Words for a memorial word portrait: tributes that work
A memorial word portrait reads best when the words come from the family: short tributes (“Forever in our hearts”, “A life well lived”), a favourite scripture, and the names of children and grandchildren. Put the full name and the years on the name plate — for example “Chief Emeka Eze · 1948 – 2026”. For a funeral service, 24×36 is the usual easel size.
Tributes that work well
- Forever in our hearts
- Rest in perfect peace
- Gone but never forgotten
- A life well lived
- Until we meet again
- Blessed are the pure in heart · Matthew 5:8
How many words do I need?
Anything from about 20 words to a full page. Collect one line from each family member, add a psalm or hymn, and list the names of children and grandchildren. Short lists are repeated to fill the portrait; longer tributes fill it once, so mourners find whole sentences up close.
What goes on the name plate?
Use the name the family used most, with titles if they matter (Chief, Dr., Pastor, Mama), and the years with an en dash: 1948 – 2026. Our designer sends you a proof, so you can check every name before we print.
What size is right for a funeral service?
For an easel at a church or hall, 24×36 is common; 36×48 suits a large hall. For the family home afterwards, 16×20 is a respectful size.