Buddhist funeral directors & services in South Shields
We don’t yet list a specialist Buddhist funeral director near South Shields, but most local funeral directors can arrange a Buddhist funeral. There are 3 Buddhist temples and centres within 20 miles. Buddhist funerals vary by tradition and culture, but most are simple, reflective ceremonies focused on impermanence and on helping the person who died towards a good rebirth.
Funeral directors near South Shields
We haven’t identified a specialist Buddhist funeral director close to South Shields yet. The funeral directors below can arrange Buddhist funerals — ask about their experience and facilities. Offer Buddhist funerals? Tell us.
Imeary Street, South Shields, NE33 4PP
Co-op Funeralcare Step-free
Johnson Family
0.4 milesCrossgate, South Shields, NE33 1RL
Peter Johnson Funerals
0.7 milesImeary Street, South Shields, NE33 4EJ
Chris Sample Funerals
0.8 miles53 Saville Street, North Shields, NE30 1NS
R Johnson Funeral Directors
0.9 milesHoward Street, North Shields, NE30 1AL
£1,868 attended funeral from their price list
E Turnbull & Son Ltd
1.0 mileAlbion Road, North Shields, NE29 0HE
Buddhist temples and centres near South Shields
A Buddhist temple or centre can often help with prayers, a faith leader.
- Dhammakaya Meditation Centre of Newcastle · 3.8 miles — Church Street, Hebburn, NE31 1DR · website
- Newcastle Buddhist Centre · 7.9 miles — 187 Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 6AA · website
- Aruna Ratanagiri · 19.7 miles — Harnhall Hall Cottages, 2, Belsay, NE20 0HF · website
Buddhist funerals: what to expect
| Burial or cremation | Cremation is most common; burial is acceptable |
|---|---|
| Who leads | A monk, nun or lay teacher from the family’s tradition — Theravada, Mahayana, Tibetan, Zen and others |
| Key practices | Chanting, meditation on impermanence and merit-making (giving) on behalf of the person who died |
| After death | Ceremonies at weekly intervals up to 49 days are common, especially in Chinese and Tibetan traditions |
Etiquette for guests
- What to wear: Simple, modest clothing. White is traditional in many East Asian communities; dark, plain clothes are also common. Remove shoes in a temple.
- What to say: Quiet words of sympathy. Many people simply bow slightly with hands together.
- Flowers: White flowers are usually appropriate; avoid red, which can signify celebration.
Practical steps in South Shields
- The doctor records the cause of death and the medical examiner reviews it.
- Register the death with South Tyneside register office within 5 days of the medical examiner’s office confirming the death can be registered. How to register.
- Contact a funeral director and your Buddhist temple or centre — they can help arrange the key rites (Chanting, reflection and merit-making (dana)).
- Book the crematorium — see local options.
Repatriating someone abroad for burial · Help paying for a funeral
Frequently asked questions
Where can I find a Buddhist temple or centre near South Shields?
The nearest Buddhist temples and centres to South Shields include Dhammakaya Meditation Centre of Newcastle (3.8 miles), Newcastle Buddhist Centre (7.9 miles), Aruna Ratanagiri (19.7 miles).
Do Buddhists get cremated or buried?
Cremation is most common, following the example of the Buddha, but burial is also acceptable.
What is the 49-day period?
Many Buddhist traditions believe rebirth happens within 49 days of death, so families hold prayers or ceremonies at seven-day intervals during this time.
Buddhist funeral services in nearby towns
- Wallsend4 mi
- Newcastle upon Tyne7 mi
- Whickham10 mi
- Scarborough64 mi
- York73 mi
- Pocklington78 mi
- Horsforth81 mi
- Leeds83 mi
- Morley87 mi
- Brighouse91 mi