What Happens at a Funeral: The Funeral Process

About Emily

Experience

Emily Cross is a Content Marketer here at Aura. She works for Aura because she is genuinely passionate about quality, accessible funeral care, and she feels closely aligned with our mission to deliver those things. Not only is she a content expert, but she is also a practicing, self-employed death doula; her role at Aura allows her to bring those two forms of expertise together. When she writes about dealing with grief and death, she therefore writes from a position of expertise. Emily has even appeared on Sky News to explain how living funerals are changing the way we deal with death.

She is based in Dorset in South-West England, but she was born in the USA, where she was also educated. She gained a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts from the University of Chicago. She also has an End-of-Life Doula qualification from the University of Vermont. When she is not working, she loves to swim and to cook.

Posts reviewed by Emily

Songs to Remember a Loved One: Touching Tributes

Reviewed on November 21, 2025

Remembering a Loved One’s Birthday After Loss

Reviewed on November 21, 2025

Gifts for Grieving Friends They’ll Truly Appreciate

Reviewed on November 26, 2025

What to Say When Someone Dies: Kind, Real Words

Reviewed on July 15, 2025

Remembering Loved Ones at Christmas: Find Comfort

Reviewed on November 26, 2025

End-of-Life Stages in Hospice: What to Expect

Reviewed on March 31, 2025

End-of-Life Stages: What to Expect & How to Cope

Reviewed on March 7, 2025

Advance Care Planning in the UK: Start the Talk

Reviewed on July 15, 2025

Funeral Preplanning Guide: How to Preplan Your Funeral

Reviewed on March 13, 2025

Dying in Hospital: Essential Info for Loved Ones

Reviewed on November 26, 2025

Dealing with the Unexpected Death of a Loved One

Reviewed on March 10, 2025

Facts and Myths About Death: What’s True or Not

Reviewed on November 26, 2025

What to Do When Someone Dies: Immediate Next Steps

Reviewed on August 22, 2025

What Is a Death Cafe? Join Honest End-of-Life Talks

Reviewed on November 26, 2025

What to Say When You Don’t Know What to Say

Reviewed on July 15, 2025

Posts by Emily

Reading the Will After a Funeral: A Guide for Families

Posted on November 26, 2025

Can You Wear Jeans to a Funeral? Etiquette Explained

Posted on November 26, 2025

Obituary Examples: Thoughtful Templates & Tips

Posted on November 26, 2025

Alternatives to Flowers When Someone Has Died

Posted on November 26, 2025

Funeral Poems for Husband: Find Comfort in Words

Posted on November 26, 2025

Dying Matters Week: Why Talking About Death Matters

Posted on November 26, 2025

Memorial Tattoos for Lost Loved Ones You’ll Cherish Forever

Posted on November 26, 2025

Funeral Poems for Mum: Express Your Love & Loss

Posted on November 26, 2025

Funeral Dress Code for Men UK: What to Wear & Avoid

Posted on November 26, 2025

Losing a Friend: Coping Tips for Tough Times

Posted on November 26, 2025

Announcing a Death on Facebook: Gentle Guide

Posted on November 26, 2025

How to Reply to Condolences: Express Gratitude Gracefully

Posted on November 26, 2025

Death of an Estranged Parent: How to Cope

Posted on November 26, 2025

Words of Comfort for Dying Loved Ones: Speak from Heart

Posted on November 26, 2025

What to Say to Someone Going to a Funeral

Posted on November 26, 2025

Grief Podcasts: Find Comfort & Healing Stories

Posted on November 26, 2025

Friendship Funeral Poems to Honour a Dear Friend

Posted on November 26, 2025

What to Say When Someone Loses a Parent: Kind Words to Use

Posted on

Funeral Poems for Nan: Touching Tributes to Grandma

Posted on

Growing Around Grief: Embrace Healing After Loss

Posted on July 7, 2025

How to Sign a Sympathy Card with Grace & Care

Posted on July 7, 2025

Memorial Gifts to Honour and Remember Loved Ones

Posted on July 7, 2025

Loss of a Friend Quotes: Deep, Honest, Healing

Posted on July 7, 2025

What to Say When Someone Is Grieving: Support Tips

Posted on July 7, 2025

Funeral Quotes for Family & Friends to Remember

Posted on July 7, 2025

Grief Poems for Healing: Find Peace in Poetry

Posted on July 7, 2025

Death Anniversary of a Parent: Honouring Their Memory

Posted on July 7, 2025

Poems About Death: Timeless Words of Grief & Healing

Posted on July 7, 2025

Remembering a Friend Who Has Died: Heartfelt Ideas

Posted on September 3, 2025

How to Find Out if Someone Has Died: Step-by-Step

Posted on September 3, 2025

Books About Grief & Loss: Comfort Through Words

Posted on August 27, 2025

Coping with Grief at Christmas: Gentle Support Tips

Posted on July 16, 2025

Anticipatory Grief: What It Is and How to Cope

Posted on August 26, 2025

Books About Death That Comfort, Heal & Inspire

Posted on August 26, 2025

Short Condolence Messages for Sympathy Cards

Posted on September 1, 2025

Sympathy Messages for Funeral Flowers That Comfort

Posted on September 1, 2025

Heartfelt Condolence Messages for Every Loss

Posted on September 1, 2025

Grandad Funeral Flowers Ideas: Honour His Memory

Posted on September 1, 2025

Funeral Committal Words: Comforting Final Sayings

Posted on September 1, 2025

First Death Anniversary: Ways to Honour a Loved One

Posted on July 10, 2025

Compassionate Leave UK: Your Rights Explained

Posted on June 6, 2025

Grief & Loss Quotes That Bring Peace & Hope

Posted on June 6, 2025

Funeral Poems for Dad: Honour His Memory

Posted on June 6, 2025

How to Announce a Death: Guide for Families & Friends

Posted on June 6, 2025

Celebrity Funerals: Inside Iconic Farewells

Posted on June 6, 2025

Funeral Wake Ideas: Thoughtful Ways to Remember

Posted on June 6, 2025

Funeral Tribute Examples: Write a Meaningful Goodbye

Posted on June 6, 2025

Eulogy for a Friend: How to Write & What to Say

Posted on August 26, 2025

Funeral Songs for Mum: Touching Tracks to Honour Her

Posted on August 26, 2025

DIY Funeral Flowers: Meaningful & Budget-Friendly

Posted on September 1, 2025

Alternatives to Funeral Flowers: Unique Tributes

Posted on September 1, 2025

How Does a Chapel of Rest Work? What to Expect

Posted on September 1, 2025

Humanist vs Celebrant: What Sets Them Apart?

Posted on September 1, 2025

What Is a Civil Celebrant? Explained Simply

Posted on September 1, 2025

How to Do Probate By Yourself: Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on September 1, 2025

