40 of The Best Funeral Songs for Mom

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It is incredible hard to have to choose the best funeral songs for mom. Music was a huge part of my mom’s life. From the moment my mother woke up in the morning to the moment she went to bed, she was playing some type of music. My mum had 100s of vinyls, which I still have & her record player from when she was a teenager! When my mother died I found picking funeral songs for her funeral one of the hardest aspects of the service. How do you summarise your mothers life into just one or two songs? I wanted to find a song that reflected her life, her spirit, her personality and her humour. It took me ages to settle on two songs which I felt commemorated her life and summed her up as a person.

How to Choose the Perfect Funeral Song for a Mother’s Funeral

When it came to picking songs for my mother’s funeral I focused on two things. The lyrics and the tone.

Choosing the perfect song for your mother’s funeral is a deeply personal decision. Questions you could ask to find the right songs could be:

What music did your mother enjoy listening to most?

Maybe it was gospel, rock or pop. Picking a genre that your mother listened to regularly helps to inject her personality into the service. When we hear certain music it often brings back specific memories – that time we were on holiday, that time we had a road trip, that time mom was dancing in the kitchen. I am sure that there is a piece of music that when you hear it, it makes you think of you mom. That song could be the perfect choice for your mother’s funeral.

Religious or Spiritual Factors When Picking Funeral Songs For Mom

Your mother may have been a church goer or a very spiritual person. She may have wanted a gospel or spiritual song or hymn to be played at her funeral. When choosing funeral songs for mom it is important to consider her beliefs and preferences. If you know that your mom would of wanted a hymn or spiritual song at her funeral it is important to pick a song that reflects her wishes.

Lyrical Meaning Behind The Funeral Songs for Mom

Songs are poetic and their lyrics can evoke certain emotions. A song which always summaried my mother as a person was Rhiannon by Fleetwood Mac. Rhiannon isn’t a song you would associate with funerals but it was a song I associated with my mom. The lyrics brought to life everything my mother was as a person – care free, in touch with nature a love for life etc

When choosing funeral songs for moms funeral service you do not have to be constrained to “what is the norm”. There may be a funeral song that lyrically summarises your mom as a person, this can be the perfect song for your mom’s funeral.

As you explore options for mother’s funeral songs, talk with family members to gather suggestions and find something truly meaningful. Above all, choose a song that feels right to you, it doesn’t have to be traditional, only heartfelt.

Classic Funeral Songs for Mom

1. Wind Beneath My Wings – Bette Midler

This song beautifully captures the essence of a mother’s quiet strength. It tells the story of someone who stood in the background, never seeking praise, but whose presence lifted others higher. At a mother’s funeral, it becomes a tribute to all the unseen sacrifices, the whispered encouragements, and the unwavering emotional support she gave.

2. Because You Loved Me – Celine Dion

This emotional ballad is a powerful thank-you note in song form. It speaks directly to the influence a mother has on her children’s confidence and courage. With lines like “You were my strength when I was weak,” it highlights the countless ways moms show up, even when no one notices. The song suits a funeral because it doesn’t just mourn; it celebrates how a mother’s love shaped who we are.

3. You Raise Me Up – Josh Groban

Josh Groban’s powerful vocals make this song ideal for a moment of reflection and deep remembrance. The lyrics tell of someone whose steady presence helped others face mountains and walk on stormy seas, a perfect metaphor for the way mothers encourage resilience and faith. It’s a soaring tribute to a mother who was always there in the hard times, who offered strength when it felt like none remained.

4. A Song for Mama – Boyz II Men

Few songs articulate the raw emotion between a mother and her children like this one. The lyrics are personal, intimate, and specific “Mama, Mama you know I love you” and they speak directly to the listener’s heart. This song is a top choice for those who want to express just how deeply loved and appreciated their mother was. It captures the way mothers nurture, protect, and love unconditionally.

5. I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston

While often associated with romantic partings, this ballad takes on a new depth when dedicated to a mother. Its lyrics speak of parting with love, of deep respect and eternal gratitude. “I hope life treats you kind…” becomes a gentle farewell, filled with dignity and grace. At a funeral, it allows mourners to acknowledge their sorrow while wrapping it in beauty and reverence.

