Meet the Founders
Holly & Sian

Holly Lyon-Hawk

"Hello and a warm welcome to Gentle Endings.

Sian and I are deeply committed to providing families with a

beautiful and alternative space for a Celebration of Life funeral.

We offer unwavering support from the time before death

through to the end-of-life process and the funeral.

As an End of Life Practitioner for both people and pets, and

a multi-award-winning holistic funeral director, I bring a wealth of experience to this role.

I also wrote "A Gentle Goodbye with Cinnamon the Rabbit" to support pet owners during the difficult time of losing a pet.

I originally founded 'Holly's Funerals' before leaving this company in 2019 deciding to work independently.

I now have the immense privilege of collaborating with Sian, who shares my passion for supporting

families and enhancing the beauty and choices available for Celebration of Life funerals.

As a specialist in ceremonial care of the body, I frequently give talks and teach this ancient art to both professionals and the public.

My background includes veterinary nursing, working as a wildlife sculptor, and ultimately becoming a holistic funeral director.

I look forward to getting to know you and supporting you through this journey.

With love

Holly"

Sian Maplesden

Sian is a multi-award-winning natural burial ground manager with many

years experience of supporting bereaved families.

This is a calling for her and her wish in life is to be of service to families at,

what is for most, the hardest time in their lives as well as to help bring change

to the funeral industry and gift families the peace of mind of having holistic care

all the way through and give families choice and freedom to craft a Celebration of

Life funeral that truly fits their needs and will help to bring some comfort through

the grieving process.

Sian's dedication to this work and families is quite incredible.

Set in Egerton, Ashford, Kent
Funeral Directors & Barn Crematorium Venue