Eamonn Holmes has decided not to be laid to rest alongside his wife, Ruth Langsford, upon their passing

 

Eamonn Holmes has disclosed that he and his wife, Ruth Langsford, have made arrangements for separate final resting places. Speaking on the Let’s Start Talking podcast with Coleen Nolan, Eamonn shared that he has chosen Belfast for his burial, while Loose Women presenter Ruth expressed a preference for her resting place to be in Surrey.

The cherished TV presenter explained that Ruth is unconcerned about not being interred alongside him. He relayed to Coleen, “We have a family plot in Belfast where my mum and dad rest, and there’s space for four more. Ruth would rather find a place of anonymity in Surrey. She has expressed a preference for cremation, whereas I have a different preference. She holds no particular religious beliefs and sentimentality doesn’t factor into her decision.”

Eamonn has made clear arrangements for his eventual funeral in his hometown of Belfast, where he spent his formative years. He articulated, “I have a distinct vision for how I’d like it to be. I’d prefer everyone to be dressed in sombre black, akin to a uniform.”

He expressed his frustration with casual attire, remarking, “At times, it can seem like a haphazard affair, with folks turning up in coats, T-shirts, and an array of colours. I can’t help but think, ‘For goodness sake, people used to dress respectfully for church.'”

Eamonn went on to detail his preferences, stating, “And, if it’s not too much to ask, I’d prefer nothing less than a bishop presiding over the proceedings, or perhaps even a cardinal, or a monsignor. I’d draw the line at a state funeral!”

He also conveyed his wish for a dignified ceremony on the podcast, saying, “I desire tears. I’d like incense wafting over my casket during the Requiem Mass in Belfast, in the very church where I received my baptism. It holds special significance as it was where my parents exchanged vows, it was our parish, and it’s where life unfolded for us.”

Eamonn also envisioned his brothers shouldering his casket, adding, “I have a preference for traditional church hymns, and I’d be honoured if Malachi Cush could lend his voice to the occasion.”

“I’d also like to arrange for a record or an Elvis impersonator to perform the final song, ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water.’ I believe it holds great significance for reflection. As long as the priest concludes the Mass and we proceed down the aisle, we can have it as the closing piece.”

Eamonn lightheartedly remarked to Coleen, “I want you there, Coleen. People might wonder if there was something more between us. Why is Coleen so visibly moved, more so than everyone else?”

The television presenter also shared the heartache he felt when he couldn’t attend his mother’s funeral due to illness. His mother, Josie, passed away last November, but Eamonn was unable to travel to Belfast for her funeral due to ongoing health issues. Instead, he spoke via video link.

He recounted the poignant experience, “You expect to be at your parents’ funerals. I had this back problem, had an operation, and then I fell down the stairs and broke my shoulder. Essentially, I had two legs that didn’t work and a shoulder that didn’t. I physically couldn’t get out of bed. I had carers who would dress me. It was heart-wrenching for me.”

Eamonn’s mother, who passed away at the age of 93, had discussed her funeral wishes with the family. Eamonn knew she wanted traditional Irish music, which provided a sense of relief for everyone.

He explained, “Mum had chosen her own readings, and the music was left to us, but we knew what type of music she liked. Just think of the pressure that takes off people.”

“People simply want to honour your wishes. Would he be content? Would she be content? Does this make them proud? When it [death] occurs, even if it’s anticipated, people are seldom prepared. Consider the favour you’re doing for everyone around you by simply making it more straightforward.”