funeral thank you card poem

When we lose a loved one, expressing gratitude for the support and condolences received can be both a comforting and challenging task. Funeral thank you cards offer a heartfelt way to acknowledge the kindness of family and friends during such a difficult time. Incorporating a poem into these thank you cards can add a personal and emotional touch, encapsulating feelings of appreciation and reverence. In this guide, we’ll explore the significance of including a poem in funeral thank you cards, provide examples, and offer tips for crafting your own.

Why Include a Poem in a Funeral Thank You Card?

Emotional Expression

A poem can eloquently convey the deep emotions that often accompany the loss of a loved one. Through thoughtful and poignant language, a poem can express sentiments that may be difficult to articulate otherwise.

Personal Touch

Including a poem in a funeral thank you card adds a personal element, showing recipients that you took the time to find or create something special. It can make the card more memorable and meaningful.

Comfort and Solace

Poetry has the power to provide comfort and solace. It can offer a sense of peace and understanding, helping to soothe the hearts of those who are grieving.

Examples of Funeral Thank You Card Poems

Classic Poems

“Gone From My Sight” by Henry Van Dyke

I am standing upon the seashore.

 A ship, at my side, 

spreads her white sails to the moving breeze 

and starts for the blue ocean. 

She is an object of beauty and strength.

 I stand and watch her until, at length, 

she hangs like a speck of white cloud 

just where the sea and sky come

 to mingle with each other.

 Then, someone at my side says,

 “There, she is gone.”

Gone where?

 Gone from my sight. That is all.

 She is just as large in mast, hull, and spar

 as she was when she left my side. 

And, she is just as able to bear her load

 of living freight to her destined port.

 Her diminished size is in me, not in her.

 And, just at the moment when someone says, 

“There, she is gone,” there are other eyes

 watching her coming, and other voices 

ready to take up the glad shout,

 “Here she comes!”

“Afterglow” by Helen Lowrie Marshall

I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one.

 I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done.

 I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways, 

Of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days.

 I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun

 Of happy memories that I leave when life is done.

Custom Poems

Creating a custom poem tailored to your loved one can add a unique and heartfelt touch. Here are some tips for writing your own funeral thank you card poem:

1. Reflect on Memories Think about special moments you shared with your loved one. What were their favorite activities, places, or sayings? Incorporate these details into your poem.
2. Express Gratitude Use the poem to express your gratitude for the support and kindness you’ve received. Mention specific acts of kindness, such as meals provided, comforting words, or help with funeral arrangements.
3. Keep It Simple You don’t need to be a professional poet to write something meaningful. Simple, honest words from the heart can be the most powerful.

Example of a Custom Poem

In times of sorrow and distress,

 Your kindness brought us peace.

 Through tears and grief, your love was there, 

A soothing, gentle release.

We thank you for your comforting words,

 And all the ways you’ve shown, 

That in our darkest, saddest days,

 We were not alone.

Crafting the Perfect Funeral Thank You Card

Choosing the Right Card

Select a card that reflects the tone and style you wish to convey. This could be a simple and elegant design, or something that includes a photo of your loved one.

Writing a Personal Message

In addition to the poem, include a personal message thanking the recipient for their support. This can be a short note expressing your appreciation for their presence, kind words, or specific actions they took to help you during this time.

Printing and Delivery

Consider how you will deliver the cards. Handwritten notes can feel more personal, but printed cards with a handwritten signature can also be meaningful. Ensure the quality of the paper and printing reflects the significance of the occasion.