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Arranging a Funeral:
Step 1-8 - 
Initial Decisions and Service Planning

Create a farewell that truly honours your loved one, with guidance every step of the way.

No obligation. Calm, compassionate support when you need it.

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Step 1: Who Will Arrange the Funeral?

The person arranging the funeral will make key decisions and be responsible for payment.

  • Only one individual can provide instructions to us, but we can keep other family members informed via email.

  • See Who Can Arrange a Funeral? for guidance on legal responsibilities.

Step 2: Choosing Burial or Cremation

This is a personal choice influenced by beliefs, wishes, and family tradition.

  • Follow any wishes left in a Will or funeral plan where possible.

  • If no instructions exist, the next of kin usually decide.

 

Learn more about our simple, affordable Direct Cremation options.

 

Find out about our burial services, including Durrington Cemetery burials.

Options:

  • Burial: Traditional resting place; memorial space for visiting.

  • Cremation: Flexible; ashes can be kept, scattered, or interred.

  • Consider cost, environmental factors, and family preferences.

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Step 3: Selecting a Location for the Ceremony

The right location creates a meaningful farewell.

 

Traditional venues:

  • Places of worship

  • Crematorium or cemetery chapels

 

Explore local crematoria and choose the setting that feels right.

 

Alternative venues:

 

Practical considerations: accessibility, seating, music/readings, rituals.

Step 4: Choosing a Funeral Celebrant

The celebrant sets the tone for the service.

 

Options:

  • Religious officiant: Minister, priest, faith leader

  • Humanist celebrant: Non-religious service

  • Civil celebrant: Semi-religious, cultural traditions

  • Family member/friend: Personal touch

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Step 5: Selecting a Coffin or Casket

Your choice honours your loved one and reflects personal values.

  • Traditional wooden coffins – classic and dignified

  • Eco-friendly options – wicker, bamboo, cardboard

  • Bespoke designs – engraved, themed finishes

See the coffin and casket options we can help you choose.

Step 6: Eulogies and Readings

Words help celebrate a life, values, and legacy.

  • Choose family, friends, or a celebrant to deliver tributes.

  • Options: formal eulogy, favourite poems, religious readings, or book excerpts.

  • Our team provides guidance on structure and delivery if needed.

Read our guide on how to write a meaningful eulogy.

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Step 7: Music – A Personal Tribute

Music evokes memories and sets the tone for reflection.

  • Traditional hymns, classical, or modern songs

  • Played during assembly, entrance, reflection, or committal

  • Options: live musicians, recorded tracks, or choir

  • Suggestions available if you need inspiration

Step 8: Visual Tributes

Visuals provide a lasting, personal reflection.

  • Photos, slideshows, videos, or music compilations

  • Displayed on chapel screens, DVD copies available

  • Our team supports compiling, editing, and selecting content

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We Are Here to Help

 

Planning a funeral can feel overwhelming. At Rounce Funeral Services, we provide guidance, support, and reassurance every step of the way.

Learn more about our compassionate attended services.

No obligation. Just calm, supportive advice when you need it.

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© Copyright 2004-2026 Rounce Funeral Services Limited.
3 Half Moon Parade, Half Moon Lane, Worthing, West Sussex BN13 2EL


Rounce Funeral Services Limited is a company registered in England (company no. 09484367).
Registered address: 3 Half Moon Parade, Half Moon Lane, Worthing, West Sussex, England, BN13 2EL.
Rounce Funeral Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under firm reference no. 815392.
Rounce Funeral Services Limited is regulated by the Society of Allied & Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF) (membership no. 2002).

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