The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland
2017 Vol.17 No.3
Illaunmanagh, Shannon, Co. Clare
The West of Ireland’s
Only Crematorium
NOW OPEN Tel: 065 671 3088 • Mob: 087 176 0001 Email: dara@shannoncrematorium.com
www.shannoncrematorium.com
Tu e O s3 ct rd ob , W er e 20 d 4 17 th
Avoid the queues register online today! www.funeraltimestradeshowireland.com
The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland
Shannon Crematorium Open Day................................. 8
Duffy's at the NFE.......................................................... 4
Contents
The Great and the Good of the IAFD.......................... 14
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 email: sales@funeraltimes.com
Irish visit the NFE........................................................4 New premises for Clarkes..........................................12 IAFD News................................................................14 PEAI News.................................................................19 Obituaries...................................................................20 BIE News...................................................................28 Finlay factory update.................................................31 Eulogica turns 20.......................................................32 Padraic Cawley on the sound of music......................40 Karl Wenzel talks infant embalming..........................44 All change at the BIFD .............................................49 Jennifer Muldowney hears the Banshee.....................52 NAFD News...............................................................54 Any place, any time, anywhere..................................60 Burial through time....................................................62 Songs of death and Bill Fanning by Mattie Lennon..65 SAIF News.................................................................67 Wilcox get Jaguar Land Rover Convertor approval...68 When tragedy strikes by Dr Bill Webster .................70 Classifieds..................................................................77
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
Irish turn out for NFE T
his years National Funeral Exhibition was held at Stoneleigh on June 16-18 and, as usual, the Irish turned out in force. Visitors arrived from Dublin, Belfast and Cork, and Ireland was well represented among exhibitors too with a number of stands from our leading firms. Vikki and Ruth from Funeral Times were there and captured this photographic record of the day. The Funeral Times Trade Show Ireland 2017 will take place at Citywest, Dublin on October 3rd and 4th this year will see a record number of stands with over 70 already booked!
Eamon Cassidy, Geert Triest and Isabelle Geeroms of Funeral Supplies Donegal
Gerard Duffy of Duffy Coachbodies Dundalk with his children Geoffrey and Jenny
William McGucken of CPL Funeral Supplies with Janette and Frank Lever from Chester, England
Mark Curtis, Lisa Kealy and Joe Daly with Ryan & Christopher Sheals of S. Sheals & Son, Co. Down
Make a statement on your final journey in this Hummer funeral hearse! (photo courtesy of Brian O’Driscoll)
4 | FuneralTimes
William Garvin, Andrew McMullan & Jordan Kennedy chat with Neil Baxter of Ecclesiastical
Hannah & Glen Baxter from North Down Funeral Directors with baby Daniel
Christopher Ginty, Clare Rooney and Thomas Corcoran with bespoke coffin seat from DJ MacNeice/Print-a-plate UK
Fearghas Quinn (Hearse and Limousines) enjoys a catch-up with Steve Pentith of Odlings MCR
Shane Finnegan stands in for his Dad, Declan, on the Lakelands Crematorium stand
Hugo McArdle with son James, from JJ McArdle Funeral Directors, Co. Armagh
Coleman Milne vehicles on display FuneralTimes | 5
David Wright of Eulogica Ltd. demonstrating their funeral software
Paul Wilcox is ably assisted by his daughters, Jade Webb & Leila Wilcox on the Wilcox Limousines stand
Bobby Farrelly chats with Adrienne Peers of Canfly Marketing
Some of the Cork contingent! (L-R) Henry Black, Michael O'Reilly, Eddie O'Keeffe and Robert Gabriel (photo courtesy of Brian O’Driscoll)
6 | FuneralTimes
Darryl Edgar and Aminah HessionSt. Juste from The Plume
Some of the woven coffins on display
Paddy Quinn of Fearghas Quinn Hearse & Limousines talks cars at The Plume stand
Damian Flynn, Creative Binding Solutions Ltd. Jenny Duffy & Ned Sweeney of Duffy Coachbodies are joined by Henry Black and Brian O’Driscoll
Some beautiful examples of Urns were on display at the show
Ben Walkling, Krzysztof Papierowski, Nathalie Martell, Fiona Greenwood and Mark Spooner of Rowland Brothers International
Cushty! There’s a funeral car for everyone!
Dan Svensson, Nick Stokes and Danny van der Sav working hard on the Eulogica stand FuneralTimes | 7
Grand opening for the Shannon Crematorium
T
he West of Ireland’s only crematorium, Shannon Crematorium, held a series of very popular public open days in Shannon on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, May 26th, 27th and 28th. Over 2,000 people attended the public open day on Sunday the 28th to see the new development. They were welcomed by the management and staff and given a full tour of the whole development, where every question was answered to satisfy the most curious of minds. People were encouraged to stroll around the memorial gardens and peruse the memorial wall and then relax in the hospitality suite for refreshments. Saturday the 27th was reserved for Funeral Directors and EIIS investors with over 250 people attending to see the new development that they may use in the future and for the investors, to see the finished product they had invested in. Both groups seemed delighted with the results. The crematorium was formally opened by Dr Michael Harty TD. who was enthusiastic in his praise for the development as he outlined the benefits for the people of the West of Ireland. It will offer an alternative to the people of the West of Ireland to travelling long distances to Dublin or Cork to avail of cremation services. Shannon Crematorium is situated in a
8 | FuneralTimes
tranquil setting on the banks of the river Shannon, beside Illaunamanagh Cemetery in Shannon, Co Clare. Construction of the first crematorium in the West of Ireland got underway in July 2016 and was completed in May 2017. The new crematorium is one of the most environmentally friendly in Europe, with the building achieving an A2 rating. Europe’s leading cremation equipment suppliers, Dutch company DFW Europe supplied and installed the cremator unit and filtration system. The DFW 6000 is the most modern, highly energy efficient cremator which has the lowest carbon footprint of any competing crematoria equipment. The crematorium comprises of a congregation space which will seat 140 people and a secondary congregation space for smaller more intimate services which will seat 60 people. This secondary congregation space may also be used as a hospitality suite where people can meet after a service and have time to talk and have refreshments. The hospitality suite was showcased over the open days where people could choose from a selection of food and refreshments. Shannon Crematorium allows forty five minutes for each service to ensure that the family have enough time to hold a personal, dignified event. Additional time can be booked
The new crematorium opened its doors to the public in May 2017
if required or if people wish to use the hospitality suite. The type of funeral service and the manner in which it is conducted are a matter of personal choice and the crematorium has been designed to cater for people of all beliefs and faiths.
