In memoriam

Instead of flowers at a funeral, relatives or friends often ask that a donation be made to the RAF Benevolent Fund.

Carol Taylor and David Mears

When Carol Taylor's brother-in-law died in 2008 she wanted to celebrate something that had been very dear to him - his experience of RAF life in the 50s, which he often talked about.

You can ask a funeral director to organise this on your behalf, or you can ask those in attendance to make their donations directly.

Let us know in advance so we can ensure that, when we have details, we write and thank donors for their generous act. We will also contact you, if you're the next of kin, to let you know who has asked to pay tribute through a donation.

You could also consider setting up an "In memoriam" web page, containing photographs and memories, where friends and relations can leave their own comments too. See In memoriam online for more information.

Sending a cheque donation

Please send cheques or postal orders payable to "RAFBF" to

Donations Secretary
RAF Benevolent Fund
12 Park Crescent
London
W1B 1PH

We are often asked for advice on an appropriate hymn, prayer or poem for use at a funeral service. See our recommendations below.

• The Airmens' Hymn

  Almighty Father of the sky / Be with our airmen when they fly...

• Psalm 46 (Sung to the Dambusters tune)

  God is our strength and refuge, our present help in trouble...

• A Prayer for the Royal Air Force

  Almighty God, who has promised that they who wait upon thee shall renew their strength and mount up with wings, as eagles...

• An Airman's Prayer

  Give them, O Lord, the wit to see / That there are better men than me / To do the petty round of work / That I, dear Lord, would gladly shirk...

• High Flight by John Gillespie Magee Junior

  Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth / And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings...