Funeral Poems and Readings
Finding the Right Words
Choosing appropriate readings for a funeral service can help create a meaningful tribute to your loved one. We've compiled a selection of poems, verses, and readings suitable for different types of services and personal preferences.
Traditional Poems
- "Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep" - Mary Elizabeth Frye
- "Death is Nothing at All" - Henry Scott-Holland
- "She is Gone" - David Harkins
- "The Road Not Taken" - Robert Frost
- "Remember" - Christina Rossetti
Modern Verses
- "Afterglow" - Helen Lowrie Marshall
- "Look for Me in Rainbows" - Vicki Brown
- "Life Well Lived" - Unknown
- "When Tomorrow Starts Without Me" - David Romano
- "The Dash" - Linda Ellis
Religious Readings
Christian
- Psalm 23
- Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
- John 14:1-3
- 1 Corinthians 13
- Revelation 21:4
Non-Religious
- "The Peace of Wild Things"
- "Gone From My Sight"
- "The Summer Day"
- "When Great Trees Fall"
- "The Dead"
Celebration of Life
- "The Beauty of Life"
- "Remember Me"
- "Legacy of Love"
- "Life's Journey"
- "Memories Live Forever"
Featured Reading: "Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep"
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 rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
- Mary Elizabeth Frye
Choosing the Right Reading
When selecting readings, consider:
- Personal Connection: Choose readings that reflect the person's life and beliefs
- Service Type: Match the tone to your chosen type of service
- Length: Consider timing within the service
- Reader: Select something the chosen reader will be comfortable with
- Audience: Consider the attendees and what would resonate with them
How We Can Help
- Provide full text of readings and poems
- Suggest appropriate selections for your service
- Print readings in orders of service
- Advise on timing and placement within the service
- Support readers with guidance and practice