Every farewell is different.
We make yours yours.

From intimate gatherings to larger celebrations, every service we create is tailored to the person, the stories, and the people who loved them.

Shaped by You, Guided by Us

At Mary Eleanor, there is no such thing as a ‘standard’ funeral or memorial. We start with your stories, your priorities, and your pace. We help shape the day, from where and how it is held, to the words spoken, to the music, flowers, and keepsakes, so it truly reflects the life you are celebrating.

The Farewell That Fits

Location

Our space in Sorell, your home, a beach, a garden, a pub, a church, or anywhere that feels right. If there is a place with special meaning for you or your loved one, we can bring the service there.

Format

A traditional service, an informal gathering, or something completely unique. It could be intimate and simple, or big and triumphant, whatever best reflects the life being celebrated.

The Shape of the Gathering

From a short, quiet moment to a longer celebration, we help you set the pace that feels right. Whether it is a small circle of close friends or a full room of family, we create space for connection and remembrance in a way that suits you.

Personal Touches

Music you love, live performances, favourite readings or poems, displays of treasured items, themed gatherings, or personal dress codes. From sharing precious memories to showcasing a quirky collection, these touches make the day truly yours.

  • "I cannot recommend Sandra and staff highly enough for their kind and caring support. Their premises feel more like home than a business"

    Maree

  • “Sandra and Lynne are by far the most considerate lovable human beings I've met. Im glad to know the Tassie community has you to fall upon in times of need”

    Bryn

  • “I cannot thank Sandra enough for her compassion and extensive efforts to help us send off my beautiful mother. We are eternally grateful for her efforts and feel incredibly blessed to have met such a beautiful person with such a big heart.”

    Sean

  • "Mary Eleanor took care of everything, including helping us navigate the practicalities of hospitals, crematoriums and so on. Most of all, we appreciated the personal and empathetic approach they took towards everything, and all for a very very reasonable cost."

    Adam

  • "Sandra and her team are absolutely amazing . The time they spend learning about the departed with such care and concern is beautiful."

    Andrea

If you’re looking for something simple…

If you’re looking for a small, private goodbye, we offer One More Moment, a quiet time in our space for up to 15 people to be together before a cremation. It’s simple, meaningful, and handled with the same care as our larger services.

FAQs

  • We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all funerals. Some families prefer a full service with everyone gathered, others want something small and private, and some choose to hold a memorial later. We can create anything from a quiet moment with a few people in our space to a larger, more traditional service, or something completely unique.

  • A funeral service usually takes place with the coffin present. It can include readings, music, stories, rituals, and a chance for people to gather, reflect, and say goodbye together.

  • A memorial service is a gathering held after the cremation or burial. The coffin is not present, which means families can hold the service at a time, place, and style that feels right — in a garden, at a community hall, or somewhere special.

  • There is no right or wrong way. Sometimes families know exactly what they want, and sometimes they only discover it as we talk. Our role is to listen, offer suggestions, and help you create something that feels meaningful and manageable.

  • We support both. Some families want a minister or celebrant, while others prefer a gathering led by family or friends. We can help you find the right person or structure the service in a way that fits your beliefs.

  • Our pricing is transparent and flexible depending on the type of service you choose. We’re always happy to talk through options so you know exactly what’s included.

  • That is completely normal. Many families feel unsure about where to start. We’ll guide you step by step, so you only need to focus on what feels manageable in the moment.

Sandra Bamford

Founder & Holistic Funeral Director

When someone we love dies, there’s a lot to take in — and often, even more to decide. My hope is to make this time feel calmer, lighter, and more supported. There is no right or wrong way to say goodbye. What matters most is that it feels true to the person you’re honouring and to those who gather to remember them.

Sometimes the ideas come quickly. Other times, they unfold slowly as we talk and reflect together. However it happens, my team and I are here to listen, to guide, and to help shape a farewell that feels right for you.

It’s a privilege to do this work, and I’m grateful for the trust families place in us. However you imagine the day, we’ll help you create something personal, meaningful, and grounded in care.

Warmly,


Sandra
Founder, Mary Eleanor

Get in touch

We’re available to help 24 Hours a day

info@maryeleanor.com.au
0458 002 151

40 Main Road
Sorell, Tasmania 7172