Planning a funeral can be a stressful time, both for the individual who is preparing for their final journey and the loved ones who have to finalise it when their family member or friend has passed away.
John Delanoy and Julie Stout from Delanoy Funeral Services talk to East Durham Business magazine about some of the things to consider when planning a funeral and why having a caring and local hand to hold can be priceless in your hour of need….
EDB. Planning a funeral is something we all have to prepare for. What advice would you give to anyone who is in that situation?
- It’s a deeply emotional time, and having local support from a funeral director is important. Personal guidance and support with face-to-face meetings to guide you in your time of need is essential in our opinion.
EDB. We’re hearing a lot about direct cremations in the media. Can you explain what they are?
- Direct cremations are performed without a service, allowing families to honour their loved ones in their own way at a later date.
EDB: Why do you think people choose them rather than a traditional church service and burial or cremation?
- Direct cremation is often seen as a straightforward, stress-free option, frequently highlighted in media ads. While many local funeral homes and online companies offer this service, it’s essential to consider whether it provides the closure your family may need.
We’ve encountered families who initially chose plans with out-of-area companies online, only to end up paying more. When the moment arrived, they realised the importance of keeping their loved ones close, allowing for meaningful gestures like placing memorabilia in the coffin or saying final goodbyes and they couldn’t go through with what was originally planned.
Whether you choose an attended direct cremation with no service or a small, intimate gathering for immediate family, there are ways to ensure peace of mind.
Remember, it’s about creating a moment that honours your loved one and supports your healing process.
At Delanoy Funeral Services, we understand that preferences can change over time. We’re here to guide you through your options with care and compassion, each step of the way.
EDB. Why should people choose you for a Direct Cremation?
JS and JD:
Local Care – Your loved one remains in the community, ensuring familiarity and trust.
Personal Support – Experience compassionate, face-to-face support throughout the process.
Chapel Visit – We offer the option for one visit to our chapel, providing a moment of peace and reflection.
Comprehensive Care – We provide the same level of care and preparation as a traditional funeral.
Personal Touches – We offer a range of options to make the cremation uniquely personal
EDB. Why do you think traditional funerals remain the most popular option?
- Traditional funerals offer a personal touch and closure. After losing my dad, both myself and my mother found comfort in giving him a fitting send-off that was very personal to him. Funerals help families and friends say goodbye, providing a sense of peace and closure.
