How to write the program for a funeral?

funeral program

A funeral program is more than a simple piece of paper—it is a heartfelt reflection of a loved one’s life and a guide for guests during a meaningful farewell. Writing a funeral program may feel overwhelming, especially while navigating grief, but having a clear structure and process can ease the task. This guide explains how to write a funeral program step by step, with tips on organization, wording, and personalization. With the help of trusted resources like The Funeral Program Site, you can create a beautiful, affordable program with confidence and compassion.

What Is a Funeral Program?

A funeral program is a printed or digital document distributed to attendees at a memorial, funeral, or celebration of life. It outlines the order of service and includes information about the deceased, participants in the service, and often personal tributes such as poems, photos, or scriptures. The funeral program serves as both a roadmap for the event and a lasting keepsake for friends and family.

Step-by-Step: How to Write a Funeral Program

Writing a funeral program involves both gathering content and designing the final layout. Below is a detailed guide to walk you through the process.

Step 1 – Gather Essential Information

Start with the Basics

Collect the full legal name of the deceased, date of birth, and date of passing. These are typically displayed on the front cover of the funeral program, often with a portrait or cherished photo.

Confirm the Service Details

Document the location, date, and time of the funeral or memorial service. Also, collect the name of the officiant, clergy, or speaker leading the service.

Step 2 – Plan the Order of Service

Typical Structure of a Funeral Program

The order of service is the core of a funeral program. This structured list allows attendees to follow along and understand what’s next. A standard layout might include:

  • Musical Prelude

  • Opening Prayer or Welcome

  • Scripture Reading or Poem

  • Musical Selection or Soloist Performance

  • Eulogy or Reflections

  • Final Words or Benediction

  • Recessional

Tips for Organizing the Order of Service

  1. Consult with the officiant or clergy to finalize the timeline.

  2. Include the names of speakers or readers next to each part.

  3. Be mindful of the ceremony’s tone—religious, non-religious, traditional, or casual.

  4. List hymn numbers or lyrics if music will be sung together.

Step 3 – Write the Obituary or Life Tribute

What to Include in an Obituary

The obituary or life tribute shares a short biography of the person being honored. It typically includes:

  • Birthplace and birthdate

  • Education, work, or military service

  • Family members (spouse, children, siblings, etc.)

  • Personal achievements and hobbies

  • Community or faith involvement

  • Legacy and personality traits

H4: Tips for Writing a Meaningful Tribute

  1. Write in a warm, respectful tone.

  2. Use specific anecdotes to illustrate the person’s character.

  3. Include uplifting and heartfelt language.

  4. Consult with other family members to ensure details are accurate.

Step 4 – Add Personal Touches

Poetry, Quotes, and Scriptures

Adding a poem, inspirational quote, or spiritual verse gives the funeral program an emotional dimension. Choose texts that reflect the beliefs, interests, or sentiments of the deceased.

Include Additional Photos

You can include a photo collage, childhood images, or candid shots from family events. Use a tasteful layout to avoid overcrowding the page.

Personal Messages from Family

Some families include a written message or letter from a close family member. This personal note can express love, gratitude, and memories.

Step 5 – List Acknowledgments and Participants

Honoring Those Who Helped

In the final section or on the back page, acknowledge:

  • Pallbearers or honorary pallbearers

  • Ushers or service coordinators

  • Musicians or soloists

  • Clergy or officiants

  • Medical staff, hospice workers, or spiritual advisors

H4: Thank You Message

A brief thank-you message to guests or supporters is a thoughtful touch. For example:
“Thank you for your support, love, and prayers during this time. Your kindness and presence mean more than words can express.”

H2: Step 6 – Choose a Funeral Program Layout

H3: Bifold vs. Trifold Formats

The most common types of funeral program layouts are:

  • Bifold (single fold, 4 panels): Simple and easy to print at home.

  • Trifold (2 folds, 6 panels): Offers more space for content and photos.

  • Graduated Fold: Tabbed style, ideal for longer tributes.

  • Gatefold: Opens from the center like a gate, visually striking.

  • Booklet Style: Ideal for large memorials or extended bios and photo galleries.

