By The Tribute Plan Editorial Team · Reviewed June 2026
The recessional is the final piece of music, played as the family or casket exits and the service draws to a close. Because it's the last thing guests hear, families often choose something more hopeful or uplifting — a note of comfort or even celebration to carry everyone out. The selections below suit a recessional, from "Time to Say Goodbye" and "The Parting Glass" to "I'll Fly Away," "My Way," and "Ain't No Mountain High Enough."
A recessional can be solemn or joyful depending on the tone you want. Many families bookend the service with a quiet processional and a stronger, life-affirming recessional that reflects the person being honored.
Preview any song below and add your favorites to a complete order of service with our free Funeral Songs Picker. You can save it, share it with family, and print a run sheet for the officiant and musicians.
My Way — Frank Sinatra (1969) · 4:34 · Jazz, Nostalgic, 60s–70s. The signature “lived life on my own terms” anthem; a frequent send-off.
Time to Say Goodbye (Con te partirò) — Andrea Bocelli & Sarah Brightman (1996) · 4:05 · Classical, Sorrowful, 80s–90s. A sweeping operatic farewell; a powerful recessional.
I'll Fly Away — Albert E. Brumley (1929) · 2:45 · Gospel, Uplifting, Pre-1960s. A joyful, up-tempo send-off; popular at celebration-of-life recessionals.
The Parting Glass — Traditional Irish (1770) · 3:00 · Folk, Nostalgic, Pre-1960s. A traditional Irish farewell toast; a graceful way to close a service.
Ain't No Mountain High Enough — Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell (1967) · 2:30 · R&B / Soul, Uplifting, 60s–70s. A joyful up-tempo exit for a life worth celebrating.
When We All Get to Heaven — Traditional (1898) · 3:10 · Hymn, Uplifting, Pre-1960s. An upbeat reunion hymn that ends a service on a note of joy.
Nimrod (Enigma Variations) — Edward Elgar (1899) · 4:00 · Classical, Sorrowful, Pre-1960s. A dignified, swelling piece used at many formal memorial services.
Jupiter (I Vow to Thee, My Country) — Gustav Holst (1918) · 3:20 · Classical, Hopeful, Pre-1960s. Its hymn-like central theme is a stately, hopeful choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a funeral recessional song?
The recessional is the closing music, played as the family or casket exits. It is often more hopeful or uplifting than the processional — a final note of comfort or celebration.
What are good uplifting recessional songs?
"I’ll Fly Away," "Ain’t No Mountain High Enough," "My Way," and "The Parting Glass" are popular choices to carry guests out on a hopeful note.
Can the recessional be a celebratory song?
Yes. Many families choose a joyful, life-affirming recessional — especially at a celebration of life — to send everyone off remembering the person’s spirit.