What to expect on the day of the funeral
Your funeral director will guide you through the day, from the arrival of the hearse to the end of the funeral.
You do not have to remember any of it.
Your funeral director will remain your main point of contact throughout the day, explaining what happens next and helping everything run as smoothly as possible.
Where the funeral procession begins
The funeral procession can begin at your home, one of our branches, a place of worship or the crematorium. We will discuss the options with you and arrange the departure point that best reflects your wishes.
You can request a particular route, including passing a meaningful place or taking a journey along the coast. Let us know when arranging the funeral so we can discuss what is possible.
Who does what
Your funeral director will coordinate the arrangements on the day and guide you through each stage, providing continuity from the arrangement meeting to the funeral itself.
The coffin bearers carry the coffin during the funeral and help ensure it is handled with dignity and care.
A minister, faith leader or celebrant conducts the service according to your wishes. A celebrant can lead a non-religious or personalised ceremony.
How long the service lasts
Crematorium services take place within allocated time slots, which vary by venue. We will explain the available options when discussing the arrangements. Service lengths and booking slots differ between crematoria. Please check the current arrangements with your chosen venue before finalising readings, music and tributes.
Church services and graveside ceremonies can usually be arranged more flexibly, depending on the venue and the officiant.
Sunderland Crematorium information and South Shields Crematorium information.
People who cannot be there can often watch
Some crematoria and venues offer live streaming or a recording of the service for people who cannot attend in person. We can check the options available at your chosen venue.
What happens afterwards
After the service, flowers may be left at the crematorium, placed on the grave or taken to another location, subject to the venue’s arrangements. We will discuss your wishes with you.
If the funeral is a cremation, we will explain when the ashes are likely to be available and the options for collecting or receiving them. You can take time to decide what you would like to do with them.
If you are planning to continue to a reception or another gathering after the funeral, let us know so we can coordinate the transport arrangements.
You may also find our guide to what to wear and what to expect as a mourner helpful to share with family and friends.
Contact us with any questions about the day
If you are unsure about any part of the funeral, please ask us. We will explain what to expect and help you feel as prepared as possible.
