I’ve been conducting funerals for more than three years and, although it sounds odd to many people, I get great satisfaction from telling a person’s life story, bringing it to life for relatives and friends who are almost certainly grieving. I believe it helps them to remember the person who was alive, rather than thinking about the person who is no longer there. As Humanists, of course, we do not believe in an after-life, so the focus of the ceremony is very much the individual and the life they led. Judging from the feedback I’ve received, I am able to do this pretty well.

At this difficult time, I can help you with every aspect of the Funeral. Let me talk about the process that we go through. Usual first contact with me is through the Funeral Director, but you can also call me directly and tell the Funeral Director that you want me to take the service. The date and location of the service will be decided between yourself and the Funeral Director. I will call you to confirm a few details, including confirmation that you’re looking for a non-religious ceremony. I will arrange to come and see you, and any other members of the family that you think appropriate. At this meeting we’ll mainly focus on the deceased’s life. I will take lots of notes, so that I can write a suitable tribute. We also talk about the ceremony itself, so nothing will come as a surprise on the day. We’ll talk about music choices, and I can pass these on to the Funeral Director for you. The centre of my approach will be you, and your family, and what you want. If any family members or friends wish to speak or do a reading, this can be accommodated of course, subject to time slots at the location. I will ask that any contributors send me their words in advance, partly for timing, but also if emotions take over and I need to stand-in. I can advise, from my knowledge and experience, on music, on readings, but at the end of the day I want you to be happy that we’ve done the best we can for your loved one. Within a few days I will send you a draft copy of the script. Any changes or corrections can be made at this stage.

On the day of the funeral, I will arrive in plenty of time to check the music and confirm any other arrangements with the Crematorium or Cemetery staff. I will meet you at the front of the Chapel before the service, just to assure you that everything is as it should be.

As a general rule Humanist Funerals follow a pattern:

Words of Welcome

Words of Comfort

Tribute

Period of Reflection (a quiet few minutes where people can sit and think, or say their own prayers, if they want to)

Committal

Closing words

This is not cast in stone, so if there is anything you’d like to include, then we can discuss and work out the best solution together.

I think you will find me personable, sympathetic, and a good listener. I will write a tribute that accurately and respectfully conveys the life that has been led, that will evoke memories for those people present. I have a strong, clear voice, and a ‘presence’ and ‘gravitas’ which will give reassurance to you and your family that everything is under control.