Supporting Muslim Funeral Traditions
In Line with Faith and Family Wishes

Rowland Brothers have supported families and those of the Islamic faith in Croydon, Bromley and South London for over 150 years.

Rowland Brothers have been serving families in Croydon and South London since 1873. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of supporting Muslim families through some of the most difficult moments imaginable – and we know that when a death occurs, time matters, and getting things right matters even more.

Muslim funerals follow a clear set of religious obligations. Our role is to help families meet those obligations, practically and respectfully, while taking as much of the logistical weight off their shoulders as we can.

Understanding Islamic Funeral Rites

Islamic funeral rites are rooted in respect for the deceased and the belief that the body should be returned to the earth as soon as possible.

In practice, that means families are often looking to arrange everything within 24 hours of a death.

The key elements of a Muslim funeral typically include:

  • Ghusl – the ritual washing of the body, carried out by family members or a trusted member of the community of the same gender as the deceased
  • The body is wrapped in a white shroud, known as the kafan
  • Salat al-Janazah – the Janazah prayer, performed by the community before burial
  • Burial in the ground, with the body positioned to face Mecca
  • No cremation – burial is required under Islamic law

We aim to approach each of these traditions with due consideration and care.

Muslim Funeral Frites

Understanding Islamic Funeral Rites

Islamic funeral rites are rooted in respect for the deceased and the belief that the body should be returned to the earth as soon as possible.

In practice, that means families are often looking to arrange everything within 24 hours of a death.

The key elements of a Muslim funeral typically include:

  • Ghusl – the ritual washing of the body, carried out by family members or a trusted member of the community of the same gender as the deceased
  • The body is wrapped in a white shroud, known as the kafan
  • Salat al-Janazah – the Janazah prayer, performed by the community before burial
  • Burial in the ground, with the body positioned to face Mecca
  • No cremation – burial is required under Islamic law

We aim to approach each of these traditions with due consideration and care.

Muslim Funeral Frites

Working with Your Mosque and Imam

Rowland Brothers coordinate directly with local mosques and imams from the very first call. In our experience, the most important thing a funeral director can do in these situations is listen, follow the family’s lead and make sure nothing gets in the way of the religious process.

Muslim Funeral Frites

Gender & Modesty

We also understand that Islamic tradition is clear on modesty and the separation of genders in the preparation of the body. Ghusl should be performed by someone of the same gender as the deceased – usually a family member or a person trusted by the community.

We can provide a private, appropriate space for this and will always discuss the arrangements with the family in advance so that nothing is assumed and nothing is left to chance.

If the family wants to involve a specific person in the washing and preparation, we’ll accommodate that.

How We Support Muslim Families in Croydon

Direct coordination with your mosque and imam from the start

Swift handling of all death certificates and legal paperwork

Private facilities for Ghusl arrangements

Securing a Muslim burial plot at a local cemetery

Guidance through all requirements without adding to the burden on the family

Repatriation services if your loved one is to be buried abroad

24-hour availability – because we know time is everything

We handle everything, and we coordinate directly with your imam to make things easier for families during a difficult time.

While our team reflects a range of backgrounds, we work closely with families, faith leaders and community representatives to ensure funeral services are carried out with cultural understanding and respect.

Contact Us

Islamic traditions mean that funerals tend to happen quickly and we’re experienced in moving fast when families need us to – without cutting corners on care and detail.

If you’ve just lost a loved one and need help straight away, call us on 0800 0789 636 – we’re here 24 hours a day.

    Our Funeral Services

    Traditional Funeral Services

    Simple Funeral Services

    Eco-Friendly Funeral Services

    Direct Cremation Services