Five Stages of Grief: Understanding Your Journey

Posted on May 2, 2025

Deed of Variation: Update a Will Quickly & Easily

Posted on May 2, 2025

Equity Release and Death: Crucial Insights Explained

Posted on May 2, 2025

What Is Power of Attorney? Key Facts You Should Know

Posted on May 2, 2025

Who Is Next of Kin? Definition, Rights & Role

Posted on May 2, 2025

Inheritance Tax on Gifts: Rules & Exemptions

Posted on May 2, 2025

7-Year Inheritance Tax Rule: What You Must Know

Posted on May 2, 2025

Order of Service Examples for a Thoughtful Tribute

Posted on May 8, 2025

Fun and Uplifting Funeral Songs to Celebrate Life

Posted on May 8, 2025

Dying Intestate Explained: Know Your Legal Rights

Posted on May 8, 2025

Funeral Announcement Examples for Every Situation

Posted on May 9, 2025

Who Can Conduct a Funeral: Your Guide to Options

Posted on May 9, 2025

Memorial Service Dress Code: What to Wear & Why

Posted on May 9, 2025

Funeral Flower Ideas: Beautiful & Thoughtful Options

Posted on May 9, 2025

What Colours to Wear to a Funeral: A Simple Guide

Posted on May 9, 2025

Funeral Arrangements Disagreements: What to Do

Posted on May 9, 2025

Funeral Attendance Etiquette: What to Know & Do

Posted on May 9, 2025

Poems for Scattering Ashes That Offer Comfort & Peace

Posted on May 9, 2025

Funeral Suit Guide: What to Wear & What to Avoid

Posted on May 9, 2025

British Funeral Attire Guide: What to Wear & Why

Posted on May 9, 2025

Eulogy Examples: Write the Perfect Tribute Today

Posted on May 9, 2025

Classical Funeral Music to Honour Loved Ones

Posted on May 9, 2025

Funeral Flower Etiquette: Dos & Don’ts Explained

Posted on May 9, 2025

What Does a Crematorium Look Like?

Posted on May 28, 2025

Funeral Poems: Beautiful Words for Saying Goodbye

Posted on May 28, 2025

Scattering Ashes at Sea: Rules & Best Practices

Posted on May 28, 2025

Next of Kin & Funeral Costs: Are You Responsible?

Posted on May 28, 2025

Traditional Cremation Alternatives: Unique Goodbyes

Posted on March 7, 2025

‘Tell Us Once’ Service Explained: What You Need to Know

Posted on March 7, 2025

How Location Affects Funeral Costs: Key Insights

Posted on October 31, 2025

How to Set Up a Trust: Protect Your Assets Today

Posted on October 31, 2025

How to Cope with the Suicide of a Loved One

Posted on March 28, 2025

Why Time is the Most Precious Gift

Posted on March 28, 2025

Feeling Energy When Someone Dies

Posted on September 11, 2025

Living Funeral Ideas: Celebrate Life Your Way

Posted on May 16, 2025

What Is a Modern Funeral? A Guide to New Rituals

Posted on May 16, 2025

What Is a Digital Afterlife? Your Online Legacy

Posted on May 16, 2025

Can You Attend a Public Health Funeral?

Posted on May 16, 2025

Funeral Plans Regulations Explained: What You Must Know

Posted on May 16, 2025

Non-Religious Funerals: Plan a Thoughtful Goodbye

Posted on May 16, 2025

What Type of Leave Do You Take for a Funeral?

Posted on May 16, 2025

British Funeral Traditions: Customs & Etiquette

Posted on July 30, 2025

Funeral Etiquette in the UK: What to Know & Wear

Posted on

Who Is Responsible for Funeral Costs?

Posted on

What Is a Funeral Celebrant? Full Guide & Insights

Posted on May 9, 2025

Types of Funerals and Their Costs

Posted on June 2, 2025

The UK’s Assisted Dying Bill: What You Need to Know

Posted on May 30, 2025

What Happens When Someone Dies in a Care Home?

Posted on March 21, 2025

How to Plan Your Own Funeral: A Complete Checklist

Posted on May 30, 2025

How to Share Your Life Story: Inspire & Connect

Posted on March 10, 2025

Best Life-Affirming Books: Feel Hopeful Again

Posted on March 5, 2025

What Is an Intimate Funeral? Small, Meaningful Farewells

Posted on February 26, 2025

How to Choose an Executor for a Will with Confidence

Posted on August 26, 2025

Bereavement in the Workplace: Laws & Best Practice

Posted on June 23, 2025

Dealing with Dementia and End of Life: Top Tips for Comfort

Posted on March 17, 2025

Understanding Organ Donation in the UK: A Guide

Posted on March 17, 2025

Questions to Ask a Funeral Director: Be Fully Prepared

Posted on March 17, 2025

DIY Funerals Made Simple: Save Money & Stay in Control

Posted on May 16, 2025

How to Choose a Direct Cremation Provider: Tips and Tricks

Posted on May 16, 2025

Guide to Symbols of Grief: Understand Their Power

Posted on May 16, 2025

How to Find Lost Assets Fast: Dormant Funds Guide

Posted on May 16, 2025

What Is Beautiful About Death? Finding Meaning & Peace

Posted on May 16, 2025

How to Start a Conversation About Death

Posted on March 17, 2025

MEET OUR EXPERTS

Emily Cross

Self-Employed Death Doula

About Emily

Experience

Posts reviewed by Emily

Posts by Emily