We do not believe there is such a thing as a “normal” funeral. Each funeral is unique to the family involved. It is for each family to pay their final respects and say farewell in the way that feels most fitting for them. The information below is here to help answer the questions most often asked about funerals and the services connected with them.
What are doctor's forms?
When a funeral is a cremation, a doctor must attend and certify the death. The doctor must be the person who attended the deceased during their final illness. This service involves a separate charge, which we usually pay on behalf of the family.
Can we visit the deceased and pay our last respects?
Yes. Our funeral home is available to you by appointment. If you wish to visit our private chapel, please phone us to arrange a time, and we will be pleased to have a member of staff meet you.
Can we have the deceased brought home?
Yes. We can bring the deceased home either on the evening before the service or the morning of the service.
How do we know what to do at the funeral?
On the day of the funeral, we are there to help and guide you, your family, and friends. If you are unsure about anything, please speak to the Funeral Director.
How many people can be seated in the limousine?
Each limousine has space for six people in the rear compartment and one in the front.
What can be included in the Order of Service?
Every funeral is unique and can be tailored to your wishes. You may choose to include readings, poems, or special music. We can help guide you through the options and planning so everything reflects the person you are remembering.
Can we choose what music is played at the crematorium?
Yes. If you have a special request, or would like a particular piece of music played as you enter or leave the crematorium chapel, please let the Funeral Director know.
Can the family carry the coffin?
Yes, although we ask that you contact us as soon as possible to ensure it is safe to do so.
Can we request donations to charity?
Yes. If donations to charity are requested in lieu of flowers, we will accept and record donations on your behalf, and forward them to the charity of your choice.
What happens to the flowers placed on the coffin?
The flowers will be collected by the Funeral Directors and taken to the wake or gathering. We encourage you to share them with family and friends during the gathering. You may also take them home if you wish. Any remaining flowers can be kept by close family.
Does the coffin move after the funeral service at the crematorium?
No. After the service has ended, the coffin remains in place until all relatives and friends have left the crematorium chapel. At some crematoria, curtains may be drawn at the head of the coffin, but this is only done at the request of the family.
Are the handles on the coffin removed before the cremation takes place?
No. There are strict laws regarding cremation. Nothing may be removed from the coffin before cremation without permission from the Home Office.
Is each cremation carried out individually?
Yes. The identity on the coffin name plate is checked by the crematorium attendant before it is placed in the cremation chamber. Only one coffin or casket is cremated at a time, and strict rules are followed throughout.
Will my loved one’s cremated remains be returned to me?
Yes. Once the cremation has taken place, the cremated remains are removed and left to cool before being placed in an urn. The urn is clearly identified with the name of the deceased. The Funeral Director can be instructed to collect the urn and return it to you.
What can I do with the cremated remains?
- You can place them in the Garden of Remembrance, but the exact location is not marked or recorded for individual identification, and headstones cannot be placed there.
- You may wish to purchase a grave just for the purpose of interring the cremated remains. This allows you to have a headstone and have other members of your family buried there in the future.
- You may keep them at home in a special urn or memorial.
- You may scatter them in a special place.
- The cremated remains may also be placed in an existing family grave.
- You may wish to keep some of the cremated remains to include in special memorial jewellery.