when I was at my weakest. Thank you!

For Flowers or a Wreath

31. Thank you for the flowers that you sent. The flowers are so bright and beautiful in this hard time. [Name of lost loved one] loved to see the beauty in the world, and they would have enjoyed this gift from you.

32. When I saw the beautiful wreath you sent in memory of my [name of lost loved one], I was so touched. It was such a kind and fitting tribute to [him/her]. Thank you.

33. Flowers are always beautiful, but never so beautiful as when at a funeral. Their beauty somewhat lessens the sadness of the event. Thank you for sending such a lovely arrangement that brought beauty to our sorrowed hearts. We appreciated your kind gesture and wished to express our gratitude to you. Thank you.

34. Thank you for the most vibrant and beautiful flower arrangement in memory of my dear [name of lost loved one]. It lifted my spirit every time I looked at it. It reminded me of [his/her] vibrancy and made me think about the happy memories we had shared together. Thank you.

35. I wanted to send a note thanking you for the beautiful wreath you sent for the funeral. I was comforted by your kind gesture, and everyone mentioned how beautiful the wreath was. Thank you for your kindness and for bringing some beauty to my time of sorrow.

36. Deepest thank you for the thoughtful plant you sent to remember my [name of lost loved one]. To have a plant to grow and live on after this loss is a most thoughtful gift. This plant will become a symbol of [his/her] life for me, and I will think of [him/her] and your kindness whenever I see it. Thank you again.

37. I found the beautiful flower arrangement you sent for the funeral to be very touching. Knowing that you are thinking of me during this challenging time brought me comfort and strength. Thank you for brightening a very dark day with the beauty of your kindness and the flowers.

38. The wreath that you sent was so kind, and seeing it laid there among others at the funeral was such a visual reminder of how highly [name of lost loved one] was thought of among our friends, family, and the local community. Thank you very much for helping me to see the love that so many shared for [him/her].

39. You were so thoughtful to think of us in our time of sorrow. Your wreath was a perfect addition to the funeral, and your note showed your concern for my well-being in this time of loss. I received more than one comment on how lovely the wreath was, so thank you for the beautiful flowers. I also want to thank you for the comfort you brought me. You are very much appreciated.

40. To have my home filled with beautiful flowers was wonderful. To see them all bloom brightly for [him/her] made me often think of the love [he/she] shared with so many people and the lives [he/she] impacted. Thank you for taking the time to pick such lovely flowers and to send them to me. To be surrounded by this love and warmth helped me not only to think of [him/her] when I looked at them, but also to see how much support there is for me, and to know I am not alone in this darkest hour.

For Money and Donations

41. Thank you very much for your financial gift. Because of your donation, we were able to organize a lovely funeral for [name of lost loved one]. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.

42. Only someone who has been through a funeral can understand the financial burden it causes. I was grateful for your monetary contribution and was able to cover some of the funeral expenses. You have my deepest gratitude for your generosity in helping ease the burden. Thank you.

43. Thank you for the most generous and kind gift that you sent. It helped me to give [name of lost loved one] a goodbye that [he/she] deserved. The gift you have given will live on forever in my heart and memories, and has given me lasting comfort because I know that [he/she] had a funeral that [he/she] would have been proud of.

44. Your thoughtful contribution has greatly helped us with funeral expenses for [name of lost loved one]. We both know that they deserve the best, even after they’re gone. Thank you for donating.

45. When a loved one is lost, we feel the pain so acutely. Everything reminds us of them. Every day is hard to face. Finding inner strength, courage, and determination becomes a daily task. This has consumed me lately, the grief and despair at times so deep. I wasn’t thinking of navigating the practical side of things, like the financial impact of losing [him/her]. After receiving your kind donation, I realized that things were going to be okay financially. You really made a difference and allowed me to focus on [name of lost loved one] instead of finances. I send my most heartfelt thanks and gratitude.

46. Thank you for easing the financial strain after the loss of [name of lost loved one]. This was a time when I wasn’t thinking about money, but I certainly needed it. Your kindness allowed me to say the goodbye I needed to say, and the goodbye that [he/she] deserved. You gave me the greatest gift. Thank you so much. I am forever grateful and will remember your kindness, always.

47. Thank you so much for your generous donation to [charity]. [Name of lost loved one] had a huge heart and wanted to spread more kindness in the world. They would be so happy knowing that you donated. Thank you again.

48. Your generous donation to [name of lost loved one]’s favorite charity was touching. It is hard to think about them no longer being here, but what comfort it brings to know that your donation in [his/her] name will help many other people in need. Thank you for making that possible.

49. Thank you for your kind and thoughtful donation to [name of lost loved one]’s chosen charity. It was a cause so close to [his/her] heart and would give [him/her] great comfort to know that [his\her] memory lives on in such a worthy cause. As it does me, I know that [his/her] final act and wishes were to do good in the world, just like [he/she] always did. A perfect way to preserve a memory. Thank you.

50. Your donation to [name of lost loved one]’s charity was incredibly generous of you. Your kind-hearted gesture brought me great comfort. The chosen charity is such a wonderful cause. I hope that it goes on to make a difference in someone else’s life. It brings me comfort to know that although [name of lost loved one]’s chapter has sadly closed, it may open a new one for someone else. Thank you so much.

For Bringing Food

51. There’s nothing more comforting than a warm homemade meal and eating together around the table. Thank you for bringing us food. It means more than you know during these difficult times.

52. It was moving that you thought about my family’s food needs during our time of sorrow. With the pain of losing [name of lost loved one], we would have forgotten to eat. Your delicious gift of food was precisely the thing we needed to make it through a hard time. Thank you for caring.

53. Thank you so much for bringing us some home-cooked meals. Even small tasks take lots of effort right now, so your contribution has made a big difference.

54. It has been a tough few weeks, but having your delicious meals ready for us to eat has made things easier on us. Thank you for the food. It was very soothing.

55. Your food was good for the tummy and for the soul. Thank you so much for your help in making life easier for us right now. Thank you again.

For Coworkers

To an Individual Coworker 56. Thank you for being a great coworker as I’ve been going through this loss. You’ve always comforted me when I needed it and made sure we were still on track at work. You went above and beyond for me, and I’m so grateful for you.

57. These last few weeks have been such a struggle for me. I do not think there is any way I could have prepared for what I just walked through. Your beautiful sympathy card and touching words encouraged me in a difficult time. Your care was a great comfort to me. Thank you.

58. I always knew you were a loyal coworker, but now I know that you are also a compassionate friend. Thank you for encouraging me during this difficult time.

To a Group of Coworkers 59. Thank you for being such a kind and caring group of coworkers and sending the [beautiful flowers/delicious fruit basket]. Your actions have shown me that we have a strong community, and we can always count on each other. I appreciate all of your support.

60. I wanted to thank you all for the support you showed in the loss of my loved one. The [beautiful flower arrangement/delicious fruit basket] you provided for the funeral was a visual reminder of your concern. I am grateful for your support during these difficult times and the kindness you have shown me. Thank you all.

Acts of Service or Support 61. Thank you so much for dedicating your time to us this week. With your help, we were able to make funeral arrangements for [name of lost loved one]. [He/she] would have loved to see us working together and supporting each other as you did. Thank you again.

62. During this time of deep sadness, you lightened the load and gave us the priceless gift of your time so we could focus on what needed to be done due to the loss of [name of lost loved one]. Truly and sincerely, thank you for [task].

63. The loss of a loved one is tough to go through alone, and it has been a struggle. I am so very grateful to have you in my life. Thank you for everything you did to make the funeral go as smoothly as it did. I am deeply indebted to you for your kindness and generosity.

64. My mind is slowly starting to clear, and I am starting to be able to think straight. I do not know how I could have made the funeral plans without you. Thank you for helping me plan everything. You were really there for me, and I will never forget it.

65. We never really know how losing a loved one will affect us, but this loss has hit me hard. Your faithfulness to me in checking on me was a beam of light in my darkness. Thank you for taking the time to understand where I was and caring enough to meet me there.

66. It is unbelievable the way that a loss can completely interrupt your life and take over everything. Thank you for helping maintain sanity in my life by stepping up and [buying my groceries/watching the kids/task done for you]. It was a huge relief to me during a difficult time. I am thankful that I have you in my life, and I am deeply grateful for your support.

67. Watching my loved one suffer was one of the hardest things I have had to do in my life. I cannot tell you how touched I was by your care for them. Your gentleness, kindness, and loving attention brought me comfort when I could personally do very little to help them. Thank you for everything that you do to care for [him/her].

68. When a person is dying, some people find it hard to be around them because it reminds them of their mortality. However, being faced with mortality did not stop you. Thank you for all your visits and the care and concern you expressed for [name of lost loved one] in [his/her] last days. You encouraged [him/her] and us more than you will ever know. You have our deepest gratitude.

Giving a Eulogy 69. Thank you deeply for giving a eulogy for [name of lost loved one]. Your words were touching, and you helped us celebrate [his/her] life in a way I will never forget. I know that somewhere up there, [name of lost loved one] listened and enjoyed it too.

70. To lose a loved one is one of life’s biggest challenges because they are gone from this earth, but our love for them remains with us. We were grateful that you could make it to the funeral. Your presence was a comfort to all. We also want to thank you for the loving words spoken at [name of lost loved one]’s funeral. Your comments were moving and beautifully honored [his/her] memory. We are grateful to you.

To the Funeral Director or People in the Funeral 71. You have such a crucial job, and you probably do not get thanked often enough. It is comforting for a family in sorrow to know that you have taken care of everything. Thank you for stepping up and doing such an excellent job for my loved one’s funeral. There was not one thing left out, and for that, I am incredibly grateful.

72. Thank you for the support and kindness you showed my family in our time of sorrow. We will always remember your presence at the funeral and your service as a pallbearer. We are deeply indebted to you for the kindness you have shown us.

73. It was hard to say goodbye to [name of lost loved one], whom we loved so dearly. Thank you for the kind words in your eulogy. We all knew how wonderful [he/she] was, but your touching sentiments reinforced what we believed. The love and appreciation you expressed moved us all. We offer you our deepest gratitude.

74. I am writing to offer you my deepest gratitude for the beautiful and moving music you provided for [name of lost loved one]’s funeral. Music is an integral part of shaping the environment at a funeral, and you did an incredible job. You have my deepest gratitude and appreciation for the sharing of your musical gift.

75. Pastor, we wanted to send you a note to thank you for all your support and encouragement you gave us in our time of sorrow. Your kind and caring demeanor gave us strength in a trying time. I do not think that we would have made it through this trying time without you. Thank you, and God bless you!

Losing someone can be an emotionally traumatic experience. Traveling through the stages of grief can be painful and emotionally devastating. The first stage begins with denial, where numbness and isolation take over your reality and a sense of lacking in care occurs. Second, anger sets in towards the individual that passed away or those involved in any health treatment. The next stages are bargaining, depression, and acceptance. These can be some of the most complicated, leading to unresolved issues that torment the individual with remorse and guilt, to depression and sadness, until finally, acceptance and healing occur and they can move on.

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Funeral Thank You Notes: 21 Wording Examples

A funeral is always an emotional and incredibly difficult time. Having lost a loved one you are feeling dazed and crushed. But soon after a funeral you might start to think about sending your funeral thank you cards.

When people have shown their support, be that through sending you a card or message of sympathy , flowers or just being at the funeral, you will probably want to thank them.

But knowing what you say or write in your thank you notes can be hard. How do you express the appreciation you feel for the support shown during such a tough time.

If you’re struggling with your funeral thank you notes then this guide will show you what to write, when to send them and some useful wording examples amongst much more.

Hopefully it will give you the confidence and any help that’s needed to make the process of sending sympathy thank you notes that much simpler.

Table of Contents

Funeral Thank You Wording

Whilst you can write your thank you cards any way you want, the following guide is a good template for how to construct a simple note of thanks:

• Start your thank you note by addressing the recipient – “Dear ______” is the standard greeting and works perfectly for a message of thanks
• Next thank them for their support, condolences, gift or whatever way they were there for you. Something simple like “thank you so much for thinking of me during such a difficult time. You words were really comforting when I need them most”
• Follow this with a thoughtful sentiment or few words about how they helped – “I will never forget your support and friendship”
• End your note or card by possibly saying thanks again or something like “All my love” before signing your name (handwritten rather than printed)

Your note doesn’t have to be anything particularly special but just ensure it acknowledges whatever it was the recipient did and offers your thanks.

Sample Thank You Notes for After a Funeral

The example thank you messages here are split into different categories – thank you for attending the funeral, for helping with it, for flowers, money/donations and condolences.

Thank You Wording for Attending the Funeral

When sending a note to someone who attended the funeral, be that family, friend or acquaintance, make it clear you appreciated them being there and any effort it may have taken them to come.

Dear ______,

Thank you so much for being at the funeral. It was really important to us for you to be there and we know it would have meant the world to [the deceased’s name].

******************

We were so pleased you could make the funeral and even more so to hear the wonderful memories and stories you shared. To remember [deceased’s name] in such a heartwarming way was so appreciated by the entire family.

We were touched greatly have you attend [deceased’s name]’s funeral. He/she would have definitely wanted you there, without a doubt. Thank you for your support.

Your presence at [deceased’s name]’s funeral was greatly welcomed. We wanted all his/her friends to be there so it wouldn’t have been the same without you. Thank you for making the effort.

Thank You for Helping with the Funeral Notes

Thank those who help plan or arrange the funeral with these message examples.

Thank you for all your help with planning the funeral. We couldn’t have done it without you.

When you volunteered to help it took such a burden off my shoulders. It made a huge difference and allowed for everything to go smoothly. I really appreciate the assistance, thank you so much.

Kind regards,

The planning of the funeral was very stressful so having someone to take on some of the load was a relief. Thank you for all you did, I won’t forget it.

Many thanks,

You made a really hard day that bit easier. Thank you for your help and support, it was truly appreciated.

Wording for Money

If someone made a donation or sent a gift then these thank you note samples will show you how to offer your gratitude for their kind gesture.

We can’t find the words to thank you enough for your donation. It has eased so much pressure off of us during this awful period and we appreciate it enormously.

Thank you so much for your generosity. It was such a kind gesture and one we truly appreciate.

Your donation in the honor of [deceased’s name] was absolutely amazing – a really heartwarming gesture. As a family we were so pleased to see how much he/she meant to you.

Such a thoughtful donation has not gone unnoticed. We were both shocked and thrilled to see your incredible generosity. Our thanks and gratitude.

For Funeral Flowers

Many people send flowers to a funeral. Use these thank you messages to show your appreciation for a beautiful bouquet.

We are so grateful for the lovely flowers you sent to the funeral. They were beautiful and really helped brighten a tough day.

All our love,

Thank you for your beautiful arrangement. It was so thoughtful and we are beyond grateful to have received it.

The gorgeous flowers you sent were just perfect. To have your support and love throughout this time has been a blessing.

I know that [deceased’s name] would have loved the flower arrangement you sent. Thank you for a lovely gesture.

Sympathy Thank You’s

You will probably have received some messages of condolence , so thank those people for their kind words with these notes.

Thank you ever so much for your kind words and thoughts. It’s been incredibly difficult so knowing friends are there during our hardest moments is

I can’t express how touched I was by your card and kind words. It means the world to me to receive such support at this time. Thank you for everything.

It’s at the toughest times that real friends show their worth, and having you there for support and a shoulder to cry on has been invaluable. I will never forget it.

All my love,

Condolence Thank You Notes

Thank you for your warm condolences. It’s been so hard to try and find any comfort but having friends like you is a real blessing.

Thank you for reaching out and for showing such understanding. Your card was a kind and thoughtful gesture, one that helped during such a difficult period.

Tips for Writing Your Thank You Notes

• Don’t worry about making your notes impressive and very ‘wordy’ i.e long. Short and to the point is ideal. Be honest and speak from the heart and that will be good enough.
• If you have a large number of thank you’s to write and send and so need some help you can buy packs of thank you notes with prewritten messages printed in them. If you decide to go this way then try to include a short personalized message too.
• Even if it’s been some time since the funeral has happened don’t worry about it being too late to send your notes. Ideally, if you can, you’d send them within a few weeks of the funeral. But people will understand if you’re busy with other things during such a difficult time and so if it takes longer than that they won’t mind.
• If the list of people to thank is just too long or overwhelming then don’t be afraid to ask for some help. A family member or close friend will be glad to offer some assistance in getting through them all.
• If you do take some time with sending your notes then remember to sign your full name or include your last name. This is especially key for those you aren’t that close to or know that well.
• If you would prefer to sign your note “from the family of…” then that’s perfectly fine. Often thank you notes are sent on behalf of a family instead of one single person. However if the flowers, gift, card etc. was addressed to you directly then you can just sign your own name.

