"The Guide to a Dead Brilliant Funeral Speech" is the handbook for those who are privileged to deliver funeral eulogies/speeches as a profession or for those called upon to speak at a funeral for the very first time. It is a light hearted yet powerful guide to helping funeral officiants deliver a memorable funeral speech that leaves an audience feeling, 'that was the best funeral I have ever attended'. Neil offers tools, tips and technical advice on how to communicate effectively at a funeral, in addition to humorous stories and reflections that point to radical changes taking place within the world of funeral ceremonies towards personalised and bespoke funeral services.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 - Everybody's Talkin' - Harry Neilson Why is this profession so special? Chapter 2 - Young At Heart - The Bluebells From baby boomers to iTunes - How new generations are changing the way we think about funerals. Chapter 3 - Spirit In The Sky - Dr and the Medics Why have rites and funerals anyway? Chapter 4 - Say Hello Wave Goodbye - David Gray The basics of being a great Civil Funeral Celebrant. Chapter 5 - Every Breath You Take - The Police The art of being a memorable speaker at a funeral. Chapter 6 - What Becomes Of The Broken Hearted - Jimmy Ruffin The more challenging funeral ceremonies - Babies and children, murders and suicide. Chapter 7 - I Can See Clearly Now - Jimmy Cliff Advice to Celebrants in helping family members deliver a eulogy. Chapter 8 - It's My Party And I'll Cry If I Want To - Lesley Gore Encouraging people to write their own eulogy. Chapter 9 - My Way - Frank Sinatra Conclusion. Chapter 10 - My Life Flows On - Aled Jones How to write your own eulogy - I offer you my own life story for my funeral.

About the Author

Neil is one of the most experienced Civil Funeral Celebrants in the UK. He is a member of the Professional Speakers Association, the joint President of the Association of Independent Celebrants and the Director of Studies for the UK Division of the International College of Celebrancy. He divides his time between speaking at funerals, coaching, training people to become Civil Funeral Celebrants and delivering keynotes and workshops on the theme of 'Legacy' and 'This is your life'.

Reviews

If you are looking for a guide on how to speak at a funeral that is full of passion, you have found the right book.A" Pam Vetter, The Funeral Lady, USA There is no such thing as a short cut to a good funeral...Neil Dorward's book will ensure the highest standards of excellence.A" Dally Messenger III Principal, International College Of Celebrancy, Australia