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Clarke’s new premises By Mattie Lennon
C
larke’s Funeral Directors was established in 1945 by Michael Clarke. It was always a familyrun business. It is now managed by Tony, Regina and Gordon. Three generations have run the business from Main Street, Blessington. It has now moved to a new state-of-the-art premises at Burgage Mor, just outside the town. The new facility offers a large car park and inside provides a relaxing foyer, two funeral viewing rooms, family reception room, offices, kitchen and display room, all of which come with ancillary requirements. The new funeral home is a place for family and friends to gather together to support each other and reminisce as well as facilitating the opportunity to celebrate the life and accomplishments of a loved one. It is also a chance to say goodbye. Clarke Funeral Directors offer a highly professional and personal 24 hour service to bereaved families in the West Wicklow, Dublin and Kildare areas. They provide a complete funeral service with care, compassion and assistance to minimize distress to the bereaved. Their service is conducted in a sensitive, dignified and efficient manner. When bereavement occurs with the death of a loved one, family or friend, having to arrange a funeral can be a big undertaking. One of the main aims of the Clarke family is to work with the bereaved to organize a funeral in a calm, organized and dignified manner. They work hard to carry out all arrangements in a stress free manner tailored to each family’s individual requirements. In addition to religious services, Clarke’s Funeral Directors can also cater for non-denominational,
12 | FuneralTimes
humanist, and civil ceremonies. When the ribbon was cut by Regina and Gordon Clarke, with giant ceremonial scissors, Clergy of several denominations, people who had availed of Clarkes’ services in their time of bereavement, and local dignitaries listened on together as present head of the dynasty Tony Clarke, in a witty and word-perfect speech, thanked all who had been involved in the project. It seemed like the list was endless. Names rolled off Tony’s tongue without reference to notes. (Or as one local wag said, ”without the aid of ropes or pulleys.”) As the large crowd dispersed, after copious refreshments, Gordon Clarke took custody of the large ceremonial scissors. No doubt they will be eventually passed on to the fourth generation of Clarke undertakers.
WD Carriages offer a professional service, hiring horse drawn carriages for all occasions
M: 07891 347356 / M: 07706 016359 E: wdcarriages@hotmail.co.uk FuneralTimes | 13
Irish Association of Funeral Directors Promoting Excellence in Funeral Service
IAFD News
Past President’s Dinner
Former presidents of the IAFD along with current president John Foley and IAFD solicitor Philip O Sullivan
A
n inaugural gathering of past IAFD Presidents was held in Killeshin Hotel, Portlaoise on the 25th May. The idea was originally suggested by John Thompson, Waterford and Gerard Clarke, Sligo took up the baton and arranged the evening. It proved to be a very enjoyable night and a way of sharing experience and advice, maintaining relationships and remembering the fond memories of those who have passed on and are no longer with us. Hopefully it will become a regular event and something to look forward to by all who had the distinction of serving as President.
IAFD Membership and Excellence Committee “Think Tank” A Think Tank/Brainstorming event will be held in September with the aim to invite members to give feedback on how the IAFD can continually improve for its members and assist with challenges they may face. One of the major functions of the Membership and Excellence Committee is to maintain and create member benefits. Over the years several new benefits have been introduced. The committee is actively endeavouring to increase member 14 | FuneralTimes
benefits and with this in mind the event in September has been arranged to provide an opportunity for the Membership to contribute to this process. Hopefully the “Think Tank” meeting will result in many positive ideas. But we need members to attend and participate. If you are interested in contributing please contact Membership and Excellence Chairperson, Robert Fanagan, robert@ fanagans.ie
Irish Association of Funeral Directors Promoting Excellence in Funeral Service
IAFD News
Regional Meeting Workshops D
uring the past year the Education Committee has arranged training seminars for members which coincided with Regional meetings. These seminars were on Health and Safety and were delivered by a company called FPPI. By the time you receive this copy of the Funeral Times a seminar on the business aspect of funeral services will have been delivered at our Regional meeting in the Horse and Jockey on 22nd June last. This seminar was presented by a qualified accountant with experience in the funeral
sector and covered all areas of financial management of a funeral business. At our next Regional meeting which will be held in Dundalk on 21st September a presentation will be given on Repatriation both inwards and outwards. This will be delivered by a member of one of the leading firms in Ireland on this subject. It is the aim of the President and the Board of this Association to deliver as much education to members by way of the seminars as outlined and also by guest speakers at the Regional meetings.
