5 Things That Go Inside A Funeral Folder
One complete walkthrough plus two quick Shorts to reinforce the key answers.
Watch the full video
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The Funeral Program Site helps families create funeral folders that feel organized, comforting, and easy for guests to follow. A funeral folder is more than a cover, it is a simple way to keep the most important information and keepsakes together so people are not fumbling for details during an emotional day.
If you are assembling a folder for a service, the goal is clarity. Keep the text readable, limit extra inserts, and focus on the five pieces guests actually look for. When these five items are included, your folder feels complete without feeling crowded.
Quick layout tip: if space is tight, shorten poems and verses. A few meaningful lines are usually stronger than a full page of text.
The 5 things that go inside a funeral folder
1) Obituary or life summary
This is the piece most guests read first. Keep it respectful and easy to scan: full name, dates, immediate family, a few highlights, and service details if they are not already listed elsewhere.
2) Order of service
The order of service guides everyone through the ceremony. Include the flow in the order it happens: opening, readings, special music, eulogy, closing, and committal if applicable. If a name or role is unknown, leave it general rather than guessing.
3) Poem, prayer, or scripture
Choose something short that fits the space and the tone of the service. Many families select one verse, one brief prayer, or a short poem that reflects the person being honored. If you want multiple readings, consider placing the full text on a separate memorial card rather than crowding the main insert.
4) Acknowledgements and thank you message
This is where the family expresses gratitude to attendees, clergy, pallbearers, caregivers, or anyone who supported them. Keep it simple and sincere. If you plan to mail formal thank-you notes later, you can still include a short acknowledgment inside the folder.
5) Keepsake insert
A keepsake is the part guests often keep for years. Common inserts include a funeral prayer card, memorial bookmark, small tribute card, or a note directing guests to an online memorial. If you include a keepsake, make sure it fits neatly inside the folder without bending.
Two quick Shorts that summarize the checklist
These short clips are designed for quick reinforcement. Watch the long video above for the full breakdown and layout tips.
Short: 5 things inside a funeral folder
Quick checklist for families assembling a funeral folder and trying not to miss the essentials.
Short: keepsakes guests keep
Why a prayer card or bookmark insert matters and how it turns a folder into a lasting keepsake.
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 extra items first. Keep the five essentials and place additional details on a separate card or online link.
Next step
Start by placing the obituary and order of service first, then choose one short reading, add acknowledgements, and finish with a keepsake insert. If you want the full explanation and layout guidance, watch the long video above and use the Shorts as quick reminders.