It is one of the greatest weights and privileges we can bestow upon someone — to offer the eulogy. However, there is often a question about who is supposed to read the eulogy at a funeral service. Should it be the best person to read the eulogy in terms of ability to speak and deliver? Should it be someone who loved them dearly, a member of the clergy, or the pastor?
The good news is there is no law that dictates who is supposed to read the eulogy at a funeral service. There are, though, some traditions within some religions, and even religious mandates (e.g., final rights) as to who is and isn’t permitted to perform certain functions.
Outside of those faiths, however, there is little to define the etiquette of who should or who is the best person to read the eulogy at a funeral. Once again, this isn’t often debated, and these issues often become clearer as the initial hurt, shock, and loss of a loved one begin to subside.
A Heart Issue
When it isn’t dictated by your religion, then it should always be led by your heart. Perhaps the real question is, in the end, who would they want to read their eulogy? More often than not, it is the person either closest to the deceased, or someone who loved them and typically for a considerable portion of their lives.
Spouses are often first candidates, along with parents, yet these relationships are commonly too close-knit, making the task of offering the eulogy an unwanted one or too painful. Lifetime friends, close cousins, and others who loved and knew the deceased well could also be good candidates for the reading.
About Love, Not Linguistics
Just remember, that when it comes to reading a eulogy, it is about the love and heart it takes to write and deliver it. Those in attendance will be much happier hearing from someone who isn’t a polished speaker but speaks with love versus an emotionless professional orator.
This is our goodbye. This is our remembrance of a life, and often of love, and so much more. Perhaps it isn’t even about who reads or writes the eulogy, but nothing more or less than the heart behind it.
Steedley Monument Works
Welcome to Steedley Monument Works. Since 1968, we have proudly served as the premier monument makers for Walterboro, SC, and the surrounding area. As a third-generation family-owned and operated company, we strive to provide our customers with the most caring and personal services and a fair price.
We use numerous methods, such as laser etching, shape carving, sandblasting, and more. Additionally, we offer all types of granite and marble for your perfect purchase. Contact us if you have any questions or to order a monument for your loved one today. Thank you for visiting Steedley Monument Works. We are sorry for your loss, and we are here to help.