Grief and world events can easily lead to a long and drawn out depression. When this occurs, we have to be kind to ourselves and rest, connect with other people and the world of nature.

The Dash by Linda Ellis

There are many poems to celebrate a life well lived. This poem, The Dash by Linda Ellis, is a favourite.

funeral poemDavid WillisNovember 16, 2021funeral celebrant, funeral service, funeral poem, funeral, funeral directors, civil celebrant, celebrant, sheffield, sheffield funeral flowers, sheffield funeral, sheffield funeral celebrant, sheffield funeral director, celebrant training, funeral celebrant training

A Funeral Service for someone under 40

I have recently had a number of funeral services to write & deliver for people who have died under the age of 40. This is very unusual. The tone & content of the funeral service is often, although not always, different from a service for someone who has died after a long life in their 70s, 80s or 90s.

Bereavement, funeral, Funeral ServiceDavid WillisOctober 6, 2021funeral celebrant, funeral service, funeral directors, funeral florist, funeral flowers, funeral, civil celebrant, celebrant, sheffield funeral flowers, sheffield, sheffield funeral, sheffield funeral celebrant, sheffield funeral director, celebrant training, funeral celebrant training

How planning a Funeral Service can help with grief

The planning of a funeral service for a loved one is a helpful activity when struggling with grief. The focus & need to get the job done can bring a timely reason to leave “what if...” thoughts to one side which can be emotionally draining. Working with a celebrant on planning the actual funeral service can also bring some comfort.

Let Me Go by Christina Rosetti

Christina Rossetti is one of the most popular poets to have her poems read at funerals.

Christina was a Victorian English poet & wrote the funeral poems “Remember” and “Let Me Go”. She is also famous for writing the words to the Christmas Carol, “In the Bleak Midwinter “.

Why White Lilies at a Funeral?

White lilies are probably the most associated flower with funerals. Ever wondered why?

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What's the difference between coffin bearers and pall bearers?

When arranging a funeral, a family is often asked if they want coffin bearers or pall bearers? What are they? Do you need them? Hopefully this information may help.

Leisure by William Henry Davies

“What is Life if, full of care…” is the famous start to a poem that many people will have heard, but few can remember its name. It is a beautiful and popular choice in a funeral service.

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Why White Flowers at a Funeral?

Ever wondered why white flowers are such a popular, traditional and classic choice at a funeral?

There are four good reasons why.

funeral flowersDavid WillisMay 9, 2021celebrant, civil celebrant, sheffield funeral celebrant, funeral celebrant, funeral flowers, funeral, funeral chapel, funeral directors, funeral service, sheffield funeral flowers, sheffield, sheffield funeral, sheffield funeral director, celebrant training, funeral celebrant training

The Wonderful Willow or Wicker Casket

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Sunflowers of Joy - A Tribute for a Life Well Lived

Sunflowers are symbolic of pure joy. So what better way to pay tribute to someone who was joyous in life with a sunflower wreath.

Short Poem for a Dog Lover

There are many wonderful poems to honour the love of a person who has died & their beloved dog. This is just a short one.

Floral Funeral Tributes

The inventiveness & talent of Sheffield’s florists never fails to amaze me.

A Thing Of Beauty by John Keats

Online Testimonials From Families I have Helped

It is an honour to support and help families in the way that I do. I am truly humbled but also proud of the testimonials many of my families feel they want to share with others online either on Google or on The Celebrant Directory.

What Happens at the Committal in a Cremation Service?

In a cremation funeral service, the point of the committal is a time when the family have a choice of either keeping the curtains open or closed. It is purely personal preference. But how do you decide?

Making a Personal Tribute

It is wonderful when a member of the family or friend feels able to speak at a funeral. It is not easy however, even for a seasoned public speaker. As your funeral celebrant, I am always there to help.

David Willis, Celebrant - Acorn 2 Oak Ceremonies