Humanist funerals and memorials

Humanist funerals and memorials

Humanist funerals offer a personal and fitting way to say goodbye to those who have lived without religion. They honour the person who has died, focusing on the life they led, the relationships they forged, and the legacy they left.

A humanist non-religious funeral is led by a celebrant, rather than a religious official.

It is a testament to a unique life. Humanist funerals often include non-religious music and readings, as well as time for reflection. They can be as traditional – or not – as you wish.

Your story is our story

‘Whilst still sad, people thought it was a beautiful and uplifting funeral and many commented that it was the most personal funeral they’d ever been to.’

Your story is our story

Funeral stories

Read stories that capture the essence of heartfelt goodbyes, reflecting the depth of human connections and our shared values.

Funeral stories

Our Celebrant Network: Meet Blue Ryan – Funeral Celebrant

Blue Ryan is a documentary filmmaker and a humanist funeral celebrant based in London, who believes in the power of telling stories. She tells us about what her two roles…

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Trees in a forest clearing

A guide to eco-friendly funeral options

Humanists believe in caring for the natural world and share these values with many others. This approach can be a reason why people choose a humanist celebrant to lead a…

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White flowers in a garden

Planning a Celebration of Life: Ideas and advice for memorial ceremonies

A Celebration of Life, or memorial ceremony, can be held after or instead of a funeral. It can take place wherever feels right to you, rather than in a religious…

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