Eulogy for a mother: sample and template
A gentle eulogy for a mother, structured the way Kenyan families usually present it.
Eulogy
[Full name] was born on [date] in [village], [county], to the late [father's name] and [mother's name], the [second] of [number] children. From an early age she was the one her siblings ran to, and she never stopped being that person for anyone who knew her.
She attended [primary school] and [secondary school], and trained as a [teacher/nurse/tailor] at [college]. For [number] years she served [employer or community], and many of her former [students/patients/customers] have called this week to tell us what she meant to them.
In [year] she married our father, [name]. Mum could stretch one chicken to feed twenty, turn a small garden into a harvest and a quiet evening into a lesson. She was an active member of [church or women's group], where she served as [role].
She loved [singing in the choir / her kitchen garden / her grandchildren] above everything. Her prayers for us were constant, and we believe they will keep working long after today.
After [a short illness / a long illness bravely borne], Mum passed on peacefully on [date] at [place].
She leaves her husband, [name]; her children [names]; [number] grandchildren; her siblings [names]; and a family that will forever carry her kindness. Mama, thank you for everything. Rest in perfect peace.
Put it in a printable programme
Tips
- Use the name the grandchildren used for her. It makes the room smile.
- Include one of her sayings word for word.
- Thank the people who cared for her in her last months.
How do you write a eulogy for a Mother?
Follow their life in order: birth and early life, education, work, family, faith and character, a brief and gentle word on their passing, and a farewell. Add one or two true stories. Use the name the grandchildren used for her. It makes the room smile.
How long should a eulogy be?
When read aloud, about five to seven minutes, or 700 to 900 words. In a printed programme it can be a little longer.