Losing a mother is an incredibly profound and painful experience. Words often feel inadequate to express the depth of our grief and the immense love we hold for her. Music, however, possesses a unique ability to articulate emotions that words cannot reach. In this guide, we present a curated selection of 21 Funeral Songs For Mom, designed to help you celebrate her life, cherish the memories you shared, and find solace during this difficult time.
These songs serve as more than just background music; they are poignant tributes that can resonate with your heart, evoke cherished moments, and provide a comforting soundtrack to honor your mother’s enduring love and legacy. Whether you are planning a formal funeral service, a memorial gathering, or simply seeking personal comfort, this collection of funeral songs for Mom offers a diverse range of musical expressions to help you through your grieving process.
1. “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion: An Everlasting Love
Celine Dion’s iconic ballad, “My Heart Will Go On,” transcends its cinematic origins to become a universal anthem of enduring love. Its powerful melody and heartfelt lyrics speak to a love that death cannot diminish, a love that remains eternally in our hearts. This song serves as a beautiful reminder that your mother’s love is an everlasting presence, a guiding light that continues to shine even after she is gone.
Alt text: Celine Dion performing My Heart Will Go On music video, symbolizing eternal love for a funeral song selection.
Lyrics that resonate: “Love can touch us one time and last for a lifetime. And never let go till we’re gone. Love was when I loved you, One true time I hold to. In my life we’ll always go on. Near, far, wherever you are, I believe that the heart does go on.”
While “My Heart Will Go On” captures eternal love, sometimes a more upbeat tempo can celebrate the vibrant life of a mother. The next song offers a different perspective.
2. “I’ll Always Love My Mama” by The Intruders: A Groovy Tribute to Mom’s Love
For those seeking a more rhythmically engaging funeral song for Mom, “I’ll Always Love My Mama” by The Intruders provides an energetic and soulful tribute. This classic R&B track is an ode to maternal devotion and sacrifice. Its upbeat tempo and heartfelt lyrics celebrate the unwavering support and unconditional love a mother provides. This song is perfect for reflecting on the joys and cherished moments shared with your mom, acknowledging her strength and the sacrifices she made.
The Intruders – I’ll Always Love My Mama (Official Music Video)
Alt text: The Intruders performing “I’ll Always Love My Mama” music video, a soulful and upbeat funeral song choice.
Lyrics that resonate: “I’ll always love my Mama. She’s my favorite girl. I’ll always love my mama. She brought me in this world. Sometimes I feel so bad When I think of all the things I used to do, how mama used to clean somebody else’s house Just to buy me a new pair of shoes.”
Continuing with expressions of gratitude, the next song beautifully articulates the profound impact of a mother’s love and support.
3. “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion: A Song of Gratitude and Strength
Celine Dion returns with another powerful ballad, “Because You Loved Me,” a song that beautifully expresses profound gratitude for a mother’s unwavering support and belief. This song is a heartfelt acknowledgment of the strength, guidance, and unconditional love a mother provides throughout life’s journey. It’s an ideal funeral song for Mom to convey how her love shaped you and helped you overcome challenges.
Celine Dion – Because You Loved Me (Official Music Video)
Alt text: Celine Dion in “Because You Loved Me” music video, a powerful ballad expressing gratitude for a mother’s love, suitable for a funeral song.
Lyrics that resonate: “For all those times you stood by me. For all the truth that you made me see. For all the joy you brought to my life. For all the wrong that you made right. For every dream you made come true. For all the love I found in you. I’ll be forever thankful baby. You’re the one held me up.”
Moving from adult appreciation to childhood memories, the next song captures the innocence and joy of a daughter’s bond with her mother.
4. “The Best Day” by Taylor Swift: Cherishing Precious Moments
Taylor Swift’s “The Best Day” is a heartwarming and nostalgic song that encapsulates the simple joys and cherished moments shared between a mother and daughter. This song evokes images of childhood innocence, unwavering maternal support, and the creation of lasting memories. It is a tender and touching funeral song for Mom to remember the beautiful simplicity of your relationship and the “best days” spent together.
Alt text: Taylor Swift in “The Best Day” music video, a nostalgic and heartwarming funeral song choice for remembering childhood moments with Mom.
