"We had a multi-faith funeral."

Picture of Richard, older white man, smiling. Text: We had a multi-faith funeral.

"When my husband Richard was being treated for Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, we had not yet discussed his possible death or funeral arrangements.

"I knew this was something we needed to do. While Richard was receiving treatment, I arranged a meeting at Poppy’s and immediately felt welcomed and comfortable.

"After Richard died, Victoria at Poppy's helped to coordinate everything. She found exactly the right coffin, in bamboo which he loved. It became a work of art, perfect for friends and family to tuck their personal floral tributes into at the end of the funeral when saying their own farewells.

"The service reflected Richard’s Jewish and Buddhist beliefs. The Kaddish led by his brother, prayers for the dead chanted by Lama Zangmo and friends from Samye Dzong London, and his favourite hymns, readings and poems.

"I had a lot of help from my church and in the priest’s openness in welcoming Richard’s multi-faith service.

"It was important to us as a family that Richard’s body was taken care of in such a dignified, beautiful and natural way. It was just how he would have wanted it. I felt very peaceful after seeing him in that lovely quiet space."

Richard's choices

  • Richard loved bamboo and so we chose a bamboo coffin.
  • The family carried the coffin.
  • We had a church service and the family gathered at the crematorium later.
  • The service reflected Richard’s Jewish and Buddhist beliefs.
  • We served food our friends had made.
  • We said goodbye by decorating Richard’s coffin with flowers.
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