Contemporary Funeral Songs for Mom

6. Supermarket Flowers – Ed Sheeran

This gentle ballad was written in honor of Ed Sheeran’s grandmother, but its themes speak clearly to anyone mourning a mother. The lyrics describe the tender rituals of grief, the emptying of her room, the little things she left behind, the sense that everything reminds you of her. It’s not grandiose; it’s quietly devastating in its honesty. “You were an angel in the shape of my mom” is one of the most poignant lines ever written about maternal love. This song captures the idea that mothers live on in our gestures, our habits, our hearts. It’s especially touching for children who saw their mom as the family’s quiet glue. The soft piano and acoustic guitar bring a sense of intimacy to the funeral setting, offering tears and comfort in equal measure. It’s a perfect pick for a modern tribute that values authenticity and tenderness.

7. Slipping Through My Fingers – ABBA

This hauntingly beautiful song reflects on the bittersweet passage of time between a mother and her child. It’s told from a parent’s perspective, watching their child grow up too fast, missing the moments they didn’t know were the last. The emotion it evokes is a deep ache of time that can’t be reclaimed, of days that passed quietly but now loom large in memory. The nostalgic melody paired with the reflective lyrics makes it incredibly effective at a funeral, especially for those looking back with a mixture of gratitude and longing.

8. Heaven’s Now My Home – Libby Allen

This lesser-known song is a soft, spiritual ballad that imagines the voice of the departed mother reassuring her family. It offers comfort in the idea that while she may be gone from this world, she has found peace and rest in the next. The lyrics are deeply personal, speaking of her continued presence in spirit, and the loving encouragement she still offers from beyond. It’s a song that brings peace to a service, especially when faith is part of the family’s grieving process.

9. If I Die Young – The Band Perry

Though written from a young person’s perspective, the themes of premature loss and poetic reflection resonate in many situations. This song is especially touching when a mother has passed unexpectedly or far too soon. The imagery of “lay me down on a bed of roses” and “the sharp knife of a short life” speaks volumes about the ache of untimely loss. The delicate mandolin and soft vocals add a raw, almost sacred atmosphere. It’s not just a song about death; it’s about the beauty of a life, no matter how short, and the grief of those left behind.

10. Dancing in the Sky – Dani and Lizzy

This contemporary ballad gained popularity for its relatable, heartfelt depiction of wondering what life is like in Heaven. It’s often chosen by those who want to express both their loss and their hope. The lyrics ask sincere, almost childlike questions: “Are you dancing in the sky? Are your days filled with love and light?” These words strike a chord for anyone longing to believe their mother is in a peaceful, joyful place.

Religious Songs for a Faith-Based Songs

11. Amazing Grace – Traditional

There is perhaps no hymn more universally recognized or emotionally powerful than “Amazing Grace.” This spiritual hymn has brought solace to grieving hearts for centuries. Its message of redemption, forgiveness, and hope speaks directly to the soul, especially during a time of loss. When played at a mother’s funeral, it becomes a testament to her grace, humility, and faith. The line “I once was lost, but now am found” takes on new meaning, symbolizing both her spiritual journey and the comfort of her eternal peace.

12. Go Rest High on That Mountain – Vince Gill

This country gospel classic was written as a heartfelt farewell to someone who fought bravely through life’s trials. At a mother’s funeral, it takes on deep emotional weight. The lyrics “Go rest high on that mountain, Son, your work on earth is done” easily apply to a devoted mother whose life was spent in service to her family and faith.

13. I Can Only Imagine – MercyMe

This contemporary Christian hit captures the awe and wonder of imagining what Heaven might be like. The song invites listeners to think about their loved one’s arrival in paradise, what she must be seeing, feeling, and experiencing in the presence of the Divine. “Will I dance for you, Jesus, or in awe of You be still?” These lyrics give shape to the spiritual journey we hope our mothers are on. For a woman of faith, “I Can Only Imagine” offers the ultimate reassurance that she is now in a place of peace, surrounded by light.

