Planning a funeral is rarely something that our families have experience in. Combined with the emotion surrounding the passing of a loved one, we work hard to stand beside you with all the information you need. Every decision you make should be one that you feel comfortable with and one that properly marks the life of the one you are laying to rest. This is why we’ve pulled together a list of our FAQs – frequently asked questions that families have passed by us over the years.

If you are wondering how to start planning a funeral, whether you can add personal items to a coffin or how to find financial support, we’ve got the answers for you. Our goal is to make sure you’re fully informed with all the options available to you. Funerals are moments in time where your loved one should be celebrated properly. For many family’s, being able to personalise this send off to perfectly fit with the one they’ve lost can be comforting. It helps to create services that feel appropriate and true celebrations of their life. And within the funeral planning world, there are a lot of factors to consider. Take a scroll through the information below to find the answer to your questions.

Here at Wallace Stuart, we provide an award-winning funeral planning and directors service throughout Somerset. If you cannot find the answer to your question below, please feel free to contact us directly today. We’ll help you every step of the way.

We look after families with a range of funeral choices, from traditional ceremonies with all the personal touches to simple, low‑key cremations. Whatever you need, we’re here to guide you gently through it.

The simple answer is yes, at any time. You should be aware though, that the dismissed firm may charge if they have already carried out services. For example, removal of the deceased from the place of death, especially if this was out of hours. You will be responsible for these fees.

Yes you can put personal items in the coffin. However, any items which are glass, metal or combustible will need to removed before a cremation takes place.

Yes, we advise that clothing is provided for the deceased, especially if there will be chapel visits. The clothing can be anything you wish from favourite slippers to wedding dresses. It’s your choice. Please be aware that some items of clothing maybe unsuitable if the deceased is to be cremated. Therefore, we will return to you any item which cannot remain in the coffin, after the funeral has taken place.

Yes, we welcome any family members that may want to assist.

The chapel of rest is a room where family and friends can come and visit the deceased. Families can bring music, pictures and items which make the room feel personal to them. We ask for just an hours notice before a chapel visit takes place and families can stay for as long as they wish.

We do not charge for chapel visits to take place unless they are required when the family have chosen a Direct Cremation. But we will always discuss this with you.

We are happy to arrange this and will give you a short briefing  to ensure that we are all are prepared. Of course, we will be on hand to help at all times when the coffin is being carried.

Here you will find useful information from the government about what to do when someone dies https://www.gov.uk/after-a-death

The choices are endless. You may find the website Scattering Ashes useful for ideas, inspiration and products.

Please read our article section and information on our funeral plans. We’ve handpicked relevant and useful information for you. We hope it will save you time and money, plus help reassure you about the funeral process. See the latest news at the bottom of the page.

Yes, we are a fully independent funeral service run by lady funeral directors. This means families come first, not targets or sales. We take the time to care.

We’re based in North Petherton, Nr Bridgwater and care for families across Somerset, including Wellington, Taunton and the surrounding villages. If you’re unsure, just give us a call.

A traditional funeral is more in keeping with traditional touches ie: a traditional black hearse and bearers with the procession leaving from the family house. A simple cremation is a gentler, more straightforward option with fewer formalities, but still cared for with the same respect. Your loved one is taken to the crematorium earlier on the day of the funeral so that when we all walk into the chapel together, they are there ready.

Yes. If your family prefers a private cremation, with no family attending, we offer local direct cremations with clear prices and personal support throughout. The deceased still gets treated with the exact care and dignity and the family supported – just that on the day of the cremation, no-one attends at the crematorium. You can still choose the day the cremation takes place.

Every funeral is slightly different, but we make our prices as clear as possible so you always know where you stand. You will find all our pricing openly listed on our website. We always raise an estimate for our families after our first meeting so they can see how much the costs are likely to be.

Of course. Many people find peace of mind in putting their wishes in place. We can talk you through funeral plans or simply help you record your thoughts for the future.

If someone passes away from an expected illness, whether within a hospital setting or at home or a nursing home, the first legal requirement is for a medical professional to verify that the person has died. Once this has happened and you are ready, call us and we will bring your loved one into our care. They will rest with us at North Petherton. We will then gently guide you through the legal process and start to put together the funeral arrangements, when you are ready.

Yes. Many families appreciate a little inspiration at a difficult time, and we can share suggestions for meaningful music, poems and readings. We work with some wonderful ministers and celebrants who have a wealth of knowledge and are perfectly suited to helping you put together a funeral ceremony.

Most funerals take place within one to three weeks, depending on paperwork and venue availability. We’ll work with you to choose a time that feels right.

Absolutely. Whether you’d like favourite music, particular flowers, a special route, or something completely unique, we’ll help you shape a service that feels personal and fitting.