H4: Selecting the Right Design

Use a template that fits the tone and size of the ceremony. Websites like The Funeral Program Site offer hundreds of editable designs—from floral and scenic to religious and modern.

Step 7 – Edit and Proofread Carefully

Double-Check All Details

Typos, name errors, or incorrect dates can be painful in printed memorial materials. Always:

  • Confirm the spelling of names

  • Review the service timeline with clergy or hosts

  • Proofread for grammar, clarity, and tone

  • Print a sample copy before printing all

H4: Ask for a Second Set of Eyes

Have another family member or friend review the final version. Fresh eyes can catch small mistakes or make suggestions that improve the overall flow.

Helpful Tools and Services

Use a Funeral Program Template

Using a funeral program template makes the writing and formatting process easier and faster. Sites like The Funeral Program Site offer:

  • Downloadable Word, Pages, and Publisher templates

  • Instant delivery

  • Drag-and-drop photo integration

  • Custom font and color selection

H3: Professional Design Services

For those short on time or overwhelmed by the process, The Funeral Program Site also offers:

  • Custom design services starting at $49.95

  • Same-day printing and shipping

  • Matching keepsakes: bookmarks, prayer cards, and fans

  • Video tutorials and live customer support

Why a Well-Written Funeral Program Matters

A beautifully written and designed funeral program becomes more than an event guide—it becomes a legacy. Mourners often take these programs home, treasure them in photo albums, and refer back to them years later. They hold a tangible piece of the love shared and the memory honored.

Taking the time to write a detailed and heartfelt funeral program ensures that your loved one is remembered with grace, dignity, and beauty. Whether you choose to design it yourself or seek professional assistance, you’re creating something that captures a life lived and a love that never ends.

Final Thoughts

Writing a funeral program is one of the most personal and powerful ways to honor a loved one. With careful planning, kind words, and meaningful details, you can create a tribute that guides guests through the ceremony while providing lasting comfort to family and friends.

Whether you need a simple template or a custom-designed keepsake, The Funeral Program Site has everything you need to create a funeral program that is affordable, professional, and filled with love. Their downloadable designs and support resources make it easier than ever to write a program that truly celebrates the life and memory of someone special.

Back to blog

Funeral Program Templates Collection by The Funeral Program Site

The Funeral Program Site's funeral program templates collection offers a wide range of beautifully crafted designs to help families create personalized and memorable tributes for their loved ones. This collection features an extensive variety of templates that cater to different styles and preferences, from traditional and religious layouts to modern and minimalist designs. Each template is thoughtfully designed to provide a polished and professional look, with sections for the order of service, obituary, photos, and personal messages. The templates are fully customizable, allowing families to easily add their own content, adjust colors and fonts, and incorporate meaningful elements that reflect the personality and life of the deceased. Available in formats compatible with popular software like Microsoft Word, Adobe InDesign, and Canva, these templates offer flexibility and ease of use, ensuring that even those with minimal design experience can create a heartfelt and dignified funeral program.

View all

How To Save Time By Using Funeral Program Templates

Planning a funeral or memorial service can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with grief and time constraints. One of the most time-consuming aspects is creating a funeral program, which serves as both a schedule of the service and a keepsake for attendees. Instead of designing a program from scratch, using funeral program templates can save time, reduce stress, and ensure a professional-looking tribute.

One of the main advantages of using a funeral program template is that it eliminates the need for graphic design skills. Creating a funeral program from scratch requires knowledge of design software, formatting, and typography. A template provides a professional layout, so you do not have to worry about these technical aspects.

Templates also save hours of work. Manually designing a program can take several hours, especially if you are experimenting with fonts, images, and formatting. With a template, you can complete the program in minutes. In addition, templates ensure a polished and elegant look. They are created by professional designers, so the final product is balanced, visually appealing, and well-structured.

While funeral program templates provide a structured format, they are also easily customizable. You can change fonts and colors to match the personality of the deceased, insert meaningful quotes or scriptures, and add personal photos and tributes to make it unique. Once customized, templates can be downloaded and printed immediately, either at home, at a local print shop, or through an online printing service.

