Funeral Celebrant in Buckinghamshire

My name is Joanne and I am a Funeral Celebrant in Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and South Oxfordshire.

I live near the beautiful riverside town of Marlow, in the Thames Valley, with my husband, two teenage children and two very energetic Labradors. I am very fortunate to be surrounded by beautiful woodland, rolling hills and riverside walks.

I gain a real sense of peace and serenity when walking in the countryside or hiking the stunning hills and mountains of the Lake District, Scotland and the French Alps.

As an avid reader I am never without a book. I particularly enjoy historical novels set in wartime. I have also read extensively about early Antarctic exploration. As a result, a trip to Antarctica is high up on my bucket list.

A love of travel began in my early twenties, when I went backpacking around the world for year. I loved meeting so many new people and experienced fascinating new cultures. Also on my wish list is to hike to Everest Base Camp and to climb Kilimanjaro.

Another passion of mine is singing. I am an active member of my local choir, both as a singer and as a committee member. We perform at various local events and concerts throughout the year. We have a wide musical repertoire that includes jazz, classical, pop and musical theatre. As part of my role as social media representative and concert promotor, I was delighted to talk about the choir and its upcoming concerts on our local radio station.
We are proud to have raised thousands of pounds over the years for local charities.

A keen runner, I have competed in various 10k races and a half marathon. I recently challenged myself to complete a triathlon.

I have volunteered with 'The Samaritans' and undertaken a short training course with ‘Child Bereavement UK’ . I have recently taken a course in 'Youth Mental Health First Aid'.

After three decades of working in Primary Education I felt ready for a career change. After attending a variety of beautiful and memorable celebrant-led funerals, I began to consider becoming a Funeral Celebrant myself.

After researching various courses and approaches, I am delighted that I chose to study with the UK Society of Celebrants.

As a former teacher, I bring with me various transferable skills such as writing, public speaking, attention to detail and communication. I always enjoy meeting new people . Being a naturally curious person, I love to ask questions about people's lives.

Due to various life experiences and personal bereavements, I have lots of empathy with people, particularly at difficult times of their lives.

At our initial meeting, I will try to put you at your ease, despite it being an incredibly difficult time. As we talk, I will be making notes as you help me gain a real sense of the life and personality of your loved one. You will be encouraged to share any anecdotes that you would like included in the ceremony. I will ask you about any pieces of music, readings, or prayers that you would like included.

I believe that a funeral should be an opportunity for reflection, and tears, but also for some moments of light relief through laughter.

I am happy to include spiritual content such as prayers and hymns, or to conduct a non-religious funeral, depending on your wishes. I welcome working with people of all faiths or none, and of all cultures and genders, in a setting of your choosing.

My aim is to work with you to create a truly personal ceremony that will give you, your family and friends an opportunity to unite and gain comfort from a memorable, final farewell to your loved one.

It will be my absolute honour and privilege to be your funeral celebrant and to work with you and your family.