Acknowledging the time, effort and thought that went into friends and loved ones involvement in a funeral is not only polite but should be rewarding.

Hopefully the funeral thank you note examples provided here will have helped you to write your own notes and make it clear how much you needed and appreciated their support.

Sally Collins is a writer and the founder and owner of Sympathy Message Ideas. Her passion is to help others deal with grief and provide assistance with talking to those grieving.  Learn more about Sally .

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51 Thank You Message After Funeral Samples (Heartfelt & Inspiring)

After the funeral, it can be difficult to know what to say in a thank you note. These sample messages will help give you an idea of how to word your thoughts and express your gratitude. Whether you send a handwritten note or an email, these sentiments will show your appreciation for those who attended the funeral and supported you during this difficult time.

#1 Thank you for coming to the funeral and showing your support. We all need our friends when we grieve, and it means a great deal to my family and me that you were there. Thank you for letting us know we aren’t alone in our time of need.

#2 The other day was difficult to get through but knowing I had friends like you by my side fighting alongside me made the pain a little less intense. Now that [name of lost loved one] is gone, I will carry him/her in my memories forever. Thank you for celebrating [his/her] life with us and helping us be strong even when things seemed bleak.

#3 Thanks for attending the funeral; it meant more to me than words can express. Your presence was the best thing you could have done for me at a time when my heart felt as though it had been ripped from my chest. I will never forget how kind and supportive you were to my family and me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being there for us.

#4 Thank you so much for coming to support me at [name of lost loved one]’s funeral. Seeing your face gave me some peace amidst this difficult time, and I am grateful that we can be there to help each other through these terrible experiences. Thank you again for your kindness during our loss.

#5 Thank you for coming to the funeral of our loved one. It was comforting to see you among the crowd, and your presence reminded us that we are not alone on this journey of grief. Having you there made all the difference in providing some measure of comfort during this difficult time.

#6 Thank you so very much for attending the funeral of our beloved [name of lost loved one]. Although I am sure your schedule is very busy, it meant a great deal to me that you took the time out of your day to be with us. Your support has been invaluable, even if it is just being here with me now as I write this thank-you note. Thank you again for supporting my family and honoring my lost loved one’s memory.

#7 I cannot tell you how grateful I am that you were able to attend [name of lost loved one]’s funeral. We all needed a friendly face in the crowd, and seeing your smiling face brought me comfort during an otherwise trying time. Thank you so much for being there with us on this sad day.

#8 Thank you for attending [name of lost loved one]’s funeral. You have no idea how much it meant to me that you would take the time out of your busy schedule to be there with my family during this difficult time. Your kindness has given me some measure of hope at a point where I was feeling hopeless. Thank you again for coming and for supporting my family during their time of need.

#9 I cannot thank you enough for coming to the funeral and for supporting me and my family in our time of need. Allowing us to grieve together was a great relief and the sympathy you showed brought tears to my eyes (again). Your kindness was very much appreciated and will not be forgotten.

#10 Thank you so much for being there at the remembrance service [or funeral, if held]. Your continued support is very much appreciated by me and those people who love me as well as those who loved [name] too. We all felt your presence as we said farewell to someone we cared about so deeply. Thank you again, really! I just want to say once more how thankful we were that you came here today/yesterday/and shared this moment with us.

#11 Thank you for coming to the funeral and supporting me as I said my final goodbye to [name]. The fact that you were there helped ease my heartache just a little bit. I could tell that it meant a lot to my family too, so thank you from all of us for showing up.

#12 Thank you for allowing me to cry on your shoulder and offering me a safe place to land. I truly appreciate your words of wisdom and encouragement. I know that nothing any of us does or says can bring [name of lost loved one] back, but it seems as if you somehow knew what we needed during this time. Thank you for providing it.

#13 We know that there were many other people who wanted to attend the funeral who could not make it because they were busy with their own lives and responsibilities. We thank everyone for their kind wishes and prayers – all have helped see us through this difficult period in our lives.

#14 It was so good having friends like you at the funeral! Although we are still struggling to cope with our loss, your support meant the world to us. Thank you for sharing in our pain and grief; we are thankful that you were there.

#15 I cannot begin to tell you how much it meant to me knowing I was not alone at the funeral of our beloved [name of lost loved one]. You lifted my shattered spirit with your generous visit. Thank you very, very much!

#16 Having supportive friends like you at the funeral helped bring closure to this dark chapter in our lives. We will never forget your kindness and generosity during this difficult time. May God bless each of you for helping us through this trying period in our lives.

#17 Thank you so much for attending the funeral services of [name of lost loved one] – it is great comfort knowing he was loved by so many people. Thank you for helping us through this trying time; your compassion and support has been greatly appreciated.

#18 Thank you for setting aside your own grief in order to attend the funeral of [name of lost loved one]. Your healthy presence was appreciated more than you know. We thank you profusely for coming and sharing in our sorrow; we know that there were others who wanted to be there but could not make it.

#19 I cannot begin to tell you how much I appreciate your kind thoughts and words during such a traumatic time in my life. You have no idea how much it meant to me knowing [that] [you] came all the way from [place] just to attend the memorial service/funeral for [name of lost loved one]. We send our love and appreciation.

#20 I am so grateful for your thoughtful words and generous presence at the funeral services for [name of lost loved one]. Your support has helped me get through this dark period in my life; I will never forget how much it meant to me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

#21 Thank you for attending the memorial service/funeral and sharing your wonderful memories about [name of lost loved one]. It means a lot to us that we can finally say goodbye after such a long period of time waiting to lay him to rest. May God bless your entire family.

#22 Your kind presence was greatly appreciated, especially at such a sad time as this. The overwhelming grief I felt upon losing our beloved [name] seemed a little lighter knowing so many people came to pay their respects. Thank you for being there – I cannot put into words what your support meant to me.

#23 I have been going through so much lately and your visit, card, and generous donation were more than I could ever ask for during this dark time in my life. May God bless you as you go on with your lives. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

#24 Your presence at the memorial service/funeral was absolutely wonderful to behold. You lifted our spirits by sharing those wonderful memories about our daughter/son . We thank you from the bottom of our hearts; we needed that more than anything else right now…

#25 When I saw you at the funeral, you lifted my spirits and brought a smile to my face. It is a feeling that will never leave me as long as I live. Thank you for coming and showing your support.

#26 When I see your name on this card, it brings warmth to my heart—overflowing with gratitude for being there by my side during those dark hours. Words cannot express how much it meant to have you share in our grief as we said goodbye to [name of lost loved one]. You shall always have a special place in my heart, so thank you from the depths of mine.

#27 Having someone who cares enough about you to show up at the funeral despite their busy schedule is a gift beyond measure. Thank you for bringing a smile to my face during a time that was anything but happy. Seeing you at the funeral meant everything and then some. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

#28 When I see your name on this card, it brings warmth to my heart—overflowing with gratitude for being there by my side during those dark hours. Words cannot express how much it meant to have you share in our grief as we said goodbye to [name of lost loved one]. You shall always have a special place in my heart, so thank you from the depths of mine.

#29 I don’t know what I would have done if you hadn’t made the time to come pay your respects at the funeral. There are no words strong enough to convey just how grateful I am for your kindness, but please know that it has touched my heart. Thank you so much for being there with me.

#30 Having your presence during this difficult time meant more than I can say or tell you. The strength and love of family is a true blessing, and having you by my side was a gift from God himself. May our paths cross again soon.

#31 We want to thank you so very much for attending the funeral of [name of lost loved one]! You were missed more than anyone could imagine but thankfully everyone had the chance to say goodbye. Your support has helped us tremendously in this difficult time and will never be forgotten.

#32 Thank you for making the funeral of our beloved [name] so special. Your heartfelt speeches, hugs, tears, laughter and memories are the shining stars that lead us home when we are lost. Thank you for being there!

#33 I cannot thank you enough for coming to the funeral of [name]. Having all my loved ones with me was a truly heartwarming experience. You have no idea what your presence at the service meant to me and my family. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

#34 When we got the news of the loss of our beloved [name of lost loved one], I didn’t think that I could go on. And yet, because you were there with me at the funeral, helping me to support my family and friends through this difficult time, I was able to face it. Thank you for being a friend when I needed one most.

#35 I cannot tell you how much your presence meant to us during those trying days after the death of our dear [name]. Your kind words and empathetic demeanor reminded us that we were not alone. With so many people coming to pay their respects, we felt as if our close-knit community had come together in a loving embrace around us. Thank you for showing us so much kindness.

#36 I am eternally grateful that you were there for me at the funeral. Your encouragement and positive spirit lifted my spirits amidst all of this sadness. I hope that you know how special you are to us, because if not already, then know now that you will always be in our hearts. Thank you for your love during these hard times.

#37 Thank you for supporting my family and me through this difficult time in our lives. Our dear [name] was taken away from us too soon, but knowing we had people who cared helped heal the heartache just a little bit more. We felt blessed by your presence and generosity at this most important moment in our lives, so thank you for being part of it with us.

#38 Thank you for walking this difficult path with us. The days surrounding the funeral were dark and lonely, but your comforting words and warm embrace gave us the strength to keep going. Thank you for being a true friend in our time of sorrow.

#39 You have touched my heart in a way that I cannot describe. Your love and support during this difficult time have been such a blessing to me and my family. You made it possible for me to be able to say goodbye to [name], so thank you from the bottom of my heart for caring enough to come to pay your respects at his/her funeral.

#40 I am glad we got the chance to catch up at the funeral while we paid our last respects together. It was an emotional day, but it was nice to see your familiar face amid the sea of strangers. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to be there for my family and me in our dark hour.

#41 I cannot begin to tell you how much it meant to me that you were there at the funeral of our beloved [name]. Our community has become so small, but knowing that I had people like you on my side brought comfort during these hard times. You are a true friend who will always have a place in our hearts.

#42 You will never know how much it means to us that you came all the way from [place] just to be at this difficult time with us. The overwhelming outpouring of love from those around me made this process easier, yet I am forever grateful that you were part of it with me.

#43 Your words of comfort at the funeral were like a salve for our raw grief. Our hearts are broken, but your presence meant so much to us during this very sad time, and I hope you know how much it means to us that you cared enough to come to pay your respects.

#44 Thank you so much for being there on the day of the funeral. The entire experience was surreal, and I can’t imagine having gone through it all alone. Thank you again for caring so very much about my family and me in our hour of need.

#45 I am just writing this letter to thank you again for coming to the funeral on such short notice. It was wonderful knowing that I had someone to lean on when I was at my lowest. Thank you again for your kindness.

#46 I cannot express enough gratitude that you were there to grieve with me during the funeral of our dear [name]. The entire experience has been draining, but knowing that I had your unwavering love and support by my side gave me strength. Thank you once again for everything.

#47 Thank you for being there for us during this difficult time in our lives. It meant so much to have someone who understood what we are going through during these dark days after the death of our loved one. You are a true friend, and I hope you know how grateful we are to have you as part of our lives.

#48 Reaching out like this means more than words can express. Being able to grieve together during this difficult time was a blessing, and I am glad we had the opportunity to share our grief with one another. Thank you again for being there for my family and me.

#49 You were by my side through all of the pain that no parent ever wants to experience. Even though it has been weeks since [name]’s passing, I still find myself thinking about him/her every day. You helped me get through this darkest period of my life without a moment’s notice, and I hope you know how truly thankful I am for your support.

#50 The death of our son/daughter has taken an unbelievable toll on us both, so it means so much knowing that you are always there if we need to talk. Thank you for always being willing to listen, and thank you again for coming to the funeral.

#51 I know I am not the only one who is suffering right now, but knowing that you are feeling some of what we are going through makes things feel slightly more manageable. Thank you again for your support during this difficult time.

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Heartfelt Funeral Thank You Notes Examples and Templates

It is common practice to send funeral thank-you notes after the service. If you are creating a funeral thank you note, this article will greatly help you write it well. Read through the available examples and templates to kick-start your work!

What Is Funeral Thank You Notes and Why It Is Important?

Funeral thank you notes, also sometimes referred to as sympathy thank you notes, are notes or cards that are sent to those who have offered condolences or support following the death of a loved one. 

The purpose of these notes is to express gratitude for the kind words, actions, and support provided by the recipients during difficult times. 

Thank you notes after a funeral is important for a few reasons. 

First, they are a way to express gratitude to those who have provided support and comfort. This can include attendees of the funeral, those who sent flowers or other condolences, and anyone who helped with the funeral arrangements.

Second, thank you notes can also serve as a way for the bereaved to acknowledge and process their grief. Writing a thank you note can be a small but meaningful step in the healing process, as it allows the writer to reflect on the support they received and to express their appreciation for it.

Third, thank you notes also serve as a form of closure for the bereaved. It’s a way of saying goodbye and officially closing the chapter of the loved one’s passing.

Sending thank you notes is also a polite and customary practice that is expected by many, and it is a way to honor the loved one and the people who are showing their love and support.

Getting Started Tips to Create Funeral Thank You Notes

When it comes to writing thank you notes after a funeral, taking the time to express your gratitude to those who have provided support and comfort during this difficult time is an important way to honor your loved one and show your appreciation for the kindness of others. 

Here are a few tips to help you get started with writing thank-you notes after a funeral:

• Keep a list of everyone who sent condolences or provided support. This can include people who sent flowers, donations, or messages, as well as those who helped with the funeral arrangements or provided other forms of assistance.
• Set aside some dedicated time to write the notes. It’s best to do this when you are feeling relatively calm and composed, rather than trying to write them in the midst of your grief.
• Use personalized and specific language. Instead of generic phrases, express your gratitude in a heartfelt and sincere manner. Mention something specific about the person or the way they helped. You can include a funeral poem to make it more touching.
• Be timely. Try to send the thank you notes out as soon as possible after the funeral or memorial service.
• Brevity is key. A simple acknowledgment of the kindness shown through gifts, meals, and condolences is all that is needed. Remember, those receiving the notes understand the difficulty of the situation and a short note is more than sufficient. A heartfelt thank you in just a sentence or two will do the trick.

Delivering the Funeral Thank You Note

Before we get to the examples, let’s touch a bit on how to deliver funeral notes. There are a few different ways to deliver or send funeral thank-you notes:

Traditional Mail  

You can send the thank you notes through the mail by addressing and stamping them and dropping them off at your local post office. This method may take longer to reach the recipients, but it can be a more personal touch and allows the recipients to keep the notes as a keepsake.

Email  

If you prefer a more efficient method of sending the thank you notes, you can use email. This can be a quick and easy way to send the notes, especially if you have a large number of recipients.

Hand Delivery  

If you have the opportunity, you can also hand deliver the thank you notes. This can be especially meaningful if you are able to visit the recipients in person and express your gratitude face-to-face.

Group the thank you note  

Another option is to send a group thank you note, either via email or traditional mail. This can be especially useful if you are sending thank you notes to a large number of people, or if you are unable to send individual notes.

Ultimately, the most important thing is that the notes are sent in a timely manner, and that the recipients feel acknowledged and appreciated for their kind gestures during your time of grief.

Do we need to send the funeral notes to everyone?

It is not necessary to send funeral thank you notes to everyone who attended the service or sent condolences. 

However, it is a good idea to send them to anyone who sent a gift, provided support or assistance, or helped in any other way. 

It is customary to send thank you notes to those who sent flowers or made a charitable donation in memory of the deceased.

Funeral Thank You Note Wording Templates

10 funeral flowers thank you note wording templates.

• “Thank you for the beautiful flowers you sent in memory of [name]. Your thoughtfulness and kindness will always be remembered.”
• “We are so grateful for the love and support you have shown us during this difficult time. Your flowers were a comforting reminder of the love and memories we shared with [name].”
• “We would like to express our deepest appreciation for the stunning flowers you sent to honor the memory of [name]. Your thoughtfulness and compassion mean so much to us.”
• “Your kind words and beautiful flowers have brought great comfort to us during this difficult time. Thank you for remembering [name] with such love and care.”
• “We are so touched by the lovely flowers you sent to celebrate the life of [name]. Your thoughtfulness and sympathy have meant the world to us.”
• “The flowers you sent in memory of [name] were truly beautiful. Your kindness and support have been a great comfort to us during this difficult time.”
• “Your flowers were a beautiful tribute to the life of [name]. We are so grateful for your love and support during this difficult time.”
• “The flowers you sent in honor of [name] were a beautiful reminder of the love and memories we shared. Thank you for your thoughtfulness and kindness.”
• “We were so touched by the beautiful flowers you sent to celebrate the life of [name]. Your love and support have meant the world to us.”
• “Your flowers were a beautiful reminder of the life of [name]. Your sympathy and support during this difficult time has been greatly appreciated.”

