Our next social bereavement group with Christmas memorial is on Mon 16th Dec 6-8pm
Call on 01643 800335

Our specialist and compassionate funeral support Bereavement Support in Minehead, Taunton & across Somerset & Devon

Our specialist and compassionate bereavement support

A listening ear and support to those grieving

Find Out More
Amanda-Louise Funeral Services - Somerset's female led funeral director

Our Bereavement Support

With our background, we have experience of working with families who have been bereaved, and sometimes being the first person they have spoken to.

Grief can be different for everyone,there are days when you feel okay and others where the simplest of things make the day seem unbearable. And as we are all different, so we are different in how we manage things.There is no wrong or right. We know if we bottle things up, it can present itself unexpectedly in the future, which is why its of benefit to consider our wellbeing now.

As a compassionate funeral directors,we care for our clients and offer a range of support. Below is how we do this:

Practical Support

We provide access to our online guides with practical help what to do when someone dies, our clients receive our 24/7 access with Amanda-Louise our Funeral Director with help planning a funeral. Our practical comprehensive guide bereavement support highlights what we offer, links to lots of useful websites, books suggested to read and podcasts to listen to. Often families tell us they do not understand where their emotions have come from, so the video link in that guide is useful to recognise your own grief.

Our listening ear

Amanda-Louise who is trained in bereavement counselling gives time to those who need a listening ear, to talk about precious memories to help to come to terms with a loss. We know that having a funeral ceremony/service helps everyone with their healing process too, so we work hard to ensure you have a funeral that provides that.

Our community support

Grief can be isolating and can cause a negative impact on our mental health. Talking to people does help, which is why we open our doors to those who are grieving in a safe environment. We affectionately call them our social bereavement coffee afternoons where anyone is invited, whether they have used us as their funeral directors or not.We do not charge – these are informal in format over a cuppa where you can stay for the whole session or just pop in,its really up to you. Its chance to connect, to talk about any concerns you may have, or reminisce over fond memories of your loved one. Again, its up to you. See our home page for the next date or contact Amanda-Louise.

Our child friendly grief support

Our experience working with children who have experienced loss, is that they grieve differently to adults, particularly at different times. Often a family have said to us they were surprised that the behaviour of their child had changed all of a sudden, although it was months after the death of someone they loved. So we offer free child-friendly worksheets so that parents can help their children come to terms with their loss, and to understand.

Amanda-Louise has also run an art therapy bereavement session with children before a memorial service, which was held at a hotel. The parents enjoyed their time sitting together reminiscing as a family, whilst we held the child friendly session in the restaurant to make use of the tables.The planned activities not only enabled the children to have fun making things for the person who had died, but their drawings expressed how they were feeling. One of the parents didn't know how their teenage was feeling,so that session benefited all of the family as they were able to sit and talk more freely.

Access to our specialist partnered services

For those who need more structured support, we provide access into our favoured counselling services of Woven Threads Counselling Somerset, who are an independent service. Being specialist and independent, their private charges are affordable for their expertise. Let us know if you would like to be referred.

Our way at Amanda-Louise Funeral Services

Whilst providing a variety of practical support and advice, our way is not to rush you. We tailor our support to meet the needs of our clients, and each of them are different.

Our way is to be that ear to listen, that shoulder to cry on if needed, hug when you need one, and when you are ready to smile and laugh with if that’s appropriate of course; all wrapped up in our woman’s understanding and care.‍

Download our PDF Brochure & Full Price List
Call us 07879 220 046
Full Package Pricing
What you can expect

Options that may fit better

Direct Funeral Package
Minehead Funeral Package
Traditional Bronze Funeral Package
Traditional Silver Funeral Package
Traditional Gold Funeral Package
Bespoke Funeral Plan
Woodland Natural Burial Package

More Services We Offer

Repatriation Services
Funeral Reception Wake Venue
Celebrations of Life Events
Scattering of ashes
Funeral Celebrant Services
Living Eulogy Funeral Services
Funerals for Babies and Children
Funerals for Military & Veterans
Green & Eco-Friendly Funerals
Funded Funerals
Weekend Funerals
DIY Home Funeral Support
Burial At Sea
Bereavement Support

Can't find what you are looking for?

