Poems and Quotes for Funeral Programs

When words feel impossible, a gentle poem or quote can carry the message of the heart. Including meaningful verses in a funeral program is one of the simplest ways to bring peace, comfort, and even hope to grieving family and friends.

Whether you want to honor a parent, a child, or a close friend, carefully chosen words can become a treasured part of the service — something that guests can read again and again in the days to come.

Why Include Poems or Quotes in a Funeral Program?

• They speak the unspeakable. Sometimes others’ words capture emotions we can’t express ourselves.

• They bring comfort. A single verse can reassure, calm, and inspire.

• They offer hope. Scriptures, spiritual texts, or uplifting quotes remind us of eternal love and life.

• They create keepsakes. Guests often keep funeral programs for years — meaningful words become part of their memories.

Popular Types of Poems and Quotes

1. Scripture Verses

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

2. Classic Poems

“Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow.” — Mary Elizabeth Frye

3. Comforting Quotes

“What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” — Helen Keller

4. Child Memorial Verses

“Tiny footprints on the sand of time, too soon erased, but forever remembered.”

How to Add Poems and Quotes to a Program

• Place a favorite verse alongside photos.

• Use short lines as page dividers.

• Feature a longer poem on the back page as a lasting tribute.

• Consider a bookmark or thank-you card with a meaningful scripture.

Funeral programs are more than service outlines — they’re comfort for the living and a legacy of love for the departed. A carefully chosen poem or scripture can heal hearts, one word at a time.

If you’re ready to create a program filled with beauty and meaning, you can explore our funeral program templates here .