For generations, funerals in the UK were almost always religious. They took place in churches, included hymns and prayers, and followed traditions rooted in faith. Today, more people are choosing a service that reflects personal values rather than religious beliefs.
A non-religious funeral gives families the freedom to create a farewell that truly captures the essence of the person who has died. It can be formal or relaxed, traditional in structure or completely unique. The focus is on the life that was lived, not on religious doctrine or the promise of an afterlife.
This type of service is often chosen when someone did not follow a particular faith, or described themselves as an atheist, agnostic, or humanist. It can also be the right choice for families who want a farewell that celebrates individuality, love, and shared memories.
For more inspiration and ideas, download our free guide on planning a unique send-off.
What is a non-religious funeral?
A non-religious funeral is a ceremony that honours someone’s life without using prayers, hymns, or readings linked to faith. It focuses on the person’s story, their character, achievements, values, and the memories they leave behind.
The service might still include many of the same elements as a traditional funeral, such as readings, music, or a eulogy. However, everything is chosen to reflect the personality of the person being remembered. The tone can be uplifting, reflective, or light-hearted, depending on their wishes or those of their loved ones.
There are no strict rules. Each ceremony is shaped by the family and guided by whoever leads the service.
What is another name for a non-religious funeral?
You may hear non-religious funerals described as humanist funerals or celebrations of life. These terms often overlap but can mean slightly different things.
A humanist funeral is led by a trained humanist celebrant and focuses entirely on the life and values of the person who has died. There is no mention of religion or an afterlife.
A celebration of life is a broader term. It can take place after a cremation or burial, and may include stories, music, photos, and personal touches. It does not have to follow a set structure and can be as creative as the family wishes.
Whether you call it a non-religious funeral, a humanist service, or a celebration of life, the aim is the same – to honour a life in a way that feels genuine and comforting.
Can you have a non-religious funeral?
Yes. Anyone can have a non-religious funeral. It is a deeply personal choice and can be arranged in many different ways.
Some families choose to separate the practical side of a funeral from the farewell itself. For example, they may opt for a pure cremation, also known as a direct cremation, where the cremation takes place without a service. Later, they hold a personal memorial or celebration of life that allows everyone to gather, share memories, and say goodbye in their own way.
This approach can be especially comforting, as it gives loved ones time to grieve and plan something that feels right. It also allows children, friends, and wider family to be part of a meaningful moment without the formality of a traditional service.
Who can lead a non-religious funeral?
There is no single right answer to this question.
A funeral celebrant is often chosen to lead a non-religious service. Celebrants work closely with families to plan a ceremony that captures the personality and values of the person who has died. They can help write the order of service, the eulogy, and suggest readings or music that reflect the individual’s life.
A humanist celebrant is trained specifically to conduct non-religious or humanist funerals. Their focus is entirely on the person who has died rather than on faith or belief.
Some families prefer to ask a relative or friend to lead the ceremony. This can make the occasion even more personal and intimate.
Where can a non-religious funeral be held?
A non-religious funeral can take place almost anywhere. The setting should feel comfortable and meaningful for those attending.
Many families choose a crematorium or a cemetery chapel. Others prefer community centres, gardens, or woodland burial sites. Some hold the service at home, in a favourite park, or by the sea.
If there will be a wake or memorial afterwards, this can be held in a social club, a village hall, or a favourite pub or café. The venue does not have to be formal. What matters most is that it reflects the person being remembered.
What happens at a non-religious funeral?
The format of a non-religious funeral depends entirely on the wishes of the person and their family.
A typical ceremony might include:
- A welcome and reflection: The celebrant greets guests and sets the tone, inviting everyone to reflect on the person’s life.
- A eulogy or tribute: A family member, friend, or the celebrant shares stories and memories that capture the spirit of the person who has died.
- Moments for reflection: There may be time for quiet thought or for listening to a piece of music that held special meaning.
- Readings or poems: Words from literature, poetry, or even something written by the family can be included.
- Closing words: The ceremony ends with a message of love, gratitude, and remembrance.
The atmosphere can be as formal or as relaxed as you wish. Some families choose to play favourite songs, share laughter, or show photos and videos to celebrate a full and joyful life.
Choosing readings for a non-religious funeral
Words have the power to comfort and connect us. Choosing readings or poems for a non-religious funeral is an opportunity to express love and remembrance in your own way.
Well-known non-religious funeral poems include Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep by Clare Harner, Death Is Nothing at All by Henry Scott-Holland, and I Carry Your Heart With Me by E. E. Cummings.
Some families prefer to create their own reading, using favourite sayings, song lyrics, or even snippets of conversation that capture the person’s humour or outlook on life. There is no need for formality. The most powerful words are often the simplest.
Music for a non-religious funeral
Music plays an important role in many farewells. Without hymns, you have the freedom to choose songs that hold personal meaning. This might be a piece that always lifted their spirits, a tune that reminds you of happy times, or something they loved to sing along to.
Popular non-religious funeral songs include My Way by Frank Sinatra, Always Look on the Bright Side of Life by Monty Python, Angels by Robbie Williams, and Time to Say Goodbye by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman.
The music you choose helps set the mood, from gentle reflection to celebration, and reminds everyone of the life they are there to honour.
Ideas for a personal, non-religious funeral
A non-religious funeral gives families the freedom to be creative and thoughtful. There are many ways to make the occasion personal and meaningful.
You might choose a unique coffin design inspired by a favourite place, hobby, or colour. Guests could be invited to wear bright clothes or something that reminds them of the person being celebrated.
Some families replace floral tributes with donations to a charity that held special meaning. Others hold the service outdoors in a place that was close to their loved one’s heart.
Every choice, no matter how small, adds something beautiful and personal to the day.
Arranging a non-religious funeral
If you are thinking about arranging a non-religious funeral, you are not alone. Many families want a service that focuses on life, not religion, and that reflects love in a simple, honest way.
At Pure Cremation, we can help with the practical steps by arranging a dignified cremation, while you plan a farewell that feels right for your family.
A pure cremation gives you the freedom to say goodbye on your own terms, without pressure or formality. When you are ready, you can create a moment that is personal, heartfelt, and full of meaning.
