Funeral Songs for Grandparents:
Honoring Grandma & Grandpa
Funeral songs for grandparents honor the wisdom, unconditional love, and lasting legacy of grandmothers and grandfathers who shaped our families across generations. From traditional hymns that brought them comfort to classic songs from their era, these selections celebrate lives well-lived and the precious memories they leave behind.
Choosing Songs for Grandparents
Grandparents hold a special place in family history, bridging generations with wisdom, unconditional love, and cherished traditions. Their funerals often bring together multiple generations to celebrate lives that spanned decades of change, growth, and enduring family bonds.
The music chosen for grandparent funerals should reflect their era, values, and the comfort they brought to family gatherings. Whether they preferred traditional hymns sung in church, classic country songs, or big band melodies from their youth, the right songs honor both their individual personality and their role as the family's foundation. Many families choose a mix of religious hymns and secular favorites that capture the full spectrum of a grandparent's long, well-lived life.
Recommended Songs for Grandparents
These songs honor grandparents' wisdom, faith, and enduring love. The collection includes traditional hymns beloved by older generations, classic songs from their formative years, and timeless tributes celebrating family legacy and reunion.
Amazing Grace
by Traditional
A timeless hymn of redemption and hope that has comforted mourners for centuries.
Why it's meaningful: This beloved hymn speaks of salvation and the journey from loss to grace, offering profound comfort to those grieving.
Best moment: Often played during the processional or as a closing hymn.
Precious Lord, Take My Hand
by Mahalia Jackson
Written by Thomas Dorsey after losing his wife and infant son, this deeply personal hymn has become the quintessential gospel funeral song.
Why it's meaningful: Its heartfelt plea for divine guidance through life\\
Best moment: Perfect for processional or during reflection moments.
In My Life
by The Beatles
The Beatles\\
Why it's meaningful: Perfectly balances honoring the past while acknowledging loss -
Best moment: Universal choice for honoring anyone, celebrating their place in your life\\
How Great Thou Art
by Traditional Hymn
A majestic hymn praising God
Why it's meaningful: Offers hope of reunion in heaven and celebrates faith
Best moment: Powerful as a congregational hymn or solo performance.
Somewhere Over the Rainbow
by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
A gentle ukulele version that transforms the classic into a peaceful farewell.
Why it's meaningful: The Hawaiian rendition brings a sense of peace and the promise of a better place.
Best moment: Creates a serene atmosphere during reflection or exit.
Unchained Melody
by The Righteous Brothers
A timeless ballad about enduring love and longing that spans generations.
Why it's meaningful: Speaks to the eternal nature of true love, even beyond death.
Best moment: Beautiful for services celebrating long marriages.
Requiem
by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Mozart\\
Why it's meaningful: Combines the majesty of classical music with the solemnity of the Catholic mass for the dead.
Best moment: Appropriate for formal Catholic services or classical music lovers.
Going Up Yonder
by Walter Hawkins
This uplifting anthem celebrates the promise of heaven and eternal life, transforming grief into hope.
Why it's meaningful: A staple in Black Protestant funeral traditions, it focuses on the glorious reunion awaiting believers in heaven during homegoing services.
Best moment: Powerful as a recessional or celebration of life moment.
Soon and Very Soon
by Andraé Crouch
This triumphant song anticipates the joy of seeing Jesus and being reunited with loved ones in heaven.
Why it's meaningful: Based on Revelation 21:3-4, it speaks of no more crying or dying. Performed at Michael Jackson\\
Best moment: Celebratory recessional or closing hymn.
I\\
by Albert Brumley
This song uses the metaphor of a bird freed from prison to describe the soul\\
Why it's meaningful: The most recorded gospel song of all time with over 1,000 versions, celebrating joyous liberation death brings to believers.
Best moment: Perfect for New Orleans jazz funerals and celebration of life services.
It Is Well With My Soul
by Horatio Spafford
Written as Spafford\\
Why it's meaningful: Despite devastating loss, Spafford declared
Best moment: Powerful testimony of faith during the darkest moments.
