WA Perth Bet Carey

Why I am an Independant Funeral Celebrant?

I decided to add Funeral Celebrancy to my portfolio, as I believe that I can bring to my families, compassion and understanding with what they are going through. I have experienced loss through a baby sister, Mother, Father, Step-father and now my husband. I understand the pain that grief brings and I can have the empathy that is required, whether it is a sudden death or a long drawn out illness.

I am also very aware of the time frame that is decided upon when a funeral is arranged, I have been to funerals where the celebrant/pastor has not given the family enough time, therefore I compose my ceremony within the time given, ie 1 hour, 2 hours.

I think it is advisable for families in certain circumstances to start planning for 'the day' prior to the funeral, especially if terminal illness is prevailing or for the elderly. This enables the gathering of information, photos, guests or even a celebration of the loved ones life before the passing.

What a lovely gift it is to the person who is passing to hear of their life's achievements and what different members of the family have cherished as special moments that are in their hearts.

I will visit the immediate family twice before the ceremony, first being too gather relevant information, secondly for the family to view the ceremony...I always want my families to know what I am going to say, I want them to be totally comfortable with the ceremony, I stay after the ceremony and mingle with the guests and I visit the family afterwards..usually once the Death Certificate has been received as I am also a JP so I certify several copies for their convenience. I also provide a bound copy of the ceremony for keepsake to all members concerned.

I get so much from doing all of this for my families, through my giving and understanding I am appreciated. I met one such lady only on Saturday for whom I conducted her Mother's cremation and she hugged me and kissed me on the cheek and told me that she was only thinking of what a lovely service I did for her Mum just the day before.

My heart just sang.

Emma (Bet) Carey

Civil Marriage, Family and Funeral Celebrant

Perth WA

More about Bet