Popular Funeral Readings
If you’re looking for the perfect funeral reading, we’ve compiled a selection of popular options to help guide and inspire you. These readings are often chosen for their comforting words and thoughtful messages, and can be a meaningful part of any funeral, memorial or celebration of life.
Our collection includes well-known funeral readings, short passages, and uplifting verses. Some are taken from the Bible or other religious texts, while others are non-religious readings that focus on love, remembrance, and hope.
Whether you’re planning a funeral service or simply looking for ideas, our suggested funeral readings can help you find the right words to honour your loved one.
- On this page:
- 1. Popular Poems
- 2. All Funeral Poems
- 3. FAQs
One At Rest
- A. J. Stanley
- 1978
- 5 to 30 seconds Reflective/memorial pace: 35 to 45 seconds
Think of me as one at rest
For me you should not weep
I have no pain no troubled thoughts
For I am just asleep
The living thinking me that was,
Is now forever still
And life goes on without me now
As time forever wilIf your heart is heavy now
Because Ive gone away
Dwell not long upon it friend
For none of us can stay
Those of you who liked me
I sincerely thank you all
And those of you who loved me
I thank you most of all
And in my fleeting lifespan
As time went rushing by
I found some time to hesitate
To laugh, to love, to cry
Matters it now if time began
If time will ever cease?
I was here, I used it all,
And now I am at peace
For me you should not weep
I have no pain no troubled thoughts
For I am just asleep
The living thinking me that was,
Is now forever still
And life goes on without me now
As time forever wilIf your heart is heavy now
Because Ive gone away
Dwell not long upon it friend
For none of us can stay
Those of you who liked me
I sincerely thank you all
And those of you who loved me
I thank you most of all
And in my fleeting lifespan
As time went rushing by
I found some time to hesitate
To laugh, to love, to cry
Matters it now if time began
If time will ever cease?
I was here, I used it all,
And now I am at peace
This gentle poem offers comfort to those mourning a loss by encouraging them not to grieve deeply or sorrowfully. The speaker asks to be remembered as resting peacefully, free from pain and troubled thoughts. someone who has passed away and is asking their loved ones to think of them as at rest, without pain or trouble. The speaker encourages their loved ones not to dwell on their passing and to cherish the memories they shared together. The speaker expresses gratitude for those who loved and liked them and reflects on the importance of taking advantage of the time we have in life. The poem ends with the speaker finding peace in their passing.
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One At Rest by A. J. Stanley
Think of me as one at rest
For me you should not weep
I have no pain no troubled thoughts
For I am just asleep
The living thinking me that was,
Is now forever still
And life goes on without me now
As time forever wilIf your heart is heavy now
Because Ive gone away
Dwell not long upon it friend
For none of us can stay
Those of you who liked me
I sincerely thank you all
And those of you who loved me
I thank you most of all
And in my fleeting lifespan
As time went rushing by
I found some time to hesitate
To laugh, to love, to cry
Matters it now if time began
If time will ever cease?
I was here, I used it all,
And now I am at peace
For me you should not weep
I have no pain no troubled thoughts
For I am just asleep
The living thinking me that was,
Is now forever still
And life goes on without me now
As time forever wilIf your heart is heavy now
Because Ive gone away
Dwell not long upon it friend
For none of us can stay
Those of you who liked me
I sincerely thank you all
And those of you who loved me
I thank you most of all
And in my fleeting lifespan
As time went rushing by
I found some time to hesitate
To laugh, to love, to cry
Matters it now if time began
If time will ever cease?