Will the Circle Be Unbroken
by The Carter Family
Classic American folk hymn about family reunion in heaven, with the Carter Family\\
Why it's meaningful: The promise of reuniting in an unbroken circle offers hope that families separated by death will be together again.
Best moment: Perfect for family patriarchs/matriarchs or emphasizing heavenly reunion.
We'll Meet Again
by Vera Lynn
Iconic WWII-era song promising reunion, embodying hope during separation and loss.
Why it's meaningful: Offers comfort through the belief that loved ones will be reunited beyond this life.
Best moment: Perfect for honoring the Greatest Generation or those who lived through WWII.
In the Arms of an Angel
by Sarah McLachlan
A tender song offering comfort and release from suffering.
Why it's meaningful: Provides solace with its message of finding peace after struggle.
Best moment: Deeply moving during times of quiet reflection.
What a Wonderful World
by Louis Armstrong
A celebration of life
Why it's meaningful: Reminds us to appreciate the world our loved one cherished.
Best moment: Uplifting choice for celebrating a life of gratitude.
You Raise Me Up
by Josh Groban
An uplifting tribute to someone who was a source of strength.
Why it's meaningful: Celebrates how loved ones lift us up and continue to inspire even after death.
Best moment: Powerful during tributes or as a recessional.
On Eagle
by Michael Joncas
A popular Catholic funeral hymn based on Psalm 91, about God
Why it's meaningful: Speaks of being carried on eagle
Best moment: Often chosen as a recessional or during the final commendation.
In the Garden
by Traditional Hymn
A beloved hymn about walking and talking with Jesus in a peaceful garden setting.
Why it's meaningful: Offers comfort through its imagery of personal communion with the divine.
Best moment: Often requested by elderly individuals for their own services.
The Old Rugged Cross
by George Bennard
A cherished hymn about sacrifice and salvation, beloved by older generations.
Why it's meaningful: Reflects the deep faith that sustained many through life\\
Best moment: Meaningful for those who held strong religious convictions.
10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)
by Matt Redman
A modern worship song about finding reasons to be grateful even in sorrow.
Why it's meaningful: Encourages thankfulness for a life lived while trusting in divine comfort.
Best moment: Uplifting during Christian services focused on celebration rather than mourning.
The Sound of Silence
by Simon & Garfunkel
A profound meditation on isolation, communication, and the spaces between words.
Why it's meaningful: Captures the profound silence left by someone\\
Best moment: Powerful during quiet reflection or meditation periods.
America the Beautiful
by Ray Charles
Ray Charles\\
Why it's meaningful: Combines patriotic pride with spiritual gratitude, honoring both country and faith together.
Best moment: Moving as a tribute to veterans who loved their country.
Abide With Me
by Traditional Hymn
A beloved hymn asking for divine presence through life\\
Why it's meaningful: Offers comfort through faith in God\\
Best moment: Traditional evening hymn often requested by the elderly.
A Song for Mama
by Boyz II Men
An R&B tribute to mothers and their unconditional love.
Why it's meaningful: Honors the sacrifices and endless love that mothers give.
Best moment: Perfect tribute from children to their mother.
Total Praise
by Richard Smallwood
Written while Smallwood cared for his mother with dementia, this powerful song based on Psalm 121 became an anthem of worship and surrender.
Why it's meaningful: Performed at Aretha Franklin\\
Best moment: Powerful during worship moments or as a solo performance.
His Eye Is on the Sparrow
by Ethel Waters
Inspired by a disabled couple\\
Why it's meaningful: The message of divine care and protection brings comfort, reminding us loved ones remain in God\\
Best moment: Beautiful during quiet reflection or meditation.
Order My Steps
by GMWA Women of Worship
This passionate prayer for divine guidance resonates deeply at funerals as families seek comfort in knowing their loved one walked in God\\
Why it's meaningful: Initially rejected before being embraced, the song\\
Best moment: Meaningful during worship or reflection time.
