Who reads the eulogy at a funeral?

070102-F-0193C-006 Washington, D.C. (Jan. 2, 2007) - President George W. Bush delivers a eulogy during funeral services for former President Gerald R. Ford at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. Following the funeral services in Washington, Ford's remains will be flown to the Gerald R. Ford Museum in Grand Rapids, Mich., for burial. DoD photo by Staff Sgt. D. Myles Cullen (RELEASED)


There is no hard and fast rule as to who should give the eulogy speech at a funeral. It’s typically given by those who were particularly close, or had a special relationship with, the loved one who passed. It could be a best friend, a spouse, a child or grandchild, or even a co-worker.

Who is the person who talks at a funeral?

This person is called the officiant. If your loved one was involved in a religion, the clergy from his or her church may be the logical choice.

Is a eulogy for the audience or deceased?

A eulogy is a speech given at a memorial service in memory of a person who has died. The purpose is to recall the defining qualities and highlights of a life lived in a way that benefits the audience, particularly the family. It should capture the essence of the life lived.

Where is a eulogy given?

Eulogies may be given as part of funeral services. In the US, they take place in a funeral home during or after a wake; in the UK, they are said during the service, typically at a crematorium or place of worship, before the wake.