I was here, I used it all,
And now I am at peace
Farewell my friends
- Rabindranath Tagore
- early 20th century
- 30 to 45 seconds Memorial reading pace: Around 1 minute
It was beautiful as long as it lasted
The journey of my life
I have nor egrets whatsoever, save the pain
I’ll leave behind
Those dear hearts who love and care
And the strings pulled at the heart and soul
The journey of my life
I have nor egrets whatsoever, save the pain
I’ll leave behind
Those dear hearts who love and care
And the strings pulled at the heart and soul
poignant and reflective passage that expresses a calm and gracious goodbye. It conveys a message of gratitude and love toward those who have shared life’s journey with the speaker
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Farewell my friends by Rabindranath Tagore
It was beautiful as long as it lasted
The journey of my life
I have nor egrets whatsoever, save the pain
I’ll leave behind
Those dear hearts who love and care
And the strings pulled at the heart and soul
The journey of my life
I have nor egrets whatsoever, save the pain
I’ll leave behind
Those dear hearts who love and care
And the strings pulled at the heart and soul
1 Corinthians 15:51-57:
- Bible New Testament
- Unknown
- Approximately 30 seconds.
Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: ‘Death has been swallowed up in victory.’ ‘Where, O Death, has your victory gone? Where, O Death, is your sting?’ The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
This passage from 1 Corinthians speaks of a mystery: that not everyone will die, but all will be changed. At the last trumpet, the dead will be raised imperishable, and the living will also be transformed, as the perishable is clothed with the imperishable and the mortal with immortality. This transformation signifies victory over death, whose sting is sin and whose power is the law, with thanks given to God for the victory through Jesus Christ.
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1 Corinthians 15:51-57:, Bible New Testament
Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: ‘Death has been swallowed up in victory.’ ‘Where, O Death, has your victory gone? Where, O Death, is your sting?’ The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Isaiah 25:6-9
This passage offers a vision of a feast prepared by God for all peoples, with death being swallowed up forever.
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Isaiah 25:6-9 by
This passage offers a vision of a feast prepared by God for all peoples, with death being swallowed up forever.
Romans 8:35-39
- Bible New Testament
- Unknown
- Approximately 30 seconds.
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: ‘For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.’ No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
This passage from Romans emphasizes that nothing can separate believers from the love of Christ, asserting that despite challenges, they are more than conquerors through Him. It lists various adversities, including death, life, angels, demons, present or future events, powers, height, depth, or anything else in creation, as incapable of severing this divine bond.
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Romans 8:35-39, Bible New Testament
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: ‘For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.’ No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Job 19:23-27
- Bible New Testament
- Unknown
- Approximately 30 seconds.
Oh that my words were written! Oh that they were inscribed in a book! Oh that with an iron pen and lead they were engraved in the rock forever! For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. My heart faints within me!
The passage expresses a fervent wish for the speaker’s words to be permanently recorded, like an inscription in rock. It then declares a strong belief in a living Redeemer who will ultimately stand on earth, and the speaker’s hope to see God with their own eyes after their death.
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Job 19:23-27, Bible New Testament
Oh that my words were written! Oh that they were inscribed in a book! Oh that with an iron pen and lead they were engraved in the rock forever! For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. My heart faints within me!
Legacy of love
- Joanne Ginsberg
- 1971
A wife, a mother, a grandma too,
This legacy we have from you,
You gave us love and how to fight,
You gave us strength, you gave us might,
A stronger person would be hard to find,
And in your heart, you were always kind,
You fought for us all in one way or another,
Not just as a wife, not just as a mother
For all of us you gave your best,
Now the time has come for you to rest
So go in peace, you earned your sleep,
Your love in our hearts, we’ll eternally keep
This legacy we have from you,
You gave us love and how to fight,
You gave us strength, you gave us might,
A stronger person would be hard to find,
And in your heart, you were always kind,
You fought for us all in one way or another,
Not just as a wife, not just as a mother
For all of us you gave your best,
Now the time has come for you to rest
So go in peace, you earned your sleep,
Your love in our hearts, we’ll eternally keep
heartfelt tribute celebrating the enduring impact of a remarkable woman—often a wife, mother, grandmother, or family matriarch. The poem reflects on the many ways she strengthened, guided, and inspired her loved ones, overall The passage comforts mourners with its gentle rhythm and hopeful tone, reminding them that although she has passed, her legacy—her love, strength, and lessons—remains alive within each person she touched.