Whether you want to talk through our funeral services or need help choosing from our range of funeral products. Get in touch with us today.

No items found.

More services we offer

Repatriation Services
Funeral Reception Wake Venue
Celebrations of Life Events
Scattering of ashes
Funeral Celebrant Services
Living Eulogy Funeral Services
Funerals for Babies and Children
Funerals for Military & Veterans
Green & Eco-Friendly Funerals
Funded Funerals
Weekend Funerals
DIY Home Funeral Support
Burial At Sea
Bereavement Support

What to expect from us
The enduring strength of women

We care for you and your family

As your Lady Funeral Directors, Amanda-Louise can meet you in the comfort of your own home, or in our peaceful office, or via video call if you'd prefer. We will never tell you how 'things should be done', or rush you, but support you to understand and consider your choices, so that you can decide what is right for you and your family and friends.

We will listen to you, and can help you plan a funeral ceremony. We'll respect your personal beliefs, values and culture and ensure your requirements, and those of the person that has died, are reflected in the funeral. You may prefer a religious funeral, a more secular service or might want to include a number of different religious and spiritual perspectives within the same service.

We can help you to reflect on the life of the person who has died and enable you to create some positive memories to support you at a time when people can often feel sad and alone. We can support you to have a farewell that you desire - so we will support you to understand the wide range of options such as visual, musical, floral, donations, readings/poems for example, as well as organising venue and/or hospitality for your after funeral wake or reception, if you wish.

Importantly, we will be flexible to your needs and wishes and give you our time to help put your ideas into action. You can take as much control as you like. We are able to support families from across Somerset or Devon, are not regionally restricted, we can help you create an event at a time and place that is best for you.

Amanda-Louise Funeral Director, can also personally deliver a heartfelt celebrant led service on your behalf should you wish, or we can recommend other talented professional ceremony leaders including religious ministers, celebrants and humanists.

We work hard to support the wellbeing of every family we support (adults and children).We can also provide a wealth of practical bereavement information for adults and children, and we'll ensure the funeral is meaningful for you, which helps in coming to terms with loss too.

We care for the person who has died

In our care you have trusted us to look after your loved one and we take enormous pride in treating people with respect and dignity. From the very moment the person who has died comes into our care, to the moment they leave, we will treat them with compassion, kindness and consideration. We see this as part of the cycle of life

We reach out and support people from 15 to 50+ miles away from us, as we safely transfer the deceased into our facilities. We'll care for the person entrusted into our funeral home with compassion and dignity, and treat everyone as guests in our home. Or we can assist if you prefer the deceased to remain at home or liaise with a repatriation company for deaths abroad.

We provide a comprehensive range of coffins in different materials, including coffin accessories to suit all tastes. This is a very personal choice, so we happily talk about them or can show you the differences.

We can provide the ability for family to spend time with their loved one, and to change clothing if this is important to you. Plus you can be involved in as little or as much of their care as you desire. We will gently prepare them for their funeral following your wishes including hairstyles or makeup, and whilst we do not routinely embalm we can provide this if you desire. We’ll take great care of any person effects, and give them to you ,or they will remain with the person Plus we can arrange for your items to be placed in the coffin if you wish.
‍
We can even support you to keep your loved one at home right up until their funeral if you wish.

On the day of the funeral

We understand that attention to detail is really important, from considering the way people enter the service to carefully calculating the journey time.

We can provide our professional pallbearers to convey the coffin. We can help you bear the coffin if that's important to you. We can arrange special routes to the funeral if you wish, or alternative hearses and limousines.

We can arrange to collect family from railway station or airport if helpful.

Some families prefer not to hold the funeral ceremony at a crematorium chapel or in church, so we can support you to have a service in a chosen hotel, hall or alternative venue that is meaningful to you.

Amanda-Louise will be by your side giving you that reassuring presence ensuring everything is going to plan smoothly, and we leave when you are ready for us to go. We can also provide attendance cards so you know who has attended the funeral ceremony service.

After the funeral

We remain connected should you need us. If we collected donations, we will provide you with audit trail so you know they have been forwarded to the relevant people, organisation or charity. We'll collect ashes if that's helpful & deliver them to you. We can arrange for you to scatter them or preserve them if you wish.

