FT Issue 3 2026 web

The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland

2026 Vol.26 No.3

formerlyy WHITE GOLD GOLD formerl Funeralccareare PRINTINGCullen Funeral www.whitegold-printing.com www.whitegold-printing.com

Aluminium gravemarkers

+353858142906 +353858142906

NewMemorial Memorial New Websiteorbelofy.com orbelofy.com Website

NON-RELIGIOUS FUNERAL AND MEMORIAL CEREMONIES

Humanist funerals and memorials are non-religious ceremonies which focus memorials are led, non-religious ceremoniesthey which focus on Humanist the personfunerals who hasand died, the life they and the relationships forged. on the person who has died, the life they led, and the relationships they forged.

They are based on the humanist perspective that every life is valuable and unique.

They are based on the humanist perspective that every life is valuable and unique.

A humanist funeral or memorial is the perfect option for families and friends who A humanist orcommemoration memorial is the perfect for families friends who want a sincere,funeral personal of theiroption loved one, withoutand religion. want a sincere, personal commemoration of their loved one, without religion.

Each funeral and memorial ceremony is tailored to the person who has died, and Each funeral and memorial ceremony is tailored to the person who has died, and ĕĉĆ ĘĊĔĉĆĔ Đć ĕĉĆ đĆĐđčĆ ĘĉĐ čĐėĆ ĕĉĆĎ Ċď ĕĉĆ ĎĐĔĕ ĥĕĕĊďĈ ĘĂĚ đĐĔĔĊăčĆ ûĉĂĕ ĕĉĆ ĘĊĔĉĆĔ Đć ĕĉĆ đĆĐđčĆ ĘĉĐ čĐėĆ ĕĉĆĎ Ċď ĕĉĆ ĎĐĔĕ ĥĕĕĊďĈ ĘĂĚ đĐĔĔĊăčĆ ûĉĂĕ maĚ ăĆ Ăď ĖđăĆat cĆčĆăration of life or a ceremony with a more traditional tone. maĚ ăĆ Ăď ĖđăĆat cĆčĆăration of life or a ceremony with a more traditional tone.

Humanist funerals are inclusive and welcoming tĐ đĆĐđčĆ Đć Ăčč ăĂĄkgrounds Humanist funerals are inclusive and welcoming tĐ đĆĐđčĆ Đć Ăčč ăĂĄkgrounds Ăďą ćĂĊĕĉĔ ûĉĆĚ ĐćĕĆď ĊďĄčĖąĆ ĕĊĎĆ ćĐē ēĆĦĆĄĕĊĐď Đď ĕĉĆ đĆēĔĐď ĘĉĐ ĉĂĔ ąĊĆą Ăďą ćĂĊĕĉĔ ûĉĆĚ ĐćĕĆď ĊďĄčĖąĆ ĕĊĎĆ ćĐē ēĆĦĆĄĕĊĐď Đď ĕĉĆ đĆēĔĐď ĘĉĐ ĉĂĔ ąĊĆą when those with rĆčĊĈĊĐĖĔ ăĆčĊĆćĔ ĄĂď Ĕay a silent prayer, if they wish. when those with rĆčĊĈĊĐĖĔ ăĆčĊĆćĔ ĄĂď Ĕay a silent prayer, if they wish.

Humanist funerals and memorial ceremonies are conducted by our trained funerals and memorial ceremonies are conducted by our trained andHumanist accredited celebrants. and accredited celebrants.

FIND YOUR LOCAL CELEBRANT

Sarah Clements Terri Gilleece Richard Lavery FIND YOUR LOCAL CELEBRANT 07583 096952 07801 418492 07802 839543

Emma Crawford Emma Crawford 07976 124056 07976 124056 Ian Deboys 440040 Ian07368 Deboys 07368 Terri440040 Gilleece 07801418492 Geraldine Gallagher 07784 366681

Trevor Molloy Stewart Holden Richard Lavery Steward Holden Michael McAlinden Jill Robson 07549 946622 07802 839543 07971 634098 07966 791717 07971 634098 07305 892201 Michael McAlinden Emily Hope Kelly O'Dowd Lewis 07530 000300 MaryLou 07305McShane 892201 Declan Walsh Hope Kelly 07955 200555 07962 906236 07859 816585 07530 000300 Janni Knox MaryLou McShane Declan Walsh 07890 861690 07962 906236 07859 816585 Janni Knox Trevor Molloy 07549 946622 07890 861690

humanists.uk/ceremonies Humanists Waterhouse 138-142 Holborn, London EC1N 2ST HumanistsUK, UK,3 39 Moreland Square, Street, London EC1V 8BB Registered Charity No. 285987

Emily O’Dowd Lewis 07955 200555

The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland

The great and the good in Listowel 10

Celebrating 100 years of service 32

Heffernan’s host care event 50

Contents

Orbelofy.com offers memorial pages for your families ...................................... 6 Graham Gleasure welcomes the great and the good to Listowel................... 10 Pope Leo XIV in an Irish pub............................................................................................... 14 The conversation before the ceremony with Maria Connaughton................. 18 Claude marks 21 years of outstanding service........................................................... 20 IAFD News................................................................................................................................... 21 Funeral arranger turns marathon runner....................................................................... 27 Charities share community funding.............................................................................. 29 Douglas Funeral Directors celebrate 100 years of service.................................. 32 BIE News....................................................................................................................................... 36 John-Mark looking ahead to IAFD Presidency.......................................................... 40 The chemist corner by Autumn Cooper...................................................................... 46 Heffernan’s host ‘In the company of care’ event..................................................... 50 Drew Callingham on Cashflow without conflict...................................................... 52 PEAI News.................................................................................................................................... 56 Portglenone firm refurbish premises............................................................................... 59 The gift of presence by Ian Fee....................................................................................... 60 Prestigious qualification for crematorium staff........................................................ 63 Gillian Cummings on a life in five stories..................................................................... 66 Mattie Lennon’s casserole situation............................................................................ 68 Ritual to relevance: The role of clergy by Jennifer Muldowney ..................... 70 What nobody tells you about working in the funeral profession................... 74 SAIF News................................................................................................................................... 78 Classifieds .................................................................................................................................. 86

EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING CONTACTS: Graham Brown, Ruth McQuillan, Vikki Crangle, Paula Hanna Tel: (028) 3835 5060 (048) from ROI

Funeral Times is owned and published by: InHouse Publications, 1 Annagh Drive, Craigavon, Co. Armagh BT63 5WF E: sales@funeraltimes.com

Disclaimer: Readers are urged to support the magazine’s advertisers, but the publishers cannot be held responsible for any claims made or implied in the advertisements. The publishers reserve the right to refuse advertising. Opinions expressed in this magazine by contributing writers and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contributed for inclusion in this magazine but no legal responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for loss arising from the use of published articles. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior consent. Articles and photographs for inclusion are welcomed but the publishers cannot accept responsibility for their loss or damage however caused.

FuneralTimes | 3

LUCAN/NEWLANDS ROAD, LUCAN VILLAGE, CO. DUBLIN.

DUBLIN’S NEWEST CEMETERY Within Esker Lawn Cemetery we have numerous options from which to choose: from traditional burial plots; ash burial or interment plots; to columbarium walls, all of which can be purchased in advance of need.

Great attention to detail has been paid by our craftsmen to create an environment in which family members can visit IVL ZMÆMK\ _PQTM MVRWaQVO \PM \ZIVY]QTQ\a W‫ٺ‬MZML Ja \PM UIVQK]ZML VI\]ZIT []ZZW]VLQVO[ -[SMZ 4I_V +MUM\MZa W‫ٺ‬MZ[ I JM[XWSM [MZ^QKM I\ \QUM WN J]ZQIT 1V WZLMZ \W MV[]ZM OZQM^QVO NIUQTQM[ IZM UILM KWUNWZ\IJTM I\ \PM OZI^M[QLM _M XZW^QLM [MI\QVO NWZ QUUMLQI\M NIUQTa \WOM\PMZ _Q\P I KIVWXa IVL XTW\ LZM[[QVO _PQKP QVKT]LM[ \PM ZMUW^IT WN ^Q[QJTM [WQT NZWU \PM OZI^M[QLM

A LIMITED NUMBER OF BURIAL PLOTS AND ASH INTERMENT OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE TO PRE-PURCHASE IN ADVANCE OF NEED

www.EskerLawnCemetery.com

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT

VIEW THIS CODE WITH YOUR MOBILE PHONE CAMERA TO VIEW OUR WEBSITE

01 601 5052 or 083 165 8604 email: info@EskerLawnCemetery.com

White GoldPrinting Printing White Gold launch launch www.orbelofy.com www.orbelofy.com Here familiesororthe the funeral director upload a collection of photos that Hereon onorbelofy.com orbelofy.com families funeral director can can upload a collection of photos that captures achievements,interests interests and journey.

Together, capturesthe theperson’s person’s character, character, achievements, and lifelife journey.

Together, thesethese elements and personal personalmemorial memorial creating a page for loved to revisit. elementscreate createaa rich rich and creating a page for loved onesones to revisit.

P

articipating funeral homes Participating funeral homes will will havehave the the opportunity to upload their company opportunity to upload their company logo, andsubject subjecttototerms terms logo,free freeof of charge charge and andconditions. conditions.This This allows allows funeral and funeralhomes homes maintaintheir their professional professional identity while totomaintain identity while offeringan anadditional additional service offering servicetotofamilies families duringa adifficult difficult time. time. As during As expectations expectationsaround around memorialisationcontinue continue to funeral memorialisation toevolve, evolve,many many directors are seeking ways to provide added value. funeral directors are seeking ways to provide added One ofvalue. the platform’s most innovative features, is its integration with White Gold Printing’s memorial nameplates.

Each memorial can be viewed by One of the platform’s mostpage innovative searching on our memorial nameplate. features, is name its integration with White Gold Visitors simply follow the logo on Each our nameplates Printing’s memorial nameplates. memorial and can be taken to the memorial page.name on our page be viewed by searching memorial nameplate. Visitors simply follow the Thison technology transforms a simple memorial logo our nameplates and be taken to the memorial page. marker into a gateway to a much deeper story.

Rather than just seeing a persons name and date This technology transforms a simple memorial of death. marker into a gateway to a much deeper story.

Rather than just seeing a persons name and Relatives and friends are now able to see into the date of death. person’s life and gain a greater appreciation of the

individual being remembered.

For many families, this creates an entirely new dimension to memorialisation, permanent For many families, this creates ana entirely new and accessible record that can be revisited for dimension to memorialisation, a permanent and accessible that can be revisited years to come.record Supporting families near for and years come. Supporting families andacross far, astomodern families are oftennear spread far, as modern families are oftenand spread across different counties, countries continents. different counties, countries and continents.

A window into a life: the future of A window into afor life: the future of memorialisation funeral directors memorialisation for funeral directors www.Orbelofy.Com www.Orbelofy.Com Building family connections, Building family connections, genealogycontinues to growgenealogy in popularity, continues to grow in popularity, with manyinterest with manyfamilies showing increasing families showing increasing interest in their in their heritage and ancestry. To support this, heritage and ancestry. To support this, the the platform includes the ability to create a platform includes the ability to create a family treelinked linkedtoto deceased person’s family tree thethe deceased person’s profile. Family relationships can be recorded

and displayed in an accessible format, helping preserve important family connections that might otherwise be forgotten over time.

For future generations, this information can provide valuable insight into their family’s history and create a stronger sense of identity and belonging. Combined with photographs and personal biographies, the family tree becomes part of a living archive that documents not only one individual but also the wider family story.

The platform will not serve as a funeral notice and service information platform for funerals in Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland rather, it is specifically for memorialisation of the persons life.

By creating a central resource where funeral information can be accessed quickly and easily, families and communities can stay informed about arrangements while also gaining access to the more personal memorial content available through each tribute page.

Importantly, the focus of the platform remains on remembrance and legacy rather than social interaction. Its primary purpose is to preserve and present a person’s life story in a respectful and dignified manner.

A professional opportunity for funeral directors, the platform has been designed with funeral directors in mind.

Demonstrating our name-plate system in Coventry UK

Mercedes Fleet Solutions from Duffy Coachbodies

E-Class Hearse & Limousine

Find out more online at: www.duffycoachbodies.com

6SHFLÉFDWLRQV WR <RXU Individual Requirements

IE Landline: 00 353 42 933 4312 UK Landline: 00 44 20 3290 7335

Dom, Susan, John, Graham, Patrice, Christian, Paula, Colin & Mary

Graham Gleasure welcomes the great and the good to Listowel!

T

he Gleasure Funeral Homes in Tralee and Listowel are one of only two Irish funeral firms that are members of the American association, Selected Independent Funeral Homes. It is a prestigious organisation where one has to be invited to join, and Massey Brothers Funeral Directors in Dublin are the other Irish member. The European Group meet annually, and Graham Gleasure hosted the Summer Conference in The Listowel Arms Hotel the weekend of June 4th, 2026 Funeral professionals from America, Australia, Germany, The Netherlands, Denmark, Scotland, the United Kingdom and beyond attended to discuss innovation, technological advances, the possible psychological benefits of Irish bereavement methods, changes in death care both locally and internationally, as well as difficulties and challenges, with fellow business owners from around the world. The previous year’s conference had been held in Glasgow, and before that it had taken place in Copenhagen, Denmark. John Finlay of Fortitude Research presented interesting data gathered on the needs and emotional requirements of families after a death, which was particularly

10 | FuneralTimes

relevant to all members. Dr. Anne-Marie Bright of the University of Limerick discussed Irish funeral traditions and the well-known Irish wake.

It was the first time in many years that the President of SIFH in America, Barbara Rischer Welch, and the Chair of the Board in America, Christopher Waite, attended the European Conference. Because of the attraction of Ireland, the Pacific group travelled from Australia to hold their Summer meeting in Listowel as well. Almost 100 people attended the black-tie gala meal on Saturday.

Graham’s father Pat and he were proud to have been past Presidents of the Irish Association of Funeral Directors, and they were delighted that the current President, Fintan Cooney, joined them on Saturday. The Coroner for Kerry, Aisling Quilter, also attended, along with Nigel Lymn Rose of Nottingham, who had recently been awarded an MBE by King Charles III for his dedication and work in funeral service in Britain over a generation. Gus Nichols of Fanagans Funeral Directors in Dublin spoke about his term as President of FIAT/IFTA, the World’s Organisation of Funeral Operatives.

It proved to be a different weekend to most conferences, and the events management team at The Listowel Arms, led by Patrice O’Callaghan, relished the opportunity to meet various nationalities and hear their perspectives, which differed greatly from their usual events such as weddings, christenings, birthdays, and social gatherings.

Visitors got a taste of Kerry hospitality by the

offering of golf, boat tours of Tralee Bay and the mouth of the Shannon, visits to the famous Writer’s Museum and the Lartigue Monorail in Listowel, as well as some refreshing sea air and invigorating walks around Ballybunion Cliffs.