Funeral Directing Certificate Award Course A new education course for members only and their employees is to be launched in September next; the “Funeral Directing Certificate Award”. The course will feature a combination of classroom and practical based learning with industry experts on Funeral Business costs, payments, dealing with solicitors, conducting a funeral, presentation i.e. coffin,
wake house/funeral home presentation. Award of the certificate will be based on skills demonstrations and submission of funeral case studies. Further information/developments regarding this can be got via the Programme Co-ordinator, Joanne Cooney at joanne@ cooneysfuneralhome.com
Why Join the IAFD? For just a little more than €1cent a day you get: • Professional Indemnity Insurance
• Code of Practice
• Membership of professional organisation recognised by the general public
• Access to IAFD Education Programme • Excellence Programme
• Unique all island network of funeral directors • Representation of members with Government, Local Authorities and Media • Funeral Directors led organisation for promoting and developing standards of funeral service
• Board of Funeral professionals available to assist Members • Dispute Resolution and Mediation • Legal Advisory Service • Links to other trade Associations FuneralTimes | 15
Irish Association of Funeral Directors Promoting Excellence in Funeral Service
IAFD News
John Foley (President) Jennings Funeral Directors 81 Amien Street Dublin 1 Ph: 01-8555511 Mary Cunniffe (First Vice President) Massey Bros Funeral Home Templeogue Village, Dublin 6W Mobile: 085-8010742, Ph: 014-907601 Email: mary.cunniffe@hotmail.com Gerard Clarke (Immediate Past President) Gerard Clarke & Sons Funeral Home Main Street, Balisodare, Sligo Ph: 071-9130700 Mobile: 087-2565310 Email: gerardclarkeandsons@eircom.net Edwina Fitzgerald (Hon. Secretary) Fitzgerald Funeral Directors Channel Road Rush Co. Dublin Ph: 01-8438772 Email: fitzgeraldfuneraldirectors@gmail.com Dermot McCarthy (Hon. Treasurer) McCarthy’s Funeral Home Gurrane, Banteer, Cork. Ph: 029-56044 Email: dermot@mccarthyfuneraldirectors.com
Colm Kieran (P.R.O.) Kieran Bros. Funeral Directors Kingscourt, Co. Cavan. Mobile: 087-6218740, Ph: 042-9667309 Email: colmkieran@gmail.com Michael Crowley (Chair – Education Committee – with G. Clarke) Crowley Funeral Directors Bothar Saclay, Ballincollig, Co. Cork. Phone: 021 4874777 Email: info@crowleyfuneraldirectors.ie Robert Fanagan (Chair - Membership & Excellence Committee) Fanagans 54 Aungier Street Dublin 2 Ph: 01 475 4101 Email: info@fanagans.ie Andre Thompson Thompson Funeral Directors 19 Barrack Street Waterford Co. Waterford Ph: 051-874159 Email: info@thompsonfunerals.ie Irish Association of Funeral Directors Promoting Excellence in Funeral Service
Diary Dates 2017 Thursday 21st September Dundalk Crown Plaza Hotel, Dundalk Workshop 2pm / Regional Meeting 5pm Applications for membership of IAFD: Please visit www.iafd.ie and download an Application Form. 16 | FuneralTimes
tailor-made solutions to the funeral trade
Funeral Supplies Donegal Ltd. We manufacture and supply: Ĝ ȱȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ (fall over) Ĝ ȱȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ (elastic/tape, black/green/purple) eco friendly linings ǻ Ĵȱ ȱǭȱ Ǽ lid linings shrouds mountings
Funeral Supplies Donegal Ltd. Leghowney Donegal Town Co. Donegal Ireland Tel: +353(0)74 9723715 Fax: +353 (0)74 9723742 Mobile: +353 (0)87 2376169 www.funeralsupplies.ie funeralsupplies@eircom.net
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
FuneralTimes | 19
Obituaries Tribute to Brendan Ritchie M
onday June 5th 2017 was a bleak day for the staff of John Smith Funeral Directors, Portaferry, Co. Down, as they were informed of the death of esteemed colleague and friend, Brendan Ritchie, following a short illness. Brendan’s service to John Smith Funeral Directors over the past 40 years was one of absolute commitment and loyalty. The Smith family and all associated with the firm extend their heartfelt sympathy to Ella and the Ritchie family circle and assure them of their support during this difficult time, echoing the family in commending the extremely kind, friendly, dignified and professional care Brendan received in Ulster Hospital, and in particular, The Macdermott Unit, during his treatment for cancer.
Sarah (Lee-Anne) Reid
F
riends and colleagues throughout the funeral profession in Ireland were saddened to hear of the death of Sarah (Lee-Anne) Reid, daughter of Anne and Bill Reid of Douglas Funeral Directors, Ballynahinch, Co. Down and Ronnie Thompson Funeral Directors, Lisburn, Co. Antrim. Lee-Anne was 20 years old and died while on holiday in Croatia in May. She was a much loved sister of Christy, Douglas and Petra.
Chris Wray
M
any people in the funeral profession and beyond were shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Chris Wray. Chris was central to the growth of his family business with offices in Belfast and Antrim and died after a short illness in May. Wife Violet and children Jonathan, Nicola, David and Niall are all involved in the family business. If you know of anyone from the funeral profession in Ireland who has passed away, please let us know on: editorial@funeraltimes.com
20 | FuneralTimes
# F Q H Lr e v e a l
QUAL IT Y COACHBU IL D E R S
T: +44 (0)28 2582 2525 E: fearghas@fearghasquinn.com www.fearghasquinn.com
Braemar Finance turns 25 B
raemar Finance is proud to announce that on 30 June it celebrates its 25th anniversary. The business was founded in 1992 by Managing Director and founding partner, David Foster, who grew the business into one of the premier providers of finance for the professions in the UK before being acquired by Close Brothers in 2000. “We are one of the few funders to the professions that have demonstrated this level of longevity and commitment to businesses and individuals in the professions sector,” said David Foster, Managing Director of Braemar Finance. “While much has changed since 1992, our business model has remained consistent and simple. “We focus on building strong and lasting relationships with our customers, and have become known as a lender that continues
to provide funding through all economic cycles. Our understanding of our industry and the sectors we work in allows us to be confident in business owners and the value of the assets they utilise. “Our team’s level of industry knowledge is unmatched and is key in helping our customers understand the value of their investment. “I would also like to thank our customers and suppliers for their continued support over the last 25 years, many of whom have been with us for much of the journey, for their continued support over the last 25 years – long may that continue.”
A new delivery from Fearghas Quinn Sean Condon, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, takes delivery of a new Buick hearse from Fearghas Quinn of Fearghas Quinn Hearse & Limousines 22 | FuneralTimes
Finance designed to help your business /RRNLQJ IRU D WDLORU PDGH VROXWLRQ WR ðW WKH QHHGV RI \RXU EXVLQHVV" We can fund items ranging from; equipment, IT VMMPJL ZVS\[PVUZ YLM\YIPZOTLU[Z [V I\ZPULZZ vehicles, hearses and limousines incorporating balloon payments, where necessary. Our bespoke facilities and fast lending decisions JHU HZZPZ[ ^P[O `V\Y ÄUHUJL YLX\PYLTLU[Z HSSV^PUN `V\ to concentrate on the day to day activities that your business demands.