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Legacy of love by Joanne Ginsberg
A wife, a mother, a grandma too,
This legacy we have from you,
You gave us love and how to fight,
You gave us strength, you gave us might,
A stronger person would be hard to find,
And in your heart, you were always kind,
You fought for us all in one way or another,
Not just as a wife, not just as a mother
For all of us you gave your best,
Now the time has come for you to rest
So go in peace, you earned your sleep,
Your love in our hearts, we’ll eternally keep
This legacy we have from you,
You gave us love and how to fight,
You gave us strength, you gave us might,
A stronger person would be hard to find,
And in your heart, you were always kind,
You fought for us all in one way or another,
Not just as a wife, not just as a mother
For all of us you gave your best,
Now the time has come for you to rest
So go in peace, you earned your sleep,
Your love in our hearts, we’ll eternally keep
Our Mum
- Andrea Jackson
- Unknown
- ~45 secs
A special Mum is hard to find
For that we know is true
You gave to us unselfishly
Every single part of you
Your winning smile, those sparking eyes,
The way you made us laugh,
We know you were so peaceful
As you travelled Heaven’s path
Your memory is your inner strength,
Which last a whole life through,
God threw away the mould Mum
The day that he made you
Whenever we are lonely
And need your loving hand
We know that you will guide us
In life, to understand
That each day you’ll walk beside us,
We will never be alone,
The only thing that’s changed now Mum
Is that you are not at home
For that we know is true
You gave to us unselfishly
Every single part of you
Your winning smile, those sparking eyes,
The way you made us laugh,
We know you were so peaceful
As you travelled Heaven’s path
Your memory is your inner strength,
Which last a whole life through,
God threw away the mould Mum
The day that he made you
Whenever we are lonely
And need your loving hand
We know that you will guide us
In life, to understand
That each day you’ll walk beside us,
We will never be alone,
The only thing that’s changed now Mum
Is that you are not at home
offers both tribute and closure—honoring a woman’s impact while comforting loved ones with the assurance that her love continues to live on.
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Our Mum by Andrea Jackson
A special Mum is hard to find
For that we know is true
You gave to us unselfishly
Every single part of you
Your winning smile, those sparking eyes,
The way you made us laugh,
We know you were so peaceful
As you travelled Heaven’s path
Your memory is your inner strength,
Which last a whole life through,
God threw away the mould Mum
The day that he made you
Whenever we are lonely
And need your loving hand
We know that you will guide us
In life, to understand
That each day you’ll walk beside us,
We will never be alone,
The only thing that’s changed now Mum
Is that you are not at home
For that we know is true
You gave to us unselfishly
Every single part of you
Your winning smile, those sparking eyes,
The way you made us laugh,
We know you were so peaceful
As you travelled Heaven’s path
Your memory is your inner strength,
Which last a whole life through,
God threw away the mould Mum
The day that he made you
Whenever we are lonely
And need your loving hand
We know that you will guide us
In life, to understand
That each day you’ll walk beside us,
We will never be alone,
The only thing that’s changed now Mum
Is that you are not at home
At Rest
- authorship is unknown
- no definitive publication record or date
- About 1 minute to 1 minute 15 seconds Reflective/memorial pace: Around 1 minute 30 seconds.
Think of me as one at rest,
For me, no need to weep,
I have no pain, no troubled thoughts,
For I am just at peace.
The living, thinking me that was,
is now forever still,
And life goes on without me,
as time forever will.
If your heart is heavy now,
because I’ve gone away,
Dwell not long upon it friend,
for none of us can stay.
To those friends who liked me,
I sincerely thank you all,
and those of you that loved me,
well, I thank you most of all.
For in my fleeting lifespan,
as time went rushing by
I found some time to hesitate,
to laugh, to love, to cry.
It matters not when time began,
or if time will ever cease
For I was here, I used it all
and now I am at peace.
For me, no need to weep,
I have no pain, no troubled thoughts,
For I am just at peace.
The living, thinking me that was,
is now forever still,
And life goes on without me,
as time forever will.
If your heart is heavy now,
because I’ve gone away,
Dwell not long upon it friend,
for none of us can stay.
To those friends who liked me,
I sincerely thank you all,
and those of you that loved me,
well, I thank you most of all.
