When you're asked to deliver a eulogy speech, it's important that you recognize it for what it is - an honor. A eulogy is after all a speech that is in praise of someone who has passed, and it is often delivered at a funeral or wake. Anyone can deliver a eulogy, be it a family member, friend of the deceased or even a religious leader. As a rule of thumb, one generally speaks of the deceased's achievements, family life, his character and even his hobbies. Anything that describes the deceased and puts him in a good light can be incorporated into the eulogy.

Generally, if you are not a member of the deceased's immediate family, then it would be advisable for you to talk to his family. Write down the details of his life, his accolades and special memories that his family members may wish to include in the eulogy. When you have enough information to form an insight into the life of the deceased, then you can begin to write your delivery.

Very often, people will begin with a light story that touches on who the deceased was in life. In this way, they then have a lead into what it is they would like to say about the departed. For example, if the deceased had a great love of poetry, you may wish to begin with one of his favorite poems. In the case of a teacher, you may wish to begin with something contributed by his class of students. In this way, not only will your speech reflect your opinion of the deceased but also that of his students and others who knew him. It is important to relate as much about his life and achievements without recounting every minute detail of his past.

If the deceased in fact had a great sense of humor, you may wish to include his favorite joke in your eulogy. After all, what better way can there be to commemorate a man who enjoyed a good laugh than by sharing his favorite joke with all who are present at his funeral. However, you would do well to keep the joke appropriate to the occasion. Save the lewd and tawdry ones for after, when you're in the presence of friends.

It is also important to be brief. Brevity is key. Even if you opt to speak for just a couple of minutes, the deceased's family will appreciate it if you can capture the spirit of the man in that brief time than if you were to spend a half hour relating every little detail of his life. Also, you would do well to remember to keep your speech as true to the man as possible. Avoid painting a picture of a saint unless he really was one. As nobody is perfect, neither should your eulogy make him out to be so. In fact, keeping it real, even including some of his weaknesses like impatience can add color to your speech. For example, you can simply state, "I won't go on for too long, especially as John would not have approved. In fact, John was never one for patience. Why I remember the time..."

If at any time you find you are becoming emotional and unable to continue, you can take a breather and collect yourself or simply hand over the notes to a member of the clergy to read out. Those present would understand that you are simply overcome with emotion and appreciate that you have given it your best. At least you tried.