Readings are a standard fixture of memorial services organized by funeral homes in Marlton, NJ. They can be from religious or non-religious texts, like poems.
Poems allow us to express our emotions in short but impactful words. Here are some examples to consider if you want to share some of those feelings at your dad’s funeral.
1. Not, How Did He Die, But How Did He Live? – Summer Sandercox
Not, how did he die, but how did he live?
Not, what did he gain, but what did he give?
These are the units to measure the worth
Of a man as a man, regardless of his birth.
Nor what was his church, nor what was his creed?
But had he befriended those really in need?
Was he ever ready, with words of good cheer, To bring back a smile, to banish a tear? Not what did the sketch in the newspaper say, But how many were sorry when he passed away?
2. My Father, My Father – Dakota Ellerton
My father, my father,
I love him,
my father, my father,
made me see,
how beautiful this world really can be.
My father, my father,
said to me,
my daughter my daughter,
come see me,
I won’t be around forever, and I have things that must be.
My father, my father,
don’t die on me.
3. His Journey’s Just Begun – Ellen Brenneman
Don’t think of him as gone away
his journey’s just begun,
life holds so many facets
this earth is only one.
Just think of him as resting
from the sorrows and the tears
in a place of warmth and comfort
where there are no days and years.
Think how he must be wishing
that we could know today
how nothing but our sadness
can really pass away.
And think of him as living
in the hearts of those he touched…
for nothing loved is ever lost
and he was loved so much.
4. To My Father – Georgia Harkness
A giant pine, magnificent and old
Stood staunch against the sky and all around
Shed beauty, grace, and power.
Within its fold birds safely reared their young.
The velvet ground beneath was gentle,
and the cooling shade gave cheer to passers-by.
Its towering arms a landmark stood, erect and unafraid,
As if to say, “Fear naught from life’s alarms”.
It fell one day.
Where it had dauntless stood was loneliness and void.
But men who passed paid tribute – and said,
“To know this life was good,
It left its mark on me. Its work stands fast”.
And so it lives. Such life no bonds can hold –
This giant pine is magnificent and old.
5. You Were There – Unknown Author
You were there when we took our first steps,
And went unsteadily across the floor.
You pushed and prodded: encouraged and guided,
Until our steps took us out the door…
You worry now “Are they ok?”
Is there more you could have done?
As we walk the paths of our unknown
You wonder “Where have my children gone?”
Where we are is where you have led us,
With your special love, you showed us a way,
To believe in ourselves and the decisions we make.
Taking on the challenge of life day-to-day.
And where we go you can be sure,
In spirit, you shall never be alone.
For where you are is what matters most to us,
Because to us that will always be home…
Losing a father is never easy, and finding the right words to honor him in grief is even harder. We hope these poems help loosen your tongue.
Are you still planning the memorial service? Whether you’re planning a burial with a funeral home in Marlton, NJ, or traditional cremation, you may have to choose a casket. Reach out to us if you need the help of a funeral home in Marlton, NJ. We can incorporate these poems into the program in unique ways. Call us now to get started or if you have additional questions.