How do I choose the right funeral director?

It is essential that you choose a funeral director with whom you feel comfortable. Someone who will listen to you and your story, who will remove some of the burden of the many questions and decisions. Likewise, someone who will caringly guide you through the process of arranging a funeral that is personalised and unique, whether you are helping to organise the funeral of a loved one, or simply planning ahead for your own. Read our full guide on how to choose a funeral home .

How long after death is the funeral?

The average funeral is held between 13 to 16 days following the death, this timeframe takes into account all of the factors involved in organising a funeral, from obtaining official documentation through to scheduling time for officials and facilities. It is common practice for some religious funerals to take place within a certain timeframe, where this is requested we will do our utmost to help with your arrangements. We will work with you to ensure you have the funeral service suited to your needs and you should never feel under any pressure to rush through your arrangements.

What support can Ballard & Shortall provide?

We are here to provide you with any help and support you may need, from the preparations for the funeral, through to the event itself and the days and months that follow. We are happy to visit you in your own home to discuss arrangements, or if you prefer, we can talk in the comfort and privacy of one of our well-appointed reception rooms. Alternatively, we can talk over the phone or via a video call at a date and time that is convenient for you. For further details, please see Our Service page.

Our Team

We are here to offer a listening ear and lighten your load at a distressing time, just when you need it the most.

Everything we do is with care and compassion. We all take ownership of each step that leads to a successful funeral and a special day. Please contact us at any time to answer your questions and to help make both this difficult time and your funeral planning easier.

Clare Shortall-Emery

General Manager, Crawley

Nicki Kennedy

Funeral Home Manager, Crawley

Manjit Burji

Funeral Arranger and Administrator, Crawley

Debbie Pyrtek

Funeral Arranger and Administrator

Our Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right funeral director?

It is essential that you choose a funeral director with whom you feel comfortable. Someone who will listen to you and your story, who will remove some of the burden of the many questions and decisions. Likewise, someone who will caringly guide you through the process of arranging a funeral that is personalised and unique, whether you are helping to organise the funeral of a loved one, or simply planning ahead for your own.

Read our full guide on how to choose a funeral home.
How long after death is the funeral?

The average funeral is held between 13 to 16 days following the death, this timeframe takes into account all of the factors involved in organising a funeral, from obtaining official documentation through to scheduling time for officials and facilities.

It is common practice for some religious funerals to take place within a certain timeframe, where this is requested we will do our utmost to help with your arrangements.

We will work with you to ensure you have the funeral service suited to your needs and you should never feel under any pressure to rush through your arrangements.
What support can Ballard & Shortall provide?

We are here to provide you with any help and support you may need, from the preparations for the funeral, through to the event itself and the days and months that follow. We are happy to visit you in your own home to discuss arrangements, or if you prefer, we can talk in the comfort and privacy of one of our well-appointed reception rooms. Alternatively, we can talk over the phone or via a video call at a date and time that is convenient for you.

For further details, please see Our Service page.

Guides and Advice