Jude McNab

My name is Jude McNab and it is an honour to be a registered celebrant here in South Otago. 

It is such a privilege to be asked by a family in such sad circumstances to put together a special service for their loved one.  Each service is personalised and checked over by family members prior to the service to ensure that all details are absolutely correct.  I am happy to meet with families as often as they require and always only a phone call / email away to help them through such a sad time in ones life.  

I pride myself in having a soft, caring nature along with being professional in my role as a celebrant.

In the spirit of love we meet, in the spirit of love we depart.

Tania Bishop

My name is Tania Bishop. I was born and grew up in Milton - 3rd generation.  After attending Tokomairirio High School I went to Teachers College to get some life skills and experience under my belt. 30 years later I have held three incredible careers, teaching, owning and  running a Women’s Only Gym for 19 years and of course my current number one love, my privileged Celebrant role.

From a school leaver, I always wanted to serve families with their loved ones funeral, and to be able to do this in South Otago, I feel very honoured.

As a celebrant, my aim is to create a service that is always reflective of your loved one, so that means I will listen with an open attitude and with a deep, caring understanding, guiding each person involved through the funeral service you want. I offer totally personalised funerals, designed with sensitivity, warmth, professionalism and any other quality you want to reflect for your loved one.

Liz Lyall

Hello my name is Liz Lyall.  I have been living in the South Otago area for over 40 years.  Through my own life experiences, I have developed the empathy and compassion that I feel assists me in helping and assisting you in your sad time. 

Christine Eyles

My name is Christine Eyles and I have just recently completed my Celebrant training through the Celebrant School in Auckland. 

I have been involved in the South Otago community for the past 25 years, after my husband and I purchased a business in Balclutha in 1992.  I have worked mainly in the medical field in different reception/administration positions within our community over this time. 

A huge priority for me is the care that I can give to the people I meet, and I feel with my training I can now take that care to a new professional level when people are in need after losing a loved one. 

I look forward to working with you and the very professional team at Leishman Funeral Services. 

Marion Sellwood

Hello my name is Marion Sellwood and I have lived in the South Otago District all of my life. This is a new journey for me to become a funeral celebrant and I look forward to being part of the Leishman Funerals Team.  

I have always had an interest in becoming a celebrant.  For many years, I worked in a health setting, nursing patients who passed from effects of terminal conditions.  During this time, I developed a greater understanding as to the different needs and support required - not only those of the patient, also for those that loved them. 

I would see my role of celebrant, as a privilege and an honour, to work alongside families and friends during this sad time.  My passion would be to deliver a service that will respect and honour your loved one who have passed.  To share your loved ones journey through life, in a way that you feel they would enjoy, and feel valued.  Importantly, who they were in life, and the contribution and impact of that life on families, friends and their community.

Sharyn Payne

Hello my name is Sharyn Payne I am a youthful, friendly and professional Funeral Celebrant. 
I will meet with you,  family and friends to discuss what you would like out of the service and to reflect the life of your loved one.

Emma Jopson

Hello my name is Emma Jopson and I am a 4th generation South Otago lass, currently residing in Waihola with my husband and children. I have been a registered celebrant for six years and it is a privilege to serve the local community in their time of sadness and loss. 

I offer families kindness, empathy, professionalism and respectful care. I believe your loved ones farewell should be as unique as they are, and will work with you to create a service that celebrates and honors your loved one and their memory.

Emma

Robyn Johnston

It is an honor and a privilege to work with families of loved ones that have passed, crafting a beautiful farewell and offering support and kindness during their time of grief.

I am a Professional Singer. Whether it is a hymn or a song the evokes memories of their loved one, it is my absolute pleasure to offer this additional service.  (I offer this free of charge)

I pride myself on giving 100% to families during such a difficult time .