31 Goodbye Poems, Farewell Poems

Table of Contents for Goodbye Poems, Farewell Poems

• Friendship Farewell Poems
• Goodbye Reflection Poems
• Moving On Poems
• Hopeful Goodbye Poems
• Poignant Farewell Poems
• Inspirational Blessing Poems
• Frequently Asked Questions

Friendship Farewell Poems

Poems that celebrate the bonds of friendship while bidding farewell.



1. Dear Friend
   Poet: Grinnell Willis
   
   Dear friend, 'tis hard to say farewell,
   And harder yet it is to tell,
   In parting words, how strong the tie
   We sever now in this good-bye.
   
   We all shall miss thy gentle grace.
   Thy willing hand and cheerful face;
   No other friend thy place can fill.
   Though absent we shall claim thee still;
   
   God bless the work thou hast begun,
   And guard thee in the years to come.
   And when thy heart is weary, or alone.
   Come back and rest in this thy home.




2. Sometimes Think Of Me
   Poet: Lillian E. Curtis
   
   The pleasant hours have past,
   And I must now return;
   Tis hard to say good-bye,
   But the lesson we must learn. . . .
   Read the entire poem, Sometimes Think Of Me




3. Happy Be
   Poet: Eloise A. Skimings
   
   Ever mayst thou happy be,
   Life holds precious gifts for thee;
   E'en if now a shadow lay
   Around thy heart - 'twould pass away.
   Ne'er forget the friend you leave
   On Huron's shore, and believe
   Regretfully I part from thee.
   Yours very sincerely.




Goodbye Poems For A Friend



4. Parting Words
   Poet: Melissa E. Banta
   
   When lovers part at eventide
   To meet again tomorrow,
   With laughing lips and backward glance,
   Undimmed by thought of sorrow,
   Ah, then, as glows the sickle moon,
   And soft distils the dew,
   What other word so fitting sweet
   As, "Love, adieu, adieu"?
   
   When true friends part whose lives in one,
   Like rippling streamlets blended,
   As clinging hands and tearful eyes
   Bespeak that all is ended,
   Ah, then beneath life's summer noon,
   Or autumn's stormier sky,
   What word so fond on friendship's lips
   As, "Friend, good-by, good-by"?
   
   When o'er some life knit to our own
   Death's darkness settles stilly,
   As fades the love-light from the eyes,
   And falls the clasped hand chilly;
   With raining tears and aching loss
   That tears may not dispel,
   The tortured heart throbs to the lips,
   "Farewell, beloved farewell."


Related: Goodbye Poems For Lovers




Goodbye Reflection Poems

Thoughtful verses reflecting on the significance of saying goodbye.



5. Goodbye Forever
   Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
   
   Goodbye are the words we often say
   When people leave for work for a day
   But when we say goodbye forever
   We realize we are no longer together.
   
   Goodbyes can be so hard
   Sometimes leaving us scarred
   But time has a way of healing things
   Life has more hello's to bring.
   
   So while you may feel sad today
   Keep moving forward it will be okay
   Express your feelings and even cry
   You will feel better as time goes by.




6. Hello, Goodbye
   Poet: Catherine Pulsifer, ©2021
   
   Hello and goodbye are two words we use a lot
   One is welcome and the other when we part
   The best is always the hello's
   Some say it quiet, others often bellow.
   
   But goodbyes are no fun
   Especially with a special one.
   Why is the word "good" include in a bye
   I often wonder about this with a sigh.
   
   They say there is good in everything
   But oftentimes goodbye sadness brings.
   May life bring hellos a lot more
   And let the goodbyes go without keeping score.




7. To-morrow I'm Away
   Poet: Max Ehrmann
   
   Come here and take my hand
   And press my lips,
   Just for today —
   To-morrow I'm away;
   With pulsing heart
   And quickened feet
   I'll tread another street;
   And in the toils
   Of duty's net
   I may sometimes forget
   You for awhile,
   And this sweet day
   In life's all stormy way;
   And oft I'll know
   The want of heart
   Again life's work to start,
   So press my lips
   Just for today —
   To-morrow I'm away.




