Tomos James, Funeral Celebrant
Creating personalised funeral and send-off ceremonies that celebrate life along the South Coast…
Hi –
I’m Tomos James – Tom – a funeral celebrant based in Portsmouth.
With over ten years of experience in the funeral industry, I am honoured to create heartfelt ceremonies that capture the spirit of the person who has died and bring comfort to those saying farewell.
Working with me, you can:
- Hold a send-off that feels like them – anytime, anywhere.
- Include all the things that feel right to you.
- Say farewell to them in a way that brings you comfort.
To arrange a ceremony or to chat about how I can help you, get in touch below. Alternatively, you can schedule time in my diary…
A little about me
In 2010, I began working at a local funeral home, arranging funerals and caring for the deceased. Later, I trained colleagues for their diplomas. Seeking a change, I retrained and became a qualified cremation technician at a nearby crematorium.
Now, I am a funeral celebrant based in Portsmouth. I celebrate the lives of people held dear and support their loved ones as they say farewell.
Ceremonies I offer
I am guided by the belief:
It’s the essence of us.
That spark of who we are and all we bring –
The love we share –
Makes us worth a celebration!
Since we’re all a wonderful mix of beautiful things – our loves, passions, experiences, and the little things we do every day. Those unique ways we express ourselves, our laughter, and even the faces we make when something’s too sour all add to who we are.
These elements shape our memories and leave a lasting impression.
The ceremonies I am honored to create know no bounds.
In the end, the only things that might hold us back are our imaginations and the time we have. Let’s dream big together!
My role as a funeral celebrant is to create a meaningful ceremony. It should genuinely capture the essence of the deceased and comfort those saying farewell.
Funeral ceremony
A funeral ceremony is a service in the presence of the deceased’s coffin.
Usually conducted at a cemetery or crematorium, it provides a gentle space for family and friends to gather and honour the life and love of the person who has died.
Memorial or send-off ceremony
A memorial or send-off ceremony allows for a celebration without the presence of their coffin.
This ceremony can be held anywhere that holds meaning – from a park bench to a beer garden – and at anytime after their death, allowing for a more relaxed and personalised farewell.
The personal touch
In every ceremony I conduct, I celebrate the life and love shared. My goal is to create a supportive space where family and friends can honour memories and say farewell with comfort.
I carefully design each ceremony to highlight the unique spirit of the person who has passed away. This way, we can capture and celebrate their essence and legacy, with every part reflecting the wishes and memories of their loved ones.
In addition, whether we include readings, poems, music, religious elements, live performances, or other personal touches, I make sure each ceremony is unique and memorable.
With years of experience in the funeral industry, I provide support and guidance throughout the process and can help you navigate this challenging time with care and compassion.
To find out more about how I work and what to expect, click here.
My commitment to you
I understand deeply how challenging this time can be, and I’m here to support you.
I am devoted to crafting ceremonies that bring comfort, honour life, and beautifully reflect the true essence of the person who has died.
Together, we can find the perfect ways to cherish their memory and celebrate their spirit.
Getting started
To arrange a ceremony or have a chat about how I can help, please get in touch or check my diary to schedule a meet-up.
Or, alternatively, speak with your chosen Funeral Director who will contact me on your behalf.
Kind words…
Don’t take my word for it – here are some kind words from those I have had the honour of working with:
My fee
Within 10 miles of home in Portsmouth, my fee matches the Church of England’s parochial funeral fee for 2025 – £234.
For more information on my fee and additional charges, click here.
Support & guidance
Funeral Directors
Latest posts…
Here, you can find helpful articles, personal reflections, the odd poem, and more about my work as a funeral celebrant.
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They’ve been waiting at the door for you
They’ve been waiting at the door for you,Just longing you back home.With tails a’wagAnd ears to scratchOh, how they’ve missed you soTheir little eyes been peerin’Through nose-stained windowpane -Waiting at the door for you,Longing for your face.
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Grief: A personal journey of knotted emotions
Appreciating our unique experience of loss…
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Time to Talk Day – February 6th
Today is Time to Talk Day – February 6th. A day dedicated to getting us talking about our mental health…