Updated September 29th, 2023
Writing a tribute for a grandmother can be a wonderful way to reminisce and celebrate her life. It can be difficult, yes, but it will also allow you, the grandchild, to recall all the fond memories of the relationship you had. Sharing these with family and friends who knew her will keep her memory alive. After all, a grandmother’s magic never really leaves us, even after she is gone.
If you want to write a tribute but are not sure where to begin, read on and we can reminisce together as we look at ways to honor your grandmother.
The Importance of Grandmothers
Those who are fortunate enough to have a close and loving relationship with their grandmother know that there is much more to this bond than just any loved one. The time a family spends at Grandmother’s house is always special and typically consists of the same things. The air is oftentimes filled with laughter, hugs, security, cookies, and the best cooking in the world.
Grandmothers are often responsible for bringing the entire family together. Because grandmothers are such a source of joy for their grandchildren, they are always sorely missed when they pass away.
The fact is, grandmothers hold a unique place in the lives of their grandchildren that cannot be duplicated.
One simple reason is that Grandma has been through it all already. Spilled milk or a temper tantrum won’t phase her. She’s been there and handled it. Grandmothers offer a calm within the storm that parents aren’t always able to.
Grandmothers can perform magic. From a scraped knee to a broken doll, she knows how to make it better. The more time grandchildren get to spend with their grandmother, the more magic they experience. It’s as if grandmother has an unlimited supply of just the right words, actions, and ways of making anyone feel better.
Grandmother has other talents, as well. Regardless of the dish, no one fixes it like grandma. Ever. No one finds the time to focus and play with the grandchild like grandma. She has an unlimited amount of time for her grandkids and is always full of fun ideas.
Unconditional Love
A Grandmother’s love is unconditional. Even if grandchildren ruin their best outfit, leave their room a mess, and bring home a report that would give their parents a sigh, nothing will diminish the love or pride of a grandmother. She will spoil the grandchild to her heart’s content and always tell them how wonderful they are – messy room and clothes be damned.
Grandmothers are wonderful, but they are no mystical fairy godmothers. For a grandchild, the relationship is based on absolute reality. In a child’s world, parents argue, can be impatient, and can lose sight of what is truly important to a child. That is not a grandmother’s reality.
Grandma will always give her grandchildren undivided attention. She knows how to keep a secret. She always knows the right words to say. She is rarely argumentative, and the grandchildren are invariably her first priority.
To most grandchildren, grandmothers are angels without wings. One of the most difficult times a grandchild will face is when grandma passes on and finally gets those well-earned wings.
What to Say at Grandmother’s Funeral?
Though it isn’t something we like to dwell on, death is a part of life. Losing a grandmother is a chapter most of us will have to walk through. In the midst of this loss, how does a grandchild handle it? And, what does one say at a beloved grandmother’s funeral? This is an especially difficult task if the grandmother and grandchild were fortunate enough to be close. It’s normal to miss her terribly.
The biggest thing to remember is to speak about who she was to you. It’s true that writing a tribute to honor your grandmother will bring up a flood of emotions, however, you can trust that they will not all be sad. You can also find joy in a walk down memory lane.
Writing Grandma’s Funeral Tribute
While funerals are inherently sorrowful, there is joy in celebrating someone’s life and sharing happy memories, stories, and uplifting anecdotes. Speaking in front of others can be difficult enough and bearing our emotions can seem excruciating. Therefore, it is a good idea to give some thought to the content before giving the actual speech or eulogy. Make notes of the important things, memories, and feelings, and jot them down. Writing something down can help clarify your thoughts and make expressing them easier and more comfortable.
If you’re feeling too overwhelmed, it is perfectly fine to discuss the situation with family members, who can help you with expressing your feelings more clearly. If you believe you can handle it, you can help other family members process their grief.
Don’t Be Afraid of Humor – Even at a Funeral or Memorial Service
Did grandmother have any unusual habits? Most people do. Perhaps she bought nice clothes but refused to wear them for fear of ruining them. Or maybe she baked the worst cookies in the world, but no one would tell her. Thus, to everyone’s chagrin, she always distributed a huge batch to one and all. Even in sadness, these humorous memories can make people laugh.
In the hit series, “Friends,” Monica and Ross’ beloved grandmother died. It was sad, but the occasion was also sprinkled with laughter when the grandchildren found boxes overflowing with the Sweet and Low packages their dear grandmother had spent years pilfering from restaurants. It humanized the grandmother and brought good memories to Monica and Ross. It allowed them to laugh even while feeling sad and lost.
That said, don’t be afraid of discussing the funnier side or more peculiar habits of your grandmother. It will enliven everyone’s spirit. They surely have similar memories and will find their mood lifted recounting all the wonderful attributes of their loved one who has passed away.
You should also include the things Grandmother taught you – the things she shared about life that were important to you. Those who knew her well will appreciate the information. For those who were less familiar with her, it will help make her more real.
