Losing a grandmother can mark the end of an era. She may have been the heart of the family, the keeper of stories, traditions, and wisdom. In the days and weeks that follow, you might look for ways to reflect on her life and the impact she had.
Poetry can offer comfort and perspective. Whether you’re looking for something to read at her funeral, share with family, include in a eulogy, or keep for yourself, this article offers a range of poems that honour the many roles a grandmother can play.
From classic verses to more modern reflections, we’ve gathered words that may help you celebrate her life in a way that feels personal, heartfelt, and true, while also offering a respectful farewell, whatever your relationship with her may have been.
Short funeral poems for a grandmother
Sometimes the simplest verses say the most. A few lines, carefully chosen, can express what feels too big or too painful to put into words. Short poems can be especially helpful when you're feeling overwhelmed.
These pieces are easy to read and remember, and they often say a lot with just a few words. Whether spoken aloud during a service or tucked into a card or keepsake, they can help you express what’s hard to say on your own.
Some touching short poems for grandmothers include:
- "Nanny" by Laura White – A heartfelt poem that captures the passing of a beloved grandmother and the time that follows: "We kept you too long and there waiting, the angels have said you can go."
- "The Little Old Lady" by Rodney Bennett – A sweet and nostalgic reminder that every grandmother was once a little girl: "That grey-haired lady is as old as old can be, yet once she was a little girl, a little girl like me."
- "She is Gone" by David Harkins – This poem offers comfort and perspective with the lines: "You can shed tears that she is gone, or you can smile because she has lived."
- "A Wonderful Grandmother" (Author Unknown) – A traditional poem expressing warm affection: "We had a wonderful grandmother, one who never really grew old."
- "Gone From Us" (Author Unknown) – This short but poignant poem describes a warm and gentle person: "Gone from us that smiling face, the cheerful pleasant ways."
- "For Grandma With Love" by Genie Graveline – A warm and affectionate tribute that captures the joy, wisdom and love a grandmother brings: "You’re more precious than words can describe, you’re the heart of our family."
Poems about a grandma's legacy
A grandmother often plays a lasting role in shaping who we are—through the time she gave, the lessons she taught, and the example she set. Poems about legacy can help reflect on that influence, capturing both shared family stories and more personal moments.
These verses can be a good choice for a eulogy or memorial reading, especially if you want to highlight how her life and values continue to live on in those who knew her.
- "The Watcher" by Margaret Widdemer – A tribute to a protective and ever-present figure: "She always leaned to watch for us, anxious if we were late."
- "Her Hands" by Maggie Pittman – A touching reminder of everything a grandmother gave: "Her hands held me gently from the day I took my first breath."
- "The Death Bed" by Thomas Hood – A moving piece about the final hours of life: "We thought her dying when she slept, And sleeping when she died."
- "Growing Up With Grandma" by Candy Canan – A personal reflection on a life shaped by a grandmother’s care: "So much I owed to Grandma. That was plain to see. For loving me and making me the man I am today."
- "The Watcher" by Anne Widdemer – A touching reminder that her love and care continue even after she’s gone: "And so I think that where she is, she must be watching yet."
Nature-inspired poems for Nan
Nature often gives us the words when we can’t find our own. Its cycles of growth, change, and renewal make a fitting metaphor for grief, and can bring calm and grounding when emotions feel too large to carry.
If your grandmother loved the outdoors, gardening, or simply watching the seasons turn, a nature-inspired poem may help reflect her spirit.
- "Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep" by Clare Harner – A comforting classic: "I am a thousand winds that blow, I am the diamond glints on snow."
- "Afterglow" by Helen Lowrie Marshall – This poem offers a soft, peaceful farewell: "I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun."
- "When I Am Among the Trees" by Mary Oliver – A reflection on peace and presence: "Around me the trees stir in their leaves and call out, ‘Stay awhile.’"
- "The Peace Of Wild Things" by Wendell Berry – The poem reminds us that while human life can be shadowed by fear and sorrow, nature offers a place of stillness where we can rest: "I come into the peace of wild things who do not tax their lives with forethought of grief."
- "You Meant So Much" by Cassie Mitchell – A tender and honest poem that weaves emotion and weather imagery to express deep loss and lasting love: "You brightened up the darkest day, And the cloudiest sky."
Religious funeral poems for Grandma
If your grandmother’s faith was a strong part of her life, or it brings comfort to you and your family, including a religious poem or prayer can help bring a sense of peace and continuity. These verses often speak to hope, eternal love, and reunion in the afterlife, offering reassurance in a time of sorrow.
You may wish to choose something from scripture, a well-loved psalm, or a poem that reflects the strength of belief. These selections can be particularly meaningful in services where prayer or spiritual readings are central.
Some well-known and loved religious poems include:
- "God Saw You Getting Tired" (Author Unknown) – A popular Christian funeral poem offering comfort: "God saw you getting tired, and a cure was not to be."
- Psalm 23 (King James Version) – A timeless biblical passage offering solace and reassurance: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures."
- "Safely Home" (Author Unknown) – This poem offers peaceful imagery of entering heaven: "I am home in Heaven, dear ones, oh so happy and so bright."
- "My Guardian Angel" by Susan Perry – A touching tribute recognising a grandmother’s guiding presence: “God gave me a beautiful lady to help watch me grow.”
Choosing the right funeral poem
There’s no right or wrong when it comes to choosing a funeral poem. Some families opt for something deeply personal, others choose poems that speak in a more universal voice. It’s worth thinking about what would have resonated with your grandmother. Was she spiritual? Quiet and kind? Bold and funny?
A poem that reflects even a small part of her character can help those who hear it feel more connected, both to her memory and to one another.
You might find a poem that says exactly what you feel, or you might choose one that simply brings peace.
Including poems during a celebration of life
Even if you’re not planning a traditional funeral, there are still meaningful ways to include poetry. Many families choose direct cremation, followed by a separate memorial or celebration of life. This can be a simple gathering at home, a walk in nature, or a toast at her favourite spot.
A poem can play a beautiful role in these moments. You might:
- Read it aloud as part of a memory-sharing evening
- Print it on the back of an order of service or memorial card
- Include it in a letter to your grandmother or a memory box
- Share it in a group message with other family members
It’s a small gesture, but one that can bring comfort and connection.
Finding comfort in words
Grief can feel overwhelming, but words, whether your own or borrowed, can bring comfort and help express what’s often hard to say. A funeral poem isn’t about crafting the perfect tribute. It’s about finding something that speaks to your love, your memories, and the space your grandmother leaves behind.
If you’re facing a goodbye, you don’t have to do it alone. Our team is here with advice, practical information, and support to help you through. You might find our guide to creating the perfect send-off a helpful place to start. And if you’re organising a memorial or celebration of life for your grandmother, our free send-off planner, A Fine Farewell, can help you shape a tribute that truly reflects her life, ensuring a meaningful and personal celebration of her memory.