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10 Funeral Thank you notes for Providing funeral food

• “We are so grateful for the delicious meals that were provided for us during this difficult time. Your kindness and generosity will always be remembered. Thank you.”
• “We would like to express our deepest gratitude for the delicious food that was prepared for us during the wake. Your thoughtfulness and kindness will never be forgotten.”
• “Thank you for the beautiful spread of food that was provided during the funeral service. Your kindness and compassion was a great comfort to us during this difficult time.”
• “Your generosity and kindness in providing food during this difficult time is greatly appreciated. The meals were a source of comfort to us and we are truly grateful.”
• “Your thoughtful gesture of providing food for the wake was truly appreciated. The meals were a source of comfort to us and we are grateful for your kindness.”
• “We would like to extend our sincerest gratitude for the delicious meals that were provided during the wake. Your kindness and generosity will never be forgotten.”
• “Thank you for the delicious spread of food that was provided during the funeral service. Your thoughtfulness and kindness helped to ease the pain of our loss.”
• “We appreciate the outpouring of love and support that was shown to us through the provision of food during this difficult time. Thank you for your kindness.”
• “We are grateful for the warm meals that were provided for us during the wake. Your generosity and compassion were a great comfort to us.”
• “We would like to express our deepest thanks for the beautiful spread of food that was provided during the funeral service. Your kindness and generosity will always be remembered.”

10 Funeral Thank you notes for the Donations

• “We are so grateful for your generous donation in memory of [deceased’s name]. Your kindness and thoughtfulness during this difficult time means more to us than words can express. Thank you.”
• “We would like to express our deepest gratitude for your donation in honor of [deceased’s name]. Your generosity and support during this difficult time is greatly appreciated.”
• “Thank you for your kind donation in memory of [deceased’s name]. Your generosity and support during this time of loss is deeply appreciated.”
• “We are so grateful for your donation in honor of [deceased’s name]. Your kindness and support is a source of comfort during this difficult time.”
• “We appreciate your thoughtfulness and generosity in making a donation in memory of [deceased’s name]. Your kindness is a source of strength during this difficult time.”
• “Your donation in honor of [deceased’s name] is a meaningful gesture and a source of comfort during this difficult time. Thank you for your generosity.”
• “We are deeply touched by your donation in memory of [deceased’s name]. Your kindness and support is greatly appreciated during this difficult time.”
• “We are grateful for your thoughtful donation in honor of [deceased’s name]. Your generosity and support is a source of comfort during this difficult time.”
• “We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for your donation in memory of [deceased’s name]. Your kindness and thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated during this difficult time.”
• “We appreciate your generosity in making a donation in honor of [deceased’s name]. Your support during this difficult time is greatly appreciated and will be remembered.”

5 Funeral Thank you notes for Work Colleagues

• “We are so grateful for the outpouring of support from our coworkers and colleagues during this difficult time. Your kind words and donations have meant the world to us and have helped us through this difficult time.”
• “We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our boss and colleagues for their unwavering support and condolences during this difficult time. We appreciate the food, flowers and donations made in honor of our loved one.”
• “We are deeply touched by the outpouring of love and support from our coworkers during this trying time. Your kind words, thoughtful gifts, and donations have been a source of comfort to us and have helped us through this difficult period.”
• “I just wanted to reach out and express my gratitude for all the kind words and support you’ve offered during this tough time. Your thoughtfulness has meant so much to me and my family.”
• “I can’t even begin to express how much your condolences and support have meant to me during this difficult time. Thank you, team, from the bottom of my heart.”

Thank You Note Templates For The Funeral Home Team

Funeral thank you message template for the funeral director.

Dear [Funeral Director’s Name],

I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the support and care you provided during the recent loss of my [loved one]. Your attention to detail and compassion throughout the planning and execution of the funeral service was truly appreciated.

From the initial consultation to the final goodbye, you helped guide me and my family through the difficult process with grace and understanding. Your professionalism and kindness will never be forgotten.

Thank you again for your unwavering dedication and for helping us honor the memory of our [loved one]. We truly appreciate everything you did for us.

[Your Name]

Funeral thank you message Template for the funeral musicians

“Dear [Musician/Singer’s Name],

We cannot thank you enough for the beautiful music you provided at [deceased’s name] funeral. Your talent and dedication truly added a special touch to the service and helped to create a meaningful and memorable tribute to [deceased’s name]. Your presence and performance brought comfort and solace to our family during this difficult time.

Thank you again for your kindness and for being a part of honoring [deceased’s name] life.

[Your Name]”

Funeral thank you message Template for the pallbearer

Dear [Name],

I wanted to take a moment to extend my deepest gratitude for your service as a pallbearer during [deceased’s name] funeral. Your presence and support during this difficult time meant the world to me and my family. Your willingness to step up and honor [deceased’s name] in this way will never be forgotten.

Thank you for your kindness and thoughtfulness.

End of Article

We hope this article helps you to write and deliver meaningful thank-you notes to those who have kindly shown their support or attended your loved one’s funeral. 

it’s okay to take your time to write and send the notes, as the grief and healing process can be different for each person. 

With a little thought and care, you can create funeral thank-you notes that are a fitting tribute to your loved one and a comforting reminder of the love and support you received.

Remember your loved ones with a beautiful online memorial website.

Gary Kisela

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65 Thoughtful Thank You Note Messages After Funeral

After a funeral, you and your family may want to send thank-you note cards or messages to express gratitude to friends, family, the pastor, the funeral director, etc.

During this challenging time, you likely received emotional support, food, flowers, or donations in memory of the deceased. 

The wording of the funeral thank-you note messages can be challenging, especially while grieving. 

What Do You Write in a Thank You Note After a Funeral?

The goal of the funeral thank you note is to acknowledge the gift, food, sympathy, etc. Most people will understand that you are grieving and may not feel up to writing long thank-you notes. Two or three sentences are fine. 

Here are a few tips for when you are writing handwritten thank-you notes:

• Mention the deceased by name in the note. And sign your full name to help the recipient know whose funeral the note is regarding, or add “on behalf of the Jones family.”
• Be as specific in your note as possible for what you are thanking them for.  Change your wording based on whether you are saying thank you for the food, flowers, support, etc. Or who you are thanking, such as the pastor, pallbearers, church staff, etc. 
• A  personalized note can be included on the blank side of a note with printed text. Or you can order funeral thank-you note cards that are blank inside.
• You may want to email coworkers a thank you if you do not have their home addresses (or you could hand-deliver a note if working on location with them).

There are plenty of examples of thank you messages for funerals below, split by who and what you are saying thank you for. 

You can find examples to thank the pastor for the funeral service here . 

Short Funeral Thank You Messages

I recommend writing handwritten notes after a funeral. However, there may be times when you want to say thank you before writing thank-you notes. For example, you may want to respond to a sympathy text message or thank someone that brought food immediately. 

Here are some things you can say:

• Thank you for your love and support. 
• Thank you so much for dropping off the casserole.
• We appreciate your prayers during this challenging time. 
• Thank you for your kind words. 
• I’m so glad you’re in my life. Thank you for being there for me. 
• You’re a great friend. Thank you for providing dinner for my family. 
• Thank you for helping me organize the funeral for ____. 

Who Writes the Funeral Thank You Notes?

Who writes the thank you notes can depend on who passed away. Funeral thank-you notes can be challenging to write when grieving the loss of your loved one .

Usually, the closest relatives will write thank-you notes after a funeral. However, it is acceptable etiquette for funeral thank you notes to have others help write them.

Also, if many gifts, memorial donations, flowers, food, or anything was received, you can split up the thank you note writing. 

My mom and her siblings split the thank-you notes when my grandma passed away. And they tried to write the notes for the sympathy gifts given to them. For example, there were many beautiful floral arrangements at the funeral home from friends that only knew my mom. So my mom wrote the thank-you notes to her friends.

Tip: If you are writing the thank you notes on behalf of your family or friend’s family, you can sign them with your name on behalf of the Deceased’s family. For example, Heidi, on behalf of the Jones family.

The funeral thank you notes should be sent out within a couple of weeks of the funeral. However, that’s just a guideline, and it’s okay to delay writing while grieving.

For general help with funerals, check out the Funeral Resources site .

Should I Write a Thank-You Note to Those That Came to the Funeral but Did Not Give a Gift or Donation?

It is unnecessary to thank everyone who came to the service, visitation, or calling hours but did not give flowers, donate, or give any other type of gift.

However, you can thank someone for coming to the funeral. If a guest book was used at the funeral, you should have the name and address of everyone that attended the funeral.

Some funeral homes will sell pre-printed memorial cards with lovely poems or Bible verses. With these cards, you can sign your name or the family’s name on the card, with or without writing a thank you message.

I appreciate this type of note, even though it is not required etiquette.

Should I Send a Thank-You Note for Every Sympathy Card?

All funeral cards do not need to be acknowledged. Emily Post recommends responding with a thank you note when a personal note is written on the card.

However, you can say thank you for any sympathy cards if you’d like! 

Related:   25 Sympathy Thank You Notes for Cards, Messages, Gifts, and Flowers

Bereavement Thank You Note Examples

Dear [Person’s Name]

Thank you for your support when my mother passed away. Your comforting words meant a lot to me. The card and your note were touching.

#2 I appreciate the sympathy card, note, and flowers you sent when [Person’s name] died. You’ve always been thoughtful; I’m glad you are in my life. I am grateful for your support during this difficult time.

#3 Thank you for the beautiful card and for sharing your story of when your sister passed away. Losing my sister has been very hard, and your words provided comfort. Thanks for being there for me!

#4 Thank you for going to the funeral home with me to help make arrangements for my mom. She was very special to me, and I am glad you could go with me. It all felt overwhelming. Your support helped me get through the planning details. The service turned out very well because of your help.

#5 You are such a strong, loving person. Thank you for helping me when my dad died. I am glad you came over to make sure I was eating the food dropped off by others. I am grateful for your support.

#6 Thank you for being my best friend and being there once again when I needed help. The funeral went as well as a funeral could go, and I was thankful to have you by my side. And I appreciate the cards and phone calls checking on me.

#7 You’ve been a true friend as my family has dealt with my mother’s funeral. Your presence has been a comforting blessing during this time of loss. The entire family asked me to pass on their sincere appreciation for everything you have done for us.

Related: 30 Thank You For Your Support During This Difficult Time Messages

Funeral Thank You Notes For Money or Donation Thank You Messages

The example wording in this section will help you with memorial donations made in memory of the deceased.

Sometimes funeral donations are made to an organization in lieu of flowers. The organization could be Hospice or the local Humane Society. It will be whatever the deceased requested.

It’s also possible that money will be given when someone passes. In your thank-you note, you can write what the money was used for or if it was passed on as a donation.

​Dear [person’s name],

Thank you for donating to Hospice in memory of [name of deceased]. We were grateful for the support of Hospice near the end of her life. Also, thank you for coming to the funeral. [Name of deceased] shared many stories about you with the family recently.

[Your name or family of [deceased]

#2 We appreciate your generous donation to the Humane Society in honor of Uncle Joe. Joe was a dog lover his whole life and would be happy knowing that more dogs would be helped.

#3 Thank you for the money at the time of Betty’s passing. Your contribution was given to the American Heart Association as Betty was a long-time supporter of their research.  Also, thank you for attending her funeral.

#4 The monetary donation you made at John’s funeral is appreciated. The family used it to help cover the funeral expenses. We are grateful that John had such a wonderful boss in you. He spoke highly of you often.

#5 Thank you for your generous gift at the calling hours for [Person’s name]. I am grateful for the monetary support, as his passing was unexpected. Your donation was used towards the expenses.

​ #6 We are grateful for your monetary support during this time. The money you donated was used to cover dinner and snack food for the family during the calling hours at the funeral home. The entire family thanks you!

#7 Thank you for donating in Betty’s honor instead of flowers. Betty was passionate about [organization name or cause]. Betty often talked of you and how wonderful of a friend you were to her.

#8 The entire family thanks you for your very generous donation to the church in memory of Julie. We are also grateful for your prayers and warm words of comfort and support during this difficult time. You are a true friend.

#9 Thank you for the money for the funeral services for my parents. It’s been a very sad time for the family, losing both of them in the same week. Your presence and support have been appreciated by all of us. Also, thank you for the beautiful flower arrangement.

#10 We greatly appreciated your generous gift to [organization name] in honor of [deceased’s name].

Funeral Flowers Thank You Message Wording

There are examples below for funeral flower thank-you notes, and these sayings will help you express your gratitude. 

Dear [person’s name],

The flowers for Betty’s funeral were beautiful. The arrangement of purple carnations and white lilies was stunning, and Betty would have loved them. Thank you for your kindness and for remembering the family.

#1 We appreciated the roses at my grandma’s funeral. Roses were her favorite. Roses will always remind me of Grandma.

#2 Thank you for the beautiful flower arrangement sent to the funeral home for my sister’s funeral. She loved tulips, and I loved that you chose my favorite color for them. I will plant them outside soon. Each year, when they bloom, will be a pleasant reminder of you and my sister.

#3 I am grateful to have you as a friend. The flowers remembering my grandpa are lovely. Thank you for caring about my family and me.

#4 The family appreciated the lovely flowers for Aunt [Aunt’s Name]. The arrangement was unique, and my aunt would have loved them. Thank you for showing your support and sympathy through the flowers.

#5  Thank you for sending flowers to the funeral home for my mom’s funeral. They were beautiful and I appreciated your kind words on the card. 

Related: Thank You Notes for Funeral Flowers Messages and Tips

Thank You Notes for Funeral Food

This section provides example thank you note messages for any funeral food. Food is one way that sympathy and support are expressed. 

Food could be brought to the funeral home for calling hours or after the funeral. Sometimes there is a meal provided at the church or another location.

It’s also possible that people brought food to your home to help during your time of grieving.

Related :  Thank You Notes For Funeral Food: A Simple Guide with Examples

Dear [Person’s Name],

Thank you for organizing the food for the calling hours. The church has been a real blessing to us during this difficult time. The family loved the chicken wings and side dishes.

Thanks again,

The Jones family

#1 I felt overwhelmed when [Name of deceased] passed away. The casseroles you brought over were great! I lived on them for weeks and may not have eaten otherwise. Thanks for being there for me.

#2 The meal after the funeral at the church was delicious. Thank you for hosting the family and providing all the food. Food is such a comfort in times like this. We shared many memories of [Name of deceased] during the meal.

#3 Thank you for arranging the pizza for my family during the weekend of my mother’s passing. The pizza was a blessing, with many family members visiting from out of state. We were happy to eat together at home without figuring out what to eat. Also, thank you for coming to the funeral.

#4 My family is thankful for the meals provided when my husband passed away. This has been a tough time for us. The children were glad to have some of their favorite comfort foods. Your support has been a bright spot for all of us.

#5 The casseroles you provided for the meal after the funeral were great. The enchilada and lasagna casseroles were big hits. Thank you for giving us this comfort food.

#6  We are grateful for the food you provided for the family at the funeral home. The children enjoyed the snacks, and we were happy not to be concerned about what they would be eating. So again, your kindness is very much appreciated.

Funeral Thank You Note Messages to Coworkers or Boss

Note:  If you are thanking a group of coworkers at the same time, you may send them all one email. Also, in the examples, you can replace “coworkers” with “boss” as appropriate for your notes.

Template #1 – funeral thank you message to your team

Thank you for sending flowers to the funeral home. The arrangement was beautiful, and I felt touched that the team remembered me during this difficult. I will see you all when I return to work after settling Mom’s affairs.

Kind Regards,

[Your Name]

Template #2 – funeral thank you message to your coworker or boss

Dear [coworker or boss’s name]

Thank you for coming to my dad’s funeral. His passing was very hard and unexpected. Your support was appreciated.

Best Regards,

#3 I have the best coworkers! Thank you for the flowers sent to the church for my grandma’s funeral. They helped me to know that you were thinking of me while I was out of the office. I also appreciate all the work that was covered for me while I was out.

#4 I am thankful to have you as a coworker. Your presence at the visitation was appreciated. I am grateful that we have become not only coworkers but friends.

#5 You are a very thoughtful person. Thank you for coming to the visitation and funeral for my mom. As you know, her passing was very hard on me. As my boss, I appreciate all of your support as my mother slowly declined during the past few months.

#6 Thank you all for coming to the funeral last week. I am thankful I could be away without worrying about my job and if my work would get covered. We have the best team!

Funeral Director Thank You Note Examples

Funeral directors are usually helpful when the time comes to make arrangements for a loved one. So I commend you for wanting to thank your funeral director during this difficult time. Below you will find example thank-you notes to help you get started.

When my mother-in-law died unexpectedly, we relied on the funeral director. He helped us with death certificates, the cremation process, transportation of the deceased, and filing the obituary with the local newspaper. This is a small list of what funeral directors can do. Read more about funeral directors here .

