These order of service funeral examples are helpful to design a program that incorporates a variety of elements to honor the life and legacy of your loved one.
Creating a heartfelt and meaningful funeral order of service can be a comforting and cathartic process. It allows you to honor the life of your loved one by carefully selecting the elements that best represent their spirit and values.
If you’re searching for “order of service funeral examples,” you’re likely looking for guidance on creating a meaningful and organized ceremony that honors your loved one’s life. You may be wondering what elements to include, how to balance tradition with personalization, and how to ensure that the service reflects your loved one’s values and beliefs.
This guide is designed to help you through that process, with clear examples and templates that can be customized to meet your needs. By the end, you’ll have the tools for a memorable funeral order of service.
Let's get through this together.
What Is an Order of Service for a Funeral?
An order of service is a program or outline that details events during a funeral or memorial service, such as the processional, prayers, hymns, readings, eulogies, and the recessional. It is often printed and distributed to guests as they arrive at the funeral, like a guide, providing them with a clear understanding of how the service will proceed.
This document can also serve as a keepsake for attendees, allowing them to reflect on the service and the memories shared. It may include photos, personal messages, and even favorite quotes or scriptures that were meaningful to the person you’re celebrating.
This is why a well-structured order of service is important in a traditional memorial:
Provides structure: It ensures a smooth service flow, preventing awkward pauses or omissions. In many cultures and religions, some specific rites and sequences must be followed during a funeral, and the order of service helps to uphold these practices.
For example, in a Christian funeral, the service may include specific hymns, scripture readings, and prayers that are significant to the faith. Having these elements clearly outlined helps to preserve the solemnity and sanctity of the ceremony.
Informs attendees: Guests are made aware of the sequence of events, allowing them to follow along and participate meaningfully. They know what to expect, allowing them to participate fully and pay their respects in a manner that aligns with the wishes of the family and the traditions of the faith or culture.
Honors your loved one: Honors the life of the departed by highlighting their achievements, values, and impact on others. The order of service also allows for the inclusion of personal touches, such as special readings or eulogies, without disrupting the overall structure of the service.
Creates a sense of closure: Provides a sense of closure and comfort for grieving families and friends.
How To Write One and What To Include
No two services are alike, and there is no right or wrong way to structure your memorial service. Here are some elements of traditional services that you may want to consider incorporating to help structure the ceremony:
Processional: This is the beginning of the service and typically involves the entrance of the casket, family, and officiants. It sets the tone for the ceremony and is often accompanied by a solemn piece of music or a hymn.
Prayers or poems: An important part of many religious services, they can be placed at the beginning, middle, or end of the ceremony, depending on the traditions and the family's wishes. Consider including your loved one’s favorite prayer or poem.
Eulogies: This heartfelt speech honors the life of the loved one that you are saying goodbye to. It can be delivered by a close family member, friend, or the officiant. Eulogies typically include stories, memories, and reflections on their life and character. It becomes an opportunity for personal tributes and shared memories.
Readings: Readings can include religious verses, poems, or passages from literature that were meaningful to your loved one or their family. These readings could reflect their beliefs and values. Common readings might come from religious texts, such as the Bible, or from poets like Robert Frost or Maya Angelou.
Hymns or secular songs: Hymns are often chosen for religious ceremonies, while secular songs might be selected for a non-religious service. Choose pieces that were meaningful to them or that resonate with the themes of remembrance and peace. It’s important to ensure that the music selection aligns with the overall tone of the service.
Let’s look at some of these elements in detail.
The role of music
Music is an important part of a funeral service, helping to express emotions that words alone cannot. For religious services, traditional hymns like "Amazing Grace" or "The Lord is My Shepherd" are often appropriate.
For secular services, you might choose songs that were favorites of the departed, or that carry a message of comfort and remembrance, such as "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" or "What a Wonderful World."
Readings
Readings provide a moment of reflection and can bring comfort to those attending the service. You might select passages from the Bible, such as Psalm 23, or from other religious texts that were significant to them.
Poems like "Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep" by Mary Elizabeth Frye or "Remember Me" by Christina Rossetti are also popular choices. Family tributes can be included here as well, allowing loved ones to share personal reflections, stories, or quotes.
Eulogy: Tips for a meaningful tribute
Writing a eulogy can be daunting, but focusing on the following tips can help:
Be personal: Share stories and memories that highlight their personality, values, and achievements.
Keep it concise: Aim for about 5 to 10 minutes in length. This allows you to deliver a meaningful tribute without overwhelming yourself or the audience.
Balance emotions: It’s okay to mix humor with solemnity, as long as it’s done respectfully. Light-hearted memories can offer comfort and a fuller picture of the person’s life.
