Sarah Crabbe

“Sarah was so kind and helpful at a very difficult time. Only she could have described my husband so well.”

It is very important to me that the ceremonies I’m involved in capture the personality and ‘essence’ of the person who has died, and also reflect the wishes of their loved ones.  I also feel that a ceremony should be inclusive of all those present.  This will usually mean a short period of reflection (either in silence or accompanied by music) during which those who want to may say a silent prayer.

I would ideally want to meet or speak to those closely affected by the death as soon as possible in order to plan a suitable way to remember their loved one.  This meeting will usually last between 1 – 2 hours.  Some people will already have songs and readings they would like to have included, but if not, I am able to make suggestions.

Each ceremony is unique.  Friends or family may wish to participate with a reading, a poem, or to provide their own tribute.  Alternatively, I can deliver the whole ceremony.  I will be guided by you.

“Humanist funerals offer an appropriate and fitting way to honour a life with warmth, sensitivity and meaning.”

The typical structure of a ceremony will be as follows:

• Entrance music
• Words of welcome
• Thoughts on life and death
• The tribute – focusing on the life and personality of the person who has died
• Readings of poetry and/or prose
• Reflection – an opportunity for private thoughts about the person who has died.  A piece of music will often be played
• The Committal – when the curtains are closed or coffin lowered
• Closing words
• Music to leave

Following the ceremony, I will hand over a copy of the script for you to keep.

Click on the video below for an overview of humanist funeral ceremonies:

Fees

I charge £220 for the above service.  You can either contact me direct with an enquiry, or you may prefer to go through a Funeral Director who can contact me on your behalf.