An Intimate Ceremony for Sharon Ford
Aaron and Brock wanted to keep the ceremony for their mum, Sharon, informal and relaxed, especially with only around 15 people attending. I suggested we gather in a semi-circle in front of Sharon’s casket and begin with an opening song to help everyone settle into the space together.
“Your coming together today acknowledges the love, the loss, and the grief that each of you brings, as you find your way into life without Sharon. Her death touches that tender part in you that wishes things could stay as they were, that feels she’s gone too soon.
You all knew her well. So, this is a time to share your stories, the moments that made you feel her care and love, the things she said or did that you’ll never forget, the ways she shaped your lives. There will be tears, and there will be laughter too. We’ll keep things simple, real, and honest, true to who Sharon was.
Sharon was a woman who cared deeply for those around her, who looked out for the little people; she gave to those she cared about throughout her life, and lived her life with courage, practicality, and integrity. Today is a time for remembering Sharon as she was: kind, generous, stubborn, loving, and true to herself.”
Sharon’s brother chose a Bible reading which was followed by a short but heartfelt eulogy written by Brock. After that, I opened the floor for stories and tributes.
“Now we’d like to invite you to share stories and memories of Sharon. There’s no right or wrong way to do this, just speak from your heart. Sharon loved a chat, and she loved the little things in life, so feel free to tell us about anything that reminds you of her. Every story matters even if it’s just a sentence or two. Think of this as having a coffee together with her, talking, remembering, and celebrating her life.”
It can feel daunting for people who haven’t experienced an intimate ceremony like this before, but it didn’t take long before the stories began flowing. Someone would call out, “Remember when…,” which would spark even funnier, warmer, and more tender memories from around the circle.
I had a few guiding questions prepared just in case we needed them, but they weren’t necessary, Sharon’s family carried the moment beautifully.
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- Can anyone share a time Sharon went out of her way to help someone, big or small?
- Who remembers a time Sharon’s stubborn streak or honesty really showed?
- What little habits or routines of Sharon’s do you remember? Coffee, crosswords, her capacity to organise things?
- Who remembers her at netball, running, wanting to be a jockey?
- Did she ever give advice, tips, or practical help that you’ll never forget?
- Who remembers a moment with Sharon that made you smile — a quick smirk or the way she’d start another conversation just when you were leaving?
- What’s one thing you learned from Sharon that you’ll carry with you — about kindness, resilience, or standing up for the underdog?
We paused for a reflection song and some photos, then I offered some words of remembrance before the closing words. We included a blessing from John O’Donohue, one of my favourite poets.
A Blessing for the Good Hearted – Inspired by John O’Donohue
For Sharon.
May the quiet light of your kindness
shine in the dark places where we walk.
May your generosity continue to ripple outward,
blessing those who never knew your name.
May the memory of your steady heart
remind us to trust life’s small, faithful acts of love.
And may you rest now,
in the peace that holds all things.
The ceremony was simple, spacious and what Sharon would have loved, and exactly what her sons, Aaron and Brock had hoped for.
