August 20, 2025
We step into a space rarely spoken about but one filled with profound care, reverence and love. Jacqui, a mortician and co-owner of Natural Grace Holistic Funerals, opens her heart and shares her journey, offering insight into holistic after-death care and the sacred role of those who care for our loved ones once they have passed.
For many, the idea of a mortician might bring images of a cold, clinical role. But Jacqui’s story tells a different tale one of warmth, compassion and a calling to ensure every person is treated with dignity and tenderness at the end of life.
Jacqui’s calling began early, even though the funeral industry was once seen as a male dominated space. Her determination, combined with a deep respect for death and dying, led her to where she is today, caring for families and their deceased loved ones with grace.
Despite the barriers, including being told it was a “pipe dream” because she was a woman and a mother, Jacqui persisted. Today, she is a vital presence at Natural Grace, offering her skills, heart, and gentleness to every family who walks through the door.
Holistic mortuary care means caring for the whole person, even in death. Jacqui refers to the deceased as her “guests” and she lovingly prepares them for their final journey. This includes washing, dressing, shaving and even gently applying makeup if requested.
Jacqui never rushes this process. Families are invited to participate as much or as little as they like. They may help wash, dress or brush their loved one’s hair. Jacqui supports them with gentle guidance, always respecting their emotional pace.
“I’m not here to take over. I’m here to facilitate,” she says. “This is your person. This is your relationship. I’m just here to hold you while you hold them.”
The sanctuaries at Natural Grace are calm, welcoming spaces where families can take their time. For some, that means sitting nearby while Jacqui prepares their loved one. For others, it means returning each day to spend quiet moments with them, perhaps sharing a cup of tea at the same time each day, just as they used to in life.
These moments of connection help families grieve without regret. By actively participating in after-death care, they often experience a deeper peace and healing.
One of the most profound parts of Jacqui’s work involves supporting children. Rather than shielding them, she encourages families to speak openly and honestly, in age appropriate ways.
Children, she says, are often the “rockstars” of vigils. They’re naturally curious and emotionally honest. With gentle explanations, “Grandpa’s hands are cold now because he’s not working in the garden anymore”, children are able to step into the space, offer drawings, sing songs and say goodbye in their own way.
Jacqui speaks openly about the spiritual energy she sometimes feels when caring for her guests. Some rooms feel filled with peace. Others, especially sudden deaths, carry a different, more disoriented energy.
Regardless of belief, Jacqui always speaks to her guests. She honors them, communicates what she’s doing and holds space for their journey. “If they ever talk back,” she jokes, “I’m taking them home.”
Jacqui’s message is clear: we don’t have to follow a rigid or impersonal model of death care. Families have choices. They can keep their person at home and they can be involved. They can grieve in ways that feel right for them.
“We’re not trying to reinvent the wheel,” she says. “We’re just bringing back practices that existed for generations, where the community showed up, where loved ones helped prepare the body, where people were surrounded by food, stories and care.”
For those feeling drawn to mortuary care or funeral work, Jacqui recommends beginning with compassion. Many in the field have backgrounds in nursing or hospitality. Volunteering, applying for assistant roles and simply being willing to learn are all ways to begin.
But it’s not a role to take lightly. The work requires emotional, spiritual and physical strength. It also offers incredible rewards.
“Every day I feel grateful to do this work. I never feel like I’m going to work, I just walk into another room in my house.”
Holistic mortuary care is about giving people space, time, and tenderness in their final moments. It’s about restoring dignity, offering choice, and supporting families to grieve without regret.
Jacqui’s story reminds us that death can be met with the same love, gentleness and care we offer in life.
For more information about holistic funeral care, visit: www.naturalgrace.com.au
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