Steve Game-Blackmoor of Last Rites

15/06/2026

Active listening isn't just about hearing words. It's about understanding what someone needs.

Sometimes people need a listening ear. Sometimes they need advice and guidance. Often, they need both.

The key is listening well enough to know the difference.

14/06/2026

Traditionally, listening to a eulogy has been the central component of a funeral, a speech that summarises an individual's life, accomplishments, and relationships. However, I am not particularly fond of this approach.

I believe that, rather than relying solely on a single speech, incorporating storytelling, personal memories, music, photographs, videos, and contributions from loved ones can significantly enhance the occasion's significance.

The emphasis shifts from merely listing achievements to highlighting the person's character, the impact they had on others, and the legacy they leave.

An increasing number of families now seek ceremonies that are authentic, engaging, and reflective of the individual’s personality. They desire room for personality, humour, emotion, and special moments—not just a formal biography.

Ultimately, what people tend to remember most is how they felt during the occasion, rather than every detail or achievement presented hurriedly.

What are your thoughts?

14/06/2026

11/06/2026

Watching UK politics today, it sometimes feels as though we're being encouraged to choose sides on everything. The debate becomes louder, the divisions seem deeper, and compromise is often portrayed as weakness.

Yet in my work, I regularly sit with families who come from very different political viewpoints, backgrounds and beliefs. When someone they love has died, those differences rarely matter.

Nobody talks about who won an argument on social media or which politician they supported. They talk about love, family, regrets, achievements, kindness and the impact a life had on others.

That's not to say politics isn't important—it is.

🕛 The decisions made in Westminster affect all of our lives. But working with bereaved families is a constant reminder that behind every policy, statistic and headline are real people with real stories.

Perhaps our politics would be healthier if we remembered that a little more often.

10/06/2026

What do you believe?

More often our thoughts extend beyond religion—about life, love, loss, and what happens when someone we love dies.

Our beliefs can deeply influence how we grieve, the questions we ponder, and the meaning we find in loss.

In my latest article for Last Chapter, I share how the stories we tell ourselves shape our approach to bereavement and remembrance.

📖 Beliefs – The Stories We Tell Ourselves

Link in comments 👇

fans

09/06/2026

Sharing a post from last February about a woman's beliefs again.

Trudy was a minimalist long before it became trendy, with little interest in possessions.

She prioritised people, experiences, and simple pleasures. In hindsight, I believe she grasped something many learn only after years: happiness often comes from appreciating enough, not having more.

Do you find that living with less helps you focus on what truly matters?

'With gratitude...
..I had the privilege of inviting Steve to honour my grandmother's remarkable 102 years of life. Grandma wished for a simple yet intimate ritual, resting peacefully in fresh white linen instead of a traditional coffin.

From the moment I met Steve, he was the perfect choice. His attentive listening, respect for Grandma's beliefs, and articulate delivery captured her essence beautifully. Dressed in a crisply ironed white open-neck shirt, Steve led the ceremony with warmth and grace.

The funeral was a unique experience, marked by Steve's care and expertise. I wholeheartedly endorse him for his professionalism and deep understanding of his role. He was truly meant for his work.'
- Aditi 🤍

07/06/2026

Beliefs are powerful.

They shape how we see ourselves, how we view others, and how we make sense of life's challenges.

Some beliefs help us grow. Some hold us back.

The question is:

Are your beliefs helping you move forward, or keeping you stuck?

What belief has helped you through a difficult time?

05/06/2026

marks the anniversary of Stoke-on-Trent being granted city status by King George V on 5 June 1925.

Now that my base is in Stoke-on-Trent, it feels fitting to mark the day with this view from Mow Cop, looking out across Staffordshire and beyond.

Proud to serve families across this remarkable city, county, and wider community.

04/06/2026

Deep Purple - Smoke on the Water. Takes me back to my band days during the late 70s. 🎶🎼🎵⏹️🪕💿🎸🎧

02/06/2026

Funeral Directors and Celebrants often work closely together, but their roles are quite different.

In my latest blog, I explore the distinct roles we each play and why, when we work well together, families benefit from the very best support.

Read the full post via the link in the comments.