1) Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep by Mary Elizabeth Frye
“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.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain;
I am the gentle autumn’s rain.”
This well-known poem is a popular choice for funerals because of its overarching message of comfort. It speaks about the enduring presence of the departed, reminding us that they continue to remain in the world alongside us. These beautiful words encourage loved ones to find solace in the beauty of nature, knowing that their loved one’s spirit is still with them.
2) Funeral Blues by W.H. Auden
“Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone,
Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone,
Silence the pianos and with muffled drum
Bring out the coffin, let the mourners come.”
W.H. Auden’s poignant words perfectly encapsulate the feelings of grief and sorrow that accompany the loss of a loved one. This poem makes for an emotional funeral service reading, expressing the depth of love felt for the deceased and the profound sadness caused by their absence.
3) She Is Gone (He Is Gone) by David Harkins
“You can shed tears that she is gone,
Or you can smile because she has lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that she will come back,
Or you can open your eyes and see all that she has left.
Your heart can be empty because you can’t see her,
Or you can be full of the love that you shared.”
This simple yet powerful poem is often chosen for funeral services thanks to its gentle message of moving forward, whilst still holding onto the cherished memories of a loved one. It reassures us that although our loved one is no longer physically present, their spirit remains in our hearts.
4) Remember by Christina Rossetti
“Remember me when I am gone away,
Gone far away into the silent land;
When you can no more hold me by the hand,
Nor I half turn to go yet turning stay.”
Christina Rossetti’s “Remember” is a tender reflection of love and remembrance. It emphasises the importance of treasuring beloved memories, but also acknowledges the need to move forward without the deceased. The gentle tone of this poem makes it a fitting tribute during a funeral service, sharing feelings of love and optimism.
5) Crossing the Bar by Alfred Lord Tennyson
“Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea.”
This classic poem by Tennyson is often selected for its hopeful imagery of passing peacefully from life to death. The overarching metaphor of setting sail across the bar is a beautiful way to illustrate the transition from this life to whatever comes next, making it a meaningful poem for a funeral service.
Need help choosing the right poem for your loved one’s funeral?
Choosing or reading a poem at a funeral service allows you to share a heartfelt tribute to your loved one. Whether you are looking for something that captures the depth of your grief, celebrates the life of the deceased, or provides comfort to those in attendance, these memorable poems for a funeral service can help convey what words alone may struggle to express.
At Alexander Burn, we understand the importance of creating a meaningful and respectful farewell. Our funeral homes, situated in Cheltenham, Bishop’s Cleeve, Tewkesbury, and Winchcombe, are here to provide support and guidance every step of the way, helping you honour your loved one’s memory in a way that feels right for you.
If you need assistance with arranging a funeral or choosing the perfect reading for the service, please do not hesitate to get in touch with one of our compassionate team members today.
