Is there a place for humour in a funeral service?
It’s a resounding ‘yes’ from me.
Let me qualify that. Each service is as unique as the person to whom we’re saying goodbye. So, the inclusion of humour is really down to judgement. As a celebrant, I see it as my job to really get to know my families and their loved one, so that I can be sure of what’s right for them.
There are times when it’s just not the right thing. But in the majority of cases, even the most tragic, we can find lightness, joy, and yes, even humour, as we reflect on a life that has ended as we know it.
Sometimes I find that people dread meeting me. They dread the process of planning the service. In reality, that is such an important part of the grieving process; it usually makes people feel better to talk through their loved one’s story; taking them back before a time when they were ill or before the trauma of death, bringing to mind the sacred and precious memories that, with time, will help their adjustment and healing.
I must thank the lovely man who allowed me to use his words above. His Mum was a special lady, and he’s following in her footsteps. Thanks Dave.
*Absolutely no offence meant to Daniel O’ Donnell. The views expressed here are not those of Facebook or Jo Davey Professional Celebrant but are provided for entertainment only. Wink.
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