Guide
Writing a eulogy for your wife
A eulogy for your wife usually runs three to five minutes and focuses on the life you shared: how you met, who she was at home and in the world, and what she meant to your family. It's fine if you can't read it yourself on the day. You can write it and ask someone you trust to read it for you.
By the Lovingly Written team · Updated
Speaking about your life together
You knew her in ways no one else in the room did. That's what makes a spouse's eulogy so powerful, and so hard. You don't need to tell her whole life story; others may cover her childhood, career or friendships. Your part can simply be the marriage: the small, daily things that made up your life together.
What to include
- How you met or an early memory of her.
- Her habits and sayings, the ones the family will recognize instantly.
- How she looked after people, at home, at work or in the community.
- A moment you'll never forget, large or small.
- What you want people to know about her that they might not.
Prompts to help you remember
- What was the first thing you noticed about her?
- What did she always say when you were worried?
- What did she love that surprised people?
- What's a trip, a meal or a day you think about often?
- What did she teach you?
A simple structure
- Say who you are and how long you were together.
- Tell one story from early in your relationship.
- Tell one story from later life.
- Say what she gave your family and friends.
- End with a few words to her.
If you can't read it yourself
Many husbands write the eulogy and ask a son, daughter, brother or friend to read it, or ask the officiant to read a shorter version. You can also stand beside the reader. There's no wrong choice. See our tips for reading a eulogy without breaking down.
Help with the words
Tell us about her and we'll help you write a eulogy from your own memories, in your own voice. See also eulogy for a husband and our eulogy examples.