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Gail Cormack – Northern Ireland
0867 727 552
01563 852 100
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Close Brothers Limited (being a UK registered private limited company and its Irish registered branch of the same name having registration number 907899), trading as (and having as registered business names) Close Brothers Asset Finance, Close Brothers Commercial Finance, Close Brothers Premium Finance, Close Brothers Motor Finance and Braemar Finance, is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority in the United Kingdom and is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority in the United Kingdom and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. UK registered address: 10 Crown Place, London, EC2A 4FT, registered at Companies House, Number 00195626. Directors: M. Morgan (UK), P. Prebensen (UK), P.S.S Macpherson (UK), A. Sainsbury (UK), S. Bishop (UK), F. Pennal (UK), M. Hook (UK) and J. Howell (UK).
One-stop shop for all your graveside needs! When people visit a grave, either at the funeral or later, it is important that they see quality products designed to last in the Irish climate. DJ Mac Neice & Co. has a long history of supplying a full range of products ideal for all your graveside needs.
T
he graveside is the final part of the funeral, but by no means the least important. It’s the last time the family will see the coffin or casket containing the remains of their loved ones. It’s also the site they will return to time and time again, especially in the immediate days following the funeral. This makes it all the more important to have high quality products you can depend on. Here at DJ Mac Neice we have everything you need for the graveside. Our range of coffin and casket pads is designed specifically for Irish burials. These heavy weight pads come in black and purple, with or without cross motif. They also have elasticated straps to fit them tightly to the coffin or casket so you know that they will stay securely in place. Whether there is a headstone in place or not, we have the product to suit your needs. Our grave markers are the perfect option for a new grave awaiting a headstone. We offer two types of wood; the traditional oak or paulownia which is a light weight wood but no less sturdy or long lasting then oak. Both options have a plate big enough to fit an 8x6 breastplate. Similarly if there is a headstone in place our grave spikes are the perfect way to mark the grave until an inscription can be made on the headstone. Our solid oak grave spikes come in two sizes; 8x6 and 4x2. Both of the sizes have a self-adhesive pad which you can stick your breast plate to, removing the need for hammer and panel pins. The self-adhesive pad also means that a 6x4 rectangle or oval plate can be used on the
24 | FuneralTimes
4x2 grave spike. We also have the option of providing a white grave marker and spike when you have the unfortunate task of marking the grave of a child. We stock a large range of breast plates all of which are suitable to be used on our grave markers and grave spikes. They are also suitable to use on coffins, caskets and ashes caskets. We do a variety of sizes and colours, all of which are available in bordered and black edged styles. There is also the option of the material type you require, metal or plastic, both of which are suitable for engraving. For times when you do need to nail a plate on, all our plates have pre drilled holes to make the job that bit easier. We also stock a range of panel pins and conical nails in a variety of colour and sizes. DJ Mac Neice continues a long history in the funeral industry during which the aim has always stayed the same- to provide products of the highest quality at a competitive price while delivering excellent customer service. We look forward to doing business with you in the future. DJ Mac Neice & Co. Ltd, 37a Barrow Road, Dublin Industrial Estate, Glasnevin, Dublin 11. T:01-8828731 Email: sales@djmacneice.com Web: www.djmacneice.com
Finest quality grave markers
7H 7HKZ HUK WSH[LZ [V Z\P[ HSS HUK JVM³UZ HUK JHZRL[Z Pads and plates to suit all coffins and caskets
Coleman Milne Northern Ireland and Scotland: Tony Kerr 07860 586850 Coleman Milne Sales Manager: Graham Clow 07860 380450
Byrne Coachbuilders Ltd Coes Road, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Republic of Ireland Office: +353 42 933 4631
Sales Manager: Joe Leech +353 86 604 1227 Managing Director: Peadar Byrne +353 85 101 8385
List of BIE Officers and appointed representatives for 2016/2017 National President: Gwen Schofield Imm. Past President: Mr Craig Caldwell (North American Division) National PRO & National General Secretary: Mrs Karen Caney FBIE White Meadow Cottage, Brailsford, Derby DE6 3DA Tel: 01332 349035(BIE) Mobile: 07786 432014 karencaney@btopenworld.com National Treasurer: Michael Liddle MBIE 10 Yew Tree Close, Silsoe MK45 4EQ Business Tel: 01582 490005 Home Tel: 01525 860117 michael@silsloe.wanadoo.co.uk Editor: Gwen Schofield MBIE 9 Seymour Walk, Meltham, Holmfirth HD9 4BP Home Tel: 01484 851994 Mobile: 07778 279100 gwen.schofield@ntlworld.com Master Fellow: Ken Morgan FBIE “Evergreens”, 36 Coley Road, Little Haywood, Stafford ST18 0UW Home Tel: 01889 881223 Business Tel: 01902 878425 Mobile: 07970 831760 k.m.morgan@virgin.net Student Liaison Officer: Timothy Cain MBIE Hillcrest, 38 Main Street, Ashby de la Launde LN4 3JG Home Tel: 01526 321396 jackie@lymn.co.uk 28 | FuneralTimes
IRISH DIVISION Chairman Mr.Cyril Gantley MBIE 336 Kildare Road, Crumlin, Dublin 12 Mobile:00353 857671582 cyril.gantley@mortuary-science.ie Vice Chairman Mr.Shane Casey MBIE Gortnabinna, Ballingeary, Macroom, Co.Cork. Mobile: 00353 860744117 info@caseyfunerals.ie Secretary Susan Moran MBIE Maydown House, Aughraboura, Athy, Co.Kildare. Mobile: 00353 860619500 moransfuneralservices@gmail.com National Council Rep Mr.John Hawe MBIE 12 Meadow Vale, Smith’s Road, Charleville, Co.Cork Mobile: 00353 876390087 jmhawe@eircom.net 2nd National Council Rep and Educational Rep Pamela Murphy MBIE 14 Parknasillogue Court, Enniskerry, Co.Wicklow Mobile:00353 857415421 Treasurer Mrs Anna O’Reilly MBIE Church Street, Newmarket, Co.Cork Tel:02960142 annaoreilly4@hotmail.com
