How to Write a Funeral Resolution
A funeral resolution is a formal statement shared during a memorial service. It honors the life, values, and contributions of the deceased, often read by someone from a church or community group.
Writing a resolution may seem overwhelming, especially if you’ve never done it before. We’ll break it down into manageable steps, and provide some short, easy-to-follow examples.
You may also want to share a copy of the resolution through our free online obituary so family and friends can read it anytime and add their memories.
What Is a Funeral Resolution?
A funeral resolution is a written tribute read during a service that recognizes the connection between the deceased and a church or faith-based organization. It often:
Shares the individual’s service and values
Expresses the organization’s sorrow
Declares ways the group will honor the person
Offers condolences to the family, who receives a copy of the funeral resolution
Who Uses Funeral Resolutions?
Funeral resolutions are most commonly associated with Christian traditions, especially in African American churches, where they are a long-standing part of religious and cultural funeral practices. However, they are not exclusive to Christians. Many secular organizations, such as schools, libraries, nonprofits, and civic groups, may also use funeral resolutions to honor a member’s contributions.
If your loved one wasn’t affiliated with a church, you can still write a resolution to be read at a memorial, shared online, or given to the family as a keepsake. The format is flexible and can be adapted to reflect any faith, tradition, or connection to a community.
What matters most is the gesture: taking time to recognize a life well-lived and the positive impact they had on others.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Funeral Resolution
Funeral resolutions follow a specific format, with most using this outline:
1. Title
Many funeral resolutions have a simple title, such as "Resolution in Loving Memory of [Name]."
2. Opening Line
Write a brief sentence that honors the person and names the group, such as:
We, the members of Grace Church, pay our respects to our beloved friend, Martha Jones.
On behalf of the Dunkirk County Rotary Club, we wish to honor our beloved colleague, Stewart King.
3. ‘Whereas’ Statements
These are short statements that begin with “Whereas” and explain:
The person’s role in the church or group
Their volunteer or community work
Personal qualities or achievements
Their full name and lasting impact
4. ‘Therefore’ Statements
This is where the church or group outlines how they will continue the person’s legacy. Use phrases like:
“Be it resolved that…”
“Be it further resolved that…”
5. Closing
The resolution concludes with condolences to the family, and often, a meaningful quote, Bible verse, or song lyric. This is followed by a closing line such as “Respectfully submitted by the [Group or Organization Name].”
Funeral Resolution Examples
Use these quick examples to guide your writing. Each one reflects a different relationship or community. You can also use an AI writing tool to organize your resolution into the proper format.
Example: Church Member
Resolution in Loving Memory of Dr. Theodore Green
We, the members of Trinity Lutheran Church, honor Dr. Theodore Green.
Whereas, Dr. Green served faithfully and volunteered at a free clinic,
Whereas, he uplifted others through stories and compassion,
Whereas, he lived his faith through healing and service,
Therefore, be it resolved that the church will visit hospice patients in his honor and carry on his mission.
We offer our condolences and share John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you…”
Respectfully submitted by Trinity Lutheran Church
Example: Community Member
Resolution in Loving Memory of Josie Radcliffe
We, the staff of Palm Street Library, mourn the loss of Josie Radcliffe.
Whereas, Josie led with kindness and created inclusive programs,
Whereas, she taught adult literacy classes in her free time,
Whereas, she believed in the power of storytelling,
Therefore, be it resolved that we name our reading room in her memory and appoint a diversity coordinator.
We share her favorite quote: “If there is a book you want to read... you must write it.” —Toni Morrison
Submitted by the Palm Street Library
Example: Mother
Resolution in Loving Memory of Robin Jarvis
We, the members of Foothills Unitarian Church, remember Robin Jarvis, beloved mother to Angela and Christopher.
Whereas, Robin led Bible studies and served meals to those in need,
Whereas, she spread joy through art and music,
Whereas, she lived with kindness and purpose,
Therefore, be it resolved that we light our chalice in her honor and support causes she cared about.
We share her favorite poem: “Hope is the thing with feathers…” — Emily Dickinson
Respectfully submitted by Foothills Unitarian Church
Example: Father
Resolution in Remembrance of Dennis Aston
We, the members of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, honor Dennis Aston, beloved husband and father.
Whereas, Dennis built our worship music program,
Whereas, he gave music lessons to local children,
Whereas, he lived generously and with talent,
Therefore, be it resolved that we create a scholarship in his name and continue his musical legacy.
We share Matthew 5:4: “Blessed are those who mourn…”
Respectfully submitted by the African Methodist Episcopal Church
Tips for Writing a Thoughtful Resolution
Here are a few ways to make your resolution meaningful:
Ask for a template – Some churches or groups have preferred formats.
Talk to the family – They may share stories or traits you didn’t know.
Take your time – Write, edit, and review with others before the service.
Keep it short and sincere – Two to three “whereas” and “therefore” lines are enough.
A Personal Way to Say Goodbye
Taking time to write down what someone meant to their community, through a resolution, a eulogy, or a simple obituary, helps families process grief. It ensures that the person’s story is remembered. Whether the farewell is spiritual, secular, or deeply personal, every act of memorialization matters. It gives us space to grieve, to reflect, and to say goodbye in a way that feels right.
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Guide to Getting Organized
Managing the responsibilities after a loss can feel overwhelming. This guide helps you gather essential information and stay organized as you navigate the steps ahead.
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