Practice: Rehearse the eulogy multiple times to feel more comfortable delivering it. Consider bringing a printed copy to the podium to refer to if needed.
Suggestions for including personal touches
Adding personal touches to the order of service can make the ceremony more meaningful and reflective of your loved one's life. Here are some ideas:
Photos: Include a collage of photos in the printed program or as part of a slideshow during the service.
Quotes or sayings: Incorporate favorite quotes, sayings, or even jokes that they were known for.
Mementos: Display personal items such as awards, hobbies, or memorabilia at the service.
Unique rituals: Consider including rituals that were important to the person, such as lighting candles, planting a tree, or a moment of silence.
5 Order of Service Funeral Examples
Example 1: Church service with readings, hymns, and a eulogy
A traditional church service is one of the most common types of funeral services, often held in a religious setting such as a chapel or church. This service typically follows a structured format, honoring your loved one while adhering to the rituals and traditions of the faith.
An example to follow:
Processional: The service begins with a processional where the casket is brought into the church, often accompanied by a hymn or instrumental music. Family members and close friends follow the casket into the church.
Welcome and opening prayer: The officiant, typically a pastor or priest, greets the congregation and offers an opening prayer. This sets the spiritual tone for the service.
Scripture readings: Selected passages from the Bible are read, often including comforting verses such as Psalm 23 ("The Lord is my shepherd...") or John 14:1-3 ("Let not your heart be troubled...").
Hymns: Hymns are sung by the congregation. Traditional hymns such as "Amazing Grace," "How Great Thou Art," or "The Old Rugged Cross" are commonly chosen for their comforting and uplifting messages.
Eulogy: A family member or close friend delivers a eulogy, sharing memories, stories, and reflections on the life of the departed. This is a moment to celebrate the person’s life and legacy, offering both solace and inspiration to those in attendance.
Additional readings or reflections: These may be included at this point. This can also be a time for more personal tributes from family and friends.
Pastoral message: The officiant delivers a short sermon or message, offering words of comfort and hope based on religious teachings. This part often focuses on the spiritual significance of death and the afterlife.
Closing prayer: The service concludes with a final prayer, asking for peace and strength for the family and friends of the deceased.
Recessional: The casket is carried out of the church, followed by the family and congregation. A closing hymn or instrumental piece is typically played during the recessional.
Example 2: Memorial service with secular readings and family tributes
This type of service is ideal for families who wish to focus on personal memories, meaningful reflections, and the impact the person had on those around them without a specific religious framework.
An order of service example:
Welcome and opening remarks: The service begins with a welcome by the officiant or a family member, who sets the tone for the ceremony and expresses gratitude for the presence of friends and family.
Music: A meaningful song or instrumental piece is played to set a reflective mood. This could be their favorite song or something that resonates with the themes of remembrance and love.
Secular readings: Selected readings are shared. These might include favorite poems, excerpts from literature, or quotes that reflect the deceased’s personality, values, or life philosophy. Examples include "Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep" by Mary Elizabeth Frye or a passage from a favorite book.
Family tributes: Family members are invited to share personal stories, memories, or reflections. This is a time for emotional and heartfelt tributes that celebrate the life and legacy of the deceased. Each tribute can be brief, allowing multiple people to participate.
Montage: A video montage of photos and home videos, accompanied by a favorite song or a playlist of their favorite music, can be played. This visual tribute offers a touching way to reflect on the life of the loved one through images and music that were meaningful to them.
Additional readings or personal messages: This is another opportunity for those who were particularly close to the departed to share their thoughts and memories.
Moment of silence: The service may include a moment of silence, allowing everyone present to reflect on their own memories and feelings. This can be a powerful way to connect everyone in shared remembrance.
Closing remarks: The officiant or a family member provides closing remarks, summarizing the themes of the service and offering words of comfort and thanks. This can include an invitation to continue sharing memories at a reception or gathering afterward.
Final song or music: The service concludes with a final piece of music, which can be another of their favorite songs or something that leaves the attendees with a sense of peace and closure.
Example 3: Military funeral with honors and personalized tributes
A military funeral is a solemn and dignified ceremony that honors the service and sacrifice of a veteran or active-duty military member. It typically includes specific military traditions, such as the presentation of the flag, a rifle salute, and the playing of "Taps," along with personalized tributes from family and friends.
An order of service example:
Processional: The service begins with a processional led by military personnel. The casket is draped with the American flag and is brought into the venue, followed by family members. It may be accompanied by a military band playing a hymn or an instrumental version of a patriotic song.
Invocation or opening prayer: A chaplain or officiant offers an opening prayer or invocation, asking for comfort and peace for the grieving family and friends. This prayer may also express gratitude for their service and sacrifice.