NORTHERN IRELAND DIVISION Chairman Laurence O'Neill 98 Stewartstown Road Belfast BT11 9JP Tele: 028 90 620099 Email: oneill8210@hotmail.com Treasurer Andrew McMullan MBIE 22 High Street, Ballymoney, Co. Antrim BT53 6AQ Andrew@mcmullanfuneral.com 1st National Council Representative Ellison Sloan MBIE Telephone: 02838 336175 poots@fsni.info 2nd National Council Representative Laurence O'Neill 98 Stewartstown Road Belfast BT11 9JP Tele: 028 90 620099 Email: oneill8210@hotmail.com 1st National Educational Committee Representative Pat Harley MBIE 67 Creggan Road, Londonderry BT48 9DA Mobile: 077128 99137
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Memorial-Printing.com Quality personalised memorial products • Memorial Cards • Wallet Cards • Bookmarks • Acknowledgement Cards • Order of Service booklets
You don’t have to take our word for it Just go to: http://www.memorial-printing.com/testimonials
and see what our customers think Give us a call to discuss how we can work with you on 028 3835 5060 (048 from RoI) FuneralTimes | 29
Excellence in Funeral Products and Services Choice, Quality & Value Premium Quality. Unique features and solid craftsmanship are guaranteed when choosing genuine Finlay products. For full details of our range of products and services, please visit our website: www.finlaygrp.com
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Finlay new factory update D
uring June we are completing the move of our factory operations to our new site with the relocation of our warehouse and dispatch team members and functions from the original site at Tierney Street to the new site at Kells Road, Ardee. This will see all manufacturing, spraying, warehouse and dispatch operations under one roof for the first time in over three years. The move has been carried out at weekends and outside hours to avoid any disruption to production. We will continue to hold stocks at Tierney Street after the process move so we would ask all customers to please note that for collections during July and August we ask that you check with us before arriving to confirm which address you should come to for your collection. On behalf of all the Finlay team and myself thank you to all our customers for all of your patience and understanding. Colman Finlay
Tallon Mortuary Specialists Professional, Confidential and Caring Services
School of Embalming Qualify for membership of an internationally recognised embalming qualification (BIE) at your own pace • The ‘Tallon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming’ offers students and registered embalmers the highest standards of teaching and practice in a supportive environment, with full use of our training facility. • We offer both Distance Learning and attended courses leading to membership of the British Institute of Embalmers For further information and to discuss how this course might work for you please contact us:
Glyn Tallon - 14 Academy Street, Navan, Co. Meath Tel: 086 826 8876 / Fax: 046 903 6001 Web: www.tallonmortuaryspecialists.com Email: info@tallonmortuaryspecialists.com FuneralTimes | 31
Celebrating with Eulogica A small business is growing up: We are celebrating - and what a great 20 years it has been!
T
he Eulogica business is turning 20! For two full decades, we have been passionate about funeral software, and to this day we have no other interests than crafting the best possible tools for funeral directors. How did this remarkable story develop? A long time ago, in the mid-1990s, two young Norwegians were trying to set up shop in the software industry. Somewhat randomly, they got talking to a few forwardthinking funeral directors. It looked like the funeral profession could use computer software to become more efficient. However, in hindsight, that was probably not the main point... Funeral directors care a lot about the families they serve, and are often perfectionists who hate making mistakes. Errors in communication can cause painful complications to what is already a difficult situation for many families. Even a small spelling mistake is considered an embarrassment that needs fixing at any cost. Computer software, if it is well-made, can help ensure the desired accuracy. The first of the companies that now make up the Eulogica group was officially registered in April 1997. The 20 years that have passed, can be roughly divided into three periods of 6-7 years each: For the first 7 or so years, our only focus was on making the best possible software for Norwegian funeral homes. That took a while, but the efforts were successful: By 2004, most funerals in Norway were passing through the software. The whole country
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was enjoying a new level of quality and efficiency in funeral management. We must have done something right! At the time, it was hard to see much potential for developing the business further where it was. There was not much demand for further technical improvements. Our many ideas for new software features were met with shaking heads, for the most part. In 2004, tablet computing was still the
stuff of science fiction. 3G mobile networks were just about to arrive, while the iPhone – the first proper smartphone - would not appear for another three years. For a short time in 2004, our funeral software had more users than Facebook – as the latter was just starting up. We felt we were facing a choice at that time: Either move into other industries, or stay with the funeral profession while just covering a bigger area. (A third option – just aiming to preserve the status quo, was never really on the table. We were young and energetic, not to mention that in the fast-moving world of technology, stagnation often leads quickly to failure.) After a bit of analysis and soul-searching, we decided to work with what we knew – to remain committed to the funeral profession, but to aim to cover a few more countries, notably the UK. The next 7 or so years could perhaps be called an age of expansion – it was an adventurous time when we set up offices and started delivering our funeral software to new places: UK, Sweden, Ireland and eventually the Netherlands. It was clear that if we were to succeed beyond Scandinavia, the software would have to become far more advanced after all. The Eulogica brand was born at this time, along with our new philosophy: (Every funeral is unique). We developed our software to become flexible to the extreme – every funeral company could get their own tailor-made Eulogica software installation, ready to grow and adapt further with their own ambitions. The message was - and still is - that we adapt the software to the funeral home, not the other way around.