There was also the option for a swim, sauna, or seaweed bath to nourish the soul.

You can contact graham@gleasures.ie or on 086-258-1443 at any time.

Fintan Cooney (IAFD President), Seamas Griffin, Dublin, Gus Nichols (FIAT-IFTA Past President) & Graham Gleasure, Tralee

Kevin & Myriam O’Connor, Cork & Pat & Margaret Gleasure, Tralee

Martine, Menno, Dirk Sr., Lia, Lila & Dirk Jr. van Vuure from The Netherlands

Pat Gleasure & Moira & Peter Johnson (Hon. Sec. SIFH Europe)

Mark, Marian, Noreen, Karen, Christian, Gerry, Sean, Armelle & Tommy from Gleasures, Tralee & Listowel

FuneralTimes | 11

Nigel MBA & Penny Lymn Rose from the UK

Susan, Colin & Mary from Massey Brothers, Dublin

Dr. Anne-Marie Bright (University of Limerick) & Barbara Rischer Welch (President SIFH)

Paula & Dom Maguire from Anderson Maguire, Edinburgh

Morning Grave Products, Listillion, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal Tel: 074 9120449 Email: morningdonegal@gmail.com Web: www.morninggraveproducts.ie 12 | FuneralTimes

The Pope in the Irish pub I

was driving in the car with the radio on when it was announced that there was a new Pope elected in Rome.

The commentators were indicating that although the new man, Robert Prevost, was highly regarded in the Vatican, he was not one of the favourites for the job.

The Papal experts who were covering the story for the Irish media were giving a resume of his life to date.

The first surprise was that he was an American. There has never been an American born Pope in the history of the Papacy. He had only been appointed Cardinal by the former Pope in the last few years, so it was presumed that he would be someone that would serve in much the same vein as his predecessor.

He had spent many years as

a Missionary priest in Peru, living among the people in the remotest impoverished regions on Earth. The list was going on, but then someone said something that grabbed my attention. He was a former Head of the Augustinian Order. That struck me as we have a 700 year old Augustinian Abbey in Fethard .

I wondered to myself if any of the Augustinians that I knew, knew him.

Then I forgot about it for a few hours and got on with the serious work of collecting the kids from school. The radio reports were replaced

by Spotify and “Pink Pony Club” blasted out as we drove home in the early Summer sunshine. A few hours later, I was driving by myself again, so normal service resumed on the radio. And as soon as I turned

it on, a familiar voice came over the airwaves. Father Iggy O’Donovan, an Augustinian priest who had spent many years in Fethard, was being interviewed. It turned out that he knows the new Pope well, as he had studied with him in Rome many years ago. But he said that the new Pope had visited all of the Augustinian Houses in Ireland when he was the World General of the

Vincent Murphy, McCarthy’s Pub

Order, and that rang a bell with me.

Fr Gerry Horan was the Provost of the Augustinian Order in Ireland and he was based for many years in their Abbey in Fethard. I had many dealings with him over the years, not so much in my role of Publican, but regularly wearing my other hat as Restaurateur and Undertaker.

When I started working in the Undertaker’s as a teenager, most of the Funerals in the town took place in the Parish Church, but as the years went on, more and more people were requesting that their Funeral Masses would take place in the Augustinian Abbey Church, as that was the church that they attended. Funerals were not allowed in the Abbey by order of the Bishop, but over the last few decades, that has changed completely.

So I had many dealings with Fr Gerry as his flock migrated towards the Abbey (and he and his friends were partial to our roast Sunday lunch, often getting a take away dinner if the Limerick hurlers were on the television).

When they said on the Radio show that the New Pope had visited all of

L-R: Fr. John Meagher OSA pictured with the then ‘Head of the Augustinian Order Worldwide’ Robert Francis Prevost OSA (later to become Pope Leo XIV) and Fr Gerry Horan OSA the Augustinian Houses in Ireland, I remembered being introduced by Fr Gerry to his Boss in the bar when they came in for lunch one day. To which I replied that I thought that Fr Gerry was the Boss. He laughed and said that he was the head man in Ireland, but that his friend Robert was the big Boss. He was the Head of the Augustinian Order Worldwide.

I then remembered that I had welcomed him to Fethard and I was surprised that he was American and that he was so young to be head of an Order (He wasn’t yet fifty at the

time). To be sure that I had the right man, I rang Fr Gerry that day and asked him if the man that he introduced me to in the bar was the new Pope. He said that it was and that the Order were very proud that he became Pope. And that he had been in for lunch on a few other occasions as well. And when the word went around about us feeding the Pope, I was asked if he was coming back again. To which I have only one answer... “That would be an ecumenical matter”.

Vincent Murphy

McCarthy’s Undertakers, Fethard

McCarthy’s Pub/Restaurant

CPL FUNERAL SUPPLIES

William Tel: NI/ROI (028/048) 8167 1247 Mob: 0044 (0)7730 409000 McGuckin Tel: NI (028) 816 71247 / ROI: (048) 816 71247 www.cplsupplies.com

16 | FuneralTimes

sales@cplsupplies.com

CPL FUNERAL SUPPLIES SCALES FOR X LIFTER

FuneralTimes | 17

Maria Connaughton is a Dublin-based civil funeral celebrant, working Ireland-wide. She crafts meaningful, inclusive funeral ceremonies that honour the life and story of the person being remembered.

Working primarily in English, she also offers bilingual (Polish and Italian) and culturally sensitive ceremonies when needed. More at www.ritualistic.ie and on Instagram @ritualistic_celebrant

By Maria Connaughton

The Conversation Before the Ceremony What happens around the kitchen table before a funeral

T

he ceremony itself may last thirty minutes. The conversation beforehand often lasts an hour, sometimes an hour and a half.

For me, it usually begins with a phone call from a funeral director and ends around a kitchen table somewhere in Ireland.

Once I receive a call from a funeral director, my next step is usually to contact the family and arrange a time to meet. By that stage, people are often carrying a great deal of stress. They may never have organised a funeral before and are suddenly faced with decisions they never expected to make.

One of the most important things I can do during that first phone call is reassure them that they do not need to have everything figured out.

I usually suggest they begin thinking about a few simple things, perhaps some music that feels meaningful, whether there is anyone who might like to read or speak during the ceremony and any immediate wishes they may already have.

Beyond that, I ask them not to worry. The details, the stories, and the shape of the ceremony can come later.

18 | FuneralTimes

We then arrange a place to meet that feels comfortable for them. Sometimes it is their home. Sometimes it is a funeral home, a café or another location that suits their circumstances.

Every meeting is different.

There might be tea. Sometimes there are dogs or cats wandering through the room.

And very often, before we’ve even met, a family member will say: “I don’t really know what I’m going to say.”

Many people have never organised a funeral before.

Some have only ever attended traditional church funerals and are unaware of the choices available to them.

One of the most rewarding parts of these early conversations is helping families realise that there is no single way a civil funeral ceremony must look. While I usually suggest a structure that I know works well, every element can be adapted to reflect the person being remembered and the people who are grieving.

Families are often surprised to learn that they can include favourite music, readings, rituals, a eulogy, or none of these at all. Choosing a civil

ceremony does not mean excluding faith either. A prayer or blessing can sit comfortably alongside personal tributes.

For many people, simply discovering they have choices brings enormous relief.

And yet, almost every time, something remarkable happens once we sit down together.

Recently, I met a family who had travelled to Dublin from another county following the death of a wife and mother aged just forty-five. Originally from Poland, they wanted arriving family members who spoke little English to feel included and understood during the ceremony, so their funeral director helped them find a celebrant who could support both sides of the family.

We met in a hotel lobby before they returned home to continue preparations for the funeral. They arrived overwhelmed. They had never organised a funeral before and knew very little about the options available to them.

We spent over an hour together. Towards the end of our conversation, they admitted they had expected the meeting to be unbearably

sad. Instead, they found themselves laughing as they shared stories about a woman who had been colourful, funny, energetic and full of life.

What surprised them most was that nobody was judging them for laughing.

In that moment, they realised that remembering someone through smiles, funny stories and shared memories can be every bit as meaningful as remembering them through tears. Many families are surprised to discover that there is no right way to grieve during these conversations.

Some cry. Some laugh. Most do both.

Before we discuss music, readings, speakers or the practical details of the ceremony, we talk about the person.

What will you miss most?

What would the neighbours say about them? What made them laugh?

Sometimes the stories arrive immediately. Other times they emerge slowly, one memory leading to another.

A favourite armchair. A fish tank that took pride of place in the living room. A garden that was lovingly cared for. A favourite recipe. A joke told so many times that nobody can quite remember when it started.

Very often, family members discover things about each other’s memories too. A wife remembers one version of her husband. A daughter remembers another. A grandchild brings a completely different perspective.

Together, those memories begin to create a fuller picture

of the person whose life is being honoured.

Occasionally there is tension.

Family members may have different ideas about music, readings or how the ceremony should unfold. Part of my role is to make sure everyone feels heard and comfortable with the decisions being made. By the time the ceremony arrives, families are often reassured knowing there will be no surprises on the day.

One meeting in particular stays with me.

When I arrived at the family home, the gentleman who had died was resting peacefully in an open coffin in the living room. Around the table sat his wife, daughter and grandson.

His wife remembered a husband, his daughter a father and his grandson a grandfather he later helped care for.

The stories were different, yet together they created a picture that none of them could have painted alone.

Around us were photographs, belongings, and the small everyday objects that often tell us more about a person than any formal biography ever could.

Families often arrive believing they don’t have enough stories. The truth is that they usually have more than they realise. What they need is time, space and permission to remember. Once they begin,

the stories start flowing.

This is something we celebrants learn through our training with Entheos Ireland.

There is a strong emphasis on understanding grief, trauma and the many different ways people process loss. We are encouraged to meet families where they are rather than where we think they should be.

For funeral directors, this part of the process is often unseen.

They are usually the first point of contact for a family in crisis and provide calm, practical guidance at a time when people may be struggling to think clearly.

The meeting that follows is an opportunity to continue that support. It allows families to tell their story, ask questions, explore options and begin shaping a ceremony that genuinely reflects the person they have lost.

By the time I leave, we usually have the practical details we need, the music, the readers, the structure and the timing.

More importantly, we have something else. We have the beginnings of a story.

The funeral may only last thirty minutes.

But often, it is that hour spent together beforehand that helps make those thirty minutes truly meaningful.

Maria Connaughton Bilingual Funeral Celebrant

Funerals & Celebrations of Life Languages: English | Polish | Italian Supporting funeral directors and their teams in caring for families at end of life. Crafting meaningful, unique civil ceremonies (religious, non-religious and mixed) in English, with culturally sensitive bilingual support where needed.

E: maria@ritualistic.ie T: 089 9606151 Dublin-based, working Ireland-wide.

W: ritualistic.ie Member of Entheos Ireland

FuneralTimes | 19

Claude McKervey marks 21 years of outstanding service with Certificate of Excellence

C

laude McKervey Funeral Directors, recently received their Certificate of Excellence from the Irish Association of Funeral Directors (IAFD) having successfully passed an independent audit.

IAFD has over 280 members who conduct over 80% of funerals on the island of Ireland.

All IAFD members are required to operate their business in compliance with the IAFD Quality Standard and relevant employment and health and safety legislation.

The IAFD Quality Standard sets the standard processes, equipment and

facilities for IAFD members and is based on the European Standard for Funeral Services.

“We operate our business to the highest standards in order to deliver best-inclass funeral care to the families we look after, so we are delighted to receive the IAFD Certificate of Excellence as a recognition of this” said Claude Claude McKervey Funeral Directors has been providing funeral services from 2005 and their family provide a 24 hour service based at their funeral home in Ederney, Co. Fermangh.

Congratulations!

Funeral Times would like to say a huge congratulations to Patrick Quinn of Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousine and his wife on, the birth of their daughter, Croia Margaret Quinn. Croia was born on 16th April 2026, weighed 7lb 7oz and loves ABBA!

• Trade Embalming (straight & PM cases) • Mobile Service and Mortuary Facilities • Removals • Repatriation Embalming and Cadseal Services • Refrigerated storage facility now available

Simon 07563 828660 • Dereck 07834 091005

• email : sgmarshall@hotmail.co.uk • web: Dereckmarshallandsons.co.uk Stangmore Park, 4a Far circular Road, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone BT71 6LW 20 | FuneralTimes

Funeral professionals discuss changing funeral trends at Belfast event Funeral professionals from across Ireland gathered in Belfast in April for an important discussion on the changing funeral landscape and the continued rise of direct cremation.

T

he event featured a presentation by funeral industry consultant John Finlay of Fortitude Research and Marketing, who explored how funeral traditions and consumer expectations are evolving both in Ireland and internationally. Drawing on experiences from Ireland, the UK, North America and Australia, the session examined the factors influencing funeral choices and the growing importance of flexibility, communication and meaningful personalisation.

Discussions throughout the event focused on how funeral directors can continue to support families with compassion and professionalism while adapting to changing expectations around remembrance and

John Finlay

funeral services.

Attendees also explored the importance of maintaining strong community connections and ensuring families continue to receive guidance, care and support during bereavement.

Feedback from members was extremely positive, with many highlighting the practical insights and international perspectives shared throughout the session.

The IAFD would like to

extend sincere thanks to John Finlay and the team at Fortitude Research and Marketing for delivering such an insightful and thoughtprovoking presentation and for facilitating valuable discussion among members.

The event formed part of the Irish Association of Funeral Directors’ ongoing programme of regional engagement events and professional discussions across the country.

FuneralTimes | 21

IAFD President represents funeral profession at National Meetings and Events Over recent months, IAFD President Fintan Cooney has continued to represent the interests of funeral professionals through a range of national meetings, events and industry discussions.

This work has included engagement with the Department of Foreign Affairs regarding the repatriation of Irish citizens who die abroad, contributing to discussions on practical support for bereaved families and funeral directors managing international repatriation.

Fintan also contributed to the Independent Covid-19 Evaluation, ensuring the experiences and challenges faced by funeral directors during the pandemic form part of the wider national review and learning process.

In May, he attended the National Bereavement Forum, engaging with organisations and professionals working across bereavement support and end-of-life care, while also meeting with representatives from Nursing Homes Ireland to discuss areas of shared interest and opportunities for continued collaboration between both sectors.

Alongside these engagements, Fintan attended the final day of this year’s Funeral Directing Certificate 22 | FuneralTimes

Fintan with Deirdre Shanagher (Strategic Clinical Nurse Expert) and Tadhg Daly (CEO) Nursing Homes Ireland

Fintan with fellow IAFD Board member Noel Hughes and Jodi Weafer FDCA student

Fintan with James Hanrahan and Andrea Wyckham Moriarty from Dpt. Foreign Affairs

Fintan with Paula O’Reilly CEO Irish Hospice Foundation

Award (FDCA) programme at Glasnevin Cemetery and Crematorium, where students heard from guest speakers on professional practice, coronial services and continuing standards within funeral service.

These activities reflect the

ongoing work being carried out by the Irish Association of Funeral Directors to support members, strengthen professional standards and ensure the voice of the funeral profession continues to be represented in important national conversations.

Funeral Education Programme continues to support Professional Standards The latest Funeral Directing Certificate Award (FDCA) programme recently concluded at Glasnevin Cemetery and Crematorium, marking another successful year of professional education and training within the funeral sector.

T

he programme supports funeral professionals in developing practical knowledge, professional skills and a deeper understanding of bereavement care and funeral service standards.

The final day included a guided tour of Glasnevin Cemetery and Crematorium alongside presentations from guest speakers covering a range of topics relevant to modern funeral practice, including coronial services, professional standards and continuing development within the profession.

Interest in the upcoming 2026/2027 programme has already been strong, reflecting the continued commitment across the profession to education, training and maintaining high standards of care for bereaved families.

The Irish Association of Funeral Directors also extended its thanks to the team at Glasnevin Cemetery and Crematorium for their continued support of the programme and hospitality throughout the visit.

Students at Glasnevin FuneralTimes | 23

Fintan Cooney (President) Fanagans Funeral Directors 54 Aungier Street Dublin 2 Email: president@iafd.ie

Peter Maguire (Education Officer) Massey Bros Funerals Head office 109 The Coombe, Dublin 8, D08 AK10 Email: peter.maguire@iafd.ie

Fintan Kennedy (Chair) Email: fintan.kennedy@iafd.ie

Jane Clarke (Public Relations Officer) Lakeside Memorial Park, Portmarnock, Dublin Email: pro@iafd.ie

John Mark Griffin (1st Vice President) Griffin Funerals John’s Gate Pennywell Limerick Email: jm.griffin@iafd.ie Paul Reilly (Hon. Secretary) Oliver Reilly Ltd Funeral Directors Leinster Street, Maynooth Email: paul.reilly@iafd.ie Niamh Sweeney (Hon. Treasurer) John Sweeney and Sons Fairgreen Arklow, Co Wicklow Email: treasurer@iafd.ie

Donal Forde Fordes Funeral Homes Ltd South Gate Bridge Cork, Co. Cork Email: donal.forde@iafd.ie Noel Hughes Email: noel.hughes@iafd.ie Niall Mulligan Heffernan’s Funeral Directors Trim, Co. Meath Email: niall.mulligan@iafd.ie

Clare Ann Irwin (Membership Officer) Irwins Funeral Home Bothar Irwin, Galway City, Email: clareann.irwin@iafd.ie Telephone: 0818 935 000

24 | FuneralTimes

BRINGING LOVED ONES HOME WITH CARE Dedicated International Repatriation Services Supporting Funeral Directors Across Ireland.

International repatriation requires logistical precision, regulatory expertise and compassionate support.

Woodland Group manages all aspects of outbound international repatriation including:

Airline coordination Customs documentation IATA compliance Global transport logistics Providing funeral directors with reliable, dignified support every step of the way.

We rely on Lorraine at Woodland for our international repatriations. Their attention to detail and professionalism give our families confidence every time.

Johnathan Stafford’s Funeral Directors, Dublin

Contact us: Email: lorraine.mcentagart@woodlandgroup.com Direct Dial: +353 1 263 1533 Mobile: +353 87 720 3614 www.woodlandgroup.com FuneralTimes | 25

Season’s Greetings from Funeral Partners Shape your future, strengthen Celebrating Together This Christmas our communities

As the year draws to a close, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our incredible teams, suppliers and fellow funeral professionals for Support their dedication, careyour andskills, compassion.

To all families, grow and give back tothe new businesses Northern that have joined us this year, welcome to the Ireland’s communities.

Funeral Partners family. We are proud to support you and Choosing a career in funeral services is about more trust. than building your future, it’s about honoured by your

making a lasting impact. With structured training and clear pathways for development, you’ll everyone at Funeral Partners, we wish life’s you most joy meaningful gain the skillsFrom to grow professionally while helping others through moments. And through our community funds,and your awork contributes directly to local schools, for the festive season peacful NewYear. healthcare projects, and cultural initiatives across Northern Ireland.

Looking to join our growing team?

Explore career opportunities at funeralpartners.co.uk Find out how your career can strengthen communities.

Scan the some QR code learn about more.

Hear from of ourto partners their acquisition journey and becoming part of Funeral Partners.

funeralpartners.co.uk/story

Funeral Partners Ltd is committed to equality of opportunity for all colleagues and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

We welcome applications from members of all communities.

funeralpartners.co.uk/story

Funeral arranger turns marathon runner to support charity close to her heart A funeral arranger from Belfast’s James Brown & Sons Funeral Directors plans to take on another endurance challenge, after smashing her race target on two fronts in her first ever marathon in support of a children’s charity.

Victoria Watton completed the Belfast City Marathon in an impressive three hours and 54 minutes – more than 30 minutes faster than her original goal.

Taking on the gruelling 26.2mile course from Stormont Estate to Ormeau Park, Victoria has so far raised more than £730 for Children’s Heartbeat Trust – comfortably surpassing her £500 fundraising target. The charity supports children across Northern Ireland living with congenital or acquired heart disease.

Inspired by her own family’s experience after her brother was born with a heart condition, Victoria now has the London Marathon in her sights as she continues her fundraising efforts.

Victoria said: “Running a marathon was something I’d always wanted to challenge myself to do, but knowing I was doing it for Children’s Heartbeat Trust gave me even more motivation to keep going.

“The charity does such important work supporting children and families across

Funeral Arranger Victoria Watton pictured at the Belfast Marathon Northern Ireland, and every donation really does make a difference. Crossing the finish line in under four hours was an amazing feeling, and I’m so pleased to have exceeded both my time and fundraising targets. I’m also incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported me.”

She added: “The atmosphere on the day was unbelievable and having encouragement

from my colleagues, friends and family meant so much.

It was tough at times, but knowing I was fundraising for such a worthwhile cause kept me focused throughout.”

Colleagues from James Brown & Sons were among those cheering Victoria on throughout the race.

Beverley Brown, of James Brown & Sons, said: “Everyone at James Brown & Sons is incredibly proud of Victoria and what she has achieved.

Completing a first marathon in under four hours is a fantastic accomplishment in itself, but to do it while raising money for such an important charity makes it even more special.

“Her dedication, determination and hard work have been inspiring, and we were delighted to support her every step of the way.”

Children’s Heartbeat Trust provides practical, emotional and financial support to children and families affected by heart disease, while also advocating for improved healthcare services and raising awareness of childhood heart conditions. Every week in Northern Ireland, four babies are born with heart disease.

There is still time to support Victoria’s fundraising efforts via her donation page: https://eventmaster. ie/fundraising/pages/ VW63899784?utm FuneralTimes | 27

Portadown funeral directors unveil refurbished premises and welcome new team A long-established Portadown funeral director has unveiled a refurbished home and welcomed new team members as they continue to support local families.

J

oseph Poots & Son Funeral Directors, based on Bridge Street for 68 years, has completed a thoughtful refurbishment of its premises.

The updates create a more comfortable, modern environment while maintaining a warm and welcoming setting for families.

As part of the improvements, the funeral home now offers live streaming services, allowing those unable to attend in person to take part and pay their respects.

The business has also strengthened its team in recent months. Long-serving Senior Funeral Service

Operative Cyril McConnell, who has been with the firm for almost 20 years, is now joined by several new colleagues.

Trainee Funeral Director Josh Toland, who lives locally, joined the team last September. He began his training with James Brown & Sons in Belfast, who are also part of Funeral Partners Northern Ireland, and is committed to supporting families with care and compassion, as well as providing advice on advance funeral planning through the Choice Funeral Plan.

He was joined in February

by Funeral Service Operative

Joseph Poots & Son Funeral Directors staff, L-R: Trina Forsey, Josh Toland, Cyril McConnell and Megan Thornbury 28 | FuneralTimes

Megan Thornbury and Receptionist Trina Forsey.

Megan’s previous role in domiciliary care and Trina’s in dental nursing and care homes mean they both bring compassion and understanding to their roles.

Josh Toland said: “It’s a privilege to join a funeral director that has been a trusted name in the community since 1933. Joseph Poots & Son continues to serve families with the same care, dignity and tradition that were established by the late Joseph Poots and his son Samuel and have defined the business for generations.”

While the surroundings have been refreshed and new team members welcomed, the firm’s values remain unchanged – providing compassionate, professional support to families across Portadown and the surrounding areas.

For more information, visit the funeral home at 42–44 Bridge Street, Portadown, call 028 3835 2154 or visit the website at www. josephpootsfuneraldirectors. com You can also find Joseph Poots & Son Funeral Director on Facebook at https://www.facebook. com/p/Joseph-PootsSon-100079168620472/

Local charities share community funding from Carrickfergus and Larne funeral directors Two community projects making a positive impact on people’s quality of life in and around Carrickfergus and Larne have each received a financial boost thanks to the first round of Mulhollands Funeral Directors’ 2026 Community Assistance programme. The recipients are: Good Morning Larne – the award will fund a new, free community coffee and chat event with a guest speaker called ‘Good Morning Connections’, designed to create a safe and friendly space to reduce social isolation, boost confidence and improve wellbeing among seniors in Larne.

Woodlands Food Table – the award will enable the Carrickfergus Presbyterian Church to buy non-perishable goods such as tea, coffee, cereal, tinned foods, rice, pasta, toiletries and more to be used to make up bags of groceries that are available for local families in need every week.

Cheques were presented

by Peter Mulholland of Mulhollands Funeral Directors and Kerry Kennedy, Senior Funeral Arranger.

Peter Mulholland said: “We are delighted to be able to offer support to these caring projects in Carrickfergus and Larne. Both groups are making a real difference to people’s lives, providing much-needed, meaningful support to local people. I believe my late

L-R: Sarah O’Hagan - Good Morning Larne; Melanie and Wendy Boyd - Woodlands Food Table; Peter Mulholland and Kerry Kennedy from Mulhollands father Bob would be very proud to see us helping them with their work.”

Kerry Kennedy added: “Our Community Assistance Programme gives us the opportunity to highlight the positivity and support that’s happening right on our doorstep. We’re looking forward to seeing these projects continue and grow.”

The team at the Carrickfergus and Larne Funeral Directors launched their grants programme in February with the aim of providing financial support for community-based projects that benefit people who live within two miles of their funeral homes. Projects must be non-profit and align with one or more of the fund’s

categories; Health, Education, Employment Opportunities and Poverty or Social Deprivation.

The second cycle of their Community Fund grants, when a further £1,000 will be available for good causes, will open for applications on June 29.

For more information about the funding, visit: https://www. mulhollandsfuneraldirectors. com/community-assistanceprogramme/ For community news, you can also find Mulhollands Funeral Directors on Facebook at: https:// www.facebook.com/ MulhollandsFuneral Directors/ FuneralTimes | 29

East Belfast grief awareness project awarded £10,000 Community Impact Grant East Belfast Community Development Agency board members Karen Purdy and Bernie McConnell together with staff receiving the £10,000 James Brown & Sons Community Impact Grant from Beverley Brown and James Brown of James Brown & Sons

A

community project supporting people affected by grief and bereavement in East Belfast has been awarded the first £10,000 Community Impact Grant from James Brown & Sons Funeral Directors.

East Belfast Community Development Agency (EBCDA) received the funding for its ‘East Belfast – Let’s Support Grief Awareness’ project, which aims to provide practical and emotional support for local people navigating loss and bereavement.

The award was presented at a special presentation event hosted by James Brown & Sons at East Belfast Network Centre.

The project will deliver a programme of grief awareness workshops, bi-monthly support cafés, creative remembrance activities and oneto-one counselling support across East Belfast over the next 12 months.

EBCDA developed the initiative following strong community demand for more accessible grief support services. Pilot workshops held during Grief Awareness Week were oversubscribed and highlighted the need for safe, community-based spaces where people could share experiences, receive support and feel less isolated.

The £10,000 Community Impact Grant was launched earlier this year as part of the wider James Brown & Sons Community Fund, which supports grassroots charities and community organisations across Belfast and surrounding areas.

Marie Anne Templeman, Health Development Director at EBCDA, said: “We are absolutely

30 30 || FuneralTimes FuneralTimes

delighted to receive this support from James Brown & Sons. Through our work with local people, we hear first-hand how important it is to have spaces where people can come together, share their experiences and feel understood.

“This funding will allow us to expand our grief support work, offering workshops, peer support and access to counselling for those who need it. It will make a real difference to people across East Belfast, helping them feel less alone and better supported.”

Beverley Brown, of James Brown & Sons, said: “Supporting initiatives like this is incredibly important to us. We see every day the impact that loss can have on individuals and families, so to be able to support a project that offers understanding, connection and a safe space for people in East Belfast really matters.

“We were very moved by the application from East Belfast Community Development Agency and the difference this project will make locally.

We’re proud to play a small part in helping it come to life and supporting the community in such a meaningful way.”

As part of the programme, EBCDA will work alongside organisations including CRUSE NI and Uhub Counselling to deliver specialist support and signposting services.

James Brown & Sons launched the Community Impact Grant to support one major community project each year that demonstrates strong local involvement and the ability to create lasting benefit.

214 214 QUINN MERCEDES E CLASS QUINN MERCEDES E CLASS

ORDER N FOR YOUOW NEW 2 R HEARSE 71 LIMOUS OR INE

3 DOOR, 5 DOOR, LIMOUSINE 3 DOOR, 5 DOOR, LIMOUSINE

CONTACT FEARGHAS, DEBORAH CONTACT FEARGHAS, DEBORAH OROR PATRICK@FEARGHASQUINN.COM PATRICK@FEARGHASQUINN.COM

WWW.FEARGHASQUINN.COM

L-R: Douglas Reid, Anne Reid & Bill Reid with the new Bentley Hearse

Douglas Funeral Directors 100-YEAR ANNIVERSARY ‘Family serving family since 1926’. A motto that has served Douglas Funeral Directors and the people of Ballynahinch for 100 years.

Now 100 years later, Douglas Funeral Directors would like to take this opportunity to thank the people of Ballynahinch and Mid-Down for their continued faith in the company.

Mr Hugh Robinson Douglas established the business in early 1926 when he purchased the existing firm of Patterson Undertakers, the owner having decided to emigrate to America.

On the 11th April 1926, Douglas Funeral Directors conducted their first funeral of a Mrs Mary A. McConnell of The Square, Ballynahinch at the total cost of £10.00, and while times and prices have changed, the company ethos has remained.

‘To dedicate ourselves to serving families from all backgrounds, religions and faiths with equality and kindness, to offer our knowledge, expertise, staff and facilities as a resource to those families at a competitive cost.’

With the exception of a brief period during the 1980s, the Douglas family has owned one of Northern Irelands longest established funeral directors for a century. Beginning with Hugh 32 | FuneralTimes

Robinson Douglas, then his sons Billy and Leslie and more recently Bill Reid (Nephew of Billy and Leslie), the company has become firmly established amongst the local community.

For a long number of years, the company operated out of a modest office on Ballynahinch Main Street, but under the stewardship and vision of current owner Bill Reid, the firm has relocated to 20 Dromore Road, Ballynahinch. In 2013, the current, purpose-built premises were officially opened by previous owner, Billy Douglas, a nod to the traditions of the past but with the future in mind.

The £500,000 plus investment was a significant outlay, built on the site of a former filling station, and designed by local architect, Robert Semple, the new premises were a huge advancement on the previous office.

Boasting a 140 seat funeral church with the ability to extend this to 180 seats, where provision can be made for refreshments, whether a family welcomes friends the evening before a funeral or after the funeral service, 3 well-appointed viewing rooms, office suites, a spacious, comfortable reception area and

one. With a substantial outdoor display of ample, private parking facilities, the new headstones and monumental work, this allows building represents how we feel about the the opportunity to select a beautiful, lasting service we provide, that only the best is good tribute without the guesswork of what it will enough. look like.

As time and technology advances, Douglas Over the last 100 years, there have been so Funeral Home now has the ability to exhibit many people who have contributed to the personal slideshows showing sentimental success and growth of the company, from photographs of a life well lived, also the those humble beginnings of Hugh Douglas, Billy creation of our own Youtube channel, ‘Douglas and Rita Douglas, Leslie and ‘B’ Douglas, Eric and Funeral Directors’ allows us to record and then Joy Campbell through to current owners Bill stream any funeral service to anywhere in the and Anne Reid, these people have guided this world if a family so desires. company to where it is now.

Like many Funeral Directors, our fleet Bill and Anne’s decision to reacquire the of vehicles is a source of immense pride. company on the 1st July 1991 was driven, in no Sometimes the first thing the public notices small part by Bill’s mother, Sylvia, who was a about their local funeral director is the vehicles great encouragement that this was the career they see on the roads, and therefore we have they should always taken be focusing great care and on, a career consideration that became of not only a vocation to our Funeral them both. fleet but As we look to our support the future, Bill vehicles. From and Anne’s son, our bespoke Douglas Reid Volkswagen has already Multi-Van to conducted his our Mercedes first funeral. On R-Class, both the 6th of June finished to 2025, Douglas the highest of conducted standards, we the funeral L-R: Douglas Reid, Bill Reid, Billy Douglas and Anne Reid at the use these for of Mrs June our daily duties opening of the new premises in 2013 E. Kirkpatrick, as they provide adding another generation to the funeral a discreet and slightly more subtle vehicle. directing family.

The most recent addition to our fleet is We must add some very special thanks to the new Bentley Hearse, originally a Bentley some people and organisations, without which Flying Spur V8, this was handcrafted by Eagle we would never have made the company what Specialist Vehicles. With a 4.0 litre V8 engine, it is today. in stunning, dark metallic onyx, with black We would posthumously like to thank the leather interior and a bespoke laminate deck to following and if any living friends or relatives match the crown cut Koa wood of the original are reading this, please accept our gratitude, To vehicle. The Bentley Hearse is the ultimate in Billy Douglas, Shanley Johnston, William Rigg, automotive craftsmanship and coupled with and Jim Crockard, thank you for all your help our Limousine provides the most elegant fleet and advice in those early years. of vehicles to help you say goodbye to your To Marion Hunter, David Rigg and Jim Rodgers, loved one. we pass on our gratitude for your long service Douglas Funeral Directors continues to in those early years and your continued support guide our families after the funeral with help of the company. and advice on a fitting tribute to your loved FuneralTimes | 33

To Stephen Chapman, Trevor Alexander, Billy Horne, John Hall and Ruby Clifford, thank you for helping us over the last 15 years while the company expanded, moved premises and continued to flourish, your help, guidance, experience and knowledge has not gone unnoticed and we hope you know the high regard in which we hold you.

To Nigel Reid of Alex Reid & Son, thank you for constructing our premises that serve all of the Mid-Down community. Your craftsmanship and attention to detail are second to none.

To Edengrove Presbyterian Church and the Rev. Scott Woodburn for not only the use of your carpark for additional funeral parking, but for your support and faith in what we continue to try and build here.

To every clergy man and woman of any and all denominations that ever helped us, to every gravedigger, driver, church warden, musician, crematorium attendant or catering team, we want to thank you from the very bottom of our hearts for all your help over the years.

To all our current staff, our Funeral Directors,

John Wallace, David Browne and David Jess, our administration team of Gillian Baxter, Naomi Graham, Marina Galway and Andrew Taylor and all our support team, Andrew and Jamie Bracewell, Albert Gibson and John Ward, we want to take this opportunity to thank you for upholding our high standards and for your care and attention to detail.

Here at Douglas Funeral Directors, we hope we have created a special place that serves all of Ballynahinch and Mid-Down, and as the years march on, and with confidence in the next generation, we continue to believe that dignity, compassion and professionalism are the very cornerstone of the service we provide to grieving families.

Douglas Funeral Directors will continue to meet families whatever their circumstances, wherever they are. We will listen, guide and work with our families to ensure they continue to receive the service they deserve for the next 100 years.

CONNEELY (091) 562 866

TRADE SERVICES Since 1845

Available 7 Days a Week

OUR SERVICES EMBALMING & HYGIENIC SPECIALISTS Carried out by qualified qualifi f ed MBIE embalmers in full f ll compliance with the BIE Code of Practice. As one of fu Ireland’s leading trade embalming mortuaries we take great pride in our high standards of care. BIE certificates repatriation certifi f cates are av aavailable ailable up uupon on request.

TRADE COFFIN & PRODUCT SALES coffins, A comprehensive range of coff ffins, caskets and fu ffuneral neral products are av aavailable ailable to trade clients. We are adapting offer specific continuously l adap a ting and improving our stock levels to off ffer the best industry r specifi f c items to our office have customers. Please contact the off ffice if you hav a e any n queries.

COLLECTION TEAMS comfortable Hearse, Hearsette and Private Ambulance collection teams are av aavailable ailable up uupon on request. All staff f are comfo f rtable bereaved in dealing with bereav a ed fa ffamillies millies and will act as a representative fo fforr your fi ffirm. rm.

FUNERAL HOME Our Funeral Home is av aavailable ailable to hire fo fforr private fa ffamily mily l visits, reposings, pray prayer a er services or humanist services. offer office.

Coffee We can also off ffer assistants. To enquire please contact the off ffice. Memorial Slideshows, Tea and Coff ffee and a Live-Stream webcam can be included.

DAILY COLLECTIONS

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL GALWAY

Twoo UH T Tw U UHG G Collection Periods - Mo M Monday nday a to Friday F iday Fr a 8.30 - 9.30 a.m. & 2.00 - 3.00 p.m.

One UH U UHG G Collection Period - We W Weekends ekends & Bank Ho H Holidays liday a s

8.30 - 9.30 a.m.

Closely l located to Th T Thee Galway a Ho H Hospice, s ice, Bons Secours & Galway Clinic sp info@galwayfunerals.com

Flood Street, Galway City - H91 A786

BIE News BIE News Ireland Division Hi All, I hope everyone enjoyed the couple of days of sunshine and all the seasons we get in one day!

We are holding our second meeting of 2026 on Sunday 5th July in Mount Jerome Crematorium @12.30pm. We would like to encourage all students and members to attend. We have a great day planned out!

Can’t wait to catch up with everyone!

On a final note I’d like to wish everyone a lovely summer, try to get out and enjoy when you can and look forward to seeing everyone at the next meeting.

BIE Irish Chairperson

Niamh Cusack

The Victorian Chapel at Mount Jerome Crematorium 36 | FuneralTimes

BIE News BIE News Northern Division

A

sincere thank you to everyone who attended our second meeting and education session at the Dunsilly Hotel on 10 May 2026. It was fantastic to see such a strong turnout and to spend time catching up with colleagues from across the profession.

We were delighted to welcome guest speaker Cyril Gantley, who delivered an engaging and informative educational presentation, followed by a practical session that was greatly appreciated by members.

The day provided an excellent opportunity not only for learning and professional development but also for sharing ideas and discussing future topics and events.

A special congratulations must go to Kristy Badger on receiving her qualification certificate. Kristy has now become the third generation of embalmers in her

family to achieve this qualification, It was particularly special to have both her mother and grandmother present to witness the presentation. On behalf of everyone, Congratulations Kristy Planning is already underway for our next meeting, and further details will be shared with members as soon as arrangements are confirmed.

Finally, after what feels like a long wait, summer has made an appearance! I hope you all find some time to enjoy the warmer weather, and I look forward to seeing you at our next gathering.

Kristy Badger with her mother Helen Badger and grandmother Marion Watters

Kristy Badger with our Chairman Nicholas Gormley

Secretary

Jamie Carnahan

Members engaging with Cyril Gantley’s presentation FuneralTimes | 37

List of BIE Officers and Appointed Representatives for 2026/2027 IRISH DIVISION Chairperson, Divisional Liaison Officer & 2nd National Council Rep: Niamh Cusack MBIE Ballingowan West, Villierstown, Cappoquin, Co. Waterford.

Tel: 086 3744762 E: cusackembalmings@gmail.com Secretary & Public Relations officer: Sarah Roe 4. Thorndale Park, Arthane Dublin D05 T9H0 Tel: 085 7313237 E: sarah.roe.embalming@gmail.com 1st National Council Rep & National Educational Rep: Cyril Gantley MBIE 336 Kildare Road, Crumlin, Dublin 12 Mobile: 085 7671582 E: cyril.gantley@mortuary-science.ie Treasurer and Professional Standards Rep: Susan Moran MBIE 20 Cedarwood Park Newbridge, Co. Kildare Mobile 086 0619500 E.susan.moran@mortuary-science.ie

NORTHERN IRELAND DIVISION NI Chairman: Nicholas Gormley MBIE Unit 5, 3 Main Street, Maghera BT46 5AA Tel: 07761 500902 Email: support@gms-ni.com NI Secretary: Jamie Carnahan MBIE S. Clarke & Son Funeral Directors 12 Court Square, Newtownards BT23 7NY Tel: 028 9181 2168 Email: jamie@sclarkeandson.co.uk 38 | FuneralTimes

NI Treasurer: Andrew McMullan MBIE 22 High Street, Ballymoney Co. Antrim BT53 6AQ Tel: 028 2766 2265 E: andrew@mcmullanfunerals.com NI Public Relations Offcer: Ciaran Bailie MBIE 27 Navan Court Armagh Tel. 07523 477852 ciaranbailie@googlemail.com NI Student Liaison Officer Charlie Poots MBIE NI 1st National Council Representative: Laurence O’Neill MBIE 98 Stewartstown Road, Belfast BT11 9JP Tel: 028 9062 0099 E: oneill8210@hotmail.com NI 2nd National Council Representative: Mrs Barbara Fowley, MBIE Killakee, Rockbrook Rathfarnham, Dublin 16 Telephone: 00353 (0)86 1911022 Email: barbarafowley@yahoo.ie NI Professional Standards Rep: Pat Harley, MBIE 67 Creggan Road, L’derry BT48 9DA Tel: 07712 899137 E: pat.harley@hotmail.co.uk

NI 1st Educational Committee Representative: Deborah McConnell MBIE James Brown & Sons 300 Newtownards Road, Belfast Tel: 028 9045 1021 E: jamesbrown.belfast@ funeralpartners.com

NATIONAL UK DIVISION President: Mr Edward William-Price MBIE Imm. Past National President: Mrs Rachel Shipley MBIE 1st Vice National President: Maria Stibbards 2nd Vice National President: Karen Caney FBIE National PRO Ben Whithworth National General Secretary: Gareth Doherty National Treasurer: Michael Liddle FBIE 10 Yew Tree Close, Silsoe MK45 4EQ Tel: 01525 860117 E: michaelliddle914@gmail.com Editor: Gwen Schofield FBIE 9 Seymour Walk, Meltham, Holmfirth HD9 4BP Home Tel: 01484 851994 Mobile: 07778 279100 E: gwen.schofield@ntlworld.co.uk Master Fellow: Karen Caney FBIE Student Liaison Officer: Adrian Walters MBIE Tel: 01564 778991

CASSIDY CHAUFFEUR DRIVE

Newly Restored 1940’s Rolls Royce Hearse For Hire Our recently restored 1940’s Rolls Royce Hearse is available for hire to Funeral Directors, along with one of our drivers, throughout the country.

13 Knockmitten Lane, Western Industrial Estate, Dublin 12 Phone: 01 4501533 / Mobile: 087 2567822 FuneralTimes | 39

John-Mark Griffin - Looking Ahead to the IAFD Presidency in November ‘26

A

s he prepares to assume the presidency of the Irish Association of Funeral Directors (IAFD) in November 2026, JohnMark Griffin brings with him not only a deep sense of responsibility, but a heritage rooted firmly in the profession. A sixth-generation funeral director with Griffin’s Funeral Home, a family business serving communities since 1860, his perspective is shaped by both tradition and a clear understanding of the evolving role of funeral service in modern Ireland.

Currently serving as Vice President of the Irish Association of Funeral Directors, John-Mark views the transition to President as both an honour and a duty, one that extends beyond representation to active engagement with colleagues across the country. Central to his approach is a commitment to listening and understanding the challenges facing funeral directors nationwide, advocating on their behalf, and ensuring the Association continues

John-Mark Griffin with Manager Antoinette Barry 40 | FuneralTimes

to support both its members and the families they serve.

He is keenly aware of the strong foundations laid by previous presidents and intends to build upon their work, maintaining a focus on excellence, education, and the highest professional standards. John-Mark is particularly passionate about fostering professional development and encouraging best practice, while also strengthening relationships with government bodies and key industry stakeholders.

At the core of his philosophy lies a belief that funeral directing remains, above all, a profession grounded in trust, compassion, dignity, and service. “It is a tremendous honour to be entrusted with this role,” he reflects. “I look forward to supporting my fellow funeral directors and representing our profession, while continuing the excellent work undertaken by those who have served before me.”

Lead Embalmer Clare Haran, MBIE, is supported by Emma Fitzgerald,

Griffin’s Trade Services & Embalming Excellence Supporting Funeral Directors Throughout Ireland’s Mid West & Beyond Alongside his leadership role, John-Mark Griffin continues to oversee the expanding trade services offered by Griffin’s to and from the mid west region. Increasingly, funeral directors are seeking support with removals, embalming, preparation, and transportation, a demand that reflects both the pressures on the profession and the trust placed in experienced providers.

G

riffin’s Trade Services offers flexible, discreet solutions tailored to the needs of funeral directors in the mid west region. They also offer services to funeral directors outside the immediate area, who may have client needs involving transfers and embalming to the mid west region. Services include the professional collection and transfer of the deceased, expert embalming, temporary care and holding facilities with refrigeration, and coordinated return transportation. Funeral directors may also arrange collection directly from Griffin’s facilities at their convenience.

Every case is treated with the same level of care and attention as those entrusted directly to the Griffin family, with a strong emphasis on discretion, professionalism, dignity, and clear communication throughout each stage of the process. Continued investment in facilities, equipment, and training ensures that these standards are consistently upheld.

Embalming Expertise A cornerstone of Griffin’s service offering is its embalming team, led by Clare Haran, MBIE, who brings more than two decades of practical experience to the role. She is supported

by Emma Fitzgerald, representing the next generation of mortuary professionals and progressing through her formal qualifications in mortuary science.

Together, the team combines extensive handson experience with modern techniques and ongoing education. Their work is guided by a commitment to achieving the highest standards of presentation, always with respect for the individuality and dignity of each person in their care. Continuous professional development

ensures alignment with evolving best practices across the sector.

Caring for Families Today and into the future For over 160 years, Griffin’s Funeral Home has remained family-owned and operated, supporting generations of families throughout Limerick and the wider region. Across six generations, the business has built a reputation for compassionate service during life’s most difficult moments.

Today, that legacy continues through a careful balance of tradition and innovation. Griffin’s remains committed to providing personalised, meaningful funerals that reflect the life and wishes of each individual, while also embracing modern practices, facilities, and technologies.

Ongoing investment in its team, fleet, and infrastructure ensures the business continues to meet the changing expectations of families, including increased demand for personalisation, cremation services, pre-planning, and greater family involvement in the funeral process.

Above all, the emphasis remains on listening, guiding families with care, and alleviating unnecessary stress during times of bereavement.

Looking Ahead “While much has changed since 1860, our purpose remains the same: to care for families with compassion, professionalism and dignity,” John-Mark reflects. “As we look to the future, we remain committed to delivering the highest standards of service while continuing to evolve to meet the changing needs of the communities we serve.”

FuneralTimes | 41

New Delivery - Quinn Hearse and Limousine

Brian McElroy Funeral Directors add another E Class limousine to their fleet from Quinn Hearse and Limousine

Pearson Repatriation Service (UK) ! SMALL INDEPENDENT FAMILY RUN COMPANY OFFERING A FAST AND RELIABLE SERVICE HOURS A DAY

As part of our service to you, we can: s 2EPATRIATE THE DECEASED FROM THE 5+ s 0ROVIDE A COFlN AND INTERIOR s 0ROVIDE EMBALMING SERVICES

Telephone +44 (0)1484 844289 Proprietor Clive J Pearson LMBIFD. DIP.FD. MBIE -ANCHESTER 2OAD -ARSDEN (UDDERSlELD 7EST 9ORKSHIRE 5+ ($ %9 42 | FuneralTimes

07546 954222

07971 634098

07305 892201

Ian Deboys 07368 440040

Hope Kelly 07530 000300

MaryLou McShane 07962 906236

O'Dowd Lewis 07955 200555 Declan Walsh 07859 816585

Meet the Humanist Ceremonies celebrants!

A series of profileshumanists.uk/ceremonies on Humanist Ceremonies trained and accredited celebrants in Northern Ireland, meet three of the network.

Humanists UK, we 39 Moreland Street, London EC1V 8BB Registered Charity No. 285987

Find a celebrant: https://humanists.uk/ceremonies/find-a-celebrant/funerals/

SARAH CLEMENTS

MICHAEL MCALINDEN

EMILY O’DOWD LEWIS

Hello, my name is Sarah Clements. I am originally from Armagh City and currently live in Belfast with my partner and two cats.

My motivation to train as a humanist funeral celebrant, stemmed from frustration at the perceived lack of options when it comes to funerals. So many of us have not been aware that a non-religious funeral is an option. I feel that after everything we’ve been through in our wee corner of the world, that we deserve choice and diversity and to have the ceremony that we would want.

I believe that there is no such thing as an ordinary person and an ordinary life.

I have experience in social work and family mediation but mainly I am a people person who enjoys learning about the lives of others and all the quirks that make us an individual.

Michael (aka Micky) is very much a people person having worked in the voluntary and statutory youth service in Northern Ireland for the past 30 years.

Having worked with young people all his professional life, he has a keen sense of service to the community so becoming a celebrant was a natural progression for him.

He trained in 2019 to become a humanist funeral celebrant following the death of a close friend who was non-religious but whose family were unaware that a non-religious funeral was an option.

From this point on funerals have become very important to Micky who notes that, while we need to mourn the loss of a loved one, we also need to remember and celebrate the wonderful life they have lived and the joy they brought to everyone who knew them.

Emily lives just outside Belfast with her partner and young son. She travels all over Northern Ireland to visit families and officiate funerals for their loved ones.

Emily was introduced to humanist ceremonies when her grandfather died nine years ago. The family were unsure what to do.

He wasn’t religious, so how should they honour his life? It was then that the funeral director told the family about the option of celebrating his life with a humanist celebrant. Now, it is Emily’s privilege to meet with families and to hear their own stories of the person they have lost, and write warm ceremonies to reflect their wishes and to give an appropriate send-off for those they love.

FuneralTimes | 43

44 | FuneralTimes

BOOK OF CONDOLENCE STAND - BACK IN STOCK

CALL FOR FURTHER DETAILS FuneralTimes | 45

The Chemist Corner

Formaldehyde-Free, science-approved: an inside look at Freedom Art

By Autumn Cooper

S

everal months ago, I attended the Dodge Technical Seminar in Las Vegas. One of my co-workers, Tom Sherman, gave an excellent presentation on Freedom Art. I wanted to take the opportunity to expand on his talk and share additional information for readers who may have heard about this product but still have questions.

In 2023, I was fortunate enough to give a presentation on Freedom Art, often referred to as a “green embalming chemical.” Both then, and again during Tom’s presentation, I heard the same question repeated: “But how does it work?”

Working in the laboratory at Dodge allows me to conduct in-depth research on our products. As someone with a technical mind, I like answering the “why” and “how” behind what we do using science. The best place to begin is by looking at the components that make up Freedom Art. When reviewing the SDS, we see four primary chemicals in the formula: Propylene Glycol, Isopropyl Alcohol, Sodium Tetraborate (Borax), and Glutaraldehyde.

Propylene Glycol (PG), as referenced in Embalming: History, Theory, and Practice by Robert G. Mayer, is “reported to be superior to glycerine as a general solvent and inhibitor of mold growth.” PG is widely used throughout the industry in many embalming chemicals.

It is an excellent solvent, fully miscible with water, which is crucial since water is the vehicle for most embalming solutions. PG also contributes to disinfection, helps prevent tissue dehydration, and assists in the deeper distribution of chemicals into tissues.

Next is Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA), the most important component of Freedom Art. IPA preserves and disinfects by denaturing proteins and dissolving the lipids that make up cell membranes. To simplify the chemistry: 46 | FuneralTimes

IPA penetrates the cell walls of bacteria and disrupts their structure, rendering them unable to function. Without an intact cell wall, the organism breaks down. IPA also causes dehydration, preventing bacterial cells from retaining moisture or multiplying; a major advantage for embalmers and a major disadvantage for bacteria.

Moving on to Sodium Tetraborate (Borax).

Borax is another effective drying agent with antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Its natural antimicrobial action creates an environment that is inhospitable to organisms responsible for decomposition. Borax is not new to the embalming world. Borax was used by the ancient Egyptians in the earliest forms of human and animal embalming.

Additionally, we have Glutaraldehyde, the most familiar ingredient in Freedom Art. Glutaraldehyde works by cross-linking proteins within tissue, stabilizing them and slowing decomposition. Combined with its broad-spectrum disinfection properties, glutaraldehyde is effective against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores.

In addition to the components listed above, Dodge also utilizes a proprietary formula of leading-edge co-solvents along with other ingredients to achieve the high level of preservation embalmers demand while maintaining regulatory qualifications of the Green Burial Council. This is what makes Dodge’s Freedom Art stand out from the other companies “green products.” Dodge is the only embalming chemical company to employ three chemists who work exclusively for Dodge (two in the U.S. and one in Canada), providing modern day research techniques to develop new embalming formulations. Together, these ingredients give Freedom Art the ability to serve as a trusted formaldehyde-free and phenol-free

alternative for embalming.

Lastly, when reviewing the components of Freedom Art, it is important to note that this product contains no phenol. While many other “formaldehyde-free” embalming chemicals highlight the absence of formaldehyde, they often overlook the significant health concerns associated with including phenol in their formulations. Phenol is a highly reactive aromatic compound, meaning it travels through air easily and rapidly interacts with living tissue, posing serious risks to the embalmer.

It can affect the nervous system, liver, and respiratory tract, and most critically it crosses the placenta, allowing inhaled vapors to reach a developing fetus. Unlike many other chemicals encountered in the embalming room, phenol is absorbed rapidly through both the skin and the respiratory system, increasing the potential for toxicity even at low exposure levels. By eliminating phenol entirely, Freedom Art minimizes these risks and provides all embalmers with a safer, more responsible alternative.

The second most common question I am asked is, “Why would I want to use this product?”

The answer is more complex than one or two sentences. Let’s first look at the broader interest in “green embalming.” In a study published by the Wake Forest Law Review, 57.7% of surveyed respondents said they would consider a green burial. In a separate report from the National Funeral Directors Association, 61.4% of people expressed interest in exploring green funeral options. Those are significant numbers. If over half of your families were asking about an orange urn, wouldn’t you consider placing one in your showroom? So why should embalming be any different? Staying informed about industry trends and the needs of the families you serve sets you apart as a professional.

Taking the time to learn how green embalming chemicals work gives you an advantage when a family walks in and mentions “green burial.”

Knowing where to find a trusted formaldehydefree chemical helps provide confidence at the embalming table.

Another point to consider is jaundice. Now I have your attention, right? Personally, I have yet to discover the perfect formula for embalming a jaundice case. Just when I think I have figured it out, something goes sideways. However, there

is one consistent method that ensures you won’t return to the prep room the next morning to find an avocado-colored body: Freedom Art. Since Freedom Art contains no formaldehyde, it does not cause discoloration, only wellpreserved and disinfected tissue. It is another valuable tool in the embalmer’s toolbox.

Freedom Art has been researched for more than 20 years. The Dodge laboratories have documented cases in which bodies embalmed with Freedom Art remained outside refrigeration for over 30 days with no signs of degradation. As our profession continues to evolve, embalmers benefit from understanding the science behind the chemicals they rely on.

Freedom Art is not a replacement for every case, nor is it intended to be, but it remains a powerful, well-researched option that meets the growing demand for formaldehyde-free preservation. Whether you’re preparing for a green burial, managing a jaundice case, or simply expanding your technical skill set, Freedom Art offers consistency, reliability, and peace of mind. At the end of the day, having more tools and knowing how to use them allows us to better serve both the deceased and the families who place their trust in us.

Autumn serves as sales representative with Dodge, covering Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Western Massachusetts alongside her role as part time chemist for the company.

She is also adjunct faculty for the Mortuary Science Program at Wayne State University and Cape Cod Community College.

She is a licensed funeral director and embalmer in the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Rhode Island.

If you would like to be added to the mailing list for the complementary Dodge Magazine which is printed quarterly or would like to discuss any of the products mentioned in this article, please contact us on the number below: Shepherds Funeral Supplies, Unit 2A Royal Canal Business Park, Athlone Road, Co. Longford.

Ph. 00353 43 3349702/ 00353 87 2486668 FuneralTimes | 47

Available Hearses and Limousines WhatsApp Group Have you considered establishing an ‘Available Funeral Fleet’ WhatsApp group with other funeral directors in your area?

For funeral directors, the cost and logistical challenge of maintaining a fleet of hearses and limousines is all too familiar. For smaller independent firms especially, keeping clean, wellpresented vehicles available at short notice can place real pressure on already stretched resources.

And when demand suddenly rises, precious time can be lost phoning around other firms to find available vehicles.

A well-managed WhatsApp group could change that by giving funeral directors a private, reliable, and instant network to: • Share the availability of spare hearses and limousines instantly, as needs arise.

• Request emergency cover quickly when vehicles are in maintenance or already committed • Arrange short-term vehicle loans between trusted colleagues when demand is high

The real strength of this idea lies in its simplicity: • Membership limited to verified funeral directors for trust and peace of mind.

• No expensive subscription fees.

• No middleman, no commission, and no unnecessary complications.

• Just funeral directors supporting one another directly.

This practical and forward-thinking idea was developed by David Capper of Elwood & Capper in Dunmurry, Belfast, with the aim of bringing together as many funeral directors across Northern Ireland as possible.

By joining the group, funeral directors can benefit from faster support, stronger local connections, and a simple way to access help when it is needed most.

If you would like to be part of this network, please contact David on 07850 067283 with your details to be added to the group.

If you are based further afield, this could also be a model worth introducing in your own area to save time, reduce stress, and make vehicle support easier during busy periods.

New Delivery - Quinn Hearse and Limousine

Peter Forshaw Funeral Services, Middlewich, upgrade their fleet with new E Class 214 from Quinn Hearse and Limousine.

FuneralTimes | 49

Heffernan’s host ‘In the company of care’ event H

effernans Funeral Directors, Trim & Longwood, Co. Meath recently held an event, In the Company of Care, dealing with life after loss and planning for the future.

Thank you to everyone who joined us. It was a very touching and informative evening, and we truly appreciate all those who took the time to come along and be part of it.

A sincere thank you also to our guest speakers, Dr. Bill Webster renowned grief counscellor and Colm Kieran from My Farewell Wishes, for sharing their insight and experience, which added so much to the discussion.

L-R: Niall Mulligan and Dr Bill Webster with Aidan Heffernan

L-R: Gráinne Birmingham, Aidan Heffernan, Áine Tuffy, Niall Mulligan, Dr Bill Webster, Celene Heffernan, Dora Heffernan, Colm Kieran 50 | FuneralTimes

Ballyfinane, Firies, Killarney, Co. Kerry Tel: +353 87 269 0044 sales@coachbuilders.ie

www.coachbuilders.ie

BUILD YOUR DREAM VEHICLE WITH US!

AT PIERCE COACHBUILDERS, WE DON’T BELIEVE IN LIMITATIONS. Whether you’re a fan of Mercedes, Skoda, or have your heart set on any other brand, WE CAN TURN YOUR VISION INTO REALITY. Our expertise spans across all makes and models, ensuring that your custom build is exactly what you’ve been dreaming of.

DON’T SETTLE FOR ORDINARY! LET US BUILD THE EXTRAORDINARY VEHICLE YOU’VE ALWAYS WANTED.

CONTACT US TODAY TO GET STARTED ON YOUR CUSTOM BUILD!

Cashflow without conflict: practical ways to reduce debtor days without damaging relationships Drew Callingham ACMA, CGMA, Director, Oak Circle Accounting Ltd Oak Circle Accounting supports independent funeral directors with clearer visibility over cash, debtors and margins, helping owners make calm decisions without guesswork. hello@oakcircle.co.uk / oakcircle.co.uk

M

ost funeral directors know that payment can be slow but very few have ever measured quite how slow, and the difference between those two things is bigger than it sounds.

Ask the owner of a typical independent funeral firm how long it takes to get paid, and you will usually get a pause, followed by something along the lines of “it varies” or “some families are quicker than others.” They could probably name two or three accounts that have been sitting unpaid for too long. What they almost certainly cannot tell you is the average number of days between conducting a funeral and receiving the money for it, whether that number is getting better or worse, and what the cause of the delay is.

That gap between instinct and fact matters more than it might appear. Because once you measure how long it takes to get paid, you stop managing cash by feel and start managing it by evidence.

Those two approaches tend to

52 | FuneralTimes

produce very different results.

The calculation itself is simple. Take the total of your unpaid invoices right now, divide it by your annual revenue, and multiply by 365.

The result is your “debtor days” - the average time, in days, between completing a funeral and receiving payment.

For most well-managed independent firms, sitting somewhere between 20 and 45 days is a reasonable position. Once you are consistently above 60 days, the pressure on cash starts to build in ways that are difficult to manage without borrowing.

Above 90, there is usually something structurally wrong.

What makes the funeral sector different from most service businesses is the nature of who owes you the money.

Not all late payments are the same, and they cannot all be managed the same way.

There are three broad groups, each with their own payment pattern and lumping them together into a single number can hide as much as it reveals.

The first group is families

paying directly. These should be the fastest payers, and where a firm has the most control. Payment expectations are set at the arrangement meeting, the invoice goes out after the service, and most families settle within a few weeks. When this group is consistently slow, the cause is almost always a process issue rather than a willingness problem. Invoices not going out promptly.

Unclear expectations at the arrangement stage. No consistent follow-up routine.

These are not dramatic failures; just quiet habits that compound over time.

The practical fixes are equally undramatic. Invoice on the day of the funeral, or the morning after - not as a weekly batch job. Discuss payment at the arrangement meeting as a natural part of the conversation, not as an afterthought. Offer a payment link in the invoice email so that families can settle with a single click rather than finding a sort code on a letter. And follow up consistently: a

gentle reminder at seven days, a slightly more direct note at fourteen, and a formal but compassionate letter at thirty.

The point is not to pressure anyone. It is to have a process, so that nothing sits unpaid for months simply because nobody noticed.

Some firms have gone further and moved to collecting payment before the funeral takes place. It sounds more radical than it is. When framed around covering the third-party costs the firm is paying on the family’s behalf - crematorium fees, burial authorities, doctors’ fees most families do not hesitate.

The firms that operate this way typically carry debtor days close to zero for this group. They eliminate the chasing problem entirely, free up cash that would otherwise sit in unpaid invoices and remove any awkwardness around contacting a bereaved family weeks later to ask for money.

The second group is solicitors and estates, and this is where things slow down considerably. Probate takes time, solicitors work to their own timetable, and chasing feels uncomfortable because the relationship matters.

The error most firms make is mixing estate invoices in with everything else and then wondering why the overall picture looks poor. Family debtor days might be 20.

Estate debtor days might be 90. The blended figure of 45 looks manageable but masks the fact that one group is fine and the other is a structural feature of the work rather than something you can fix by

chasing harder.

The approach here is about managing the process, not increasing the pressure.

Invoice the solicitor as soon as probate is confirmed and follow up within a week to make sure it has been received and logged on their system.

Getting into their queue early matters more than chasing once you are already waiting.

Factor the delay into your cash flow forecast so that estate payments become a planned timing difference rather than a source of frustration. And know when slow becomes unreasonable - a firm but professional letter at the six-month mark, referencing the original invoice date and requesting a timeline, is entirely appropriate. You are a creditor of the estate, and you are entitled to know where things stand.

The third group is pre-paid plan providers, and the timing here is largely outside the firm’s control. What can be controlled is how quickly claims are submitted, after all, the clock starts when you submit not when the funeral takes place, and whether you know your provider’s standard payment terms. If you do not know how long your provider is supposed to take to pay, find out. It should be in your agreement.

Once you know the expected timeline, you can spot when they are outside it and follow up with a specific reference rather than a vague enquiry.

And if they consistently take 30 or 45 days, build that into the cash flow rather than expecting them to behave like a family payer. Adjusting

the expectation is more productive than increasing the chasing.

Taken together, the effect of tightening these habits is not trivial. A firm turning over €420,000 a year that reduces its average debtor days from 60 to 35 will release roughly €30,000 of cash that was always theirs - it just arrives in the bank rather than sitting on a list. That does not create new profit, but it puts money that has already been earned into the account sooner. In a business where cash timing matters as much as margin, that is not a small thing.

None of these changes require new software, extra staff, or a dramatic overhaul.

They require a consistent process and the discipline to maintain it. Most firms that bring their debtor days down do not do it through one dramatic intervention. They do it by tightening five or six small habits and sticking with them.

If you have never measured your debtor days, even a rough first calculation is worth the ten minutes it takes. Split it by group. You will almost certainly find that one category is dragging the average up and the others are fine. That is where the effort goes with the results usually following quicker than expected.

If you would like help building a debtor management routine that fits your firm - or if you want a clearer picture of where your cash is sitting - get in touch. It is a short conversation that usually turns up something useful.

Drew Callingham FuneralTimes | 53

Greater Choice for the Modern Funeral Director The new Mercedes 214 2-bearer hearse expands the Coleman Milne range, offering greater flexibility and practicality for modern funeral directors, while complementing the established 3-bearer configuration.

Available in AMG Line and Exclusive Premium, every vehicle is crafted to deliver the quality, refinement and presence expected from Coleman Milne.

Scan to Discover the Mercedes 214 Range

Contact your Area Sales Manager Tony Kerr: +44 (0)7860 586 850

PEAI News PEAI News PEAI News PEAI News...

PEAI MEMBERS 2026 AGM GROUP PHOTO

PEAI members receiving their certificates

Eoghan Fynes receiving his certificate from David McGowan 56 | FuneralTimes

Michael Kavanagh receiving his certificate

Catriona Gallagher is presented with her certificate

PEAI News PEAI News PEAI News PEAI News...

C

ongratulations to all our members who have received their certificates at our recent AGM in April. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank all our existing members for their continued support to the association.

David McGowan presents Marie McDaid with her certificate

Eithne McGowan receiving her certificate

Gemma McKiernan receives her certificate

David McGowan presents Joseph Twomey with his certificate

David McGowan presents Ian McDonagh with their certificate

Kim Cuddy receiving her certificate

DEDICATED TO THE EMBALMERS AND THE COMMUNITY The PEAI endeavours to provide support to its members. We are focused on promoting education and encouraging members to keep up-to-date with developments in embalming in Ireland and worldwide.

Please view our list of members available nationwide listed by county for your convenience on www.professionalembalmers.ie All members must meet certain criteria for being accepted into the Association.

Email: peaireland@gmail.com

List of PEAI Officers and Appointed Representatives p for 2026-2027 Chairperson - Professional Embalmers Association of Ireland Pauline Lynch MPEAI, MEAE Mobile: 087 7677088 Email: paulinelyn@gmail.com Secretary - Professional Embalmers Association of Ireland Kim Cuddy MPEAI Mobile: 087 0662051 Email: peaireland@gmail.com Treasurer - Professional Embalmers Association of Ireland Michael Grealish MPEAI, MEAE Mobile: 087-8184283 Email: grealishmichael@gmail.com PRO -Professional Embalmers Association of Ireland Joe McNamara MPEAI, MEAE, MIAFD Email: josephmcnamara94@gmail.com Professional Embalmers Association of Ireland are members of

Email: peaireland@gmail.com

Refurbished with Respect Caldwell’s Funeral Services has been serving the community of Portglenone, Co. Antrim and beyond for over 35 years. The recent refurbishment of their funeral home, represents a significant investment in the future of this well established family business.

F

uneral services can be formal or informal, and it’s entirely up to the family as to how religious the service is depending on their beliefs and the wishes of their loved one who has passed.

The recent refurbishment of Caldwell Funeral Home aims to provide families with a more welcoming environment on the run up to, and during, the funeral service. Thompson Caldwell tells us, “Many families increasingly value a private and comfortable space to mourn loved ones, away from the traditional family home.

The decision to modernise our premises, was to better accommodate family wakes, reflects these changing expectations while still respecting traditional values.”

Improved facilities such as a more modern spacious gathering area and enhanced accessibility, allows visitors to spend time together in a setting designed with dignity and compassion in mind.

The Caldwell family’s investment also highlights a commitment to the Portglenone community itself. By refurbishing and enhancing its facilities, Caldwell Funeral Services is ensuring that it can continue to provide high standards of care and service

for generations to come. It represents more than bricks and mortar, it is an investment in compassion and the Portglenone community.

In preserving cherished traditions while embracing modern expectations, the Caldwell refurbishments stands as a positive example of how this local funeral directors can continue to evolve while remaining firmly rooted in tradition and local values.

FuneralTimes | 59

The Gift of Presence - By Ian Fee Celebrant Lakelands Funeral Home & Crematorium, Cavan

I

was recently asked to offer some insight and advice to new funeral celebrants and perhaps the most encouraging thing I told them was that, after over thirty years in the ministry, I’m still learning. I use the word ‘ministry’ intentionally because, whether you’re a member of the clergy, a lay minister, or someone in a caring profession, you are ministering to those who have been bereaved.

This is true of funerals directors/planners, celebrants or anyone who is directly involved with a funeral and the care of those who have suffered a loss.

Realising or perhaps admitting that you are still learning is both freeing and humbling.

Freeing, because you know that you don’t have to have all the answers, and humbling, because it reminds you that each person’s story has a unique thread to add to the tapestry of your work, and each person’s life and death shines a light on our own humanity and mortality.

After over twenty years of Church ministry and seven years as a funeral celebrant, I have spent many, many hours in the midst of the great and mysterious ocean that is death and bereavement and how we look to navigate our way through such uncertain and frightening waters is a lesson most of us have had to learn at some point in our own lives.

The first step on that journey is simply to be present. I remember one terribly sad night following the death of a young man in an accident and as the family gathered in their shock and disbelief, I joined them in my role at the time as their local priest. We sat in the living room of the family home in stunned silence, while the rest of the house was a flurry of disbelieving activity and it was much later that one of the family told me that, as they looked around the room, they drew comfort

60 | FuneralTimes

from my quiet presence, not looking to speak or pray but to simply be there with them in the brokenness of that awful night. I do not say this to draw attention to myself because it is done by clergy and neighbours, emergency services and funeral directors everywhere.

Surely, there are things to be done and said, but there are also times to be silently present and open and available to the needs of those in grief.

An open mind, an open heart, along with open and listening ears are essential to our work in the funeral ministry. As a celebrant, there is as much to be learned from what is not said as from what is. Being entrusted with someone’s story and the telling of that story at their funeral service is such an honour and a truly humbling privilege. When their story is told, whether it is in a church, a funeral home, by their grave or at the crematorium, you are there to remember, not simply the dates and times and places of their life’s journey, but the essence of who they were, their character, their personality, the uniqueness that was theirs. We think not only of who they were, but of how they were, how they were known, how they were loved, how they will be missed.

Anyone can write an obituary, given the basic facts and details, but telling the story of a life calls for the storyteller, for that is what we are, to immerse themselves in their story and to paint a vibrant picture using the colours others provide. That is how we all remember our loved ones: in colour, in sounds, in touch and taste, in feeling and emotion. Regardless of our religious or philosophical beliefs, we can all share that common bond, being present to each other as we remember them, as we celebrate them, and as we give thanks for having shared the journey with them.

Crematorium, Facilities and Remembrance Garden Memorial Keepsakes

Lakelands Crematorium, Dublin Rd, Cavan, Co. Cavan Tel: 049 4362200 / Mob: 086 2458489 Email: info@LakelandsCrematorium.ie www.LakelandsCrematorium.ie

Supporting families beyond the funeral Evora Hospice (previously known as Southern Area Hospice Services) Launches New “In Their Memory” Giving Programme

F

or funeral directors, supporting families extends far beyond arranging a dignified farewell. Increasingly, bereaved families are seeking meaningful ways to honour the life of a loved one while creating a lasting legacy within their local community.

Evora Hospice is responding to this growing need through its new In Their Memory programme — a compassionate initiative that helps individuals, families, funeral professionals, faith groups, and community organisations celebrate loved ones through remembrance giving.

Based in Newry and serving communities across Down, Armagh, and Tyrone, Evora Hospice provides specialist palliative and end-of-life care. The new programme offers a range of accessible and meaningful ways for people to remember those they have lost while supporting future Hospice care for others.

Meaningful Ways to Remember The In Their Memory programme allows families to choose remembrance options that feel personal and appropriate to them.

These include one-off donations in memory of a loved one, monthly remembrance giving, online tribute pages where families can share photographs and messages, and funeral collection donations in lieu of flowers.

The Hospice also offers a dedicated Memory Tree within its gardens, where engraved leaves can be placed as a lasting tribute. In addition, Evora Hospice hosts remembrance events throughout the year, including candlelight evenings, remembrance walks, and reflective gatherings that bring people together in support and remembrance.

Supporting Funeral Directors Funeral directors play an important role in helping families navigate difficult decisions during bereavement. Recognising this, Evora Hospice has developed dedicated resources to support funeral professionals when discussing remembrance giving with families.

The materials provide clear information about remembrance options, funeral donation

processes, and practical guidance that can be shared sensitively when appropriate. By working alongside funeral directors, the Hospice hopes to ensure families are aware of the support available while helping to simplify donation arrangements.

Building Community Through Remembrance Remembrance is not only personal but also deeply communal. Schools, faith organisations, workplaces, and community groups are increasingly looking for meaningful ways to honour members of their communities while supporting local hospice care.

Through its community and corporate partnership initiatives, Evora Hospice is encouraging organisations across the region to take part in remembrance activities that foster connection, compassion, and local impact.

Creating a Lasting Legacy For many families, remembrance giving provides comfort in knowing that the memory of a loved one continues to help others facing serious illness and end-of-life care needs.

As demand for hospice services continues to grow, initiatives such as In Their Memory demonstrate how hospices and funeral professionals can work together to support bereaved families with dignity, compassion, and care beyond the funeral itself.

For funeral directors, the programme offers an additional way to support families during bereavement, helping transform remembrance into a lasting legacy that benefits future generations.

For more information about Evora Hospice’s In Their Memory programme, funeral director resources, or remembrance partnerships, visit evorahospice.org/getinvolved/in-their-memory/, contact the Supporter Care Team at supportercare@ evorahospice.org, or call 02830 267711.

Antrim and Newtownabbey Crematorium staff achieve prestigious qualification

J

onathan Fitzgerald, Assistant Crematorium Manager and Keira McWhirter, Crematorium Technician at Antrim and Newtownabbey Crematorium, have successfully completed the Crematorium Management Unit, a nationally recognised qualification delivered by the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM).

The Outgoing Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, praised their achievement, saying: “Jonathan and Keira’s commitment to continuous learning reflects a core value of the Crematorium, promoting a culture of shared knowledge and professional excellence. The Council is committed to leading the way in delivering compassionate, high-quality care for families during their most difficult times, and this is made possible through continued investment in

staff development.”

Their success highlights the professionalism and dedication of the entire Crematorium team and reinforces the Council’s ongoing dedication to providing meaningful, personalised cremation services for their local community and beyond.

Antrim and Newtownabbey Crematorium, which opened in 2023, is located just off the A8 from Sandyknowes Roundabout (M2) to Larne, directly opposite Ballyearl Arts and Leisure Centre on Doagh Road.

Owned and operated by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, the Crematorium team alongside colleagues in Bereavement Services and Cemetery teams was awarded the prestigious APSE UK Best Service Team 2024 in the Cemetery and Crematorium Service category.

The outgoing Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick presents Crematorium Management certificates to Crematorium staff, Jonathan Fitzgerald and Keira McWhirter.

FuneralTimes | 63

Your partner for all your hardware!

TRANSPORT COVER | Purple

COFFIN LINING | Da Vinci Bond

COFFIN LINING | Yates Tweed Magee

CATAFALQUE | Decoration with Cross

www.funeralsupplies.ie • www.morivita.com

FUNERAL SUPPLIES DONEGAL LTD. LEGHOWNEY DONEGAL TOWN CO. DONEGAL Contact Details: Enda Travers enda.travers@funeralsupplies.ie +353 87 7778629 Mark Campbell mark.campbell@morivita.com +44 7720 708613

M

orivita Ltd is a trusted manufacturer and supplier of high-quality funeral products, serving funeral directors, coffin manufacturers, and bereavement professionals across Ireland and the UK. Our comprehensive range includes coffin linings, soft furnishings, handles, ornaments, mortuary equipment, and graveyard supplies—carefully selected to combine quality, reliability, and value.

With a commitment to exceptional service and continuous innovation, we provide everything needed to support dignified and professional funeral care, backed by expert knowledge and dependable delivery.

EXTRATANK | Spencer

COFFIN LINING | Yates Tweed Mint ECO FLOWER BAND | Jute

Naturel or Cotton

A life in five stories Most lives cannot be contained in a timeline.

Ask a family what they remember, and they rarely begin with dates. They begin with stories. We don’t remember them as a list of achievements, but of tales we tell again and again, most often with a smile.

As an independent celebrant who crafts a bespoke ceremony every time, I come to the family meeting with an open mind, a listening ear, no agenda, no set order and no judgement.

The first thing I do is ask to see a picture of the loved one so that I can know, at least a little, who they are talking about. This is shown with many smiles, tears and comments as they begin to share the stories and memories that are this person in essence. I spend a little time asking for the framework of dates and events and then I relax, pen at the ready as they share and recall the moments that mattered most.

66 | FuneralTimes

These are not necessarily big events that changed lives by the size of their impact, but by the warm memory that is usually framed in love.

The grandfather who brought mint filled chocolate for his grandsons on every visit. They hated the taste, but they knew he had chosen and bought it just for them. One grandson said that if he got the chance to take that chocolate now, he would say thank you to his special grandpa and “eat the whole lot.” A whole lifetime of love symbolised in chocolate.

The father who drove through the night to get a daughter who was being abused. No questions asked, no doubting, no hesitation, just a quiet hug, a filled car and a safe place to return to.

A lifetime of love and devotion in a single but defining act that changed the course of her life.

Forever grateful. Forever remembered.

The Liverpool supporter who never missed a game, knew every detail about the club, team and players.

A ceremony full of Liverpool shirts dedicated to dad, granda and great granda.

With the number 54 on them to honour his birth year. They loved him for his complete dedication and his desire to compel everyone to follow the best team! The only song that could have been played that day was, of course, “You’ll never walk alone”. And he never did. They adored him and knew he loved them unconditionally.

The commonwealth games winner, who had his medals buried with him. A quiet and unassuming man who pursued his sport, loved his wife and his dog with his whole heart. A photo placed on his coffin showed his winning moment, forever a gold medal winner in the

hearts of those who loved him.

And the much-loved mum with so many children who, when asked, said she loved her dogs more than any of them! They knew her love for them was strong and unwavering.

They knew she would defend them and support them and correct them in every way she needed to. They knew her love and her devotion. She drank tea all day long from her favourite cup and they all wished she was still there to say to them, “Put the kettle on, I need a wee cuppa tea!”

When read without knowing these wonderful people, these stories do not explain a life in full or paint a detailed picture of achievements or successes. They are more than that. They show us that the person was truly real, truly known and will forever be alive in the recall of these tales.

And perhaps that is what remembrance really is, not preserving every fact but choosing the moments that allow life to be felt again, over and over bringing comfort and peace. And that is what I will continue to write for them.

Gillian Cummings

Here to help your families who don’t want a minister/priest led funeral service or a fully non-religious humanist service.

I offer a unique bespoke ceremony that includes anything your family desires.

Tel: 07825 093329

Gillian Cummings

Email: gillianecummings@hotmail.co.uk

Independent Funeral Celebrant FuneralTimes | 67

THE CASSEROLE SITUATION

By Mattie Lennon

T

he funeral of Miley Doyle was meant to be a quiet, dignified affair - a small gathering of neighbours and a few locals from around Templeboden. Miley was being buried where his great-grandparents had bought a grave in the early twentieth century, and the Priest, Father O’Shea, was from Miley’s own parish in an area known in the west of the county as “the backs o’ Wickla.” Father O’Shea had planned to retire in 1987, but here he was, still going strong to see Miley off.

By about three o’clock, however, things had gotten out of hand, becoming what a wellattired local woman, who considered herself “a step above buttermilk,” described as “a casserole situation.” When met with blank stares, she explained, “That means a lot of random or disparate elements thrown together - which is exactly what this is.”

Miley had been a taciturn man, speaking little in life, so no one expected him to cause trouble in death. They were wrong. The trouble started when the pallbearers, six nephews who hadn’t spoken to one another in years, attempted to carry the coffin to the hearse. Dinny, the lead pallbearer, slipped on some cow dung, and the coffin tilted. Miley lurched. Father O’Shea said, “Oh Lord,” which, to be fair, was at least on-brand.

The coffin was saved, barely, and placed in the hearse without further incident. Miley was then driven slowly across the Sally Gap to his final resting place. When the coffin was dropped beside the open grave with a thump, Maryjane, his sister, quietly but clearly said, “He always did like to make an entrance.”

68 | FuneralTimes

The eulogy, delivered by Hughie, Miley’s lifelong friend, was clearly prepared for about four minutes before he decided to wing the rest. He praised Miley’s loyalty and work ethic, then, somewhat forgetful of his spuds-andcabbage audience in west Wicklow, mentioned Miley’s chili. “Miley made a chili,” Hughie said, pausing for effect, “…that would make a grown man reconsider his choices.” Nobody laughed, but everyone nodded, a response arguably more powerful.

Things were almost complete when Miley’s faithful black and white collie, Cap, who was tied to a paling post several yards away, broke free and made a beeline for the coffin. He circled it twice, sniffed thoroughly, and lay down beside it with a groan that echoed almost to Sorrell Hill. Father O’Shea waited. Cap did not move. The priest decided to go around him.

Maryjane cried harder at that moment than she had all day.

After some discussion about a rumour in Miley’s parish contiguous to Callary Bog, where, it was said, that in the olden days, “the priest would ride around among his parishioners on horseback on Saturdays to announce the next day was Sunday”, the locals began to disperse. Miley’s parishioners headed for the Sally Gap, or so they intended. On the way home, someone turned the wrong way and led fourteen cars into a cornfield in Knockatillawn.

They sat there for a moment in a long, confused line. Then Dinny, from the first car, said, “Miley would have done the same thing.”

He would have, too.

Through our own personal experience we received the inspiration to set up Treasured Keepsakes, to give people a wide variety of options upon a loved one’s passing should they choose to keep a lock of hair, cremated remains, a piece of jewellery, a photograph or anything that is a personal reminder of their loved one in a small keepsake, keepsake pendant or urn.

Funeral directors we are currently working with have tailored our service to suit their needs. We have two options of how our service can work for you. If you wish you can buy our products from us at a wholesale price and sell them directly to your clients. Alternatively we can offer this service to your clients directly.

We would hope that by recommending our service we will enhance and add value to your business at no extra cost to you.

For more information contact us or visit our website Tel: 01 825 4579 From NI: 00353 1 825 4579 info@treasuredkeepsakes.ie www.treasuredkeepsakes.ie

Jennifer Muldowney is an International event planner for memorials based in the United States of America. Known as The Glam Reaper, Jennifer blends her extensive education in business, communications, and bereavement with a passion for modern memorial planning. As an award-winning memorial planner and speaker, she has made a significant international impact in the funeral space, advocating for personalised, and environmentally conscious funerals and digital legacies. Check out her Tedx Talk ‘Grief as Unique as your Heartbeat’ and ‘The Glam Reaper Podcast’ or Muldowney Memorials (.com) to learn more.

Jennifer Muldowney Ritual to Relevance: The Role of Clergy

70 70 || FuneralTimes FuneralTimes

I

reland has long been a country where ritual and religion shaped how we say goodbye. For generations, the structure of a funeral was largely understood. The church played a central role, clergy guided the ceremony, and the familiar rhythm of prayers and readings provided comfort in the face of loss. While many still hold deep respect for tradition, fewer people are engaging with religion in the same way they once did. Church attendance has declined, and a growing number of individuals identify as spiritual in their own way rather than formally religious.

And yet, when someone dies, people still gather. They still seek meaning. They still seek connection. They still want to honour the person they have lost. They still need the blueprint.

The difference now is that families are asking for something that feels more reflective of the individual life lived.

The challenge for clergy is not whether tradition still matters because it absolutely does, but how it can remain relevant in

a changing cultural landscape. At the heart of this shift is a simple truth: every life is unique. I have been preaching this for decades. The chances of any one of us being born as exactly who we are is extraordinarily small (1 in 4 trillion!) and yet historically, many funerals have followed very similar formats. While these structures offer comfort, they do not always capture the individuality of the person being remembered. This is where the role of clergy is evolving.

Rather than acting solely as guardians of ritual, clergy are increasingly becoming interpreters of meaning. They are being invited to incorporate personal stories, reflect individual personalities, and create ceremonies that resonate not only spiritually, but emotionally. This does not require abandoning tradition. In fact, some of the most powerful services are those that thoughtfully blend both. A familiar prayer alongside a personal story. A hymn alongside a favourite song. This approach allows families to feel both grounded and included. It also acknowledges a broader reality: people do not always

arrive at funerals with certainty in their beliefs. Some come with faith, others with questions, and many with a mixture of both. Meeting people where they are, rather than where we expect them or need them to be, has become one of the most important aspects of modern care.

Clergy today are often working in partnership with celebrants, funeral directors, and families themselves to co-create services. This collaborative approach reflects a shift away from a single authoritative voice toward a shared experience of remembrance. In many ways, this evolution is tradition, in its purpose.

Funeral rituals have always existed to support the living and honour the dead.

As society changes, so too must the way those rituals are expressed. The role of clergy remains vital. Perhaps now more than ever. Because in a time when belief is more varied, and grief is more openly expressed, there is still a deep need for guidance, compassion, and presence. The opportunity now is to accept change, and to engage with it thoughtfully and in community. Together is better.

FuneralTimes | 71

Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke

Let’s talk about blood pressure Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke’s annual blood pressure campaign aims to raise awareness of what is often known as The Silent Killer and encourages people to get their blood pressure checked as the condition rarely causes any physical symptoms.

Checking your blood pressure There are several ways to get your blood pressure checked. You can make an appointment with your GP practice, where a practice nurse may be able to take your blood pressure, or you can visit your local pharmacy, many of which offer blood pressure monitoring services. We recognise that it can be difficult for some people to get a GP appointment, so also encourage people to consider buying a home blood pressure monitoring machine if possible If your blood pressure is consistently showing over 140/90mmHg, we recommend you make an appointment with your GP for further tests.

If you experience any stroke or heart attack symptoms, always treat this as an emergency and call 999.

Top tips for a healthy blood pressure There are several changes you can make to your lifestyle to reduce high blood pressure and maintain a healthy level: 1. Reduce salt intake - Adults should eat no more than 6g of salt a day (approx. a teaspoonful). Read the labels on food packaging, choose foods lower in salt and try replacing salt with pepper, herbs and spices to add flavour.

2. Be more active - Move more and sit less!

Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity physical activity each week. Two days of strengthening exercises should also be included.

3. Maintain a healthy weight - Being overweight means your heart must work harder to do everyday tasks- this leads to high blood pressure. Maintaining a healthy weight involves a combination of eating a healthy diet and being more physically active.

72 | FuneralTimes

4. Limit alcohol intake - Drinking too much alcohol increases the risk of high blood pressure and can cause weight gain. We should drink no more than 14 units of alcohol per week, with several alcohol-free days. Men should have no more than 8 units and women no more than 6 units of alcohol per session.

5. Increase fruit and vegetable consumption - Fruit and vegetables contain vitamins and minerals, along with fibre which help to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and improve our heart health. We should aim for 5 portions a day which can be fresh, frozen, canned, dried or juiced.

For more information about blood pressure visit www.nichs.org.uk/highbloodpressure

The things nobody tells you about working in the Funeral Profession P eople often assume that working in the funeral profession means spending every day surrounded by grief and solemnity.

While supporting families through loss is undoubtedly at the heart of what we do, there is another side to this work that rarely gets talked about.

It’s the side filled with unexpected conversations, surprising moments of kindness and the occasional story that leaves us smiling long after the day is done.

After years of working alongside funeral directors and bereaved families, I’ve learned that life has a habit of showing up even in the places where people least expect it.

There are the families who arrive burdened with sadness but leave an arrangement meeting sharing stories and laughter about a loved one’s legendary dance moves, questionable fashion choices or inability to follow a recipe without adding their own twist.

In my own work, I often meet families at another difficult stage of the journey, when it comes time to clean, sort and organise a loved one’s belongings. It is a task many people dread. They imagine it will be purely heartbreaking.

Yet what often surprises them is how much life they find in the process.

A drawer becomes a treasure chest of old photographs. A wardrobe reveals outfits nobody can quite believe were ever fashionable. Boxes hidden away in attics uncover letters, holiday souvenirs and forgotten keepsakes that instantly transport families back to another time.

Sometimes the job slows to a standstill because someone has found an old photograph album and everyone ends up gathered around the kitchen table sharing stories instead of sorting belongings. And honestly, those are often the moments that

74 | FuneralTimes

matter most.

The truth is that our possessions tell stories. Not always the big important ones, but the small everyday details that make a person uniquely themselves. The collection of travel brochures they never threw away.

The carefully folded birthday cards. The handwritten shopping lists tucked into drawers.

Working in this profession has taught me that funerals and bereavement aren’t only about saying goodbye. They are also about remembering. They give us an opportunity to rediscover the people we love through the stories, memories and little pieces of life they leave behind.

It’s also a profession that constantly restores your faith in people. Every week I witness quiet acts of kindness that rarely make headlines. Neighbours helping neighbours, friends turning up with tea and sandwiches, relatives travelling long distances simply to lend a hand.

These gestures remind us that compassion remains one of the most powerful forces we have.

So while the funeral profession is often viewed through a lens of sadness, those of us privileged to work within it know there is another side.

Alongside the tears are stories. Alongside the grief are memories. Alongside the loss is laughter.

And sometimes, hidden away in the back of a drawer or at the bottom of an old cupboard, there is a reminder that a life isn’t measured by what someone owned, but by the memories they leave behind. I am so privileged to be asked to help and be involved.

Until next time,

Alana x

New Delivery

Robert Gabriel from Bandon, collecting his all new Superb hearse from Pierce Coachbuilders

Specialist

Cleaning

SPECIALIST CLEANING SERVICES FOR AFTER A DEATH

We understand sometimes the circumstances of a death can be unpleasant and very traumatic. Unfortunately this can also mean needing a specialist cleaning service.

You can now offer our specialist services within your arrangements.

Discreetly and respectfully we clean up all manner of incidents. specialistcleaningni.com | info@specialistcleaningni.com Tel: 07522 921299

Alana Gillen SC 128x93mm.indd 1

FuneralTimes | 75 28/09/2023 09:54

New Delivery - Quinn Hearse and Limousine

Ruairi and Gillian Gibney, of Oldcastle Co. Meath collect their new Mercedes 3 Door Hearse from Quinn Hearse and Limousine

GerryWreath McDermot Manufacturer Circular Road, Roscommon

Mob: 086 2544126 or Mob: 086 8205215 76 | FuneralTimes

Saif News Saif News SAIF maps out unified response to shifting regulatory landscapes across Scotland and Northern Ireland

L

eading Scottish members of the independent funeral profession gathered at the Anderson Maguire Colston Funeral Home on Thursday 28th May 2026 for the 119th General Meeting of SAIF Scotland and Northern Ireland. Led by SAIF Scotland President Ross Anderson, the meeting provided a vital forum for business owners to discuss the changing political climate, ongoing regulatory delays and new national campaigns designed to protect local family businesses.

Against a backdrop of major political change and fiscal pressures across the devolved UK nations, the turnout reflected a steely determination to ensure the independent sector retains a unified voice in the halls of power.

Navigating political headwinds and civil service cuts The operational update for Scotland, delivered by Declan Maguire on behalf of Joe Murren, highlighted a period of near-total stagnation in government activity due to recent elections. Most notably, work on the highly anticipated statutory funeral director licensing has ground to a halt.

This legislative lag is expected to be further compounded by the Scottish Government’s current financial situation. Independent funeral directors were briefed on the promotion of Ivan McKee to the Cabinet as Public Sector Reform Secretary, where he is tasked with plugging a staggering £5 billion black hole in public finances. With a sharp reduction in civil service headcount anticipated, there are widespread

concerns that the Burial and Cremation team housed within the stretched Health and Social Care department - will face resource cuts.

However, SAIF and the team continue to work together whilst the political unit works out its priorities.

Despite these civil service delays, there are signs of localised momentum. The meeting noted that the government has finally commenced the process of appointing inspectors. Additionally, the mass fatalities group has recently met to address pressing concerns regarding the time it is taking some operators to uplift deceased people from mortuaries, particularly in the West of Scotland.

Drawing a line on Funeral Support Payments

A

major point of operational frustration centred on the administration of the Scottish Funeral Support Payment. SAIF has once again issued strong representations to Barry Paterson at Social Security Scotland, expressing the deep frustration of independent firms regarding payments being made directly to claimants, alongside sudden instruction changes without prior notification to the funeral director.

Because resolving this systemic flaw requires

78 | FuneralTimes

a formal amendment to the Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018, the executive warned that the government lacks the incentive to act without firm pressure from the profession. In response, a growing number of SAIF members have taken a stand, refusing to take on this work without a large deposit or full payment in advance. This commercial pushback has been formally communicated to government ministers to illustrate the severe operational consequences if the situation escalates.

Looking to buy or sell your business?

SAIF Acquisitions is a brokerage service for SAIF members

TESTIMONIAL

We recently purchased the Philip Peppard Funeral Directors business and used SAIF Acquisitions to great effect as the SAIF Business Centre was able to effortlessly mediate between the vendor and ourselves.

Having heard that the vendor had received a lot of interest from other parties, we didn’t believe we would have the opportunity to acquire the business. However, SAIF’s due diligence, combined with our local knowledge, meant that we were able to establish a local relationship and thrash out the needs for both parties. , ZRXOG UHFRPPHQG DQ\RQH WKLQNLQJ RI VHOOLQJ WKHLU EXVLQHVV RU ORRNLQJ WR DFTXLUH D EXVLQHVV WR WXUQ WR 6$,) LQ WKH ŚUVW LQVWDQFH , ZRXOG UHFRPPHQG DQ\RQH WKLQNLQJ RI VHOOLQJ WKHLU EXVLQHVV RU ORRNLQJ WR DFTXLUH D EXVLQHVV WR WXUQ WR 6$,) LQ WKH ŚUVW LQVWDQFH It saves a lot of awkwardness around introductions and gives both parties a clear understanding of what is available.

Although our business model is very different to the funeral home we have purchased, we were able to talk face to face and give the vendor assurance that their legacy was in good hands, because we had shared values as SAIF members.”

Simon Helliar-Moore. Crescent Funeral Services in Somerset For more information, please contact Claire Day on 0345 230 6777 in the VWULFWHVW FRQŚGHQFH DQG ZLWK QR REOLJDWLRQ

We provide the introduction, you decide if the opportunity is right for you

Momentum builds at Stormont I n contrast to the legislative standstill in Scotland, Northern Ireland is experiencing a period of positive political engagement.

The recent Stormont AllParty Group on Funerals and Bereavement meeting, which was Joe Murren’s first as SAIF Stormont lead in Northern Ireland, officially backed a proposal submitted by Declan Maguire on behalf of the

new Funeral Regulation Task Group to establish a dedicated regulation sub-committee.

This will ensure that local independent firms have a seat at the table as statutory frameworks inevitably expand across the UK. The cross-border collaboration between the regions remains highly active, with Northern Ireland executive members Andrew

McClure and Ken Gilmore taking the lead, supported directly by Joe. The region’s strength continues to grow, with the Treasurer’s report confirming that SAIF now represents 145 funeral director members - comprising 120 in Scotland and 25 in Northern Ireland - with further membership applications pending.

Confronting online providers and mapping national regulation T he Glasgow meeting also welcomed National SAIF President Gary Staker, who outlined his core focus for the year ahead: continuing the robust defence of traditional independent firms against faceless online providers.

Central to this strategy is the Handed with Care campaign, which launched in early May with sponsorship from Golden Charter and Westerleigh.

Around 35 per cent of the membership has already adopted the digital campaign materials, which are explicitly designed to direct consumers to speak face-to-face with their local independent funeral director.

Looking towards the wider UK picture, SAIF Chief Executive Terry Tennens updated members on the regulatory pathway for England and Wales, where the Department of Health and

80 | FuneralTimes

Social Care (DHSC) is taking the lead. SAIF is actively pushing for a future regime that aligns cleanly with the standards already established in Scotland and emerging in Northern Ireland.

Commenting on SAIF’s overarching philosophy during this period of transition, Terry Tennens emphasised the critical role of structured representation: “The Funeral Regulation Task Group is a vital source of expertise and knowledge, and will play a key role in providing thought leadership and modelling with regard to the regulation of our sector. At SAIF, our aim is to ensure that we don’t overcorrect at the expense of the thousands of caring, professional independent businesses that serve their communities with distinction day in, day out.

“SAIF is represented on this

group by our Government Liaison Paul Allcock, who brings many years’ experience of working with authorities to shape regulation. We’re confident that by collaborating with sister associations, we can deliver an outcome that both protects the public from the tiny minority of rogue operators and enables good businesses to flourish.”

With planning already underway for the upcoming SAIF Scotland and Northern Ireland Education Day in Stirling this September featuring an interactive panel session and dedicated sector workshops - the message from the 119th General Meeting was clear: while political priorities and budgets may shift, the independent funeral profession remains completely focused on maintaining the highest standards of localised, dignified care.

GIVE FAMILIES COMPLETE CONFIDENCE IN THE QUALITY OF YOUR COFFINS

THE FFMA SCHEME

THE BENEFITS

A universally-recognised accreditation scheme, the Test Protocol, which is funeral industry recognised.

Your families can choose with complete

ffma.co.uk | chiefexec@ffma.co.uk | +44 (0)7803 562008 FuneralTimes | 81

New Delivery - Quinn Hearse and Limousine

Farquhar Macleod Funeral Directors of Skye add a new 214 Mercedes Hearse, complete with custom options including glass roof from Quinn Hearse and Limousine

ONLINE

Anatomy & Physiology, plus many more CPD courses available through our website

Mortuary Services & Training Specialists (BIE Accredited tutor, Cyril Gantley) Professional and very Competitive Repatriation Service.

Nationwide Collection and Embalming Service.

Daily Collections from Dublin Hospitals, Nursing Homes etc. (deceased can be then collected from our premises or delivered to your Funeral Home)

Fully Equipped Fleet of Private Ambulances Mercedes Saloon Type Limousine now available for hire Woodstock Ind. Est. Athy, Co. Kildare

086 0619500 059 8631541 085 7671582 www.mortuary-science.ie

82 | FuneralTimes

Still Refreshingly Different But now even stronger

Guidance and support for Independent Funeral Directors Golden Leaves has acquired Avalon — creating one of the UK’s most substantial funeral plan providers.

• 150,000 funeral plans under management • £325 million held securely in trust • A plan allocated every 10 minutes • A team of 120 people across the UK and Spain • Dedicated and personal relationship support • Founded by funeral directors, underpinned with funeral director expertise

More funerals. More support. More opportunity.

n of Fun ciatio era sso l

rs ecto Dir

Nation al A

Our refreshingly different relationship-led approach remains exactly the same — dedicated contacts, personal support, and a genuine partnership with independent funeral directors.

Contact malcolm.flanders@goldenleaves.com to find out more.

FS 686114

Golden Leaves Limited is a funeral plan provider and credit broker and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Firm Reference NumberFuneralTimes 960923.

| 83

NEWS... NEWS...

S Jim McCaughey Chair, Northern Ireland Kidney Research Fund

ince 1971, the Northern Ireland Kidney Research Fund has brought people together in support of kidney patients and research across Northern Ireland. What began with a small group of dedicated individuals has grown into a wonderful community that has raised over £10 million to support life-changing work.

2026 Belfast Marathon Our Biggest and Best Yet! W

hat an incredible day the 3rd of May 2026 was for the Northern Ireland Kidney Research Fund at this year’s Belfast Marathon.

We are delighted to share that 2026 was our biggest marathon event to date, with an amazing twelve relay teams and ten full marathon runners proudly wearing the yellow t-shirt, taking part in support of kidney research and awareness.

Our runners and supporters raised those vital funds that will help the Northern Ireland Kidney Research continue its important work – funding

life-saving research, increasing awareness of kidney disease, promoting organ donation and being the voice for public awareness of kidney disease and its consequences.

A huge thank you goes to our incredible runners, every person who donated, supported, encouraged, and cheered from the sidelines, your generosity and commitment have helped make this our largest fund-raising marathon campaign ever, and we are truly grateful.

Together, we continue to light the way for kidney research and organ donation.

Jeanie Martin, secretary of NIKRF with Nancy Brown from Portavogie who helped organise relay teams from her home town and Ballyhalbert

Robert Scott, Board Member of NIKRF is pictured with his nephews, Oliver McQuillan & Richard McQuillan (FT Ruth’s youngest son and husband!!)

84 | FuneralTimes

NEWS... NEWS...

Pictured are just a small number of our volunteers who helped organise or take part in the 2026 Belfast Marathon, raising vital funds to help the Northern Ireland Kidney Research continue its important work

FuneralTimes | 85

Classifieds... Classifieds...

For Sale 2017 FORD MONDEO (HEARSETTE)

For Sale 2020 SEAT ALHAMBRA

• NCT FEB 2027 • 113,529 Miles • Good condition • 3rd seat option • Carries 2 coffins/stretchers • Can be viewed close to Kildare Village

• 15800 miles • Immaculate throughout • Full electrics Price £18,500

For more information contact Derek Harris on (089 604 7647)

For more information contact Trevor at Logans Funeral Services 02825871443 or 07711874779

Price €6,500 (including VAT)

For Sale 2008 MERCEDES RCLASS 320 CDI L HEARSETTE • Fitted with Removable Z Fold Deck • Superb 4WD Family SUV/Removal Vehicle /Private Ambulance • With Air Suspension & Snow Tyres • Presented in a very good condition • Vehicle can be used as 7 Seater Family Car, complete with leather interior and ceiling mounted DVD player • Fitted with a Detachable Towbar and full 12 months MOT • 180k miles • In remarkable condition for a 15 year old car • Probably the most reliable, versatile and best presented 7 Seater RClass/ Removal Vehicle/Private Ambulance on the market today! £POA

For further information please contact: NI - 07774 419234 86 | FuneralTimes

Classifieds... Classifieds...

For Sale MERCEDES FIVE DOOR HEARSE

• Completed by Miesen Germany • 192 Registration • 19,000 miles • Hearse is as new inside and out • Full main Mercedes dealer history from new • Under deck drawer and pull out deck

€ PRICE ON APPLICATION Please contact: 00353 (0)87 9941833

Matthew L. Jones

FUNERAL REPATRIATION SERVICE

• South Wales based • 24 Hour removal & repatriation service • Long & short distance throughout UK & Ireland • Inclusive of airports & ferry ports • B.I.E qualified embalming service • Also Hearse & Limousine hire available

Mobile: 07815 866 652 Tel: 01267 236 787 (24hrs) email: info@funeralservices.wales www.funeralservices.wales

O’Neill’s Funeral Directors FOR SALE - 2018 MERCEDES-BENZ W213 E-CLASS FUNERAL FLEET

Well cared for fleet with full ceramic coatings & maintained with a full Mercedes-Benz service history from new • Hearse - 30,000 miles • Limousine - 13,000miles

• Built by Duffy Coachbodies • Black Ash interior trim • Panoramic glass roof (limousine) • Available in the coming weeks

£POA

Email: laurence@oneillsfuneraldirectors.co.uk or Tel: 028 90 620099 FuneralTimes | 87