Reading a memorable poem or passage from the Bible or other religious text is common during a funeral service. If you’re having a non-traditional memorial and want to choose a secular literary work for the eulogy, there are many beautiful selections available. The list below highlights several moving verses that are appropriate for a deceased loved one without including religious phrases.

3 Secular Readings for a Funeral Service

1. “Afterglow” by Helen Lowrie Marshall

American writer Helen Lowrie Marshall created this funeral poem to help mourners cope with the loss of a loved one. The short poem calls on mourners to cherish the happy memories of a deceased loved one instead of dwelling on their sorrow. It’s a meaningful choice for funeral services as it helps attendants remember the love and positivity that radiated from the deceased.  

2. Passage From “Julius Caesar” by William Shakespeare

Caesar’s response during a quiet argument with his wife in act II, scene 2 is comforting to those mourning a recent death. “The valiant never taste of death but once,” is a wonderful reminder their legacy will live on due to their heroic actions. It would be especially poignant during the memorial of funeral service of a fallen soldier, police officer, veteran, or anyone who has sacrificed their life during the call of duty.

3. “Epitaph for a Child” by Thomas Gray

The loss of a child is sorrowfully encapsulated in the words of Thomas Gray’s “Epitaph for a Child.” Grieving families will take comfort in the eloquent words of this poem and find strength during a time of great sorrow as it beautifully translates how lovely the child was and how they made an impact on others in their lifetime.

Any reading you choose will have significant meaning for everyone attending your loved one’s funeral service. Contact the kind team at Mihovk-Rosenacker Funeral Home in Cincinnati, OH, to assist with your funeral planning. Their professional staff will help you choose a casket or urn, flowers, and all of the details that go into preparing for a funeral service. To speak with a member of their dedicated staff, call (513) 385-0511, and visit the website to learn more about handling grief in difficult times.