By The Tribute Plan Editorial Team · Reviewed June 2026
Honoring a grandfather often means reaching for the music of his generation — a hymn from his church, a Sinatra standard, or the country songs that played in his workshop. The selections below are frequently chosen to remember a grandpa, from "How Great Thou Art" and "The Old Rugged Cross" to "My Way" and "Go Rest High on That Mountain."
A grandfather's service can be both reverent and celebratory. Consider a dignified hymn or instrumental for reflection, and a stronger, character-filled song — the kind he'd have wanted — for the recessional.
Preview any song below and add your favorites to a complete order of service with our free Funeral Songs Picker. Save it, share it with family, and print a run sheet for the officiant and musicians.
Amazing Grace — Traditional (1779) · 4:10 · Hymn, Hopeful, Pre-1960s. The most-requested funeral hymn; near-universally known and easy for any congregation to sing.
Go Rest High on That Mountain — Vince Gill (1995) · 5:27 · Country, Sorrowful, 80s–90s. Written by Gill after losing his brother; arguably the definitive country funeral song.
How Great Thou Art — Traditional (1885) · 4:05 · Hymn, Hopeful, Pre-1960s. A soaring hymn of awe; a frequent closing song that lifts the room.
My Way — Frank Sinatra (1969) · 4:34 · Jazz, Nostalgic, 60s–70s. The signature “lived life on my own terms” anthem; a frequent send-off.
What a Wonderful World — Louis Armstrong (1967) · 2:20 · Jazz, Peaceful, 60s–70s. A grateful look at life’s simple beauty; perfect for a celebration of life.
The Old Rugged Cross — Traditional (1912) · 4:15 · Hymn, Nostalgic, Pre-1960s. A beloved old hymn, especially meaningful for traditional congregations.
Great Is Thy Faithfulness — Traditional (1923) · 3:55 · Hymn, Hopeful, Pre-1960s. A hymn of steadfast comfort, well suited to honoring a long, faithful life.
If Heaven Wasn't So Far Away — Justin Moore (2011) · 3:35 · Country, Sorrowful, 2010s+. Longs for one more visit with those we’ve lost; resonates with many families.
When I Get Where I’m Going — Brad Paisley (2005) · 4:11 · Country, Hopeful, 2000s. Pictures heaven free of pain and burden; comforting and uplifting.
Humble and Kind — Tim McGraw (2016) · 3:40 · Country, Nostalgic, 2010s+. A parent’s life advice in song; fitting for someone remembered for their character.
Daddy's Hands — Holly Dunn (1986) · 3:20 · Country, Nostalgic, 80s–90s. A daughter’s tribute to her father; a natural choice for a dad or grandfather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good funeral song for a grandfather?
Frequent choices include "How Great Thou Art," "My Way" by Frank Sinatra, "The Old Rugged Cross," and "Go Rest High on That Mountain." Pick music that reflects his faith, era, and personality.
What is a good instrumental for a grandfather’s service?
Dignified instrumentals like "Nimrod" by Elgar, "Canon in D," or "Air on the G String" suit a formal, reflective service and need no vocals.
How do we choose between a hymn and a secular song?
Match the music to your grandfather’s beliefs and the tone you want. Many families use one hymn for the congregation and one secular favorite for the slideshow or recessional.