27 Traditional Funeral Songs

21. Abide With Me by The King’s College Choir

Song Year: 2011

Nothing is as funereal or traditional as “Abide With Me.” It’s a mournful hymn that ostensibly reflects on the close of the day.

Less literally, it’s about finding light in the darkness. Anyone who’s lost someone sympathizes with how impossible that feels. But when you do let the light in, you start feeling hope again, too.

22. They Can’t Take That Away From Me by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong

Song Year: 1956

This is another upbeat funeral song. The lyrics talk about everything we never truly lose, even when our loved ones leave us.

We may not be able to talk with them anymore, but there’s a wealth of memories you can cherish, even in amidst your grief. And though this song is ostensibly about losing a love more mundanely, many people find it perfect for funerals.

It’s suitably nostalgic, but it’s hopeful, too.

23. Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer by Charlotte Church

Song Year: 2001

“Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer,” sometimes called “Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah,” is a traditional Welsh hymn that’s popular at funerals.

The title makes it sound like it’s a song about guiding the departed into the afterlife. But it’s much more than that. It’s also about allowing ourselves to lean on others in our grief and letting them guide us through the pain of losing someone.

24. Nearer My God To Thee by André Rieu

Song Year: 2013

This is another traditional funeral song that’s as much about the people left behind as the departed.

While undeniably our lost loved ones move nearer to God, so do the mourners who share that belief. By doing that we stay close to the people we lose, long after they’re gone.

It’s moving even for the less religious because it reminds us that however dark the hour is, we can always rely on other people for the support we need. That’s an important message, especially at funerals.

25. O For A Closer Walk With God by The Cambridge Singers 

Song Year: 1992

The thing we love most about this song, as sung by The Cambridge Singers, is its tranquility. The music moves, but there is incredible stillness and profundity in the music. It invites you to sit in silence or anguish and be soothed. What could be more suitable for a funeral?

26. Praise My Soul The King Of Heaven by The Choir of Westminster Abbey

Song Year: 2008

The text of this traditional funeral hymn is based on Psalm 103. Famously, it featured at a young Queen Elizabeth II’s wedding, but it was also a staple at funerals.

That’s because its lyrics are about restoring and healing people. At a time when you’re emotionally battered, that can be reassuring. Additionally, it’s a melody that can sound as somber or jubilant as you want. It’s a versatile hymn, suitable for every occasion.

27. Dear Lord And Father Of Mankind by The Salisbury Cathedral Choir

Song Year: 2013

Finally, “Dear Lord And Father of Mankind” is a popular funeral song for a reason.

It encourages listeners and singers to find comfort not in great cosmic thunderclaps but in those moments of peace. They can be few and far between when you’re grieving, so when they arrive, it’s worth making the most of them.

Crucially, it promises that you and the people you lost can eventually find peace, even if that seems incredible at the moment. That’s a comforting idea at a turbulent time. 

Traditional Funeral Songs, Final Thoughts

Traditional songs for funerals come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They might be hymns or classical compositions. Or they might be traditional folk songs and spirituals.

Always remember there’s no wrong option when choosing funeral selections. If it means something to you or the person you lost, that’s all that matters. Music is a vital way to connect with your lost loved ones and rediscover some beauty in life along the way. Hopefully, these funeral selections help you do that.