It may be the most meaningful writing you ever do--preparing your remarks when you stand up before friends and family to honor someone you loved.
Describing anyone....and what that person meant to you...requires insight, and courage.
You don't need to summarize the facts as in an obituary. Eulogies aren't resumes or mini-biographies. Your audience will include many people who already know the person who passed away, so you want to be more personal.
Some memorial services are more formal and cleary members approve one or two eulogies beforehand. Others might include four or five short statements--or extemporaneous remarks.
Prepare by brainstorming. You might take notes by drawing a circle with the person's name in it and listing qualities inside the circle. You can do some reporting and ask other close relatives for their stories and suggestions.
When you make statements, give details and tell stories. If Dad was a great listener, tell a story about a time he heard out an angry neighbor or colleague. You could also include a story about how he listened to you. But it's important not to focus too much on yourself. A eulogy isn't about your grief or relationship. It's about the person you loved.
Revise. Ask a friend to read your remarks and be open to their insights. Be punchy: 8 minutes is probably the longest you should speak.
Think of your eulogy as a gift to the other mourners. Putting some effort into this moment--even though you may have little time and feel overwhelmed--will bring rewards for years to come if you make it memorable. Laughs are good. Tears are fine. You may surprise yourself with your eloquence.
For more writing tips, see expertediting.org.