What you would like to happen at your funeral

Things to consider when planning the kind of funeral service you would like.

Your funeral service

It is worth considering what kind of funeral service you would like, if you want one. Some things to consider include:

  • if you want a religious service - and which denomination if so
  • where you would like the service to be held - for example a crematorium, a church or meeting place
  • the name of any particular minister or officiant you want to conduct funeral 
  • if you would like a committal ceremony at the graveside or cemetery or crematorium chapel
  • whether you would like your service to be open to all friends and family or a private funeral with only your family attending
  • any specific people you would like to invite, or not be invited
  • what music you would like to be played - on entry, on exit and during the service
  • whether you would like an organist, other musicians or pre-recorded music
  • any poems or readings you would like

After the funeral service

You should consider whether you want to be cremated or buried. You can think about which cremetorium or cemetary you would prefer, and write down the name and address.

If you already have a grave space reserved, include the grave number and the Grant of ownership on your document. If you don't have one reserved, you can request a grave space at one of our cemeteries or natural burial ground.

After a cremation

If you choose to have a cremation, consider:

  • where you would like your cremated remains to be buried or strewn such as a family grave, crematorium, remembrance gardens, churchyard or at sea
  • if you would like your cremated remains to be buried or strewn in the same place as someone else, include details of who and where
  • if you would like a memorial service to be held before your remains are buried or strewn
  • if you would like a memorial provided in the crematorium - find out about memorial options at Woodvale Crematorium.

After a burial

If you choose to have a burial, consider:

  • if you would like a memorial on your grave
  • your choice of memorial mason - read a list of approved memorial masons
  • the wording you would like on your memorial