Barry Albin-Dyer
This was also the time when the late Barry Albin-Dyer became an unofficial ambassador for Eulogica. Barry was the ultimate London undertaker, with his top hat and frock-coat, cane and a keen eye for detail. He was also a celebrity, having written books, organised high-profile funerals and even appeared in a British TV series. Barry was also for a while president of the international Funeral Directors’ Association (FIAT-IFTA). It was an unlikely relationship: Barry did not like computers much, but he was interested in new ideas and had lots of suggestions for Eulogica. His business, F. A. Albin & Sons – fiercely independent like ours - became an important reference and was visited by people from near and far to see, among other things, the software. Barry was generous with his time and appeared as a Eulogica guest and speaker at meetings and events. He opened doors for Eulogica in multiple countries, and influenced our products and philosophy greatly. It was with sadness we received the news that Barry succumbed to cancer in 2015. For the last few years, the Eulogica business has yet again entered a new phase. We are no longer expanding to new places – 5 countries is likely to be enough for a long time. Instead, we are reinventing our technology. The new wave of mobile computing has been welcomed by funeral directors, who have always needed to be mobile. Funeral directing is not an office job. Eulogica needs to adapt to and ideally lead this trend – which is why we are now launching Eulogica 7. This is not just a new version – rather, our software has been fundamentally rebuilt around the concept of mobile computing and (touch) operation. There is far more investment going into E7 FuneralTimes | 33
than any earlier upgrade to Eulogica. Ten of our twenty staff members are now programmers. We expect for the team to spend some 30,000 hours preparing the product, which also includes a new database engine, new reporting engine, and more. Other important technical projects now include the Eulogica app for use on smartphones, Eulogica Cloud for central computing and storage, and the Eulogica API which allows for flexible integrations. The API opens the door for connecting Eulogica with not just one or two other systems, but with any website, app or other system that a funeral business is interested in. What will the future hold? Computing will become more mobile and personal still, with smart watches, even smarter phones, and cars and buildings connected to the internet. We will certainly explore these trends and tweak our products as required.
Also, Funeral Directors increasingly wish to place software directly in front of bereaved families - whether it is on a tablet, on a desk screen, or on a big wall display – not to mention on the web. This requires that we understand and adapt even more to the interaction between the funeral home and their customers. One thing is certain: We will never be a competitor to our clients. While we work closely with funeral homes (and 4 of our staff have a background as Funeral Directors), the Eulogica business is independent. In no way is it owned or controlled by any funeral company. It is fundamental that Funeral Directors know they can discuss the innermost details of their business with us, and trust us with their confidential data at all times. It has been an exciting journey, but at 20 years of age, we have just about grown up. For the next 20 years, we hope to learn and to contribute even more!
New delivery for Shevlins R. Gibney of Gibneys of Oldcastle Funeral Directors, collects his new hearse from Fearghas Shevlins, Dundalk, Co. Louth take delivery of their new E Class hearse from Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousines. Quinn Hearse & Limousines 34 | FuneralTimes
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50 years of trust as E Hill & Son take New Norwood and Rosedale
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oyal Coleman Milne customers E Hill & Son have taken delivery of a Norwood Classic Hearse and Rosedale Limousine. The family run funeral directors have been trusting Coleman Milne for their funeral fleet for 50 years. Edwin Hill started the company in 1960 after first training as a carpenter and in 1967 took delivery of his first Coleman Milne cars; a Ford Zephyr and Zodiac. Edwin’s son Richard now runs the company with his wife Paula and told us “The Zephyr and Zodiac were very modern for their time”. Edwin was so proud of his first fleet of Fords that he arranged for photographs to be taken in a local showroom. Edwin, along with his wife Roslyn, established the funeral directors as a caring pillar of the community; they worked tirelessly to provide much needed services, not limited to funerals. Edwin would offer driving lessons, private vehicle hire, and even chauffeured children to and from school. He was a much loved and respected member of the community.
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Richard and Paula have taken the company from strength to strength and expanded their team of dedicated and qualified funeral directors. Over the years E Hill & Son have ensured that their fleet is regularly updated to maintain standards. In coming back to Coleman Milne they know they are getting the best for themselves and their clients. The Norwood Classic Hearse features additional LED coffin lights to flood the coffin area. The hearse allows comfort and grace for the coffin bearers with 4 large doors and the streamlined wreath rail allows for personalised adornments without compromising aerodynamics. With comfort as standard, the Rosewood limousine offers class-leading passenger space and leather upholstery. The stylish exterior has been designed and built in house with great attention to detail. We would like to congratulate E Hill & Son on their new fleet and thank them for their continued support.
New Hearse for Hartley D
enis Hartley & Son, established funeral directors for Colne, have taken delivery of a new Norwood Classic Hearse. The stylish new vehicle is the latest addition to the Hartley fleet and this is their second vehicle from Coleman Milne. The family run funeral directors have over 50 years of experience in providing care and support for their community; Denis Hartley first learned the ropes as an undertaker in 1959 before founding his own business in 1972. Denis’ son Shaun joined his father in the business and since his father’s passing in 2001 Shaun and his wife Susan have driven the business from strength to strength. Laura-Beth joined the family business in 2010 and became company director in 2016. Such longevity is testament to the professionalism and care they put into their work. The high specification model boasts
LED coffin illumination lights and a glass roof which allows for natural light to flood the coffin area, while the stylish leather Laura-Beth Johnson, Mr interior and air Shaun Hartley, Coleman conditioning Milne’s Eddie Marsden and ensures driver Mrs Susan Hartley comfort. Denis Hartley & Son have peaceful premises which offers a reception area, modern chapel of rest and private family viewing room, providing bereaved families a cosy and intimate atmosphere to pay their last respects and say farewell to their loved ones.
Martin Rankin Funeral Directors take stylish trio M
artin Rankin has returned to Coleman Milne for his new fleet of a Norwood Classic Hearse and two Rosedale Limousines. Coleman Milne’s Tony Kerr delivered the vehicles to the established funeral directors who specifically selected the Tanzanite Blue for his new vehicles and tells us his customers have spoken favourably about this smart alternative to the traditional black. All of the vehicles in the Coleman Milne range undergo a specialist paint process whereby the vehicles are coated twice to ensure durability. The aerodynamic wreath rails allow for additional adornments without detracting from the vehicles performance, the Norwood also boasting high quality specification including LED lighting and illuminated signs. The full leather upholstery in the Rosedale Limousines offers dignified
Martin Rankin and Tony Kerr comfort to passengers and the driver. Martin Rankin has over 20 years of experience serving the bereaved in the Whickham and wider North East area, and over the past 10 years has established his own business with a reputation of care and understanding during what is a most difficult time. FuneralTimes | 39
Music to our ears... “Music is the gateway to the soul. Music is the flame, which lightens the soul. Music is food for the heart and soul. Music is the wine that fills the cup of silence.”