We will have spoken to you about the arrangements of the funeral flowers and carried out those wishes. And if required, we can organise graves and headstones to be put in place at a suitable time after a burial or ashes placed.

And we welcome you to stay in touch. Often our clients pop in to talk about how life is treating them, or to attend one of our coffee afternoons as life can be isolating at times following the loss of a loved one. Our kettle is always on, likely biscuits too. Rest assured, we will never stop caring - here for you whenever you need us, wherever you are.

Do you need more help?

Call us 07879 220 046
Email Us

Products & Services

View all
Call us 07879 220 046
Coffins & Caskets
Coffins & Caskets
Learn More
Flowers
Flowers
Learn More
Vehicles & Hearses
Vehicles & Hearses
Learn More
Funeral Ceremony Leaders & Bearers
Leaders & Bearers
Learn More

"We all felt totally safe opening our hearts to Amanda-Louise and were so impressed in the skills and empathy she has to understand how we all felt."

Read our testimonials
funeral directors somerset

Bereavement Support

Our frequently asked questions to guide you

See all our FAQs
No items found.
"I cannot recommend Amanda Louise enough. I knew we would be in good hands as soon as we met. Utterly professional and diligent, Amanda Louise goes above and beyond at every step. She is calm and amenable with a can do attitude; making sure that the family’s wishes were fulfilled completely. But also, her empathetic and caring approach filled me with ease when I was away and my mother was dealing with the funeral arrangements on her own. Information was given in bite sized pieces so as not to over whelm and every aspect covered. And finally a nod to the surrounding team, a truly kind and professional group. Thank you Amanda Louise and co." Kerry

Kerry and Zarah Williams

Dear Amanda, our deepest appreciation and heartfelt thanks and gratitude go out to you for the lovely service you gave for our Mum/Sister and Nan Myra. Although a day of sorrow for all the family and friends, you helped the day pass with an air of smooth tranquillity and sincere friendship. thank you Amanda, Dawn and Carol

Dawn

"I’m not usually one for online reviews but am doing so now in the hope that it may help someone else at a difficult time. My mother passed away three weeks ago and I was asked by my family to take care of the funeral arrangements. This was a privilege but the responsibility was also not light. My mother wanted to be cremated so an internet search took me to Amanda-Louise Funeral Services. The website was not only full of valuable information but also stressed the uniqueness of each and every funeral. I met with Amanda -Louise and immediately her compassion, professionalism and openness came across. All of my questions were answered, options were given (but never any pressure) and throughout the process of planning my Mother’s funeral my family’s wishes were paramount. Amanda-Louise was just the person I needed, along with her wonderful team, the arrangements were made and executed exactly as my family had requested. The personal touch made a huge difference, when Amanda -Louise told me that she would look after my Mother with care and compassion, and she would be treated with absolute dignity and respect, I knew that this was the truth. On the day of the ceremony, Amanda-Louise and her colleague, Jill were perfect; true professionals but with a wonderful warmth. My family are so grateful and we would recommend Amanda-Louise Funeral Services without hesitation. I wouldn’t use anyone else." Harriet Gibbs from Bridgwater

Harriet Gibbs

"Using Amanda Louise for our father's funeral arrangements has been a seamless stressless procedure. Amanda Louise from the very first meeting when I popped into her establishment in Minehead was warm, welcoming and kind at a really difficult time in our lives. After a cup of tea and biscuits plans were made for our father to have a simple cremation but Amanda Louise reassured us that our father would be treated with the utmost respect and kindness from being collected from Minehead hospital where he passed away at 92 after a short illness to being taken to Taunton crematorium for his little service where his favourite music was played and a little bunch of roses from our garden were placed on his coffin all overseen personally by Amanda Louise and her kind assistant. I cannot praise this business enough where at all times we were gently guided throughout the difficult time of saying goodbye to our loved one. More tea and biscuits are on offer if we need a kind shoulder to lean on with the care and compassion that Amanda Louise and her team offer going into the future. Thank you so much Amanda Louise xxx"

Iris Larbey

'Amanda-Louise is a wonderful person, who helped us say good bye to our Dad in a personalised and positive way, for which we will be forever grateful.'

