Losing a father is one of the hardest experiences in life. His presence, guidance, and love create memories that last forever. When words fail, poems for dad’s funeral can express the emotions that feel too overwhelming to say. A heartfelt poem serves as a tribute, honoring the love and wisdom he shared. His impact never fades, and the lessons he taught remain with those who loved him.
Choosing the right poem can bring comfort and allow family and friends to reflect on the bond they shared. Poems for dad’s funeral offer a moment to pause and remember his kindness, strength, and unwavering love. A well-chosen poem keeps his memory alive, turning grief into gratitude. During the service, it can help express emotions that may be too hard to say aloud. Below are twenty poems that can serve as a tribute to a beloved father.
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 sun 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 circling flight,
I am the soft star-shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die.
He Is Gone by David Harkins
You can shed tears that he is gone,
Or you can smile because he has lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back,
Or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left.
Your heart can be empty because you can’t see him,
Or you can be full of the love you shared.
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday,
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.
You can remember him and only that he is gone,
Or you can cherish his memory and let it live on.
You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back,
Or you can do what he would want: smile, open your eyes, love, and go on.
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?
Miss me a little, but not too long,
And not with your head bowed low.
Remember the love that once we shared,
Miss me, but let me go.
For this is a journey we all must take,
And each must go alone.
It’s all a part of the Master’s plan,
A step on the road to home.
When you are lonely and sick at heart,
Go to the friends we know.
Laugh at all the things we used to do,
Miss me, but let me go.
A Father’s Love – Unknown
A father’s love is never gone,
Though he may leave, he still lives on.
In every lesson that he taught,
In every battle that he fought.
His laughter lingers in the air,
His kindness felt most everywhere.
Though tears may fall and hearts may ache,
His love remains, it does not break.
The Measure of a Man – Unknown
Not—how did he die? But—how did he live?
Not—what did he gain? But—what did he give?
These are the units to measure the worth
Of a man as a man, regardless of birth.
Not—what was his church? Nor—what was his creed?
But—had he befriended those really in need?
Not—what did the sketch in the newspaper say?
But—how many were sorry when he passed away?
As We Look Back –Unknown
As we look back over time,
We find ourselves wondering…
Did we remember to thank you enough
For all you have done for us?
For the love you freely gave,
The lessons you quietly taught,
The patience you showed in our struggles,
And the strength you lent when we were weak.
For all the times you stood beside us,
Guiding us through uncertain days,
Cheering our triumphs, soothing our sorrows,
And reminding us that we were never alone.
Did we thank you for your kindness,
For the sacrifices made unseen,
For the warmth of your unwavering presence,
And the comfort of your steady embrace?
If words were ever left unspoken,
If gratitude was ever left unsaid,
Know that in our hearts, today and always,
Your love and wisdom will never fade.
As we look back, we see more clearly—
You were the light along our way.
And though time may pass and seasons change,
Our love and thanks will always remain.
Remembering a Father Through Poetry
Saying goodbye to a father is never easy, but poems for dad’s funeral offer a way to honor his love, strength, and the lessons he shared. A heartfelt poem helps express emotions that words alone cannot capture, bringing comfort to those left behind. Poems for dad’s funeral remind us that his presence still lingers in the wisdom he passed down, the memories he created, and the love that remains. Though he may no longer be physically here, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who cherished him, offering guidance and warmth in every cherished memory.
For more inspiration on honoring a loved one, visit this guide on writing a heartfelt eulogy.
