A service of choice, for your loved one and your family
Music, Readings & Poetry
This is an example of an order of service however the format is entirely of your choosing.
• Music on entry into the chapel.
• Minister’s introduction and welcome
• Poem or reading
• Eulogy
• A time for reflection
• Poem or reading
• Committal/Farewell
• Close of service
If the service is a cremation you can choose to either have the curtains closed or to leave them open.
The Service
Music is now a very personal part of any funeral service and again this is entirely of your choosing. Generally speaking families will often choose something that their loved one liked or something that means a great deal to them.
Most crematoriums have a modern music system and it is possible for them to download whatever you wish. Just ask your funeral director and they will request the music on your behalf. You can also provide a CD of your own music if you wish.
You can have as much music as you wish but generally there will be three pieces. One for entry into the chapel, one for a time for reflection in the middle of the service and one for the end of the service.
You may wish to choose one or two poems and you can see above where they occur within the service. The first sets the scene for the service and the second is more about the person.
Useful Links
The eulogy or story should recognise important dates and events within a person’s life and you may wish to relate some family memories and stories. It should also say something about their character and it is certainly acceptable to say whether or not they were a little grumpy or cantankerous, mischievous or lazy.
Remember, most of the people there will know the person and it’s important for them to accept and recognise the person you are talking about. It’s also very important to realise that you are allowed to laugh or smile if there is something to laugh or smile about. Obviously every story is different and there may well be elements of sadness, especially in relation to illness or the nature of someone’s passing.
Your Minister will help and advise you on how best to express these issues within your loved one’s story. Always remember this is a service of choice for your loved one and your family.
Your Loved Ones Story
"Hi Andrew, thank you for a wonderful service, everyone commented how good it was. Everything went so smoothly and dad got a good send off, even the weather was good."
Sue, Garry & Family
"Hi Andrew, I really didn’t get the chance to thank you for your contribution to Dad’s funeral service yesterday.
A number of people clearly recognised Dad’s life in the words that were spoken and commented on your delivery.
I personally thought that even with the little time we spent talking about Dad and his life it was clearly captured and presented in your delivery.
Obviously my day and continued remembrance of Dad did not stop when we left the crematorium as family members and myself gathered to continue our recollection of who, and what Dad was all about and how he will be remembered.
That said a big Thank You from not just myself, but form all the family for your contribution and personally for helping to make the day so much easier.
Thank you."
David
These are just a few of the comments made by families and the original copies may be viewed upon request however, client confidentiality demands that copies will never be made or left with a third party.
What the families say
"Just wanted to send thanks form all our family for helping us to give my Dad the send off he deserved. It was a true entertainers send off and we raised over £330 for the critical care unit.
Once again a big thank you making what was a sad occasion into something we can remember with a smile."
Babara, Julie, Paul & Family
"May we thank you SO much for the wonderful service yesterday. The small congregation all came back to our house afterwards and to a man/woman!!! They said how much they had loved the service.
It was a pleasure to meet you and thanks once again."
Hilary
"Hi Andrew, Just to say thank you once again for your help with Dad’s send off. Your reading of Mum’s poem and blessing were perfect.
Everyone said that it was the loveliest funeral they could ever remember, so I think we got it right.
Nice meeting you."
Brenda