Julia Wherrell Civil Celebrant

02/11/2024

It's All Souls' Day today (2nd November), a time, traditionally, to remember those who have died in faith.

We all feel grief and loss when a family member or friend dies and for centuries now, we have this dedicated day especially to remember them.

Whether you are one of the growing number of people who are non-religious or you find comfort in faith, here is a short poem by Ewan MacColl, taken from the lyrics of Joy of Living.

If you are thinking about someone special who has died, I hope these words will bring comfort and help mark and celebrate the life lived.

‘Poem’ by Ewan MacColl
Take me to some high place of heather, rock and ling
Scatter my dust and ashes, feed me to the wind
So that I may be part of all you see, the air you are breathing
I'll be part of the curlew's cry and the soaring hawk,
The blue milkwort and the sundew hung with diamonds
I'll be riding the gentle breeze as it blows through your hair
Reminding you how we shared in the joy of living

26/08/2024

David Bowie was ahead of his time when he said he would like his death to be as interesting as his life – now, a raft of funeral directors and undertakers are shifting the dial on what the end of life can look like.

Shift reflects change in how people are talking and thinking about death amid climate crisis and increasing secularism

26/08/2024

A new Crematorium in Plymouth offers coloured lights, comfy seating and even a café. Attitudes to funerals have changed and it’s starting to be reflected in the industry.


The crematorium, called The Park, in Plympton, opened earlier in August.