The Importance of Adding Special Anecdotes In Your Speech About Your Beloved Grandmother
The best antidotes to share are those that relate to you personally. Sure, tales of how Grandma spent years swiping Sweet and Low packages are cute. But what will reach people emotionally are anecdotes of how Grandma read you special stories or snuck you candy after your parents forbid it.
You could speak to how she guided your growth by gifting you with special books from which you learned so much, or how she was the only one who encouraged your dream of pursuing music. Sharing those personal times will help you and others remember Grandma in the best way possible. It will also ensure those lessons are passed on to others.
You could speak to how she guided your growth by gifting you with special books from which you learned so much, or how she was the only one who encouraged your dream of pursuing music. Sharing those personal times will help you and others remember Grandma in the best way possible. It will also ensure those lessons are passed on to others.
Her Life Story: Share the Grandmother Few Others Knew About
Grandmother had friends, of course. But few would know her as well as her grandchildren. Maybe she grew up poor and deprived and rose from very little. Maybe she loved romantic movies. There might have been a book she read over and over. Perhaps she volunteered each week for a charity but never talked about it.
Tell your audience what made her different from everyone else. Highlight her uniqueness. These are the tales that will keep her alive forever – her thoughts, strengths, habits, weaknesses, and personal foibles will be remembered by all who loved her.
When people hear the eulogy, they want to feel like they now know her better and understand her more. A grandchild’s memories can bring a grandparent closer to all those around her. These stories can have a powerful effect on those who are mourning her.
Don’t be afraid of speaking about your grandmother. There is nothing worse than feeling that you haven’t said enough.
13 Ideas for Writing a Tribute for Grandmother
Tribute speeches can happen for a number of reasons. Usually, however, they happen at funerals, memorial services, and gatherings to remember and honor someone who has passed away.
As a rule, these tributes follow a certain pattern or discussion of topics.
- What were the important milestones in her life – the good, the bad, and the unusual?
- What was Grandmother passionate about?
- What outstanding gift did she have – cooking, gardening, story-telling? What made Grandmother unique?
- What was her general behavior – bossy, benevolent, determined?
- What were Grandmother’s likes and dislikes?
- What did she do most days?
- What were her greatest challenges and victories?
- How did she handle bad and difficult times?
- What gave her the greatest pleasure?
- What did you and your grandmother do together?
- How did you feel when you were together?
- What is it about Grandmother that you miss the most – your talks, her chocolate chip cookies, or simply her hugs?
- Who, besides you, was Grandmother close to?
Consider all the above when writing a tribute for your grandmother. Some of these points you might never have thought about previously. However, they will help to paint a well-rounded and complete picture of her as a person.
It’s the stories and anecdotes that will make her come alive. The audience will love to hear about her in different roles – grandmother, mother, businesswoman, friend, daughter-in-law. Bring each facet of grandmother to life.
When you start writing, do the following:
- Keep her in the front of your mind. What message do you want to convey to your listeners?
- Start by creating an outline. This helps you organize your thoughts and will keep the audience attentive.
- Make your points by using specific examples. Saying Grandma was a great cook is one thing; saying you looked forward to Grandma’s Christmas turkey and stuffing every year is something else.
- You want to touch the audience’s emotions.
- Have a strong finish, preferably one of cheer and celebration. You can quote a favorite poem or saying that the audience will remember.
- Practice what you will say (all good speakers practice). Preferably, do this in front of a friend or family member to get their reaction and feedback. Remember to make eye contact. Stand up tall. Let your own emotions and feelings shine through.
Example of a Eulogy for Grandmother from Granddaughter
“We’ve chosen the occasion to honor Jane’s beloved grandmother, Betty. She was a very extraordinary person, she loved deeply and lived her life purposefully. Betty was the heartbeat for all my family and she stayed with us if I needed anything. She was calm and comforting and her hugs helped ease the pain, no matter what feelings I was experiencing. My grandmother was generous in words and acts and was always willing to help out. She was fiercely independent and never sought help. Throughout her career, she worked tirelessly in order to support the children of the family. Despite numerous challenges, Betty maintained a steadfast belief in herself and her family and was a source of strength to all those who were around her.”
Two Poems for Grandmother
Reading a memorial poem at your Grandma’s funeral can be a moving and appropriate tribute.
You can read an entire poem, or different people can take a turn reading various verses. Whatever feels right. A poem can be read as a eulogy or be part of a funeral program.
Yes, a funeral poem is about mourning and loss. However, as we have already discussed, there are benefits to adding a bit of humor and hope to a tribute for Grandmother.
The following poems are appropriate while still retaining a mischievous twinkle. They are focused on remembering the deceased with joy and highlighting the best times. Grandma would no doubt be smiling.
She Is Gone (He Is Gone)
by David Harkins
You can shed tears that she is gone
Or you can smile because she has lived
You can close your eyes and pray that she will come back
Or you can open your eyes and see all that she has left
Your heart can be empty because you can’t see her
Or you can be full of the love that you shared
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday
You can remember her and only that she is gone
Or you can cherish her memory and let it live on
You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back
Or you can do what she would want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on.