Anna Lienka

‘A friend recommended Amanda-Louise…at my mother’s funeral. Like most people in my position, I found the prospect of organising not only a funeral but my own mother’s funeral during Covid19 times. But Amanda-Louise was absolutely amazing. She was so caring, compassionate, understanding and most of all friendly. She listened intently to the type of funeral service we required (I didn’t know there were so many options), made notes, asked questions to get to know not only us but my mother too – consequently offered suggestions. The result was amazing if you could say a funeral was perfect – this was genuinely it. I can’t put into words how grateful I am to Amanda – Louise’s professional and compassionate approach to a very emotional event. Whatever the event if I could employ Amanda-Louise again I would have no hesitation whatsoever.’

Julie

Thank you Amanda for looking after my close friend and her partner’s funeral. You were so professional, caring and lovely from the moment we spoke on the phone to the day of the funeral. I knew they were in safe hands with you. Everything you did was what they wished for. We can not thank you enough. Sharon (Admin) Thomas Brothers Funeral Directors

Thomas Brothers Funeral Directors

Dear Amanda, just a note to say a huge thank you for all your support and the wonderful service you conducted in honour of my Mum. I cant think of anyone better to conduct the service and Im so proud to call you my trusted friend, along with knowing it was Mum's choice to have you here today - she knew what you had supported with me in the past, and knows you always give sound advice. Thank you once again for everything, love Sharon x

Sharon Hilleard

"To Amanda, we'd just like to thank you for everything you've done for us, its appreciated alot. You made sure we gave our Debs the best send off possible, and we will always be grateful for that. We couldn't have done it without you. All our love, Alex, Beth and Sadie xx"

Alex, Beth & Sadie

"You are slowly changing the attitude surrounding death with a breath of fresh air. The 'it won't happen' and historical stuffy approach to death and funerals is outdated and doesn't represent modern life. Allowing individuals to embrace our own and our families or loved ones mortality speaking openly about death and grieving provides reassurance and confidence in your ability to look after people in preparation for their funeral and final journey in life. Unfortunately death will happen to us all. This is about the only thing we can all guarantee. However for some his comes very unexpected and others a welcome relief following life changing or debilitating illnesses etc. Death and funeral arrangements shouldn't be feared, but the life of the deceased celebrated as either they wanted and planned for or in a way that reflected their personality when they were alive. Often funerals are more of what is expected / the norm, or part of a package and 'how it's always been done' rather than a true reflection of the person that has died. This is where you have really made a difference giving that choice and a warm human touch to grieving families without judgement or preconceptions. Taking time with grieving relatives explaining and advising on the processes. Accepting specific requests to ensure all wishes are embraced and where possible, enabled. I am proud of your achievements so far and equally proud to have been part of some of the services assisting you, Gill and the rest if your team as people make their final journey."

Stumpy Northerner

‘I wanted to say how lovely the service was. I loved what you said, and it was just right for Dad. You were so professional, considerate, and caring and both me and Mum felt looked after.’

Heather H

'Amanda-Louise is an amazing positive and kind lady who has gone above and beyond my expectations of a funeral director. Particularly as my husband chose a direct cremation (unattended) yet I was able to have a local, personalised cremation, with me making my own floral tribute along with other personalised touches, that I don't believe a large organisation (TV advertised) would be able to do for you . She gave me a lot of time, care and attention to detail, with practical and emotional support as well. I would highly recommend this caring respectful and professional funeral service.'

Carol Coutts

'Finding a funeral director is not something I’ve ever wanted to do because the death of a loved one becomes VERY real. I searched around my local area and all I could see were ‘traditional’ websites with not a lot on them. Owning a website myself, I know how important it is to give as much detail as possible..Amanda-Louise has absolutely done this. Her website is welcoming and full of information. My initial in-person meeting with her was fantastic! Amanda-Louise made me feel so comfortable and her office is very calming and not ‘traditional’ in any way which I think is a great credit to her and her business. From beginning to the sad end, (and beyond!) Amanda-Louise has been with myself and my family through the whole process and no question or suggestion is any trouble. She goes above and beyond for her clients and I’m so incredibly happy we chose her to arrange everything. I wouldn’t recommend anyone else and although I don’t want to think about another death in my family..Amanda-Louise will be my ‘go to’ for any I will need in the future ❤️'

