My name is Gary Orchard and I am an Independent Funeral Celebrant. I am a member of The Fellowship of Professional Celebrants. I am also a qualified counsellor specialising in bereavement, grief, attachment, and loss and hold an Advanced Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy. 

I live on the outskirts of Portsmouth where I have lived with my family for almost 33 years. After starting and establishing my career in HM Forces in particular the Royal Navy for 20 years, I then moved on to work with Hampshire Constabulary for a duration of 5 years. Most recently I have worked in the Funeral business for the last 12 years. 

During my time there, I developed myself into a compassionate, understanding and professional individual that can provide a unique and exceptional service to families within our communities. This led to me receiving prestigious awards for my passion and commitment to funeral services and their business, ultimately recognising my commitment to the families and individuals.

 

Working within funeral homes and the funeral environment it has given me a broad and in depth understanding of the inner workings of what happens after somebody has died. I strongly believe I have established such an understanding that can be transferred into a personal, thoughtful and meaningful service for you and your loved one. I can officiate for non-religious funerals and for those who would like an element of religion or spirituality included.