Saying Goodbye Poem



8. Goodbye
   Poet: William Freeland
   
   Why should I say goodbye, my dear?
   Why should I say goodbye?
   I am only going a little way
   Over the hills, and only a day,
   Only a sleep, with a dream, and then,
   When morn breaks rosily up the glen,
   With blackbird, and throstle, and lark,
   I'll come again,
   And wait till the bird of the dark
   Outwarbleth the song of the lark.
   And wooeth the moon from the dark,
   And lifteth our souls on high, my dear:
   So, why should I say goodbye, my dear?
   Why should I say goodbye?
   
   Why should I say goodbye, my dear?
   Why should I say goodbye?
   I go, yet still I'll be with thee,
   And staying here, thou shalt be with me!
   Ah! nought can part us : and when the night
   Flies from the dreaming rose, and the light
   Hath kindled in flashes of song,
   Love in his might
   Shall fold us from terror and wrong
   In the murmuring garden of song;
   For song hath no kindred with wrong,
   But only with love that is high, my dear:
   So why should I say goodbye, my dear?
   Why should I say goodbye?


Related: Think Of Me Poem




Moving On Poems

Inspirational pieces about embracing new beginnings after farewells.



9. Moving Day
   Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
   
   Today I come to say goodbye
   I will miss you, I can't deny
   But as I move to another town
   Leaving you makes me frown.
   
   I will stay in touch, I promise that
   I will call you often and we will chat.
   It won't be the same I know
   But we can call and say hello.
   
   So I won't say goodbye, I'll say so long
   You're a friend indeed, one who is lifelong
   The bonds we share will never break
   We will keep in touch, of that, there is no mistake.




Forget Me Not Poem



10. Leaving Is Sad
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
    
    What we had was something unique
    Similar to a special antique.
    I wish I didn't have to leave
    Life without you is hard to conceive.
    
    Life without you won't be the same
    But I do hereby proclaim
    I wish you luck and much happiness
    But leaving is sad, regardless.



A short goodbye poem written by a Teacher to her students as the school year ends.

11. Farewell
    Poet: Unknown
    
    Now, little children, you and I
    Have walked beneath the autumn sky;
    With old Jack Frost in wintry land
    We've gone together hand in hand.
    In spring we've plucked the daffodil
    And buttercup on every hill;
    And now in summer you and I
    Must close the book and say goodbye.




12. A Little Work
    by George Du Maurier
    
    A little work, a little play
    To keeps us going - and so, good-day!
    A little warmth, a little light
    Of love's bestowing - and so, good-night!
    A little fun, to match the sorrow
    Of each day's growing - and so, good-morrow!
    A little trust that when we die
    We reap our sowing! And so - good-bye!




13. Happy Trails
    by Dale Evans
    
    Happy trails to you, until we meet again
    Some trails are happy ones
    Others are blue
    It's the way you ride the trail that counts
    Here's a happy one for you.
    


Related: Good-bye Old Year Poem




Hopeful Goodbye Poems

Uplifting poems that convey hope and positivity in farewells.



14. Adieu!
    Poet: John Imrie
    
    Reader, "Adieu!" — I will not say "farewell!"
    That word, full-fraught with sorrow as a knell,
    Breathes forth a strain of sadness to mine ear,
    And is too often mother to a tear!
    
    "Adieu!" speaks hopeful that we yet may meet
    And with each other hold communion sweet.
    If aught that I have said doth give thee cheer
    I've made a friend of thee — and friends are dear!
    In this stern world of ours each friend we gain
    Makes life more sweet, and helps to soothe life's pain!
    
    Remember, then, dear friend, before we part,
    These simple strains are from a glowing heart
    That seeks to find an echo to its voice
    In heart of thine — and, finding that, rejoice!




