Hello and thanks for looking.
I am based in Horsham, West Sussex, but am happy to travel about an hour or so away.
I am a very experienced Funeral Celebrant, trained and accredited by Humanists UK. I read Philosophy as part of my first degree. Perhaps I did not know the label that I was then, and am now, a humanist. In this way, I can use my views on life, in a practical way to help families in a time of need, with a meaningful, comforting, supportive celebration of a loved one’s life.
My way of working is to listen to the family during a home visit or by zoom, and carry out their wishes; be it a formal somber ceremony to a colourful celebration of life. I take cremations, burials, green burials, memorials or celebrations of life.
Dealing with the loss of a loved one can be incredibly difficult. Many people feel sad, perhaps overwhelmed, confused and even angry.
It is an honour to be invited into a family’s home at such a difficult and stressful time. I will listen to your ideas and requests and then write a tailor-made ceremony for you. It will meet your needs to honour, respect and celebrate the unique life of your loved one, in a dignified manner, without reference to God or religion.
It is important to acknowledge the role that they played in the lives of their family and friends and wider society. Accordingly, the ceremony will aim to celebrate your loved one’s life and legacy, achievements and successes. It is an important rite of passage and it fulfils our human need to say goodbye.
If I am asked to be your Celebrant, I will meet with you and if you like, with other family members or friends. I would really like to hear their life story through you and your memories and stories. What were their achievements, high points, successes, perhaps tell me a funny story? What kind of person were they? What made them unique and special? Think about choosing their favourite music to be played at the celebration.
You may wish to invite a family member or good friend to speak at the ceremony. They could read their own words in a family tribute, a poem or piece of prose. Some families ask for live music, with or without singers. I am of course very happy to offer plenty of ideas for poems, music or prose.
Please feel to call me and have a chat if you think I can help you.
