5 Things That Go Inside A Funeral Folder
One complete walkthrough plus two quick Shorts to reinforce the essentials.
Watch the full video
Looking for a ready-to-use collection of funeral folders? This link provides a simple reference page you can share with family members.
The Funeral Program Site helps families create funeral folders that feel organized, comforting, and easy to follow. A funeral folder is more than a cover—it keeps key information and meaningful keepsakes together so guests can stay focused on the service instead of searching for details.
The best folders are simple and readable. Aim for clear headings, short blocks of text, and only the inserts guests truly look for. When you include the five essentials below, your folder feels complete without feeling crowded.
Space-saving tip: if your reading is long, use a short excerpt (a few lines). A concise verse or poem usually reads stronger and fits better.
The 5 things that go inside a funeral folder
1) Obituary or life summary
This is what many guests read first. Keep it easy to scan: full name, dates, immediate family, a few meaningful highlights, and any service details that guests may need later.
2) Order of service
The order of service helps everyone follow along. List the ceremony in the exact sequence it happens (welcome, readings, music, eulogy, closing, and committal if included). If a role or name is unknown, keep it general rather than guessing.
3) Poem, prayer, or scripture
Choose something that matches the tone of the day and fits your space. One strong selection is usually better than multiple long readings. If you want to share more, consider placing the full text on a separate keepsake card.
4) Acknowledgements and thank you message
A short acknowledgment is enough: a sincere thank you to attendees and those who supported the family. If formal thank-you notes will be sent later, this message can still be included as a simple expression of gratitude.
5) Keepsake insert
This is the item guests often keep. Popular choices include a funeral prayer card, memorial bookmark, tribute card, or a small note directing guests to an online memorial. Make sure it fits neatly so it does not bend or slide out.
Two quick Shorts to reinforce the checklist
Use these Shorts for quick reminders. The long video above includes the full breakdown and layout tips.
Short: quick 5-item checklist
A fast checklist of what to include so your folder feels complete and easy for guests to follow.
Short: folder tip for clarity
A quick organizing tip to keep the folder readable, not crowded, and easy to hold onto during the service.
Quick reference table
| Insert | What it does | Keep it short | Best practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Obituary | Summarizes the person’s life and key family details | Yes | Use clear sections and avoid overly long lists |
| Order of service | Guides guests step-by-step through the ceremony | Yes | List in exact sequence and double-check names/titles |
| Poem, prayer, or scripture | Adds faith, comfort, and personal meaning | Yes | Choose one strong selection that fits your space |
| Acknowledgements | Thanks attendees and those who supported the family | Yes | Simple, sincere wording reads best |
| Keepsake insert | Gives guests something to keep and revisit later | Optional | Make sure it fits the folder cleanly without bending |
If your folder feels crowded, remove extras first. Keep the essentials here, then place additional information on a separate card or link.
Next step
Start with the obituary and order of service, then add one short reading, a simple acknowledgment, and a keepsake insert. Watch the long video above for the full breakdown, and use the Shorts as quick reminders.