31 Goodbye Poems, Farewell Poems

Explore heartfelt verses that capture the essence of saying goodbye.

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By Catherine Pulsifer, Updated October 15, 2024


Goodbyes are not forever; they’re simply a pause until we meet again.

A collection of goodbye poems and farewell poems to give you words to help you say goodbye. And we say farewell on different occasions, a break-up, moving, death, retirement, and graduation, to name only a few. Here find verses and poetry that express sentiments for and from the person who is leaving. During our lifetime we will experience many goodbyes. May these short inspirational poems express thoughts of leaving, of see you around, of farewells that lead us to say goodbye.


Table of Contents for Goodbye Poems, Farewell Poems




    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.



  4. Regretfully I part from thee. Yours very sincerely.
    Goodbye Poems For A Friend


  5. 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."


  6. Related: Goodbye Poems For Lovers

    Back to Table of Contents


    Goodbye Reflection Poems

    Thoughtful verses reflecting on the significance of saying goodbye.


  7. 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.



  8. 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.



  9. 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.



  10. I'd rather say Hello than Goodbye any day!
    Saying Goodbye Poem



  11. 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?


  12. Related: Think Of Me Poem

    Back to Table of Contents


    Moving On Poems

    Inspirational pieces about embracing new beginnings after farewells.


  13. 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.



  14. The bonds we share will never break We will keep in touch, of that, there is no mistake.
    Forget Me Not Poem



  15. 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.



  16. A short goodbye poem written by a Teacher to her students as the school year ends.
  17. 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.



  18. 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!



  19. 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.


  20. Related: Goodbye Quotes

    Back to Table of Contents


    Hopeful Goodbye Poems

    Uplifting poems that convey hope and positivity in farewells.


  21. 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!



  22. Reader, Adieu! — I will not say farewell!
    Goodbye Poems For A Teacher



  23. 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



  24. 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!



  25. 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.


  26. Related: Letting Go Poem

    Back to Table of Contents


    Poignant Farewell Poems

    Touching verses that evoke deep emotions during farewells.


  27. 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!



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

  29. 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.



  30. 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



  31. sometimes good-bye is a second chance. ...missing someone makes you remember why you loved that person in the first place. Jamie McGuire
    Goodbye Love Poems



  32. 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.


  33. Related: Remember Our Love Poems

    Back to Table of Contents


    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.
  34. 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.



  35. ...for every goodbye, God also provides a hello.  Donna Gable Hatch
    Poems of Goodbye Death



  36. 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.


  37. Related: Poems About God's Blessings

    Back to Table of Contents



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.


More Inspirational Poems to Encourage & Motivate


Related:

I Miss You Poems
I Miss You Poems

Poems About Hope
Poems About Hope

Retirement Poems
Retirement Poems

Graduation Farewell Poems
Graduation Farewell Poems

 
New Year Poems
New Year Poems

Funeral Poems
Funeral Poems

Keep Your Head Up Quotes
Keep Your Head Up Quotes

Famous Poems
Famous Poems


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.



Many words express goodbye: farewell, cheerio, ta-ta, see you, so long, au revoir. Goodbyes are seen as a sad time, however, the memories that we have from time spent together will always be with us.

And at other times, goodbyes may not feel like it, but truly they are the best thing that could have happened to us. It allows us to move on, to find new relationships.

And technology today allows us to stay in touch so perhaps it is not a permanent goodbye, but a talk later, goodbye. Technology not only allows us to talk but also to see the person. So while you may say goodbye, you can always keep in touch.



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