Never Would Have Made It
by Marvin Sapp
Written after the death of Sapp\\
Why it's meaningful: Its message of God\\
Best moment: Powerful testimony song during eulogies or tributes.
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
by Traditional Spiritual
This African American spiritual uses the biblical story of Elijah being taken to heaven in a chariot as a metaphor for death and spiritual liberation.
Why it's meaningful: For enslaved people, it represented hope for freedom—either escape or eternal freedom in heaven—a profound symbol of deliverance.
Best moment: Traditional choice for processional or recessional.
Because He Lives
by Bill and Gloria Gaither
Written during the turbulent late 1960s, this song finds hope in Christ\\
Why it's meaningful: Christ\\
Best moment: Hopeful choice for celebrating resurrection faith.
What a Friend We Have in Jesus
by Traditional Hymn
Written by Joseph Scriven to comfort his mother after his fiancée drowned, this hymn emphasizes Jesus as the ultimate friend who bears our sorrows.
Why it's meaningful: Scriven\\
Best moment: Comforting during quiet reflection or congregational singing.
Oh Happy Day
by Edwin Hawkins Singers
This joyful arrangement of an 18th-century hymn became a crossover hit, reaching #4 on Billboard\\
Why it's meaningful: Exuberant celebration of Jesus washing sins away brings uplifting, celebratory tone to homegoing services.
Best moment: Perfect for celebration of life and joyful homegoing services.
When I Get Where I\\
by Brad Paisley ft. Dolly Parton
A hopeful country duet about heaven\\
Why it's meaningful: While emotional about separation, the focus on eventual reunion and heaven\\
Best moment: Bittersweet choice balancing sorrow with hope of reunion.
Just a Closer Walk With Thee
by Traditional Gospel
Traditional gospel hymn often played by jazz bands in New Orleans funerals, combining spiritual yearning with musical celebration.
Why it's meaningful: Expresses desire for divine closeness during grief while honoring the New Orleans tradition of jazz funerals.
Best moment: Processional for New Orleans-style funerals or spiritual services.
His Eye Is On the Sparrow
by Mahalia Jackson
Classic gospel song about God\\
Why it's meaningful: If God watches over sparrows, how much more does He care for us - offering deep comfort in faith during grief.
Best moment: Christian funerals emphasizing faith in divine care and protection.
Summertime
by Ella Fitzgerald
Gershwin\\
Why it's meaningful: The gentle lullaby quality promises that life is easy now, offering comfort that the deceased is finally at rest.
Best moment: Beautiful for mothers, children, or anyone deserving peaceful rest.
El Malei Rachamim
by Traditional Jewish Prayer
Sacred Jewish memorial prayer meaning 'God Full of Mercy,' chanted at graveside.
Why it's meaningful: Traditional prayer requesting eternal peace for the departed soul.
Best moment: Essential at Jewish funerals, particularly during graveside service.
Go Rest High on That Mountain
by Vince Gill
A country gospel song about finding eternal rest after life
Why it's meaningful: Written after personal loss, it authentically captures grief and hope.
Best moment: Powerful choice for country music lovers with faith.
Ave Maria
by Franz Schubert
A classical prayer to Mary that transcends religious boundaries with its beauty.
Why it's meaningful: The melody alone can move hearts, offering comfort through pure beauty.
Best moment: Creates a sacred atmosphere during the service.
Be Not Afraid
by Bob Dufford
A beloved Catholic hymn based on Isaiah 43, offering comfort and hope.
Why it's meaningful: Reminds us that God is with us through death and into eternal life.
Best moment: Often sung during the entrance or as a closing hymn.
The Lord
by Traditional (Psalm 23)
The beloved Psalm 23 set to music, speaking of God
Why it's meaningful: Offers comfort through the imagery of God as a caring shepherd.
Best moment: Perfect during the psalm or as a meditation song.