Using a template helps save time by providing a pre-formatted design, eliminating the need to worry about margins, spacing, or layout. It allows for easy customization, where you simply replace sample text with personal details. Once completed, the template can be printed immediately, ensuring quick turnaround. The structured layout also guarantees a polished and elegant appearance, preventing the stress of designing from scratch.

Are the templates compatible with both Mac and PC?

Yes, most funeral program templates are compatible with both Mac and PC, making them accessible regardless of the device you use. If you are using a Mac, programs like Pages, Microsoft Word for MAC or PDF viewer can edit templates specific to those software. For PC users, Microsoft Word and Publisher are the strong choice. Google Docs is free and requires no software needed and can be edited on both platforms online with simply an internet connection.

Shop Funeral Program Templates
  • Dove of Peace Funeral Program Template - The Funeral Program Site
1 5

Ready-Made DIY Templates

Dove of Peace Funeral Program Template

A beautiful faith based design with white dove of peace set against a soft blue sky makes a wonderful tribute to honor a loved one.

$39.95 USD
$39.95 USD
Sale Sold out
 More payment options
View full details

Funeral Program Templates You May Also Like

  • How many pages or fold styles are available (bifold, trifold, etc.)?

    Funeral program templates are available in various page layouts and fold styles to suit different preferences and levels of detail. The most common formats include bifold (single fold, creating four pages) and trifold (two folds, creating six panels), which are ideal for structured and organized content. Other options include gatefold, graduated (step) fold, and multi-page booklets, allowing for additional space to include photos, tributes, and extended obituaries.

  • How do I choose a design that reflects my loved one's personality?

    To choose a funeral program design that reflects your loved one’s personality, consider their style, interests, and values. A nature-inspired or floral theme may suit someone who loved the outdoors, while a classic, minimalist design might reflect a refined and elegant personality. Incorporating favorite colors, meaningful symbols, and personal photos ensures the program feels unique and truly honors their memory.

  • What color schemes are appropriate for a funeral program?

    Traditional black, white, and gray color schemes create a classic and elegant look for a funeral program. Soft pastels like lavender, light blue, or pale pink evoke peace and serenity, while deep tones such as navy blue, burgundy, or forest green add warmth and dignity. For a more uplifting tribute, earthy hues or warm golds can symbolize love, remembrance, and a celebration of life.

  • Is customer support available for template customization?

    Yes, we always offer customer support to assist with funeral program template customization. Support options may include live chat, email assistance, or step-by-step guides to help with editing, formatting, and printing. Some services also provide professional customization for those who need additional help personalizing their template.
Shop Funeral Program Templates

frequently asked questions about funeral program templates

Funeral Program Templates FAQs

A funeral program template is a pre-designed document that provides a structured layout for creating a funeral or memorial service program. It includes placeholders for essential elements such as the order of service, obituary, hymns, readings, tributes, and photos. Templates are designed to be easily customizable, allowing families to personalize the content to reflect the personality, values, and life of their loved one. By using a funeral program template, families can save time and effort while ensuring the final program is professional and meaningful. These templates can be printed for distribution at the service or shared digitally with friends and family.

Most templates are available in editable formats such as Microsoft Word (.docx), Publisher (.pub), Apple Pages, Google Docs and PDF for convenience and flexibility.

No, our templates are user-friendly and designed for anyone to use, even without prior design experience. They come with easy-to-follow instructions.

Yes, templates can be printed at home or through a professional printing service. They are designed to be compatible with standard paper sizes and printing options.

Funeral program templates are typically designed to be edited using popular software programs that most people are familiar with. Common software options include Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Adobe InDesign, and Canva. Microsoft Word and Google Docs are ideal for simple edits and basic design adjustments, while Adobe InDesign is better suited for more advanced customization and design flexibility. Canva is a user-friendly, web-based tool that offers drag-and-drop features, making it accessible even to those with minimal design experience. The choice of software depends on your comfort level, the complexity of the template, and the desired customization.

