I know your wife was your everything, my condolences. If you’re looking for a song for her funeral, my hope is that I can provide you with some below. Have a look through and see which best conveys the way you feel.
Here are the best funeral songs for a wife.
“I’ll Be Missing You” by Faith Evans and Sean Combs
Song Year: 1997
First is the song “I’ll Be Missing You,” which is a tribute to the late rapper Biggie. Faith Evans was his widow after he passed away in 1994.
This heartfelt R&B option shows how hard it is to deal with loss and how many ways you can miss your loved ones.
“Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0iAzMRKFX3c
Song Year: 1988
Try a piece from the iconic Bette Midler for a more classic, uplifting option. This pop song from the 80s is a tribute to how much a loved one can do for us, and it shows how love motivates us.
It’s a slow song with depth and emotion in Midler’s voice. Her deep voice with the piano makes for a moving melody.
“Candle In The Wind” by Elton John
Song Year: 1973
One famous song for memorials is Elton John’s “Candle In The Wind.” Elton John originally composed it after the death of Marilyn Monroe, but it also has connections to Princess Diana’s passing.
Either way, it’s a well-known song symbolizing the passing of beautiful, powerful women gone too soon.
“HYD” by Hayley Williams
Song Year: 2021
For a modern funeral song for a wife, you can consider “HYD” by Hayley Williams. Williams is best known as the lead singer for Paramore, but she has some solo pieces like this song.
This soft song is a simple option with lyrics centered around wondering how loved ones are doing after you stop seeing them, whether through death or other means.
“No One But You (Only The Good Die Young)” by Queen
Song Year: 1999
One powerful song to remember loved ones suddenly lost is “No One But You” by Queen. The guitarist of Queen, Brian May, wrote this piece as a tribute to the singer Freddie Mercury after dying of AIDs.
It describes how challenging it can be to accept the loss of someone unexpectedly. At the same time, it reminds us that you will forever remember your loved ones and have them with you.
“I’ll Be Seeing You” by Billie Holiday
Song Year: 1944
If you’re searching for a classic song with lots of emotion, you can try “I’ll Be Seeing You” by Billie Holiday. The jazz melody mentions how everything can remind us of the people important to us.
Holiday’s voice is melancholic yet beautiful as she sings. This song also has covers by other musicians if you’d like a more modern take on the same lyrics.
“One Sweet Day” by Boyz II Men and Mariah Carey
Song Year: 1995
Another pop or R&B option is the song “One Sweet Day,” a collaborative piece between Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men. Both artists worked together to create a work everyone can relate to when they’re missing someone they’ve lost.
The song covers missing a loved one and having regrets about their departure.
“I Follow You into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie
Song Year: 2006
Next is a soft, modern song that falls into the indie or folk category. This song by Death Cab for Cutie is complicated and speaks freely about death.
The lyrics describe the urge to be there for your loved ones as they pass. It’s a song about love that lasts past death.
“November Rain” by Guns N’ Roses
Song Year: 1991
One option for a funeral song for a wife is “November Rain” from the rock legends Gun N’ Roses. Although this song is a bit more about a breakup than death, the lyrics can fit either situation.
Overall, the melody talks about how people come and go in our lives. It’s a reminder that while you may have lost one person, you still have other loved ones who need you.
“Mama Liked the Roses” by Elvis Presley
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6uf_ObZQ6Q
Song Year: 1969
If your late wife was also a mother or a big Elvis Presley fan, “Mama Liked the Roses” may be an appropriate option. Presley wrote this song to commemorate his mother, and the soft melody features his well-known, deep voice.
It’s a song that describes how his mother grew roses in life and still represents her in death. Songs about motherhood can be powerful ways to remember the lasting effects of our moms.
“Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion
Song Year: 1998
Celine Dion is known for her emotional vocals, and “Because You Loved Me” is a rock or pop ballad song. The lyrics describe how the love of someone important can help shape you.
It’s a powerful way to remember the defining moments you’ve had with your loved one.
“You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban
Song Year: 2003
Josh Groban has another song to remind us of the power that our loved ones can give us. “You Raise Me Up” is a folk or pop song describing how you can overcome obstacles with the help of love.
