What kind of funeral can I choose for my loved one?
Cremation or burial
The first step is deciding whether you would like a burial or a cremation.
Choosing between burial and cremation is a very personal decision.
Many families are guided by tradition, faith, or the wishes their loved one shared - either in conversation, in a Will, or through a prepaid funeral plan.
When you come to us to make the arrangements, your funeral director will take the time to gently guide you through every option, answer any questions, and support any choices you wish to honour.
You don’t have to have a funeral service, but many people find comfort in marking someone’s life with a ceremony - whether that’s something traditional, personal, religious or non-religious.
You’re not limited to a church or the crematorium chapel. A funeral service can be held almost anywhere, as long as the landowner gives permission.
Before making decisions, it’s helpful to check whether your loved one had a prepaid funeral plan or left any written wishes.
We’re here to help you create a service that feels right for you and your family.
Burial
If you choose burial, we’ll help you consider where this should take place and guide you through any local regulations and availability.
If you’d like to use an existing family grave, we can arrange that for you. We’ll help locate any deeds or documents if you don’t have them, and check that there is space for further burials.
If you're purchasing a new grave, some local authorities allow you to reserve the plot next to it for future use.
Costs you may need to consider can include:
Purchasing a new grave
Reopening an existing grave
Removing or replacing existing memorials
There may also be a charge for the exclusive right of burial, which ensures no further burials can take place without your permission. In many areas, this is also required if you’d like to place a memorial. Your funeral director will explain all local charges clearly and simply.
Cremation
Guernsey has a crematorium, operated by the Government of Guernsey, where both residents and non-residents can be cremated.
A service can be held in the nearby chapel at Le Foulon.
Your funeral director can help you plan the service, guide you through the paperwork, and advise you on things such as:
What items can be placed with your loved one
The different choices available for memorialising their ashes
Any personal touches you’d like to include