10 of the Best Eulogies Ever Written
Crafting the Best Eulogies Ever Written: Inspiration and Examples
Eulogies offer a heartfelt way to honor and celebrate the lives of those we’ve lost, capturing their essence and the impact they had on others. Crafting the perfect eulogy can be challenging, especially during an emotionally charged time, but the right words can create a lasting tribute. In this article, we’ve compiled some of the best eulogies ever written, showcasing a range of styles—from touching reflections to humorous anecdotes—that bring each individual’s legacy to life.
With examples like Billy Crystal’s tribute to Robin Williams and George W. Bush’s farewell to his father, George H.W. Bush, each eulogy offers unique inspiration for honoring a loved one. We’ll explore what makes these eulogies memorable and how they can guide you in creating a personal, meaningful tribute. Whether you’re writing a eulogy for a family member, friend, or colleague, these examples provide comfort, insight, and ideas to help you capture their life in words.
Sarah Johnson
Professional Eulogy Writer
Sarah wrote a beautiful eulogy for my father in just 24 hours. It was perfect.
— Michael T.
Let Us Write Your Eulogy
Finding the right words is hard. Our professional writers have helped over 500 families create beautiful, personalized eulogies.
1. Graham Chapman’s Eulogy by John Cleese
Highlights: Known for breaking eulogy norms, John Cleese’s tribute to fellow comedian Graham Chapman is filled with humor and irreverence. Cleese opens with a list of tongue-in-cheek phrases like “he’s kicked the bucket” and delivers what he famously called the “first **” at a British memorial service.
Why It’s Memorable: Cleese’s speech captures the essence of Chapman’s life in a way that would have delighted him—comedic, shocking, and true to their Monty Python spirit. His eulogy is an unconventional yet fitting send-off, celebrating Chapman’s life with the humor they shared.
2. Billy Crystal’s Tribute to Robin Williams
Highlights: Billy Crystal’s eulogy for Robin Williams balances humor with heartfelt admiration. Sharing funny memories, such as Williams pretending to be a “Russian baseball player” at a Mets game, Crystal portrays his friend as a brilliant, generous entertainer.
Why It’s Memorable: Crystal captures the essence of Williams by celebrating his ability to bring joy to countless lives. He reflects on their friendship with warmth and closes with a poetic comparison of Williams to a celestial body whose light will continue to shine.
3. Ricky Townsend’s Eulogy for His Friend Austin
Highlights: In a deeply personal speech, Ricky Townsend celebrates his friendship with Austin using humor and gratitude. He shares memories that highlight Austin’s playful and witty nature, like the running joke about Townsend forgetting his wallet.
Why It’s Memorable: Townsend’s eulogy is refreshingly authentic, highlighting not only Austin’s kindness but also his quirks. His closing words, “Austin, thank you for everything,” offer a sincere expression of love and respect.
4. Eulogy for Grandma Judy by Corey
Highlights: Corey’s eulogy for his grandmother, Judy, blends humor, honesty, and deep love for her spirited personality. He shares anecdotes like her using a “shillelagh” to keep grandchildren in line and her habit of reminding them she had gift receipts.
Why It’s Memorable: Corey’s tribute is filled with authenticity and affection. By ending with a commitment to keep her legacy alive, he offers a heartfelt farewell that resonates with anyone who’s had a special bond with a grandparent.
5. Ted Kennedy’s Eulogy for Robert F. Kennedy
Highlights: Ted Kennedy emphasizes Robert’s unwavering dedication to justice and compassion, quoting his brother’s own speeches to highlight his ideals.
Why It’s Memorable: The iconic closing line, “Some men see things as they are and say, why? I dream things that never were and say, why not?” encapsulates Robert’s hopeful vision and legacy of service.
6. Obama’s Tribute to Senator John McCain
Highlights: Barack Obama honors McCain’s legacy of courage, integrity, and humor. Recalling their political differences, he shares how McCain asked him to “say nice things” at his funeral.
Why It’s Memorable: Obama turns McCain’s farewell into a call for unity and respect amid differences. The speech transcends politics, celebrating a life committed to service and resilience.
7. Daughter of Fallen Officer Delivers Heartbreaking Eulogy
Highlights: Shelby remembers tender moments with her father, like him showing up in “plaid pajama pants.” Despite grief, she extends forgiveness to the man who took his life.
Why It’s Memorable: Shelby’s eulogy is remarkable for its grace and compassion. Her words are a moving example of love, faith, and inner peace.
8. Tom Hanks’ Eulogy for Michael Clarke Duncan
Highlights: Tom Hanks shares a humorous story about Duncan’s youth and kindness, showing how his gentle nature stood out even in unlikely places.
Why It’s Memorable: Hanks blends laughter with admiration to bring Duncan’s character to life, making this tribute joyful and unforgettable.
9. Sara Thompson’s Eulogy for Her Mother, Frances
Highlights: Sara mixes humor and vulnerability, sharing stories like her mom ending voicemails with “amen” and struggling with answering machines.
Why It’s Memorable: Her tribute captures a mother’s quirky spirit and lasting impact. It’s a beautiful message of resilience and community.
10. George W. Bush’s Eulogy for His Father, George H.W. Bush
Highlights: George W. Bush shares funny and moving moments from his father’s adventurous life—like boat racing at 85 and skydiving at 90.
Why It’s Memorable: This tribute blends humor and love, closing with the touching vision of Bush Sr. reunited with loved ones in heaven.
Tips for Writing the Best Eulogies Ever Written
Crafting a eulogy can be one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate a loved one’s life. Here are some thoughtful tips to help you create one of the best eulogies ever written:
1. Capture Their Essence with a Simple Story
Start with a small, defining moment that brings their personality to life. For example: “No matter how early I arrived, Julius was always there first.”
2. Share Unique and Personal Stories
Include moments that may be unfamiliar to others but reflect who they truly were—humorous, heartfelt, or quirky.
3. Use Humor to Celebrate Their Personality
Don’t shy away from light-hearted memories. Even a favorite snack or inside joke adds warmth and connection.
4. End with a Heartfelt Goodbye
Close with words that express what they meant to you—gratitude, personal reflection, or a poetic tribute like Oprah’s: “I marvel at your will; I celebrate your strength.”
In the end, the best eulogies ever written are those that truly honor a person’s unique life. Through heartfelt stories and a personal touch, you can craft a tribute that beautifully reflects their legacy and brings comfort to everyone gathered.
Sarah Johnson
Professional Eulogy Writer
Sarah wrote a beautiful eulogy for my father in just 24 hours. It was perfect.
— Michael T.
Let Us Write Your Eulogy
Finding the right words is hard. Our professional writers have helped over 500 families create beautiful, personalized eulogies.