A funeral program, also called a memorial program or funeral bulletin, is a printed keepsake that highlights a loved one’s life and outlines the order of events during a funeral or memorial service. It typically features the deceased’s name, photo, birth and death dates, an obituary, and personal touches like quotes or poems, serving as a cherished tribute for attendees.

Losing a loved one is challenging, and planning a meaningful memorial can feel daunting. A funeral program is a vital element that offers comfort, guiding attendees through the service while honoring the deceased. This keepsake not only outlines the ceremony but also becomes a lasting tribute cherished by family and friends.

What Is a Funeral Program?

A funeral program, often known as a memorial program or funeral brochure, is a printed document detailing the sequence of a funeral or memorial service. It includes personal elements like photos, quotes, or stories, making it a unique reflection of the deceased’s life, whether traditional, religious, or modern.

Why Are Funeral Programs Important?

• Guides the Service: Provides a clear structure, helping guests follow readings, hymns, or eulogies.
• Personalizes the Tribute: Shares stories, images, and quotes to celebrate the individual’s legacy.
• Creates a Keepsake: Offers a tangible memento for loved ones to treasure.

Key Elements of a Funeral Program

Every funeral program is unique, but most include these core components:

1. Cover Page:
   • Deceased’s name and dates
   • Photo or collage
   • Title like “In Loving Memory”
   • Inspirational quote or verse
2. Order of Service:
   • Welcome message
   • Music or hymns with lyrics
   • Readings (scripture, poems, or literature)
   • Eulogy or tributes
   • Closing remarks and reception details
3. Back Page:
   • Acknowledgments for support
   • Burial or reception information
   • Personalized quotes or messages

Funeral Program Examples

Explore these formats for inspiration:

Traditional Religious Program

• Prelude Music
• Processional
• Opening Prayer
• Scripture Reading
• Eulogy
• Hymn
• Musical Tribute
• Closing Prayer
• Burial Procession

Modern Celebration of Life

• Welcome
• Photo/Video Montage
• Open Mic Tributes
• Live Music
• Poem Reading
• Closing Remarks
• Reception

Designing a Funeral Program

Create a program that reflects the service’s tone with these tips:

• Paper Quality: Use durable 80-100 lb. paper or lightweight 65 lb. cardstock.
• Layout: Opt for a 4-page fold, single-page, or multi-page design.
• Fonts: Choose elegant, readable fonts—script for formal, sans-serif for modern.
• Photos: Include meaningful images from the deceased’s life.
• Colors: Select a palette tied to the deceased’s favorite hues or themes.

Writing a Eulogy for a Funeral Program

A eulogy captures the essence of the deceased. Follow these steps:

• Introduce: Share their name and your connection.
• Reflect: Highlight stories showcasing their character and impact.
• Conclude: Express gratitude for their life and legacy.

Funeral Program Wording Ideas

Set the tone with thoughtful wording:

• Cover Quotes:
  • “Forever in our hearts.”
  • “A life well-lived.”
  • “Rest in eternal peace.”
• Service Intro:
  • “Join us in honoring [Name]’s remarkable journey.”
  • “Celebrating the legacy of [Name] with love.”

Printing Funeral Programs

Choose from these printing options:

• Funeral Homes: Many offer in-house printing services.
• Local Printers: Ideal for DIY control over quality.
• Online Services: Use platforms with templates for fast delivery.

Personalizing Your Funeral Program

Make it special with these ideas:

• Quotes or Poems: Select pieces reflecting the deceased’s values.
• Photos: Add a collage of meaningful moments.
• Themes: Incorporate designs like florals or religious symbols.

A funeral program is a heartfelt tribute, encapsulating a loved one’s story and legacy. It guides the service while offering comfort to attendees, often including photos, an obituary, and the order of events. This keepsake preserves memories, allowing loved ones to reflect on shared moments.
Creating a memorial program can be a healing process, focusing on celebration rather than loss. Online tools simplify design, offering customizable templates for professional results without advanced skills. From traditional to modern, each program is a unique homage to a life well-lived.

What Should a Funeral Program Include?

A funeral program, also known as a memorial bulletin, provides essential details about the deceased and the service. Here are the key components:

1. Cover Design
   • Features the deceased’s photo, name, and dates, with customizable designs to reflect their personality.
2. Order of Service
   • Lists events like music, prayers, readings, and eulogies for attendees to follow.
3. Obituary
   • Summarizes the deceased’s life, achievements, and family. Try our free obituary generator or explore obituary examples for inspiration.
4. Poems, Quotes, or Scriptures
   • Includes meaningful verses or sayings tied to the deceased’s beliefs. See our funeral program resources.
5. Photos and Memories
   • Showcases images and stories contributed by loved ones, plus acknowledgments for support.

Funeral programs honor the deceased while providing a lasting keepsake for attendees.

Types of Funeral Programs

Funeral programs vary based on the service and family preferences. Common types include:

• Traditional: Includes name, photo, obituary, and order of service. See examples.
• Memorial Service: Focuses on tributes and readings for non-funeral gatherings.
• Celebration of Life: Highlights stories and photos to celebrate the deceased’s personality.
• Military: Honors service members with details of their military achievements.
• Religious: Incorporates prayers and hymns specific to faith traditions.

Funeral Programs

Funeral Program Sizes

Funeral programs come in various sizes to suit preferences:

• 8.5 x 11 inches: Standard letter size, ideal for detailed content.
• 5.5 x 8.5 inches: Half-letter, easy to handle and print.
• 4 x 6 inches: Compact for minimalist designs.
• Custom: Tailored sizes, but consider printing costs.

Choose a size that fits your content and design needs, consulting with a funeral director or printer for best results.

Tips for Creating a Funeral Program

Craft a meaningful funeral program with these tips:

• Collect Details: Gather the deceased’s name, dates, biography, and service details.
• Select a Format: Use templates or custom designs that reflect the deceased’s personality.
• Add Photos: Include images showcasing their life and achievements.
• Personalize: Incorporate quotes, poems, or a family message.
• Proofread: Ensure accuracy before printing.
• Print and Share: Distribute at the service or share digitally online.

Start Your Funeral Program Now

A funeral program is a meaningful way to honor a loved one. Whether traditional or modern, personalize it to reflect their life. Use our templates and tips to craft a tribute that resonates with attendees.
Our online funeral program software simplifies the process. Choose from hundreds of templates, add photos and text, and edit effortlessly with HTML5 technology that autosaves your work. Access your project from any device, anywhere.
Our templates include pre-designed covers, back pages for acknowledgments, and inner pages for service and obituary details. Save as a PDF for home printing or professional services. We offer layouts for military, religious, or relation-specific programs (e.g., for parents or grandparents).
Creating a funeral program online saves time and money. Customize pre-formatted designs to fit your needs, and download instantly. For help, contact us via Live Chat.