Living Funerals: Celebrating Life While We're Still Here

Podcast Blog – Life’s Last Chapter: A Podcast About Life, Death, and Everything In Between

Have you ever wished you could hear your eulogy — the kind words, the memories, the impact you’ve had — while you’re still here to receive them?

That’s exactly what a living funeral offers. And in this episode of Life’s Last Chapter, we dive into this powerful and deeply human experience.

Our guest Michael, a celebrant and living funeral facilitator, shares what it was like to lead one of these ceremonies. He describes it simply:

“It was a privilege. The love and honesty that flowed through the group — you could feel it. People shared stories directly with the person they loved. There was laughter, tears, and so much connection.”

Held outdoors under a tree, this particular living funeral reminded Michael — and all of us — how healing it is to gather in truth, gratitude, and love.

What Is a Living Funeral?

A living funeral is a ceremony held for someone while they are still alive, often as they approach the end of life. Instead of mourning their death, people come together to celebrate their life.

There might be music, storytelling, food, or simply heartfelt words. These events can be formal or relaxed, held in a chapel, garden, backyard, or community hall — the key is intention.

Why Are People Choosing Living Funerals?

Many of us never get to say what we really want to say until it’s too late. A living funeral opens the space for:

  • Saying “thank you”

  • Sharing memories

  • Forgiving and reconnecting

  • Laughing together

  • Letting the person know how much they’re loved

Michael’s Experience as a Celebrant

As a celebrant, Michael has seen all kinds of ceremonies — but the living funeral he facilitated left a lasting impression.

“People spoke to her, not about her. There was a sense of honesty in the room. She cried, they cried. But there was also so much joy. It was beautiful — not tragic.”

This kind of event transforms what could be a time of fear or sadness into something rich and meaningful.

Pros and Cons of Living Funerals

Pros
Cons
The person gets to be present for their own celebration
It can be emotionally overwhelming
Allows loved ones to say what they truly feel
Not everyone may be comfortable with the concept
Brings closure, healing, and peace
Could stir up unresolved emotions or family dynamics
Offers a personalised, unique experience
Needs careful planning and sensitivity
Reframes death and opens deeper conversations
Some may misinterpret it as giving up

Final Thoughts

Living funerals aren’t about giving up — they’re about showing up. Fully. Honestly. With love.

If you’ve ever thought “I wish they knew how much they meant to me”, maybe this is your invitation to say it now.

🎧 Listen to the episode now
[Insert podcast audio link or embedded player]

📩 Have a story to share? Or thinking of planning a living funeral?
We’d love to hear from you. Email us or connect on social media @lifeslastchapterpod

🎙️ Life’s Last Chapter: A Podcast About Life, Death, and Everything In Between
Hosted by Kellie Sleep