Testimonials
Shared Experiences of Honoured Loved Ones with Sherryl Searle
Below is some feedback I have received about the services I have provided . You may find it helpful to read the comments before making a decision about contacting me.
End of life Doula service
“Sherryl worked with my sister, Christine at the end of her life to assist her to make meaning of her sudden change of circumstances. One of the ways Sherryl helped my sister was to facilitate the telling and writing of her life story. Sherryl showed great skill in helping Christine share her story and subsequently presented it to Christine in an engaging document. Seeing her life documented this way gave Christine great pleasure and something she could pass on to others. Sherryl also assisted my sister to identify what she wanted at her funeral – she drew great comfort from this process. Just as importantly for the family, it meant we had a clear indication of her wishes, which was a comfort to everyone.”
— Diane Ross
“Had we not had long discussions with Sherryl about Morag’s end of life wishes, I am not sure that I would have ever known she wanted her ashes scattered at a beautiful island off Scotland. I suspect she may have thought it was too much trouble. I am glad she spoke it out loud and I got the chance to reassure her that of course I would do that for her”
— Bill Gardiner
Life story service
“Sherryl helped Clemencia write her life story which will continue to be a treasured memory of her. Sherryl was understanding of the time pressures due to her illness and was very flexible and accommodating.
— Ms Davidson
“This experience has helped me to delve within myself and see more meaning in my life. I look forward to sharing it with my family and I have no doubt it will be enlightening.”
— Patricia
“I don’t want anyone to read this until I am gone but then I want my son to have it as it will show him how much I love him.”
— Jennifer
“ Writing my life story has helped bring my memories, thoughts and feelings into perspective instead of all jumbled emotions running though my head. The most important thing has been that I am able to leave a sort of insight of myself for my husband, children and family”
— Francine
Ceremonies to farewell
“Sherryl you have been the funeral celebrant at four funerals for my immediate family. You helped me assemble truly appropriate ceremonies for each family member and supported me in such a calm professional manner over very difficult times. I have fond memories of the last farewell for each, in no small part due to your exceptional input. Your professionalism and empathy were really appreciated.”
— Leigh Park
“Thank you for your support and assistance to the family for the service of baby Mikey. I must commend you for your professionalism in conducting the service at such short notice. It was a privilege to work with you and I would have no hesitation in using your services as funeral celebrant if you were based in Melbourne and would be pleased to recommend your services to any funeral service provider in Brisbane that may need a caring funeral celebrant for their families”
— Martin Masson, Tribute Funeral Services, Melbourne
“Thank you so much for helping us to navigate a suitable service which fulfilled my husband’s wishes as well as our children’s. Many people came up to me after the ceremony to say how dignified and honest it was. It captured the essence of Mark – with humour thrown in too, as it should be a celebration. Thank you for everything – your knowledge, sensitivity, strength, guidance and empathy. You provided a necessary service, for which you are absolutely qualified, with caring and respect. ”
— Jenneth Herringe
“ Sherryl conducted the funeral service for my beloved daughter, Kate, following her sudden and unexpected death in November 2019. Sherryl was professional, compassionate and respectful of the unique challenges in grieving the loss of a loved one by suicide. While sensitive to the issues involved, Sherryl acknowledged (in accordance with our wishes) the tragic circumstances of Kate’s death and facilitated involvement in the service from her family and close friends according to their needs. Kate’s funeral was big, given her age, her extended family, wide circle of friends and also given she was a mother of young children and a well respected health professional. Sherryl was calm and confident in managing all the issues involved. I am so thankful that we chose Sherryl to conduct Kate’s service and many people continue to acknowledge its profound beauty and meaning – a fitting tribute to a special and unique person.”
—Jan Rodwell