When someone dies, families are often asked to make decisions about a viewing, a funeral and a wake within a matter of days, frequently without ever having been told what each one actually involves. This guide explains what happens at each, how they differ, and how to decide which of them are right for your family.
The difference between a funeral and a memorial service is simpler than it sounds: at a funeral the coffin is present, and at a memorial service it is not. Everything else, the timing, the venue, the tone and who leads it, follows from that one practical fact. Neither is more respectful than the other, and a growing number of families in the UK now choose to hold both.
When someone dies, the grief arrives first and the bills arrive shortly afterwards. Government help exists, but it rarely covers everything: among families who receive a Funeral Expenses Payment, it meets roughly 48% of the total cost on average. The funds below exist to close that gap, and many of them are barely known outside the trades and communities they serve.
Things to keep in mind when writing a eulogy
Writing a eulogy for a loved one is a deeply personal journey. It is a final gift – a chance to honour your grandmother’s unique life and the lasting legacy she leaves behind. At Hillier Funeral Service, we understand that finding the right words can feel overwhelming during such an emotional time. Continue reading
When we lose someone we love, the funeral service is an important moment to say goodbye. However, many families in Swindon and the surrounding areas find that the wake is where the most healing happens. Continue reading
Selecting funeral flowers is one of the most meaningful ways to express sympathy, honour a loved one, and provide comfort during a difficult time. Continue reading
At Hillier Funeral Service, we believe that every life is unique, and the funeral service should be a true reflection of that individuality. Choosing the right music for a funeral service is a deeply personal decision that helps celebrate a life and provides comfort during difficult times. Continue reading
Choosing a funeral director is one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make following the death of a loved one. At Hillier Funeral Service, we understand that families deserve clarity, compassion, and confidence when arranging a funeral. We’ve written this guide to help you know exactly what to ask when choosing a funeral director.
At Hillier Funeral Service, we understand that when someone you love passes away, finding the right words to honour their memory can feel overwhelming. If you have been asked to deliver a eulogy, or are considering speaking at a funeral service, you may be wondering where to begin.
When a loved one has been cremated, one of the most common and deeply personal questions families ask is: “Who can collect the ashes from the funeral director?” This is an emotional moment, and we want to ensure the process of taking your loved one home is handled with the utmost sensitivity and care. Understanding the rules and procedures around collecting cremated remains is important during an already difficult time.
