23 Elvis Presley Funeral Songs

“Take My Hand, Precious Lord”

Song Year:  1957

This powerful tune, penned by Thomas A. Dorsey in 1932, contains a powerful message of optimism, yet a heart-wrecking tragedy influenced it. Thomas wrote “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” as a tribute to the untimely loss of his wife and son.

Elvis’ version of this ballad captures the same mood of tragic enthusiasm as the original while including his distinctive musical style. The song is an appropriate choice for any Elvis fan’s or Christian’s final journey

“Where No One Stands Alone”

Song Year:  1967

Gospel music offers a sense of community that makes it stand out. As a teenager, Elvis experienced this feeling in church and strived to replicate the fellowship vibe in his music. He did it best in “Where No One Stands Alone,” a beautiful gospel track about a rich man who felt alone despite his wealth.

The song was originally written in 1955 by Thomas Mosie Lister, an American singer and Baptist minister. It tells listeners that you can have all the world’s riches and still feel lonely. But with Jesus, you’ll never be alone – a befitting uplifting song for bereaved Christians.

“Pieces of My Life”

Song Year:  1975

Elvis poured new life into the original version of “Pieces of My Life,” penned by Troy Seals for Charlie Rich. The lyrics of this country ballad speak on regrets and sorrows experienced throughout life, reflecting on the significance of these events in building the narrator’s character.

This song would be a fitting tribute to a departed loved one who has endured a great deal of hardship and pain in their life but never lost sight of the broader picture of the good things in life.

“His Hand in Mine”

Song Year:  1960

Presley collaborated with other gospel luminaries to compose this simple yet lovely version of “His Hand in Mine,” a standout feature in his 1960 album with the same title. This single established the tone for the remainder of the album, seamlessly blending gospel and blues into a ballad.

“His Hand in Mine” was based on Mosie Lister’s original composition from 1953, and it helped to popularize the original piece. The timeless gem would be ideal for sending off loved ones who lived solemnly in God’s name.

“My Way”

Song Year:  1973

This show-stopping tune is a fan-favorite of Elvis Presley’s funeral songs. “My Way” was originally titled “Comme d’Habitude,” a 1967 composition, and translated to English by Paul Anka with Frank Sinatra in mind.

Sinatra scored a tremendous smash with the track and became hailed as a Sinatra hit. Elvis Pressley adored the song and added charm and soul to the already-established classic. This song is an easy option for remembering a loved one who brought joy and love into your life.

“Somebody Bigger Than You and I”

Song Year:  1967

Another staple feature in the best Elvis Presley gospel funeral songs is “Somebody Bigger Than You and I.” The song was written by three talented songwriters, Hy Heath, Johnny Lange, and Sonny Burke. The song was first recorded in 1951 by Ink Spots before Mahalia Jackson did it justice in 1967.

Mahalia had previously perfected this gospel classic. Presley’s rendition was more of a mainstream take – a rich orchestral arrangement. It was a courageous yet risky take for a gospel ballad that is still a favorite today. It gives hope to the bereaved that God knows all the answers to their grief.

“You’ll Never Walk Alone”

Song Year:  1967

Since its premiere in Carousel in 1945, “You’ll Never Walk Alone” has uplifted and comforted mourners for over a century. This classic was initially penned by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein, with covers performed by many musicians throughout the decades.

The covers have resulted in various musical versions of the classic hit, available in various genres. Elvis’ rendition of the slow ballad wasn’t the first to be released, but it combined sorrow and optimism in a romantic melody in a manner that no other version could.

“Danny Boy”

Song Year:  1976

“Danny Boy” was penned in 1910 by barrister Frederic Weatherly and set to the melody of another classic, Londonderry Air, an Irish tune first recorded in 1855. Due to the popularity of the melody, “Danny Boy” quickly became a popular feature in Irish funerals.

This rendition is among the most played Elvis Presley funeral songs. It features hauntingly lovely melodies spruced by Elvis’ soothing baritone vocals that will comfort the bereaved attending the funeral.

“You Gave Me a Mountain”

Song Year:  1973

“You Gave Me a Mountain” is an emotional tune penned by a celebrated country music legend, Matty Robbins. However, the most notable initial rendition of the song was by Frankie Laine in 1969. The song tells the tale of the narrator’s trials and tribulations, including heartbreaking experiences.

Elvis’ 1973 version of the song transformed the original’s pop aspects into his melancholy rock characteristics while preserving the original’s mournful lyrics. This mix works beautifully in this tune, suggesting a contemplative, vibrant tone appropriate for a funeral service.

“Don’t Cry Daddy”

Song Year:  1969

The death of a mother is devastating for the entire family unit, and maybe no song conveys that special grief more than “Don’t Cry Daddy.”  This beautiful song was written by Scott Davis from the context of a father hearing his small kid console him after the tragic loss of their mom.

As the title suggests, this song is about children feeling the pain in their father and comforting him to stop crying. This song is befitting for remembering a deceased mother figure.

“An Evening Prayer”

Song Year:  1972

Presley was well-known for his drama and flair. He used his abilities to transform a basic hymn into something remarkable. In the track, Elvis addresses his struggle with success and expectations.

Every accomplished person has doubts about their ability or moral integrity. As a result, this song will certainly be relevant to many individuals, including your deceased loved one.

Best Elvis Presley Funeral Songs, Final Thoughts

Even with his relatively short musical stint, Elvis Presley became iconic in the scene. However, despite his spectacular milestones in secular music, Elvis had a unique affinity with the gospel.

His relationship with gospel music resulted in some of the greatest tunes to grace funerals. The king of rock and roll has something for everyone looking to eulogize their deceased loved one. With your loved one’s spirit in mind, you will find a befitting Elvis Presley funeral song from our compilation.