14. How Great Thou Art – Carrie Underwood version

This beloved hymn is already powerful in its original form, but Carrie Underwood’s rendition brings an added emotional richness that is hard to match. Her voice, trembling with reverence, rises and falls with conviction, making each word feel like a prayer. When sung at a mother’s funeral, it celebrates the Creator she trusted throughout her life. The lyrics exalt the beauty of God’s world and His ultimate sovereignty, offering comfort in the knowledge that she is now in His hands. “Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee” becomes a communal moment of praise and reflection, reminding everyone of the eternal bond between life, death, and grace.

15. Precious Lord, Take My Hand – Mahalia Jackson

This soul-stirring hymn, immortalized by Mahalia Jackson, is a plea for divine guidance during times of grief and uncertainty. It’s especially poignant when saying goodbye to a mother whose life was guided by prayer and quiet strength. “Lead me on, let me stand, I am tired, I am weak, I am worn” these words speak to every mourner’s heart, but they also echo the strength and surrender of the woman being remembered.

Country Songs That Speak from the Heart

16. Mama’s Song – Carrie Underwood

This tender ballad is a daughter’s love letter to her mother, filled with gratitude, reassurance, and love. In “Mama’s Song,” Carrie Underwood speaks from the perspective of a woman moving into a new chapter of life while acknowledging all that her mother has given her. At a funeral, the lyrics take on a reflective tone, no longer a goodbye from a bride to her mother, but a farewell from a child to the woman who raised her. The lines “You taught me everything I know / Can’t imagine needing someone so” capture the unshakable bond between mother and child. It’s especially meaningful when played by daughters honoring their mom’s memory.

17. Angels Among Us – Alabama

This heartfelt classic is a beautiful tribute to the everyday angels who walk beside us and for many, that angel was their mother. “Angels Among Us” speaks of people who make a profound difference in our lives through love, kindness, and grace. The lyrics, “They wear so many faces, show up in the strangest places,” evoke the quiet yet powerful presence of a mother who always seemed to appear just when needed.

18. There You’ll Be – Faith Hill

In this soaring tribute to enduring love, Faith Hill captures what it means to carry someone’s memory with you always. The lyrics, “In my dreams, I’ll always see you soar above the sky,” transform this song into a loving farewell to a mother who shaped your entire life. It speaks to the influence she had, the lessons she taught, and the emotional support she gave that now lives on within you.

19. If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away – Justin Moore

This song resonates deeply with anyone who has longed for just one more moment with someone they’ve lost. In “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away,” Justin Moore imagines the bittersweet joy of spending a single afternoon in Heaven, talking to loved ones. When chosen for a mother’s funeral, the song becomes incredibly personal, expressing the ache to sit with her one more time, hear her advice, or feel her comforting presence. The lyrics paint vivid scenes, simple yet deeply emotional: fishing, sharing stories, laughing again. It’s a gentle country ballad full of longing, reflection, and spiritual hope.

20. I Hope You Dance – Lee Ann Womack

Though originally written as a mother’s blessing to her child, “I Hope You Dance” becomes a powerful reversal when played at a funeral. It becomes a child’s tribute to a mother who lived with grace, courage, and compassion. The lyrics, “I hope you never lose your sense of wonder,” turn into a reflection of how she lived, open-hearted, full of life, and inspiring everyone around her. The uplifting tone of the melody contrasts beautifully with the solemnity of the moment, creating a service that feels more like a celebration of life than an expression of loss.

Funeral Songs For Moms Funeral From Son

21. Simple Man – Lynyrd Skynyrd

“Simple Man” stands as one of the most emotionally resonant rock ballads about a son to dedicate to his mother. The lyrics directly echo a mother’s advice to her child, guiding him to live simply, stay humble, and seek what truly matters in life. It’s more than just a song; it’s a spiritual heirloom passed down in musical form.

22. Humble and Kind – Tim McGraw

“Humble and Kind” is a modern country classic that distills a mother’s hopes for her child into a poetic farewell. From its first line, the song reads like a handwritten letter from a mom to son, filled with the values she worked tirelessly to instill: humility, patience, generosity, and grace.