Another idea for wording examples is to browse funeral home websites that share thank-you notes as testimonials. If you look at the site for the funeral home you use, just be sure that you do not exactly copy someone’s note and then give it to them. It’s possible that they would recognize it as being from their website!

If you worked with several people, addressing the note to the funeral home staff is exemplary.

Template #1 – to the staff

Dear staff of [funeral home name],

Thank you for helping us through the process from beginning to end. We were not prepared for Mom’s death. We appreciate all the support from the entire staff. Having food delivered during the long day of calling hours was a fantastic idea. The family was thankful to step away for a bite to eat while taking a break.

The [your last name] family

Template #2 – to the funeral director

Dear [Name of funeral director],

Thank you for ensuring all the details of my Aunt [aunt’s name] funeral went smoothly. When she asked me to be her representative upon her passing, I was unsure what that would entail. However, I was glad for your help with the obituary and obtaining death certificates.

#3 I want to thank you for all the time you spent with my family. Explaining each step helped us make decisions and feel in control of a challenging situation. Thank you for arranging for [name of deceased] to be taken to the church. Having the funeral at the church she attended for over 50 years was important to the family. Your suggestion to make a DVD with photos worked out very well, as family and friends enjoyed viewing it during the calling hours.

#4 Thank you for everything you and your staff did for [deceased name’s] funeral. The room was the perfect size for the funeral, and the organist did a great job playing the hymns. Everything went as well as possible, given the situation. I appreciate that you could organize the pallbearers, as that part was too stressful for me.

#5 We appreciate the kindness of all of the staff during the calling hours and the funeral for my grandma. She was a special lady, and I am thankful everything went smoothly. The family also appreciated the snacks on hand for the calling hours.

#6 We felt blessed to have you as our funeral director. Thank you for everything you did to make sure that everything went smoothly. We will recommend you to other families when they need a funeral director.

#7 Thank you for being a fantastic funeral director! I wasn’t aware of how much happened behind the scenes until my dad passed. Your knowledge and expertise helped make the process feel manageable.

Pallbearer Thank You Note Message Examples

Notes: Serving as a pallbearer can be an honor to the deceased at their funeral. If you’d like to send the pallbearers a thank-you note, some samples are below.

Thank you for serving as a pallbearer at Paul’s funeral. He requested to have you as a pallbearer many years ago. I appreciate you serving in this way.

#2 Grandma will be missed. We are grateful that you were able to serve as a pallbearer. Grandma told us how much she enjoyed your visits over the years.

#3 Thank you for being a last-minute pallbearer at Jane’s funeral. Her youngest son is doing better now, but the grief was too much for him at the funeral. We are glad you could stand in and help out in this way.

#4 Greg enjoyed spending time with you. A few days before he passed, he asked us to ask you to be a pallbearer when the time came. Thank you for honoring his request.

#5 Thank you for coming to Mr. Smith’s funeral. We are glad that you were willing to be a pallbearer. Mr. Smith would have appreciated it too. We are thankful you were there with us to help celebrate his life.

#6 Thank you for serving as a pallbearer at my dad’s funeral. I loved all the time you spent fishing with him during the last few years of his life. He asked for you to be one of the pallbearers, and the entire family appreciates that you were able to help.

#7 Thank you for being a pallbearer at Bob’s funeral. You were one of his best friends for many years, and we are grateful that you could help carry his casket.

Thanking the Funeral Musicians or Singers

Remember that a thank-you note is in addition to fees paid to the organist or other musician. The fee is sometimes paid to the funeral home, and then they pay the musician(s). Whatever the arrangement is, a thank you message does not replace their fee. 

#1 Thank you for playing the organ at my mom’s funeral. She would have enjoyed the hymns you selected. The music played before the funeral felt peaceful. We appreciate you serving in this way.

#2 You are an outstanding organist. The family was grateful that the funeral home had you on staff for funerals. Aunt Jane loved organ music her whole life, and we are glad the funeral home had an organ to help fulfill her final wishes.

#3 Attending Scott’s funeral was heartbreaking. However, hearing the beautiful piano music was calming. Thank you for being there and playing the requested music.

#4 Your performance of Amazing Grace was beautiful. I understand why Grandma asked you to sing a solo! Your ability to make it through without crying was impressive. I know how much you loved her and will miss her.

#5 Thank you for coordinating all of the music for Jane’s funeral. We felt very overwhelmed. All of us appreciated your experience. And thank you for singing the two solo pieces that Jane requested.

Thank You for Coming to the Funeral Messages

Notes:  The samples in this section are to thank people that came to the funeral or visitation. And not another gift or donation (examples for coming + gift are mixed in through the examples above this section).

#1 Thank you for coming to the funeral [and visitation].

Tip: This may be enough wording if you use a pre-printed notecard from the funeral home and want to include a handwritten note. There may be people you are writing messages to that you do not personally know. A short note is okay!

#2 Thank you for attending the funeral and visitation for [Person’s name]. Your presence was appreciated, and I think you for your kind words of encouragement.

#3 I want to thank you for being at the funeral. Having you there was a comfort to the family. We all love you and appreciate your support of the family.

#4 I am thankful to you for attending the funeral and visitation for [Person’s name]. [Person’s name] loved spending time with you, and I enjoyed hearing your stories during the visitation.

#5 Thank you for coming to the funeral for [Person’s name]. Your support during this difficult time has helped me tremendously. Thank you for all you do for me !

Related Posts:

• 39 Pastor Appreciation and Thank You Note Examples
• Thank You to a Church Musician (organist, praise band member, etc.)
• 21 Short Thank You For the Donation Note Examples

Author: Heidi Bender

Title: writer, expertise: thank you notes.

Heidi Bender is a writer and author who founded Tons of Thanks. She aims to help people write thank-you notes by providing examples and tips. She is the author of She is the author of A Modern Guide to Writing Thank-You Notes.

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A complete guide to funeral thank you etiquette.

Knowing who to send thank you notes to and who can go without after a funeral can be confusing. For example, should you send thank you notes for funeral flowers? Should you send a thank you note to someone who made a long journey to attend the funeral? Funeral thank you etiquette isn’t black and white and it’s a good idea to follow some general guidelines, but to go with your gut if you feel like someone deserves a thank you note.

Who do you write thank you notes to after a funeral?

Here are some folks you should consider sending thank you notes to after a funeral:

• Anyone with a job at the funeral (pallbearers, speakers, religious leaders, etc.)
• Those who made memorial donations or provided financial assistance
• Those who chose to show support in other ways (such as bringing you food, covering chores and household tasks, helping at the funeral, or went above and beyond in other ways)
• Any religious members who presided over the funeral
• Those who sent flowers
• Anyone you feel you’d like to send a thank you note to

Should you send a thank you note for a sympathy card?

You do not need to send a thank you note to someone who sent you a sympathy card. You are welcome to send a thank you note thanking them for thinking of you, but it’s not expected or required. Thank you notes are typically sent to those who have gone above and beyond sending a sympathy card.

What are the best ways to send a thank you note after a funeral?

Writing physical funeral thank you notes and funeral thank you cards used to be the best and most common way to send acknowledgements after a funeral. In today’s world, sending thank you notes after a funeral has never been easier, especially if you’ve created a memorial website for your loved one.

If you have a memorial website, you can send out thank you notes to those who RSVP’d and to those who contributed to your memorial website. You also have the option of sending out a mass thank you note that goes to everyone who contributed to your memorial website if you’d like to make the process a bit more efficient. If you still want to send out physical thank you notes, you can easily send a message to anyone who has contributed to your memorial website requesting their physical address.

If you don’t have a memorial website yet (or want to thank those who aren’t on the memorial website), writing a handwritten note or sending an email are both great alternatives.

Should I send a thank you note to the church?

It’s customary to send a thank you letter to church members after the funeral, especially if you used the church as a venue or if they were supportive and helpful during your time of need. Letters of appreciation to the church after a funeral can generally consist of thanking them for their use of the venue, their leadership and guidance, and anything else you feel is worth mentioning in the letter.

Sample sympathy thank you notes

If you’re looking for inspiration or guidance on how to write a thank you note, you can find some examples below. Feel free to use these examples and change or alter them to fit your unique situation or need.

Sympathy thank you notes to coworkers

[First name],

Thank you for taking the time to attend the services for [first name]. Our family was so happy to finally meet you as [name of decedent] spoke about you frequently. [He/she] would’ve been glad to know you were able to attend.

Best, [Name]

Sympathy thank you notes for funeral food

Dear [name],

Thank you so much for the wonderful [list food] you shared with us last week. It meant so much to us to know that we didn’t have to worry about meals during this difficult time. The [specific dish] was delicious. Your support means the world to us.

Best, The [Family name] Family

Dear [Name],

I wanted to reach out to you personally and thank you for sharing that wonderful [dish] with our family. It meant so much that we were on your mind and that you took the time to show your support. It was delicious and we are thankful to have you as a close friend.

Always, [Your name]

Sample thank you notes for funeral donations

If you’re writing out a thank you note you’d like to send to all those who donated to your memorial fundraiser (assuming you have one on Ever Loved), here’s a suggestion on what you could say:

Thank you so much for taking the time to visit [Name’s] memorial website and for making a contribution towards [cause]. Your donation helps us to pay for [list out expenses, or something general], and we wouldn’t have been able to do that without your generous support.

All our love, The [Family name] Family

If you’re writing a thank you note to someone special or an individual who chose to donate to in memory of your loved one, you could say something like:

[Name of donor],

I wanted to send along a thank you note to let you know how much it meant that you donated towards covering [deceased’s name]’s funeral expenses. Our family would not have been able to afford [deceased’s name’s] beautiful service if it wasn’t for the generosity of people like you. [Deceased’s name] was so, so fond of you, and I know this would’ve meant a lot to [him/her] too.

Thank you, [Your name]

Sympathy thank you letter to church members after funeral

There are a few different scenarios in which you may find yourself writing a thank you note or letter to the church. If you’re writing to the church staff to thank them for letting you use their venue or to thank them for general support, here’s an example:

Dear [name of church] [team/staff],

Thank you so much for hosting our family, friends, and loved ones as we remembered the life of [full name]. Your support and help during this time has been invaluable to our family and we are blessed that we were able to hold services in this place [first name] called home.

Thank you, [Your family name]

If you’re writing a letter of appreciation to the church after the funeral for services provided by religious leaders or clergy (for leading the service, for example), here’s what you could say:

Our family would like to thank you, sincerely, for officiating [full name]’s services this past [day services took place]. The service was beautiful and truly inspired all that attended, we were honored to have you speak and lead the services for all involved. Thank you to you and [other clergy members] who supported our family during this time, it has meant a lot.

Warmly, [Your family name]

No matter what you decide to write or who you’re sending a funeral thank you note to, being authentic and appreciative is an easy way to ensure the note gets the right tone across. If you haven’t yet, setting up a memorial website on Ever Loved is an easy way to send out thank you notes to everyone who donates to a cause of your choice. Setting up a website is quick, easy, and free.

Create a memorial website

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What to Write in a Thank You Note After a Funeral (& Who to Send Them To)

Last Updated: October 30, 2023 Fact Checked

• Who should you send notes to?

Example Funeral Thank You Notes

How to write a funeral thank you card, sending the notes, sample messages, expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Tami Claytor and by wikiHow staff writer, Carmine Shannon . Tami Claytor is an Etiquette Coach, Image Consultant, and the Owner of Always Appropriate Image and Etiquette Consulting in New York, New York. With over 20 years of experience, Tami specializes in teaching etiquette classes to individuals, students, companies, and community organizations. Tami has spent decades studying cultures through her extensive travels across five continents and has created cultural diversity workshops to promote social justice and cross-cultural awareness. She holds a BA in Economics with a concentration in International Relations from Clark University. Tami studied at the Ophelia DeVore School of Charm and the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she earned her Image Consultant Certification. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,275,252 times.

When a loved one passes the living can be left with quite a deal to do, including acknowledging all the help and kindness they’ve received. Writing thank you letters can be daunting, but we’ve done our best to find you the easiest, most heartfelt ways to express your thanks. Your notes don’t have to be long and complicated, one or two sincere sentences is enough to convey how you feel. We’ll walk you through how to choose what to say to anyone who came, plus give you some concrete examples. You’re going to get through this.

Things You Should Know

• Send thank you notes to people who helped with the funeral, made monetary donations, or gave gifts like food or flowers.
• Don’t feel obligated to send thank you cards after a funeral. They’re a nice way to show your appreciation, but your mourning should come first.
• Write short, specific messages to thank them for what they did (or gave you), and consider adding a personal anecdote about your relationship or their relationship to the deceased.

Who should you send thank you notes to after a funeral?

• Thank people who brought gifts and flowers or made monetary donations to your family or to a charity in the name of your loved one.
• Some people also send thank yous to the professionals who helped with the funeral—either people in religious orders or funeral home staff members.

• If someone sent you a note, you can just say: Thank you for your note, your words were very touching.

• If you’re especially close to the person you’re thanking, sharing a personal anecdote or story from the life of your loved one is a kind way to show your appreciation (but isn’t strictly necessary).

• Good phrasing for a monetary donation might read like "Thank you for your generosity in our time of grief. The donation in honor of _______ means a lot to us." [4] X Research source

• If you’re very close with someone you don’t have to put either of your full names, except for in the address.

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.funeralbasics.org/simple-tips-writing-funeral-thank-you-notes/
• ↑ Tami Claytor. Etiquette Coach. Expert Interview. 29 September 2020.
• ↑ https://condolencemessages.com/funeral-thank-you-notes-what-to-say/

About This Article

To write a thank you note to someone after a funeral, write a few sentences thanking them for thinking of you during this hard time and letting them know it meant a lot to you. If you're close to the person, you could include an anecdote or story from the deceased's life to make the note more personal. It's also nice if you mention what the person contributed after your loss, whether it was flowers, food, or a donation. For more advice, like how to prepare and send your thank you notes, keep reading. Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Deliver a Heartfelt Funeral Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

Funeral speeches play a crucial role in honoring the life of a loved one who has passed away. They provide solace to grieving family members and friends, while also sharing the essence of the person’s life and their impact on those around them. A well-crafted eulog y captures the unique qualities of the deceased, allowing attendees to relive fond memories and celebrate the individual’s life.

Writing and delivering a heartfelt eulogy can be a daunting task. The pressure to create the “best eulogy ever” can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with your own grief. The internet is filled with various funeral eulogy examples, from funny eulogy examples that highlight the person’s wit to deeply emotional tributes. Famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks have set the bar high.

Finding the perfect balance between honoring the person’s life and providing comfort to loved ones can be challenging. In this step-by-step guide, we will explore how to write and deliver a heartfelt funeral speech, drawing inspiration from eulogy examples and famous eulogies to help you pay tribute to your beloved family member or close friend.

II. Understanding the Purpose of a Funeral Speech

A. honoring the deceased.

A funeral speech is an opportunity to honor the deceased by highlighting their unique qualities, accomplishments, and the impact they had on the lives of others. The best eulogy ever would capture the essence of the person’s life and character, creating a lasting tribute that resonates with attendees. Famous eulogies, such as Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks, serve as inspiring examples of how to pay homage to a loved one.

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B. Comforting the bereaved

One of the primary purposes of a funeral speech is to provide comfort and solace to the bereaved family and friends. Sharing fond memories, funny eulogy examples, and heartfelt stories can help lighten the atmosphere and offer consolation to those in mourning. A well-crafted eulogy helps celebrate the person’s life while acknowledging the pain of their passing, striking the perfect balance between grief and happy memories.

C. Sharing memories and stories

A funeral speech allows you to share personal experiences and stories about the deceased, creating a tapestry of memories that paint a vivid picture of their life. Drawing from short eulogy examples and famous eulogies like Mona Simpson’s eulogy for Steve Jobs and Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson can help illustrate the impact one person can have on the lives of many. By sharing these stories, a funeral speech can create a sense of connection and closeness among the attendees, reminding us all of the special bond we shared with our beloved family member or close friend.

III. Gathering Information and Memories

A. talking to family and friends.

Before diving into writing the best eulogy ever, it’s essential to gather information and collect memories from family and friends of the deceased. This can help provide a more comprehensive understanding of the person’s life, character, and impact on others. Conversations with close friends and family members can reveal heartwarming stories and funny eulogy examples that might not be known otherwise. These anecdotes can help paint a vivid picture of the deceased, making the eulogy more authentic and relatable.

B. Reflecting on your own experiences with the deceased

In addition to gathering information from others, take the time to reflect on your own experiences and earliest memories with the deceased. This will allow you to recall fond memories and special moments you shared together. Consider how much one person’s life has influenced your own and what lessons you’ve learned from them. Personal stories and experiences can make the eulogy more genuine and create a deeper connection with the audience.

