Home Funerals – Personal, Intimate Farewells in the Comfort of Home

A Farewell Where Love Lives – At Home

When someone you love dies, the environment in which you say goodbye becomes part of the memory you carry forward. For many, that place is home – the space that holds years of laughter, music, family gatherings, and quiet moments.

A home funeral offers an intimate, gentle, and highly personal way to care for your person after death. It allows more time for reflection, ceremony, and connection, free from the strict schedules and impersonal settings often found in traditional services.

At Life Rites Funerals, we specialise in supporting families who want to keep their loved one close, guiding you through every practical, emotional, and ceremonial step. We believe farewells should be as unique as the life lived, and that home can be the most comforting place to say goodbye.

Why Choose a Home Funeral?

Without guidance, the days after a death can feel rushed and overwhelming. Many families don’t realise they can choose to keep their loved one at home, or how healing it can be.

With our experienced team beside you, a home funeral offers:

Time and Space to Grieve – No need to hurry. You can spend as long as you need with your loved one, creating moments of quiet presence.
A Familiar, Comforting Setting – Be surrounded by familiar rooms, favourite music, and the warmth of your own space.
Personalisation Without Limits – From decorating the coffin to incorporating meaningful rituals, the farewell is entirely your own.
Inclusive and Respectful Care – We honour all beliefs, traditions, identities, and family structures.
Healing Through Involvement – Participating in washing, dressing, or simply sitting with your loved one can bring profound comfort and closure.

Every home funeral we arrange is unique, shaped by the family’s needs, beliefs, and vision. Options include:

Home Vigil – Your loved one stays at home for one or more days before burial or cremation, supported by our discreet cooling equipment.
Ceremonial Washing and Dressing – A chance for family and friends to prepare the body together, with our gentle guidance.
Coffin or Shroud Decoration – Paint, write messages, or adorn with flowers in your own time and space.
Ceremony at Home – Led by one of our celebrants or by family members, indoors or in the garden.
Practical Arrangements – Transport, legal paperwork, mortuary care, and liaison with other providers.

For more information on equipment and support for home vigils, visit our Home Vigil and Cool Plate page.

What a Home Funeral Can Include

Our role is to make the process simple, safe, and meaningful.

Initial Conversation – We listen to your wishes, answer your questions, and explain what’s possible within NSW regulations.
Preparing Your Person – At home or in our facilities before returning them, we ensure all care is respectful and dignified.
Creating the Space – We help you set up a serene environment, with flowers, candles, personal mementos, and soft lighting.
Ceremony or Vigil – Whether formal or informal, led by us or by you, we support you in creating a heartfelt farewell.
Final Farewell – Assistance with carrying your loved one to the hearse, walking them from the house, or accompanying them to burial or cremation.

How We Support You – Step by Step

Specialists in Home Funerals – Years of experience helping families farewell loved ones at home.
Holistic, Heart-Centred Approach – We integrate practical support with deep emotional care.
Inclusive and Queer-Informed – Welcoming to all identities and expressions.
Death Doula Expertise – Guidance through the emotional, spiritual, and logistical aspects of farewell.
24/7 Availability – We are here whenever you need us.
Recognised Professionals – Members of the Australian Funeral Directors Association (AFDA) and the Natural Death Advocacy Network (NDAN).

Why Families Choose Life Rites

A Real Family’s Story – Margaret’s Home Funeral

“When Margaret died peacefully at home, her family wanted her to remain there until burial. Having lived in her home for over 50 years, it was the place she loved most. Life Rites helped create a gentle, private space in her living room, surrounded by fresh blooms and family photos. Friends visited over two days, sharing memories and laughter. The family washed and dressed her in her favourite linen dress, adding a shawl knitted by her sister. On the morning of her burial, they carried her from the front door – the same place she had welcomed so many – knowing they had honoured her in the most personal way possible.”

Words From Families We’ve Helped

““When my mother died unexpectedly, I wanted to bring her home for a vigil. Victoria took my call late on a Sunday and gently took me through the options. From start to finish, I could not fault the team’s grace and professionalism.””

— Jen

““It was so helpful for me and my children to wash and dress my husband’s body and lay his special things in the coffin with him. Skye stepped us through each process gently and respectfully.””

— Maree Lipschitz

These personal experiences show how a home funeral can create space for healing, connection, and a farewell that truly reflects the person.

Frequently Asked Questions – Home Funerals

With proper cooling and care, one to three days is typical. We provide the necessary equipment and guidance.
Yes. Home vigils and ceremonies are legal, and we ensure all requirements are met.
No. You choose your involvement. We can handle everything or guide you through a more hands-on approach.
Absolutely. Many families hold the vigil at home, then move to a chapel or outdoor location for the ceremony.
We can adapt to your space, or help arrange part of the farewell at home and part elsewhere.