What is a printable funeral program template?

A printable funeral program template is a pre-designed file that allows families to easily customize and print a memorial or celebration of life program. It typically includes sections for the order of service, obituary, photos, and personal messages.

Which type of funeral program layout should I choose?

Common layouts include bifold, trifold, and graduated programs. Bifold programs are simple and classic, while trifold or graduated styles provide more space for photos, poems, and tributes.

Can I edit a funeral program template in Microsoft Word?

Yes, all templates from FuneralPamphlets.com are fully editable in Microsoft Word. You can add text, change fonts and colors, insert images, and personalize your program before printing.

Editable Funeral Program Templates — Print Memorial Pamphlets

Planning a funeral program can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing the right words. The wording you include in a funeral or memorial program not only guides guests through the service but also serves as a lasting tribute to your loved one. A thoughtful program can capture their personality, honor their memory, and comfort family and friends.

In this guide, we’ll provide funeral program wording examples for different tones and styles—religious, non-religious, and celebration of life—plus show you how to use editable funeral program templates to create a beautiful, print-ready keepsake.

What Is Funeral Program Wording?

Funeral program wording refers to the text included in your printed funeral program or pamphlet. This can range from a simple order of service to a fully detailed memorial booklet with poems, scripture, and thank-you notes.

Typical sections of a funeral program include:

Front Cover: Name, photo, birth and death dates, and a short phrase (e.g., In Loving Memory of…).
Order of Service: A schedule of the ceremony including songs, readings, speeches, and closing remarks.
Obituary or Life Story: A short tribute highlighting your loved one’s life, achievements, and family.
Poems, Quotes, or Bible Verses: Personal touches that reflect their faith, personality, or values.
Acknowledgements/Thank-You Notes: A short message of gratitude to attendees and supporters.

If you’re not sure how to start, using a pre-designed template can make this process faster and more organized. FuneralPamphlets.com offers editable funeral program templates compatible with Microsoft Word, so you can insert your own text and photos with ease.

Sample Funeral Program Wording Examples

Here are a few funeral program wording examples you can adapt for your service:

1. Religious (Christian) Funeral Program Example:
In Loving Memory of
John Alexander Smith
January 10, 1948 – June 5, 2025

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” – Psalm 23

Order of Service:

Opening Prayer – Pastor Michael Green
Scripture Reading – Psalm 91
Musical Tribute – “Amazing Grace”
Eulogy – Sarah Smith, Daughter
Closing Prayer & Benediction

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” – Matthew 5:4

2. Celebration of Life Program Example:
Celebrating the Life of
Linda Marie Johnson
March 2, 1955 – August 14, 2025

“She lived with laughter, love, and grace.”

Order of Celebration:

Welcome & Opening Remarks
Photo Slideshow & Favorite Music
Friends & Family Tribute Stories
Closing Message of Gratitude

💡 Tip: For celebration of life services, include lighthearted anecdotes, favorite songs, and uplifting quotes. Download a Celebration of Life Template to get started quickly.

3. Non-Religious Funeral Program Example:
Honoring the Life of
David Allen Brooks
June 9, 1963 – April 30, 2025

“A life filled with kindness leaves a legacy of love.”

Service Schedule:

Welcome Message by Family
Sharing of Stories & Memories
Reading of Favorite Poem: The Dash by Linda Ellis
Closing Remarks & Invitation to Reception

Using clear, organized wording not only helps guests follow the service but also gives family and friends a keepsake they can treasure.

How to Personalize Your Funeral Program Wording

While templates make creating a funeral program easier, the wording and personalization are what make it meaningful. Here are some tips to customize your program text:

Start with the Cover Page
- Include a clear, high-quality photo of your loved one.
- Add their full name, birth and death dates, and a short phrase like In Loving Memory, Forever in Our Hearts, or Celebrating the Life of [Name].
- Optional: Include a symbol or small graphic (like a cross, dove, flower, or favorite hobby).
Write a Short Obituary or Life Story
- Keep it personal but concise. Highlight major milestones, relationships, achievements, and the qualities that made them special.
- Example:
  “Sarah Johnson was a loving mother, talented gardener, and devoted friend. She brought joy to every life she touched and leaves behind a legacy of kindness and laughter.”
Plan the Order of Service
- List events in sequence, including:
  - Welcome / Opening Remarks
  - Music or Hymns
  - Readings (scripture, poems, or personal messages)
  - Eulogy
  - Closing Prayer or Final Remarks
- This helps attendees follow the ceremony smoothly and provides structure to speakers and musicians.
Include Quotes, Poems, or Scripture
- Add a poem, inspirational quote, or Bible verse that reflects your loved one’s spirit.
- Examples:
  - “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” – Psalm 34:18
  - “Those we love never truly leave us. They live on in our hearts.”
Add Acknowledgements and Thank-You Notes
- Thank those who attended, supported, or sent condolences.
- Example:
  “The family of John Smith sincerely thanks you for your love, support, and prayers during this time of remembrance.”

Using Templates to Save Time & Stress

Designing a funeral program from scratch in Word can be frustrating if you’re grieving or short on time. This is where editable templates are invaluable:

Instant Download: Get your file immediately after purchase.
Easy Editing in Word: Simply replace placeholder text with your loved one’s details.
Professional Design: Clean, elegant layouts that print beautifully.
Unlimited Printing: Once edited, print as many copies as you need.

💡 Try this: Start with our Free Funeral Program Template if you want a simple design that can be downloaded and edited immediately.

If you want a unique or themed program, explore:

Custom Funeral Program Services

Not comfortable editing yourself? FuneralPamphlets.com also offers customization services.

Upload your photos, details, and any special instructions.
We handle the formatting and send your print-ready program, usually within 2 hours.
Revisions are included until the program looks perfect.

This option is ideal if:

You want a polished, professional design.
You need a fast turnaround without the stress of editing.
You want a customized memorial program that reflects your loved one’s life beautifully.

Best Practices for Funeral Program Wording

Keep it Readable – Use clear fonts and avoid over-cluttered pages.
Use Proper Grammar & Spelling – Double-check all names and dates.
Balance Text & Photos – A mix of words and images makes the program visually appealing.
Include Keepsake Elements – A favorite recipe, song lyric, or quote can make the program unforgettable.
Offer Digital Copies – Consider sharing a PDF with family who can’t attend in person.

Final Thoughts

Funeral programs are more than a schedule—they are lasting keepsakes of love and memory. By carefully choosing your wording, adding personal touches, and using editable templates, you can create a beautiful program that honors your loved one and comforts those who attend.

If you’re ready to start, explore our full collection of templates and download instantly:
Funeral Program Templates – Browse Now

Whether you edit it yourself or let us customize it for you, the right funeral program can help you celebrate a life well-lived.

Funeral Program Wording Examples & Templates