Types of Funeral
Every life is different, and every family has its own traditions, wishes, and circumstances. We help families arrange funerals that feel appropriate, respectful, and personal.
Some families choose a traditional funeral with reposing, a funeral Mass or service, and burial. Others prefer a private funeral, a direct cremation, or a more personal celebration of life.
There is no single right way to say goodbye. Our role is to guide you through the options and help you make arrangements that feel right for your family.
Traditional Funeral
A traditional funeral usually includes time for family and friends to pay their respects, followed by a funeral Mass or service, and burial or cremation afterwards.
Private Funeral
A private funeral is a smaller arrangement, usually attended by close family and invited guests only. This can be helpful when families want a quiet, personal farewell.
Direct Cremation
Direct cremation is a simple option where cremation takes place without a public funeral service beforehand. Families may choose to hold a memorial or celebration of life at another time.
Celebration of Life
A celebration of life is a more personal service focused on the person’s story, character, memories, music, readings, and the people who loved them. It may be religious, non-religious, or led by a celebrant.
Burial or Cremation
Some families already know whether burial or cremation is preferred. Others are unsure. We can talk through both options, including practical, family, religious, and personal considerations.
Are you available at all times?
Yes. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If someone has died, or if you need urgent guidance, you can call us at any time.
What should I do first when someone dies?
The first steps depend on where the death has occurred — at home, in hospital, in a nursing home, or suddenly. In most cases, a doctor must confirm the death before funeral arrangements can begin. Once this has happened, you can contact us and we will explain what needs to happen next.
Can you help with all arrangements?
Yes. We can help with the funeral arrangements, removal, notices, church or ceremony arrangements, burial or cremation, flowers, music, transport, and practical guidance for the family.
Do we need to know exactly what we want before calling?
No. Many families contact us before they know what kind of funeral they would like. We can talk through the options clearly and help you make decisions at your own pace.
Can the funeral be religious or non-religious?
Yes. We can help arrange traditional religious funerals, non-religious ceremonies, humanist services, civil celebrant-led services, private funerals, direct cremations, and more personalised celebrations of life.
Can you help if family members are abroad?
Yes. We regularly help families where relatives are living away from West Cork or abroad. We can keep family members informed, help with notices and arrangements, and support the process when a loved one needs to be transported to or from another country.
Can we view coffins or urns?
Yes. We can guide you through the available options and provide a catalogue if you would like to review them privately with your family.
How much does a funeral cost?
The cost depends on the type of funeral, the services chosen, and any third-party costs such as cemetery, crematorium, church, celebrant, flowers, notices, or transport. We will explain costs clearly and provide guidance before decisions are made.
Can we plan ahead?
Yes. Planning ahead can give peace of mind and make things easier for loved ones in the future. We can arrange a private conversation to discuss wishes, options, and practical considerations.