C. Organizing your thoughts

Once you’ve collected stories and memories from family, friends, and your own experiences, it’s time to organize your thoughts and determine the structure of your eulogy. Review various funeral eulogy examples, including famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks. Draw inspiration from these examples while keeping your eulogy unique and tailored to the person you are honoring.

As you organize your thoughts, consider incorporating elements from short eulogy examples, such as quotes, poems, or specific phrases that capture the essence of the person’s character. For instance, Cher shared a beautiful eulogy at Sonny Bono’s British memorial service, where she provided hope and comfort through her words.

By combining the gathered information, personal experiences, and inspiration from various eulogy examples, you can create a heartfelt tribute that honors the memory of your beloved family member or close friend.

IV. Structuring Your Funeral Speech

A. the opening: setting the tone.

Start your eulogy with an opening that sets the tone for the entire speech. You may choose to begin with a quote that represents the deceased, a personal anecdote, or simply an expression of love and admiration. Take inspiration from famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, or Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks. The opening should capture the essence of the person’s character and create an emotional connection with the audience.

B. The body: sharing stories and memories

Personal anecdotes.

In the body of your funeral speech, share personal anecdotes that illustrate the person’s life and the impact they had on others. These stories can be drawn from your own experiences, as well as those shared by family and friends. Personal anecdotes help paint a vivid picture of the deceased and offer a glimpse into their personality and values.

Humor and light moments

While grief is a natural part of any funeral speech, incorporating humor and light moments can provide relief and comfort to the bereaved. Funny eulogy examples, such as John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman or Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson, demonstrate how laughter can be a powerful healing tool. Be sure to balance humor with sensitivity, ensuring that your jokes and anecdotes are appropriate for the occasion.

Lessons learned and values cherished

Share the lessons learned and values cherished by the deceased throughout their life. This can include their beliefs, passions, and the wisdom they imparted on others. Referencing short eulogy examples or famous eulogies like Mona Simpson’s eulogy for Steve Jobs can provide inspiration for this section of your speech.

C. The closing: expressing gratitude and hope

In the closing of your funeral speech, express gratitude for the time spent with the deceased and the happy memories you shared. Offer hope for the future by sharing how the person’s life will continue to impact others, even in their absence. Use powerful words and phrases to create a lasting impression, aiming to make your eulogy one of the best eulogies ever.

Drawing from funeral eulogy examples, like Cher’s beautiful eulogy at Sonny Bono’s British memorial service, can help you find the perfect balance of heartfelt emotion and hope. By incorporating elements of famous eulogies and personal stories, your funeral speech will pay tribute to your beloved family member or close friend while providing comfort and solace to those in attendance.

V. Tips for Writing a Heartfelt Eulogy

A. be authentic and genuine.

When writing a eulogy, it’s essential to be authentic and genuine in your words and emotions. The best eulogy ever is one that comes from the heart and truly reflects the person’s life and character. Draw inspiration from funeral eulogy examples and famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks, but make sure to infuse your own unique voice and perspective.

B. Use descriptive language

Using descriptive language in your eulogy helps paint a vivid picture of the person’s life and experiences. By employing vivid imagery and evocative words, you can bring memories to life and create a more immersive experience for the audience. Descriptive language can enhance even short eulogy examples, making them more memorable and impactful.

C. Focus on the positive aspects of the deceased’s life

While acknowledging grief and loss is important, focusing on the positive aspects of the deceased’s life can provide comfort and solace to those mourning. Share fond memories, happy moments, and the positive qualities of the person to celebrate their life and legacy. Funny eulogy examples, like Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson or John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, show the power of humor in highlighting the positive aspects of a person’s life.

D. Keep it concise and organized

An effective eulogy is concise and well-organized, guiding the audience through the person’s life and experiences while maintaining their attention. To achieve this, make use of keywords and phrases that capture the essence of the person and their impact, such as “fond memories,” “beloved mother,” “best friend,” or “so much fun.” Drawing inspiration from famous eulogies and eulogy examples can help you structure your speech and ensure that it remains engaging and focused. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful eulogy that pays tribute to your loved one and leaves a lasting impression on those who hear it.

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VI. Preparing for Delivery

A. practice reading your speech.

To ensure that your eulogy flows smoothly and resonates with the audience, practice reading it aloud several times before the funeral. This will help you become familiar with the text, allowing you to convey your message with confidence. As you read, consider the pacing and tone of your speech, ensuring that it aligns with the examples of great eulogies you have researched.

B. Anticipate emotions and have a backup plan

Delivering a eulogy can be an emotional experience, especially when recounting fond memories of a close friend or family member. Anticipate the emotions that may arise during your speech and have a backup plan in place, such as pausing to compose yourself or asking someone else to continue reading on your behalf if needed. By preparing for these moments, you can ensure that your tribute remains heartfelt and genuine.

C. Speak slowly and clearly

When delivering your eulogy, speak slowly and clearly to ensure that your message is easily understood by all attendees. As you share stories and memories, use descriptive language and keywords like “best eulogy ever,” “funny eulogy examples,” and “fond memories” to paint a vivid picture of the person’s life. Drawing from famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks can help you find inspiration for your delivery style. By speaking with clarity and conviction, you can create a powerful tribute that honors the memory of your loved one and leaves a lasting impression on those present at the funeral.

VII. Delivering the Funeral Speech

A. establish a connection with the audience.

Begin your speech by establishing a connection with the audience. Acknowledge the shared sense of loss and grief, and express your gratitude for their presence. This will create an atmosphere of empathy and support, setting the stage for your eulogy.

B. Maintain eye contact and use body language

As you deliver your speech, maintain eye contact with the audience and use appropriate body language to convey your emotions. This will help you engage with the attendees and create a more immersive experience. Be mindful of your posture and gestures, ensuring that they reflect the tone and content of your eulogy.

C. Be mindful of your tone and pace

When delivering your funeral speech, be conscious of your tone and pace. Use keywords like “best eulogy ever,” “funeral eulogy examples,” and “fond memories” to guide your delivery. Draw inspiration from famous eulogies such as Earl Spencer’s eulogy for Princess Diana, John Cleese’s eulogy for Graham Chapman, and Oprah Winfrey’s eulogy for Rosa Parks. Speak slowly and clearly, allowing your words to resonate with the audience.

As you share stories and happy memories, adjust your tone to match the emotion of each anecdote. Strive to strike a perfect balance between honoring the person and acknowledging grief, taking cues from examples like Mona Simpson’s eulogy for Steve Jobs and Frank Oz’s eulogy for Jim Henson.

In conclusion, delivering a heartfelt eulogy is an important task in honoring the life of a close friend or family member. By following these tips and drawing inspiration from famous eulogies and eulogy examples, you can create a beautiful tribute that captures the essence of the person’s life, character, and special bond with their loved ones. Remember to be authentic, use descriptive language, and pay tribute to the person’s life and fond memories while providing hope and comfort to those in attendance.

VIII. Example Eulogies

  a. sample funeral speech for a parent.

Good afternoon, everyone.

Today, we come together in shared sorrow and collective admiration to bid farewell to a wonderful woman, my beloved mother, Susie. We gather here not only to mourn her passing but, more importantly, to celebrate the truly exceptional life she lived and the countless lives she touched in her time with us.

Susie was a woman of endless charm, warmth, and resilience – characteristics that deeply influenced my upbringing and those of my siblings. She had an uncanny ability to bring a sense of joy and peace to any room she walked into, even in times of chaos and confusion. With her radiant smile, she had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and appreciated. She was our North Star, the one who always guided us, always there to help us find our way back when we were lost.

When I think of my mother, a few memories immediately surface.

There was the time, in the depths of a harsh winter, when the neighborhood children were all huddled inside their homes, escaping the frosty chill. On that day, Susie gathered us all for an impromptu snowman-building competition. It wasn’t about the competition, but the unity, the shared laughter, the frostbitten fingers, and the warm cups of hot cocoa after that made it memorable. It was an embodiment of what she was to us all – a beacon of warmth, love, and unity.

Then there was the instance when I came home heartbroken from a failed math test. I remember the tears streaming down my face, the feeling of utter disappointment in myself. But Mom, she didn’t judge or criticize. She held me close and said, “In life, my dear, it’s not about the mistakes we make but how we learn from them.” And with her unwavering support, we tackled those equations together until they were no longer foreign to me. That was Susie, always there to pick us up when we stumbled, to turn our setbacks into comebacks, to show us that failing wasn’t the end but rather a chance to rise stronger.

Susie was also the core of our family, the glue that held us all together. She kept us rooted, reminding us about the importance of love, respect, and understanding in the family. Despite her struggles, despite the storms life threw at her, she never faltered in her dedication to her children and her unwavering faith in us. She was our greatest cheerleader, our most profound teacher, and our fiercest protector.

Losing her has created a void in our hearts, a silence in our lives that cannot be filled. But as we grieve, we also remember. We remember her laugh, echoing in the corners of our home. We remember her wisdom, imprinted deep within our hearts. And we remember her love, a love so powerful and so encompassing that it will continue to guide and strengthen us, even though she’s no longer physically with us.

As we say our final goodbyes today, let us remember Susie for the remarkable woman she was. Let’s honor her memory by embodying the values she taught us: compassion, resilience, love, and unity.

Susie, our dear mother, you are gone but never forgotten. Your spirit will live on within each of us, a guiding light in the dark, a comforting whisper in the wind, a constant reminder of the strength and love we carry within us, because of you.

Thank you for everything, Mom. We love you, and we will miss you always.

 B. Sample funeral speech for a sibling

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today, we stand united in grief and solidarity, as we bid farewell to a life that touched ours in ways words can barely encapsulate. A life that was too short yet immensely vibrant, filled with love, laughter, and countless shared moments. Today, we remember my brother, my confidante, my friend, Jack.

Growing up with Jack was nothing short of an adventure. He was the peanut butter to my jelly, the yin to my yang. As kids, we were inseparable. We shared not just a room, but countless secrets, dreams, laughter, and even the occasional sibling squabble. But through all the highs and lows, there was always an underlying foundation of unwavering brotherly love.

One story that springs to mind, encapsulating the spirit of Jack, was our great ‘Treehouse Escapade’. We were just about ten and twelve then, and had set our hearts on building the perfect treehouse in the large oak tree at the end of our garden. We had no idea what we were doing, armed only with a sketch on a crumpled piece of paper and the confidence that only children possess. It took us the entire summer, hammers slipping, nails bending, and more than one accidental thump on a thumb. But Jack, ever the optimist, would laugh off the blunders, transforming our little project into a whirlwind of joy.

That treehouse wasn’t architecturally sound, nor was it a spectacle to behold. But it was our haven, a testament to our shared dreams, our determination, and the magic that Jack brought into every task he undertook. He was always the beacon guiding us towards laughter and fun, turning even the most mundane activities into cherished memories.

Jack had a heart larger than life itself. He was the first to lend a hand to anyone in need, the first to cheer you up when you were down. His sense of humor was legendary, his laughter infectious. When he walked into a room, you couldn’t help but feel the energy change – brighter, lighter, better.

But Jack wasn’t just my older brother; he was my mentor, my guide, my protector. I remember when I was about to head off to college, nervous and unsure of what the future held. It was Jack who sat me down and said, “In life, you’re going to face challenges and make mistakes, but always remember that it’s these experiences that shape us. Embrace them. Learn from them. And remember, no matter where you are, you’ll always have a piece of home with you.”

Losing Jack feels like a chapter of our shared book has abruptly ended. Yet, I find solace in the memories we created together. Every shared joke, every heart-to-heart conversation, every shared dream, and even the bittersweet tears, are all fragments of a beautiful mosaic that depicts a bond that can never be broken.

Jack, my dear brother, I am grateful for every moment we shared, for every laugh, every story, every life lesson. You were my north star in the darkest nights, my compass when I lost my way, my anchor in the roughest storms.

As we say our final goodbyes, we carry your spirit with us, your joy, your kindness, your unwavering zest for life. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Until we meet again, Jack, thank you for being the best brother I could have ever asked for. I love you, and I will carry you in my heart always.

 C. Sample funeral speech for a friend

Dear Friends and Family,

Today we gather to remember a man whose life was as vibrant and dynamic as the waves of the ocean – forever in motion, brimming with energy, and touching the lives of everyone he met. A man who, in his time on earth, defined what it truly meant to be a friend, a confidante, a brother in spirit. We are here to celebrate the life of Mark.

Mark was more than a friend to all of us. He was the epitome of an adventurer, a soul that was forever curious, forever willing to explore the unknown, yet always ready to provide the comfort of familiarity when it was most needed.

One of the most unforgettable adventures we shared together was our unplanned road trip. I still remember that day. It was the kind of day when you feel the world weighing heavy on your shoulders. Mark turned up at my doorstep with nothing more than a mischievous grin and his beat-up old van, affectionately nicknamed “The Wanderer.” He looked at me and said, “The world is wide, and we are young. Let’s go get lost to find ourselves.”

What was supposed to be a day’s escape turned into a week of spontaneity. We slept under the stars, got lost more times than I can count, sang at the top of our lungs to songs we barely knew the lyrics to, and shared stories that made us laugh until our stomachs hurt. The journey didn’t just lighten the load I was carrying back then; it showed me the value of friendship, freedom, and living in the moment. That was Mark, a tornado of spontaneity, pulling you into an adventure you never knew you needed.

Yet, despite his love for adventure, Mark also had a calmness about him that was almost infectious. He had an uncanny ability to quiet the storm inside you with just a few words or a reassuring smile. He was my confidante, the one I could call at 2 AM to discuss life’s quandaries or the latest episode of a TV show we were both hooked on. He knew when to offer advice and when to simply listen, offering silence as a refuge from the chaos of the world.

Mark, my dear friend, your passing leaves a void in our lives that can never be filled. Your laughter, your spirit of adventure, your comforting presence – they are now but cherished memories, echoes of a friendship that will continue to live on in my heart.

As we say our final goodbyes, we remember you not with tears of sadness but with smiles, recalling the joy and happiness you brought into our lives. We remember you as you were – a beautiful soul, an adventurer, a beacon of light in our sometimes-dark world.

In honor of Mark, let’s not dwell in the sorrow of his departure. Instead, let’s celebrate the life he lived and the person he was. Let’s remember his unquenchable thirst for life, his deep and resounding laughter, and his unwavering loyalty as a friend.

Mark, you were the echo in the forest, the breeze on a summer day, and now the whisper in our hearts, forever reminding us of the bond we shared. Though we part ways today, the footprints you left on our hearts will remain. You will be greatly missed, my dear friend. Rest in peace, until we meet again.

Thank you, Mark, for the memories, the adventures, and most importantly, your friendship. We love you and will remember you always.

IX. Conclusion

A. the impact of a heartfelt funeral speech.

A well-crafted and heartfelt funeral speech can have a profound impact on the audience, providing solace and comfort during a time of grief. By incorporating elements from famous eulogies like Earl Spencer’s, John Cleese’s, and Oprah Winfrey’s, as well as drawing from short eulogy examples and funny eulogy examples, you can create a powerful tribute that captures the essence of the person’s life and character. A funeral speech that shares fond memories and celebrates the entire life of a loved one can be remembered as the best eulogy ever, leaving a lasting impression on those who hear it.

B. Final thoughts on honoring the memory of a loved one

Honoring the memory of a close friend or family member through a funeral speech is a significant responsibility. Writing a eulogy that strikes the perfect balance between paying tribute to the person’s life and acknowledging grief can be an emotional and challenging process. However, by focusing on the person’s life, their impact on others, and the fond memories shared, you can create a beautiful eulogy that truly honors their memory. Remember to draw inspiration from examples like Steve Jobs’ eulogy by Mona Simpson or Sonny Bono’s eulogy by Cher, and always speak from the heart. In doing so, you will not only pay tribute to your loved one but also provide hope, comfort, and healing to all those in attendance.

At MemoryCherish, we understand the importance of honoring your loved one’s memory with a heartfelt and professionally crafted eulogy. Our team of experienced writers is dedicated to helping you create a beautiful tribute that captures the essence of the person’s life, character, and the fond memories shared. Let MemoryCherish be your partner in honoring your loved one’s memory with a professionally crafted eulogy. Reach out to us today and let us help you create a touching tribute that celebrates their life and provides comfort to those in attendance.

What makes the best eulogy?

The best eulogy is one that captures the essence of the person’s life, character, and impact on others while providing comfort to those in attendance. Key elements of the best eulogy include:

• Authenticity: Speak from the heart and share genuine emotions and experiences.
• Personal anecdotes: Share stories that highlight the person’s personality, values, and relationships.
• Balance: Strike a balance between honoring the person’s life and acknowledging grief.
• Positive aspects: Focus on the positive aspects of the deceased’s life, including accomplishments, passions, and happy memories.
• Emotional connection: Establish an emotional connection with the audience by using descriptive language and conveying empathy.
• Organization: Structure the eulogy with a clear beginning, middle, and end to guide the audience through the person’s life and experiences.

