Programs to include deceased father and step parents

We did something similar to what Shayna recommends. I put FH's dad and stepmom as "groom's parents" and then did a "In memory of" section at the bottom that listed his mother as "groom's mother."

It feels weird listing his stepmom as his parent, since he only lived with them for a few years and they are not very close, but I didn't know how else to do it.

You could list "Here in spirit" maybe? Then put your dad's name next to it?

Hi Miranda! Welcome to WeddingWire, I'm so glad you've reached out for help/advice on handling this issue. I think it's beautiful to want to honor your father, and I am so sorry to hear of his passing. Including him on the reception program is a lovely idea. You could certainly dedicate the ceremony to him as Shayna mentioned, or include a photo of him on the back of the program.

To honor your step mother's helpfulness, you could include a, "Special thanks to ______," section inside the program. I do not think it is necessary etiquette to list her new husband as he is technically of no relation to you.

Have you considered other ways of honoring your father? Like carrying a photograph of him down the aisle, or laying one of your bouquet flowers on an empty seat in preservation of his memory?

I am happy to help you continue brainstorming!