The lyrics emphasize important moments, like saying please and thank you, visiting your grandparents and staying grounded even when life becomes successful. For a son grieving the loss of his mother, this song is a soft-spoken reminder of everything she stood for.

23. Let It Be – The Beatles

Written by Paul McCartney after a dream about his late mother, “Let It Be” has an almost spiritual weight when chosen for a mother’s funeral. The phrase “Mother Mary comes to me” resonates deeply for sons who feel their mother’s quiet voice guiding them even after her passing.

It’s a song of comfort, of surrender, and of peace. Unlike some funeral tracks that are steeped in sorrow, “Let It Be” offers a hopeful message that even in grief, there is clarity and light to be found. This is particularly comforting for sons who may feel lost in the wake of loss.

24. The Living Years – Mike + The Mechanics

“The Living Years” is a powerful, soul-stirring tribute to relationships that may not have had time for full closure. Though originally written about a father, its message resonates equally well for a mother-son bond, especially if that relationship was complicated, unspoken, or full of mutual growth.

The lyrics speak of regret, missed conversations, and the importance of saying what we feel while we still can. For a son mourning the loss of his mother, this song opens the space to grieve what was said and what wasn’t. It invites honesty and vulnerability.

What makes this song particularly poignant is its perspective: it’s written from the view of someone left behind, wishing they had done more. But in doing so, it becomes healing, reminding all who hear it that even in silence, love remains.

25. You’ll Be in My Heart – Phil Collins

“You’ll Be in My Heart” is an enduring, universal expression of unconditional love — and although it was originally written from a parent to a child, it takes on even deeper meaning when sung in reverse: from son to mother.

This song assures the listener that love transcends distance, time, and even death. “You’ll be in my heart, from this day on, now and forever more” is a sentiment that rings achingly true at a funeral, offering comfort to all who feel the sharp absence of a mother’s presence.

This song is ideal for sons who felt protected, nurtured, and deeply loved by their mothers. It’s a reminder that though she may no longer be here physically, she lives on in every heartbeat, every memory, every life moment.

Funeral Songs for Mom from Daughter

A mother and daughter share a bond unlike any other — layered with tenderness, deep understanding, shared wisdom, and often, the rhythms of a mirrored life. When a daughter loses her mother, it’s more than a loss; it’s the parting of best friends, teachers, confidants, and lifelong protectors. These carefully chosen songs capture the heartache, reverence, and lasting connection that remain long after a mother is gone.

26. You Can Close Your Eyes – James Taylor

Though not traditionally considered a funeral song, it’s incredibly meaningful when sung or chosen by a daughter. The lyrics speak softly of peace, letting go, and a deep, unbreakable love. Lines like “I can’t sing the blues anymore, but I can sing this song / And you can sing this song when I’m gone” offer both comfort and a quiet promise of remembrance.

What makes it unique is its simplicity and sincerity, it’s not dramatic or overused, but rather intimate, like a personal farewell between two souls forever connected. It’s especially powerful if you’re looking for something that feels honest, gentle, and full of love. Among funeral songs for mom, this one stands out for its purity and the way it speaks directly from daughter to mother.

27. Because You Loved Me – Celine Dion

“Because You Loved Me” is a timeless anthem of maternal love. It speaks directly from daughter to mother, expressing the profound impact her support and guidance had in shaping every success, every recovery, every moment of courage.

The opening lines “For all those times you stood by me / For all the truth that you made me see” are poetic acknowledgments of the countless invisible ways a mother builds her child’s life. Celine Dion’s voice adds power to vulnerability, giving daughters a safe space to grieve and to honor.

This song captures the feeling of being held together by your mother’s love of knowing that no matter what life brought, she was the anchor, the cheerleader, and the shelter. In the wake of loss, this becomes a deep and aching truth, and the song honors that with both strength and softness.

28. In the Arms of an Angel – Sarah McLachlan

“In the Arms of an Angel” captures the fragile, heart-wrenching sorrow of loss with exquisite beauty. Its quiet piano and haunting vocals provide a solemn atmosphere for reflection, especially for daughters who feel the weight of deep grief after their mother’s passing.

