Daniel O'Donnell funeral songs: 14 comforting songs and hymns
Daniel O'Donnell's music has a comforting, nostalgic style that suits many funerals. Explore 14 suitable songs and hymns from his catalogue.
There's a reason Daniel O'Donnell's music is so popular at funerals in the UK and Ireland. With his trademark blend of American country, Irish ballads and Christian devotional music, he has a warmth and appeal that spans countries and generations.
Perhaps you're organising a funeral for a Daniel O'Donnell fan. Or maybe you simply think O'Donnell's music would be a good fit for the service.
In any case, we're here to help. In this guide, we share 14 Daniel O'Donnell songs that are suitable for a funeral. We've included well-known songs, lesser-known tracks and a few of the singer's distinctive takes on Christian hymns.
Popular Daniel O'Donnell funeral songs
In this section, you'll find some of the most popular Daniel O'Donnell songs for funerals in the UK and Ireland.
1. Beyond the Rainbow's End
The classic Daniel O'Donnell funeral song. Sung from the perspective of a person who has died, it offers comfort to those loved ones who were left behind.
It's a song with a powerful and timeless message: while I may be gone for now, we will all meet again someday.
I have gone from sight, but I am waiting
Waiting just beyond the rainbow's end
I'm happy in this place that I have come to
Because I'm here with my forever friend
2. Footsteps
Like many Daniel O'Donnell songs, "Footsteps" has a Christian message. The singer cannot see Christ's footsteps, but he knows they're there – walking step by step alongside him through the good days and the bad.
Footsteps walking with me
Footsteps I cannot see
But every move I make and every step I take
I know they're there with me
3. My Forever Friend
This song might suit the funeral service of a spouse, sibling or close friend. As a funeral song, it takes on a double meaning: the "forever friend" might be Jesus, but it could also be the loved one you've lost.
He's my forever friend
My leave-me-never friend
From darkest night to rainbow's end
He's my forever friend
4. I Believe
"I Believe" was originally performed by Frankie Laine – a single that topped the UK charts for 18 weeks in 1953. With lyrics focusing on faith, hope and the beauty of life, Daniel O'Donnell's version is just as affecting as the original.
I believe above the storm the smallest prayer will still be heard
I believe that someone in the great somewhere hears every word
5. You Raise Me Up
Westlife's chart-topping "You Raise Me Up" is perhaps the best-known version in the UK and Ireland. Daniel O'Donnell's rendition, however, was released two years before, on his 2003 album At the End of the Day.
Of course, it's classic O'Donnell: hopeful, warm and with a touch of hymnal beauty.
You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains
You raise me up to walk on stormy seas
And I am strong when I am on your shoulders
You raise me up to more than I can be
Lesser-known (but still beautiful) Daniel O'Donnell songs for funerals
These are songs that O'Donnell's biggest fans might recognise. They're not as popular – but that doesn't make them any less powerful.
6. When Darkness Falls
"When Darkness Falls" is a hidden gem: a lesser-known Daniel O'Donnell song with a lovely, country-flavoured melody and a message that could resonate with anyone.
Somehow, when darkness falls, I feel you close to me
I never feel alone 'cause you are there
I see you in the stars that shine so brightly
I hear you in the stillness of the air
7. One Day at a Time
"One Day at a Time" is a country-gospel standard. It's about taking life's challenges one step at a time – and knowing that Jesus will be there to give strength when it's needed.
One day at a time, sweet Jesus
That's all I'm asking of you
Just give me the strength to do every day
What I have to do
8. Why Me Lord?
Another gospel standard – and a regular feature at Daniel O'Donnell concerts. Its lilting country feel and sincere message of faith make it a suitable choice for any Christian funeral service.
Lord help me, Jesus, I've wasted it
So help me, Jesus, I know what I am
But now that I know that I've needed you so
Help me, Jesus, my soul's in your hand
Daniel O'Donnell funeral hymns
As a devout and lifelong Catholic, Daniel O'Donnell has lent his uniquely warm voice to many classic Christian hymns. Here are a few performances that are perfectly suited to funerals.
- Abide With Me:
this was the UK's most-played funeral hymn in 2025. O'Donnell's version sounds characteristically tender and nostalgic.
(Watch on YouTube)
- Morning Has Broken:
this 1931 hymn has a hopeful feel, with lyrics suggesting a new day and the promise of eternal life.
(Watch on YouTube)
- Softly and Tenderly:
an American gospel hymn with themes of peace and coming home. It was famously sung at Martin Luther King's funeral.
(Watch on YouTube)
- Sweet Queen of Peace:
O'Donnell wrote this song after a pilgrimage to Medjugorje in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It would particularly suit a Catholic funeral.
(Watch on YouTube)
- Let There Be Peace:
another modern hymn – this time a cover of an original by the Irish-American singer Noel Henry. It has a gentle, optimistic feel.
(Watch on YouTube)
- How Great Thou Art: in O'Donnell's hands, this devotional classic takes on a warm, lilting feel inspired by American country music.
(Watch on YouTube)
Explore more funeral music ideas
Akshardham Funeral Directors is an independent funeral home based in London. We regularly share
funeral ideas
on our blog, including suggestions for songs and hymns.
If you didn't find what you need today, why not explore these song selections?
You might also find our funeral planning guides useful.
