Humanist funerals
If you're looking to arrange a humanist funeral for a loved one or would just like to learn more, our comprehensive 'humanist funerals' article below can help.
What is a humanist funeral?
A humanist funeral is a non-religious ceremony that focuses on the life the person led, rather than a particular faith they may have belonged to.
Instead of a religious leader, a humanist funeral is typically led by a humanist celebrant, family member or close friend.
It can include songs, words, music and other tributes that truly reflect the life of the person who has died but won’t include hymns or prayers.
'Humanism' is a philosophical belief that some people live by. However, the person who has died does not need to have been a ‘humanist’ to have a humanist funeral - in fact, most humanist funerals do not mention humanism.
If the person who has died did not have any strong religious beliefs, then a humanist funeral might be a good option.
The main difference between any other funeral and a humanist funeral is the content of the funeral service itself.
What happens at a humanist funeral service?
Every humanist funeral is unique and created to mark the life of the person who has died.
Although there is no set structure, most humanist funerals will follow a similar order of service to a traditional religious funeral, with non-religious readings and music instead of religious prayers and hymns.
Below we’ve outlined an example of how a humanist funeral service might be organised:
Entry music
Words of welcome from the celebrant or person leading the service. This may include thoughts on life and death from a non-religious perspective
A tribute to the deceased. Much like a eulogy, a tribute will be read by the celebrant, a family member or friend which outlines their personality and the life they led
Readings and poetry read by family or friends, or the leader of the service
A few moments for private thoughts, in silence or with music playing
The curtains around the coffin are closed or the coffin is lowered into the ground
Closing words by the celebrant, including a message of thank you from the deceased's family
Final music is played as mourners leave
If a funeral celebrant is leading the service, they will be able to guide you through the various options and together you can plan a service, fitting for your loved one.
Humanist funeral readings & songs
Humanist funeral readings and songs don’t have to be funeral themed, or even sad.
You could even choose your loved one’s favourite song, poem or a reading from their favourite book.
If you are looking for inspiration, some examples of readings often chosen for a humanist funeral include:
‘Funeral Blues’ by W.H. Auden
‘Wild Geese’ by Mary Oliver
‘When I am Dead, My Dearest’ by Christina Rossetti
‘Life Well Lived’ by Unknown Author
‘The Dash’ by Linda Ellis
For funeral songs, you could consider:
‘What a Wonderful World’ by Louis Armstrong
‘That’s Life’ by Frank Sinatra
'All You Need is Love’ by the Beatles
‘A Whiter Shade of Pale’ by Procol Harum
‘Walk On The Wild Side’ by Lou Reed
Where can you hold a humanist funeral?
As with a traditional funeral, there are options for both burial and cremation.
Instead of a burial at a church, a cemetery, woodland or natural burial site may be more appropriate for a humanist funeral.
If the body is to be cremated, then the service will typically take place at a crematorium.
How much does a humanist funeral cost?
The cost of a humanist funeral will vary depending on the provider you choose to arrange the service.
Funeral costs can differ widely, so it’s important to consider what is included and how the arrangements are managed when deciding which option is best.
A family-led funeral typically includes all of the essential elements needed for a respectful farewell:
- Necessary fees
- A simple coffin
- Care of the deceased
- Transportation in a specialist vehicle
- Use of a chapel for a service that is planned and led by the family
This approach allows you to create a humanist service that truly reflects your loved one’s life.
You have the freedom to shape the ceremony, choose music and visual tributes, and select a celebrant.
Rather than attending a funeral home in person, arrangements can often be made remotely with support from an experienced team available to guide you through the process.
The funeral itself will take place at a crematorium local to the place of rest, with on-the-day support to help ensure everything runs smoothly.
In addition to the funeral arrangements, the cost of a celebrant is a separate consideration.
How to find a humanist funeral celebrant
A funeral celebrant will be able to help you to plan the funeral service in honour of your loved one.
The easiest way to find a humanist celebrant is on the Humanists UK website.
Just enter your postcode and you will be provided with a list of UK accredited Humanist celebrants in your area.
You may want to contact a few celebrants, to enquire about their availability as well as cost.
The celebrant will meet with you before the funeral to find out more about the person who has died and plan the service accordingly.
You could alternatively plan and lead the service yourself.
Planning ahead for your own humanist funeral
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