funeral pamphlet poems

Losing a loved one is a deeply emotional experience, and finding the right words to honor their memory can be challenging. Funeral pamphlets, also known as memorial service programs, offer a way to commemorate the life of the deceased and provide comfort to those who are grieving. Including poems in these pamphlets can be a meaningful way to express emotions and share memories. 

Why Include Poems in Funeral Pamphlets?

Poetry has a unique ability to convey complex emotions in a concise and powerful manner. Including poems in funeral pamphlets can :

• Express Emotions: Poems can articulate feelings of grief, love, and remembrance that may be difficult to put into words.
• Provide Comfort: Reading or hearing poetry can be a source of solace and can help mourners feel connected to each other and to the deceased.
• Celebrate a Life: Poems can celebrate the life, achievements, and unique qualities of the person who has passed away.
• Create a Lasting Tribute: Funeral pamphlets are often kept as keepsakes, and including meaningful poems can make them a cherished memento.

Selecting Poems for Funeral Pamphlets

When choosing poems for a funeral pamphlet, consider the following:

• Relevance: Select poems that resonate with the personality, interests, or beliefs of the deceased. For example, if the person was a nature lover, a poem about the beauty of the natural world may be appropriate.
• Length: Choose poems that are of a suitable length for the pamphlet. Shorter poems are often preferred, as they can be read quickly and easily.
• Tone: Consider the tone of the poems and choose ones that strike the right emotional chord. Some poems may be more contemplative and introspective, while others may be more uplifting and celebratory.
• Religious or Cultural Considerations: If the funeral is being held within a religious or cultural context, consider selecting poems that are in line with those beliefs or traditions.

Poems for Funeral Pamphlets

Here are some poems that can be included in funeral pamphlets:

 “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.

 “Remember Me” by Margaret Mead

Remember me and smile,

For it’s better to forget

Than to remember me

And cry.

 “To Those Whom I Love & Those Who Love Me” – Unknown

When I am gone, release me, let me go.

I have so many things to see and do,

You mustn’t tie yourself to me with too many tears,

But be thankful we had so many good years.

I gave you my love, and you can only guess

How much you’ve given me in happiness.

I thank you for the love that you have shown,

But now it’s time I traveled on alone.

So grieve for me a while, if grieve you must,

Then let your grief be comforted by trust.

It’s only for a while that we must part,

So bless the memories within your heart.

I won’t be far away, for life goes on.

So if you need me, call and I will come.

Though you can’t see or touch me, I’ll be near,

And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear

All my love around you soft and clear.

And then, when you must come this way alone,

I’ll greet you with a smile and say,

“Welcome Home.”

“If I Should Go” by Joyce Grenfell

If I should go before the rest of you

Break not a flower nor inscribe a stone

Nor when I’m gone speak in a Sunday voice

But be the usual selves that I have known

Weep if you must

Parting is hell

But life goes on

So sing as well

“Let Me Go” by Christina Rossetti

When I come to the end of the road

And the sun has set for me

I want no rites in a gloom-filled room

Why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little, but not too long

And not with your head bowed low

Remember the love that we once shared

Miss me, but let me go.