The song isn’t necessarily about loss, but it does have lyrics about how reflection can bring another person’s spirit to you when you’re in a time of need.
“Spirit in the Sky” by Norman Greenbaum
Song Year: 1969
You can try “Spirit in the Sky” by Norman Greenbaum for a slightly more religious song. The lyrics center around heading to heaven or paradise after death.
It’s a relatively upbeat melody, and it may be an uplifting, hopeful song in your time of need.
“In My Life” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1965
Another song with a slightly uplifting sound, “In My Life” by The Beatles, is still very reflective. It focuses on how there are moments, places, and people in our lives that have profound impacts on us.
It’s a fitting funeral song for a wife because it still stresses how the subject is the most significant part of your life.
“Not a Day Goes By” by Lonestar
Song Year: 2001
Country music fans may recognize Lonestar, and “Not a Day Goes By” is one of their better-known songs.
Although this song was about a breakup, the lyrics fit the death of a loved one appropriately. They speak about constantly thinking about and missing the one who is gone.
“Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd
Song Year: 1975
Another rock legend, Pink Floyd, wrote this soft, simple melody in 1975. It comprises longing guitar riffs with crooning vocals.
The main message of the song is in the title, “Wish You Were Here.” Pink Floyd explores how challenging it can be to want someone who isn’t currently around.
“Like You’ll Never See Me Again” by Alicia Keys
Song Year: 2007
Alicia Keys has an expressive voice in this pop and soul song, “Like You’ll Never See Me Again.” The lyrics don’t focus on the loss of someone but remind you to cherish the moments you have.
It’s a melody to remind the listeners that you may never know when you’ll lose someone, but to enjoy the time you have with them.
“Everybody Hurts” by R.E.M.
Song Year: 1992
Grief can be overwhelming, but R.E.M. reminds us that you’re not alone when dealing with your emotions. “Everybody Hurts” is a song to help you through challenging times, no matter the situation.
R.E.M. uses this melody to tell the listener to keep going. The slow song conveys hurt feelings while having hopeful lyrics.
“Jealous of the Angels” by Donna Taggart
Song Year: 2013
If you’re searching for a religious song, you may like Donna Taggart’s “Jealous of the Angels.” It covers how hard it can be to lose someone suddenly and how it can be challenging to be left behind.
The country song reminds the listener to have strength in believing that their loved one is now being cared for above.
“Follow The Sun” by Xavier Rudd
Song Year: 2012
While this song isn’t about death or loved ones, it can be a hopeful song for funerals. Xavier Rudd’s “Follow The Sun” is a simple reminder that there is always a new day and opportunity coming.
Overall, it’s a way to focus on the positive in life. Although death is a necessary part of the cycle, we can remember that the moment will pass.
“Forever Young” by Rod Stewart
Song Year: 1988
“Forever Young” is an incredibly famous song, one you may have heard before. It’s an impressive fusion between rock and soul, and it was initially a heartfelt melody for children.
Still, the lyrics can apply to multiple situations. For funerals, it can be a powerful reminder that you can keep someone alive in your memories.
“When I Get Where I’m Going” by Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton
Song Year: 2005
Another country song with some religious themes, “When I Get Where I’m Going” by Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton, helps us deal with loss by remembering that death is part of everyone’s journey.
“Wherever You Will Go” by The Calling
Song Year: 2001
Deep vocals characterize this grunge and rock song from The Calling. “Wherever You Will Go” is a longing song that describes the desire to always be with your loved one.
It’s an appropriate song to show the difficulty of being apart from your recently lost partner. The music is calming and emotional to match the needs of a funeral.
“How Can I Help You Say Goodbye” by Patty Loveless
Song Year: 1993
Here’s a simple country option by Patty Loveless. “How Can I Help You Say Goodbye” recounts the stories of multiple personal losses, and it helps to show that life is a series of ups and downs.
Though times may be harsh, all you can do is accept the feelings and try to say goodbye with the help of your other loved ones.
“There You’ll Be” by Faith Hill
Song Year: 2001
Next is the pop song “There You’ll Be” by Faith Hill. The emotional piece is similar to a ballad and describes how a loved one is still with us after they’re gone.
