SAYING FAREWELL
Funerals and Memorials are important occasions that with the kind support of close family and friends, help us find a way to stand on the unfamiliar ground that is exposed when someone we love dies. We are suddenly arrested and forced to examine the fragility and mysteriousness of life and it is wise to give this interruption some breathing space.
A funeral is often where we learn to take our first steps on this hard emotional and unfamiliar ground, especially when we turn to leave the gathering. The things we do and the respect and honour shown during a service paves the way.
If you are facing this challenge or even if you want to prepare for its eventuality, you can call me to talk about what is possible in arranging a funeral or memorial. Together we can create a moment in time that brings together the things you want and need to remember. All relationships have their own special reason and memories, so talking to other people connected to your loved one's life will enrich the process. Eulogies, tributes, readings, music, photos, artefacts and rituals all bear witness to the life to be honoured.
As you journey through the days ahead may what you choose to do, honour life and be a point of reference for you. A marker that allows you to find your bearings and carry on. I bring a calm, understanding presence and work to make this occasion one where you feel everything has been done than can be done.
You might find the suggestions in my tab called "Down The Track" something you'd like to do later on.
Testimonials
"It was an absolute pleasure having you as the Celebrant at my Dad's funeral. Everyone commented on how caring and lovely you were, you did such a great job in the short about of time you had." Mandy (Aug 2022)
"It was bliss to have you. The minute you commenced the service I felt relaxed and in very capable hands. You involved yourself with our family, listened carefully to what we had to say and then presented a lovely personal service." .........." Judy was able to clearly project her understanding of mum throughout the service and unobtrusively immersed herself into our family, which later, following the service, prompted some of the attendees at the funeral to ask if Judy belonged to the family. I believe this is a wonderful honour for Judy in her profession as a celebrant." Merelynne (July 2022)
"I just wanted to thank you for a beautiful touching send off; your words and guidance were very lovely. From the bottom of my heart thank you - you are very good at your job and much appreciated." Esther (Feb 2020)
"Thank you for today, you have a special gift to spend so little time with our full on family, and get it so right. Thank you SO much." Gaynor (Sept 2019)
"Thank you so much for your warm and professional approach to this and making it a personal journey for us. I know it's your job but you have really gone beyond all expectations." Annette (June 2019)
"I felt the day was dignified and graceful. Thank you for your part in that." Deirdre (August 2018)
"Thank you so much for mum's service on Thursday . For us it was just what we thought mum would want, I thought it was quite lovely ( and I've never said that about a funeral!!) . You did such a great job!!" Kathy (August 2018)
"It’s been hard but we’ve been comforted by each other’s company and flooded mails and tributes from my dad’s colleagues and friends in China. We couldn’t wish a better person than you sharing last moments of my dad’s worldly existence. And the handouts you made was absolutely beautiful. We will keep that forever. Thank you once more. What a wonderful world!" Jean (July 2018)
"Just wanted to say thank you so much for my Nan's service last week. The timeframe was more than ambitious and we appreciate how quickly you put together such a lovely service. In fact, my husband commented on how much he preferred your delivery of the eulogy as it can be quite difficult to watch family members break down while speaking. And thank you for your wonderful calming energy." Jade (June 2018)
A funeral is often where we learn to take our first steps on this hard emotional and unfamiliar ground, especially when we turn to leave the gathering. The things we do and the respect and honour shown during a service paves the way.
If you are facing this challenge or even if you want to prepare for its eventuality, you can call me to talk about what is possible in arranging a funeral or memorial. Together we can create a moment in time that brings together the things you want and need to remember. All relationships have their own special reason and memories, so talking to other people connected to your loved one's life will enrich the process. Eulogies, tributes, readings, music, photos, artefacts and rituals all bear witness to the life to be honoured.
As you journey through the days ahead may what you choose to do, honour life and be a point of reference for you. A marker that allows you to find your bearings and carry on. I bring a calm, understanding presence and work to make this occasion one where you feel everything has been done than can be done.
You might find the suggestions in my tab called "Down The Track" something you'd like to do later on.
Testimonials
"It was an absolute pleasure having you as the Celebrant at my Dad's funeral. Everyone commented on how caring and lovely you were, you did such a great job in the short about of time you had." Mandy (Aug 2022)
"It was bliss to have you. The minute you commenced the service I felt relaxed and in very capable hands. You involved yourself with our family, listened carefully to what we had to say and then presented a lovely personal service." .........." Judy was able to clearly project her understanding of mum throughout the service and unobtrusively immersed herself into our family, which later, following the service, prompted some of the attendees at the funeral to ask if Judy belonged to the family. I believe this is a wonderful honour for Judy in her profession as a celebrant." Merelynne (July 2022)
"I just wanted to thank you for a beautiful touching send off; your words and guidance were very lovely. From the bottom of my heart thank you - you are very good at your job and much appreciated." Esther (Feb 2020)
"Thank you for today, you have a special gift to spend so little time with our full on family, and get it so right. Thank you SO much." Gaynor (Sept 2019)
"Thank you so much for your warm and professional approach to this and making it a personal journey for us. I know it's your job but you have really gone beyond all expectations." Annette (June 2019)
"I felt the day was dignified and graceful. Thank you for your part in that." Deirdre (August 2018)
"Thank you so much for mum's service on Thursday . For us it was just what we thought mum would want, I thought it was quite lovely ( and I've never said that about a funeral!!) . You did such a great job!!" Kathy (August 2018)
"It’s been hard but we’ve been comforted by each other’s company and flooded mails and tributes from my dad’s colleagues and friends in China. We couldn’t wish a better person than you sharing last moments of my dad’s worldly existence. And the handouts you made was absolutely beautiful. We will keep that forever. Thank you once more. What a wonderful world!" Jean (July 2018)
"Just wanted to say thank you so much for my Nan's service last week. The timeframe was more than ambitious and we appreciate how quickly you put together such a lovely service. In fact, my husband commented on how much he preferred your delivery of the eulogy as it can be quite difficult to watch family members break down while speaking. And thank you for your wonderful calming energy." Jade (June 2018)
Terminology: It can be confusing to know whether to call a service a Funeral or a Memorial because both honour and remember the deceased. It helps to remember that a funeral is a service where the body of the deceased person is present. A memorial service is one where the deceased person’s body is not present. And if a person has been cremated and a service is held where their cremated human remains are present, it is considered a Memorial service.