Charles Oliver

CharleyHumanist, non-religious Funerals in Northampton

This site will provide  answers to the questions you may have about non-religious, or Humanist funerals for which I am trained and accredited by Humanists UK.

I am based in Northampton and am willing to travel to neighbouring counties.

 

 

To find out about a Humanist funeral – click here.

 

Ring me for a chat, with no commitment in any way:

0788 1978 683.

CORONAVIRUS – TEMPORARY NOTICE

I regret that I am advised not to conduct cremation ceremonies for the foreseeable future. For graveside ceremonies and green burials, I shall conduct “family visits” (to prepare for these) by telephone or Skype. If in doubt or to ask a question, just ring me.

Memorial ceremonies –  a celebration of life

In the present circumstances, many families are choosing to have a “direct cremation” (discuss with your funeral director) and are planning a full ceremony later, in a home, a marquee, a community centre or a pub function room. I will be happy to prepare and lead such an event. As ever, ring me for a no-obligation chat.

 

About me

After being a teacher for more than 30 years, I trained as a celebrant in 2008 because I wanted to use my experience in a new field. I taught English and English Literature, and at the end of my career, as a head teacher, I gave many assemblies and saw many individuals – children, their families, as well as colleagues – through difficult, as well as joyous, times.

Each ceremony is a one-off. I aim to get to know your family, to tell your story, and then to find the right poems, readings and pieces of music which will speak to the human spirit which is present in all of us.

I’m a family man: my wife is a clinical psychologist, my two children have grown up, and I now have the delight of being a grandfather. Families have said to me that they liked to have someone to take their ceremony who is not a priest, but an ordinary man who has experienced life with all its joys and heartbreaks, and whose values are based on common humanity.

For more details about funeral ceremonies – click here.