Funeral poems for an auntie: memorial and sympathy verses
Explore 5 thoughtful choices for poems and verses to remember an auntie. All are suitable for readings, orders of service and written tributes.
An auntie can hold many roles in a family. For some people, she might feel like another parent – a trusted listener, a great storyteller and a source of laughter. Or, perhaps, simply the person who makes family gatherings feel warmer and more complete.
When planning a funeral or memorial service, many people look for readings that help express what can feel difficult to put into words. Poetry can reflect personality, shared memories or the lasting impact someone has had on their family and friends.
Below are some well-known verses suitable for remembering an auntie. You may wish to:
- Read one aloud during the service
- Include it in an order of service booklet
- Share it privately with family members
"Remember" by Christina Rossetti
This sombre poem by one of the finest English Romantic poets expresses how love lives on through remembrance.
Remember me when I am gone away,
Gone far away into the silent land;
When you can no more hold me by the hand,
Nor I half turn to go yet turning stay.
Remember me when no more day by day
You tell me of our future that you planned:
Only remember me; you understand
It will be late to counsel then or pray.
Yet if you should forget me for a while
And afterwards remember, do not grieve:
For if the darkness and corruption leave
A vestige of the thoughts that once I had,
Better by far you should forget and smile
Than that you should remember and be sad.
"Remember Me" by David Harkins
This verse has a tone of gratitude for the life of a loved one. It can be a reassuring and comforting choice for a funeral.
"You can shed tears that she is gone", it begins, "Or you can smile because she has lived."
Online, you might see this poem referred to as "She Is Gone".
"Afterglow" by Helen Lowrie Marshall
This gently celebratory verse is a good choice for an auntie who would want people to remember the laughter and happy times.
"Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep" by Mary Elizabeth Frye
This is one of the most famous poems of remembrance. Its comforting, reassuring message of love living on after death makes it an enduring popular choice for funerals.
"Let Me Go" by Christina Rossetti
Another of Rossetti's reflective memorial verses, this poem acknowledges the importance of grief while encouraging mourners to go on living fully.
When I come to the end of the road
And the sun has set for me
I want no rites in a gloom filled room
Why cry for a soul set free?
Miss me a little, but not for long
And not with your head bowed low
Remember the love that once we shared
Miss me, but let me go.
For this is a journey we all must take
And each must go alone.
It's all part of the master plan
A step on the road to home.
When you are lonely and sick at heart
Go to the friends we know.
Laugh at all the things we used to do
Miss me, but let me go.
Writing your own poem for an auntie
When someone else's words don't feel right, many people write their own short tribute.
You don't need to be a poet to write something meaningful – it doesn't even need to rhyme. If your auntie had a favourite saying or proverb, you might use this. You could also try writing about:
- A hobby or passion she had
- A list of her best qualities
- A list of what people admired about her
Alternatives to poetry
Poetry isn't the only option. There are many other ways to pay tribute or say goodbye to a person who has died.
Some people choose songs or hymns, or tell a particular story from the person's life. There are no rules for what you should or should not include when planning a funeral service. It's about what feels right for you.
Finding support when planning a funeral
When planning a funeral, some people already have clear ideas about how they would like to say goodbye. Others prefer guidance and support while considering their options.
Akshardham Funeral Directors supports families of all faiths and backgrounds, helping you plan a service that reflects personal wishes, traditions and values.
While poetry may not capture a person's entire life, it can offer a moment of reflection and shared remembrance.
Do you need support to plan a funeral service in London? Our lines are always open. Please call whenever you're ready on 020 8355 7876.