The lyrics evoke a sense of release — that the loved one is now at peace, no longer burdened by pain, illness, or suffering. “You’re in the arms of the angel / May you find some comfort here” becomes a balm for the raw places in a daughter’s heart.

This song allows grief to breathe. It doesn’t rush or overwhelm; it moves slowly, giving space to feel the absence, the stillness, and the love that lingers. It’s a particularly meaningful choice for memorials where the relationship was profoundly close and the loss feels unbearable.

This track is perfect for playing during a slideshow of treasured moments or even as background music during a candle-lighting ceremony. It invites a sense of reverence that’s hard to capture in words.

29. Mama – Il Divo

“Mama” by Il Divo is a stirring classical crossover ballad that elevates maternal love to operatic heights. Sung with sweeping orchestral backing and rich harmonies, it encapsulates the gratitude and emotional depth of a daughter bidding farewell to her beloved mother.

The lyrics speak directly to a lifetime of love, mistakes, forgiveness, and memories. “Mama, thank you for who I am / Thank you for all the things I’m not” is a humbling and vulnerable admission for a daughter recognizing that her mother loved her through all seasons, even when she was difficult, even when she didn’t say thank you enough.

“Mama” is well-suited to formal memorial services, especially those held in churches or concert-style halls. It’s also ideal for daughters who want to express a deep, emotional farewell with dramatic flair and emotional honesty.

30. A Mother’s Prayer – Celine Dion

Written after the loss of his own grandmother, Ed Sheeran’s “Supermarket Flowers” has become a modern-day elegy that feels deeply personal, particularly from a child to a mother. Its quiet, acoustic intimacy makes it ideal for a daughter saying goodbye to the woman who raised her, shaped her, and meant the world to her.

The song opens with familiar, everyday images — tissues by the bed, cups of tea, supermarket flowers — grounding the listener in the real-life moments that make up a life and its sudden absence. These small details make the loss feel achingly real.

“Supermarket Flowers” doesn’t shy away from grief. It leans into it with honesty and tenderness, offering daughters a safe, raw way to express their sadness. But it also contains a quiet grace — a sense that the departed has gone home, that angels welcomed her with open arms.

The lyrics, “So I’ll sing Hallelujah / You were an angel in the shape of my mum,” bring both comfort and tears. It’s an acknowledgement that mothers are often our everyday angels — and that even in death, their love remains our shelter.

The stripped-back instrumentation allows the words to shine. It’s perfect for a moment of silence or a candle-lighting, letting mourners reflect without distraction.

For daughters who saw their mother as their closest friend, their biggest supporter, and their soft place to fall — this song says it all, without needing explanation.

It reminds us that love doesn’t leave with the person. It stays in the details, the memories, and in the legacy a mother leaves behind.

Rock Funeral Songs for Mom

31. Ozzy Osbourne – Mama I’m Coming Home

This song is a powerful and emotional tribute that really hits home when saying goodbye to a mother. Ozzy’s voice carries raw emotion as he sings about returning to the one person who always offered unconditional love—his mom. It’s not your typical funeral song, but that’s what makes it stand out. If your mom was someone who loved rock music or had a strong, no-nonsense spirit, this could be a deeply meaningful way to honor her. Among funeral songs for mom, it’s perfect for showing that even when life pulls us away, we always find our way back to her in the end.

32. In Loving Memory – Alter Bridge

This song speaks directly to the heartbreak of losing someone you leaned on every day. It feels like a letter written from the heart to a mother who meant everything. The lyrics talk about gratitude, love, and the pain of not having her around anymore. It’s a strong choice if you want to express just how much your mom helped shape your life. As one of the more emotional funeral songs for mom, it’s ideal for those who want to show just how deeply they loved and still miss her.

33. Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd

“Wish You Were Here” captures that empty feeling we all have when someone important is missing. It’s a gentle and thoughtful song that expresses longing in a way that feels both personal and universal. Playing this at your mom’s funeral can reflect the simple truth, you just wish she was still here. It’s one of those funeral songs for mom that speaks quietly but leaves a lasting impact. The message is clear, heartfelt, and deeply relatable.

