37 Best Funeral Songs For A Grandpa

“All Must Be Well” by Matthew Smith

Song year: 2007

Losing a grandfather can be emotionally draining and even make you question many things in life. However, God reassures us during such times that he’s in control, as evident in Matthew Smith’s track “All Must Be Well.”

The pairing of this classic hymn with modern musical elements makes it a popular choice at many memorial and funeral services. Let your funeral procession find solace in this comforting tune.

“Heaven’s Now My Home” by Libby Allen

Song year: 2012

While you might confuse “Heaven’s Now My Home” for a track from the 1980s, it’s just a decade old. Composed from the standpoint of the deceased, the timeless piano melody expresses their emotions and thoughts to their loved ones.

While listening to this tune, you’ll feel as if your grandfather is talking to you from the afterlife.

“In Color” by Jamey Johnson

Song year: 2008

“In Color” is a sentimental country ballad by Jamey Johnson dedicated to his granddad. The tune is about an elderly guy sharing the tale behind some monochrome photographs with his grandson.

Johnson borrowed inspiration from the song after looking at photos from World War II. Thus, this tune could be hugely significant if your granddad is a military veteran.

“Footprints In The Sand” by Leona Lewis

Song year: 2007

“Footprints In The Sand” is more than a simple beach walk. The song is a heartfelt dedication to individuals who have served as an inspiration in their life.

The singer performs the track from the deceased’s perspective, addressing their surviving loved ones. A great funeral song to remind mourners that their grandpa hasn’t abandoned them.

“Smile” by Nat King Cole

Song year: 1954

“Smile” is a track built on an instrumental theme from the film Modern Times by Charlie Chaplin. Chaplin created the music after hearing Tosca by Puccini.

This track encourages us to be joyful in the face of misfortune. A great funeral song to play during your grandpa’s funeral to celebrate a life well-lived.

“Grandpa (Tell Me ‘Bout The Good Old Days)” by The Judds

Song year: 1985

“Grandpa” is a sentimental country ballad where the vocalist feels overwhelmed by the quick changes of modern society. The singer questions whether things were truly better in her grandfather’s era.

Sadly, there’s no response from her grandfather, which symbolizes that he’s probably already deceased. This track has become popular in many funerals thanks to its heartful lyrics and gloomy tone.

“Somewhere Over The Rainbow” by Judy Garland

Song year: 1939

“Somewhere Over The Rainbow” is arguably the most famous and recognizable tune of the 20th century. The track is frequently associated with the Jewish experience during World War II.

The powerful lyrics are about fleeing to an unknown land. It’s a manifestation of the belief that better times lie ahead. The blend of gloom and hope continue making it a great funeral song worldwide.

“You’ll Be In My Heart” by Phil Collins

Song year: 1999

“You’ll Be In My Heart” is one of the tunes composed and performed by Phil Collins that topped the adult contemporary charts. The track featured in the Disney film Tarzan.

Aside from its orchestration for the film’s soundtrack, this tune is frequently performed at funerals due to the significance of its words. Let your grandfather know you’ll always keep him at heart by playing this track.

“Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver

Song year: 1971

“Take Me Home, Country Roads” is one of John Denver’s commercially successful singles, peaking at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Denver borrowed inspiration from a trip back home for a family reunion.

On the surface, the track is a tribute to Denver’s home state of West Virginia. However, it’s also common at funerals, where mourners sing it as a final send-off to their loved ones as they join their new home, heaven.

“Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Song year: 1973

“Free Bird” is regarded by many as Skynyrd’s signature tune. Upon its release, some fans presumed it was an ode to Duane Allman, their fellow singer who died in 1971. Although the band often dedicates the track to Allman during performances, they composed it years before his passing.

True to its title, this tune is relatable with various elements, from love to sadness. As a funeral song, many people believe the lyrics symbolize the afterlife.

“You’ll Never Walk Alone” by Gerry & The Pacemakers

Song year: 1963

“You’ll Never Walk Alone” by Gerry & The Pacemakers is uplifting. The singer urges us to be persistent, for there’s a triumph in the end. Besides, in acknowledgment of the upcoming struggles, the singer offers unending support for those who’ve lost a loved one.

This track embodies togetherness and solidarity. It’s a great funeral song for a grandpa, as it consoles grieving mourners to accept the loss of their loved one despite the pain.

“What A Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong

Song year: 1967

“What A Wonderful World” is an anthem of love, peace, and all the inherently good things the world has to offer. While lacking Armstrong’s renowned trumpet playing, it’s one of his signature tunes.

Lyrically, the song emphasizes that despite the world’s cruelty, it has a beautiful side worth embracing. A great song to play at the memorial when celebrating your grandpa’s fulfilling life, especially if he was a Jazz music fan.