Meaningful Goodbyes Without Religion

At Baue Funeral Homes, we believe that every life deserves to be honored with dignity, love, and meaning—no matter a person’s faith, background, or beliefs. While many families turn to religious traditions in times of loss, others find comfort in something different: a personalized, non-religious celebration that reflects the unique personality, values, and story of their loved one.

For those who consider themselves non-religious, spiritual-but-not-religious, or unaffiliated with a church, the idea of a traditional funeral may feel unfamiliar or even uncomfortable. At Baue, we’re here to meet you where you are, without expectation, and without judgment. Whether you're looking for something completely secular or something spiritual without being tied to any doctrine, we help you create a farewell that feels authentic, comforting, and true.

You're Not Alone

Today, more people than ever identify as non-religious or unaffiliated with a formal faith community. For some, that means they grew up in a church but no longer attend. Others may have never followed a religious tradition at all. Some people still feel a deep sense of meaning, connection, or spirituality, just not in a religious way.

At Baue Funeral Homes, we serve families across this broad spectrum. What they all share is a desire to honor someone they loved in a way that’s personal, heartfelt, and respectful of who that person was.

What Does a Non-Religious Funeral or Memorial Look Like?

There’s no one right way to say goodbye. That’s especially true for families who don’t want a religious service. Instead of following rituals or prayers tied to a specific faith, a non-religious service might include:

• Personal stories and memories
• Favorite music—from classic rock to classical
• Photos, videos, or creative displays
• Poetry or meaningful readings
• A symbolic gesture like planting a tree, lighting candles, or sharing a toast
• A trusted friend or professional celebrant to guide the service

Some families choose to call this a “celebration of life”, while others prefer the simplicity of a quiet gathering. Whether you want to laugh, cry, share memories, or just be together, our team helps create the kind of atmosphere that feels right for you.

Writing the Story of a Life

At the heart of every non-religious service is the life being remembered. Who was your loved one? What did they love, believe, care about? What made them laugh? What kind of legacy did they leave?

Our team helps you bring those answers to life. We can help craft a eulogy or tribute that’s heartfelt and honest, assist in selecting music or readings that reflect their personality, or design a memorial space that tells their story through photographs, favorite objects, or meaningful symbols.

This isn’t about following a script, it’s about creating something real and memorable.

Celebrants: An Alternative to Clergy

For families who don’t have a religious leader or church connection, we offer the option of working with a professional funeral celebrant. A celebrant is a trained individual who works with the family to design and lead a personalized, non-religious (or spiritual-but-neutral) service.

They take time to get to know the life being honored, meet with the family, and then help shape a ceremony that feels natural and true to the person. Celebrants can offer guidance and structure while leaving out religious elements if they’re not wanted.

You can also have a friend or family member lead the service or no formal speaker at all. The beauty of a non-religious service is that you choose what feels right.

Personalized Spaces and Memorials

 You can choose a traditional setting, a casual one, or even hold your gathering in an unconventional space. Indoor spaces with room for music, memory tables, and personalized displays

• Outdoor spaces for informal gatherings or quiet reflection
• Reception areas for coffee, food, and conversation
• Video and livestreaming for those who cannot attend in person
• Custom keepsakes, tribute videos

We’ve helped families design memorials that feel more like a backyard celebration, a family reunion, or even a quiet dinner with close friends. Whatever the tone—formal, relaxed, joyful, or reflective; we help make it happen.

No Pressure. Just Support.

Sometimes families feel unsure about what kind of service to plan, especially if the person who died didn’t talk about their wishes. Others worry about making it “good enough” or doing the “right thing.”

At Baue Funeral Homes, our approach is simple: we listen first. There’s no pressure to do things a certain way. We’re here to help you explore your options, understand, and then create something that fits your needs, your values, and your story.

We know that grief is deeply personal. The way you honor a loved one should be, too.

Serving All Beliefs and Backgrounds

Whether you're religious, spiritual, agnostic, atheist, or just not sure, we’re here for you. Our team is experienced in serving a wide range of traditions—and just as importantly, we’re deeply respectful of people who don’t follow any tradition at all.

You don’t need to explain or justify your beliefs. You don’t need to have a plan figured out. You just need someone you can trust to walk alongside you, offer guidance, and help you create something meaningful.

Because Every Life Matters

At Baue Funeral Homes, we believe that how we remember someone should reflect who they truly were. That belief extends to every family we serve, regardless of faith or background.

Whether you’re planning a non-religious funeral, a celebration of life, or simply want to explore your options, we’re here with open hearts and open minds. Together, we can create a farewell that feels honest, personal, and full of love.