Lyrics that resonate: “And now I know why the all the trees change in the fall. I know you were on my side, Even when I was wrong And I love you for giving me your eyes, Staying back and watching me shine and I didn’t know if you knew. So I’m taking this chance to say That I had the best day with you today.”
Shifting perspective to a daughter’s promise to her mother, the next song explores the cycle of motherhood and the values passed down through generations.
5. “Mama’s Song” by Carrie Underwood: A Daughter’s Promise
Carrie Underwood’s “Mama’s Song” offers a poignant perspective from a daughter to her mother, acknowledging the mother’s role in shaping her life and expressing a desire to make her proud. This country ballad beautifully portrays the bittersweet moment of a mother letting go as her daughter starts her own family. It’s a touching funeral song for Mom that speaks to the enduring bond between mother and daughter and the continuation of family love.
Carrie Underwood – Mama’s Song (Official Music Video)
Alt text: Carrie Underwood performing “Mama’s Song” music video, a daughter’s tribute and promise, fitting as a funeral song for Mom.
Lyrics that resonate: “Mama, you taught me to do the right things, So now you have to let your baby fly. You’ve given me everything that I will need To make it through this crazy thing called life. And I know you watched me grow up And only want what’s best for me And I think I found the answer to your prayers.”
Transitioning to a classic R&B tribute, the next song is a timeless expression of love and appreciation for mothers.
6. “A Song for Mama” by Boyz II Men: A Timeless R&B Dedication
Boyz II Men’s “A Song for Mama” is a soulful and heartfelt R&B ballad that has become a classic dedication to mothers everywhere. With their signature harmonies, Boyz II Men deliver a powerful message of love, gratitude, and respect for all that mothers do. This song is a perfect funeral song for Mom to express deep appreciation for her guidance, care, and unwavering presence in your life.
Boyz II Men – A Song For Mama (Official Music Video)
Alt text: Boyz II Men in “A Song For Mama” music video, a classic R&B tribute expressing love and gratitude, suitable for a funeral song.
Lyrics that resonate: “You taught me everything And everything you’ve given me I’ll always keep it inside. You’re the driving force in my life, yeah There isn’t anything Or anyone that I could be And it just wouldn’t feel right If I didn’t have you by my side You were there for me to love and care for me.”
For a slightly different tone, reflecting on a mother’s protective nature, the next song offers a unique perspective.
7. “Mama Told Me (Not to Come)” by Three Dog Night: A Playful Look at Mom’s Advice
Three Dog Night’s “Mama Told Me (Not to Come)” offers a more lighthearted and even slightly humorous perspective on motherhood. While perhaps not a traditional funeral song for Mom, it can be a fitting choice if your mother had a playful spirit and a good sense of humor. This song can be used to fondly remember her advice, even when it was cautionary or perhaps a little overprotective, celebrating her caring nature in a unique way.
Three Dog Night – Mama Told Me (Not To Come) (Official Audio)
Alt text: Three Dog Night’s “Mama Told Me (Not to Come)” album art, a playful funeral song option reflecting on mom’s advice and care.
Lyrics that resonate: “Mama told me not to come. She said that I’d be better off at home, That what I wanted wasn’t here, That what I needed wasn’t here, So Mama told me not to come, But then she also said, ‘You might as well’.”
Returning to a deeply emotional and universally loved song, the next choice speaks to the profound impact a mother has on our lives.
8. “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler: Recognizing Mom as a Hero
Bette Midler’s “Wind Beneath My Wings” is a powerful and moving ballad that beautifully captures the sentiment of recognizing someone as the unsung hero in your life. Often interpreted as a tribute to a supportive partner, it resonates deeply as a funeral song for Mom. It acknowledges her selfless support, her quiet strength behind your successes, and her unwavering belief in you, making it a perfect way to express gratitude for her foundational role in your life.
Bette Midler – Wind Beneath My Wings (Official Audio)
Alt text: Bette Midler’s “Wind Beneath My Wings” album art, a powerful funeral song choice recognizing Mom as a hero and source of strength.
Lyrics that resonate: “It must have been cold there in my shadow, To never have sunlight on your face. You were content to let me shine. You always walked a step behind. So I was the one with all the glory, While you were the one with all the strength. Did you ever know that you’re my hero? And everything I would like to be? I can fly higher than an eagle. For you are the wind beneath my wings.”
