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Goodbye

And I wonder where you are And if the pain ends when you die And I wonder if there was Some better way to say goodbye

~ Patty Griffin, from Goodbye

Patty Griffin - Flaming Red - Goodbye

Into The West

Don't say, we have come now to the end. White shores are calling. You and I will meet again. And you'll be here in my arms, Just sleeping.

~ Annie Lennox, from Into The West

Howard Shore & Annie Lennox - The Lord of the Rings - The Return of the King - Into the West

I'll Remember

And I'll remember the strength that you gave me Now that I'm standing on my own I'll remember the way that you saved me I'll remember

~ Madonna, from I'll Remember

Madonna - Something to Remember - I'll Remember (Theme from the Motion Picture "With Honors")
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Memorial Tribute Site

Virtual Respectful Memorials

Choosing A Funeral Song

Funerals memorialize a loved one, provide a venue for grief and celebration and capture the life story of someone who has passed on.  Much of the emotion and energy put into a funeral service comes out in the music selected for the service.

Selecting A Funeral Song
Memorial service music does not fit into any one category. The songs selected should capture the emotions and memories of the family as well as friends and acquaintances. It should also be aligned with something the deceased would have liked. Many times music is selected that expresses the personality or likes of the person that has passed on.

When choosing a funeral song or piece of music, consult people closest to the deceased to make sure it is in line with their wishes. If you decide to choose a non-traditional song, it may be a good idea to briefly have the reading behind the song explained during the service.

Usually one or two songs are specifically selected for a funeral or memorial service, either sung by someone chosen by the family or played over a stereo system during a viewing. Continuous music is not necessary throughout the service but perhaps a few simple instrumental pieces would be helpful to play at the start and end of the service.

Ask For Help
A funeral director or minister can help you make a music selection if the choice seems to daunting. Remember that just like the flowers, eulogy and poetry used in a funeral service, the music should come from the heart and be a true expression of grief, condolence and peace.