All Is Well
by Henry Scott-Holland
Death is nothing at all, I have only slipped into the next room
I am I and you are you
Whatever we were to each other, that we are still.
Call me by my old familiar name,
Speak to me in the easy way which you always used
Put no difference in your tone,
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow
Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me.
Let my name be ever the household word that it always was,
Let it be spoken without effect, without the trace of shadow on it.
Life means all that it ever meant.
It is the same as it ever was, there is unbroken continuity.
Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight?
I am waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near,
Just around the corner.
All is well.
Books to Share with Young Children about Their Grandmother
Book 1: The Invisible String
- Karst, Patrice (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
Book 2: Tom’s Great-Grandma Eileen: Helping Children to Understand Death, Grief and Loss
- Melton, Kate (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
Book 3: The Memory Book: A Grief Journal for Children and Families
- Hardcover Book
- Rowland, Joanna (Author)
Book 4: I Will Miss You: A Children’s Picture Book to Help Kids Cope with the Death of a Loved One
- King, Ben (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I write a good tribute to my grandmother?
To write a good tribute to your grandmother, reflect on her qualities, memories, and impact on your life, and then express your feelings and gratitude from the heart.
2. How do you write a simple tribute?
Writing a simple tribute involves expressing your appreciation and feelings for the person you’re honoring in a straightforward and heartfelt manner. Here’s a simple structure to follow:
1. Introduction: Begin with a warm greeting or acknowledgment of the person you’re paying tribute to. For example, “To my beloved grandmother” or “In memory of my dear friend.”
2. Express Your Appreciation: Share specific qualities, memories, or actions that you admire or cherish about the person. Be sincere and specific, such as mentioning their kindness, wisdom, or the impact they had on your life.
3. Share Personal Anecdotes: Share a personal story or two that highlights the person’s character or the moments that meant the most to you. This helps make the tribute more relatable and memorable.
4. Express Your Feelings: Share your emotions and thoughts about the person. You can say how much you miss them, how grateful you are for their presence in your life, or any other sentiment that feels genuine.
5. Conclusion: Wrap up your tribute with a final message or sentiment. This could be a heartfelt thank you, a wish for their well-being, or a statement about their lasting impact.
6. Signature: Sign your tribute with your name or your relationship to the person (e.g., “With love, [Your Name]” or “Your grandson, [Your Name]”).
Remember that the key to a simple tribute is authenticity. Write from the heart, and don’t worry too much about elaborate language or structure. The most important thing is to convey your genuine feelings and appreciation.
3. What do you write in a eulogy for your grandma?
Writing a eulogy for your grandma is a heartfelt and meaningful way to honor her life and share memories with others who loved her. A general guideline for what to include in a eulogy is as follows:
An introduction, personal stories and memories, her qualities and achievements, family and relationships, her passions and interests, values and beliefs, overcoming challenges, gratitude and reflection, and a heartfelt conclusion and/or closing thoughts to share with your audience.
4. What is a good tribute message?
A good tribute message is one that conveys heartfelt appreciation, love, and respect for the person being honored. It should be sincere and reflect your genuine feelings – it’s okay to be honest about what your grieving process looks like. Here’s a simple yet meaningful tribute message:
“In loving memory of [Name], A life so beautifully lived, a heart so deeply loved. You touched our lives in ways words cannot express, Your kindness, wisdom, and warmth were truly a blessing.
We treasure the memories we shared, Your laughter, your guidance, and your unwavering care. Though you may be gone from our sight, Your spirit lives on in our hearts, shining bright.
You’ll be forever missed, forever loved, Your legacy of love and grace, we’ll always hold. Rest in peace, dear [Name], You’ve left an indelible mark on our souls.”
Feel free to personalize this message with specific details and memories that are unique to the person you’re paying tribute to. Again, the key is to express your emotions genuinely and from the heart.
Conclusion
The purpose of writing a tribute to a beloved grandma is to show love and appreciation for your grandmother’s life. It is not meant to be a biography. Don’t just talk about her chronological life. Rather, a proper tribute is a highlight of a lifetime of memories and emotions. Your friends and family knew Grandmother, but perhaps they didn’t know the Grandmother you knew.
Some in the audience may remember your amazing Grandmother as a friend, neighbor, or co-worker. You are remembering your precious Grandmother, which makes your tribute unique. Keep the tribute honest. If Grandma was grumpy at times, include that. It was a part of who she was. There is no need to exaggerate, provide her with qualities she didn’t have, or add characteristics that weren’t a part of her. Grandmother was great just the way she was.
Leona Small, Author
Leona Small is a freelance writer and former caregiver. She has experience working with people with Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias and has spent years working alongside both patients and caregivers in Hospice.
Additionally, she’s worked as a Professional Organizer helping people and families to purge, organize, manage, and prepare for various life transitions such as moving, downsizing, and the passing of loved ones. Her passions include writing about healthy aging, innovative resources to help older adults and caregivers, and traveling.