Shifting to a song about embracing life’s journey even in the face of loss, the next selection offers a message of cherishing every moment.
9. “The Dance” by Garth Brooks: Celebrating Life and Cherished Moments
Garth Brooks’ “The Dance” is a poignant country ballad that reflects on the bittersweet nature of love and loss. It emphasizes that even though relationships may end and loved ones may pass, the joy and beauty experienced within those connections are invaluable and worth cherishing. As a funeral song for Mom, it can help express the sentiment that even though grief is painful, the “dance” of life shared with your mother was a precious gift to be remembered with gratitude.
Alt text: Garth Brooks performing “The Dance,” a country funeral song reflecting on cherishing life and moments shared with Mom.
Lyrics that resonate: “And now I’m glad I didn’t know The way it all would end, the way it all would go. Our lives are better left to chance. I could have missed the pain, But I’d of had to miss the dance.”
Continuing with themes of enduring love, the next song is a timeless classic about love that transcends physical presence.
10. “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston: Love That Never Ends
Whitney Houston’s rendition of “I Will Always Love You” is a powerhouse ballad that conveys a message of eternal and unconditional love. While often associated with romantic farewells, its message of lasting affection and well-wishes transcends romantic love, making it a deeply moving funeral song for Mom. It speaks to the enduring nature of a mother’s love, a love that continues to exist beyond physical presence and remains with you always.
Whitney Houston – I Will Always Love You (Official Music Video)
Alt text: Whitney Houston in “I Will Always Love You” music video, a powerful ballad expressing eternal love, a classic funeral song for Mom.
Lyrics that resonate: “I hope life treats you kind. And I hope you have all you’ve dreamed of And I’m wishing you joy and happiness, But above all this, I wish you love And I, I— Will always love you.”
Moving to a song about lasting impressions, the next choice highlights the unforgettable nature of a loved one’s impact.
11. “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole: An Everlasting Impression
Nat King Cole’s “Unforgettable” is a smooth and timeless classic that celebrates the lasting impact a person can have on your life. Its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics speak to the indelible mark a loved one leaves behind. As a funeral song for Mom, it perfectly captures the sentiment that your mother’s presence and influence will forever remain in your memory, making her truly unforgettable.
Nat King Cole – Unforgettable (Official Music Video)
Alt text: Nat King Cole in “Unforgettable” music video, a timeless classic about lasting impressions, a fitting funeral song for Mom’s memorial.
Lyrics that resonate: “Unforgettable, that’s what you are. Unforgettable, though near or far. Like a song of love that clings to me, How the thought of you does things to me, Never before has someone been more unforgettable.”
For those seeking a song of faith and comfort, the next hymn offers solace and hope.
12. “Amazing Grace”: Finding Peace in Faith
“Amazing Grace” is a timeless hymn that offers comfort, hope, and solace in times of sorrow. Its message of redemption and finding grace even in darkness resonates deeply with many. As a traditional funeral song for Mom, it provides a sense of peace and spiritual reassurance, suggesting that even in loss, there is divine grace and the promise of eternal peace.
Alan Jackson – Amazing Grace (Official Music Video)
Alt text: Alan Jackson performing “Amazing Grace” music video, a classic hymn offering faith and comfort as a funeral song for Mom.
Lyrics that resonate: “Amazing grace how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now am found, Was blind, but now I see.”
Continuing with themes of faith and hope, the next song offers a vision of peace and reunion in the afterlife.
13. “I Can Only Imagine” by MercyMe: Envisioning Heavenly Peace
MercyMe’s “I Can Only Imagine” is a contemporary Christian song that beautifully contemplates the wonders of heaven and the peace of being in God’s presence. For those who share a belief in the afterlife, this song offers a comforting vision of your mother finding eternal peace and joy. As a funeral song for Mom, it can provide solace by imagining her in a place of beauty and serenity, free from earthly pain and suffering.
MercyMe – I Can Only Imagine (Official Music Video)
Alt text: MercyMe performing “I Can Only Imagine” music video, a Christian funeral song envisioning heavenly peace for Mom.
Lyrics that resonate: “I can only imagine What it will be like When I walk by Your side, I can only imagine What my eyes will see When Your face is before me, I can only imagine.”
For a more intimate and gentle expression of finding comfort after loss, the next song offers a tender image of peace.
