Pot Noodle-Loving Gran’s Unique Funeral Tribute
Sandra Burnell, a grandmother from Newport, had a special connection to Pot Noodles, her favourite snack. So much so that when she passed away, she requested her preferred flavour be placed in her coffin. Sandra, aged 72, was known for enjoying Pot Noodles every night at 9:00 pm while watching television.
Despite suffering from heart problems that limited her diet, Sandra’s fondness for Pot Noodles remained strong. Her daughter, Tracy Burnell, 53, who works as a supervisor at Tata Steel in Llanwern, shared insights into her mother’s unique affection for the snack.
"She just really loved them. I would have one now and again, because I was there every night. She liked to have Pot Noodle parties, she would have people around who would have a Pot Noodle with her."
Tracy also noted that Sandra would often provide other treats for guests during these gatherings, reflecting her enthusiasm for sharing the experience.
"She would get other goodies in for other people to eat as well. She did kind of get obsessed with them. With the service we did a few things around Pot Noodles. She had some put in her coffin and her order of service was all decorated with Pot Noodles."
Funeral Arrangements and Personal Touches
The funeral took place at Gwent Crematorium in Croesyceiliog. The night before the service, funeral director Kirsty Sailes purchased 72 beef and tomato flavour Pot Noodles to provide to the mourners. These were placed on pews for attendees to take home as a tribute to Sandra’s love of the snack.
Tracy described the thoughtful gesture by the funeral director and the response from guests.
"The guests were all saying they were going to eat theirs at nine o'clock,"
She added that her mother would have greatly appreciated the arrangement.
"Her mum, she said, would have 'loved it'."
In addition to the Pot Noodles, Sandra requested that her coffin be painted in her favourite colour, royal blue.
Funeral director Kirsty Sailes commented on the personalization of the service.
"I think it is great that people can do a bit more now and make things more personalised."
Tracy expressed how meaningful the funeral was in reflecting her mother’s personality and preferences.
