Gerard Thomas Atkins
Funeral Celebrant
As a professionally trained celebrant, I am here to collaborate with the funeral director you select, ensuring a truly fitting service. If you're unfamiliar with funeral directors, I am happy to recommend one with whom I have worked before.
While many individuals feel obliged to follow traditional settings like churches, crematorium chapels, or gravesides for services, the reality is that there are no strict rules dictating the location. For instance, if the departed was a member of the local football club, we can hold the funeral service or memorial there.
What is the difference between a memorial and a funeral service:
A memorial is conducted at a venue of your choice, and it may or may not involve a coffin, perhaps only containing the ashes of the deceased. Opting for a memorial is an excellent choice if you prefer a direct cremation or want to avoid time constraints.
An increasing number of families are recognizing this option, which allows us to create beautiful tributes and alternative funerals that truly celebrate the life of their loved ones.
My name is Gerard Thomas Atkins and I’m a civil celebrant. I trained with the International College of Professional Celebrants and have a level 3 NONC National Qualification Diploma in Funeral Celebrancy.
I was born and grew up in Bedford where I attended St Thomas More school. I retired from teaching in 2019 after 25 years teaching music and English in North Bedfordshire schools. My experience as a teacher has given me many important skills in building relationships with people, communicating with and working alongside others. I have prided my self in demonstrating genuine care, empathy and professionalism.
As a person who leads ceremonies, I believe we should show our love, respect, and high regard at big moments in our lives. We should do our best to put our feelings into words - whether they are happiness, sadness, hope, or love. In times of sadness, especially when saying goodbye to loved ones, I aim to help people put their thoughts and feelings into words that bring them some comfort. I love the English language, its wide range of words and deep ways of saying things. It has the power to make people feel strong emotions, from laughter to tears, especially when spoken out loud.
Location
Gerard Thomas Atkins Celebrant
Bedford, England, United Kingdom
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