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For some families, the moment the curtains close at a funeral can be unexpectedly unsettling. Such a simple act can leave you feeling off balance—suddenly unsure where your loved one has gone, what is happening to them, and when they will be returned to you. The world behind the curtain can feel strangely distant, elusive, separate from your own. It may sound surprising, but in our 30+ years supporting families across the Southeast, we know these thoughts are more common than you might think. That is why we want to help—by dispelling the myths, sharing the facts, and offering some gentle reassurance about what really happens beyond the curtain.

Through 30+ years of working local funeral directors across West Kent and Southeast London, we’ve seen society get progressively better at speaking to loved ones about funerals, meaning that a lot of the mystery and myth surrounding our trade has – thankfully – started to clear. However, one question that we are still often asked is ‘what does a funeral arranger do?’ We sat down with Tunbridge Wells’ funeral arranger Sam O’flynn to find out the responsibilities, trials and triumphs that come with being a funeral arranger.

The funeral cortege – the journey that carries the deceased and mourners to the site of the funeral ceremony – has long been seen as a purely functional aspect of the service; a way from get from A to B. However, at Welham Jones, we believe that there are a whole host of opportunities that hide between these two little letters, and that the cortege it is an often-overlooked opportunity for loved ones to reminisce one last time. So, what are the popular sights that bring back memories for Tonbridge locals? and how can you customise your cortege?

Planning a funeral, whether for a loved one or for yourself in advance, is one of the most personal decisions you’ll ever make. It’s also one that often has to be made quickly, and during a time of great emotional stress. That’s why it’s so important to feel confident that the funeral director you choose is the right fit for your family. As a family-run, independent funeral director with branches across West Kent and South East London, we understand how crucial trust, transparency and compassion are when supporting someone through loss. Here’s how to make sure you’re in safe hands from the very start.

As a local, independent, family-run funeral director, we know the importance of putting an empathetic, compassionate face to a name, and being able to build a rapport with your funeral director. This is why it is our pleasure to introduce Tonbridge locals to Rosanna Hayward, our passionate and committed funeral arranger, overseeing our Tonbridge operations.

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to rage on, there is sadly no better news when it comes to funeral costs. SunLife recently released their Cost of Dying Report 2025 and found that it is currently more expensive than ever to die. But what do these statistics really mean? Where is your – or your loved ones’ – money going? And what financing options are available to ease stress in an already emotional time?

As a funeral director serving communities across West Kent and South East London, I’ve witnessed firsthand how music can profoundly shape a farewell. Whether you’re arranging a funeral in Sevenoaks, considering a pre-paid funeral plan in Tonbridge, or simply exploring options in Chislehurst and Bromley, understanding the role of music can be invaluable.

Today, cremation is the most popular choice when it comes to funerals in the UK. As funeral directors operating across West Kent and South East London, Welham Jones Funeral Directors see first hand how it outranks burial even more sharply in this crowded corner of the country where land is at a premium. Yet, surprisingly, just under a 150 years ago, the practice was still illegal. Why was that, and what changed for it to overtake traditional burials?

Choosing a funeral director is an important decision. Organising a funeral for a loved one – or planning your own funeral – is a key milestone event in your life. But how can you tell whether the funeral directors you are considering will treat you with professionalism, respect and empathy, that they will treat your loved one with dignity, and that they will deliver on the day? Our guide will help you make the right choice.

At Welham Jones, our funeral ‘first responders’ are at the heart of our care. We’re currently recruiting a new funeral first responder to join our trusted team, helping local families across West Kent and South East London at their time of need. But what does the job involve, and why is it so meaningful? We spoke to Jason Carr, a long-standing member of our team, to find out why this flexible and rewarding role is unlike any other.

How would you like your life to be commemorated? A recent survey suggests that, while some traditional funeral elements remain evergreen choices, some contemporary ideas are gaining definite ground among those thinking about their own funerals. 

With the average funeral in the UK now costing just under £5,000, it’s very common to have concerns about how you can ensure that your estate will be able to cover the costs of your funeral, or how to manage the costs if you have to arrange a funeral for a loved one. We guide you through the different options to ensure the costs of your funeral will be covered, as well as ways to create a fitting tribute to your loved one without breaking the bank.

While some of us don’t want to give any thought to our own funerals, others have a very clear idea of how we would like to be commemorated when our time comes. If you know what kind of funeral you would like, can you ensure that your wishes will be upheld? You may be surprised by the answer.

When you lose a loved one, you suddenly have only weeks to prepare their funeral – at a time when you are dealing with your own grief, and probably that of people close to you and the deceased. These key questions will help you choose a funeral director who will work with you to shape the farewell you would wish your loved one to have.    

Most people underestimate the number of decisions involved in organising a funeral, so giving your loved ones some guidance beforehand can take pressure off what is already an emotional time. It can also help their wellbeing if they know that your final farewell was in line with your wishes and they have done you proud.  

By completing a Letter of Wishes form, you can convey your wishes about the funeral you want and – at the same time – save your family from having to make any difficult decisions during a time of grief. The letter of wishes form for funerals It is not legally binding but is a useful and confidential communication to your loved ones.

People’s mindsets and attitudes towards funerals and death have shifted, with many viewing funerals as an opportunity to celebrate life, rather than mourn it. The first key decision you must make is whether you want to be cremated or buried and where you might like your final resting place to be. These decisions are all flexible and should be discussed with your funeral director.

Welham Jones has made it through to the finals of the Family Business of the Year Awards. Shortlisted in the South East category, the family values that run through every aspect of our business have been key in helping us reach the finals.

When choosing a funeral director, does it really matter if you choose a firm that is family run and local? And how can you tell the difference? Expert advice from a three-generation funeral director serving West Kent and Southeast London

The amount of time it is taking between a person passing and their funeral has increased – and it’s due to a change in the death certification process. Expert advice from a local, family run funeral directors serving West Kent and Southeast Londonm

Expert advice on how to leave your body to science from a three-generation, family run funeral directors’ serving the communities of West Kent and Souteast London

Being a funeral director is one of the oldest professions there is – but it takes a very special person to be a good funeral director. Expert advice from a local, family run funeral directors’ serving West Kent and Southeast London.

It’s been yet another exciting awards season here at Welham Jones.

Warm Holiday Greetings from Welham Jones – A Special Christmas Message