It details how you can have memories and moments throughout your day that will keep your lost loved one with you.
“When I’m Gone” by Joey + Rory
Song Year: 2012
Joey + Rory are a husband and wife country duo, and they wrote “When I’m Gone” to show the intense emotions of losing a loved one. The singer, Joey Feek, died after a battle with cervical cancer.
This song about a wife dying helps comfort the listener with the reminder that there is still more beauty in the world. The unique perspective from Feek may help you through your grief.
“Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan
Song Year: 1973
A rock song, “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door,”’ offers plenty of emotions in the few repeated lyrics. Bob Dylan is the original writer, and he offers a slightly softer version of the song than the favored rendition by Guns N’ Roses.
Whichever copy you prefer, this can be a funeral song for a wife with low, humming vocals to bring some peace.
“Go Rest High on That Mountain” by Vince Gill
Song Year: 1994
If your wife was religious, it may be fitting to honor her with a song about resting in heaven. “Go Rest High on That Mountain” by Vince Gill is a respectful country hymn about our loved ones returning to peace.
“Like a River” by Carly Simon
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=leQhz8oIYRQ
Song Year: 1994
Many wives lost were also mothers, and the song “Like a River” by Carly Simon is from the perspective of a daughter losing her mother. Although the lyrics pertain to that situation, they can still help everyone process grief.
The song describes how people lost can still watch over the ones they care about, and one day they will reunite.
“One More Day” by Diamond Rio
Song Year: 2001
Diamond Rio voices a simple request that many people feel after they lose a loved one. “One More Day” is a song about wishing for that last day with your person.
Ultimately, the song discusses how a single day could never be enough. Still, it doesn’t stop the desire for more time. It’s a relatable melody to help you through your loss.
“I’ll See You Again” by Westlife
Song Year: 2009
Next is a religious option that centers around the idea that you’ll meet your lost ones again after death. Westlife’s song “I’ll See You Again” also describes how you can experience the presence and strength of another person even after they’re gone.
“Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen
Song Year: 1984
Another song with religious tones, “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen, isn’t necessarily about loss. However, it does have a powerful emotion behind the lyrics and is incredibly moving.
You may be more familiar with the covers of “Hallelujah,” including one by Pentatonix. There are multiple variations of the song, so you can find one that best fits your service.
“Remember When” by Alan Jackson
Song Year: 2003
For a heartfelt country song, you can try “Remember When” by Alan Jackson. The lyrics tell the tale of a romance from the beginning as young adults, through marriage and children, to the end.
It’s a song that may remind you of your past with your wife and help you remember the happy moments during your tough times.
“Supermarket Flowers” by Ed Sheeran
Song Year: 2017
If you’d like a modern option, Ed Sheeran’s “Supermarket Flowers” may work for you. Sheeran is a top pop artist who uses soft vocals and acoustics.
This song fits wives who were mothers, as it was for his grandmother after her passing.
“The Dance” by Garth Brooks
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYhnFvxTjok
Song Year: 1989
A classic country song, “The Dance” by Garth Brooks, shows how the pain of loss is ultimately worth it. In the lyrics, he describes how he could never have felt the pain of losing his partner without the pleasure of dancing. It’s a fitting song about how life can be bittersweet.
“Halo” by Beyoncé
Song Year: 2008
Beyoncé is a cultural icon, and her soft vocals show emotion in this soul-like pop song. Although it’s not about loss, “Halo” describes intense love for a partner. The meaning of the lyrics and tone of the piece can be appropriate for a funeral.
“Heaven Was Needing a Hero” by Jo Dee Messina
Song Year: 2010
Finally, “Heaven Was Needing a Hero” by Jo Dee Messina is a religious song to remember that your loss may have a purpose. Although it can be demanding to manage grief, you’ll always have your loved one with you.
Best Funeral Songs For A Wife, Final Thoughts
Music can be a powerful way to express emotions, and listening to those feelings is a way to process your own. You’re not alone as you deal with the loss of your loved one, and these songs help prove it.
The loss is hard enough, and hopefully, this selection can ease the burden of finding a funeral song for a wife.