Top 10 Funeral Poems for Dad

A father's guiding hand, his wisdom, strength, and often unspoken love form the backbone of countless cherished memories. Saying goodbye is never easy.

When words fail to capture the essence of the emotions we feel, poetry lends its voice, giving shape to our deepest sentiments.

This article showcases ten poignant funeral poems for dad that eloquently convey the irreplaceable bond between a father and child:

1. "Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep" by Clare Harner

Do not stand at my grave and cry,

I am not there; I did not die.

Clare's timeless words offer solace in the idea of everlasting presence. This funeral poem reminds mourners of the undying spirit of their father, making it a comforting choice for a funeral service. This poem is one of the most popular funeral readings chosen for its message. 

2. "If I Should Go" by Joyce Grenfell

If I should go before the rest of you

Break not a flower nor inscribe a stone

Grenfell's reflective poem resonates with acceptance and the wish for loved ones to carry on. It captures a father's protective and selfless nature, emphasising his everlasting love. What to say when someone dies is always challenging. 

 Finding the words that express your sympathy or sorrow doesn't come naturally, but a poem could give you the words you need. 

3. "The Broken Chain" by Ron Tranmer

We little knew that morning God was going to call your name,

In life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same.

When planning a funeral and what to say, Tranmer’s words echo the suddenness of loss and the eternal bond that remains unbroken. This poem beautifully encapsulates the enduring connection between family members, making it apt for remembering a cherished father.

4. "Afterglow" by Helen Lowrie Marshall

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

Of happy memories that I leave when life is done.

Marshall's poem sheds light on the brighter memories, offering mourners a positive and comforting perspective. It's an uplifting choice to celebrate a father's life rather than lamenting his passing. This poem can be read at a wake as well as a funeral. 

5. "Footprints in the Sand" by Mary Stevenson

When you saw only one set of footprints,

It was then that I carried you.

Stevenson’s iconic verses emphasise unwavering support and love, akin to a father's protective nature. As one of the funeral poems for dad, it provides reassurance that even in his absence, a father's guidance and care persist.

6. "He Is Gone (You Can Shed Tears)" by David Harkins

You can shed tears that he is gone,

Or you can smile because he has lived.

Harkins' moving verses present a choice in how we remember our departed loved ones. The poem encourages celebrating the joyful moments shared with a father, making it a heartening option for those seeking comfort.

When someone dies, finding an outlet for grief and expressing your feelings could be difficult, but a poem can describe what you feel in a few short lines. 

7. "Crossing the Bar" by Alfred Lord Tennyson

Sunset and evening star,

And one clear call for me!

And may there be no moaning of the bar,

When I put out to sea.

Tennyson’s maritime allegory about the journey between life and death evokes peace and acceptance. It reminds attendees of a father's journey and the serene transition to the next chapter, making it a fitting tribute at funerals.

8. "Remember" by Christina Rossetti

Remember me when I am gone away,

Gone far away into the silent land.

Rossetti's plea for remembrance is tender and evocative. This poem emphasises the importance of cherishing memories and a father's lasting imprint in our hearts. An excellent way of remembering a loved one could be used with funeral songs and hymns. 

9. "A Song of Living" by Amelia Josephine Burr

I have run and leaped with the rain,

I have taken the wind to my breast.

Burr’s uplifting poem speaks to the vibrancy of life lived to the fullest. As a choice among funeral poems for dad, it serves as a beautiful reminder of a father's active, loving, and dynamic presence in our lives.

10. "Requiem" by Robert Louis Stevenson

Under the wide and starry sky,

Dig the grave and let me lie.

Stevenson's calm acceptance of mortality and desire for rest is evident in this piece. The poem resonates with the peace and contentment of a life well-lived, reflecting the legacy of a father’s strength and wisdom. Ask your funeral director for advice if you need help picking poems for the funeral.