We\\
by Vera Lynn
A wartime classic offering hope for reunion, beloved by the Greatest Generation.
Why it's meaningful: Carried many through wartime separations and speaks to meeting again in the afterlife.
Best moment: Particularly meaningful for WWII generation services.
Moonlight Serenade
by Glenn Miller
A big band era classic that evokes memories of romance and simpler times.
Why it's meaningful: Brings back memories of the swing era and wartime dances.
Best moment: Perfect for celebrating lives from the Greatest Generation.
I\\
by Billie Holiday
A wartime standard about remembering loved ones in familiar places.
Why it's meaningful: Promises that memories live on in everyday moments and places.
Best moment: Touching for services celebrating long lives and enduring love.
Going Home
by Celtic Woman
A gentle song about the journey home to peace and rest.
Why it's meaningful: Offers comfort with imagery of returning to a place of peace.
Best moment: Beautiful as a recessional or committal song.
Clair de Lune
by Claude Debussy
A gentle piano piece that evokes moonlight and peaceful reflection.
Why it's meaningful: Creates an atmosphere of quiet contemplation and beauty that transcends words.
Best moment: Perfect for moments of silent reflection or as guests arrive.
Morning Has Broken
by Cat Stevens
A celebration of new beginnings and the beauty of creation.
Why it's meaningful: Offers hope of renewal and the continuation of life\\
Best moment: Uplifting choice for celebrating a life lived in appreciation of simple joys.
We Fall Down
by Donnie McClurkin
This song acknowledges human frailty while celebrating the holiness of God, offering hope to mourners struggling with grief.
Why it's meaningful: The message that
Best moment: Uplifting during worship or as a congregational hymn.
Peace Be Still
by James Cleveland and The Angelic Choir
This 1963 recording became one of the best-selling gospel albums ever, selling over one million copies.
Why it's meaningful: The command to life\\
Best moment: Calming choice during reflection or meditation.
I Won\\
by Rev. Paul Jones
This powerful testimony song about enduring life\\
Why it's meaningful: Message of gratitude despite trials and refusal to complain even when
Best moment: Meaningful for honoring those who faced life with grace.
I Need Thee Every Hour
by Annie Hawks
Written by housewife Annie Hawks during a moment of spiritual nearness to God, this hymn expresses constant dependence on divine presence.
Why it's meaningful: Recognition of continual need for God provides comfort to those facing the hourly reality of grief.
Best moment: Tender choice during quiet meditation or prayer.
Nearer, My God, to Thee
by Traditional Hymn
Solemn hymn often played by jazz bands during the funeral procession, expressing spiritual longing for divine presence.
Why it's meaningful: Combines sacred yearning with jazz tradition, famously rumored to have been played as the Titanic sank.
Best moment: Processional for New Orleans funerals or traditional services.
Sentimental Journey
by Doris Day
Upbeat 1940s classic about returning home, filled with nostalgia and warmth.
Why it's meaningful: Celebrates the journey home to heaven and reunion with loved ones.
Best moment: Uplifting choice for celebrating a life well-lived.
Oseh Shalom
by Traditional Jewish Prayer
Prayer for peace that concludes the Mourner's Kaddish.
Why it's meaningful: Offers comfort through prayer for peace in the heavens and on earth.
Best moment: Sung at conclusion of Kaddish during shiva and memorial services.
Jerusalem of Gold (Yerushalayim Shel Zahav)
by Naomi Shemer
Beloved modern Israeli song celebrating Jerusalem's eternal beauty.
Why it's meaningful: Expresses deep connection to Jewish heritage and the land of Israel.
Best moment: Meaningful for Zionists or those with strong ties to Israel.
Supermarket Flowers
by Ed Sheeran
A tender, personal tribute to a mother
Why it's meaningful: The intimate details make universal feelings deeply personal.
Best moment: Especially poignant for the loss of a mother.
Pie Jesu
by Andrew Lloyd Webber
A beautiful Latin prayer meaning
Why it's meaningful: This sacred piece offers comfort through its gentle plea for eternal rest.
