Funeral Wishes

(Flowers by Jane Morrell)

When you work in an area it is always eye-opening to be on the other side of the equation. Over the last two years one of my brothers, Richard, and one of my brothers-in-law, John have died. Both died unexpectedly, Richard aged 69 and John aged 81.

John’s funeral was last week. As he was older and his health had not been good, he had left a number of requests for his funeral – a funeral in church, an oak coffin, burial in the churchyard near the grave of his mother, an opportunity for his family and friends to talk about him. There was at least this basic structure into which we as a family could add our own ideas and thoughts. People from different aspects of his lives spoke to take him from childhood, through his career, his adventures and escapades, his important role as the ‘head of the family’, a role in which he excelled with generosity and compassion. His love of Wales was reflected in the choice of hymn and poem.

Richard, being younger, had left no thoughts about his funeral, not even whether to be buried or cremated. With our experience Jane and I could help his wife to think things through, but it was much more difficult, always wondering if we were doing the right thing for him. He too was loved by family and friends, and we made for him a more modern funeral at the crematorium in Leicester, playing his favourite music by Abba and from ‘Cats’, with me giving the eulogy having talked to some of his friends and other family. We got there, but it was harder without any guidance.

Many people have used our book and ‘Funeral Farewell Wishes’ document, and a free meeting with us, to set out their wishes. You don’t have to pay for the funeral in advance (although you can), but you can keep the information in an accessible place and we then have it on our file to ensure your wishes are met. You can call to book an appointment: 01364 643522 or 01803 840779

Simon Smith, Heart and Soul Funerals