Elegy Poem Examples for an Ex-Partner
Poetic tributes to honour the shared past, complex love, and lasting memories of an ex-partner.
Through elegy poetry, we can express grief, honour cherished memories, and find comfort in difficult times.
On this page, you’ll find heartfelt elegy poem examples written for an ex-partner—each one acknowledging the nuanced connection, emotional history, and meaningful time once shared, even if life later took a different path.
Whether you’re seeking inspiration or simply wish to read meaningful poetry, we hope these examples offer both solace and clarity.
Elegy Poem Examples to Honour an Ex-Partner
“Not Forgotten”
Though life moved on and took its turns,
A part of me still softly yearns.
For what we had, for who you were,
A chapter closed, but never blurred.
Now that you’ve gone, the silence shows,
How deeply shared the heart still knows.
“A Goodbye Without Bitterness”
No anger now, just space and time,
To honour what was once so prime.
The years have dulled the sharper parts,
And left behind two kinder hearts.
Though you’re no longer here to see,
I send you off with dignity.
“We Grew Apart, But Still We Grew”
We loved, we laughed, we came undone,
Two lives once joined, then lost as one.
Yet even through the hurt and change,
Respect endured, though hearts re-range.
Now death has drawn the final line,
But part of you still lives in mine.
🕊️ A Heartfelt Elegy for Your Ex-Partner
A personalised poem can complement your wider tribute, read aloud by a loved one in their honour.
Shaped from your memories, it also becomes something lasting — to frame, share, and treasure.
“Once, You Were My Home”
You held my hand through many days,
In tangled love and shifting ways.
Though we let go, I still recall,
The way we stood through rise and fall.
Now as you leave this world behind,
I hold the past with softened mind.
“The One I Once Knew Best”
You knew my heart in younger years,
In foolish laughs and hidden fears.
Though we moved on and changed our course,
The bond we had still holds its force.
Now that you’ve gone, I stand and say,
You mattered more than words convey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an elegy poem?
An elegy is a reflective poem written to honour someone who has passed away. It expresses love, loss, and remembrance — capturing the spirit of the person and offering a quiet moment of reflection, even after time and distance.
How is an elegy poem different from a eulogy or funeral speech?
An elegy is a poem (often read or printed), while a eulogy or funeral speech is a spoken tribute. Many people choose both: a short poem for stillness, alongside a spoken piece that shares stories or gratitude for the life once shared. Asking a family member or friend to read the poem can make the service feel especially heartfelt. If you’d like help shaping a spoken tribute, we can create a tribute draft from your memories.
How long should an elegy poem be?
Most elegies are 8–20 lines (around 45–120 seconds when read aloud). Shorter poems work well during services, while longer ones can be framed or shared privately. If you’d like help creating one, our Elegy Poem Writing Service can craft a piece in the tone and style you prefer.
Can I use these elegy poem examples as they are?
Yes — you can use them directly or adapt them with your ex-partner’s name, qualities, or moments that reflect your shared history. A few small details can make the poem feel truly yours.
Where can an elegy poem for my ex-partner be used?
You can read it during a funeral, memorial, or celebration of life; include it in an order of service; share it online; frame it beside a photo and dates; or even feature it on a memorial plaque. If you’d like a bespoke keepsake version, we can create one for you — learn more.
Can you write a personalised elegy for my ex-partner?
Yes — we can shape a thoughtful elegy from your memories, written in the tone that feels right to you — whether gentle, grateful, reflective, or private. Each poem is written personally for you. Learn more through our Elegy Poem Writing Service.
Other Thoughtful Ways to Honour Your Ex-Partner
We’ve crafted a range of example tributes that may offer comfort, inspiration, or a different tone. If you’re looking to say more — or say it differently — we hope these samples help gently guide your way.
Click below to explore each type in more detail:
Eulogy Examples for an Ex-Partner | Condolence Message Examples for an Ex-Partner | Memorial Tribute Examples for an Ex-Partner | RIP Message Examples for an Ex-Partner
Visit our guide: The Healing Power of Elegy Poems in Grief and Loss — a thoughtful reflection on how poetry can offer comfort, help us process grief, and honour those we’ve lost.