17 Best Elvis Songs for a Funeral: Elvis for Memorials

As we explore the emotional depths of Elvis Presley’s discography, this guide uncovers the 17 most poignant tracks that elegantly walk the line between remembrance and celebration, making them ideal for funerals.

Let’s dive into the timeless artistry of The King together.

Here are the best Elvis songs for a funeral that you can check out:

List Of Best Elvis songs for a funeral

Best Elvis songs for a funeral in a list format:

1. “Can’t Help Falling in Love”

From the album “Blue Hawaii” (1961), this song is one of Elvis’s most famous ballads. Its tender, heartfelt lyrics capture the essence of enduring love, making it a perfect tribute to remember loved ones.

2. “Always on My Mind”

Though originally recorded by Brenda Lee, Elvis’s poignant rendition on the album “Separate Ways” (1972) breathes a fresh, emotional depth into the song. Its theme of regret and longing resonates at times of loss.

3. “Memories”

This touching tune from the 1968 NBC TV Special “Elvis” encapsulates nostalgia and the bitter-sweetness of looking back on treasured memories, making it a fitting choice for a funeral service.

4. “In the Ghetto”

A heartfelt narrative from the album “From Elvis in Memphis” (1969) that calls for compassion and understanding. Its message of life’s fragility can lend a layer of depth to memorial services.

5. “Peace in the Valley”

Originally a 1937 song written by Thomas A. Dorsey, Elvis’s version from the “Peace in the Valley” EP (1957) is imbued with a profound spiritual resonance, promising serenity in the afterlife.

6. “My Way”

A cover of Frank Sinatra’s iconic song, Elvis’s rendition from the album “Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite” (1973) carries a deeply personal resonance about living life fully and without regrets.

7. “If I Can Dream”

This uplifting anthem from the “Elvis” NBC TV Special (1968) serves as a beacon of hope and unity, symbolizing a dream for a better world.

8. “Bridge Over Troubled Water”

Elvis’s soulful cover of Simon & Garfunkel’s masterpiece from the album “That’s the Way It Is” (1970) conveys a comforting message of support and strength in times of sorrow.

9. “You’ll Never Walk Alone”

This uplifting song from the album “You’ll Never Walk Alone” (1971) delivers a strong message of solace and companionship, reminding us that we’re never truly alone.

10. “Amazing Grace”

From the album “He Touched Me” (1972), this timeless hymn has been used at funerals for decades. Elvis’s heartfelt rendition resonates with peace and acceptance.

11. “How Great Thou Art”

The title track from Elvis’s 1967 gospel album is a comforting spiritual hymn that often echoes in times of mourning, instilling hope amid grief.

12. “His Hand in Mine”

The title track from the album “His Hand in Mine” (1960) is a reassuring gospel song, reaffirming faith in times of loss and sorrow.

13. “If I Can Dream”

A song from the 1968 NBC TV Special “Elvis”, it stands as a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and a testament to hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

14. “Love Me Tender”

Elvis’s signature ballad from the album “Elvis Presley” (1956), is a heartfelt proclamation of love and loyalty, a sentiment that echoes the feelings at a funeral.

15. “Mansion over the Hilltop”

A beautiful gospel song from the album “His Hand in Mine” (1960), it gives listeners hope for a serene afterlife, resonating with themes of spiritual reunion.

16. “Take My Hand, Precious Lord”

From the album “His Hand in Mine” (1960), this gospel standard offers solace and guidance during trying times, making it a comforting choice for a funeral service.

17. “It’s Now or Never”

Based on the Italian ballad ‘O Sole Mio’, this track from the album “Elvis’ Golden Records Volume 3” (1963) is a beautiful reminder to seize the day and cherish our loved ones.

Fun Facts: Best J Cole Songs

“Can’t Help Falling in Love”

“Can’t Help Falling in Love” was featured in Elvis’s 1961 film, “Blue Hawaii”. Despite being over 60 years old, the song remains popular and has been covered by numerous artists like UB40 and Twenty One Pilots.

“Always on My Mind”

Originally recorded by Brenda Lee in 1972, “Always on My Mind” is better known for Elvis’s version, which he recorded only a few weeks after Lee’s version. Willie Nelson later covered the song and won three Grammy awards for his interpretation.

“In the Ghetto”

“In the Ghetto” marked a major shift in Elvis’s career, as it was one of his first socially-conscious songs. It tells a powerful story about the cycle of poverty, reflecting Elvis’s upbringing in Tupelo, Mississippi.

“My Way”

Elvis sang “My Way” live for the first time in Honolulu during his 1973 “Aloha from Hawaii” concert. This was the first entertainment special to be broadcast live around the world.

“Bridge Over Troubled Water”

Even though Simon & Garfunkel’s original version is well-known, Elvis’s interpretation is renowned for its emotional depth. He received a standing ovation after performing it in Las Vegas in 1970.

“Amazing Grace”

While not traditionally associated with Elvis, his rendition of “Amazing Grace” is actually one of the most streamed gospel songs of his entire discography.

“Love Me Tender”

“Love Me Tender” was originally titled “Aura Lee”, a Civil War ballad. The song was renamed and lyrics were modified for Elvis’s 1956 movie, which was also titled “Love Me Tender”.

“It’s Now or Never”

“It’s Now or Never” is one of Elvis’s best-selling singles with sales exceeding 20 million copies worldwide. It is an adaptation of the Italian song “O Sole Mio”.

We’ve journeyed through Elvis’s timeless discography, discovering songs that pay beautiful tribute to those we’ve lost.

Celebrate, remember, and let The King’s music touch your heart in times of sorrow.

Thanks for reading.

TBone