How to Plan a Funeral

How to Plan a Funeral in Ireland — With Heart, Heritage & Honesty

By Jennifer Muldowney, AKA “The Glam Reaper” – Author of Say Farewell Your Way: A Funeral Planning Guide for Ireland and 'Say Farewell the Irish Way

Planning a funeral is never easy. It’s emotional, often unexpected, and deeply personal. As someone who has walked this path with hundreds of families globally, I know that clarity and compassion go a long way during times of loss. Whether you’re honouring old traditions or creating a more modern memorial, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate funeral planning in Ireland.

1. Registering/Pronouncing the Death

If the death did not occur in a hospital you will need a local doctor. Do not move anything until the death has been pronounced by a doctor. The death must be legally registered with the local Civil Registration Office. This can be done by a close family member, next of kin, or a funeral director on your behalf. You’ll need:

A Medical Certificate of the Cause of Death (issued by the doctor)

The deceased’s personal details — full name, birth date, occupation, social security etc.

Once registered, you can request a Death Certificate — essential for handling legal matters like probate or pensions. The only exception run this case is the death of a still born child, you are not legally obliged to register the death. 

2. Choosing a Funeral Director

Most families in Ireland choose to work with a funeral director — a trusted guide through the logistics and paperwork. This is a wise move but know your rights and be prepared. Also note if there was a preplan made by the deceased at a particular funeral home. A good funeral director in Ireland will:

Handle legal documentation

Organise transportion and care of the deceased

Arrange the coffin, flowers, music, and notices - although this can be done by friends/family

Coordinate with the cemetery or crematorium

To find a reputable professional, consult the Irish Association of Funeral Directors (IAFD) or ask friends and neighbours for recommendations or reach out to me at muldowneymemorials@gmail.com and we can help with funeral directors we know and love.

3. Burial or Cremation

Traditionally, Ireland leans toward burial — often in a family plot, if one exists. Check with the cemetery if reopening is possible or if a new plot must be purchased.

Cremation is an increasingly popular choice in Ireland and your funeral director can help arrange. Traditional flame cremation is available at several crematoria across the country, and now, for those seeking a more environmentally conscious option, water cremation (also known as aquamation or alkaline hydrolysis) is offered in County Meath — the first of its kind in Ireland. Both options can provide respectful, meaningful farewells, tailored to your values and your loved one’s wishes.

4. Religious, Civil, or Humanist Service?

Catholic Funerals remain common, with a funeral Mass and burial.

Other faiths bring their own beautiful rituals like jewish, buddhist and more - choose whats right for you and your family.

Celebrant Led Ceremony offer a non-religious option — focused on celebrating the life lived, in a way that’s deeply personal and reflective of the individual. Let it be known that unless the celebrant is Humanist or Atheist specific then religion can be included in these services.

Whatever your beliefs or values, the right ceremony should feel true to the person being honoured and can be held anywhere.

5. Personalising the Funeral Service

This is where love lives — in the details. Think about:

Venue: Church, funeral home, crematorium chapel, or even the family garden, make it special and true to the deceased.

Speakers: Family or friends who might offer some remembrances or stories.

Music: Traditional hymns, favourite songs, they iTunes/Spotify playlist or live musicians.

Flowers or Donations: Decide what feels most appropriate — or meaningful. It does not have to cost the world.

6. Placing a Death Notice

Most families still share the sad news through local papers such as The Irish Times or The Independent, as well as online via RIP.ie but there are others. Nowadays folks will also use social media to spread the news. Notices often include funeral details, messages of love, and any donation requests (in lieu of flowers maybe). 

7. Holding a Wake or Gathering

The Irish wake is a cherished tradition — a chance to laugh, cry, tell stories, and feel the love of a community. These days, wakes may happen:

At home (a truly Irish send-off)

In a funeral home

Or as a reception at a hotel, pub, or favourite local spot

There’s no one “right” way — only what feels right for your family.

8. Legal & Financial Steps Afterwards

Once the service is complete, you may need to:

Inform banks, insurers, and pension providers

Apply for any available Bereavement Grants

Begin the probate process, if applicable

Again, a good funeral director or solicitor can guide you through this.

Final Thoughts: Do It Your Way

As I say in my books, funerals are about connection, healing, and honouring a life lived. Whether your person was deeply religious, proudly secular, or somewhere in between, the most important thing is that their farewell feels personal, loving, and genuine.

If you’d like more support — or want to start planning ahead — you can find more tools and guidance at muldowneymemorials.com.

Preplanning your own funeral

I would be remise to not advise you and your family and friends to plan ahead! Preplan your funeral if at all possible. Trust me it is the kindest gift you can leave to your loved ones. We offer 2 free PDFs to help you along - one is not for the faint of heart as it is 42 pages long and the other is a short 5Q one - easy to do, no excuses. Find the large one here: https://www.muldowneymemorials.com/shop/p/step-by-step-funeral-planning-guide

You’re not alone on this journey.

Jennifer
The Glam Reaper


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