Yes, most funeral program templates are designed to be fully customizable, allowing you to add personal touches such as photos, quotes, poems, and personalized messages. You can replace placeholder images with your own photos of the deceased and adjust the text to include their name, dates, a brief biography, and tributes from family and friends. Many templates also offer dedicated sections for adding quotes, scriptures, or poems that hold special meaning. By incorporating these elements, you can create a unique and heartfelt tribute that reflects the life and legacy of your loved one.

Funeral program templates can be found on various websites, including specialized funeral stationery sites like The Funeral Program Site, as well as general template providers such as Etsy, Canva, and Template.net. Some templates are available for free, especially simple or basic designs, while more elaborate and professionally crafted templates may require a small fee. The paid templates often come with additional features such as multiple layout options, advanced customization capabilities, and high-quality design elements. It’s important to choose a template that best fits your needs, preferences, and the tone of the service.

Once you have customized your funeral program template, you can print it at home using a high-quality printer and good-quality paper or cardstock. For a more professional finish, consider using a local print shop or an online printing service. The choice of paper is important for creating a polished and professional-looking program. Matte or semi-gloss cardstock is a popular choice as it is sturdy and provides a refined appearance. The thickness of the paper should be between 80 lb to 100 lb for durability and to prevent bleed-through. If you are using a bifold or trifold layout, ensure the paper is easy to fold without cracking.

How To Use Funeral Program Templates: A Step-by-Step Guide

Home 4-Sided Graduated Funeral Program Template.

Funeral program templates are valuable tools that help families create meaningful, personalized programs for a funeral or memorial service. These templates provide a structured format, making it easy to include essential information like the order of service, obituary, tributes, and photos. By using a template, you can save time and effort while ensuring that the program looks polished and professional. Whether you are creating a simple single-page program or a detailed multipage booklet, funeral program templates offer flexibility, convenience, and a way to honor your loved one's memory. This guide will walk you through the steps of using a funeral program template, from selecting the right template to customizing and printing it.

Step 1: Choose the Right Funeral Program Template
The first step in using a funeral program template is to choose one that suits the tone, style, and theme of the service. There are several types of templates available, including single-page, bifold, trifold, and multipage layouts. When selecting a template, consider the following factors:

Format: Determine how much information you want to include. A bifold template is ideal for a simple service, while a multipage template is better for including more content, such as a detailed life story, multiple photos, and extended tributes.
Design Style: Look for a design that reflects the personality and preferences of the deceased. Templates range from traditional and religious to modern and minimalist styles. Consider color schemes, fonts, and imagery that resonate with the individual and the tone of the service.

Ease of Customization: Ensure the template is easy to edit and customize using software you are familiar with, such as Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or Adobe InDesign.

Many websites, such as The Funeral Program Site, offer a wide range of downloadable funeral program templates that are ready to use and customizable to fit your needs.

Step 2: Download and Open the Template
Once you have selected a template, download it to your computer. Most templates are available in formats compatible with popular software programs like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or Adobe InDesign. Here’s how to open the template in each program:

Microsoft Word: After downloading the template, locate the file on your computer and double-click it to open it in Word. If you have multiple versions of Word installed, make sure you use the most recent version to ensure full compatibility.
Google Docs: To use a template in Google Docs, upload the file to your Google Drive and then open it in Google Docs. You may need to adjust some formatting after importing the template.

Adobe InDesign: Open Adobe InDesign and select "File" > "Open" to open the template file. Adobe InDesign is ideal for more advanced users who want greater control over design elements.

Step 3: Customize the Template
Customization is the most important part of using a funeral program template. This is where you personalize the program to reflect the life and memory of the deceased. Here are the key elements to customize:

Cover Page: Replace the placeholder text with the name of the deceased, their birth and death dates, and a meaningful quote or scripture if desired. Add a high-quality photo of the deceased to the cover page to create a personal connection for attendees.

Order of Service: Edit this section to reflect the specific events planned for the service, such as hymns, prayers, readings, eulogies, and any special music or tributes. Use bullet points or numbered lists for clarity and easy reading.

Obituary or Life Story: Include a brief biography or obituary that highlights important aspects of the deceased's life, such as their achievements, family, career, and personal interests. This section provides attendees with a deeper understanding of the person being remembered.

