Funeral Songs for Dad: The Best Choices to Honor His Memory

Choosing the right songs for a father’s funeral is a meaningful way to reflect his life, values, and the love shared. Whether he was known for his deep faith, love of classic rock, or uplifting spirit, the right music can create a fitting tribute. Below are curated song lists categorized to help you find the best choices for honoring your dad.

See related: Funeral Songs for Mom

In This Article

Classical and Religious Songs

For dads who valued their faith or appreciated classical music, these selections provide a traditional, reflective atmosphere perfect for honoring his spiritual life and legacy.

“Ave Maria” by Franz Schubert or Bach/Gounod – A serene and spiritual classic.
“How Great Thou Art” (traditional) – A powerful hymn of faith.
“The Lord’s Prayer” by Andrea Bocelli – A moving, classic religious piece.
“Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel – Known for its calming, timeless melody.
“Nearer, My God, to Thee” (traditional) – A hymn of devotion and closeness.
“Pie Jesu” by Andrew Lloyd Webber – Expresses peace and comfort.
“Requiem” by Gabriel Fauré – A choral work that provides solace.
“Lacrimosa” from Mozart’s Requiem – Deeply moving and solemn.
“Amazing Grace” (traditional) – A timeless hymn representing grace and redemption.
“Be Still, My Soul” (traditional) – A piece that brings peace and reflection.

Sentimental and Heartfelt Ballads

These songs evoke warm memories and reflect the deep bond shared between father and child, capturing the love and admiration felt for him.

“The Living Years” by Mike + The Mechanics – A song about reflection and missed moments.
“Dance with My Father” by Luther Vandross – A touching ballad about cherished memories.
“You’ll Be in My Heart” by Phil Collins – A song of love and connection.
“Hero” by Mariah Carey – Recognizes a father’s strength and courage.
“Father and Son” by Cat Stevens – A classic about generational understanding.
“Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton – A poignant song about loss and longing.
“He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” by The Hollies – A song of love and loyalty.
“My Way” by Frank Sinatra – A reflection on a life lived fully and confidently.
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel – A song about support and care.
“A Song for Dad” by Keith Urban – A song about admiration and love.

Songs for Dad About Gratitude and Legacy

For honoring your father’s legacy and the lessons he imparted, these songs express gratitude and recognition of his impact on your life.

“Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler – A tribute to his unwavering support.
“Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion – A song of gratitude for his influence.
“Thank You for Being My Dad” by Jon Barker – A song dedicated to fatherly love.
“Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd – A reminder of his life lessons and values.
“In My Life” by The Beatles – A song acknowledging treasured memories.
“Song for Dad” by Keith Urban – Celebrates the lessons and love of a father.
“Leader of the Band” by Dan Fogelberg – A song that honors a father’s legacy.
“The Best Day” by Taylor Swift – A song full of memories and appreciation.
“I’ll Be Seeing You” by Billie Holiday – A song of remembrance and nostalgia.
“Forever Young” by Rod Stewart – A wish for enduring memories and love.

Uplifting and Celebratory Songs for a Dad

These songs are ideal for a celebration of life, honoring the joy and positivity your father brought to those around him.

“What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong – Highlights the beauty of life.
“You’ve Got a Friend” by James Taylor – Celebrates his support and kindness.
“Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles – Represents hope and warmth.
“Lean on Me” by Bill Withers – A song of reliability and friendship.
“My Way” by Frank Sinatra – A song that reflects pride in life’s journey.
“You Are the Sunshine of My Life” by Stevie Wonder – A loving, joyful song.
“Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor – If he was known for strength and determination.
“I Will Remember You” by Sarah McLachlan – Cherishes shared moments.
“Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane – Evokes shared special places.
“Live Like You Were Dying” by Tim McGraw – A song about embracing life fully.

Modern and Contemporary Choices for a Hip Dad

For a more contemporary touch, these songs reflect modern sentiments and are perfect for honoring a dad in today’s world.

“Supermarket Flowers” by Ed Sheeran – A touching, modern goodbye.
“Dancing in the Sky” by Dani and Lizzy – Imagines peace in the afterlife.
“See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth – A song of reunion and remembrance.
“Memories” by Maroon 5 – Dedicated to holding onto memories.
“Photograph” by Ed Sheeran – Captures cherished memories.
“Wake Me Up When September Ends” by Green Day – Reflects loss and longing.
“Gone Too Soon” by Michael Jackson – A song about life’s fleeting nature.
“Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley (or Rufus Wainwright) – Deep and reflective.
“One Sweet Day” by Mariah Carey & Boyz II Men – About being together again.
“Song for Dad” by Keith Urban – Modern and personal tribute to a father’s love.

Country Songs for the Old Man

If your father had a love for country music, these songs speak to themes of love, loss, and remembrance with heartfelt storytelling and sincerity.

“Drive (For Daddy Gene)” by Alan Jackson – A tribute to fatherly lessons and memories.
“Daddy’s Hands” by Holly Dunn – Highlights the strength and love of a father.
“The Baby” by Blake Shelton – A moving song from a child’s perspective.
“He Didn’t Have to Be” by Brad Paisley – Perfect for stepdads and father figures.
“Love Without End, Amen” by George Strait – Celebrates unconditional fatherly love.
“My Old Man” by Zac Brown Band – A song about growing up and admiration.
“That’s My Job” by Conway Twitty – Reflects on a father’s dedication.
“A Father’s Love (The Only Way He Knew How)” by Bucky Covington – About expressing love through actions.
“There Goes My Life” by Kenny Chesney – A touching song about fatherhood.
“You’ll Be There” by George Strait – Talks about future reunions and peace.