Best moment: Perfect for the meditation or offertory during a Catholic funeral Mass.
I Am the Bread of Life
by Suzanne Toolan
A Catholic hymn based on John 6, emphasizing eternal life through Christ.
Why it's meaningful: Offers hope of resurrection and eternal life in Christ.
Best moment: Particularly meaningful during the offertory or communion.
Tennessee Waltz
by Patti Page
A classic country waltz that evokes memories of simpler times and young love.
Why it's meaningful: Often brings back memories of dancing and romance from decades past.
Best moment: Perfect for celebrating lives from the 1950s-60s era.
Memory Lane
by Minnie Riperton
Minnie Riperton\\
Why it's meaningful: Riperton\\
Best moment: Reflection moments or photo tribute slideshows.
The Day Is Past and Gone
by Aretha Franklin
One of Aretha Franklin\\
Why it's meaningful: Aretha\\
Best moment: Christian services honoring women or celebrating gospel heritage.
Simple Gifts
by Traditional Shaker Hymn
Old Shaker melody about finding joy in simplicity and being in the right place at the right time.
Why it's meaningful: The gentle message that there\\
Best moment: For those who lived simply or valued spiritual authenticity.
Come Sunday
by Mahalia Jackson
Duke Ellington composition from his sacred concert, sung by Mahalia, blending jazz sophistication with gospel fervor.
Why it's meaningful: The meeting of jazz and gospel honors the sacred in the sophisticated, celebrating spiritual devotion with artistic excellence.
Best moment: Beautiful for Christian funerals honoring jazz and gospel traditions.
Wildwood Flower
by The Carter Family
Classic American folk song by the Carter Family about love, loss, and faded flowers, with gentle autoharp.
Why it's meaningful: The flower metaphor for fleeting beauty and love honors women\\
Best moment: Traditional choice for honoring women who loved American folk or country music.
Avinu Malkeinu
by Traditional Jewish Prayer
Powerful prayer meaning 'Our Father, Our King,' expressing hope and supplication.
Why it's meaningful: While traditionally sung during High Holidays, it has been requested at funerals for its profound spiritual message.
Best moment: Meaningful when specifically requested by the deceased or family.
Yigdal
by Traditional Jewish Hymn
Hebrew hymn based on Maimonides' thirteen principles of faith.
Why it's meaningful: Affirms core Jewish beliefs about God and eternal life.
Best moment: Appropriate during memorial services or yahrzeit observances.
Eli, Eli
by Traditional (Hannah Szenes)
Prayer-poem by Holocaust heroine Hannah Szenes: 'May these things never end.'
Why it's meaningful: Celebrates eternal beauty of nature and human spirit in face of mortality.
Best moment: Powerful for Holocaust survivors or those who valued nature and resilience.
Panis Angelicus
by César Franck
A sacred Latin hymn about the bread of angels becoming bread for mankind.
Why it's meaningful: This sacred piece connects earthly departure with heavenly communion.
Best moment: Traditionally sung during communion or as a meditation.
Ave Verum Corpus
by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Mozart
Why it's meaningful: The exquisite beauty of this piece elevates the spirit in grief.
Best moment: Creates a sacred atmosphere during communion or reflection.
In Paradisum
by Traditional Gregorian Chant
Ancient Latin chant meaning
Why it's meaningful: This ancient prayer asks angels to lead the departed into paradise.
Best moment: Traditionally sung during the final commendation and farewell.
Taps
by Traditional Military
The iconic bugle call played at military funerals, symbolizing final rest and peace.
Why it's meaningful: A deeply reverent tribute that honors military service and sacrifice.
Best moment: Traditionally played during the flag folding ceremony or final farewell.
When the Saints Go Marching In
by Louis Armstrong
The quintessential New Orleans jazz funeral song, starting somber then exploding into joyful celebration during the second line.