Military honors: A folded American flag is presented to the next of kin as a symbol of gratitude from the nation for their service. A rifle squad fires a three-volley salute, a traditional military honor that signifies respect for the fallen. A bugler plays "Taps," a haunting and solemn melody that is traditionally played at military funerals.
Eulogy: A family member, friend, or fellow service member delivers a eulogy that reflects on the life and character of the loved one, highlighting their military service, accomplishments, and personal qualities. The eulogy may include stories from their time in the service and reflections on their dedication and bravery.
Readings: Selected readings may include patriotic or religious texts, poems, or quotes that honor the service and sacrifice of the deceased. These readings can be delivered by family members, friends, or fellow veterans. Popular choices might include passages from the Bible, such as John 15:13 ("Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends"), or poems like "The Soldier" by Rupert Brooke.
Personalized tributes: Family and friends are invited to share personal tributes, stories, and memories. These tributes allow for a more intimate and personal reflection on the deceased’s life outside of their military service, celebrating their roles as a spouse, parent, or friend.
Closing remarks: The officiant or chaplain provides closing remarks, offering words of comfort and summarizing the service. The remarks may include a final prayer or blessing for the deceased and their family.
Recessional: The service concludes with a recessional, during which the casket is escorted out of the venue by military personnel. It may be accompanied by a military band or recorded music, such as "The Star-Spangled Banner" or another patriotic song.
Graveside service (optional): If the service includes a burial, a graveside service may follow. This part of the ceremony often includes additional military honors, such as the lowering of the casket and the final salute.
Example 4: Green funeral with eco-friendly practices
A green funeral is an environmentally conscious approach that focuses on reducing the environmental impact of traditional funeral practices. This type of service is becoming increasingly popular among those who are committed to sustainability and wish to leave a minimal ecological footprint. Green funerals often avoid embalming, use biodegradable materials, and may include natural burial practices.
An order of service example:
Processional: The service begins with a simple processional, where the body or ashes are brought to the service site, often in a biodegradable casket or urn. It may take place in a natural setting, such as a woodland or meadow, and can be accompanied by acoustic music or the natural sounds of the environment.
Welcome and opening remarks: The officiant, family member, or friend opens the service with welcome and brief remarks about the significance of the green funeral. This may include a reflection on the person's commitment to environmental stewardship and their desire for a sustainable farewell.
Eco-friendly readings: Readings may focus on themes of nature, sustainability, and the cycle of life. Selections might include poetry, literature, or quotes that emphasize the connection between humans and the natural world.
Poems like "When I Am Among the Trees" by Mary Oliver or excerpts from environmental writers such as Rachel Carson might be included.
Personal tributes: Family members and friends are invited to share stories and memories, focusing on the loved ones' love for nature and commitment to protecting the environment. These personal tributes can highlight how their values influenced the lives of those around them.
Music: Music selections for a green funeral often include acoustic performances, folk songs, or other music that reflects their connection to nature. Live performances using natural instruments or recordings of favorite songs with environmental themes can be particularly meaningful.
Green burial or ash scattering ceremony: If the service includes a burial, it typically takes place in a green burial ground where the body is interred without a vault and in a biodegradable casket or shroud.
Alternatively, if the service involves cremation, there may be a ceremony for scattering the ashes in a meaningful natural location, such as a forest, garden, or ocean. This part of the service may include a moment of silence or a communal activity like planting a tree or scattering wildflower seeds.
Closing remarks: The officiant concludes the service with closing remarks, offering final words of comfort and a reminder of the deceased’s enduring legacy through the natural world. The closing might include a final blessing or wish for peace and renewal.
Recessional: The service ends with a recessional, where attendees may be invited to participate in a communal eco-friendly activity, such as placing flowers or leaves on the grave, or simply reflecting in silence as they leave the service area.
Example 5: Simple cremation memorial with a short service and close family
This is a more intimate and modest type of service, focusing on a short, heartfelt ceremony attended by close family members. It is ideal for those who prefer a minimalistic, private gathering.
An order of service example:
Welcome and opening remarks: The service begins with a brief welcome by a family member or officiant, acknowledging the close-knit group of attendees and setting a tone of reflection and remembrance.
Music: A single piece of music is played, often a favorite song of the person or something that holds special meaning for the family. This could be an acoustic or instrumental piece that provides a serene and reflective atmosphere.
Reading or poem: A short reading or poem is shared, chosen for its relevance to their life or the sentiments of the family. This could be a passage from a favorite book, a meaningful poem, or a simple verse that brings comfort.
Eulogy: A family member or close friend delivers a brief eulogy, sharing personal memories and reflections on the life lived. Given the intimate nature of the gathering, other family members may also offer short, impromptu tributes, sharing stories or expressing their feelings.
Moment of silence: A moment of silence is observed, allowing everyone present to reflect privately on their memories and say their personal goodbyes.