What is the best speech for a funeral?

The best speech for a funeral is one that pays tribute to the deceased while offering comfort and solace to the grieving family and friends. This can be achieved by:

• Sharing personal stories, anecdotes, and memories of the person.
• Focusing on the positive aspects of their life and the impact they had on others.
• Acknowledging the grief and loss felt by those in attendance.
• Using appropriate humor and light moments to provide relief and healing.
• Ensuring the speech is concise, well-organized, and delivered with sincerity and emotion.

What is the best closing line for a eulogy?

The best closing line for a eulogy is one that leaves a lasting impression, encapsulates the person’s life and legacy, and offers hope or inspiration to the audience. Some examples of powerful closing lines are:

• “May we carry [deceased’s name] memory in our hearts, allowing their spirit to live on through us.”
• “As we say our final goodbye, let us remember [deceased’s name] life and the love they brought to all who knew them.”
• “In the words of [deceased’s name], ‘Live fully, love deeply, and make a difference.’ Let us honor their memory by following this guiding principle.”
• “Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find solace in the beautiful memories of [deceased’s name] and the impact they had on our lives.”

Choose a closing line that reflects the person’s character and values, and leaves the audience with a sense of comfort and inspiration.

Writing a eulogy during this difficult time is hard. Our professional writers are here to help you capture your loved one’s essence and life beautifully.

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What to Write in a Funeral Thank You Card

First and most importantly, on behalf of American Greetings, we are sincerely sorry for your loss. If we can help, in even the smallest way, to make things easier for you during this difficult time, we are honored to do so.

Deciding what to write in a funeral thank-you note is actually easier than it may initially sound. Yes, go ahead, take that sigh of relief. With all that you have going on right now, the last thing you need to worry about is wording the perfect thank-you card message. Keep in mind, those you are writing to care more about your well-being and would not want to be even the slightest source of stress in your life.

While it is not necessary or expected to send thank-you notes to everyone who attended the visitation or service, you may still find yourself with a growing list of those you want to thank. Don't feel obligated to finish the whole stack at once. Simply write what you can, then set aside the rest for when have more time and energy. Also, just a few lines will be sufficient. Be easy on yourself and go at your own pace.

There are many different reasons why you would send a funeral thank-you card—such as thank you for attending the funeral, thank you for the funeral flowers/memorial contribution, thank you for help, meals, cards, etc. And, of course, there are certain, special people who deserve an extra-special message. But since the majority of the thank-you cards will be for attending the funeral, it's perfectly okay to write similar phrases in each one. No one will be comparing notes. Choosing some of ideas below, and then adding a personal line or two where appropriate, will help the words flow.

Thank You for Attending Funeral

Opening line.

• It was very nice to see you at (your loved one)'s funeral.
• Thank you for taking the time to attend ___'s funeral.
• It meant so much to see you at ___'s funeral
• Thank you for sharing in the celebration of ___'s life.
• I/we truly appreciate the time you took/effort you made to travel such a distance.
• Thank you for the stories and memories you shared.
• Your words were such a comfort.
• Your stories were so special/sweet/lovely.
• The stories you shared lifted my spirits.
• It meant a lot to hear how ___ touched other people's lives.
• He/she always had wonderful things to say about you.
• You meant so much to ____.
• No wonder ____ always spoke so highly of you/thought you were such a special person.
• Celebrating the life of ____ would not have been complete without you.

Closing Line

• Your presence meant so much to me/our family.
• Your support truly made a difference during this difficult time.
• Thank you for your hugs and kind words of support.
• Your thoughtfulness/kindness/support means more than words can possibly express.
• I will always remember your kindness.
• You are a true friend.

Funeral Thank You Notes for Specific People

• Thank you for your counsel and guidance during this time. Your wisdom and support was very much appreciated.
• Thank you for your thoughtful and meaningful words at the service for ___. You brought light and comfort to our family and friends during this very difficult time.
• Thank you for making ____'s celebration of life all it could be.

To Pallbearer

• Thank you for being a pallbearer for _____. You meant a great deal to him/her and your support was appreciated beyond words.
• Thank you for serving as a pallbearer. You are a very special person to our family and your help was sincerely appreciated.
• Thank you for serving as a pallbearer. You are a true friend and a good man. Having you there was a tremendous help to our family.

To Someone Special

• Thank you for being there for me during this incredibly difficult time. I don't know what I would have done without your help, comfort and calmness with all that needed to be done. You are truly a blessing.
• Thank you for the many ways you made a difference during the planning of ___'s funeral. With all the details that needed to be attended to, I appreciated your help beyond words.
• Although I'll never be able to express how much you've meant to me during this difficult time, I will always remember how kind and helpful and comforting you've been. I am so lucky to have you in my life.

Thank You Notes for Funeral Flowers, Donations, Meals, Cards

Flowers/donations.

• Thank you for sending the beautiful arrangement/memorial contribution. Your kindness and thoughtfulness meant so much.
• As we celebrated the life of ___, your flowers brought such beauty to the room.
• Thank you for the gorgeous arrangement/generous donation. That was very kind of you and I/we feel so grateful to have you in my life/our lives.

Food/Help/Thoughtful Gestures

• I can't begin to express how much it meant you for to (bring meals, watch my kids, take care of my dog, etc.). Your kindness and care brought comfort, relief and peace-of-mind during a very challenging time. Thank you.
• I can't thank you enough for the meal(s) you brought to our home. Having one less thing to worry about during this difficult and busy time made an incredible difference.
• Bringing dinner to our home was incredibly generous—and appreciated. Thank you!

Sympathy Card

• Your sympathy card was so kind and very much appreciated. You are such a thoughtful friend.
• Thank you for thinking of our family during this difficult time. Your card was sincerely appreciated.
• Thank you so much for your sympathy card. I/ we truly appreciated the warm words of comfort. You are so kind.

Now that you have some ideas of what to write in your thank-you notes, and you've seen that you can express sincere and meaningful gratitude in just a few lines, hopefully it will be easier to get started. Remember that the people on your thank-you card list are there for a reason—because they care. And when they receive your note, they will undoubtedly send more thoughts of comfort and peace your way.

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Funerals & Memorials > 21 Elegant Messages to Write in Your Funeral Thank You Card

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21 Elegant Messages to Write in Your Funeral Thank You Card

Words by Utterly Printable

Sending appreciation to well-wishers after a funeral is a nice thing to do, but knowing what to write can be difficult. To make life a little easier, we have put together a list of some great messages for you to write on your funeral thank you cards .

Thank you cards for after a funeral

What to write in a funeral thank you card:

• “I am so appreciative of your generosity. Thank you for caring so much about [name] and our family.”
• “Thank you for the generous contribution. It made a world of difference, and having your support helped us through this difficult time.”
• “I honestly can’t say thank you enough. Your generous donation has truly helped lift a burden off our shoulders.”
• “Your words were so kind and very much appreciated in these tough times. You are such a thoughtful friend.”
• “Thank you for the donation in [name]’s honour. Your thoughtfulness and generosity are much appreciated by the entire family.”
• “Thank you so much for the generous donation. That was very kind of you, and we are so grateful to have you in our lives.”
• “Our whole family thanks you for the special funeral flower arrangement that you sent.  It was one of our favourites and helped to brighten our day.”
• “Thank you for the gorgeous arrangement. They were so thoughtful, and we feel so grateful to have you in our lives.”
• “Thank you for sending such a beautiful arrangement. Your support shows through in these tough times.”
• “[Name] would have loved your flowers, they were perfect. Thank you so much for such a beautiful contribution.”
• Thank you for thinking of our family during this difficult time. Your card was sincerely appreciated.”
• “Your flowers brought light into a very difficult time. Thank you for your love and support through everything.”
• “Thank you for your sympathy card and flowers. We are deeply touched by your words of condolence and are thankful that you are there for us at this difficult time.”
• “It has always been a privilege to have you for a friend. I don’t know how we would have coped with the loss of our beautiful son if we hadn’t had your huge support. Thanks never seems enough at times like this.
• “Thank you for the stories and memories you shared. They truly helped our family and highlighted what a special person [name] was.”
• “Just a quick note to show our appreciation for the beautiful flowers you’ve sent. We are grateful for your thoughtfulness while we are going through this difficult time.”
• “Thank you for your sympathy during our time of loss. Your kind words are of great comfort to us as we try to come to terms with our daughter’s death.”
• “It was so thoughtful of you to think of me during my time of sadness. Your sympathy card and kind words of condolence are of great comfort to me as I grieve my Father’s death.”
• “Thank you so much for the condolences. We truly appreciated the warm words of comfort.”
• “Thank you for sharing in the celebration of [name]’s life. Our whole family appreciates the support.”

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Eulogy examples to help you write a eulogy for a memorial service

Funeral speech examples from around the world.

By:  Susan Dugdale  

How do you begin to write a meaningful eulogy?

And how is it possible to say everything you want to about a person's entire life story in a few, very brief, minutes?

Both those questions are natural responses to having a eulogy to write for a funeral service.

Grief, together with the desire to honor your loved-one the best way you can, and the pressure of a tight timeframe, can make it feel like an almost insurmountable challenge. 

That's why reading what others have written in similar circumstances helps a great deal.

What's on this page:

Access to 70+ eulogy examples, the whys and wherefores of the collection: its background, a submission form to use if you want to contribute a eulogy and links to other useful pages on my site.

Quick links

• I want to browse and read the example eulogies in the order they have been received . (The most recent is at the top of the list.)
• I want to submit a eulogy I have written .
• I want to read specific types of eulogies : eulogies for mothers, fathers, an older brother, a dear friend...
• I want help with the eulogy writing process.

About these eulogy examples

I am fortunate to be able to make available to you a large, and growing, collection of funeral speech examples. 

They've been written by people from all over the world, who are just like you and me. They too have family and friends whom they care for deeply.

Look and you'll find examples of eulogies for mothers, fathers, grandparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins, mentors, colleagues, a close friend..., in short: loved ones.

The people who've written them have shared them to help people like yourself. Because they've been where you are now with a funeral speech to prepare, they know how it feels to be searching for inspiration, trying to find a starting point.

Some of the speeches are short. Some of them are funny. All of them are heartfelt, and they appear in the order I received them.

To see them, jump to  eulogy samples .  

Return to Top

 Help to find specific eulogy examples easily

If you're looking for an example of a eulogy for a particular kind of person, and don't want to browse your way through the chronologically ordered list below, use these links to go straight to a collection of:

• eulogies for mothers
• eulogies for  fathers
• eulogies for  sisters
• eulogies for  sons
• eulogies for  grandmothers
• eulogies for  grandfathers
• eulogies for  friends
• eulogies for  colleagues

I've grouped all the speeches I've received through this page according to their type on a new page here: sample eulogies . Whenever a eulogy is submitted, I add its link to the category it belongs to.

The story behind this collection of eulogies

It began with two funeral speeches  I had written. 

Almost as soon as I put them online, they attracted an enormous number of visitors.

It was then I realized the need for more.  

I also knew my examples would not answer everybody's needs.

The one for my sister was different in approach.

The one for my friend and next-door neighbor was not what a grieving person with a eulogy speech to write for a close family member really wanted to see. 

My two were definitely not enough! 

Offering a wider variety of funeral speeches 

To be really useful there needed to be a wider variety of funeral speeches. We needed eulogies for mothers, fathers, sons, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, colleagues, friends, people who died unexpectedly and suddenly...

And we needed them to reflect the diverse countries and faiths of the people visiting the site.

I decided to ask for more. Lo and behold, they began to arrive through my   eulogy submission form below.

Help to make writing a eulogy easier.

After you've read a few eulogy examples, and you want help to prepare your own speech you'll find it here:  how to write a good eulogy .

The article has step-by-step instructions, examples, a very useful free 15-page printable eulogy planning template to download , as well as comprehensive answers for 13 FAQs about eulogies :

• how do you start a eulogy ?
• how do you end a eulogy ?
• do you read a eulogy or memorize it?
• how do you stop from crying when you give a eulogy ?

Why do people share a deeply personal speech?

The people sending their eulogies to me to publish fully appreciate that writing a funeral speech under pressure can be a difficult, sad and lonely task - sometimes one of the hardest things they've ever done.

They know from experience having examples to read can lessen that burden. It's a good way of starting to find the right words to tell their own personal stories and share their favorite memories about a person they have loved.

Theirs is a kind and generous act, one that's been repeated over 70 times already. 

Wonderfully, some of the people who've come searching for help to write their own eulogy, have returned to share what they've written.

(Read Craig's comment below his eulogy for his Grandmother, Bertha  or Byrona's below her  eulogy for her Dad  for verification.

Both were helped by funeral speeches they found here and wanted what they had written to assist others in the same way.)

So, if you've written a eulogy...

Would you consider sharing it?

It would help others enormously.

Every day people look for tips on how to a write eulogy or to find  eulogy examples  to read. I know because I see it reflected in my website visitor statistics.

I also know because of the comments people leave under speeches.  They are so very grateful to have found a eulogy expressing how they feel.

For instance, see the comments on Eulogy for my Son , on Eulogy for my Grandmother - Bertha , or Sharon Catley's poem for her Mother,  Journey's End .   

You know how it generally is with a speech of this sort. Typically, there is not much time to prepare, and you want to get it right.

Reading what others have done helps in the best possible way.

These eulogies inspire and give people the courage to do what they need to do.

Despite our differences what we all have in common is the desire to speak about our loved ones the very best way we can. 

The more examples we have, the more likely a person is going to find a speech that resonates and meets their needs.

You too could help by submitting the eulogy you've written. It's very simple to do.

When you're ready...

PS. If you would like to share your eulogy but have privacy concerns around using your loved one's name you could use a fictional name, like Bob or Sue in place of their real one. Be assured too, that although there is the possibility that people reading your speech might wish to respond, no comment goes live without my permission.

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Click the headline links below to read the eulogies or funeral speeches shared by visitors to this page...

Click here to write your own.

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Sample Appreciation Letters to a Church After a Funeral

Tom May is a professional communicator, writer, author, and instructor.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

When someone or some organization offers assistance and support during a time of sorrow, an opportunity to express gratitude presents itself. While words in conversation are important, often a written, more formal expression of thanksgiving is needed. It is more than appropriate to send a letter of appreciation to church after a funeral. Here are some tips and some sample letters to show your gratitude.

Three Tips in Crafting a Letter of Appreciation to Church After a Funeral

Expressing gratitude is an important part of the healing process after a funeral. You may wonder if letters of appreciation are necessary . Many people are not sure how to express thanks to an organization like a church. Here are three simple tips to help you craft a letter of appreciation to church after a funeral.

• What to Say in Funeral Thank You Notes: Examples, Tips, and Etiquette
• 7 Meaningful Examples of Thank You Notes for Funeral Flowers

Be Specific

A local church performs a large number of a variety of services and ministries on a regular basis. The services may be achieved by a professional staff member or clergy, or they may be completed by a volunteer. Your specific letter of thanks will help the letter of appreciation get to the right individual. Simply indicate the ministry that has been performed and the people or committees that assisted you.

The church does not need nor expect a lengthy composition expressing your gratitude. Express your thanks and gratitude for the services and ministries performed.

The church understands that you are grieving and that many things are on your mind, needing to be done. In the days that follow the funeral, things will begin to settle down and return to normal. Taking the time early on to express thanks will keep you from forgetting to do it, but will also help you in the healing process.

The Many Roles the Church Plays

For many, the place the church occupies in the life of an individual is significant. From the baptism and care for a newborn child to the wedding ceremony and the marriage of a family member, the church builds relationships with people and offers service to them during life's special moments. The death of a loved one offers many opportunities for a church to minister to its members. A funeral setting also allows the church to reach out and offer service to non-members during a time of grief. Here are several typical things the church may provide for an individual during a funeral, and an example of a letter of appreciation.

A common ministry that many churches offer to the bereaved is providing food for the family at a time when cooking is not on anyone's mind. The food may be given to the family during the days of visitation or immediately after. A meal may be provided for the extended family following the funeral. A letter of appreciation could sound like this:

Dear [Person's Name],

Thank you for organizing and bringing the food during the visitation for my uncle. The church has been such a blessing during this difficult time for our family. The meat trays, fruit, and bread choices gave everyone an opportunity to eat when needed.

Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness.

The Jones Family

Hosting the Funeral Service

When the deceased was an active member of a congregation, the family often desires for the funeral to be held at the church building. This can be welcomed when a larger crowd is expected to attend the funeral service. A church funeral also provides as easier setting for church members to attend. A nice letter of appreciation might say:

Dear [Pastor's Name],

When we had to decide where to hold the funeral service, our desire was always to honor my father at his church. The gracious spirit of the church members and your kindness throughout the day brought sunshine to the darkness of our hours. We will never forget the church's expressions of love and honor for my father.