Calley Owen

"Dear Amanda, I Write this email on behalf of Alex Dixon’s Family when you conducted the funeral of my late sister-in-law Debbie Dixon, Alex Wife and Beth & Sadie’s mum on 23Rd August. I’m Janet Alex’s Sister. As a Family as you can imagine we have been totally devastated with the loss of Debbie who has been in our Dixon family for approx 44 years and is indeed a sister rather than a sister-in-law. Alex comes from a large extremely close family, we travelled from Liverpool to be with our brother and nieces at this devastating time. I write this to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the service you organised Conducted for Debbie. It was outstanding considering the circumstance ! The way you walked thought Minehead town stopping so the Bar 21 staff could pay their respects at the place where Debbie passed away. The service, flowers, coffin was above and beyond what we expected, and I know with is due to the support and advice you have given to our brother. The service also had a very different feel to it due to the special request my brother Wanted I know you will remember this as I’m sure no other family has requested this , but you fully understood Alex’s need to have this in the service and supported him fully. I know it was because of Aunty pat (my other sister-in-law) who first contacted you, and we are very grateful for this. I know you have supported my brother and the girls from the start middle and end of the service and afterwards as well. You made everything seamless . So, from the bottom of my heart, we thank you Amanda and all your wonderful staff! Kind Regards, Jan Adams

Jan Adams

'Amanda had the difficult job of creating a beautiful ceremony that brought together many different parts of our lost loved one’s life. She rung up and spoke to each sibling to get stories and details needed for the ceremony. I never felt more at ease knowing she was here for the funeral. What she came up with was beautiful and she treated my dad with the utmost respect and honour. She made a bad day manageable, and it was simply beautiful.'

Mrs P Potts

'At a time when as a family we were in the depths of sorrow at our loss Amanda - Louise arrived. It was as if the weight of trying to make sure that my husband’s life was remembered and honoured was completely understood by Amanda and we all relaxed. Our memories were brought to life in the service and I found it such a comfort. We all felt totally safe opening our hearts to her and were so impressed in the skills she has and empathy she has to understand how we all felt.'

Claire W

'To Amanda-Louise and Team, thank you so much for looking after Alex, Beth and Sadie. It was an amazing funeral from start to finish. I have never enjoyed a day like that and its all down to you and your team. The words in our card express how we all feel. From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU, Love Pat and the Dixon Family ......Especially to thank you - these simple words of gratitude are on their way to you to thank you for your kindness and the help you've given, too. For sometimes its not easy when we're trying to express how someone has touched our lives and brought such happiness. I hope these words can manager to perfectly convey how the caring that you've shown has brightened up each day. But then, I guess there's only so far that words can go - because your time and thoughtfulness mean more than you could know"

Pat

What a wonder lady, Amanda-louise was excellent at creating just the right service for my dear fathers funeral. She is sensitive, adaptable and has a lovely sense of humour. You will not regret using her. Sue x”

Sue Babey

‘You have been so helpful during this whole process and I would recommend you and your services to everyone’

Lynn M

"I selected Amanda-Louise because I wanted someone that could provide a funeral service tailored to the requirements that my family had in mind. Experience has shown that Amanda-Louise has certain delivered everything that we asked for and has been extremely supportive at time that has been difficult for us. I would highly recommend Amanda-Louise." Adrian Naude

Adrian Naude

‘Amanda-Louise was from the outset very friendly, caring and thoughtful. Such a good service provided to us in our time of grief and the service was more than we than we could have expected. I feel like I have known her for years and that if I ever need to talk she will be there for me.’

Lesley W

'I’ve met Amanda on two occasions two years in a row now for both my grandparents funeral. I can say our family felt in such great hands and so looked after by Amanda. She listened to what we’d like as a family as well as taking the time to get to know our loved ones we were saying goodbye to! Our family is forever grateful for her services and are so thankful to her.'

Abi Wong

'Amanda gave us as a family, the service we wanted and that my dad would have been very happy with and arranging to have him brought back to Northern Ireland with us and accompanying him on his final journey . Nothing was too much trouble for Amanda and she is a very kind and understanding lady.'

