Charles Preen
Funeral Celebrant
‘If there ever comes a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart, I’ll stay there forever.’ AA Milne
I am an independent funeral celebrant and a member of the Academy of Professional Celebrants.
My role is to help a family that has lost a loved one find the best way to say goodbye.
Planning the ceremony
As a celebrant, my role is to help create a funeral service that feels personal and heartfelt, honouring the life of the person who has died. Every ceremony is different, and I take care to find the right words to tell their story with warmth and respect.
I meet with the family to talk through their wishes, listen to their memories, and gather the details that matter most. From this, I put together a first draft of the service. Families often add or adjust things along the way, and together we shape it until it feels just right.
On the day, I use the final script to lead the service. Afterwards, I place it in a simple folder and give it to the family. At first, I wasn’t sure whether I should do this, but I’ve learned it often brings comfort. Alongside the Order of Service, it becomes a keepsake to return to in the days and years ahead.
It’s always a privilege to help families celebrate the life of someone they love, and I’m grateful for the trust they place in me at such an important time.