Providing Music or the Message

During a funeral service, often members of the church staff participate in portions of the funeral service. They may provide special music, background instrumental music, read Scripture, deliver a eulogy, or present a funeral message. This would be an example of a letter expressing thanks for these kind of services.

Dear [Name of Contact Person at Church, Individual who Performed Services, or Pastor],

On behalf of the family of Jim Jones, I would like to express our thanks to all of those who performed services at my father's funeral. Our gratitude goes out to Jane Smith for the lovely organ music, to Jim Smith for reading the Scripture, and for Pastor Bob Smith for delivering the eulogy. Your words and your kindness at our time of need will always be treasured by our family.

Hosting a Wake or Visitation

Many times the church is called upon to host the wake or visitation instead of having to move everything from the funeral home to the church building. Here would be an instance of such a letter.

When we expected an attendance for the visitation of my father to be more than the 25 the funeral home could accommodate, our family immediately began to worry. When you offered to host the event, your church immediately took one of our biggest concerns off our shoulders. Your expressions of kindness during our time of need will never be forgotten. Thank you again for your church's willingness to host the visitation.

Often members of the clergy are trained in counseling individuals during times of grief. A letter expressing gratitude for such counseling could sound like this:

The intense feelings of grief at the loss of our mother coupled with the many decisions that have to be made left several of us feeling stressed and anxious. The time that you spent with us after the first evening's visitation was priceless to our family. The words of comfort and encouragement that you shared made an impact. Thank you for your kindness and wisdom.

Letter From a Non-Member

When a family attends a church or when the deceased loved one attended, every individual who offers assistance might be a close friend. But when someone outside the church is helped, names of people might be impossible to determine. This would be an example of a letter sent by someone who does not attend the church.

To the Pastor and Members of Northwest Baptist Church,

Before my uncle John Jones passed away, he expressed a deep desire to have a church funeral. Although my uncle attended a church from time to time, he was not a member anywhere and all of his family live out of the state. The funeral directed suggested that we contact you and we are go glad that we did. Your church extended their hands to help us out during our time of need. Would you express our thanks to the young lady who offered a beautiful song and the older gentleman who read Scripture and prayed? Our family is very grateful for your kindness.

Expressing Appreciation

After the difficult moments of grief and bereavement, there may be a desire to send out a letter of appreciation to church after a funeral. Notes of such nature can be difficult to write. These sample words may help provide springboards to help you express the gratitude that is in your heart.

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Expressing gratitude during times of loss can be challenging, yet it is a meaningful way to acknowledge the support and kindness of those who have been there for you. Crafting the right words for funeral thank you cards can help convey your appreciation to friends, family, and well-wishers who offered their condolences and support. In this guide, we will provide you with thoughtful examples and tips for writing heartfelt funeral thank you card messages that genuinely express your gratitude.

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Funeral thank you card wording, words for thank you cards after funeral, sympathy and funeral thank you card wording examples, funeral thank you cards additional resources.

When writing a funeral thank you card , it’s important to convey your sincere appreciation while keeping the message personal and heartfelt. Begin by addressing the recipient personally, and then acknowledge their specific acts of kindness or support. Mention how their words or actions brought comfort during this difficult time, and express your gratitude for their presence and compassion. Here are some key elements to consider including in your message.

To start off, know that thank you cards are usually sent to those than helped out through the difficult times by watching your children or pets, bringing meals, delivering flowers, donating to the funeral expenses, sending a sympathy card , or for attending the service. If you’re ready to start writing the thank you cards, plan to include the following:

• Addressee’s name: Most begin their letters with “Dear (name),” and this works fine for funeral thank you notes.
• Thank you note: This is where you acknowledge their help or previously extended condolences. Make sure to use the words “thank you.”
• Concluding sentiment: This can be anything from a follow up to the thank you, describing how their actions helped you, or a simple sentiment such as, “You are a true friend.”
• Sign off: Sign offs include any of the following: “Love always,” “All my love,” “Sincerely,” “XOXO,” “Thank you again,” “Best wishes,” “Take care,” “Warmly,” or “Yours truly.” then follow the sign off with your handwritten name.

If you’re looking for specific phrases or wording to use in your funeral thank you cards, you’ll find samples below. From expressed  condolence messages   to monetary donations, we’ve collected a range of phrases for any thank you.

Thank You Card Wording For Funeral Donation

Samples of key phrases to use for a custom thank you card in response to monetary donations include the following:

• “Thank you so much for the generous donation. That was very kind of you and we are so grateful to have you in our lives.”
• “Thank you for the amazing contribution. It made a world of difference, and having your support helped us through this difficult time.”
• “I honestly can’t say thank you enough. Your generous donation has truly helped lift a burden off our shoulders.”
• “Thank you for the donation in [name]’s honor. Your thoughtfulness and generosity are much appreciated by the entire family.”
• “I am so appreciative of your generosity. Thank you for caring so much about [name] and our family.”

Thank You Notes For Funeral Flowers

Flowers make for a beautiful universal symbol of love, life, and respect. If you’re been trying to find a way to thank those who contributed flowers in wake of a loved one’s passing, look below.

• “Our whole family thanks you for the special funeral flower arrangement that you sent.  It was one of our favorites, and helped to brighten our day.”
• “Your flowers brought light into a very difficult time. Thank you for your love and support through everything.”
• “Thank you for the gorgeous arrangement. They were so thoughtful and we feel so grateful to have you in our lives.”
• “Thank you for sending such a beautiful arrangement. Your support shows through in these tough times.”
• “[Name] would have loved your flowers, they were perfect. Thank you so much for such a beautiful contribution.”

Thank You For Sympathy

Just having the support of loved one’s around you helps relieve the burden of a friend or family member’s loss. Let your supporters know the difference they made with the follow thank you samples.

• “Thank you for thinking of our family during this difficult time. Your card was sincerely appreciated.”
• “Thank you so much for the condolences. We truly appreciated the warm words of comfort.”
• “Your words were so kind and very much appreciated in these tough times. You are such a thoughtful friend.”
• “Thank you for sharing in the celebration of [name]’s life. Our whole family appreciates the support.”
• “Thank you for the stories and memories you shared. They truly helped our family and highlighted what a special person [name] was.”

All of the above examples can be pieced together to form your personalized funeral thank you note wording. However, if you’re looking for examples of completed thank you’s, we’ve crafting some below.

Thank You For Condolences

Find general thank you notes for sympathy and condolences below:

Example Thank You #1:

Dear [name],

Your words were so kind and very much appreciated in these tough times. You are such a thoughtful friend, and it meant to much to have you with us.

Yours Truly,

[name, signed]

Example Thank You #2:

Dear [name], Thank you so much for the condolences. We truly appreciated the warm words of comfort. You’re a true friend. With Love, [name, signed]

Example Thank You #3:

Dear [name], Thank you for the stories and memories you shared during the funeral. They truly helped our family and highlighted what a special person [name] was. We were so glad to have you there with us. XOXO, [name, signed]

Thank You Notes For Funeral

Below, you’ll find thank you note examples for those who contributed to the funeral.

Example Thank You #4:

I honestly can’t say thank you enough. Your generous donation has truly helped lift a burden off our shoulders. It means so much to us to have your support.

Example Thank You #5:

Dear [name], Our whole family thanks you for the special funeral flower arrangement that you sent.  It was one of our favorites, and helped to brighten our day. Warmly, [name, signed]

Example Thank You #6:

Dear [name], I am so appreciative of your generosity. Thank you for caring so much about [name] and our family. You’ve really made a difference in these difficult times. Take Care, [name, signed]

If you found this guide helpful but you’re looking for additional sympathy card resources, we’re here to help. A dditional guides include:

• What to write in a sympathy card
• Sympathy etiquette
• Sympathy quotes and sayings
• How to write a thank you card
• Personalizing cards

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1. Start with a brief introduction

Creating touching eulogies for spiritual beacons, weaving a narrative of respect and affection, heartfelt reflections: client testimonials, is it necessary to mention names in the thank you speech, can i include quotes or poems in the thank you speech, how should i address different groups present at the funeral, can children deliver a thank you speech at a funeral, is it okay to show emotions during the speech, what should i do if i become too emotional to continue the speech, can i thank individuals who helped with funeral arrangements, is it appropriate to include humor in a thank you speech at a funeral, how can i make the speech more personal and touching, how can i practice and prepare for the speech, what are some appropriate opening lines for a thank you speech at a funeral, how can i effectively convey gratitude in my speech, what should be the structure of a thank you speech, can i use a thank you speech to share fond memories of the deceased, is it appropriate to thank religious leaders or community figures during the speech, how do i end a thank you speech at a funeral, how long should a thank you speech be at a funeral, is it okay to write down the speech or should it be memorized, what kind of language should be used in a thank you speech, 2. reflect on your loved one's life, 3. acknowledge specific acts of support, 4. offer thanks to the wider community, 5. close with a heartwarming message, thank you speech at funeral example 1, thank you speech at funeral example 2, thank you speech at funeral example 3, eulogy assistant: voices of spiritual remembrance, thank you speech at funeral frequently asked questions.

When we lose someone we love, it's comforting to know that we have a strong support network of friends and family to help us through the grieving process. As we come together to pay tribute to the person who has passed, it's customary to express our gratitude in the form of a thank you speech at their funeral. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to write a heartfelt thank you speech, and provide an engaging example to help illustrate the process.

Losing a loved one is never easy, and the emotional weight of their absence can seem unbearable. It's in these moments of grief that we rely on the love and support of those around us to help us heal. When it's time to say your final goodbyes, it's crucial to acknowledge the people who aided you through this difficult time. A sincerely-crafted thank you speech at the funeral can convey your appreciation and gratitude to them effectively.

To write a heartfelt and impactful thank you speech at a funeral, follow these steps:

Introduce yourself, mention your relationship to the deceased, and express your heartfelt thanks to everyone who came to pay their respects. This sets the tone for your speech and lets your audience know what is to follow.

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Writing a eulogy for a loved one you have just lost, can be both challenging and painful. Alongside the pressure of delivering a meaningful tribute in front of other funeral guests.

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Share a brief overview of your loved one's life, including their values, accomplishments, and the positive impact they had on the lives of others. This not only helps you center your speech, but also helps reconnect the mourners to the person they knew and loved.

It's essential to recognize those who went above and beyond during your time of need. Were there friends who offered a shoulder to cry on? Family members who helped with funeral arrangements? Neighbours who sent meals? Make sure to mention these people and the specific ways they supported you. Express your sincere gratitude to them for standing by you during this difficult time.

Your thank you speech should not only address those who were directly involved but also thank the wider community for their outpouring of love and support during this trying period. This could include professional help from hospice workers, nurses, or the clergy, as well as the funeral home staff, who helped ensure that the services ran smoothly.

End your speech on a positive note by reflecting on your loved one's life and what it meant. Share a memorable or inspiring quote, or simply express your gratitude for the love and support that surrounds you. This will leave your audience with an uplifting message of unity and hope.

Good afternoon everyone,

Today, as we gather here to remember and celebrate the life of (Name), I find myself amidst a sea of people who have loved, respected, and admired (him/her) throughout (his/her) journey. I stand before you, not just as a family member, but as a representation of the immense gratitude that we feel towards each one of you who have joined us on this solemn occasion.

As I look around, I see faces that have been a part of various chapters of (Name)'s life. Friends who have stood by (him/her) through thick and thin, colleagues who have admired (his/her) professional dedication, and family members who have been (his/her) pillar of strength.

At this moment, I would like to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for being here. Your presence here today is not only a testimony to the wonderful person (Name) was but also a source of comfort and strength for us as we navigate through this challenging time.

First and foremost, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the medical staff and caregivers who showed unwavering dedication in caring for (Name) during (his/her) illness. Your kindness and compassion have not gone unnoticed, and we are eternally grateful for the comfort and care you provided.

Next, I would like to acknowledge the outpouring of support we have received from our friends and extended family. Your messages, calls, and gestures of sympathy have been a beacon of light in these dark times. You have shown us that love and solidarity can transcend boundaries and bring people closer, even in moments of profound sadness.

To (Name)'s colleagues and coworkers, thank you for honoring (his/her) professional legacy and for the respect and admiration you have showered upon (him/her). (He/She) often spoke of the fulfilling experiences and the camaraderie (he/she) enjoyed at work, and for that, we are thankful.

I also want to extend a special word of thanks to our neighbors and community members who have been a constant source of support. Your gestures, no matter how small, have played a significant role in helping us through this time. From helping with arrangements to simply being there to lend a listening ear, your kindness has been a great source of comfort.

We are also deeply appreciative of the individuals involved in organizing this beautiful service today. Your efforts have allowed us to create a fitting tribute to (Name), a celebration that truly embodies the spirit and essence of the wonderful person (he/she) was.

As we stand at the threshold of bidding farewell to a life beautifully lived, I want to acknowledge the invisible threads of love and compassion that bind us all here. (Name) had a rare gift of bringing people together, fostering unity, and spreading joy wherever (he/she) went.

In the days leading up to today, we have received countless stories and anecdotes from people whose lives were touched by (Name) in the most beautiful ways. It is evident that (his/her) spirit of generosity and kindness resonated deeply with many. As a family, we take immense comfort in knowing that (Name)'s life was a beacon of light and inspiration to many.

Before I end this tribute, let us take a moment to thank (Name) for the memories, the laughter, the lessons, and the love (he/she) showered upon us. Let us thank (him/her) for the time we had together, no matter how short. And most importantly, let us thank (him/her) for being a wonderful example of how to live a life filled with grace, love, and kindness.

Thank you, once again, for being here with us today, for sharing in our grief, and for helping us remember and celebrate a truly remarkable life.

Good afternoon, dear friends and family,

As we gather here to remember the beautiful soul that was (Name), I am filled with a sense of gratitude that transcends the grief that envelopes us. Today, I stand here to express our deepest thanks to each and every one of you who have joined us in paying tribute to a life that was a living epitome of love, kindness, and generosity.

In moments like these, words often fall short to express the whirlpool of emotions that we find ourselves in. However, it is through words that we find solace, it is through words that we find connection, and it is through words that we find comfort. And so, I find it fitting to take this moment to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have been a source of support and comfort during this time.

Firstly, I would like to acknowledge the immense support we have received from our community. Your solidarity, your gestures of kindness, and your words of comfort have been a pillar of strength for us. We are truly grateful for your presence and your support.

We are also incredibly thankful to the healthcare professionals who tended to (Name) during (his/her) time of illness. Your dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to providing care and comfort are nothing short of heroic. We extend our deepest gratitude to you for being there in our time of need.

To (Name)'s friends, who have been a constant source of love and support, we thank you. Your friendship was a source of joy and happiness for (him/her), and we are comforted by the beautiful memories and moments that you shared together. Your friendship enriched (his/her) life in countless ways, and for that, we are eternally grateful.

As we navigate through this period of mourning, we find comfort in the collective memories and stories that each one of you has shared with us. Each story, each memory is a testament to the wonderful person (Name) was. (He/She) lived (his/her) life with an open heart, embracing everyone with warmth and love.

Today, as we reminisce about (Name), we are reminded of the countless lives (he/she) touched with (his/her) grace and kindness. (His/Her) spirit of generosity, (his/her) infectious laughter, and (his/her) unwavering optimism have left an indelible mark on all of us.

As we bid adieu to (Name), we do so with hearts filled with gratitude for the time we were blessed to have with (him/her). (His/Her) memory will continue to live on in the many lives (he/she) touched, in the many hearts (he/she) warmed, and in the many souls (he/she) inspired.

Before we part, I would like to take a moment to thank all those who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make today's ceremony a beautiful and fitting tribute to (Name)'s life. Your efforts have helped us create a space where we can come together to mourn, to remember, and to celebrate a life well-lived.

In closing, I would like to thank each one of you for being here today. Your presence, your support, and your love have been a beacon of light in these dark times. As we move forward, let us carry (Name)'s legacy of love and kindness in our hearts, inspiring us to live our lives with compassion, grace, and empathy.

To give you an idea of how to put together a heartfelt thank you speech, here's an example:

Hello, my name is John, and I am (the deceased) Jane's brother. I want to begin by expressing my sincere gratitude to everyone who has joined us today to pay tribute to my incredible sister.

Growing up with Jane, I witnessed firsthand her tenacity, her empathy, and her kindness. She always knew how to bring people together, and today is no exception. Jane's legacy of love and compassion lives on through each of us here.

I am truly grateful for the tremendous outpouring of support we have received during this difficult time. My heartfelt thanks go to my cousin Michelle and Aunt Mary, who flew in to be with us, and to our neighbours, who provided us with meals and emotional support.

