The first thing I would like to do is to find out about you and the person who has died. This will be by phone or in person, COVID restrictions permitting. This will give me the opportunity to hear about the person who has died, what sort of person they were and what they loved to do. Music and readings can provide powerful memories and an opportunity for reflection.
I can discuss how the family want to be involved and the order of service leaflet that can be produced with the help of the Funeral Director.
The tribute is the most important part of the service. It is the opportunity for the family to tell the person’s story about who they were. This can be read by the member of the family or a friend or by myself as the celebrant.
I could include things like:
The story of their life
Significant dates and events in their life, family, education, work, places lived.
Interests- what they loved to do, their hobbies and what they were passionate about.
Their character
What they did to make you laugh or cry, their personality and character, all that made that person special to you. Personal stories are so important and the opportunity to tell some of those.
Music and readings
Did they have favourite music? Did they have a favourite reading or a poem?
These are a list of just a few things you may be able to start to think about in creating a truly unique and personal tribute.