How to Word a Memorial Service Invitation
Planning a loved one’s memorial service is a time that’s filled with so many emotions. From happy memories to heavy grief and everything in-between. Putting together a celebration of life that’s as beautiful as the life they lived is such an honorable task.
When it comes time to invite friends and family to a memorial service, you have options. You can spread the news through word-of-mouth or try to reach everyone through email.
But, we love sending a real paper memorial service invitation. Not only will you be sure to reach everyone, but with photos and memories included, the invitation itself doubles as a beautiful tribute to their life.
Featured Memorial Invitation: Simply Remembered
Memorial Service Wording Examples
When it comes time to word the memorial service or celebration of life invitations, you have lots of options. You can keep it basic or add extras like song lyrics or bible passages.
Here are our favorite wording examples:
Memorial Service Invitation Wording That Includes a Quote
Life is but a stopping place, a pause in what’s to be
A resting place along the road to sweet eternity
We are sad to share the news that
Kenneth Roberts passed away
on June 16th, 2025
Please join us for a
Memorial service in his honor,
Saturday, July 26th at 10:00am
Stonebrook Community Church
3611 Eisenhower Avenue
Ames, Iowa
Reception to follow
2560 Duff Avenue, Ames, Iowa
Memorial Service Invitation Wording with a Bible Verse
For the wages of sin is death,
but the gift of God is eternal life
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:23
It is with great sorrow that we
announce the passing of
Marjorie Estelle Davis
Please join us for a
memorial service
in celebration of her life.
Saturday, June 28th at 11:00 am
Michigan Center Bible Church
150 Broad Street
Michigan Center, Michigan
Reception to follow in
the church basement
Most Popular Memorial Service Invitation Wording
In Loving Memory of a life well lived
Lonna Mary Trembath
November 10, 1954 - May 18, 2025
Please join us for a memorial service in her honor,
filled with stories, memories, love and laughter.
Saturday, August 30th at 1:00 pm
Anchor Point Community Church
5202 Colorado Street
Duluth, Minnesota
Reception to follow at Dino’s Grill
Simple Celebration of Life Invitation Wording
Please join us for a
celebration of life in honor of
JANICE MARY HAGEN
Saturday, May 3rd
at 11:00 am
Cornerstone Church
1250 Heritage Lake Boulevard
Knoxville, Tennessee
Reception to follow
at the Hagen home
41 Hounds Court
Knoxville, Tennessee
Heartfelt Celebration of Life Invitation Wording
It is with great sorrow that we
announce the passing of
Marcia Marie Davies
Her wish was that we not mourn her
passing, but celebrate her life.
Please join us for a memorial service
in her honor, filled with stories,
memories, love and laughter.
Saturday, December 20th at 11:00 am
Cross View Lutheran Church
6645 McCauley Trail West
Edina, Minnesota
Reception to follow in the church basement
Frequently Asked Questions About Memorial Service Invitations
What information should be included in a memorial service invitation?
A memorial service invitation should include the name of the person being honored, the date and time of the service, the location, and any special instructions for guests. You may also wish to include details about a reception, celebration of life gathering, charitable donation requests, dress preferences, or RSVP information. Keeping all essential details in one place helps guests prepare and attend with confidence.
How is a memorial service invitation different from a funeral announcement?
A funeral announcement typically informs people about a funeral service that is held shortly after a person's passing. A memorial service invitation is often sent when family and friends are gathering to celebrate a loved one's life, sometimes weeks or months later. Memorial service invitations generally have a more personalized tone and may include photos, favorite quotes, or memories.
Who should receive a memorial service invitation?
Memorial service invitations can be sent to family members, close friends, coworkers, neighbors, religious community members, and anyone whose life was touched by the person being remembered. If you're unsure whether someone would want to attend, it's generally thoughtful to extend the invitation.
Can you include a photo on a memorial service invitation?
Yes. Including a favorite photo is a meaningful way to celebrate your loved one's life and personality. Many families choose a cherished portrait, while others select a candid image that reflects hobbies, passions, or special memories. Photo memorial invitations can help create a personal connection for guests.
What should you say instead of "funeral" on an invitation?
Many families prefer phrases such as "Celebration of Life," "Memorial Service," "In Loving Memory," "A Gathering to Remember," or "A Service of Remembrance." The wording you choose should reflect the tone and purpose of the event while honoring your loved one's wishes.
Is it appropriate to request charitable donations instead of flowers?
Yes. Many families include a brief note such as, "In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to..." followed by the organization name. This allows guests to honor the deceased in a meaningful way while supporting a cause that was important to them.