Editable Funeral Program Templates — Print Memorial Pamphlets

Losing a loved one leaves an empty space that words can rarely fill. Yet, the right words — even brief ones — can help honor their memory and comfort those who grieve.
In memoriam phrases are often used in funeral programs, memorial service booklets, sympathy cards, and printed keepsakes. They serve as gentle reminders of a life well-lived, and as lasting tributes for family and friends.

In this guide, we’ll explore:

What “in memoriam” means
Common uses for in memoriam phrases
Tips for choosing or writing your own
Examples of short tributes for different relationships and themes
How to incorporate them into funeral programs and printed materials

What Does “In Memoriam” Mean?

The phrase in memoriam is Latin for “in memory of.”
It’s used to dedicate something — whether words, music, or a physical item — to someone who has passed away. While it’s common in funeral announcements and obituaries, it’s also seen on memorial plaques, tribute pages, or even at the start of books and artistic works.

Where to Use In Memoriam Phrases

You might include an in memoriam line:

On the cover of a funeral program — just below the person’s name and dates.
Inside the program — as a short dedication before the order of service.
On memorial cards or bookmarks given at the service.
In a printed guest book for guests to sign.
Within a slideshow or printed tribute video captions.

If you’re creating a printed funeral program, you can browse our
Free Funeral Program Template
to see how these lines can be incorporated seamlessly.

Tips for Choosing or Writing the Right Tribute

Keep it short and heartfelt — One or two lines is enough.
Reflect their personality — Think about what they valued most in life.
Consider your audience — Religious quotes may comfort some, while poetic or nature-inspired phrases may fit others better.
Make it timeless — Use wording that will feel meaningful years from now.
Test it aloud — Read the phrase to hear how it sounds and feels emotionally.

In Memoriam Examples by Theme

Below are some ideas to inspire your own words. Feel free to adapt them to suit your loved one’s memory.

Classic & Timeless

In loving memory of a beautiful soul.
Forever in our hearts.
Gone but never forgotten.
Loved beyond words, missed beyond measure.

Faith-Inspired

In God’s care, you rest above.
Safe in the arms of Jesus.
Until we meet again.
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

Nature & Serenity

May you rest in the gentle embrace of the earth.
Your light shines in every sunset.
Among the stars, your spirit soars.
As the ocean meets the shore, we will meet again.

Family-Focused

Beloved mother, grandmother, and friend.
The heart of our family.
Your love shaped us forever.
Our guiding light has gone home.

Friendship & Legacy

Your laughter lives on in our hearts.
A true friend to all who knew you.
Your kindness left a mark that time cannot erase.

How to Add In Memoriam Phrases to a Funeral Program

If you’re designing a memorial program, consider:

Cover placement: Just under the person’s name for a simple, elegant look.
Inside dedication page: A separate page or section for the tribute.
Photo captions: Place the phrase under a cherished image.
Back cover: As a final farewell or thank-you message.

For a variety of layouts and customizable designs, see our
Funeral Program Templates — each can be edited to add these tributes exactly where you want them.

Cultural and Religious Variations in In Memoriam Phrases

Memorial wording often reflects cultural heritage and religious beliefs. Choosing a phrase that aligns with your loved one’s background can make the tribute even more meaningful.

Christian Traditions

Resting in the arms of the Savior.
He has fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. (2 Timothy 4:7)
Absent from the body, present with the Lord.

Placement Tip: In Christian funeral programs, these phrases are often paired with hymns or scripture readings, sometimes on the inside cover or near the order of service.

Jewish Traditions

May his memory be a blessing. (Zichrono Livracha)
May her soul be bound up in the bond of eternal life.
Peace upon their resting place.

Placement Tip: Jewish memorial cards often feature Hebrew alongside English, maintaining cultural authenticity.

Catholic Phrases

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord.
May perpetual light shine upon them.
Into Your hands, O Lord, we commend their spirit.

Placement Tip: Catholic funeral programs often place these lines alongside prayers such as the Rosary or Hail Mary.

Secular & Non-Religious

Your story lives on in those you touched.
Loved for who you were, remembered for all you gave.
The world was better for having you in it.

Placement Tip: Non-religious tributes pair well with nature photography, poems, or quotes from literature.

Personalizing with Poetry and Quotes

Adding a short verse or literary excerpt can elevate a simple in memoriam line into something unique and deeply touching.

Short Poem Examples

Those we love don’t go away,
They walk beside us every day.
Softly the leaves of memory fall,
Gently we gather and treasure them all.

Literary & Famous Quotes

“What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” — Helen Keller
“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” — Thomas Campbell

If you want to blend a quote with a personalized phrase, you can follow this structure:
In loving memory — “Your love shaped us forever.” — Family & Friends.

Designing for Maximum Emotional Impact

When using in memoriam lines in printed materials, visual presentation matters as much as the words themselves.

Typography Choices

Serif fonts for a timeless, formal feel.
Script fonts for elegance and warmth.
Avoid overly stylized or hard-to-read fonts, especially for older guests.

Color Palettes

Soft neutrals (beige, cream, dove gray) convey peace.
Pastels (light blue, lavender, sage) create a gentle, comforting tone.
Monochrome (black and white) can add formality and simplicity.

Image Pairing

If the tribute is placed alongside a photo:

Use high-resolution, well-lit images.
Ensure the background isn’t distracting from the text.
Consider faded overlays to help the text stand out.

Examples by Relationship

For a Parent

Your love was our greatest gift.
Forever our guide and our strength.

For a Spouse or Partner

My heart will hold you until we meet again.
Together in life, together in eternity.

For a Child

Our little angel, loved beyond measure.
You filled our hearts in your short time here.

For a Friend

Your laughter will echo in our hearts.
A light that brightened every room you entered.

How to Add These to FuneralPamphlets.com Templates

If you’re using one of our editable designs:

Front Cover: Add an “In Loving Memory” line above or below the name.
Inside Left Page: Dedicate a small section for a short tribute or poem.
Back Cover: End with a farewell message and gratitude note.

You can explore our range of
Funeral Program Templates
to see designs where in memoriam lines naturally fit.

Final Thoughts

An in memoriam phrase is more than just a few words — it’s a way to carry someone’s legacy forward, even in their absence. Whether you choose a simple “Forever in our hearts” or a personalized poetic line, these tributes offer comfort and connection for years to come.

If you’re ready to create a beautiful memorial keepsake, explore our
Free Funeral Program Template
and customize it with the perfect in memoriam phrase.

FAQ

Q: How long should an in memoriam phrase be?
A: Usually one or two lines — short enough to be read easily while still expressing sentiment.

Q: Can I write my own tribute instead of using a common phrase?
A: Absolutely. Personal wording often feels more meaningful to family and friends.

Q: Should I include religious references?
A: Only if it aligns with the beliefs of the person being honored and the audience.

Q: Where should the tribute appear in a program?
A: Common spots include the cover, inside dedication page, or back cover.

In Memoriam Examples: Short Tributes & Phrases to Remember