Cremations

Most popular funerals

Cremations are now the most popular form of funeral. Most people will want a ceremony at the crematorium – using their chapel – but you can also hold the service in a church or other venue of your choice prior to the cremation.

It is entirely up to you if you want the service to be religious or non-religious. A religious service will be conducted by an ordained minister or clergy from a specific faith or religion whereas a non-religious ceremony can have a civil celebrant or officiant from the humanist society.

Steven Mears Funeral Directors can help make arrangements for whichever type of service you would like.

What happens at a cremation service?

Depending on your preference, mourners may assemble outside awaiting the arrival of the hearse, or may take a seat in the chapel before the coffin is brought in. Alternatively, the coffin can be taken to the venue prior to the mourners arriving.

Unless you have asked for extra time for your service, a cremation funeral service usually lasts between 35 to 45 minutes. The service can include a number of hymns or non-religious songs that mean something to you, eulogies and readings. At the end of the service the coffin is usually obscured from view for mourners to pay their final respects before the cremation.

Most crematoriums are able to return a loved one’s ashes one working day after the cremation, and sometimes even the same day. At this stage you can think about what you would like to do with the ashes, some ideas you might like to consider are available here.

Steven Mears Funeral Directors can assist you in every step of the funeral and cremation arrangements so please don’t hesitate to ask us about any aspects or queries you may have.

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Ashes, Caskets, Urns and Keepsakes

We have a wide range of urns and caskets for this purpose in a variety of styles and materials such as wood, marble and stone.

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Our pricing

Funeral prices vary depending on the type of ceremony you would like for your loved one. There are many options to choose from to make it unique and special.

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Planning ahead?

It is now really easy to plan ahead, making a huge difference by easing the burden on your family when the time comes, so they can focus on the arrangements.

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Need advice?

Steven Mears Funeral Directors can assist you in every step of the funeral so please don’t hesitate to ask us about any aspects or queries you may have.

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Latest Reviews

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Attended a funeral conducted by this company the Sydenham branch and the directors all handled the day compassionately, dignifying and caring. They went over and above to ensure family members were not rushed, everyone was comfortable. Thank you for making the day perfect.…

Verna “Lioness1960”

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I would like to acknowledge the wonderful service we received from Michelle at the Sydenham Branch today. We had a viewing to see my Dad. Michelle prepared everything to perfection and just made a sad situation so much easier. We left smiling, knowing that Dad…

Bebe Oladipo

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We were very satisfied with the bespoke care that we received from Emma & her team. Thank you for taking care of my Mother-in-law & helping to make the day special

Louise Davies

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Emma was extremely professional without being too officious. She was caring, compassionate and, at times, funny which was just what we needed. She covered all aspects of the process and answered all our questions even the weird ones! My family and I are so grateful…

Toni Lester

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From the moment I visited to discuss the pre-plan arrangements one year earlier through to the end of the funeral I felt very well looked after and well advised by Steven Mears. In particular, Gill, who guided me through the funeral arrangements was incredibly helpful,…

Jim Henderson

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Gillian was very helpful throughout. Derek & his team were outstanding on the day. Polite friendly & professional throughout The horses and carriage were stunning. My mother in law would be very happy We all had a beautiful day and it was a wonderful celebration…

Mar

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I was apprehensive when the day started but the minute the horse drawn hearse arrived I was at ease. Derek the gentleman in charge was professional to a tee infact everyone the drivers were pleasant and on hand to help. The day was beautiful and…

dyth thompson

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Steven Mears Beckenham were absolutely brilliant when my dad passed away in September last year. It was such a difficult time and extra stressful due to his passing away suddenly whilst on holiday abroad with my mum. During the two months between his passing and…

Monica Fyfe

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I cannot thank Katie and the team highly enough for the service we received for my mum’s funeral. Nothing was too much trouble and they made a difficult time much easier. They even took a video of the jazz band, which led mum’s car to…

Jill Welch

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After losing my lovely Dad recently, I went with Steven Mears Funeral Directors. Jackie was the first port of call for us.. and I would like to thank her from the bottom of my heart, for her kindness and understanding, absolutely nothing was too much…

Susan Tebbutt

Thinking about a Funeral Plan?

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Choice Funeral plans enable you to arrange and pay for your Funeral Director Services in advance, which could provide peace of mind to you and your family.

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