Poems in memory of Mom are heartfelt tributes created when a beloved mother has died. These memorial poems for mom can be read or written at anytime to bring comfort. Whether you're turning to famous poetry, reading original poems for the loss of a mother, or finding inspiration for your own verses to honor her, these poems will help you keep her memory alive.
Famous Poems About Mothers
Robert Louis Stevenson, Edgar Allan Poe, Rudyard Kipling, and other famous authors penned poems about their mothers. The power of these writers' words speak eloquently and are expressions of their thoughts toward their mothers. These famous poems about mothers can be used as they are or help inspire you to write your own tributes or memories through verse.
Sonnet to My Mother
Sonnet to My Mother by George Barker is the type of poem that rolls off the tongue, making it a good choice for a reading at a funeral or memorial service. The poem paints the picture of the mother as a resilient, powerful force that is unmovable. The poem was written as a remembrance for Barker's deceased mother and focuses on the things he knew he would miss about her. It's a touching poem on a mother's death that resonates with many people when they think of their own relationship with their mother.
Mother 'o Mine
Mother 'o Mine by Rudyard Kipling was supposedly written as an apology to his mother for the sad ending to one of his books - she wanted a happy ending, so to ease her displeasure he composed the poem as a tribute to her. The poem tells the story of a mother who loves her child no matter what. The poet paints the picture of a mother's love making a broken person whole once more.
To My Mother
To My Mother by Edgar Allan Poe speaks toward the important role mothers play in their children's lives and the world at large. Poe's mother died when he was very young, so he understood the importance of women who assume the mother role, even if they aren't actually mothers. Recognizing the powerful role that moms play in children's lives can be a special way to pay tribute to any mother.
Childhood
Childhood by Rainer Maria Rilke talks about childhood memories that have slipped from the mind, only to be recalled when something unexpectedly trips the memory. It's largely a poem about how fragile childhood can be, yet alludes to how those childhood memories are important. It's a suitable poem to reflect on the passage of time. Since poems for a deceased mother often focus on the past, this can be a unique way to remember a special woman.
To My Mother
To My Mother by Christina Rossetti is quite a short poem, suitable for someone who doesn't want to say many words. The poet wrote this poem to celebrate her mother's birthday. The mention of giving flowers to the mother in the poem might make this a good poem to recite when surrounded by funeral flowers. It's a good option for thise looking for simple in memory of mom poems.
Sonnets are Full of Love
Sonnets are Full of Love by Christina Rossetti is a sonnet written to celebrate the poet's "first love" - her mother. The poem speaks of the special love between a mother and her daughter and how that love is reciprocal.
My Mother Would Be a Falconress
My Mother Would Be a Falconress by Robert Duncan is a fairly long poem, but quite beautiful. The mother in the poem is painted as authoritarian, yet willing to teach her child. As the poem goes on, the poet relies less on his mother and more on the skills he acquired from her. It's about a mother letting go of a child she prepared for independence.
Original Poems on a Mother's Death
Special verses can serve as a tribute poem to a wonderful mother, be used to reflect on shared times and memories, or even be used in sympathy messages after the loss. Each mother-child relationship is unique. These original poems can be a starting point to frame anyone's sense of grief and unique memories around the loss of a mother.
My Brilliant Mother
by Casey Gamble
When my mother passed away,
Her absence left its mark.
I'll use her light to guide me
When this journey of grief feels dark.
The greatest gifts she gave me
Are courage, strength and resilience.
I wouldn't be able to handle this pain
If it wasn't for her brilliance.
Each time I laughed, she'd laugh along.
And when I cried, she'd wipe my tears.
Each time I fell, she'd help me up.
For my wins, she was there to cheer.
She prepared me for the future,
Taught me how to face my fears.
Now the future is here but she is gone,
And everything seems unclear.
She'd been with me from the start
With constant, unwavering love.
Though she's moved on from this world,
I know she's watching from above.
She would tell me to be strong, now.
And continue on without her.
So I'll be sure to lead a worthwhile life
In honor of my brilliant mother.
You Made the World Brighter
by Casey Gamble
Mother, your laugh was a song
Making us smile.
The sound of joy,
Music to our ears.
Your eyes were a painting
Lighting up rooms,
Captivating attention,
Encouraging conversation.
Your life was a movie
With love, emotion, excitement,
With ups and downs,
With you, our hero.
Though we'll forever miss your laugh,
Your eyes and your life,
We're grateful for your legacy
Of making the world brighter.
A Beautiful Mother
by Amy Finley
Your love, your sacrifice, your smile
You left a legacy in even the smallest things
You gave so much of yourself
Loving others unselfishly and unconditionally.
You were a light, a beacon, a fire
Burning bright through the years
You put your burdens on the shelf
Giving your heart so freely and beautifully.
You brought laughter, learning, and joy
Into moments large and small
Your heart was your true wealth
A beautiful mother inside and out.
Here in Our Hearts
by Amy Finley
Our hearts grieve
Our tears fall
Our arms are empty
Without you here.
The thoughts swirl
Our souls ache
The world seems so lonely
With the loss so near.
The memories whisper
in the sorrow
Comforting our hearts
Reminding us of your love, so clear.
You were a mother who gave
Who always stood strong
Meant the world to so many
Was so incredibly dear.
All our minds cherish you
we honor your memory
Our love will always remain
and in our hearts, you're still here.
Value of Poetry in Times of Loss
Poetry is a source of comfort and healing for the bereaved. Poems that deal with loss are often read when a eulogy is given at a funeral. They provide some solace for both the reader and those present at the service. The poetry evokes emotions and perhaps, even tears. These emotions can be therapeutic for the griever.
Reading in Memory of Mom Poems
When a poem is read to an audience, follow these suggestions:
- Take your time
- Speak clearly
- Project your voice so that all can hear
- Practice aloud beforehand
- Go over difficult or unfamiliar words
Characteristics of Remembering Mom Poems
Poetry about mothers who were loved and are no longer with us are strong and loving pieces. Even if you do not find a particular selection meaningful, know that the person who wrote it was inspired and most likely received much peace from composing the piece. Likewise, if you choose to write a poem about your mother, be assured that it will be most significant to you. However, others may be encouraged to hear it read in honor of your mother. Don't be afraid to share your work. Others need to know the ways in which you adored your mother and how much she meant to you. Poems about mothers hold the following qualities:
- Simple
- Loving
- Share an aspect of appreciation for Mother
- Speak of yearning to see Mother again
- Tell of a mother's love and wisdom bestowed upon the family
- Emphasize a mother's sacrifice for her children
- Explain her nurturing ways
- Recall a lesson learned at a mother's side
When you set out to write your own poem, jot down some cherished qualities about your mother. From these, chose one or two, and from there, construct a few lines. Use words that are dynamic and vivid. Find verbs and nouns that convey what you want to say. Consult a thesaurus or dictionary to help you as you create.
Poetry for a Mother's Death
When you are at a loss for words when the time comes to honor your mother's life at the time of her passing, take solace in the fact that poets from years ago have already put the words together for you. Use one of these options as sympathy poems for the loss of mother, to find comfort, or honor her memory. Find the poem that most speaks to your heart and use it as a fitting tribute.