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ecently I was asked to compere a charity music evening which was held in a Catholic Church in Dublin in aid of Debra Ireland. As a Civil Funeral Celebrant, I was definitely outside my comfort zone speaking in a Church! But working with professional musicians and singers, a musical director, along with lighting and sound engineers, made the task a little easier. Many nights of practice made sure that the concert ran smoothly and without a hitch. It was a lovely evening of music, song, and reflection.
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The theme for the evening was ‘In This Very Room’ where there’s quite enough Love, Joy, Hope, and Power to chase away any gloom. The selection of music played that night, both spiritual and secular, offered hope and comfort to all, no matter where they found themselves in their lives. It struck me how easily the spiritual and secular songs worked side by side, and while the words of hymns are of a religious nature, some of the secular lyrics were also quite powerful. Over the years I have listened to
all types of songs being played at funerals that I have led. Sometimes the lyrics have more impact if they are read rather than played. There are hundreds if not thousands of combinations that can be made from musical notes. These notes can be combined in fascinating ways to create wonderful harmonies and melodies. Some music seems to energize you, some music can move you to tears or spark a special memory of a time, place, or perhaps a certain person. Some music seems to make you relax, feel less stressed, and feel happier. And some music fills us with deep spiritual attunement. No matter what our colour, creed or politics, or how we express our love or faith, music proves that we are all as one. Music is a universal language that has the ability to speak to us deeply and uniquely. Music is expressed by each of us every day whether through dancing to a favourite tune, keeping rhythm with a tapping
foot, or remembering a special time when hearing a forgotten melody. It is central to our lives and is embedded in our culture, defining how we acknowledge milestones, rites of passage and celebrations as well as providing comfort, transformation and inspiration. Music links us to our world and provides a pathway back to our past. Music can be our emotional anchor. And then there are natural musical sounds, like the chorus of birds, the sound of rain, the crack of thunder, the sound of silence or the reassuring feel of one’s heartbeat. In these days of portable digital devices, the healing potential of music is only a couple of clicks away. Why not create a music library of nostalgic songs that take you back to meaningful times. Slip in the ear buds and feel your brain sizzle to life as music activates the mind, energizes the body, and makes the spirit soar – soar high to where indeed the hills are alive with the sound of music...
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The Infant Death by Karl Wenzel, CFSP, MBIE
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ny death is difficult to accept and deal with, but a death of an infant can be incomprehensible. Young children are the only “innocents” left in this world, they’re not supposed to die. Unfortunately, death is a reality for all ages and shows no discrimination. In fact, infant death in North America is still considered relatively “high” in relation to our economic and social conditions and the health of mothers and newborns, as well as the effectiveness of our health care systems. Canada has the second highest reported first day infant mortality rate among industrialized countries in the world with the United States being the highest. Fortunately, the infant death rate (infants who die under one year of age) has been decreasing for over 30 years. With modern medicine and technological advancements, thousands of lives are being saved that years ago would not have been. As important as all this is, the deaths of those that couldn’t be saved shouldn’t be undervalued. We are saving more babies than ever before, but for bereaved parents, the loss of their child is devastating. Research over the last decade has proven that these parents often have very special needs. Perhaps, they need to hold their infant and say, “Goodbye,” and, “I love you.” The skill and techniques of a professional embalmer can make this happen. In today’s world the professional embalmer entering into the profession may be fortunate enough to not have had a lot of exposure to infant death care, thus creating an anxiety when handling such cases. Those 44 | FuneralTimes
Karl is the Coordinator of Technical Education and Training for Dodge as of September 2013. He worked for the Arbor Group (largest independent funeral service chain in Canada) for six years as their Manager of Decedent Care and Preparational Development. Karl has been a licensed embalmer since 1997 and is licensed in Ontario. He is the Fountain National Academy Canadian Ambassador. living close to larger specialized children hospitals and embalmers with many years’ experience in the preparation room, have for sure completed a great number of infant embalmings. I am sure all will say, although it’s not an easy situation, it is possible to embalm and present a newborn child for viewing. Several months ago I assisted with the preparation of a young infant who died weeks after birth. Due to circumstances behind his death the attending coroner requested a post-mortem examination. This is not an uncommon scenario, for investigational questions need answers. Primarily the function of an autopsy is to determine three important facts: the cause, the manner, and the mechanism of the death being investigated. Generally the manner of death in a forensic case is either homicide or suicide, as opposed to a natural death. The mechanism of death refers to the agent used to cause the death, such as poison or a knife in a murder investigation. The term “autopsy” comes from a Greek word meaning “to see with one’s own eye”. Autopsies are on the decline in North America mostly due to the financial demand it places on local and federal governments. What is on the increase, in the eyes of the embalmer, is the radical and sometimes careless approach taken by some autopsy technicians in the method of evisceration. There are several types of evisceration procedures used by autopsy technicians worldwide, depending on preference and the reason for the autopsy.