To everyone at Hospice Care, your unwavering dedication to ensuring Jane's comfort and dignity in her final days means the world to us.

In the words of Helen Keller, 'What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose; for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.' As we remember and celebrate Jane's life today, let us carry forward her spirit of love, grace, and kindness in our hearts.

Thank you, everyone, for being here and for all your support.

In the serene moments that accompany the approach of a final farewell, encapsulating your heartfelt emotions in words can feel as profound as portraying the first light of dawn. The crafting of a eulogy for a spiritual beacon is a delicate task, melding respect with heartfelt sincerity. Eulogy Assistant is here to guide you through this poignant process, intertwining reverence with genuine sentiment, transforming cherished memories into lasting tributes.

Our team, proficient in the art of considerate eulogy writing, is dedicated to assisting you in creating a eulogy that resonates with the gentle yet profound presence of your spiritual beacon. Eulogy Assistant is more than a service; we're your partners in remembrance, offering compassionate guidance and support as you honor a life of spiritual meaning.

At Eulogy Assistant , we believe in the power of collaboration to create an eulogy that deeply connects. By working together, your personal recollections and heartfelt stories are intricately woven with our professional expertise, resulting in a tribute that honors with grace and emotional depth.

Our approach centers on authentic connection and collaborative creation. Your personal anecdotes and insights are vital in painting a narrative that captures the essence of your spiritual beacon's legacy. This process extends beyond chronicling their teachings; it's about capturing the essence of their influence and the personal connections they nurtured.

Together, we aim to craft a narrative that truly captures the spirit of your spiritual beacon – a story that goes beyond conventional eulogies, delving into realms of deep respect, personal connection, and genuine emotion. Our collective efforts culminate in a eulogy that is a heartfelt reflection of words, echoing the profound respect and love your spiritual beacon inspired.

The true essence of our work is illuminated in the testimonials from those we've supported. These heartfelt accounts of gratitude and acknowledgment from individuals who turned to us for guidance are the sincerest indicators of our commitment.

"In my quest to honor my spiritual beacon, Eulogy Assistant was a guiding presence, helping me craft a eulogy that truly captured their essence and teachings," reflects Johnathan, grateful for our guidance.

Emily shares, "The empathetic and expert support from Eulogy Assistant was a solace in my time of loss. They helped me shape a eulogy that wasn't just words, but a profound homage, deeply resonating with all who shared admiration for our spiritual guide."

These testimonials underscore our dedication to creating eulogies that are not mere words, but heartfelt expressions of honor, respect, and enduring memory. We are privileged to be part of your journey, celebrating the distinct legacies of those who have profoundly impacted our lives, crafting eulogies that stand as lasting tributes to their spiritual guidance.

Join us in crafting narratives that are deeply personal, respectful, and truly echo the essence of the spiritual beacons who have left a lasting impact on our lives.

Mentioning names is not mandatory but can be a touching way to personally acknowledge individuals who have been especially supportive or close to the deceased. If you choose to mention names, ensure to include all significant individuals to avoid any feelings of exclusion.

Yes, incorporating meaningful quotes or poems can add depth to your speech, allowing you to convey feelings or thoughts that resonate with the occasion. When selecting quotes or poems, choose those that reflect the personality or beliefs of the deceased or that offer comfort and solace to the grieving.

When addressing different groups, it's respectful to acknowledge them based on their relationship to the deceased, such as family members, friends, colleagues, or community members. You can also mention specific groups who have a significant presence, such as members of a club or organization that the deceased was a part of.

Children can indeed be involved in delivering a thank you speech if they are willing and comfortable to do so. It can be a touching and heartfelt addition to the ceremony. However, it's essential to ensure that they are supported and prepared to handle the emotional weight of the occasion.

Absolutely, it is perfectly natural to show emotions during the speech. Funerals are emotional occasions, and showing your feelings can be a sincere and genuine way to express your grief and gratitude.

If you find yourself too emotional to continue, you can take a moment to compose yourself before proceeding. If necessary, you might have a backup person prepared to step in and continue the speech on your behalf. It's important to prioritize your well-being during such a poignant moment.

Certainly, thanking individuals who contributed to the funeral arrangements is a kind gesture that acknowledges their efforts during a difficult time. You might mention those who helped with logistical arrangements, provided flowers, or offered emotional support and assistance.

Including humor in a thank you speech is a personal choice and depends on the personality of the deceased and the general atmosphere of the funeral. If the deceased was known for their sense of humor, including light-hearted anecdotes or stories might be a fitting tribute. However, it's crucial to approach humor with sensitivity, considering the somber nature of the occasion.

To make the speech more personal and touching, you might include personal anecdotes, share fond memories of the deceased, or describe the qualities and virtues that made them unique. Speaking from the heart and expressing your genuine feelings can make the speech more poignant and memorable.

To prepare for the speech, you might practice reading it aloud several times to become familiar with the flow and tone. It can also be helpful to practice in front of a friend or family member who can provide feedback and support. Remember, it's not about delivering a perfect speech, but about expressing your gratitude and honoring the memory of the deceased in a sincere and heartfelt way.

Starting with a warm, heartfelt line that acknowledges the presence of attendees and expresses gratitude can set a compassionate tone for the rest of the speech. You might consider lines such as, "Thank you all for gathering here to remember and celebrate [deceased's name]'s life..." or "In this moment of grief, your presence brings great comfort and solidarity..."

To convey gratitude effectively, be genuine and specific in your acknowledgments. You might thank people for their support, kindness, and the various ways they've honored the deceased's memory. Mentioning specific gestures or contributions can also be a touching way to express your gratitude.

A well-structured thank you speech could start with a warm introduction, followed by acknowledgments of different groups present, expressions of gratitude for the support received during the grieving process, and specific mentions of meaningful gestures or contributions. You might also include personal anecdotes or memories of the deceased, before closing with a final word of thanks.

Absolutely, sharing fond memories can be a beautiful part of a thank you speech. It allows you to reminisce and celebrate the positive moments, qualities, and achievements of the deceased's life, offering comfort and inspiration to others.

Yes, it is appropriate to thank religious leaders or community figures who have played a significant role in the funeral service or in supporting the family during the time of loss. It's a respectful gesture that acknowledges their guidance and assistance.

Ending your speech with heartfelt final remarks that encapsulate your feelings of gratitude and the collective appreciation of the attendees can be a touching conclusion. You might consider lines such as, "Thank you all for being a pillar of support during these trying times..." or "As we bid farewell to [deceased's name], let us carry their memory in our hearts, united in gratitude and love..."

The length of the speech can vary depending on personal preference and the nature of the funeral service. Generally, a speech lasting around 5-10 minutes would be sufficient to express your gratitude without extending the ceremony unduly. It's more important to focus on conveying your message sincerely, rather than adhering to a strict time limit.

It's perfectly okay to write down your speech. Having a written speech can help you organize your thoughts clearly and ensure you cover all the points you want to mention. It can also be a support if you find yourself too emotional to continue from memory.

The language used in a thank you speech should be heartfelt, respectful, and inclusive. It's advisable to use simple, clear language that conveys your message sincerely and can be easily understood by all attendees.

Writing an impactful thank you speech at a funeral can be challenging, but with preparation, reflection, and the support of those around you, it will undoubtedly be a beautiful and heartfelt tribute. For additional help in crafting a personalized eulogy or thank you speech, try using our Professional Eulogy Writing Service. It's designed to work with you, navigating the complexities of grief and helping you express your deepest love and gratitude in a meaningful and engaging way.

Looking For Examples? Here Are Some of The Best Eulogies

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Funeral Speech Examples for a Heartfelt Eulogy

We hope our funeral speech examples will inspire you to write a heartfelt eulogy to honour your loved one.

Delivering a funeral speech can be a daunting task.  Quite apart from the challenge of speaking in front of people while in a highly charged emotional state, the task of actually writing the funeral speech can be overwhelming. 

We are here to help you tackle this important job especially if you are in a state of shock from the grief of losing your loved one.

Further down the page there are links to example eulogies for all loved ones, friends or colleagues to give you inspiration.

Sales from links on this page result in a small commission to us, which enables us to continue to provide free content to help the grieving.  

Guidelines for Writing Funeral Speeches:

First of all, we have put together the following simple guidelines to help you to think of things to say: 

• Speak from the heart and say how you feel about the person
• Describe the person's qualities
• Talk about their career, jobs, hobbies and passions
• Talk about their relationships with family, friends and colleagues
• Mention things that you inherited or learned from them
• Perhaps mention some people who will be at the funeral
• Mention a couple of funny stories if appropriate
• Keep it real and don't be afraid of mentioning their less good points - you don't have to put them on a pedestal
• Thank people for coming to the funeral and for their support

Next, read the following two pages to give you step by step instructions on writing the eulogy and giving the speech:  

'How to write a eulogy'  

'How to give a eulogy' 

Eulogy Sample Speeches

All the following links are sample eulogies written about real people.  The ones for a father were written by myself and my brother when my Dad died.  The one for a mother was written by my mother (founder of this website) about her own Mum.  

Many of the others have been written for us by guest writers about their own lost loved ones.  

We hope they will give you some ideas for writing your own moving tribute.  

Eulogy Examples for a Father

Eulogy for a Father-in-Law

Eulogy for a Mother

Eulogy for a Mother by a Daughter

Eulogy for a Mother in Law

Eulogy for a Husband

Eulogy for a Wife

Eulogy for a Grandmother

Eulogy for a Grandfather

Eulogy for an Aunt

Eulogies for an Uncle

Two Eulogies for a Brother

One More Eulogy for a Brother

Eulogy for a Sister

Eulogy for a Best Friend

A Humorous Eulogy for a Friend

Eulogy for a Mentor

Eulogy for a Friend

Printable Eulogy Templates

Finally, to help you with your task of writing your funeral speech, we have some printable templates as a guide to write eulogies for adults and for children. 

Print them out and then fill in the information and stories for your own departed loved one.  

Free Eulogy Templates

Related Pages: 

Planning a Funeral - Step by Step

Funeral Music

How to Deal with Grief

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• Condolences & What To Say

5 Sample Opening Remarks for a Funeral or Memorial

Updated 04/5/2024

Published 10/27/2020

Kate Wight, BA in English

Contributing writer

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

Public speaking is a challenge for many people. It can be nerve-racking to stand in front of a group of people and give a speech. You may find it even more challenging in a situation where heightened emotion is involved. One example of this is the opening remarks for a funeral. 

Sitting down to write out what you want to say is the first step, but even that may feel overwhelming. If you’re grieving, your creativity may feel like it has run dry. 

Sometimes the hardest part is just getting started. Here we’ll share some tips on writing opening remarks for a funeral service. We’ll also provide some examples of ways people have opened funeral speeches. 

Virtual funeral tip: If you're speaking at a virtual funeral using a service like GatheringUs , make sure you know how much time you'll have to speak. If you're hosting the funeral, you can work with GatheringUs to create a detailed itinerary that you'll follow on the day.

Jump ahead to these sections:

Tips for writing opening remarks for a funeral.

• Sample Opening Remarks for a Funeral Service

Before we look at some examples of opening remarks, let’s break down some tips for writing them.

1. Keep it brief

There are many speaking roles available at funerals. Friends and family members may be asked to give readings of meaningful poems or religious texts. And at many funerals, someone will deliver a eulogy that’s usually between three and five minutes long.

Your opening remarks don’t have to be that long. You should be able to say what you need to say in just a minute or two. 

2. Set the tone

There are many different kinds of funerals. Some are religious, and some are secular. Some have a more somber tone, while others take on a more celebratory bent. There are typically clues to this in the funeral announcement.

For example, generally, people know ahead of time if they’re going to a   celebration of life service as opposed to a more traditional funeral. 

If you’re making opening remarks, make sure they fit in with the overall tone of the service. If the funeral is meant to be a lighthearted celebration, you can infuse your remarks with a little humor. If it’s a serious service honoring a distinguished person, your remarks should be more formal. 

3. Make everyone feel welcome

Funeral opening remarks are almost akin to a   funeral thank you speech . You want to make sure everyone feels as though they have been warmly welcomed.

One way to do that is to express your gratitude to people for coming. Be open and sincere about what their presence means for you. This will make them feel less like an audience and more like they’re part of a meaningful occasion.   

4. Talk about the deceased

If a eulogy is on the schedule for later in the ceremony, you shouldn’t give much biographical background on the deceased, as it might end up being repeated later. But you should speak briefly about the deceased, as they are the person who has brought everyone together. You can refer to them by name, and you can also mention your relationship with them for anyone who doesn’t know.

If you’re including a quote to get started, make sure it’s something you think they would have connected with. That’s an easy way to make your remarks feel more personalized.

5. Get feedback

Since you’re setting the tone for the rest of the service, it’s a good idea to get some feedback on your remarks once you’ve written them .

Work with the person planning the funeral, or with someone who is helping them with logistics. This will ensure that everyone is on the same page.

6. Practice

Public speaking can be anxiety-inducing even for professionals. It can be even more challenging when you’re experiencing profound emotions like grief. Practice your remarks until you feel comfortable delivering them. Repetition like this can help you feel more confident no matter how sad or scared you might feel. 

If you’re speaking at a funeral, chances are you’ve looked up specific resources, like how to write a eulogy . But you may have had a harder time finding a comprehensive guide on writing opening remarks. 

Here are some examples of funeral service opening remarks to help you craft your own.

Sample remarks for a religious funeral

Thessalonians 4:13 reads, “Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.”

Anyone who knew my mother quickly learned that she was a woman of deep and abiding faith. Though she had been ill for some time she was not sad, nor did she fear death. In the weeks before she passed away, we talked a lot about what was waiting for her after she left the earthly plane. 

She told me that she knew people would be sad, and that was okay. But she hoped that our grief would be tempered by remembering that she has gone to a better place. That was my mother in a nutshell. 

She was always comforting others, even when it probably should have been the other way around. Thank you all for joining our family today to remember such a special and selfless individual.

Sample remarks for a non-religious funeral

Looking around the room today I see many familiar faces, as well as some new ones. This isn’t surprising to me. My sister Marian has always been a gregarious and outgoing person. 

She never met a stranger: everyone was always immediately a potential new friend. It made things interesting. 

Once we were on vacation in a city we’d never been to, and we still managed to run into someone Marian knew. She deeply cared about people, and it warms my heart to see that so many of the people she loved are here. 

Our family looks forward to connecting with you after the service. Thank you all for supporting us through such a difficult loss.

Sample remarks for someone who died suddenly

Maya Angelou once wrote, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” 

My cousin Rebecca was one of those people who always made people feel loved and welcomed. She was always willing to step up and help people in need. She made everyone feel not just good, but also important or valued.

Looking out at everyone here today, I see so many people Rebecca loved. And I realize that even in death, she is looking out for us. The people she has supported are here to support us, and that’s a beautiful feeling.  

Sample remarks for someone who died after a long illness

Greetings, and thank you all for coming today. We are here today to honor a very special person: my dad. As most of you know, my dad has been ill for several years. But no matter how much time we had to prepare for this day, we still don’t feel ready to say goodbye.

We appreciate how many of you have come to support us during this difficult time. As per Dad’s request, today will not be a traditional funeral. Instead, we will have a celebration of life in honor of the joy he brought to so many people.

Sample remarks for a child

A.A. Milne wrote, “If there ever comes a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart, I’ll stay there forever.” 

In just his few short years on this planet, Remy had such a major impact on everyone whose paths he crossed. We appreciate more than we can say that you’ve come to help his family through this difficult time. 

Today, we gather together to remember Remy and the light he brought into our lives. Like me, I know you all will continue keeping him in your hearts today and always.

Set the Tone for a Funeral with Your Opening Remarks

For some people, speaking in public will never be easy. And delivering even a brief speech when you’re in mourning can be extremely challenging. But even if you aren’t comfortable speaking in public, it’s important to honor our loved ones. Speaking about what they meant to their surviving friends and family is a powerful gesture.

The right words can even help bring closure or comfort to grieving loved ones. If you’ve been asked to speak at a funeral, remember that everyone is in the same boat as you are. They’re also in mourning. Even if your speech doesn’t go perfectly, people won’t mind. As long as you speak from the heart, they’ll connect with you. 

If you need more help with planning a funeral or memorial service, read our guides on funeral flowers for grandchildren and what shoes to wear to a funeral . 

Post-planning tip: If you are the executor for a deceased loved one, the funeral isn't the only thing you have to handle. We have a post-loss checklist  that will help you ensure that your loved one's family, estate , and other affairs are taken care of.

• "Funerals and Memorial Practices." Baylor University Medical Humanities Program . https://medicalhumanities.artsandsciences.baylor.edu/sites/g/files/ecbvkj751/files/2022-07/Hoy2020_ReferenceWorkEntry_FuneralsAndMemorialPractices.pdf

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