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 lines in the newspaper say,
But how many were sorry when he passed away?

There are many songs, poems and readings suitable for funerals 'out there' on the internet. Try Googling funeral poems or funeral songs. However, we supply a small, free booklet containing a sample. Your celebrant will be happy to read these or any others that you choose.

People sometimes struggle for ideas when choosing music. It is good if you can make it relevant in some way to the deceased; a favourite song, piece of music or even a quotation. For information, the most popular songs and hymns for funeral are given here:

Some Popular Songs for Funerals

1. My Way Frank Sinatra/Shirley Bassey
2. Wind Beneath My Wings B Midler/Celine Dion
3. Time To Say Goodbye Sarah Brightman/A Bocelli
4. Angels Robbie Williams
5. Over The Rainbow Eva Cassidy
6. You Raise Me Up Westlife/Boyzone/Josh Grobin
7. My Heart Will Go On Celine Dion
8. I Will Always Love You Whitney Houston
9. You’ll Never Walk Alone Gerry and the Pacemakers
10. Unforgettable Nat King Cole

    Some Popular Hymns for Funerals

11. The Lord Is My Shepherd
12. Abide With Me
13. All Things Bright And Beautiful
14. Old Rugged Cross
15. Amazing Grace
16. How Great Thou Art
17. The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, Is Ended
18. Jerusalem
19. Make Me A Channel Of Your Peace
20. Morning Has Broken

Suggestion: Choose a hymn that is generally well known. There is little worse than people trying to sing when they don't know the tune or the words.