When a loved one dies, families are often faced with new responsibilities at a time of deep sadness. On top of emotions and decisions, you may hear words and phrases you’ve never come across before.
At Harold P Heywood, T. Collins & Son and Wild & Brierley, we believe no family should feel unsure or overwhelmed by funeral terminology. To help, we’ve created this gentle A–Z guide, explaining many of the words you may hear when arranging a funeral.
A-Z Funeral Glossary
Arrangement
Your first proper meeting with a funeral director, where you discuss wishes, practical details, and paperwork.
Ashes
‘Ashes’ refers to the cremated remains of a deceased person. Some may refer to them as ‘cremated remains’ but we prefer to use the word ashes as we believe it has a more dignified tone.
Bereavement
The period of grief and mourning following someone’s death.
Bearers (Pallbearers)
People who carry or escort the coffin, often family, friends, or funeral staff.
Celebrant
A person who leads the funeral service. This is the term usually used to describe a non-religious officiant (humanist/independent celebrant).
Clergy
This term is usually used to reference the group of religious officials specially prepared and authorised to conduct religious services
Chapel of Rest
A private space at the funeral home where families can visit their loved one.
Coffin / Casket
The container in which the deceased is placed. “Coffin” usually has six sides; “casket” is typically rectangular.
Committal
The final act of a funeral service. This term can be used for a burial or cremation.
Cortege
The funeral procession, usually beginning at the home or funeral home and travelling to the service.
Direct Cremation
A simple cremation without a funeral service or mourners present. Due to widespread adverts you may know this service as a Pure Cremation. Families may later hold a memorial.
Eulogy
A speech given at a funeral service, remembering and celebrating the life of the person who has died.
Embalming
A process to preserve the body temporarily and restore a natural appearance, often requested if there will be viewings.
Executor
A person named in a will who is legally responsible for carrying out the wishes of the deceased, including funeral arrangements.
Funeral Director
A trained professional who supports families with all aspects of arranging a funeral.
Father
In religious contexts, particularly Catholic and Orthodox traditions, “Father” (for priests) may be used to address or describe the person leading the service. Families may hear these titles during a church funeral.
Green or Eco Funeral
A funeral designed to minimise environmental impact, often using natural coffins and woodland burials.
Hearse
The vehicle that carries the coffin. These can be traditional black hearses, horse-drawn carriages, or bespoke alternatives.
Inquest
An official inquiry, led by a coroner, into the cause and circumstances of a death.
Interment
The burial of a coffin or ashes.
Mother
In religious contexts, a lady vicar may have a preference to be called “Mother” and may be used to address or describe the person leading the service. Families may hear these titles during a church funeral.
Obituary
A published notice of someone’s death, often including funeral details and words of tribute. An obituary is either placed in a newspaper or more often in recent times on social media.
Order of Service
A printed booklet guiding mourners through the service, including music, readings, and tributes.
Repatriation
The process of transporting someone who has died back to their home country, or bringing them into the UK from abroad.
Wake
A gathering held after the funeral, often with refreshments, where family and friends share memories.
Why We Share This Guide
Funeral terms can feel unfamiliar, especially when emotions are running high. By breaking them down simply, we hope this guide helps families feel more comfortable and confident at each step.
At Harold P Heywood, T. Collins & Son and Wild & Brierley, we’ll always take time to explain anything you’re unsure about. No question is ever too small.
Here for You
If you are needing to arrange a funeral now, or simply want to understand your choices for the future, our family is here to guide you with compassion and clarity. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for support.
