A funeral that reflects service, sacrifice and identity
For many families, military service is an important part of who their loved one was — and it can feel right that this is acknowledged in their funeral, in a way that is dignified, respectful and personal.
At Rounce Funeral Services, we have long experience in arranging funerals for veterans of the Armed Forces, Merchant Navy, National Service and Reservists. We work sensitively with families to honour service where it feels appropriate, while always respecting personal wishes and individual beliefs.
There is no “set” veterans’ funeral. Some families choose a formal ceremonial farewell; others prefer a quieter tribute. We will guide you gently through the options and help you decide what feels right.
Who veterans’ funerals are for
We can support funerals for those who have served in:
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The British Army
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The Royal Navy
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The Royal Marines
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The Royal Air Force
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The Merchant Navy
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National Service
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Reserve Forces
Whether service was recent or many years ago, it can still be acknowledged with care and respect.
Ceremonial elements — only if you wish
Where requested, we can help arrange ceremonial elements that may include:
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Standard bearers
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A bugler for the Act of Remembrance (subject to availability)
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Military or regimental coffin drapes
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Guard of Honour
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Medals displayed on a ceremonial cushion
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Cap or beret placed on the coffin
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Motorcycle outriders
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Military pallbearers
All arrangements are entirely optional and guided by availability, location and the family’s wishes. We will always explain what is possible, what may involve third parties, and what can realistically be arranged within your timeframe.
Working with trusted service organisations
Over the years, we have worked with a wide range of:
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Regimental and service associations
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Standard bearer groups
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Veterans’ organisations
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Motorcycle escort groups
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Experienced celebrants and ministers familiar with service funerals
We can make enquiries, coordinate attendance and handle communication on your behalf, helping to reduce stress at an already difficult time.
To assist us, it can be helpful (where known) to share:
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Regiment or service branch
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Dates of service
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Service number (if available)
If you don’t have all of this information, that’s very common — we’ll help you work with what you have.
Financial support and guidance
Some families worry about the cost of a funeral, particularly where a loved one served but left limited provision.
While we cannot guarantee external funding, we can:
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Explain what financial help may be available
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Signpost relevant support routes
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Help you understand what is realistic within your budget
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Ensure dignity and respect are never compromised
Our role is to guide — not to pressure or upsell.
A service that reflects the person, not just the uniform
Veterans’ funerals can be:
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Religious or non-religious
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Formal or informal
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Large or private
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Ceremonial or quietly symbolic
We work with celebrants and ministers who understand how to incorporate service history thoughtfully — without overwhelming the personal story of the person being remembered.
Order of service booklets, music choices and readings can all be tailored to reflect both service and family life, if you wish.
Here to guide you, at your pace
Arranging a funeral for a veteran can raise questions — about protocol, entitlement, ceremony, or simply “what’s appropriate”.
You don’t need to have the answers.
At Rounce Funeral Services, we are here to:
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Listen first
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Explain options clearly
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Handle arrangements respectfully
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Support you without pressure
If you’d like to talk things through, ask a question, or explore what might be possible, we’re always happy to help.