For in my fleeting lifespan,
as time went rushing by
I found some time to hesitate,
to laugh, to love, to cry.
It matters not when time began,
or if time will ever cease
For I was here, I used it all
and now I am at peace.
offers a gentle and reassuring message to those mourning a loss. It invites loved ones to think of the departed not with sorrow or pain, but as someone who has found peace and rest. The speaker emphasizes the natural cycle of life and death, acknowledging that while their physical presence is gone, life continues.
The poem expresses gratitude to friends and loved ones, highlighting the importance of love, laughter, and shared moments in life. It encourages the living to cherish memories and to accept the inevitability of death with grace.
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At Rest by authorship is unknown
Think of me as one at rest,
For me, no need to weep,
I have no pain, no troubled thoughts,
For I am just at peace.
The living, thinking me that was,
is now forever still,
And life goes on without me,
as time forever will.
If your heart is heavy now,
because I’ve gone away,
Dwell not long upon it friend,
for none of us can stay.
To those friends who liked me,
I sincerely thank you all,
and those of you that loved me,
well, I thank you most of all.
For in my fleeting lifespan,
as time went rushing by
I found some time to hesitate,
to laugh, to love, to cry.
It matters not when time began,
or if time will ever cease
For I was here, I used it all
and now I am at peace.
For me, no need to weep,
I have no pain, no troubled thoughts,
For I am just at peace.
The living, thinking me that was,
is now forever still,
And life goes on without me,
as time forever will.
If your heart is heavy now,
because I’ve gone away,
Dwell not long upon it friend,
for none of us can stay.
To those friends who liked me,
I sincerely thank you all,
and those of you that loved me,
well, I thank you most of all.
For in my fleeting lifespan,
as time went rushing by
I found some time to hesitate,
to laugh, to love, to cry.
It matters not when time began,
or if time will ever cease
For I was here, I used it all
and now I am at peace.
Rose Garden
- Liz Newman
- 1990
- Aproximitly 40 seconds
But loved ones, remember:
For all the roses that grew
She tended and planted
Whole gardens in you.
Her heart warm and nurturing,
Her love strong and deep
Resilient and rooted
Yours to tend and to keep.
Her humor a harvest
Her love gently blooms
Her comforting presence
Still fills up a room.
For now we’re her roses.
Her legacy
of light and care.
The whole world will marvel
and know that she was there.
For all the roses that grew
She tended and planted
Whole gardens in you.
Her heart warm and nurturing,
Her love strong and deep
Resilient and rooted
Yours to tend and to keep.
Her humor a harvest
Her love gently blooms
Her comforting presence
Still fills up a room.
For now we’re her roses.
Her legacy
of light and care.
The whole world will marvel
and know that she was there.
serves as a tribute to a woman—likely a mother or grandmother—whose nurturing spirit, strength, and love left a lasting impact on those she cared for
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Rose Garden by Liz Newman
But loved ones, remember:
For all the roses that grew
She tended and planted
Whole gardens in you.
Her heart warm and nurturing,
Her love strong and deep
Resilient and rooted
Yours to tend and to keep.
Her humor a harvest
Her love gently blooms
Her comforting presence
Still fills up a room.
For now we’re her roses.
Her legacy
of light and care.
The whole world will marvel
and know that she was there.
For all the roses that grew
She tended and planted
Whole gardens in you.
Her heart warm and nurturing,
Her love strong and deep
Resilient and rooted
Yours to tend and to keep.
Her humor a harvest
Her love gently blooms
Her comforting presence
Still fills up a room.
For now we’re her roses.
Her legacy
of light and care.
The whole world will marvel
and know that she was there.
What is a Mum?
- Joanna Miller
- 2012
- 45 to 60 seconds Reflective/memorial pace: ~1 minute to 1 minute 15 seconds
A Mum is one of life’s best gifts,
Someone to treasure all life through,
She’s caring and loving,
Thoughtful and true,
Someone who is always a special part of your life,
Someone who holds a prime place in your heart,
She’s a mentor, a confident and also a friend,
Someone on whose love you can depend.
