Top 3 Best Poems For Funerals

In times of grief and loss, finding solace in the right words can be immensely comforting. Poems have a unique ability to express emotions that are often difficult to put into words. Whether you’re planning a funeral service or looking for a way to honor a loved one’s memory, incorporating poetry can be a beautiful tribute. 

“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 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’s timeless poem offers a reassuring message of eternal presence beyond physical boundaries. It speaks to the interconnectedness of life and the enduring spirit of the departed. The imagery of nature evokes a sense of peace and continuity, reminding mourners that their loved one remains a part of the world in a profound and everlasting way.

• “Remember Me” by Margaret Mead

“To the living, I am gone,

To the sorrowful, I will never return,

To the angry, I was cheated,

But to the happy, I am at peace,

And to the faithful, I have never left.

I cannot be seen, but I can be heard,

So as you stand upon a shore, gazing at a beautiful sea — remember me.

As you look in awe at a mighty forest and its grand majesty — remember me.

As you look upon a flower and admire its simplicity — remember me.

Remember me in your heart, your thoughts, your memories of the times we loved,

The times we cried, the times we fought, the times we laughed.

For if you always think of me, I will never be gone.”

Margaret Mead’s “Remember Me” encapsulates the essence of remembrance and legacy. It encourages mourners to cherish the memories shared with the departed and to find comfort in the enduring impact they’ve had on their lives. The poem beautifully acknowledges the full spectrum of emotions experienced in the wake of loss, offering reassurance to those grappling with grief while celebrating the lasting imprint of love and companionship.

• “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’ll come back,

Or you can open your eyes and see all she’s left.

Your heart can be empty because you can’t see her,

Or you can be full of the love you shared.

You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday,

Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.

You can remember her and only that she’s gone,

Or you can cherish her memory and let it live on.

You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back,

Or you can do what she’d want: smile, open your eyes, love, and go on.”

David Harkins’ poignant poem offers a message of resilience and acceptance in the face of loss. It encourages mourners to embrace the memories of their loved ones with gratitude and to find strength in carrying their legacy forward. The poem’s emphasis on choosing to celebrate life rather than dwell on absence serves as a powerful reminder to honor the departed by living fully in the present.