Steve's story

Man on chair in garden reading book | Steve's story | funeral stories | Poppy's funerals

When my husband Steve died this year, I was determined to do a funeral I wanted.

Steve was unique and I wanted a funeral in keeping with him as a man and that would support the family’s differing needs in saying goodbye. I started searching online and found Poppy's. I emailed my requests as I had run out of energy to speak to people and, amazingly, they replied quickly to all my wishes and with clear pricing that was affordable. More importantly even via email I could feel warmth. Phone calls followed which were just as helpful and understanding, for the first time I felt heard.

When we met in their office, it was a calm environment with sofas, plants and pictures. I was welcomed, given a cup of tea and put at ease immediately. They talked me through what I wanted, what they could do, nothing was too much trouble. They asked me questions to make sure they had understood everything and gave me opportunities to change my mind. They recommended celebrants based on my needs that I could meet and choose, rather than one assigned to me. I chose Andrew Bone who then came to my home, spent time getting to know the family, understand Steve's life and crafted a wonderful eulogy.

In the week leading up to the funeral both Andrew and Poppy's, called and emailed several times ensuring everything was how I wanted it and checking on all the small details or just asking if there was anything else I wanted.

“The motorbike hearse with wildflowers looked stunning - Steve would have loved his final ride (although I’m sure it didn’t go fast enough for him!)"

On the day the whole service was perfect, I’ve no idea how Andrew got Steve’s character down to a tee, but he did. The motorbike hearse with wildflowers looked stunning - Steve would have loved his final ride (although I’m sure it didn’t go fast enough for him!). Steve’s sons and nephews carried the coffin and because I had so much trust in Poppy’s and Andrew I felt able to share my tribute to Steve, feel completely present for the whole ceremony, and do the small things I wanted like place one of his favourite hats on the coffin as I left. The feedback I’ve had from those who attended has been so positive, everyone felt able to remember, celebrate and grieve for Steve in their own way as the whole service felt so supportive and personal.

Steve's choices

  • We chose a celebrant who spent time getting to know the family
  • Steve’s last ride was in a fantastic motorbike hearse
  • We decorated the hearse with wildflowers
  • Steve’s sons and nephews carried the coffin
  • We held a supportive and personal ceremony
  • We placed one of his favourite hats on the coffin
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