Jane Atwell | Funeral Celebrant

My name is Jane Atwell your funeral celebrant from Essex, living in Ilford and surrounded by family and friends. Since childhood, I’ve seen amazing changes in population, styles and beliefs. My family mix is one of faith, none or anywhere in between. This mix of people taught me the importance of listening and respect.

The pleasures of life that make me smile are sport, singing, dancing, wining/dining, gardening, travel, nature and more. Professionally, I have what some describe as a ‘portfolio career’. When you start out, no map shows how your career path will shape you. From the NHS/social work to flamboyant and vibrant Fleet Street. Then the serious nature of financial services until 2006 when, with a passion for nature, I became a garden designer - and now a celebrant.

Looking back, that portfolio career had a common denominator that is – people.
At 21 my inexperienced eyes saw those troubled by health or social issues. Then, a new job with inquisitive people, reporting on life from all angles with different intent, exposed me to a kaleidoscope of human behaviour and individuals. I learnt so much and had a ball. The analytical profession of a financial adviser was so different – by guiding and stabilising lives. But further promotion took me away from being hands-on with people, key components that made me tick. As a garden designer my clients and I worked hand-in-hand for the right result. Giving many people a better quality of life has been pure joy.

Attending more and more funerals, I realised I was drawn to the role of the celebrant as maturity sees life differently. Bereavement can be shocking and excruciating. Having had such wonderful support for my own parents’ funerals, I recognised the value of the celebrant’s role. I wanted to offer the same care and service to others at the most significant time of life. I see my final role as being the most important of them

Like many others, I have felt painful loss and grieved deeply. I had great fortune in being guided wonderfully for my parents’ funerals, which made terrible times cherished memories. Using these experiences, I examined what qualities and support the celebrant had that could influence the celebrant I wanted to be.

When a loved one dies, planning a funeral is an early step in coming to terms with loss. Understanding what’s possible to create the very best goodbye, with head and heart all over the place, can be overwhelming. It’s my role to guide you through all possibilities and metaphorically hold your hand.

The following are just some of the queries regularly asked:

• Should we have hymns?
• What music can we have?
• I don’t know any readings/poems – what shall I do?
• Can we include family favourites?
• I’ve never written a tribute/eulogy – where do I start?
• Do I write it or can the celebrant?
• Do I have to speak or can someone else if it’s too much?
• Several friends/family members want to speak?
• How will this work?
• Nobody wants to be part of the ceremony – is that OK?
• We aren’t religious and don’t want any religious content.
• We would like to have some religious content but not much.
• Can you advise?
• There’s so much we want to say, how can we include it all?

Getting together is the first step down the daunting road, whether I come to your home or a mutually convenient place. We will work out the answers and gather those precious anecdotes/stories that reflect the life and personality of your loved one. On the day itself, I will lead the ceremony as we have agreed and, together, we make this difficult time as special as it can be.

My main areas are east-north London and Essex though not exclusively. Please do drop me a line or give me a call to see how we can work together. Thank you.