Justin Standfield Celebrant

18/06/2026

🐾 Today I led the service for a man described by his family as a “lovable eccentric”.

His family shared stories of a kind-hearted, wonderfully individual man who embraced life with curiosity, creativity and humour.

One of the most touching moments was having his beloved Cocker Spaniel, Yeti, present at the service, a fitting tribute to a companion who brought him so much joy.

Every farewell is an opportunity to honour it with dignity and love.

, Adrian.

16/06/2026

Today I was honoured to lead a where the stories of the man’s life painted a picture of a genuinely kind, loyal person who found joy in life’s simple pleasures and cared deeply for the people around him.

Quiet acts of love, companionship and kindness really do seem to leave the deepest legacy.

, Phil.

16/06/2026

https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/26186771.hampshire-estate-applies-build-natural-burial-ground/

A change of use application has been submitted to Wi******er City Council to create a new burial plot near Alresford.

15/06/2026

13/06/2026

Some poems are less about and more about appreciation, gratitude and the quiet beauty of everyday life.

Those pieces often land softly in a ceremony and stay with people for a long time afterwards.

11/06/2026

This reading offers families a moment of soft permission - permission to honestly, yet also to keep living in the way their person would recognise.

Its warmth lies in reminding us that doesn’t ask for grand gestures, only that we carry on being ourselves.

10/06/2026

10/06/2026

Today I led a celebrating a life marked by kindness, humour, curiosity and a genuine enjoyment of people.

Listening to the stories shared by family and friends was a powerful reminder that the way we make others feel is often what endures longest.

It was a privilege to help honour a life well lived, a life spanning 91 years.

, Michael.

06/06/2026

“LOVE CAME FIRST. You don't move on after , but you must move with. You must shake hands with , welcome her in, for she lives with you now. Pull her a chair at the table and offer her comfort. She is not the monster you first thought her to be. She is love.
And she will walk with you now, stay with you now, peacefully. If you let her. And on the days when your anger is high, remember why she came, remember who she represents. Remember. Grief came to you, my friend, because love came first. Love came first.”

From ‘Wild Hope’ by Donna Ashworth

04/06/2026

Earlier this week I led four micro-funerals at the newly launched ‘super venue’ Wessex Vale Crematorium. Hosted by Sarah Barrett from Wessex Vale, the evening was a chance for funeral directors, celebrants and ministers to see the available services/themes in action.

Guests from Westerleigh Group shared their experience of introducing the same beautiful and uplifting options in other locations.

The networking afterwards was valuable too.