Goodbye Poems For A Teacher



15. Good-bye Means Not Farewell
    Poet: John Imrie
    
    "Good-bye! good-bye!" what kindly words,
    As they fall on the parting ear,
    Like the singing of summer birds,
    With their wonderful power to cheer;
    Their meaning true —
    "God-be-with-you!"
    With kiss and sigh —
    "Good-bye! good-bye!" . . . .
    Read the entire poem, Good-bye Means Not Farewell




16. Saying Goodbye
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
    
    Saying goodbye is never easy
    Actually, it makes me queasy
    So let's just say see ya later
    Keep in touch by email or notepaper.
    
    Goodbyes seem like the end
    But we will always be friends
    We may be separated by miles
    Just say keep in touch and smile!




17. Why Does Good
    Poet: Kate Summers
    
    Why does good appear
    When goodbye means I disappear
    What's the good in not seeing you
    It just means that I will be blue.
    
    I think goodbye should drop the good
    Just "bye" would be better understood
    So from now on the good is gone
    And only "bye" will be my song.


Related: Letting Go Poem




Poignant Farewell Poems

Touching verses that evoke deep emotions during farewells.



18. Farewell
    Poet: Sam Fickinsen
    
    Farewell, so long
    Means I am gone
    Today, tomorrow
    Leaving brings sorrow.
    
    See ya around
    The words they sound
    Like goodbye
    I say with a sigh!



This goodbye poem is written to a daughter by her father,
short but full of wisdom!

19. A Farewell
    by Charles Kingsley
    
    My fairest child, I have no song to give you;
    No lark could pipe to skies so dull and gray;
    Yet, ere we part, one lesson I can leave you
    For every day.
    
    Be good, sweet maid, and let who will be clever;
    Do noble things, not dream them, all day long:
    And so make life, death, and that vast forever
    One grand, sweet song.




20. Farewell! But When Roses
    Poet: Mary C. Ryan
    
    Farewell! but when roses shed their perfume o'er thee,
    At twilight's sweet hour, sacred to love.
    Search thy memory's dark vaults, for remembrance of me,
    And find the charms, which thy bright eyes wove;
    And then if thou canst, oh, dispel that strange power
    Which has doomed me their captive to be!
    For afar from those orbs, a faithful sunflower,
    My poor heart will be turning to thee. . . .
    Read the entire poem, Farewell! But When Roses




Goodbye Love Poems



21. Fare Thee Well
    Poet: M. E. B.
    
    Fare thee well, my heart is weary
    The sunshine fades, the clouds remain
    And all around seems dark and dreary.
    Until I see thee once again.
    
    Yet I would never mar thy gladness,
    A fond farewell, and happy be;
    Forgive thy little friend her sadness,
    As all the world is fair to thee.


Related: Remember Our Love Poems




Inspirational Blessing Poems

Poems that offer blessings and encouragement during transitions.


A blessing from the bible that is a good one to use when someone is leaving.
22. A Blessing
    Numbers 6:24-26 (NLT)
    
    May the Lord bless you
    and protect you.
    May the Lord smile on you
    and be gracious to you.
    May the Lord show you his favor
    and give you his peace.
    




Poems of Goodbye Death



23. A Blessing in Goodbye
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
    
    May God's peace surround your way,
    As you step into a brand-new day.
    Though parting brings a hint of pain,
    In Christ, we’ll surely meet again.
    
    May His hand guide your every stride,
    With angels walking by your side.
    In moments when the road seems long,
    His strength will keep your spirit strong.
    
    His blessings fall like gentle rain,
    To wash away your fear and strain.
    He holds your future in His care,
    So trust His love is always there.
    
    Though now we say goodbye, my friend,
    In faith, we know it's not the end.
    For where you go, His grace will be,
    And in His love, we'll always see.


