Memorial program template

What changes in a memorial program

Because the service often happens weeks after the death, a memorial program can carry more than a funeral program does. There is time to gather photos, so the back page works well as a collage. There are no pallbearers, so rename that box to “Ushers” or “Readers”, or remove it. If an urn or a photo stands at the front, the order of service might open with “Placing of the urn” or a moment of silence instead of a procession.

The cover usually says “A service of remembrance”, “In memory of” or “Celebrating the life of” in place of “Funeral service”. For a longer guide to the order and wording, see memorial service program.

Picking a design

The designs above are the quieter ones in our set: plain type, soft color and room for a large photo. Linen and Monochrome suit a non-religious service. Garden and Eucalyptus work in a church. Coastal and Mountain fit a gathering outdoors or a service where the ashes will be scattered. Any funeral program template works too, and every one is free to edit and print.

Questions families ask

What is the difference between a funeral program and a memorial program?

The layout is the same. A memorial program is for a service without the body present, so it usually leaves out pallbearers and the procession and may mention where the ashes or the burial are.

Should the program say they were cremated?

Only if the family wants it there. A line such as "Her ashes will be scattered at Lake Tahoe, as she wished" on the back page is common, and so is leaving it out.

Can I still call it a funeral program?

Yes. Use whatever your family calls the day. The heading and every section title can be changed in the editor.