A mum always has your best interests at heart,
She’s someone so dear and so good,
She’s a blessing, she’s a gift,
She’s a treasure like no other,
She’s someone that is truly wonderful.
Wherever you go, and whatever you do,
A mum’s love will always see you through,
A mum is truly invaluable,
Indispensable and unforgettable.
I wouldn’t want anyone but you,
And that’s why I’m so grateful,
that life picked you for me.
Someone to treasure all life through,
She’s caring and loving,
Thoughtful and true,
Someone who is always a special part of your life,
Someone who holds a prime place in your heart,
She’s a mentor, a confident and also a friend,
Someone on whose love you can depend.
A mum always has your best interests at heart,
She’s someone so dear and so good,
She’s a blessing, she’s a gift,
She’s a treasure like no other,
She’s someone that is truly wonderful.
Wherever you go, and whatever you do,
A mum’s love will always see you through,
A mum is truly invaluable,
Indispensable and unforgettable.
I wouldn’t want anyone but you,
And that’s why I’m so grateful,
that life picked you for me.
a tribute to the unique and irreplaceable role of a mother. It highlights the many qualities that make a mum so special—her love, care, guidance, and unwavering presence in our lives. Through affectionate language and rhythmic flow, the poem celebrates a mother’s multifaceted role: as a caregiver, mentor, confidante, and lifelong friend
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What is a Mum? by Joanna Miller
A Mum is one of life’s best gifts,
Someone to treasure all life through,
She’s caring and loving,
Thoughtful and true,
Someone who is always a special part of your life,
Someone who holds a prime place in your heart,
She’s a mentor, a confident and also a friend,
Someone on whose love you can depend.
A mum always has your best interests at heart,
She’s someone so dear and so good,
She’s a blessing, she’s a gift,
She’s a treasure like no other,
She’s someone that is truly wonderful.
Wherever you go, and whatever you do,
A mum’s love will always see you through,
A mum is truly invaluable,
Indispensable and unforgettable.
I wouldn’t want anyone but you,
And that’s why I’m so grateful,
that life picked you for me.
Someone to treasure all life through,
She’s caring and loving,
Thoughtful and true,
Someone who is always a special part of your life,
Someone who holds a prime place in your heart,
She’s a mentor, a confident and also a friend,
Someone on whose love you can depend.
A mum always has your best interests at heart,
She’s someone so dear and so good,
She’s a blessing, she’s a gift,
She’s a treasure like no other,
She’s someone that is truly wonderful.
Wherever you go, and whatever you do,
A mum’s love will always see you through,
A mum is truly invaluable,
Indispensable and unforgettable.
I wouldn’t want anyone but you,
And that’s why I’m so grateful,
that life picked you for me.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
- New Testament
- Unknown
- Approximately 30 seconds
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
This reading emphasizes God as the source of comfort, who provides solace in affliction so that believers can, in turn, comfort others with the same divine comfort they received.
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2 Corinthians 1:3-4, New Testament
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
Matthew 5:4:
- Bible New Testament
- Unknown
- Approximately 10 seconds.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
This reading, “Matthew 5:4” from the Bible New Testament, states that those who mourn will be comforted.
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Matthew 5:4:, Bible New Testament
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
John 14:1-3
- Bible New Testament
- Unknown
- Approximately 20 seconds.
Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.
This passage from the Bible encourages listeners not to be troubled, asserting that there are many rooms in God’s house and that Jesus is preparing a place for them, promising to return and take them to be with him.
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John 14:1-3, Bible New Testament
Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.
Psalm 23:
- Bible Old Testament
- Unknown
- Approximately 20 seconds.
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
This reading, Psalm 23, describes the Lord as a shepherd who provides for, guides, and comforts his people. It speaks of finding solace and protection even in difficult times, and the promise of goodness, mercy, and dwelling in the house of the Lord forever.
