About Us
Our Beliefs & Values
Down to Earth Funerals is an independently-owned funeral home set in the peaceful township of Old Reynella.
Deb Griffiths, the founder of Down to Earth Funerals, had a calling to offer Adelaide a genuine, heart-felt alternative to death-care and funerals that she felt was not being offered. Her calling was strong enough, that as a single mum to two children, she sold her house to pursue this vision. Deb’s path into the world of death came initially from studying yoga, and much later when her father died and she arranged his fantastic celebration of life. Then after working in the industry for a number of years, she took the leap of faith to offer this service to all Adelaideans.
As much as is humanly possible Down to Earth Funerals deathcare is eco-friendly with a return to transparent, gentle after-death care. We do not use harsh chemicals, perform invasive procedures, or embalm (except for repatriation to another country when it is a legal requirement). We include loved ones in after-death care decisions, such as offering families the opportunity to wash or dress their loved one if they choose, or give families the opportunity to keep their loved ones at home for upto a few days after death using a specialised cooling bed.
We believe each life should be celebrated in a way that represents the individual, and endeavour to facilitate that in the best way possible. We are inclusive of all beliefs and traditions and can assist and guide families at any point during the death or dying process.
The funeral home, an historic cottage in Old Reynalla, with both a chapel and outdoor ceremony space, was previously used as a healing centre, and we have aspired to retain a healing and welcoming environment to all those who use our service.
We can connect you with grief counsellors, death doulas, end-of-life consultants, etc so that your journey with death (either your own or that of your loved one) is completely supported.
Helping you celebrate life.
All of our end-of-life celebrations or funeral services are conducted by experienced celebrants who believe that funerals are both sacred and healing.
We truly believe in celebrating the life of those who have shared part of our earthly journey with us. We understand that losing someone in this physical world is often the hardest thing we, as humans, can face, but in truly celebrating someone’s existence, we can begin the healing process.
We craft ceremonies that fit your loved one; from where the ceremony is held (in nature, a golf club, at home, etc) to the special little touches such as serving your loved one’s favourite food or drink.