We will talk you through what you would like to have at the service. Both C. Waterhouse & Sons and Heathfield Funeral Service can discuss with you whether you would like a religious or non-religious service. Recommendations for celebrants who we have successfully worked with for many years can also be given.
We will chat through all options with you; any readings, the eulogy, songs as well as hymns. Then once you have given us your thoughts, we will arrange the music so you don’t need to worry about that at all. We will also put you in touch with your chosen Minister or celebrant so you can get to know them a little before the service, if you don’t already know them. You will then be able to discuss between you, all the options that you would like for the service.
On the day itself, if you choose a service in the crematorium chapel, it is usual for the coffin to be transferred from the hearse to the catafalque. This is where it will rest in view of the mourners throughout the service. They can either follow the coffin into the chapel or take their seats beforehand, ready for the service to begin. Many families decide they would like to choose their own pall bearers; family members or friends to carry their loved one into the chapel and we are quite happy to do this as we know it means such a lot and is an honour for them to bring them in themselves.
At the point of committal in the service, the family can choose for curtains to close around the coffin. Or it can remain in situ until all mourners have said their farewells and left the chapel. You can let us know what you would like to do for this point in the service.