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Psalm 23:, Bible Old Testament
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
The Solder
- Rupert Brooke:
- 1914
- 45 seconds Ceremonial pace: Around 1 minute
If I should die, think only of me
That theres some corner of a foreign field
That is for ever England. There shall be
in that rich earth a richer dust concealed
A dust whom England bore, shaped, made aware
Gave once her flowers to love, her ways to roam
A body of England’s breathing English air
Washed by the rivers, blest by suns of home
And think, this heart, all evil shed away
A pulse in the eternal mind, no less
Gives somewhere back the thoughts by England given
Her sights and sounds; dreams happy as her day
And laughter, learnt of friends, and gentleness
In hearts at peace, under an English heav
That theres some corner of a foreign field
That is for ever England. There shall be
in that rich earth a richer dust concealed
A dust whom England bore, shaped, made aware
Gave once her flowers to love, her ways to roam
A body of England’s breathing English air
Washed by the rivers, blest by suns of home
And think, this heart, all evil shed away
A pulse in the eternal mind, no less
Gives somewhere back the thoughts by England given
Her sights and sounds; dreams happy as her day
And laughter, learnt of friends, and gentleness
In hearts at peace, under an English heav
captures the deep connection the speaker feels to England, emphasizing how even in death on foreign soil, his essence remains tied to his homeland.
The poem expresses a serene acceptance of death, framing it as a noble contribution to the country’s legacy.
Share:
The Solder by Rupert Brooke:
If I should die, think only of me
That theres some corner of a foreign field
That is for ever England. There shall be
in that rich earth a richer dust concealed
A dust whom England bore, shaped, made aware
Gave once her flowers to love, her ways to roam
A body of England’s breathing English air
Washed by the rivers, blest by suns of home
And think, this heart, all evil shed away
A pulse in the eternal mind, no less
Gives somewhere back the thoughts by England given
Her sights and sounds; dreams happy as her day
And laughter, learnt of friends, and gentleness
In hearts at peace, under an English heav
That theres some corner of a foreign field
That is for ever England. There shall be
in that rich earth a richer dust concealed
A dust whom England bore, shaped, made aware
Gave once her flowers to love, her ways to roam
A body of England’s breathing English air
Washed by the rivers, blest by suns of home
And think, this heart, all evil shed away
A pulse in the eternal mind, no less
Gives somewhere back the thoughts by England given
Her sights and sounds; dreams happy as her day
And laughter, learnt of friends, and gentleness
In hearts at peace, under an English heav
A Soldier
- Unkwon, possibly J. R. (Jim) O'RourkeJ. R. (Jim) O'Rourke
- early 21st century
- 30 to 45 seconds, the case in ceremonies or memorials—it may take up to 1 minute
Still a Soldier
I lay here today
I know some Don’t understand
I will try to explain it
The soldier and the man
I served my country
For many a year
I retired long ago
But the soldiers still here
I put on my uniform
I wore it to foreign lands
The soldier I was
Is still the man
I have been a good man
And a friend to many here today
But I’ve been a soldier all along
Even after so many years
And so my final salute
I render today
I’m still a proud soldier
I’m just on my way
Rest in peace soldier !
I lay here today
I know some Don’t understand
I will try to explain it
The soldier and the man
I served my country
For many a year
I retired long ago
But the soldiers still here
I put on my uniform
I wore it to foreign lands
The soldier I was
Is still the man
I have been a good man
And a friend to many here today
But I’ve been a soldier all along
Even after so many years
And so my final salute
I render today
I’m still a proud soldier
I’m just on my way
Rest in peace soldier !
reflective and heartfelt expression of a veteran’s enduring identity as a soldier
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A Soldier by Unkwon, possibly J. R. (Jim) O’RourkeJ. R. (Jim) O’Rourke
Still a Soldier
I lay here today
I know some Don’t understand
I will try to explain it
The soldier and the man
I served my country
For many a year
I retired long ago
But the soldiers still here
I put on my uniform
I wore it to foreign lands
The soldier I was
Is still the man
I have been a good man
And a friend to many here today
But I’ve been a soldier all along
Even after so many years
And so my final salute
I render today
I’m still a proud soldier
I’m just on my way
Rest in peace soldier !
