Planning the service
Memorial content planning: readings, music, tributes and the order of service
A calm checklist for choosing who speaks, which readings and songs to include, what goes in the printed program and how the obituary, eulogy and photos fit together.
Scripture quotations are from the King James Version. Take what comforts you; you do not have to share this faith to receive support.
1. Start with what the family needs
Before choosing words or music, ask: what would they have wanted, and what will help the people grieving? Write down any wishes they shared, faith or cultural customs, and anything the family wants to avoid. Keep the list short. A simple service is still a complete service.
“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.”
Ecclesiastes 3:1 · KJV
One gentle next step: Write three words that describe the person. Let them guide every choice below.
2. Sketch the order of service
A common order is: welcome, opening prayer or words, a reading, the eulogy, music or a shared memory time, a closing reading or prayer, and directions to the burial or reception. Ask the officiant or funeral director how long you have and what is customary where the service is held.
“Let all things be done decently and in order.”
1 Corinthians 14:40 · KJV
One gentle next step: Use the Memorial Planner in a tribute project to list each part and who is responsible.
3. Choose who speaks and for how long
One eulogy of five to seven minutes is typical; several short tributes of two to three minutes each also work. Give each speaker a time and a focus—childhood, work, faith, grandchildren—so stories do not repeat. Offer a backup reader for anyone who may be too emotional.
“Bear ye one another's burdens.”
Galatians 6:2 · KJV
One gentle next step: Share the eulogy guide with each speaker so they have a simple outline.
4. Select readings and music
Pick one or two readings: a Scripture passage, a poem, or a favorite passage they loved. Choose music for arrival, a reflective moment and the closing. Check with the venue about live or recorded music and any rules for the service space.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
Psalm 23:1 · KJV
One gentle next step: Browse the poem library or celebration-of-life wording for readings you can use.
5. Prepare the written pieces
The obituary shares the life facts and service details. The printed program carries the order of service, readings, pallbearers and a thank-you. A short memorial card or memorial website can hold photos and memories. Use the same verified names and dates across every piece.
“A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches.”
Proverbs 22:1 · KJV
One gentle next step: Start the obituary, then reuse its approved details in the funeral program.
6. Gather photos and memories
Ask family to send 20–40 photos across the whole life, plus short written memories. Choose a few for the program and a slideshow or tribute video. Label each with names and approximate years so nothing is guessed.
“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you.”
Philippians 1:3 · KJV
One gentle next step: Add photos to a memorial site so guests can share their own memories too.
7. Close with care and thanks
End with a closing word, prayer or song and clear directions for what happens next. Thank the people who helped. After the service, keep the program, eulogy and guestbook messages together for the family.
“The Lord bless thee, and keep thee.”
Numbers 6:24 · KJV
One gentle next step: Send thank-you cards when you are ready; there is no deadline.
When you are ready
Begin with the free checklist. Paid organizer sections and exports depend on your plan; legal-document packages and in-app planning sharing are not available. You can use the tools at your own pace.
Further support
This is general educational and spiritual support, not legal, medical or mental-health advice. Confirm local requirements with qualified professionals. Obituary Suite cannot guarantee another person’s availability or that wishes will be legally enforceable.