Editable template
Online Obituary Program Template
Need an obituary program template? Choose this dignified layout — it combines the full life story with the order of service. Add a portrait, obituary text, and service details, then export a print-ready PDF.
Customize online, preview carefully, then export a print-ready PDF.
What to include in an obituary program
- 1
Portrait photo
A clear, meaningful portrait centered at the top of the program — the visual anchor for all attendees.
- 2
Full name and dates
The person's full name, date of birth, and date of passing — prominently displayed beneath the photo.
- 3
Written obituary or life story
The heart of the program: a written tribute covering the person's life, family, work, passions, and how they will be remembered.
- 4
Survived by listing
The names of surviving family members — spouse, children, grandchildren, siblings — typically listed after the main obituary text.
- 5
Order of service
The complete sequence of the funeral or memorial — music, scripture, eulogies, committal, and closing.
- 6
Officiant and speakers
The names of the officiating clergy, eulogy speakers, and any readers or musicians participating in the service.
- 7
Service location and reception
Where the funeral is held, what follows — graveside, reception, reception venue — and any relevant directions or notes.
Online Obituary Program Template
Customize online, preview carefully, then export a print-ready PDF.
What you can edit
- Name
- Portrait photo
- Obituary text
- Birth & passing dates
- Survived by
- Order of service
- Officiant
- Service location
What is an obituary program?
An obituary program is a funeral bulletin that includes both the full written obituary — the life story — and the complete order of service for the memorial or funeral. It serves as both a guide for the service and a printed keepsake for the family to take home. This combined format is ideal when the family wants attendees to have the full life story alongside the service details in one document.
How long should an obituary be in a funeral program?
There is no fixed length. A brief obituary might be three to five paragraphs: birth and family background, significant life events, the person's character and passions, and a closing line about how they will be remembered. A longer tribute can include more detail, especially for community leaders or those with a long, rich life. The text area in the template is fully editable — it holds as much content as you provide.
Related obituary program templates
Click any template to open it in the editor — customize, then export a print-ready PDF.
How to customize this obituary program
- 1Choose an obituary program layout. Pick a dignified design that gives ample space for both the obituary text and the order of service.
- 2Add the portrait and name details. Upload a portrait photo, then enter the person's full name, birth date, and date of passing.
- 3Write or paste the obituary text. Type or paste the full obituary — life story, survived by, and any closing line — into the text area.
- 4Fill in the order of service. Add the complete sequence of the funeral — prelude, scripture, eulogies, hymns, committal, and recession.
- 5Preview carefully, then export. Read every detail — especially all names, dates, and the obituary text — before downloading your print-ready PDF.
Frequently asked questions
What is an obituary program?+
An obituary program is a funeral bulletin that combines the full written obituary with the order of service. It serves as both a guide for the service and a keepsake for the family.
How long can the obituary text be?+
The text area is fully editable — type or paste as much content as you need. The template adapts to your content. A typical obituary runs three to seven paragraphs in a standard program.
Can I include a list of surviving family members?+
Yes. There is a dedicated 'Survived by' section in most obituary program templates. List surviving family members — spouse, children, grandchildren, siblings — in the order and format your family prefers.
What size does an obituary program print at?+
Most obituary programs are Letter size (8.5×11 in), printed flat or folded in half to create a four-panel booklet that includes the cover, obituary, order of service, and back panel.
Can I share a digital version of the program?+
Yes. Export the PDF and share it by email, text message, or on a memorial website so family members who cannot attend still have access to the program.
Is this affiliated with Microsoft?+
No. Publish Media Software is independent and not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Microsoft Corporation. 'Microsoft Publisher' is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.