Saying goodbye is tough, but the right words can bring some comfort. During times of grief, finding uplifting poems or readings can help ease the heartache, reminding us of the love shared, the lives lived, and the memories that stay with us.
Whether you're planning a service, writing a eulogy, or just looking for solace, choosing a heartfelt poem or quote can help express feelings that are often hard to put into words.
In this article, we've put together a selection of uplifting funeral poems, readings, and quotes. Some are religious, while others are more secular or spiritual. All of them aim to reflect love, peace, and the meaningful impact of a life well-lived.
If you're putting together a personal and meaningful farewell, you might find our free planner, A Fine Farewell, helpful. It gives you thoughtful suggestions to help you celebrate someone’s life in a way that feels just right.
What makes a funeral poem uplifting?
When we think about funerals, we usually picture sadness and grief. Yet, many families find it comforting to choose words that bring some light along with reflection. Uplifting funeral poems recognise the pain but also offer hope. They might talk about finding peace after tough times, cherish joyful memories, and celebrate a loved one’s spirit.
These poems don’t sugarcoat feelings; instead, they help us navigate through sorrow. They remind mourners of the love, laughter, and impact that someone special had on our lives. Some may include a touch of humour, while others express gratitude or simply give a sense of calm amidst the chaos.
Whether they are religious or not, short or long, uplifting poems add a balance to a funeral or celebration of life. They help shift the focus from just loss to what was truly meaningful.
For even more ideas, take a look at our collections of funeral poems for Mum, funeral poems for Dad, or funeral poems for Grandma.
Non-religious and uplifting funeral poems
If you're looking for a meaningful poem that isn’t religious, there are many non-religious funeral poems that can give you both comfort and warmth. These poems focus on shared feelings of love and remembrance, making them suitable for any type of ceremony, whether formal or informal. They highlight the special connections we have with our loved ones, the beauty of life, and the memories that live on after someone has passed. They can also help ease the pain by reminding us that those we've lost are still with us in our hearts and memories.
Here are a few examples:
“Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep” by Clare Harner
“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…”
This well-loved poem reassures us that our loved one is still present, in nature, in spirit, in memory.
“When I Am Dead, My Dearest” by Christina Rossetti
“When I am dead, my dearest,
Sing no sad songs for me;
Plant thou no roses at my head,
Nor shady cypress tree…”
A gentle poem that encourages quiet remembrance rather than outward sorrow.
“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.”
This simple verse invites mourners to focus on the happiness and love shared.
“Farewell My Friends” by Rabindranath Tagore
“It was beautiful as long as it lasted
The journey of my life.
I have no regrets
Whatsoever…”
Tagore’s words feel like a message from the person who has died, offering closure and peace.
Religious and uplifting funeral readings
For those who find strength in faith, religious or spiritual readings can offer a powerful sense of hope. Many families choose passages from the Bible or other spiritual texts to remind them that death is not the end, but that peace, reunion, and eternal life may follow.
These readings offer comfort to those who find strength in their faith. Whether you're looking for a traditional funeral or a more modern celebration with spiritual touches, these verses highlight lasting love and the belief that a person’s spirit remains with us.
Here are some gentle, uplifting choices:
Psalm 23 (The Lord is My Shepherd)
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me…”
One of the most well-known Bible passages, Psalm 23 speaks of comfort, protection, and divine presence.
John 14:1-3
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms…”
These words offer reassurance and the promise of eternal life, a common choice for Christian funerals.
Footprints in the Sand (Author unknown)
“When you saw only one set of footprints,
It was then that I carried you.”
This spiritual poem is a favourite for those who feel supported by faith during times of sorrow.
Wisdom 3:1-3 (Catholic reading)
“The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them…”
Often read at Catholic funerals, this passage speaks of peace and God’s loving care.
Short uplifting funeral poems
Short verses are especially helpful when space is limited, for example, on an order of service, a card, or a floral tribute. They’re also easier to read aloud, making them ideal for children or anyone who might be nervous about speaking at the funeral.
Despite their brevity, these poems can still hold great meaning. A few well-chosen lines can stay with someone long after the service has ended.
Here are some examples:
“She Is Gone” (also known as “You Can Shed Tears”) by David Harkins
“You can shed tears that she is gone
Or you can smile because she has lived.”
A thoughtful reminder that love continues even after loss.
“A Song of Living” by Amelia Josephine Burr
“Because I have loved life, I shall have no sorrow to die.”
This joyful declaration celebrates a life lived fully.
Anonymous verse
“Those we love don’t go away,
They walk beside us every day.”
A comforting thought for those who feel the ongoing presence of someone who has died.
Irish Blessing (traditional)
“May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back…”
A gentle, familiar blessing that feels like a final farewell with warmth.
Positive and happy funeral poems
For some, a funeral or memorial is more about celebrating life than saying goodbye. Happy funeral poems capture this, bringing smiles with the tears and reminding us that love and laughter sometimes go hand in hand.
These poems can be light-hearted or humorous, often reflecting the joyful moments and quirks of the person we’ve lost. Choosing a happy poem can be especially comforting if they were known for their zest for life and laughter.
Here are some positive and uplifting options:
“Miss Me But 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?”
This poem encourages a focus on freedom, not finality.
“Death Is Nothing At All” by Henry Scott-Holland
“I have only slipped away into the next room.
I am I and you are you…”
This classic piece offers a sense of closeness and continuity.
“The Dash” by Linda Ellis
“For it matters not, how much we own,
the cars…the house…the cash.
What matters is how we live and love
and how we spend our dash.”
A poem that reminds us to live meaningfully and love deeply.
Uplifting quotes and verses for funerals
Sometimes a single line says everything. Uplifting funeral quotes and verses can be a comforting addition to a service, a eulogy, or even a memory book. Whether spiritual or secular, these snippets are ideal for offering peace, encouraging remembrance, or gently lifting the spirits of those attending.
For comfort: “What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” – Helen Keller
For remembrance: “To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” – Thomas Campbell
For peace: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” – Matthew 5:4
For perspective: “Grief is the price we pay for love.” – Queen Elizabeth II
For hope: “There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” – C.S. Lewis
These short readings can be read aloud, printed in the service booklet, or simply held close in a pocket or a heart.
Saying goodbye isn’t easy, and everyone finds their own way to do it. Choosing the right words can bring some comfort during tough times. Poems and readings can help pay tribute to the person who has passed and support those still here.
It’s all about what resonates with you and your loved ones. And if you want some more inspiration on creating a unique send-off, take a look at our free guide here.
