Discover the Top 50 Funeral Hymns for a Meaningful Farewell

In times of grief, selecting the right funeral hymn can provide comfort and solace. Our list of the top 50 funeral hymns covers a wide spectrum of themes and emotions, offering a suitable choice for various situations. Whether you are seeking traditional hymns, modern options, uplifting and celebratory tunes, or Christian hymns, you'll find a fitting selection below.

Traditional Funeral Hymns:

1. "Amazing Grace" - A testament to God's grace and mercy, this hymn is both hopeful and celebratory. It's a common choice across the UK.

   
   

2. "Abide With Me" - A plea for God's presence during times of sadness and loss, this hymn written by Henry Francis Lyte is often used as a funeral entrance hymn.

   
   

3. "Ave Maria" - A 17th-century prayer to the Virgin Mary, symbolizing maternal love and commonly chosen at funerals for mothers and grandmothers.

   
   

4. "How Great Thou Art" - A hymn reflecting on the inspiring and comforting power of God, expressing gratitude for a life well-lived.

   
   

5. "Lead Kindly Light" - Written by John Henry Newman, this hymn seeks guidance and protection in times of darkness and sorrow.

   
   

6. "The Clouds' Veil" - A choice for Irish funeral hymns, this hymn reflects on the temporary nature of life and the promise of eternal peace.

   
   

7. "Going Home" - Also known as "Will There Be Any Stars in My Crown?", this hymn reminds us of the ultimate destination of the soul after death and the hope of reuniting with loved ones.

   
   

8. "Ar Hyd y Nos" (All Through the Night) - A lullaby and a source of comfort for Welsh funerals, emphasizing the enduring presence of those who have passed.

   
   

9. "Blessed Assurance" - A hymn by Fanny J. Crosby, reminding us of the certainty of God's love and the hope of eternal life, particularly popular among Methodists.

   
   

10. "Be Still, My Soul" - A classic hymn offering peace and comfort through trust in God, often chosen for funerals.

    
    

11. "The Lord's My Shepherd" (Psalm 23) - Based on Psalm 23, this hymn spreads a message of hope and trust in God, familiar to many.

    
    

12. "The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, is Ended" - Written by John Ellerton, this hymn is popular in Christian funeral services all across the UK.

    
    

13. "Lead, Kindly Light" - A cherished hymn by John Henry Newman, offering messages of faith, hope, and trust in God.

    
    

14. "Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer" - A powerful message of faith and trust in God, resonating with people of all ages and backgrounds.

    
    

15. "The Old Rugged Cross" - A hymn with a strong message of hope and redemption through Christ's sacrifice on the cross.

    
    

16. 16. "On Eagles' Wings" - A comforting hymn by Michael Joncas, emphasizing God's love and protection.

Modern Funeral Hymns:

1. "In Paradise" - Written by Bob Hurd, this hymn offers hope and comfort during times of loss.

   
   

2. "In Christ Alone" - A modern hymn celebrating faith in Jesus and the hope he provides, suitable for Christian funeral services.

   
   

3. "Shine Jesus Shine" - A contemporary hymn by Graham Kendrick, illuminating the darkness with the light of Jesus.

   
   

4. "I Watch the Sunrise" - A hymn by John Glynn, offering a message of peace and reflection even in sadness.

   
   

5. "Lord of the Dance" - Set to the traditional Shaker tune "Simple Gifts," this hymn is popular at Christian funeral services in the UK.

   
   

6. "Love Divine All Loves Excelling" - A hymn with a message about finding salvation and peace through God's love.

   
   

7. "Make Me a Channel of Your Peace" - Written by Sebastian Temple, this hymn is often chosen for funerals of those who served in the armed forces.

   
   

8. "I Watch The Sunrise" - A folk-style song often chosen for Anglican funeral services, bringing comfort and reflection.

   
   

9. "The Servant King" - A hymn by Graham Kendrick, suitable for Christian funerals and communion services.

   
   

10. "Going Home" - A modern and uplifting hymn adapted from Dvorak's Symphony No. 9, providing a contemporary touch to traditional hymns.

    
    

11. "Be Not Afraid" - Written by Bob Dufford, a Jesuit priest, offering messages of encouragement, hope, and reassurance.

    
    

12. "Death is Only a Dream" - A hymn with a mix of traditional and modern elements, offering a comforting message.

    
    

13. "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms" - A moving hymn surrendering to God's mercy and forgiveness.

    
    

14. "I Know That My Redeemer Lives" - A hymn with a modern and uplifting version, emphasizing faith and trust in God's enduring presence.

    
    

15. "All Things Bright and Beautiful" - A celebration of the beauty and wonder of creation, often sung at various ceremonies.

    
    

Uplifting and Celebratory Funeral Hymns:

1. "Jerusalem" - A hymn of hope for a better life in heaven, commonly sung at sporting events.

   
   

2. "I Vow to Thee, My Country" - A tribute to England and the love that binds people together, suitable for patriotic individuals.

   
   

3. "Morning Has Broken" - A folk song celebrating the beauty of life and new beginnings even in times of loss.

   
   

4. "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" - A hymn of gratitude and praise for the goodness of God's creation.

   
   

5. "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty" - An expression of praise and thanksgiving to God, often used as a recessional hymn.

   
   

6. "I'll Fly Away" - An upbeat hymn about the promise of eternal life and the joy of reuniting with loved ones.

   
   

7. "Lord Of All Hopefulness" - An Irish traditional-style hymn asking for God's presence, suitable for those remembered as loyal and kind.

   
   

8. "Never Can Say Goodbye" by Gloria Gaynor - A non-religious song that celebrates the life of a loved one and can connect with a diverse audience.

   
   

9. "Alleluia, Sing to Jesus!" - A Christian hymn that is often sung during Easter and other celebratory events, perfect for remembering the best of a loved one.

   
   

10. "O God Our Help In Ages Past" - Expressing the shortness of life but countering it with the infinite love and care of God.

    
    

Christian Funeral Hymns:

1. "The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, Has Ended" - A hymn often sung at the end of the day or a life, reassuring in times of grief.

   
   

2. "Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise" - A hymn celebrating God's power and wisdom, providing comfort through its lyrics about nature and Christianity.

   
   

3. "In Heavenly Love Abiding" - A hymn across Christian denominations, comforting attendees with trust and confidence in God's care.

   
   

4. "Be Thou My Vision" - An ancient Irish hymn with poetic language and a beautiful melody, inspiring devotion and trust in God.

   
   

5. "We cannot care for you the way we wanted" - A moving and comforting choice for services commemorating the loss of a child.

   
   

6. "Dear Lord and Father of Mankind" - A hymn with a stirring tune, fitting for both celebratory and funeral events.

   
   

7. "It is Well with My Soul" - Expressing deep love and faith in God's goodness even in challenging times.

   
   

8. "Holy, Holy, Holy" - Celebrating the mystery of the Trinity and God's greatness, providing a strong foundation for Christian faith.

   
   

9. "Great is Thy Faithfulness" - A hymn that praises God's unchanging nature and His unfailing love and compassion, even during times of loss.

These funeral hymns offer a wide range of themes and emotions to help you create a meaningful farewell for your loved one. Whether you're seeking traditional, modern, uplifting, or Christian hymns, this list provides a comprehensive selection to choose from.