Debbie Donnelly
Funeral and Memorial Celebrant
Dorset and Hampshire
Celebrant working with families and individuals to create and lead personal, bespoke and respectful funeral, memorial and celebration of life ceremonies
I am also available to organise and lead alternative, different or less conventional ceremonies.
debdon38@aol.com Tel: 07799 178384
I aim to create meaningful end of life ceremonies that celebrate the lives of those you hold dear, guiding families through one of life’s most challenging times. My work is a constant reminder of the beauty and fragility of life.
​
I believe every life is unique and deserves to be remembered in a way that reflects the individual’s personality, values, and journey. Whether it’s a traditional funeral service, a celebration of life, a memorial, or something entirely personal, I will work closely with you to craft ceremonies that honour your loved ones in a way that feels true and heartfelt.
​My approach is to ensure that every detail of the service is tailored to your wishes and the legacy of your loved one.
​
When I’m not supporting families, you’ll often find me walking our dog, enjoying travels in our camper van or spending time with friends. I will always have a book to read and a new craft to try.
​
I am here to support you as you navigate this difficult time. Together, we can create a ceremony that brings comfort, honours cherished memories, and celebrates a life well-lived.
​
Please feel free to reach out to me to discuss how I can help.
Testimonials
Many thanks for the full script and conducting a wonderful service for Bryan. It all went according to plan seamlessly. You successfully conveyed the essence of Bryan, thank you so much. March 2023
​
I just wanted to say a huge thank you for yesterday March 2023
​
Thank you so much for reading at the service. You did it so well. Everyone has commented on how beautiful the service was.
April 2023
​
It was a lovely service and a great location. The funeral was just perfect. Thank you for helping us celebrate our Mom.
July 2023
Thank you so much for yesterday, it was just lovely and absolutely perfect. We will cherish the presentation script forever.
August 2023
​
It was lovely to have you present Jane’s life, it was amazing how it all came across and the comments that came back were so appreciative, thank you so much for making the day.
Oct 2o23
​
​
​
​
The role of a celebrant
I trained with the Institute of Civil Funerals and share the beliefs and standards of the Celebrant Accord
A civil funeral ceremony is appropriate for cremations and burials and often held in a crematorium or chapel, although it can be held at a variety of locations to ensure the setting itself is as personal as the ceremony.
​
The ceremony can include music, readings, poetry and symbolic gestures such as candles and photographs.
The ceremony can be entirely non-religious or can include religious or spiritual elements such as prayers and hymns .
Everything is put together with the support of a funeral celebrant to create a ceremony that is respectful, personal and memorable.
Working with you and helping you create bespoke and meaningful ceremonies
Funeral Ceremonies
Memorial services
A memorial service is typically held some time after a private, family funeral or direct cremation and is a time to reflect on a life and legacy.
There are no rules about how formal or relaxed it is; the ceremony is guided by the story of the person who has died.
It can include several tributes and readings, a slideshow of photos, mementoes or favourite music. I will work with you to get it right and I’m always happy to create something new or different in a venue that is meaningful to you.
Scattering Ashes
Many people now prefer to scatter the ashes of their loved one in a favourite place or location that meant something to them. While there are no national laws restricting the scattering of ashes you do need to check before going ahead.
I can help you create a ceremony that reflects and celebrates your loved one and creates positive lasting memories in a favourite place. Please see my Alternative Ceremonies page for further information .
I will work with you to create meaningful ceremonies: a celebration of life, cremation, burial or themed funeral.
These can be completely secular or with religious or spiritual content.
I will meet with you and spend the time you need so I can capture the essence of the person and create a narrative that is both accurate and apt.
If needed I can provide guidance and ideas on readings, poetry and music.
A printed presentation script is supplied after the ceremony.
Debbie Donnelly Tel: 07799 178384
Qualifications
NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Funeral Celebrancy
How to get in touch