Closing remarks: The officiant or a family member gives closing remarks, thanking those in attendance and offering final words of comfort. This may include a short prayer or blessing, depending on the family’s wishes.
Ash scattering or placement of the urn (optional): The service may conclude with a simple ash scattering ceremony or the placement of the urn in a chosen location, such as a family plot, garden, or other meaningful site. Family members may participate by taking turns scattering the ashes or placing the urn, adding a personal touch to the farewell.
Final music or reflection: The service closes with a final piece of music or a moment of quiet reflection. This could be another favorite song or a peaceful instrumental that helps bring the service to a gentle conclusion.
5 Funeral Order of Service Templates
These are some Canva templates for creating an order of service for a funeral, each suited for different types of ceremonies.
1. Simple and traditional template for church or chapel service
This template is ideal for traditional church or chapel services. It features a clean, elegant design with a classic black and white color scheme, making it suitable for a formal, religious setting. The layout includes space for hymns, readings, and a eulogy, with a schedule that guides attendees through the service.
2. Memorial service template for secular or non-religious services
This template is designed for secular or non-religious memorial services. It features a modern, floral design that brings a sense of warmth and elegance. The template includes sections for personal tributes, favorite quotes, and a detailed order of service, making it a good fit for a personalized, non-traditional ceremony.
Example 3: Military funeral with honors and personalized tributes
This program can be customized to fit personalized tributes, speeches, honors, and a memorial video for someone who served in the military and armed forces. The colors and elements are easily exchangeable for ones to suit your loved one’s life and legacy.
This program has all the essential elements for a funeral service that can include a cremation. It’s primarily focused on text and clean elements that draw attention to the key events, and the colors can easily be tailored to suit your preferences.
Example 5: Simple cremation memorial with a short service and close family
This neat and simple funeral order of service example is ideal for a short service that doesn’t have too many components. You can focus on keeping the program straightforward and simplified to honor your loved one’s life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should the funeral order of service be?
The length of a funeral service will vary depending on the type of ceremony and the preferences of the family. Generally, a traditional funeral service lastsbetween 30 minutes to an hour. Religious services might be longer, especially if they include additional rituals or sacraments.
Memorial services and secular ceremonies can be shorter or longer, depending on the number of speakers, readings, and music selections. The key is to balance honoring your loved one with the attention span and comfort of the attendees.
Do you need to follow a strict order for religious services?
Religious services often have a traditional order that is followed to maintain the sanctity and structure of the ceremony.For example, Christian funerals typically include an opening prayer, hymns, scripture readings, a sermon, and a eulogy in a specific order.
However, many officiants are open to some degree of personalization, such as adding specific readings or music that is meaningful to the person. It’s best to discuss any desired changes with the officiant to ensure that they align with religious practices.
What should you leave out of a service program?
When creating a service program, it’s important to focus on elements that contribute to the solemnity and respect of the occasion.
While personal tributes are essential, avoid including content that might be too controversial or that could overshadow the memorial nature of the service. Instead of a detailed biography, focus on key highlights of their life that celebrate their character and achievements.
Let Meadow Help You Create the Perfect Memorial
We hope these order of service funeral examples are helpful to you during this time. At Meadow, we understand that planning a funeral is adeeply personal and often challenging process.
We are here to help you create a memorial that truly honors your loved one, whether you choose to hold a service immediately following cremation or prefer to wait for a time that allows extended family and friends to gather.
Personalized service planning
Our team specializes in personalized services that reflect the unique life and legacy of your loved one. Whether you envision a traditional service or something more modern and unconventional, we offer a range of options to suit your needs.
From selecting the perfect venue to incorporating meaningful rituals and music, we work closely with you to ensure every detail aligns with your vision.
Flexible timing and coordination
Cremation allows for greater flexibility in planning a memorial service. You might choose to hold a small, private gathering immediately after the cremation, followed by a larger celebration of life at a later date when more family members and friends can attend.
Meadow can assist in coordinating these events, ensuring that the timing, logistics, and personal touches come together seamlessly.
Comprehensive support
Our dedicated planners handle all aspects of the service, from managing venue logistics and coordinating with vendors to arranging transportation and accommodation for out-of-town guests.
We understand the importance of every detail, and our goal is to reduce the burden on you, so you can focus on being with your family and friends during this time.
Transparent pricing and customizable packages
We offer clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees, allowing you to select the services that best fit your budget and needs. Whether you prefer a simple, dignified cremation or a fully customized memorial event, Meadow provides options that honor your loved one in the most meaningful way.
Let us help you create a beautiful and lasting tribute that truly reflects the spirit of your loved one.
We’re with you every step of the way, offering compassionate support and expert guidance to ensure a memorial that brings peace and comfort to all who attend.