Why it's meaningful: Embodies New Orleans jazz funeral tradition - mourning the loss while celebrating the soul\\
Best moment: Recessional or second line celebration, especially for New Orleans funerals.
God Bless the U.S.A.
by Lee Greenwood
A patriotic anthem expressing love for America and gratitude for those who serve.
Why it's meaningful: Celebrates the values and freedoms that veterans fought to protect.
Best moment: Inspiring as a processional or during military honors.
Georgia on My Mind
by Ray Charles
Ray Charles\\
Why it's meaningful: The longing for Georgia represents nostalgia for home and better times, honoring those who cherished their roots.
Best moment: Perfect for Georgia natives or honoring homesick souls.
My Way
by Frank Sinatra
An anthem of living life on one
Why it's meaningful: Celebrates individuality and a life lived with conviction.
Best moment: Perfect for honoring someone with a strong, independent spirit.
Hurt
by Johnny Cash
Cash\\
Why it's meaningful: The raw emotion and reflection on mortality resonates deeply at end-of-life celebrations.
Best moment: Powerful for services honoring those who lived complex, full lives.
Some Gave All
by Billy Ray Cyrus
A heartbreaking reminder of how much soldiers give up to serve on the front lines.
Why it's meaningful: Recognizes the bravery of those willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
Best moment: Appropriate for honoring fallen soldiers and veterans.
Dance With My Father
by Luther Vandross
A tender reflection on memories of dancing with a beloved father.
Why it's meaningful: Celebrates the special bond between fathers and children.
Best moment: Touching tribute for fathers who were loving and present.
Battle Hymn of the Republic
by Traditional
A stirring American patriotic anthem with deep historical significance.
Why it's meaningful: Honors those who fought for freedom and justice throughout American history.
Best moment: Powerful choice for military and veteran services.
If Heaven Wasn\\
by Justin Moore
A country song imagining what you\\
Why it's meaningful: Captures the specific moments you miss with deceased loved ones - the everyday activities, the milestones they\\
Best moment: Touching for honoring the specific things you\\
Down by the Riverside
by Traditional Spiritual
Upbeat spiritual about laying down burdens by the riverside, frequently played during second line celebrations at New Orleans funerals.
Why it's meaningful: Celebrates laying down life\\
Best moment: Second line or recessional for celebration of life services.
People Get Ready
by The Impressions
Curtis Mayfield\\
Why it's meaningful: The gentle gospel message of boarding the train to glory offers comfort that the deceased has begun their spiritual journey.
Best moment: Perfect for Christian funerals with soul music appreciation.
The Parting Glass
by Traditional Irish Folk
Traditional Scottish and Irish farewell song, often sung at the end of gatherings as a final toast.
Why it's meaningful: The tradition of raising a final glass to the departed creates a communal ritual of remembrance and farewell.
Best moment: Perfect for Irish/Scottish funerals or as a closing song for gatherings.
Wayfaring Stranger
by Traditional Spiritual
Appalachian spiritual about a traveler going over Jordan to the promised land, with stark beauty.
Why it's meaningful: The image of being a stranger just passing through this world offers comfort that we\\
Best moment: Beautiful for spiritual services honoring Appalachian or American folk traditions.
Sweet Home Chicago
by Robert Johnson
Blues standard about returning home to Chicago, with upbeat tempo and celebration of place.
Why it's meaningful: The longing for home resonates with those who loved Chicago or the concept of finally going home.
Best moment: For Chicago natives or honoring the journey home.
I Am a Man of Constant Sorrow
by Traditional Folk
Traditional Appalachian folk song about a life of hardship and wandering, with high lonesome sound.
Why it's meaningful: Honors lives marked by struggle and sorrow, acknowledging that some people faced constant hardship.
Best moment: Honest choice for difficult lives or honoring Appalachian heritage.
Arlington
by Trace Adkins
A moving tribute to service members buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
Why it's meaningful: Honors the ultimate sacrifice while offering comfort to military families.
Best moment: Meaningful during services for combat veterans.