I lay here today
I know some Don’t understand
I will try to explain it
The soldier and the man
I served my country
For many a year
I retired long ago
But the soldiers still here
I put on my uniform
I wore it to foreign lands
The soldier I was
Is still the man
I have been a good man
And a friend to many here today
But I’ve been a soldier all along
Even after so many years
And so my final salute
I render today
I’m still a proud soldier
I’m just on my way
Rest in peace soldier !
If roses grow in heaven
- Dolores M. Garcia
- Late 20th Century
- 40 to 50 seconds
If roses grow in heaven,
Lord please pick a bunch for me,
Place them in my Mother’s arms
and tell her they’re from me.
Tell her I love her and miss her,
and when she turns to smile,
place a kiss upon her cheek
and hold her for awhile.
Because remembering her is easy,
I do it every day,
but there’s an ache within my heart
that will never go away.
Lord please pick a bunch for me,
Place them in my Mother’s arms
and tell her they’re from me.
Tell her I love her and miss her,
and when she turns to smile,
place a kiss upon her cheek
and hold her for awhile.
Because remembering her is easy,
I do it every day,
but there’s an ache within my heart
that will never go away.
expresses the enduring grief and love of someone mourning the loss of their mother. Using the gentle imagery of roses growing in heaven, the speaker makes a heartfelt plea to God—to deliver a bouquet and a message of love to their mother in the afterlife.
Share:
If roses grow in heaven by Dolores M. Garcia
If roses grow in heaven,
Lord please pick a bunch for me,
Place them in my Mother’s arms
and tell her they’re from me.
Tell her I love her and miss her,
and when she turns to smile,
place a kiss upon her cheek
and hold her for awhile.
Because remembering her is easy,
I do it every day,
but there’s an ache within my heart
that will never go away.
Lord please pick a bunch for me,
Place them in my Mother’s arms
and tell her they’re from me.
Tell her I love her and miss her,
and when she turns to smile,
place a kiss upon her cheek
and hold her for awhile.
Because remembering her is easy,
I do it every day,
but there’s an ache within my heart
that will never go away.
If someone has died, Our Family is here to help you.
Find your nearest office below or request a call back.
orpington
bromley
beckenham
west-wickham
dulwich
biggin-hill
petts-wood
camberwell
sidcup
bexleyheath
eltham
You simply cannot ask for a better service than when you first contact W. Uden & Sons. From the initial phone call, to the meeting, to the correspondence, to the help and advice, to the whole process, they were kind, respectful and so professional. They managed to blend the old traditions with some modern requests and the service was beautiful. Thank you from the bottom of mine and my sister’s heart.
I’ll like to thank udens & son for doing my dads funeral they went above and beyond want I expectedEven though the day was raining the guys at udens was really professional and helped every way they could to make the day less stressfulThey all was respectful and polite the whole timeI would recommend to anyone they was there to answer all my questions that i hadThanks again for everything
Udens Petts Wood were first class from start to finish. The dignified way they collected dad from home and then a few weeks later mum from the nursing home showed great compassion and they made sure they were kept together. They quickly rearranged a single funeral to a joint funeral and explained the different options available and we were able to see them both together in the chapel of rest at very short notice. On the day Andrew turned a heartbreaking day to one of celebration and couldn't do enough for us. As a family we would like to thank Andrew and his team for their kindness, compassion and professionalism.
At a very difficult time, Adam and the staff of W. Uden showed us support and kindness. My father's funeral from start to finish was managed with dignity and understanding. I had not had to arrange a service before, so had to completely trust Adam. His focus was about our family, and giving us the day my father would have wanted. With beautiful small gestures, of a choice of colour of the ties that the staff wore, to the car and advice relating to the side of funerals I was not aware of. Sharing the procedure with thoughtfulness.Jay, who supported us during the service was respectful and understanding. At the meeting to arrange the service, we discussed things, which on the day changed. Jay was incredible in performing, not only his own duties, but to guide me. With just a look, he was at my side, checking that the ceremony was as the family wanted. To be able to rely on someone took away so much pressure. Even his call on the morning of the funeral, checking on me gave me the courage to feel I could handle the day. I am forever grateful.Thank you for your support and kindness.
