Funeral ceremonies
Personal ceremonies at crematoria, burial grounds, natural burial sites and other meaningful venues.
Explore ceremony choicesIndependent funeral celebrant
Ceremonies shaped around the person and their story
Warm, personal and inclusive ceremonies across Gloucestershire and the South West.
FuneralsCelebrations of LifeAshes CeremoniesNatural Burials
Based in Hardwicke, Gloucester, and happy to meet families in person
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PersonalWritten around one unique life
InclusiveWelcoming every belief and background
SupportiveClear guidance from our first conversation
A steady presence when it matters
Your person, their story, your way.
I’m David Edwards, an independent funeral celebrant based in Gloucestershire. I create personal ceremonies that reflect the person being remembered, the relationships they shared and the life they lived.
A good funeral does not pretend that every life, or every relationship, was simple. It makes space for the whole person: their character, their values, the moments that made people smile and the difference they made to those around them.
I am accredited by Humanists UK, but I work independently and support families of all beliefs and backgrounds. A ceremony can be entirely non-religious or include hymns, prayers, readings and traditions that hold meaning for you.
Ceremonies with meaning
A fitting reflection of a life
Every ceremony begins with listening. There is no template and no expectation that your family should fit a particular mould.
Celebrations of Life
Flexible gatherings with more space for stories, music, photographs and shared memories.
Explore celebrations of lifeAshes ceremonies
Intimate ceremonies for scattering, burying or bringing ashes together in a place that holds meaning.
Explore ashes ceremoniesNatural burials
Personal outdoor ceremonies in woodland, meadow and other natural burial grounds.
Explore natural burialsA ceremony shaped around your beliefs
Independent, inclusive and led by what matters to you
My Humanists UK accreditation gives families the reassurance of recognised professional standards. Working independently gives us the freedom to create the ceremony that is right for you.
It may be entirely non-religious, include a hymn or prayer, or bring together different beliefs within one family. The person being remembered - and your wishes - remain at the centre.
How it works
Clear support, from first conversation to final words
We have a conversation
There is no obligation and no pressure. I listen, answer questions and learn what matters to you.
I shape the ceremony
Together we agree the tone, music, readings and contributors. I then write a ceremony that is entirely personal.
I lead on the day
I work closely with your funeral director and guide everyone through the ceremony with warmth, clarity and care.
Kind words from families
What families have said
All three reviews were shared publicly on Google.
“David was kind, sensitive, and very supportive when we had to arrange my Mother's funeral. He gathered information thoroughly and made sure that we were happy with the proposed service. He then delivered the service beautifully. Mourners, including many with religious beliefs, were very complimentary about the service which really reflected not only Mum's life but also her personality. Thank you David, for doing an important job very well.”
PGoogle review
“David was absolutely spot on with his wording from my conversation we had talking about my late father, he took notes and composed it in his own words perfectly well and it was as if he knew my dad, which was very special. He was very compassionate about the importance of understanding the family as a whole.”
Carol AlexanderGoogle review
“David expertly guided us through an extremely difficult time following the unexpected death of my partner Richard. He was sensitive to our wishes in every way and supported myself and our family in delivering Richard's unique story with detail, compassion and a touch of humour, which perfectly reflected his character and life. David demonstrated an ability to connect with us, translate our words into a beautiful story and he went out of his way to guide us through the detail of the day and ensure that everything ran smoothly. Thank you David for your warmth, care and professionalism.”
Sarah CanningGoogle review
“The first step is simply a conversation. You don’t need to have the right words or all the answers. I’ll help you find a way forward.”
David Edwards
Local and flexible
Serving Gloucestershire and the South West
I work with families and funeral directors across Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stroud, the Forest of Dean, Monmouthshire and the wider South West. I am happy to meet in person or speak by phone or video call.
Explore the areas I serveLet’s talk
Begin with a no-obligation conversation
Whether you are arranging a funeral now, planning ahead, or simply want to ask a question, you are very welcome to get in touch.
David EdwardsIndependent funeral celebrant · Humanists UK accredited
Call me07300 369410→Email medavid@davidedwardscelebrant.co.uk→WhatsApp meSend a message→
I will respond as soon as I can. If I am leading a ceremony, I may not be able to answer immediately, but I will return your call or message.