Literature and poetry
Claire's interest in literature can be helpful when you are looking for words. You might have a favourite passage already, or want to explore a reading that says something about the person.
Humanist funeral celebrant · London
Claire Johnston
Trained with Humanists UK, Claire has a background in law and teaching. She listens carefully to people's stories and brings a love of literature, music and French to her ceremonies.
Her non-religious funerals and memorials offer time to remember the person, hear their stories and say goodbye.
Humanist celebrant
Member of Humanists UK
Her interests
Literature and language
Celebrant fee
Ask Claire about fees
Claire's approach
Beginning with the stories you want to tell
Some people come to a first meeting with a carefully written account of a life. Others have a handful of stories, photographs or memories they want someone to hear.
Claire listens to what you tell her and helps turn those memories into a tribute. You can talk about the person's relationships, the things they cared about and the everyday details you would like to include.
There is no need to make everything sound polished before you meet. A story does not need to be extraordinary to matter.
Working with Claire
What Claire brings to a funeral
A poem, a song or a passage from a much-loved book can give people another way to remember someone.
Music and memory
Music can bring back a time, a place or a person very quickly. Think about the songs they played, the music they made and what you would like people to hear together.
Language and connection
A name pronounced properly or a reading in a familiar language can matter deeply. Tell Claire about the languages that are part of the person's life and any words you hope to include.
A humanist ceremony
A non-religious funeral, centred on a life
A humanist funeral remembers a person through the life they lived, their relationships and what mattered to them. The ceremony is non-religious and can include music, readings, spoken tributes and quiet reflection.
People attending may have many different beliefs. A humanist ceremony welcomes everyone while keeping the focus on the person being remembered.
If Poetic Endings is arranging the funeral, we'll coordinate the practical details with Claire, including the venue and timings. We are there on the day, while Claire leads the ceremony.
Explore places to hold a funeralAbout Claire
Law, teaching and a love of words
Claire's professional background is in law and English teaching. She lives in south-east London and works across London.
She has a Scottish background and a particular knowledge of Scottish songs and poetry. She also sings in a choir.
Claire is fluent in French and can incorporate French, Spanish or German words and readings into a ceremony. Talk to her about what you would like to include.
Fees and contact
Speak to Claire
Celebrant fee
Claire can confirm the fee, what is included and her availability when you discuss your plans with her.
Have a conversation first
We always suggest speaking to a celebrant before deciding who you'd like to lead a funeral. You can tell Claire a little about the person who has died, ask questions and get a sense of whether her approach feels right for you.
Claire's celebrant fee is separate from Poetic Endings' funeral directing fees and any crematorium, burial ground or venue costs.
A few practical questions
Working with Claire
Will Claire's ceremony be non-religious?
Yes. Claire leads humanist funerals and memorials. The ceremony focuses on the person's life and the memories people share, without religious worship. People with different beliefs are welcome to attend.
Can we include French or another language?
Claire is fluent in French and can include French, Spanish or German words or readings. Speak to her about the language and the amount of material you have in mind so you can agree what will work best.
Can we choose our own readings and music?
Yes. You can bring your ideas to Claire, whether that's a favourite poem, a song or a reading someone would like to share. If you are unsure, she can suggest possibilities for you to consider.
Do we have to use Poetic Endings to book Claire?
No. You can contact Claire directly. If Poetic Endings is arranging the funeral, we'll work with her to coordinate the ceremony and practical arrangements.
How much does Claire charge?
Please ask Claire about fees. She can confirm the cost and what it includes before you book. This is separate from the funeral director's fees and other funeral costs.
Choosing a celebrant
There are many different approaches to leading a funeral. If you're arranging a funeral with Poetic Endings, we can help you find the right celebrant and coordinate the arrangements.