14. “In the Arms of an Angel” by Sarah McLachlan: Finding Comfort and Peace
Sarah McLachlan’s “In the Arms of an Angel” is a delicate and emotionally resonant ballad that speaks to finding solace and peace after loss. Its gentle melody and poignant lyrics evoke a sense of being held and comforted during times of grief. As a funeral song for Mom, it can offer a sense of gentle reassurance and the image of your mother finding peace and protection in a heavenly embrace.
Sarah McLachlan – In The Arms Of An Angel (Official Music Video)
Alt text: Sarah McLachlan in “In The Arms Of An Angel” music video, a gentle and comforting funeral song for Mom’s peace and solace.
Lyrics that resonate: “In the arms of the angel, Fly away from here From this dark, cold hotel room And the endlessness that you fear. You are pulled from the wreckage Of your silent reverie. You’re in the arms of the angel. May you find some comfort here.”
Reflecting on the longing for connection after loss, the next song expresses the universal desire for one more moment with a loved one.
15. “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton: Longing for Reunion
Eric Clapton’s “Tears in Heaven,” written after the tragic loss of his son, is a deeply personal and universally relatable song about grief and longing for reunion with a loved one who has passed away. While born from a parent’s grief for a child, its themes of loss and the question of meeting again in heaven resonate powerfully for anyone grieving. As a funeral song for Mom, it expresses the profound yearning to see her again and the hope of a future reunion.
Eric Clapton – Tears In Heaven (Official Music Video)
Alt text: Eric Clapton in “Tears In Heaven” music video, a deeply personal funeral song expressing longing for reunion with Mom in heaven.
Lyrics that resonate: “Would you know my name, If I saw you in heaven? Would it be the same, If I saw you in heaven? I must be strong And carry on Because I know I don’t belong here in heaven.”
For a song that acknowledges the complex emotions of grief, including feelings of helplessness, the next choice offers a raw and honest expression.
16. “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen (Jeff Buckley Version): Acknowledging Grief and Acceptance
Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” particularly Jeff Buckley’s haunting rendition, is a song of profound depth and emotional complexity. While its lyrics have layers of meaning, in the context of loss, it can be interpreted as an acknowledgement of pain, grief, and the struggle to find meaning in the face of suffering. As a funeral song for Mom, it can resonate with those who are experiencing the rawness of grief and the difficult process of acceptance, offering a space for complex emotions without necessarily providing easy answers.
Jeff Buckley – Hallelujah (Official Video)
Alt text: Jeff Buckley performing “Hallelujah” music video, a funeral song acknowledging grief and the struggle for acceptance after losing Mom.
Lyrics that resonate: “Now I’ve done my best. I know it wasn’t much. I couldn’t feel, so I tried to touch. I’ve told the truth. I didn’t come here to London just to fool you. And even though it all went wrong, I’ll stand right here before the Lord of song With nothing, nothing on my tongue but Hallelujah.”
For a song that expresses hope for future reunion and cherishes memories, the next traditional song offers a comforting farewell.
17. “Vaya Con Dios” (Traditional): A Hopeful Farewell and Cherished Memories
“Vaya Con Dios,” a traditional song with Spanish origins, translates to “Go with God.” Often performed with gentle harmonies, it expresses a tender farewell with a sense of hope for a future reunion and a cherishing of shared memories. As a funeral song for Mom, especially if she appreciated classic or traditional music, it can offer a comforting message of temporary parting, faith in a future meeting, and the enduring power of love and remembrance.
Vaya Con Dios – Les Paul and Mary Ford
Alt text: Les Paul and Mary Ford performing “Vaya Con Dios,” a traditional funeral song offering a hopeful farewell and cherishing memories of Mom.
Lyrics that resonate: “Wherever you may be, I’ll be beside you, Although you’re many million dreams away, Each night I’ll say a prayer, a prayer to guide you, To hasten every lonely hour of every lonely day. Now the dawn is breaking through a gray tomorrow, But the memories we share are there to borrow. Vaya con dios, my darling, Vaya con dios, my love”
Shifting to a song of appreciation for the beauty of the world, the next choice can be a tribute to a mother’s positive outlook.
18. “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong: Celebrating a Positive Legacy
Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World” is an optimistic and heartwarming classic that celebrates the beauty and wonder of the world around us. If your mother had a positive spirit and appreciated the simple joys of life, this song can be a beautiful funeral song for Mom to honor her outlook. It serves as a reminder to find beauty even in sorrow and to cherish the good things in life, reflecting a life well-lived and a positive legacy.
Louis Armstrong – What A Wonderful World (Official Music Video)
Alt text: Louis Armstrong in “What a Wonderful World” music video, a funeral song celebrating a positive legacy and Mom’s appreciation for life’s beauty.
Lyrics that resonate: “I see trees of green, red roses too, I see them bloom for me and you, And I think to myself, What a wonderful world. I see skies of blue and clouds of white, The bright blessed day, the dark sacred night. And I think to myself, What a wonderful world.”
For a song expressing hope and dreams of a better place, the next selection offers a dreamy and comforting vision.
19. “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole: Dreaming of a Peaceful Place
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s ukulele rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” is a gentle, dreamy, and hopeful song that evokes a sense of peace and longing for a better place. Its soothing melody and lyrics about dreams coming true can offer comfort and a sense of gentle optimism. As a funeral song for Mom, it can symbolize her journey to a peaceful place “over the rainbow” and provide a comforting image of serenity and fulfillment.
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole – Somewhere Over The Rainbow (Official Music Video)
Alt text: Israel Kamakawiwo’ole playing ukulele in “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” music video, a dreamy and hopeful funeral song envisioning a peaceful place for Mom.
Lyrics that resonate: “Somewhere over the rainbow Way up high, And the dreams that you dream of Once in a lullaby, Somewhere over the rainbow Bluebirds fly. And the dreams that you dream of. Dreams really do come true.”
For a song symbolizing everlasting love and a bond that reaches beyond earthly limits, the next choice offers a beautiful metaphor.
20. “Ribbon in the Sky” by Stevie Wonder: An Everlasting Bond
Stevie Wonder’s “Ribbon in the Sky” is a soulful and romantic ballad that uses the metaphor of a “ribbon in the sky” to represent an unbreakable and everlasting bond of love. While originally written about romantic love, its message of enduring connection transcends context. As a funeral song for Mom, it beautifully symbolizes the eternal bond you share with her, a connection that remains strong and visible, like a ribbon in the sky, even after death.
Stevie Wonder – Ribbon In The Sky (Official Music Video)
Alt text: Stevie Wonder in “Ribbon In The Sky” music video, a soulful funeral song symbolizing an everlasting bond with Mom, like a ribbon in the sky.
Lyrics that resonate: “Love, we can’t lose with God on our side. We’ll find strength in each tear we cry. From now on it will be you and I, And our ribbon in the sky. Ribbon in the sky, A ribbon in the sky for our love.”
Finally, for a song expressing hopes and wishes for a loved one’s happiness and well-being, the last song offers a heartfelt message of care.
21. “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts: Wishing Her Well on Her New Journey
Rascal Flatts’ “My Wish” is a gentle country ballad that expresses heartfelt wishes for a loved one’s happiness, well-being, and fulfillment in life’s journey. As a funeral song for Mom, it can be adapted to express your hopes for her peace and joy in her next journey. It’s a tender way to convey your enduring care and your wish for her to find happiness and peace, wherever she may be.
Rascal Flatts – My Wish (Official Music Video)
Alt text: Rascal Flatts performing “My Wish” music video, a country funeral song wishing Mom well on her new journey and expressing enduring care.
Lyrics that resonate: “I hope the days come easy and the moments pass slow. And each road leads you where you wanna go. And if you’re faced with a choice, and you have to choose, I hope you choose the one that means the most to you.”
Selecting Meaningful Funeral Songs for Your Mom
This collection of 21 funeral songs for Mom provides a starting point for choosing music that truly honors her life and legacy. The most important aspect is to select songs that resonate personally with you and your family, reflecting her personality, your shared memories, and the unique bond you cherished.
Consider her favorite genres, artists, or songs that held special meaning for her. Reflect on the emotions you want to express during the service – gratitude, love, remembrance, hope, or peace. Creating a playlist of funeral songs for Mom can be a deeply personal and meaningful way to celebrate her life and provide comfort during your time of grief. Share these songs with family and friends to create a shared experience of remembrance and healing. Music, in its universal language, can beautifully express what words alone cannot, offering a lasting tribute to your beloved mother.