Related: Poems About God's Blessings

Key Reflections in these poems:

• Goodbyes are bittersweet but often temporary – Many poems emphasize that while farewells may bring sadness or pain, they also hold the promise of future reunions or continued connection, either through memories or spiritual ties.



• Friendship and love transcend distance – The poems frequently express that true friendships and relationships can endure beyond separation, with the hope that bonds remain strong despite physical distance or time apart.



• Faith offers comfort during transitions – Several poems highlight how trusting in God's guidance and care can bring peace during goodbyes, reinforcing the belief that goodbyes are not the end, but a new chapter under God’s watchful care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common queries about farewell and goodbye poems answered.

• Can I use a goodbye poem for a farewell speech?
  Yes, goodbye poems can be a wonderful addition to a farewell speech. They add emotional depth and can help express feelings that may be difficult to put into words. Poems like "Goodbye Forever" by Catherine Pulsifer or "Farewell" by Sam Fickinsen can complement your speech beautifully.



• What are some farewell poems for retirement?
  Retirement is a significant life transition, and farewell poems for this occasion often express gratitude, reflection, and well-wishes. A good poem for retirement is "Moving Day" by Catherine Pulsifer, which talks about leaving but staying connected. Another is "A Little Work" by George Du Maurier, which touches on the balance between work and rest in life.



• Are there short goodbye poems for leaving a job?
  Yes, there are many short goodbye poems that work well for saying farewell to coworkers or a job. "Saying Goodbye" by Catherine Pulsifer is a light and simple poem that can express your appreciation without being too formal. "Goodbye Forever" is another short poem perfect for a professional setting.



• What is a good poem for saying goodbye to a loved one who has passed away?
  Poems that help express the grief and love for someone who has passed away are deeply moving. "Parting Words" by Melissa E. Banta is a touching poem that reflects on parting due to death, expressing the emotional weight of such goodbyes. Another is "Farewell! But When Roses" by Mary C. Ryan, which beautifully captures the lingering feelings of love and loss.



• Can I personalize a goodbye poem for a specific occasion?
  Absolutely! Many people personalize goodbye poems to fit their specific situation, whether it’s a graduation, a breakup, or moving to a new city. You can modify poems by adding names, specific memories, or inside jokes. A flexible poem like "Moving Day" or "Fare Thee Well" can easily be adapted for various farewells.



• What are some uplifting goodbye poems that offer hope for the future?
  Goodbye poems don't have to be sad; many can be uplifting and hopeful. "A Blessing in Goodbye" by Catherine Pulsifer is a Christian poem that offers encouragement and peace, reminding us that parting is not the end. Another uplifting choice is "Happy Be" by Eloise A. Skimings, which encourages happiness and positive thoughts for the future.



• Are there funny or lighthearted goodbye poems?
  Yes, not all goodbyes need to be serious or somber. Lighthearted poems can bring a smile during parting moments. Poems like "Hello, Goodbye" by Catherine Pulsifer and "Why Does Good" by Kate Summers add humor to the goodbye process, making the farewell less heavy and more cheerful.



• Where can I find goodbye poems for specific occasions, like graduations or moving?
  There are many specific goodbye poems for life events such as graduations, moving, or retirement. For example, "Moving Day" is ideal for someone moving away, while "Farewell" by an unknown poet is perfect for end-of-year goodbyes from teachers to students. 
  
  
• How can I use a goodbye poem in a card or letter?
  Goodbye poems are great for cards or letters because they concisely capture feelings. You can write a few lines of the poem that resonate with you and follow it with a personal note, making the message both poetic and heartfelt.



• Are there any copyright restrictions on these poems?
  Yes, all of our poems are copyrighted. However, if you wish to use one of our poems for personal use you have our permission and they are free to use. However, if the poems are for commercial use please contact us for guidelines and permission.




• Can I submit a nature poem to be published:
  Yes, see our submission guidelines, how to submit, and the review process on our submit a poem page.