Eternal Father (Navy Hymn)
by Traditional Military Hymn
The official hymn of the U.S. Navy, asking for divine protection for those at sea.
Why it's meaningful: Particularly meaningful for naval veterans and their families.
Best moment: Often sung during Navy and Coast Guard funeral services.
Three Wooden Crosses
by Randy Travis
A story of lives intersecting and the legacy we leave behind.
Why it's meaningful: Reminds us that our influence lives on through the lives we touch.
Best moment: Meaningful for those who made a difference in their community.
Oh, Didn\\
by Traditional Jazz
Lively jazz funeral standard celebrating a life well-lived with all its adventures, traditionally played during the second line.
Why it's meaningful: Honors those who lived fully and boldly, rambling through life\\
Best moment: Second line celebration for those who lived adventurous lives.
God Is Love
by Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye\\
Why it's meaningful: Gaye\\
Best moment: For families of faith who appreciate soul music\\
Take Five
by Dave Brubeck Quartet
Iconic instrumental jazz in 5/4 time with Paul Desmond\\
Why it's meaningful: The sophisticated, laid-back jazz captures the essence of cool intellectualism and mid-century modern elegance.
Best moment: Perfect for jazz lovers or sophisticated, cerebral individuals.
Hoochie Coochie Man
by Muddy Waters
Muddy Waters\\
Why it's meaningful: Celebrates larger-than-life personalities and those who lived with mystique and confidence.
Best moment: For honoring bold characters or celebrating blues heritage.
O Death
by Ralph Stanley
Appalachian spiritual with Ralph Stanley\\
Why it's meaningful: The stark confrontation with Death acknowledges its power while expressing the human desire to resist.
Best moment: Haunting choice for traditional Appalachian funerals or stark honesty about death.
Man of Constant Sorrow
by The Stanley Brothers
The Stanley Brothers\\
Why it's meaningful: The bluegrass energy transforms sorrow into resilience, honoring those who kept moving despite pain.
Best moment: For honoring resilient souls who faced sorrow with Appalachian strength.
The White Cliffs of Dover
by Vera Lynn
WWII song promising hope and peace after the darkness of war.
Why it's meaningful: Symbolizes enduring hope and the belief in brighter days ahead.
Best moment: Particularly meaningful for veterans and those who lived through wartime.
In the Mood
by Glenn Miller
Iconic big band instrumental that defined the swing era.
Why it's meaningful: Celebrates the joy and energy of someone who loved life and music.
Best moment: Joyful choice for a celebration of life or reception.
Danny Boy
by Traditional Irish
An Irish ballad of farewell that has become a funeral standard.
Why it's meaningful: The haunting melody and words of parting resonate across cultures.
Best moment: Especially meaningful for those of Irish heritage.
Anchors Aweigh
by U.S. Naval Academy Band
The official song of the United States Navy, celebrating naval service and tradition.
Why it's meaningful: Honors the naval service and maritime heritage of sailors.
Best moment: Traditional for Navy veteran services.
Lead Me Home
by Johnny Lang featuring Blind Boys of Alabama
A soulful prayer for guidance on the journey home.
Why it's meaningful: Blends gospel tradition with modern soul to express the longing for eternal rest.
Best moment: Powerful for those with strong faith seeking comfort in spiritual traditions.
Shenandoah
by Traditional American Folk
Traditional American folk song about the Shenandoah River, often sung as a farewell song with longing melody.
Why it's meaningful: The flowing melody evokes journeys and farewells, making it perfect for honoring those who loved nature or American heritage.
Best moment: Reflection moments or honoring connection to American land and rivers.
Blue Moon of Kentucky
by Bill Monroe
Bluegrass blues waltz about saying goodbye under the blue moon, with Monroe\\
Why it's meaningful: The high, lonesome sound of bluegrass captures the ache of mountain farewell songs and rural American grief.
Best moment: Perfect for honoring Appalachian heritage or country music lovers.
