Speakers

Sometimes, it’s the words that are spoken at funeral services that are the most memorable to the people who attend. When you’re planning your loved one’s final farewell, it’s important to take some time to choose the speakers carefully.

You could choose people who will talk about different parts of your loved one’s life. For example, someone could talk about their early years, someone else could speak about their time at university, and someone else could speak about their later years.

Alternatively, they could talk about the different important aspects of their life. For example, their family, their work, any volunteering or interest groups they were involved in, sports clubs etc.

Choosing a funeral celebrant

A celebrant or emcee can be anyone you choose. It could be a friend of the person who has passed away or someone who is part of the wider family. It can be difficult for someone very close to the deceased to be able to perform these duties.

If you have religious connections to a faith community, the leader of that community would usually take the service as part of their role. If your religious beliefs are not so strongly identified, you may prefer a less formalised service. For example, if your family is Christian but doesn’t belong to any particular Church, you can choose a non-denominational service based on Christian beliefs, taken by a lay preacher or celebrant and tailored to your personal needs.

You can hire a funeral celebrant who is a member of the community who has a special interest in leading public ceremonies. They will spend time with you and your family in the days leading up to the service, to get to know you all and understand your wishes for the service.

Find funeral celebrants

Woman giving a eulogy at a funeral in New Zealand

What should a funeral speaker talk about?

A funeral speaker would usually talk about: who the person was; meaningful memories; what they loved / were known for; their impact on others; gratitude and farewell.

It doesn’t have to be formal and if it suits the person, light humour is often comforting.
Just avoid anything that could embarrass the family or feel like an “inside joke” nobody understands.

If multiple people wish to speak, it can be a good idea to: limit speeches and suggest written tributes; combine speeches (two people speaking together); invite people to share stories at the wake instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many speakers should I have at a funeral?

There is no set structure that you need to follow, it is your choice whether to have one speaker or ten.

Do you have to speak at a funeral if you’re family?

No. There’s no obligation. Grief hits differently, and it’s totally okay to decline or ask someone else to read something on your behalf.

Should the funeral director or celebrant introduce speakers?

Usually yes. It keeps the flow smooth and reduces awkwardness.

Can you speak even if you didn’t know the person who has died well?

Yes, especially if you’re representing: a workplace; a club/church; the wider community. Just keep it respectful and focus on their legacy.

What is the difference between a speaker at a funeral and the celebrant?

The main difference between a speaker at a funeral and a celebrant lies in their role, responsibilities and level of involvement in the overall service. A celebrant is the person who plans and leads the entire ceremony, while a speaker (or eulogist) typically delivers a specific tribute, story, or reading during that ceremony.

What is a eulogy?

A eulogy is a speech about someone’s life, memories shared and moments experienced to give tribute to a person who has died and the people they have impacted throughout their lifetime.
The eulogy is usually read aloud at a farewell service or memorial by a family member, close friend, religious figure or a celebrant. Read more about eulogies and obituaries.

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