Bury: Funeral directors 'always here' for LGBTQ+ people

Mark Robinson, business leader at Unsworth Funeral Directors, lost his husband Stephen, 32, in 2011 after he suffered with a brain tumour. 

After Stephen died, Mark says he was unaware of the variety of funerals available and how a funeral could be a true celebration of the life lived.

Mark now wants the local LGBTQ+ community to know the funeral options available to them.

He said: “Before working in the funeral sector, I was previously unaware of the range of funeral options available.

Mark Robinson, Business Leader at Unsworths Funeral Directors in Bury (Image: Mark Robinson)

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“When my first husband passed away in 2011, I thought coffins only came in variations of different wood. But you can decorate a coffin with photos or messages, and they can be any colour and design, including glitter and sparkles if that’s what someone wants.

“Funerals can be personalised to reflect the person who has passed away. Bright colours can be worn instead of black.

“Music and flowers can be tailored to suit the personality of the deceased.

"Just as you choose your funeral directors, you also choose the kind of funeral you want, and it can be as simple or as extravagant as you want it to be.

“For some members of the LGBTQ+ community, arranging a funeral may be a difficult experience, particularly for those who may no longer speak with their own or their loved one’s family. Others may be concerned that their chosen name and gender may not be recognised.

Mark's husband, Stephen, who passed away aged 32 following a brain tumour (Image: Dignity)

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“At Unsworth Funeral Directors, we want the LGBTQ+ community to know that we’re always here for you, and we will always respect your wishes."

Unsworth Funeral Directors is also a sponsor of the Walking Rainbow Parade at this year’s Bury Pride on Saturday, April 29.