The Streets of Laredo
by Traditional American Folk
American cowboy ballad about a dying cowboy giving final instructions, with mournful western melody.
Why it's meaningful: The cowboy\\
Best moment: Perfect for honoring western heritage or those who lived by cowboy values.
Selection Tips
For Grandmothers
- • Traditional hymns she sang or played at church
- • Songs about nurturing, family, and home
- • Music from her wedding era or youth
- • Lullabies if she was known for singing to grandchildren
- • Gospel or spiritual songs if faith was central
For Grandfathers
- • Songs about strength, legacy, and guidance
- • Music from his service years if a veteran
- • Country, folk, or big band from his generation
- • Songs reflecting his hobbies or passions
- • Patriotic songs if he valued service and country
Common Questions
What are the best funeral songs for grandparents?
The best funeral songs for grandparents include "In the Garden," "How Great Thou Art," "Amazing Grace," "Go Rest High on That Mountain," and "What a Wonderful World." These songs honor the wisdom, love, and legacy grandparents leave behind. Traditional hymns work well for older generations who valued faith, while classic songs from their era celebrate their life and times.
Should I choose different songs for grandma vs grandpa?
You can personalize songs based on your specific grandparent. For grandmothers, songs like "Wind Beneath My Wings" and "In the Garden" emphasize nurturing love. For grandfathers, "Go Rest High on That Mountain" and "My Way" celebrate strength and legacy. However, many songs work beautifully for both - choose what reflects their personality and faith.
What era of music should I choose for grandparents?
Consider music from your grandparents' formative years - typically 1940s-1960s for many current grandparents. Big band, classic country, traditional hymns, and crooners like Frank Sinatra often resonate. If they were music lovers, include their favorite artists. The Greatest Generation (born 1900s-1920s) typically preferred hymns and classics, while Baby Boomer grandparents (born 1940s-1960s) may appreciate rock, Motown, or folk music.
Are traditional hymns appropriate for grandparent funerals?
Yes, traditional hymns are often perfect for grandparent funerals, especially if faith was important to them. Songs like "Amazing Grace," "How Great Thou Art," "The Old Rugged Cross," and "It Is Well with My Soul" have comforted generations. These hymns reflect the faith and values many grandparents held dear and create a sense of continuity across generations.
How can I honor both grandparents if they passed at different times?
If honoring a grandparent whose spouse has already passed, include songs about reunion and eternal love like "Unchained Melody," "Unforgettable," or "When We All Get to Heaven." Acknowledge their long marriage and the joy of being reunited. You can also play songs that were meaningful to them as a couple, such as their wedding song or favorites they shared.
What songs celebrate a grandparent's role in the family?
Songs celebrating grandparents' family role include "Turn! Turn! Turn!" (cycles of generations), "The Circle Game" (passage of time), "Coat of Many Colors" (family legacy), and "Family Tree" (roots and heritage). For grandmothers specifically, "A Song for Mama" works beautifully. For grandfathers, "Leader of the Band" or "Dance with My Father" honor their guidance and wisdom.
Should funeral music for elderly grandparents be different?
For elderly grandparents (80+), consider their generation's musical preferences: WWII-era songs, traditional hymns, classic country, or big band. Keep the service familiar and comforting rather than modern. Songs like "We'll Meet Again," "I'll Be Seeing You," "Danny Boy," and traditional hymns honor their era and provide comfort through familiar melodies.
How many songs should be played at a grandparent's funeral?
Typically 3-5 songs for a grandparent's funeral: one for the processional (often a hymn like "Amazing Grace"), 1-2 during the service or eulogy (personal favorites or meaningful classics), and one for the recessional (uplifting like "What a Wonderful World"). If the service includes a slideshow or video tribute, add 1-2 background songs that reflect their life and personality.
Related Resources
Sarah Mitchell
Funeral Music CuratorFormer church music director with 15 years of experience helping families choose meaningful funeral music. Created YourFuneralSongs after losing her mother in 2019.