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Caroline Deverill
Professional Funeral Celebrant
ABOUT
Before I trained to become a celebrant with The Celebrant Circle, I was a full time Musical Theatre performer - singing, acting and even the odd bit of dancing - in the West End in shows such as Mamma Mia and Billy Elliot, and in a variety of other shows around the UK, Europe and beyond.
I've always loved how the combination of music and dialogue take you on a journey - how storytelling can draw you in and keep you in a moment and make you feel a full rainbow of emotions.
Over time, as parenthood got into full swing, I wanted to find another career option that would allow me to still perform on occasion, but that would also allow more flexibility with family life.
I didn't think I'd find a second career path as rewarding as the first, but when attending the funeral of a family friend, I was so inspired by the celebrant who was leading the ceremony, it set the wheels in motion.
Becoming a celebrant felt like a natural step. Empathy, listening, creativity and connecting with people are all elements that cross so naturally from one role into the other and the privilege of telling the story of someone's life is even more special than I had imagined.
I've also always believed that the importance of being able to say goodbye in the way we need and that feels authentic to the person who has died cannot be underestimated.
When I'm not onstage or helping celebrate a life, I am a mum to my beautiful autistic son, who keeps me on my toes and grounded all at once - reminding me of what's important in life, and a wife to my very supportive, nature loving, playwright husband.
I can also often be found singing to myself (not always quietly) in the aisle of the supermarket, especially if it's cheesy pop or country music! I am borderline addicted to marmite (it's a genuine thing!) and a long walk in the countryside or woods where I may even hug a tree or two, is a favourite for blowing away the cobwebs.
I'm warm, approachable and I really do care about what I do, so if you think I could be the right celebrant to help you create a meaningful farewell ceremony, please do get in touch.
My Services
Offering personalised funeral and memorial services across Worthing and the surrounding West Sussex area, tailored with compassion and care
My Music
Listen to Caroline: Music for Reflection and Remembrance
Music is often an integral part of a ceremony. It can express so much when we cannot find the words ourselves. Especially at a time of grief.
As a professional singer, it's always such an honour to be asked to sing at someone's ceremony as live music can add an extra something special, memorable and personal to the moment.
So whatever the song, if you think that may be something you'd like to explore, please feel free to ask and find out more. The link below give you an idea of one of the classics.
TESTIMONIAL
My dear Caroline, once again I wanted to say how wonderfully the service for my Sister-in-Law, M, was conducted today.
When we were all sitting around at home, after the service, a lot of those that attended were praising your efforts and, to give you idea of how highly you were being praised, one of my Grandchildren said…..
“It was like listening to an audio book. I just closed my eyes and listened to the Celebrant’s words and it was like an artist was painting a picture, a picture in words of Auntie M, and, had I never met M before, I would have pictured her exactly as she was from the words being said. I was so moved.”
I think that says it all.
Thank you once again.
“If there ever comes a day when we can't be together, keep me in your heart, I'll stay there forever."
Winnie The Pooh
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