Last year, Mary Cope from Cheadle made the life-changing decision to leave midwifery and pursue her passion for funeralcare.
Now, six months into her role as a Funeral Arranger at Co-op Funeralcare Cheadle on High Street, Mary couldn’t be happier.
“I was training to be a midwife for two years, but due to a change in family circumstances, I stepped away. I worked in my friend’s café for a few months while deciding what to do next,” Mary explained.
Her interest in funeralcare began during her time in midwifery, when she worked closely with bereavement midwives and supported families through loss. “I became involved with bereavement charities and still volunteer with one today,” she said.
When Mary saw a Funeral Arranger role advertised at her local Co-op Funeralcare branch, she knew it was the right fit.
“As soon as I saw the role, I was drawn to it and knew I’d love it.
“I feel like I’ve found my place now,” said Mary.
Life at the branch is varied for Mary. Her daily responsibilities include supporting families, liaising with florists, crematoriums, and celebrants and supporting colleagues on the day of a funeral.
Mary is particularly passionate about bereavement support and has introduced awareness campaigns and a bereavement tree where people can leave a picture, message, or ornament in memory of someone who has died.
Mary said: “I wanted to raise awareness of bereavement support, especially baby loss, which is close to my heart. Thanks to Co-op’s Community Fund, I’ve sponsored the charity Aching Arms via their Christmas Bear Hug Campaign 2025, providing 40 comfort bears to bereaved families.”
Mary’s work has also sparked open and honest conversations about death at home.
“My children talk about death more now and are always asking me questions. My six-year-old is fascinated by what I do! I love this because it makes them less afraid of death and encourages healthy discussions, which I think is really important,” said Mary.
Although only 39 years old, Mary has already planned her own funeral, chosen music and requested her ashes be scattered in Blackpool. “Funeral planning is really important; it takes pressure off your loved ones and helps to ease financial burden,” said Mary.
Her top tip to anyone working in the funeralcare sector is: “Be kind to yourself. Make sure you take time to feel your emotions and do not be afraid to reach out for support when you need to.”
To find out more about Co-op Funeralcare Cheadle, visit Cheadle Funeralcare - Co-op.
