Free Funeral Program Template

Overview

Funeral programs, also called orders of service or memorial bulletins, provide attendees with information about the deceased and the service itself. Creating a thoughtful program honors your loved one while helping guests follow along with the memorial service. This guide explains what to include in funeral programs and provides formatting guidelines for creating your own. Many families save hundreds of dollars by designing and printing programs themselves rather than purchasing through funeral homes.

What to Include in a Funeral Program

Cover Page

  • Full name of deceased
  • Birth date and death date
  • Photo (optional but recommended)
  • Service location and date
  • Meaningful quote, verse, or poem

Order of Service

  • Prelude music
  • Opening remarks
  • Readings or scriptures
  • Musical selections with song titles
  • Eulogies (list speakers)
  • Closing remarks
  • Reception information (if applicable)

Obituary or Life Story

  • Brief biography (150-300 words)
  • Education and career highlights
  • Family information (survivors)
  • Hobbies, interests, and accomplishments
  • Charitable causes or organizations

Additional Elements

  • Additional photos throughout
  • Poems, prayers, or meaningful verses
  • Thank you message to attendees
  • Donation information in lieu of flowers
  • Pallbearers and honorary pallbearers

Formatting Tips

Printing Options

Home Printing

Cost: $10-30 for 50 programs

Pros: Most affordable, immediate availability, complete control

Cons: Limited paper options, printer quality varies

Professional Printing

Cost: $50-150 for 50 programs

Pros: High quality, premium paper options, folding/finishing

Cons: More expensive, may require 24-48 hours

Software Options

Microsoft Word: Built-in templates and easy formatting

Google Docs: Free, collaborative editing, cloud storage

Canva: Free design tool with funeral program templates

Adobe InDesign: Professional design software (advanced users)

Related Resources

Obituary Template

Writing guide and obituary templates.

Eulogy Template

Guide to writing and delivering eulogies.

Find Funeral Homes

Connect with funeral planning services.