Funeral Program Cover Wording: Names, Dates, and Short Lines

Start with information guests can recognize

A cover has two jobs: identify whose life is being honored and set the tone for the service. Most covers need only a preferred name, a portrait, life dates if the family wishes, and the date or location of the gathering. Putting the entire ceremony schedule on the front usually makes both the photo and text harder to see.

Ask the family how the person preferred to be named. A familiar nickname may belong beside a formal name, but avoid guessing at titles or relationships. Check the exact spelling and date format against the final service information before printing.

Short heading examples

Use one heading, not several competing lines. These original examples can be adjusted to the family's voice.

• Remembering [Name]
• A life remembered with love
• Celebrating the life of [Name]
• With gratitude for the life of [Name]

Place words around the photograph

A portrait with a busy background needs a calm area for type. If words disappear over the image, move them onto a solid background or choose a layout with text above or below the photo. Keep a little breathing room around the name and avoid putting dates across a face.

Review the cover at the booklet's finished 5.5 × 8.5-inch size. The name should be easy to find immediately; supporting lines can be quieter. Print one proof because screen brightness can make pale text look clearer than it will on paper.