[Verse 1]
Goodbye, Papa, you're leaving
You've stood in life's every test
Let me touch those dear old fingers
That have finally found their rest
And Papa, you look so good
In your blue denim shirt
That the Lord is bound to know you
And reward you for your worth

[Chorus]
Papa's hands are worn and old
Papa's hands, a story told
I've a good man and a true man
Who believe in nature's plans
He left little but a family
That drew strength from Papa's hands

[Verse 2]
Papa taught me, as a youngster
That hard work lends the soul
Why, his spirit must be whiter
Than a million cotton bowls
I won't cry because you're leaving
To join the angels' band
I'll just bid you a fond farewell
And I'll shake a good man's hand
[Chorus]
Papa's hands are worn and old
Papa's hands, a story told
I've a good man and a true man
Who believe in nature's plans
He left little but a family
That drew strength from Papa's hands