Arranging a Funeral

Guidance with compassion - one step at a time

Arranging a funeral can feel overwhelming, especially at an emotional time.

At Thompson Brothers & Sons, Craig and Simon are here to guide you with clarity, compassion and reassurance - helping you make decisions at a pace that feels right for you and your family.

Whether you are planning ahead or arranging a funeral following a recent loss, our role is to support you and help create a meaningful farewell that reflects your loved one’s life, wishes and personality.

Step 1 - choosing the type of funeral

The first decision is how you would like to say goodbye. We offer a range of options, including:

  • traditional funeral services

  • cremation services

  • direct cremation

  • burial services

  • natural and environmentally conscious funerals

  • religious or non-religious services

  • more personalised celebrations of life

Craig and Simon will take the time to explain each option clearly, listen carefully to your wishes, and help you choose what feels right.

For more information on simpler options, you can also view our direct cremation page.

Step 2 - planning the service

Once the type of funeral has been chosen, we will help shape the day with care and attention to detail.

We can support you with:

  • choosing music, hymns and readings

  • selecting a celebrant, minister or officiant

  • including personal tributes, photographs or displays

  • choosing a location such as a church, crematorium or graveside

  • arranging floral tributes and printed materials

  • visiting your loved one in our chapel of rest

We also take care of all practical arrangements, including:

  • funeral transport using our Jaguar hearse and limousines

  • coffin and casket choices

  • arranging the date and time

  • liaising with crematoria or burial authorities

  • completing all necessary paperwork

You will never be rushed. We are here to guide and reassure you throughout.

Step 3 - informing family and friends

We can help you share the details of the funeral in a clear and respectful way. This may include:

  • funeral notices

  • orders of service

  • obituary notices

  • online tribute or condolence pages

These allow family and friends to come together, share memories and offer support.

unde (2)

Step 4 - looking after yourself

Grief affects everyone differently, and it is important to take things at your own pace. You may find comfort in:

  • talking with family and friends

  • sharing decisions rather than carrying them alone

  • seeking support from bereavement services

  • reading our guidance pages for reassurance

Our care does not end on the day of the funeral — we remain here whenever you need us.

Clear guidance on costs

We believe every family should feel informed and comfortable when making decisions.

Craig and Simon will explain all costs clearly, including:

  • crematorium or cemetery fees

  • celebrant or officiant costs

  • floral tributes

  • funeral transport

  • any additional personal elements

We offer a range of options to suit different wishes and budgets, including simpler services and direct cremation, and we can also advise on available financial support if required.

You are never alone

During times of loss, many decisions may need to be made — but you do not have to make them alone. At Thompson Brothers & Sons:

A plan allows you to:

  • if you are ready to talk, we will listen

  • if you are unsure, we will guide you

  • if you need support, we will take care

We are here to support you - one step at a time.