Being asked to speak at a colleague’s farewell is hard because nobody trains for it. The good news is that people do not remember the wording; they remember that someone spoke warmly and briefly. These texts are built for that.
Short speeches (30–60 seconds)
- “I worked with Sergei for six years. He was always the first to step in when things were hard. Thank you for that. Our condolences to the family — we are with you.”
- “On behalf of the whole department — we have lost not only a colleague but a person who made us better. We will remember him.”
- “Anna was the heart of our team. She remembered everyone’s birthday and everyone’s coffee. We will not forget. Eternal memory.”
- “I came here as a newcomer, and it was Viktor who taught me how things work. I am grateful. Rest in peace.”
- “From the younger colleagues: thank you for the patience and for never making us feel small. We will pass it on.”
Longer speeches (2–3 minutes)
- “I knew [name] for twelve years. I remember the winter when the whole department stayed late to finish the report, and [name] brought hot tea for everyone without being asked. That is how [he/she] was — attentive without fuss. [He/She] taught me that doing your work well is also a way of caring for others. To the family: you have our deepest sympathy and our help, whenever you need it.”
- “[Name] came to us at twenty-three and left at forty-one. In that time [he/she] became the one everyone asked ‘how do I do this?’. Too early. We will carry on what [he/she] started.”
- “A veteran of our company, [name] worked here for thirty-five years. Three directors came and went; [name] stayed and taught each of them where the files were. We are grateful for the years and for the example.”
On behalf of the organisation
- “With deep sorrow we say goodbye to [name], an employee of [organisation] for [N] years. Management and the whole team express their condolences to the family. [His/Her] contribution will be remembered.”
At the memorial meal
- “Let us remember [name] with a quiet word. [He/She] was kind and fair to everyone. Eternal memory.”
- “I would like to remember one thing about [name]: [short story]. That is how I want to remember [him/her].”
Words to the family
- “[Name] spoke about you often. We are here if you need us. Please do not hesitate to call.”
What not to say
- The cause or circumstances of death.
- Judgements about managers or colleagues.
- “Time heals” and “we are all going there”.
- Jokes, unless the family welcomes them.
Related: the wording of a funeral notice, the wreath ribbon text and how much to chip in.
Frequently asked questions
What do you say at a colleague’s farewell?
Four sentences are enough: who you are and how you knew the person, one specific memory or quality, thanks, and words to the family. Example: “I worked with Sergei for six years. He was always the first to step in when things were hard. Thank you for that. Our condolences to the family — we are with you.”
How long should a funeral speech be?
One or two minutes, three at most. People stand during the farewell and a long speech is hard on the family and everyone else. If you have more to say, write the memory down and give it to the relatives or read it at the memorial meal.
Can I read from a sheet?
Yes. Emotions run high at a farewell and a sheet helps you keep the thread. Print in large type, one thought per line.
Is humour appropriate?
Only if the person was known for jokes and the family will welcome it. One warm story that brings a smile is fine; jokes about death or teasing are not. If in doubt, do not joke.
What should not be said?
The cause of death or circumstances, assessments of management or colleagues, old grievances, and phrases such as “we all go there” or “time heals”. Speak about the person and what they leave behind.
Who speaks on behalf of the organisation?
Usually the manager or head of department, then one or two people who worked with the deceased. Agree the order beforehand with the family or the person leading the ceremony, to avoid five identical speeches in a row.
Collecting help for a colleague’s family?
One link for the team, a clear total, receipts attached. Free, no sign-up.
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