Burials

Traditional or informal

Funeral services can be as formal or informal as you would like – and it’s entirely up to you as to how religious the service is depending on your beliefs and the wishes of your loved one.

Steven Mears Funeral Directors can organise the funeral and a burial at your chosen cemetery, graveyard or burial ground and purchase a grave on your behalf where necessary. Most burial grounds have a chapel or room where the service can take place, but you may decide you want the service to take place in a particular church or other venue that has meaning for you. 

If you already have a family burial plot we may be able to arrange for it to be reopened before the burial. If you would like burial plots which are next to each other, you’ll need to talk to the local authority about the possibility of purchasing or reserving multiple plots and again, we can help you with this.

What happens at a burial?

On the day of the funeral, depending on your preference, mourners may assemble outside the burial ground awaiting the arrival of the cortege with 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.

A funeral service usually lasts around 20 to 60 minutes and can include a number of hymns or non-religious songs that mean something to you, eulogies and readings.

Following the funeral service (should you choose to have one) the committal service usually takes place at the graveside with the minister, clergy or other non-religious officiant conducting the service. This can be tailored to your requests with readings, songs and prayers. 

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

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Memorial Masonry

We offer a masonry service for new pieces, additional inscriptions or renovations to existing memorials.

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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?

Choice

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.

Learn more about Choice Funeral Plans

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