Photos and Tributes: Replace any placeholder images with photos of the deceased that capture meaningful moments in their life. Add captions to provide context. You can also include written tributes from family members, friends, or colleagues to add a personal touch.

Acknowledgments and Thank You Notes: Use this section to express gratitude to those who have offered support during the difficult time. Mention individuals or organizations that provided help, flowers, or contributions to the service.

Design and Layout Adjustments: Depending on the software you're using, you can adjust the layout, fonts, colors, and other design elements to suit your preferences. Make sure that the text is clear and easy to read, and that the overall design is balanced and aesthetically pleasing.

Step 4: Review and Proofread
Before finalizing the program, it is crucial to review and proofread all the content to ensure that there are no errors or omissions. Here are some tips for effective proofreading:

Check for Spelling and Grammar Errors: Carefully read through each section to catch any spelling or grammar mistakes.

Verify Dates and Names: Double-check that all names, dates, and details are accurate and spelled correctly.

Ensure Consistent Formatting: Make sure that fonts, font sizes, and formatting styles are consistent throughout the program. This will give the program a polished and professional appearance.

Get a Second Opinion: Ask a family member or friend to review the program for any errors or suggestions. A fresh set of eyes can often catch mistakes that you may have missed.

Step 5: Print or Share the Funeral Program
After customizing and reviewing the funeral program template, the next step is to print or share it. Here are some options:

Print at Home: If you have a high-quality printer, you can print the programs at home using good-quality paper or cardstock. This option is convenient and allows for quick adjustments if needed.

Professional Printing: For a more polished look, consider using a local print shop or an online printing service. They can provide options for different paper types, finishes (such as matte or gloss), and binding.

Digital Distribution: For those who cannot attend the service in person, consider sharing a digital version of the program via email or social media. You can also host the digital program on a dedicated memorial website, allowing friends and family to access it anytime.



Tips for Using Funeral Program Templates Effectively

Start Early: Begin working on the funeral program as soon as possible to give yourself enough time to customize, review, and make any necessary changes.

Keep It Simple: A simple design with clear text and minimal graphics is often the most effective and respectful choice. Avoid cluttering the program with too much information or overly elaborate designs.

Involve Family Members: Involve close family members in the customization process to ensure that the program reflects the collective memories and sentiments of those who knew the deceased best.

Focus on Quality: Use high-quality images and paper to ensure that the final program is a fitting tribute that attendees will want to keep as a memento.

Have a Backup Plan: If you are printing the programs yourself, print a few extra copies to account for any unexpected attendees or printing errors.

Conclusion: A Thoughtful and Practical Way to Honor a Loved One

Using a funeral program template is a thoughtful and practical way to create a meaningful tribute for a loved one. With the convenience and flexibility of templates, families can easily customize the program to reflect the deceased's personality, life, and legacy. By following these steps and using a user-friendly program like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or Adobe InDesign, Apple Pages, you can create a beautiful, professional-looking funeral program that serves as a cherished keepsake for all who attend.

Simple Funeral Program Templates

Simple funeral program templates at The Funeral Program Site offer a perfect blend of elegance and ease of use, making them an ideal choice for families seeking a meaningful yet straightforward way to honor their loved one. These templates are thoughtfully designed to provide a clean and organized layout, ensuring that essential elements like the order of service, obituary, and personal tributes are presented with clarity and respect. With user-friendly customization options, families can easily personalize the templates with photos, quotes, and specific details that reflect the personality and life of the deceased. The simplicity of these templates does not compromise on quality, allowing for a dignified and polished final program that serves as a cherished keepsake for all attendees.

View all

What are the most popular funeral program templates

The most popular funeral program templates include bifold designs, which offer a classic four-page layout that is easy to read and customize. Trifold templates are also widely used, providing six panels for additional space to include photos, tributes, and service details. For those needing more room, graduated (step) fold templates and multi-page booklets are ideal, allowing for a more detailed and visually appealing presentation of a loved one’s life.

Shop Funeral Program Templates

Funeral Program Templates Featured Video

What Type of Funeral Program Templates Are Available?