Rachelle Coggins

"Good morning Amanda Louise, Thank you for all that you have done for our family , mum dying so quickly took us all by surprise. We were so grateful you were available on the day she died and were able to come and look after her on her next journey. I know you are all trained and it is your job but I felt you and your team had the real human touch and it all felt genuine . Putting us in touch with Michelle was a dream as I felt she would’ve connected with mum and the service was so her and warm and lovely , but also well planned and executed. I felt even in the worst moment that I was not going to be able to make it I felt assured that even if I had to watch it remotely it was ok . Without doubt I had put my trust in you all and I knew it would be ok . I did place mum’s coffin flowers on my dad's grave and gave some to a relative who is near dad in the grave yard.They were beautiful and dad would’ve loved them as he loved plants and nature. I have watched back the funeral , which I never thought I would do but it was lovely …….i am using that word a lot because it was. Thank you again for going above and beyond with us all at what could’ve been a lot more stressful time . Your compassion and patience and willingness to step in and take control was faultless. Please feel free to take some of this text to use in your reviews . Kind regards Naomi 💋"

Naomi Dawes

"Cannot fault service received . From first communication to final visit they were excellent. Not the cheapest but you get what you pay for - Gil Nurse"

Gil Nurse

Thank you for your pack with Dad's service details. It was presented brilliantly and was great to read over. Thank you again for your touch on things. Unfortunately, you are someone I hope not to see again in the near future, but if I do, I know the ceremony is in the best of hands’

Dean W

‘I cannot praise Amanda enough. Clearly professional in her role she brought direction and comfort in equal measure, and yes, some humour to a very special Celebration of Life. A separate session with the young children attending gave them a role in the proceedings and an understanding of the meaning of the meeting. I recommend her services for any celebration, happy or sad.’

Dudley P

"I used Amanda-Louise Funeral Services for the funeral of my husband, & I'm so pleased that I did. What an amazing lady she is. From the very first phone call right up until after the funeral, her care for me & my family was wonderful. So much love & compassion was shown to all of us. The service & everything connected to this, was of the highest standard. I highly recommend her services." Linda Baker (Small Cars, Big Hearts)

Linda Baker

'Amanda Louise helped with all the practical details of organising my father's funeral. She really listened to what we wanted and helped us design a service that was a personal reflection of his personality and his relationships. She mixes great organisational skills, getting things done behind the scenes, with practical and emotional support. Amanda-Louise ensured everything ran smoothly and was always available for questions and support and her role of celebrant on the day played a big part in making the service something to reflect on with pride and fondness.'

Amanda M

‘Beautiful service for my late husband John. Amanda did him proud, she took the service with feeling and respect. Thank you Amanda.’‍

Pippa B

I'm so glad we met you Amanda, we all talk about how smoothly it flowed. I think your right Dad would of been proud of us all. Thank you for your services, Ian :)

Ian Mitcham

Dear Amanda-Louise, I am writing this card to say a HUGE thank you for all your help and expertise, that I found so helpful while organising my son's funeral service. It was so comforting to have you by my side along that path, and it was wonderful having you conduct the service on the day. You were so calm and professional, and gave me the strength to get through it. I would not have the slightest hesitation in recommending you and your services. thank you! Warmest regards Sally

Sally Priddy

‘I just wanted to thank you for dad’s funeral. It was presented so beautifully and the personal letters to us all was a really thoughtful touch. I know Mum is grateful too, she thought you did a wonderful job celebrating Dad’s remarkable life. He truly was one of life’s funny and happy people. In addition, your support and gentle manner on the day of Dad’s funeral hasn’t gone unnoticed either. Thank you for introducing yourself to my son….and offering him some reassuring words as well as noticing the scarf he was wearing for his Grandad.’

Donna W

"Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat."

Name Surname

Position, Company name

"Dedicated to giving you the funeral you deserve & want"

View our pricing
View our services
A message from Amanda-Louise

"With my vision on providing wrap-around-care from start to finish. Our team are here to help you with every aspect of planning and organising your funeral needs from the preparation of the body to events and memorial services, I will be with you every step of the way"