Blog Layout

How to Write a Eulogy for a Mother

Writing a eulogy for your mother is one of the most personal and heartfelt ways to honour her life and legacy. As someone who played a central role in shaping your life, your mother’s passing can be deeply emotional, making it difficult to find the right words. At Stephen M. Godber, we understand the emotional weight of this task, and we are here to offer guidance on how to express your feelings, memories, and love in a way that truly honours her.


What is a Eulogy?

A eulogy is a speech given at a funeral or memorial service to pay tribute to the person who has passed away. It allows you to reflect on your mother's life, share cherished memories, and celebrate the qualities that made her special. The goal of a eulogy is to provide comfort to those grieving while offering a heartfelt reflection on the impact your mother had on the lives of her family and friends.


How to Start a Eulogy for a Mother

Beginning a eulogy for your mother can feel overwhelming, but starting with sincerity and simplicity can help ease you into the process. Here are a few approaches you can take:


  • Introduce Yourself and Acknowledge the Moment
    Start by introducing yourself and acknowledging the loss that everyone is feeling. This can help you connect with the audience and set the tone for the rest of your eulogy.

Example: “Good afternoon, my name is Emma, and today, I have the honour of sharing some thoughts about my mother, who meant the world to me and to all of us gathered here.”

  • Express Gratitude and Acknowledge Grief
    Acknowledge the sadness of the occasion but also express gratitude for the time you had with your mother. This balance can help set a respectful and heartfelt tone.

Example: “Today is a difficult day as we gather to say goodbye to my incredible mother. While our hearts are heavy, I’m also deeply grateful for the love, support, and memories she gave us.”

  • Start with a Meaningful Quote, Poem, or Verse
    Beginning with a meaningful quote, poem, or scripture that your mother loved or that reflects her life can provide a poignant introduction.

Example: “As Maya Angelou once said, ‘A mother’s love liberates.’ My mother embodied this in everything she did—her love was a source of strength and freedom for all of us.”

funeral black and white

What to Include in a Eulogy for a Mother

Once you’ve begun, the main part of your eulogy should highlight your mother’s life, character, and the memories you cherish. Here’s a simple structure to follow:


  • Her Life Story and Accomplishments
    Briefly touch on your mother’s background—her upbringing, family, career, and key life achievements. This can provide context and help those attending understand the journey she lived.

Example: “My mother, Susan, was born and raised in a small town, where she met my father and started our family. She was a devoted mother, a passionate gardener, and a woman who always put others before herself.”

  • Her Role as a Mother
    Reflect on the special bond you shared with your mother. Talk about the ways she supported you, nurtured your dreams, and shaped the person you are today. You can include personal anecdotes or specific moments that highlight her care and love.

Example: “My mother was my biggest cheerleader. No matter how small the achievement, she celebrated it like it was the greatest thing in the world. I’ll never forget the time she stayed up with me all night, helping me prepare for a school project, even though she had work the next morning.”

  • Her Qualities and Character
    Consider your mother’s personality and what made her unique. Was she kind, adventurous, wise, or incredibly patient? Reflect on how these qualities influenced her relationships and those around her.

Example: “More than anything, my mother taught me the value of kindness. She believed in helping others, no matter how small the gesture. Her compassion for those around her was limitless, and I know her kindness lives on in each of us who were lucky enough to know her.”

  • Cherished Memories
    Share a few specific memories that stand out to you. These personal stories help bring her character to life and can offer comfort to those grieving. You can include funny, touching, or profound moments that show who she was beyond her role as a mother.

Example: “I’ll always remember the way Mum could make any family dinner feel like a special occasion. Whether it was a holiday or a simple weeknight, she made sure our table was filled with laughter, warmth, and love.”

  • Her Legacy
    End this section by talking about the lasting impact your mother had on your life and the lives of others. Her legacy may be reflected in the lessons she taught, the love she gave, or the values she instilled in her family.

Example: “Mum’s legacy is the love she shared with all of us. She taught me the importance of kindness, strength, and always being there for the people you love. Her spirit will continue to guide me for the rest of my life.”


How Long Should a Eulogy for a Mother Be?

A eulogy should generally be between 5 and 10 minutes long. This gives you enough time to share meaningful memories and reflections without overwhelming yourself or the audience. If others will also be speaking, it’s a good idea to keep your eulogy closer to 5 minutes. Focus on a few key moments and reflections to ensure your speech feels cohesive and heartfelt.


How to End a Eulogy for a Mother

Concluding a eulogy for your mother can be just as important as the opening. Here are a few ways to end on a note that honours her life:


  • Summarise Her Impact and Say Goodbye
    End by reflecting on your mother’s lasting impact and offering a final farewell.

Example: “Mum may no longer be with us, but the love she gave us and the lessons she taught will stay with us forever. We will miss her every day, but we are comforted knowing she will always be in our hearts. Goodbye, Mum—we love you.”

  • Close with a Meaningful Quote or Poem
    Choose a meaningful quote, poem, or scripture that sums up your feelings or reflects your mother’s life.

Example: “I’d like to end with a quote from Proverbs: ‘Her children rise up and call her blessed.’ That is how we will always remember you, Mum—blessed and beloved.”

  • Express Gratitude
    Thank those who have gathered to honour your mother’s memory.

Example: “Thank you all for being here today to remember and celebrate my mother’s life. Your support means the world to our family, and I know Mum would be touched to see how loved she was.”


Final Thoughts on Writing a Eulogy for a Mother

Writing a eulogy for your mother is a deeply personal way to honour her life and memory. While it may feel overwhelming, remember that the most important part of a eulogy is speaking from the heart. At Stephen M. Godber, we are here to support you through this emotional process and help you create a meaningful tribute that reflects your mother’s life and the love you shared.


If you need further guidance or assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our compassionate team. We’re here to offer our support as you prepare to say goodbye to your mother in a way that feels true to your relationship and her memory.

carrying a coffin
February 24, 2025
Discover the simplicity and affordability of pure cremation. Learn how it works and why it may be the right choice for your loved one.
Japanese Funeral
January 24, 2025
Learn what to wear to an Asian funeral with our cultural guide, covering Chinese, Indian, Buddhist, Muslim, Japanese & Korean traditions.
wooden coffins
January 24, 2025
Explore different coffin materials, from traditional wood to eco-friendly options, and find the perfect choice with Stephen M Godber Funerals.
funeral director on the phone
December 16, 2024
Explore how funeral plans work, their benefits, regulations & if they're worth it. Our Funeral Directors provide expert guidance on pre-paid funeral plans.
funeral flower Wreath
November 25, 2024
Here's a guide to help you understand the significance of funeral flowers and make a thoughtful selection for a funeral.
Public Health Funeral
November 25, 2024
Public health funerals are an essential part of ensuring that everyone receives a respectful and dignified farewell, regardless of their circumstances.
Stephen M Godber Team
By MNA Digital November 25, 2024
We are delighted to announce that Stephen M Godber Funerals Ltd has been named one of the winners of the 2024 SME Midlands Enterprise Awards!
memorial inscriptions
By MNA Digital October 23, 2024
Explore ideas for what to write on headstones, helping you craft a meaningful and lasting inscription.
ashes urn
August 19, 2024
This guide explores some of the most popular & beautiful locations where you can scatter ashes in the UK and also offers insights into scattering ashes abroad
Funeral Flowers
By MNA Digital July 18, 2024
We understand that finding the right words can be challenging, so we’ve put together this guide to help you craft meaningful messages for funeral flowers.
More Posts
Share by: