Losing a grandfather is a difficult experience. In such times, many people find solace in music.
Here are the best funeral songs for a grandpa to help express what you’re feeling for this important man in your life.
“I Wish Grandpas Never Died” by Riley Green
Song year: 2019
Ever since its release, “I Wish Grandpas Never Died” by Riley Green has been one of the most popular funeral songs for grandfathers. The track featured on Riley’s debut studio album, Different ‘Round Here. The track is a homage to his grandfathers, whom he credits as co-writers.
Nobody wants their granddad taken away from them, which makes the lyrics of this song quite relatable. The slow country music tempo is also quite soothing, especially in grief.
“Grandpa” by Justin Moore
Song year: 2009
“Grandpa” by Justin Moore is a poignant tune, co-written with Jamie Paulin and Jeremy Stover. This song is a tribute to Moore’s grandfather, who died of cancer.
Justin’s voice on this tune displays genuine, deep feelings associated with the death of his beloved grandfather. If your grandfather loved country music, this track is a great option to play during their final sendoff.
“Go Rest High On That Mountain” by Vince Gill
Song year: 1994
“Go Rest High On That Mountain” is the sixth single from Vince Gill’s album When Love Finds You. Gill began composing this eulogic ballad after the death of his friend and county music artist, Keith Whitley. However, Gill didn’t finish the song until years later, after his elder brother died of cardiac arrest.
From listening to the track, it’s clear how much emotion and anguish Gill poured into the lyrics. A great funeral song for a grandpa that gives mourners assurance their beloved is in a better place.
“Let It Be” by The Beatles
Song year: 1970
“Let It Be” is the Beatles’ final song of their last studio album. Paul McCartney composed the track when he felt alienated as the only Beatle still determined to keep the band together.
The song earned the highest debut on the Billboard Hot 100. It embodies the theme of acceptance, making it one of the common funeral songs about a grandpa dying.
“Angel Standing” by Jewel
Song year: 1994
“Angel Standing” is the 13th track from Jewel’s debut album, Pieces of You. At the time, Jewel was going through a rough patch, including homelessness. She pieced up this tune to find consolation.
Jewel’s unique voice gives this otherwise upbeat tune a gloomy element.
“Hero” by Mariah Carey
Song year: 1993
“Hero” is one of Mariah’s most personal and inspirational ballads. The track received huge commercial success, even topping the US Billboard Hot 100.
This song encourages you to be courageous and strong. If your grandfather was your hero, this is a great funeral song to grieve him and inspire you to move on.
“Angel Among Us” by Alabama
Song year: 1993
“Angel Among Us” by Alabama is a smooth ballad composed by Beck Hobbs and Don Goodman. Hops borrowed inspiration to write the track after surviving a vehicle crash.
This song conveys the message that someone is always looking out for you. One of the best funeral songs about a grandpa dying, as it’s consoling to know he hasn’t gone entirely.
“I Will Remember You” by Sarah McLachlan
Song year: 1993
Sarah McLachlan’s “I Will Remember You” is about savoring life’s pleasant moments and cherishing memories shared with your dear ones. The lyrics reflect warmly on the great times shared and express a desire to maintain that connection.
The chorus also reminds us to treasure life. A great funeral song to reflect on all the times you spent with your grandfather and reassure him that you’ll continue to push his legacy.
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel
Song year: 1964
Penned by Paul Simon and recorded solo by Art Garfunkel, “Bridge Over Troubled Water” is a ballad about comforting somebody in distress. Despite the gloomy vibe of the track, it’s undoubtedly the most successful track by the American folk duo.
This track is relatable to anybody in grief as it reassures them that the deceased only depart in body and not spirit. This funeral tune also embodies hope beyond difficult times.
“Peace In The Valley” by Johnny Cash
Song year: 2014
We all desire tranquility in our lives. Unfortunately, regardless of how hard we try to find serenity, we’re constantly unsettled by life’s everyday challenges.
Thomas Dorsey originally composed the iconic ballad “There’ll Be Peace In The Valley for Me” for Mahalia Jackson. Johnny Cash’s rendition honors the calm that follows a fruitful and long life. A popular funeral song for its consolation message that your beloved is in a better place with God.
“Life Without You” by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble
Song year: 1985
“Life Without You” is a track Stevie composed following the tragic death of his mentor and best friend, Charley Wirz. The song demonstrates Stervie’s affection for Charley and how badly he misses him.
A great funeral song to pay tribute to your deceased grandfather and let him know how empty you feel without him.
“Believe” by Brooks & Dunn
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5z-jjWyAJQ
Song year: 2005
Although the country music duo of Brooks & Dunn is renowned for upbeat tracks, they also released hearty tunes. “Believe” is a sad acoustic ballad where a guy reflects on his youth and the time spent with his neighbor, who’s a widower.
Wavering faith is common in trying times, particularly after losing a loved one. However, this song reassures you why you need to keep your faith up.
“Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd
Song year: 1975
“Wish You Were Here” is about the detachment many of us experience through life. It’s a statement on how people struggle emotionally, mentally, and physically with reality. The track’s primary inspiration was Syd Barrett, founder member of Pink Floyd, and his struggle with schizophrenia.
This longing is also common after losing a loved one. If you want to listen to some consoling words, play this during your grandpa’s memorial.
“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
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OV5_LQArLa0
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
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqhCQZaH4Vs
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.
“How To Say Goodbye” by Michael Smith
Song year: 2006
“How To Say Goodbye” is the fourth track from Michael Smith’s 12th album, Stand. This soulful Christian tune focuses on the theme of separation, where the singer finds it hard to let go.
Listening to this tune, you can feel the pain in his words, a common emotion during grief. Play this classic at your grandpa’s funeral to allow the procession to mourn deeply.
“Grandpa Told Me So” by Kenny Chesney
Song year: 1995
“Grandpa Told Me So” is a country ballad co-written by Dean Hicks and Alan Springer. Kenny Chesney recorded the track as part of his third studio album, All I Need to Know. The tune peaked at #23 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart.
Lyrically, the singer reminisces about his grandfather’s teaching and the times they shared. A great funeral song to relieve the old memories.
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye
Song year: 1967
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” is the track that introduced many to the renowned Marvin Gaye and vocalist Tammi Terrell. Although the song has deep Gospel roots, it heavily borrows inspiration from the pursuit of love.
This upbeat song preaches persistence and perseverance. Play this track if you’d like to honor your grandfather with a song that shows you’re ready to take on life and continue where they left off.
“See You On The Other Side” by Ozzy Osbourne
Song year: 1995
“See You On The Other Side” is the fifth track from Osbourne’s seventh studio album, Ozzmosis. Lyrically, the tune focuses on the pain the death of a loved one causes the surviving persons.
Despite this gloomy element, the track also features a hopeful tone, where the singer is certain that he’ll meet his beloved again. A great consolation song at your grandpa’s funeral as it highlights the promise of the afterlife.
“Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Milder
Song year: 1988
Bette Milder’s “Wind Beneath My Wings” is a catchy ballad featuring smooth vocals and hearty words. Although it was initially a love song, the lyrics turned out more universal. In the song, Milder passionately praises those who supported her in times of need.
Everybody needs a shoulder to lean and cry on during mourning, which makes this song a common selection at funerals. It’s like a prayer to God to give you the strength to move on.
“Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole
Song year: 1951
Nat King Cole’s “Unforgettable” is a timeless vocal jazz special, probably reflecting the pinnacle of his wonderful music. Cole recorded this song as a tribute to his deceased father.
Let your grandfather know you’ll always keep him at heart by playing this tune at his funeral.
“Fix You” by Coldplay
Song year: 2005
“Fix You” featured on Coldplay’s third studio album, X&Y. Nearly two decades later, this tune can still capture and carry you on a nostalgic journey across your most emotional memories.
The song talks about mourning and accepting the death of a loved one. Let everybody grieving your grandfather know you’re united in grief by playing this tune at his memorial.
“Hero” by Sturgill Simpson
Song year: 2013
Sturgill Simpson is one artist who’s not shy of experimenting with his musical style and composing lyrics firmly rooted in real life. “Hero” is the eighth track from his debut studio album, High Top Mountain.
On “Hero,” Simpson honors his granddad for helping him through tough times. If you share a similar experience, the lyrics will be quite relatable.
“The Long & Winding Road” by The Beatles
Song year: 1970
“The Long & Winding Road” is a sad tune that focuses on the unachievable. Paul McCartney penned this track in response to conflicts within the band. However, this tension didn’t prevent it from becoming a major hit. Since death often makes one feel hopeless, this is a befitting funeral song for your grandpa.
“Sunshine On My Shoulders” by John Denver
Song year: 1971
“Sunshine On My Shoulders” by John Denver proves that even the worst tragedies pass. Denver claims he initially set out to pen a sad song after enduring a harsh winter.
However, the track turned out to become a hearty ballad about embracing the simple things in life. Play this at your grandpa’s funeral to give mourners hope for brighter days.
“Drops Of Jupiter” by Train
Song year: 2001
Saddened by the death of his mother from cancer, Train’s frontman Pat Monahan penned “Drops Of Jupiter.” The song featured on the band’s second album as the lead single.
The song’s theme of the afterlife is consoling for anybody grieving a beloved. A great song to bring out the deepest emotions during your grandfather’s funeral.
“We’ll Meet Again” by Vera Lynn
Song year: 1939
“We’ll Meet Again” by Vera Lynn gained popularity during World War II, resonating with troops forced to abandon their families to fight for England. The track features uplifting lyrics and a touching melody, thanks to Lynn’s distinctive voice. Its popularity makes it a common section at funerals globally.
Best Funeral Songs For A Grandpa, Final Thoughts
While losing your grandfather can be quite difficult, music can help express these emotions. These funeral songs for a grandpa symbolize the unbreakable tie you enjoyed and how much he meant to you. Whether your grandfather loved country, jazz, or gospel music, you can find great songs to honor him from our selection.