Funeral Poem – Afterglow by Helen Lowrie Marshall
Read by Marc Lemezma – Funeral Celebrant in Maidstone.
Poetry plays an essential role in modern funeral services, particularly where the deceased was not especially religious.
There are many beautiful poems, both classic and modern, that can be used in place of a Bible reading or prayer.
Your celebrant will help guide your choice of suitable poetry and make suggestions from their own experience.
You should choose a poem because it speaks to some element of your loved one’s life, character or temperament, or if it was a piece they liked themselves.
Afterglow by Helen Lowrie Marshall is a very popular poem for funerals. I used it recently at a funeral for a lady who loved the sun and having happy times with friends.
You’ll understand why I suggested it when you hear it.
I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one.
I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done.
I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways,
Of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days.
I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun;
Of happy memories that I leave when life is done.
Poetry is written to be shared, read and heard.
Can I share or use this poetry?
The poems I share on my website or social media are original or are regularly used at funerals and are presented to aid those researching poetry for use at their loved one's funeral service.. Wherever known, I do give credit and thanks to the author. If you know the author of any I have marked as ‘unknown’, then let me know, and I will amend the page.
If you chose to share or use the poetry at a funeral or memorial service, please give the author credit.
Many of these poems are original to me; please feel free to share those or use them if they seem right for your service. All I ask is that you give credit to me as the author.