Huge thanks to Adam and the team for the care and professionalism leading up to the funeral of Alfred Chambers and making the day of the funeral perfect. A truly outstanding service provided by Uden’s Bexleyheath. My family and I cannot thank all of you enough.
I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone at Udens Bexleyheath for the exceptional care and support they provided during the arrangements for my dad’s funeral.From the very beginning, Adam in the office was incredibly helpful, compassionate and professional. They guided us through the planning process with patience and understanding, making what could have been an overwhelming experience feel much more manageable. Nothing was too much trouble, and their support was greatly appreciated by our family.On the day of the funeral, Callum conducted everything with dignity, kindness and professionalism. His calm and reassuring presence helped us through a very emotional day, and it was clear that he genuinely cared about ensuring Dad received the respectful and meaningful farewell he deserved.The entire team helped create a beautiful service that honoured Dad’s life perfectly. At a time when emotions were running high, it was a great comfort to know that every detail was being handled with such care and attention.Thank you all for your compassion, support and professionalism. We are truly grateful and would not hesitate to recommend your services to others.Dad’s funeral was exactly what he would have wanted, and for that we will always be thankful.
Uden and Sons did a fantastic day for my mothers funeral . Their professionalism shone through and we could not have asked for any more. I'd like to thank all the team for all their support for the day and would not hesitate to recommend them . Thanks from all the family.Many ThanksDes Shannon
Udens were extremely professional and respectful from my first call to the end. I can't recommend them highly enough. Andrea was enormously helpful. I have never organised a funeral before and they made everything so simple when we were obviously otherwise occupied. Thanks to everyone especially as I don't remember the names of those on the day, for which, forgive me.
Uden and Sons supported us with sensitivity and professionalism as we said goodbye to our Mum. Nothing was too much trouble. As a family we have used their services for many years and they have been consistently efficient. Our heartfelt thanks go out to the team for their attention to detail and kindness throughout the process.
Dear Danny, Bina Jack and Team,I would like to express my sincere thanks to you all for the way you conducted my mum's funeral on Friday, 19th June 2026.A huge thank you to Jack and his team for the professionalism, dignity, and courtesy you showed throughout the day. Your care, compassion, and attention to detail helped make a very difficult occasion much easier for our family, and we greatly appreciated the respect shown to Mum and to all of us.Thank you once again for your support and for providing such an excellent service at a time when it meant so much.With heartfelt thanks,
Udena are the right choice if you wish to honour your loved ones.Udens we're kind, caring and professional. Nothing was too much trouble and if you need them too, they can provide contacts for flowers, order of service, minister which was so helpful. I was not in a position to research these and their contacts were excellent. But it was the staff at Udens who gave me an amazing service, helping every step of the way. On the day of the funeral the team were impeccably dressed and respectful. You did my Uncle Peter proud, I would not use anyone else, and would highly recommend them. Thanks you Bina, David Dean and the team.
W.Udens & Sons (Camberwell) have been professional and comforting in their approach during this very sad time. Bina (one of the funeral director staff) has a naturally caring nature and demeanour which is was very important when dealing with the death of a loved one. She didn't rush or force anything on us, but allowed us time to think and reflect. This meant the right balance was struck. Thank you for being sensitive to our needs.
Adam who looked after us was extremely helpful and made everything feel effortless from beginning to the end.
Fantastic service from start to finish. When navigating the loss of my Dad, I'm glad we chose Udens as our funeral director. Right from our initial meeting with Adam, through the celebrant we were paired with, to the funeral conductor and drivers that arrived on the day. They handled everything flawlessly, sensitively and with incredible respect.The cars were immaculate, the staff were very smartly dressed. They were also happy to drive a custom route for Dad's final journey.Whenever the next need for a funeral director sadly rolls around, I'd not hesitate to use Udens again.Thanks to all.
We can’t thank the team at the Camberwell branch enough for their kindness and professionalism during the arrangements for my mum’s funeral last week. They were caring, thoughtful, and made a very difficult time much easier for our family. Everything was handled with dignity and respect, and we really appreciated all their support. Highly recommended



















