“It means the world to me when I watch Derby Cathedral fill up and see everyone turn up for our Christmas Memorial Service.”
Helen Wathall MBE, the managing director at Wathalls, says this annual event is the ‘highlight of her year’ and is her way of ‘giving back to the community.’
More than 500 people are expected to attend this year’s Christmas Memorial Service in December which is organised by Helen and her team at Wathalls – Derby’s longest-established independent funeral directors.
It takes place at Derby Cathedral on Thursday, December 11, from 6:30pm to 7:15pm.
Helen said: “I have been organising this event for a very long time, and it has become a meaningful tradition for many, many people.
“Christmas is a time of joy, but it can also be a time of deep reflection. Our Memorial Service brings people together to remember, to celebrate, and to find comfort in community. It is a beautiful way to keep the spirit of Christmas alive while honouring those we miss.”
Helen first organised the event at Derby Cathedral in 2008 and said she had no idea how many people would come.
Now families return every year to remember a family member, and they are also joined by people who have been more recently bereaved.
Helen said: “We invite people who have come to us at Wathalls and asked us to help them in their time of need. It is a very cherished event for so many and offers a time of togetherness before the festive season really gets underway.
“To be really honest, it is a lovely evening for me and my family too. We come together to remember members of our family who are on longer here – especially my wonderful dad.”
The annual service has become a cornerstone of Wathalls’ commitment to supporting the community through all stages of grief. The event offers a moment of reflection and togetherness during the festive season, acknowledging that Christmas can be a poignant time for those who have lost loved ones.
Far from being a sad or sombre occasion, the service is designed to be uplifting and heartwarming, celebrating the spirit of Christmas while honouring those who are no longer with us.
The unique evening will feature carols sung by the Derby Cathedral Choir, alongside readings, poems and opportunities for personal reflection.
Attendees can write a message in memory of someone special and these notes will be placed on the Wathalls’ Christmas tree inside the Cathedral. After the service, the messages will be displayed on the Christmas trees across Wathalls’ branches, including Alvaston and Allestree, allowing the messages to be shared with the wider community.
Guests will also be treated to sherry and mince pies, served by Helen and her dedicated team of staff.
This year, Wathalls will be collecting donations in support of Marie Curie, the chosen charity for 2025, which will help to fund vital care and support for those living with terminal illnesses.
For more information or to request an invitation, please contact Wathalls on Derby 01332 345268 or visit http://www.wathalls.co.uk.
