How long should a eulogy be?

[NumberTen]

Is around 15 minutes too long for a eulogy at a funeral?

Nobody else will be speaking, other than the priest.

Yes, I think so.

People asked to speak generally don't go above 5 mins, and often will be shorter than that

5 minutes maximum. Less is more.

2 sides of A4 really. Any more gets too lengthy.

Ten minutes max, preferably five. Any longer and you risk your listeners getting fidgety. Two sides of A4 is a good guide.

Yes it's probably a bit too long, unless you've been asked specifically to talk about certain things by the family, and to do so would require the full 15 minutes. If, however, it's just your own thoughts and feelings (however important and relevant these are to you), then I'd suggest a little editing to try to shorten it a bit.

I'm a professional celebrant, and I try to encourage my clients to leave out certain parts of their loved ones story if I feel it's becoming too long.

I'd be happy to read over your Eulogy and help if you like OP. Sorry for your loss 💐

It is usual to get in touch with the priest to go through timings etc - we did this we it’s FIL’s service and MIL’s just for timing purposes.5 minutes is surprisingly long when reading a eulogy.

Unless you are an exceptionally good speaker I would recommend 5mins and 10 as an absolute maximum.

But do check with the priest, as whilst timing is often less of an issue if the service is in a church, if they are taking the service for you in a crematorium, some busy ones the whole service can only last 20 minutes

The Vicar will tell you how long they will want you to speak. Services are usually 40 minutes with 2 or 3 hymns, entering and leaving music, plus one song in between and prayers, so I think 5 minutes 10 max would be ok.

Is it just facts, or does it include stories too?

A good eulogy should start with the facts (where they were born, where they studied, what their job was etc), a few funny stories, then ending with the conclusion that they were much loved and will be deeply missed.

Well, do check that.
Often the celebrant will give the factual detail toolazy suggests.
You don't want to then stand up and repeat everything.

I'm a funeral arranger. Is the funeral service in church or at a crematorium? Often crems only allow 30-40 mins per slot and that includes getting people in and out of the chapel. If it's a church service you may be allowed longer. Is the priest doing any poems, prayers or readings? Are you having any hymns or music, or a period of reflection? You really should work closely with the priest who will guide you as to how long you can have so that you don't overrun. Around 10 mins is usually long enough in the running order.