34. Rhiannon – Stevie Nicks

While “Rhiannon” isn’t written about a mother specifically, its dreamy, mystical vibe can be a beautiful tribute for a mom who had a strong, free-spirited personality. Stevie Nicks brings a sense of mystery and grace to the song, and it can symbolize a mother who was unique, powerful, or deeply connected to nature or spirituality. It’s a meaningful pick if your mom was someone who didn’t follow the crowd. Among funeral songs for mom, this one celebrates individuality and presence in a subtle but unforgettable way.

35. Rise – Eddie Vedder

“Rise” is a quiet, soulful song about strength, growth, and moving forward. It’s a good choice for honoring a mother who always encouraged you to keep going no matter what life threw your way. The lyrics suggest that even in grief, there’s a path to healing and hope. It’s not heavy-handed, just sincere and thoughtful. If you’re looking for funeral songs for mom that inspire resilience while still honoring her memory, this is a strong option.

36. Mother – Pink Floyd

This song is an honest, sometimes haunting look at the complicated relationship between a child and their mother. It’s especially powerful if your bond had layers, love, protection, maybe even struggle. “Mother” doesn’t sugarcoat things, which can make it incredibly real and moving. If your mom was someone who fiercely protected you or if your connection had depth and complexity, this song might speak to your experience. It’s one of the more raw and reflective funeral songs for mom, and that authenticity can make it unforgettable.

Soul & Gospel Funeral Songs for Mom

35. Mama Liked The Roses – Elvis Presley

This heartfelt song by Elvis Presley is a touching tribute that captures the simple, beautiful things a mother often cherished, like roses and quiet moments. With its tender lyrics and soft melody, “Mama Liked The Roses” expresses love, gratitude, and remembrance. It’s a fitting choice for those who want to reflect on a mother’s gentle spirit and the lasting impact she had. As one of the more personal funeral songs for mom, it resonates deeply with families remembering a warm and nurturing presence.

36. Peace In The Valley – Elvis Presley

“Peace In The Valley” offers a message of hope, comfort, and spiritual rest. Elvis Presley’s soulful rendition brings a calming energy that feels like a final blessing for a beloved mother. The lyrics speak of finding peace after hardship, something many families find solace in during times of grief. This makes it one of the most comforting funeral songs for mom, especially if she was a woman of faith or someone who valued serenity and grace.

37. Say A Little Prayer For You – Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin’s powerful and emotional voice transforms this song into more than just a song, it becomes a heartfelt prayer. Choosing this song for a mother’s funeral highlights the everyday love and thoughtfulness we often feel for our moms, even after they’re gone. It’s an upbeat yet moving tribute that reminds everyone of the little acts of devotion that define motherhood. Among funeral songs for mom, it stands out for its mix of soul, love, and enduring connection.

38. I’ll Fly Away – Gillian Welch

This traditional hymn, beautifully reimagined by Gillian Welch, offers an uplifting view of passing on, a peaceful journey to the next life. Its gentle rhythm and hopeful lyrics make it ideal for those who want to celebrate a mother’s spiritual transition rather than dwell solely on loss. As one of the more hopeful funeral songs for mom, “I’ll Fly Away” speaks to faith, reunion, and the idea that goodbye is not forever.

39. Stand By Me – Ben E King

“Stand By Me” is a classic that captures loyalty, love, and unwavering presence. While not originally written for funerals, its message takes on a deeper meaning when honoring a mother who was always there. The song’s warm tone and emotional core make it a powerful way to reflect on the strength and support she gave throughout life. As one of the more soulful funeral songs for mom, it honors the bond that never truly ends.

40. A Change Is Gonna Come – Sam Cooke

This iconic song by Sam Cooke speaks of struggle, transformation, and hope. While it carries historical weight, its themes also translate beautifully into a funeral setting—especially for a mother who endured life’s challenges with grace and strength. Its soulful delivery and moving lyrics can honor her resilience and the legacy she leaves behind. When looking for meaningful funeral songs for mom, this track offers both depth and inspiration.

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