The Virchow method of individually removing each organ is a common method for forensic autopsies. All methods, if completed with care by the technician, allow the embalmer a means of arterial embalming. It is understood that in some cases the carotids must be removed for investigational reasons, which will create more of an issue for the embalmer. Often in children in larger metropolitan areas the radical procedures of autopsy can be a concern for even the most experienced embalmer. That was the concern with this young child. The autopsy had been the traditional (for this geographical area) style of “Y” incision. However, this radical forensic autopsy took the incision and split it again at the abdominal area and continued down each leg to the foot area. The layer of skin on the legs had been reflected back to expose the underlying tissue. It looked a lot like an organ procurement case, however, no bone or tissue had been harvested. The incision from the shoulder area also split off and went up both sides of the neck, across the head, and down the centre of the back, which again split in a “Y” at the base of the spine, ending at the bottom of each buttock. It was extreme. Years ago an autopsy of this fashion was unheard of. Today it is becoming more and more common under certain circumstances involving children where there is the suspicion and/or history of physical abuse. Having talked to various coroners and autopsy technicians across the country, the explanation I have received is that an autopsy is performed like this when they are looking for old bruising and previous damage to tissue from abuse perhaps unknown to them. I had a funeral director recently say to me that this method is disgusting and disrespectful to the child’s body. As funeral professionals we may tend to feel that way. I have always looked at this as a sad element of our society, that abuse of children is so prevalent. The autopsy, and the approach by the medical team, serves a purpose to hopefully eliminate that potential abuse from ever happening again to another child. Fortunately, with this case we were dealing
with, abuse was not a determining factor in the death. As we started the embalming process with this young infant we began with a liberal spray of Dis-Spray across the entire surface of the body, both front and back. The mouth, eyes, ears, nose, and groin area were completely cleaned, removing any mucous and foreign debris. Cotton soaked in Dis-Spray was used to swab the mouth, nose, and eyes, to ensure the area was completely disinfected. A human body can have ten times the amount of bacteria as we do cells in our body. Even this young infant was a potential disease risk to us, so disinfection was equally as important as with an adult. After disinfecting the body, I laid the infant on a folded hospital bed pad that we had laundered. I made sure there was an ample amount of cushion in the padding as not to create an unwanted “flat back” on the infant. We wanted to ensure that the back and head of this child did not take on the form of the flat hard table. The parents might wish to pick up and hold their child and a flattened head and back would most certainly not feel natural. Really any soft fabric will be sufficient, however, if you use a regular absorbent cotton, or cellucotton, use a plastic barrier between the infant and cotton so as not to wick moisture away from the tissue. With any child the tissue is very soft and pliable so it must be protected. Once the infant was positioned in a manner that I felt was natural (I prefer to leave infant children’s arms down at their side), I placed a light coating of Kalon Massage Cream over the face and hands. This would help protect the tissue from dehydration and also make the skin more receptive to a light cosmetic application later. While this was being completed I was continually thinking about a method of approach and doing a “pre-embalming” analysis. The sutures across the front of the infant were removed, exposing the small viscera bag and chest plate. The sutures down both legs and across the top of the head were also removed. I did leave in the sutures across a small portion of the shoulders going up the neck. This was to ensure everything remained lined up with the adjoining tissue. With any type of cranial FuneralTimes | 45
autopsy making sure the adjoining tissue to rush in the prep room, but I want to make is lined up to its adjacent tissue is always sure the time I do have is well spent. So in a concern. With this extensive forensic order to use my time effectively I always autopsy and the reflecting of the facial tissue place a layer of Webril around the exposed from the cranial and facial bones it can tissue of the chest walls and cranial flap and fficult to acceptmore andofdeal with, but a death of an infant be incomprehensible. become an issue. soak itcan in Basic Dryene or Dryene Young II and children a I know some embalmers who will also use a fold thedeath tissue is back over the Webril in this world, they’re not supposed to die. Unfortunately, a reality forsoaked all ages and shows n permanent marker to mark across the tissue, to allow it to work and cauterize and dry the In fact,making infantpoints death ofinreference North America is still considered relatively “high” in relation to our econom to align the tissue tissue as I work on other things during the when Thenewborns, sutures onas the back embalming. of our health care systems. Canada h the health of resuturing. mothers and well asofthe effectiveness infant were left in, as well, for the time In this particular case because the tissue eportedthe first day infant mortality rate among industrialized countries in the world with the United being. We would remove those sutures later of the legs was also reflected back the same tunately, theour infant death rate (infants who die under year of age) beenthe decreasing after arterial embalming took place. wasone done to this area.has Setting features for over Once I had removed the sutures, the chest of such a small child can be a little more edicine plate and technological advancements, thousands difficult of lives than are being saved that years ago would no and cranial cap were taken aside and those of an adult. The bones of all thiswrapped is, the deaths of those that couldn’t undervalued. Wevery aresoft. saving mor in Webril, soaked in Dryene II, be saved theshouldn’t mandiblebe and maxilla are still and wrapped in the a piece ofofplastic. I never In this particular case Ithe used a small drillhas proven for bereaved parents, loss their child is devastating. Research over last decade place the chest plate and cranial cap into to bore a small hole in both these bones. ave verymy special needs. Perhaps,as they need to hold their infant say,of “Goodbye,” and, “I love you.” Viscerock container I see so many Then, usingand a pair hemostats and needle embalmers do. Cross contamination of injector wires, I fed the wire from behind of a professional embalmer can make this happen. In today’s world the professional embalmer enter bacteria and unknown factors are a great the bones forward. This permitted the barb be fortunate enough to not bag havewashad a lot ofI exposure to infant care,bone thusfrom creating an anxiety concern. The viscera small and felt of the wire todeath catch the behind, 16oz. of Dri Cav was sufficient to place in the anchoring it into place. Then the wires were ases. Those living close to larger specialized children hospitals and embalmers with many years’ exp bag. tied together as I would in an adult. The room, have sure completed a great number embalmings. I am sure all say, althoug Oncefor I placed the cavity chemical into the of infant eyes of the infant were sunken andwill deflated visceratobag I tied it off present and massaged the childdue the removal of themonths vitreousago humor of t is possible embalm and a newborn for toviewing. Several I assisted with bag for about a minute. Massaging the bag the eye for toxicology testing. Placing a small a youngallows infantthewho diedchemical weeks after birth. Due to circumstances behind hiseye death theleave attending coro cavity to come in contact eye cap over that sunken would an with everything in the bag. Simply pouring unnatural appearance. With deflated eyes -mortem examination. This is not an uncommon scenario, for investigational questions need answer it in and setting it aside may leave viscera both infants and adults I use a 20-gauge an autopsy is to determine three important thein cause, the manner, and the mechanism of the d unexposed to the chemical, especially infacts: a needle and syringe with Feature Builder. The adult. of death in a forensic case is either syringe is filled or with FeatureasBuilder and enerallyfull-size the manner homicide suicide, opposed to a natural As we prepared for our arterial injection through the sclera (white of eye) the infant eath refers to the agent used to cause the death, sucheyeas(same poisonasoradult) a knife in a murder investigation. there was one last thing I wanted to be is reinflated to about from acertain Greek was wordworking meaning “to advantage: see with one’s eye”.ofAutopsies on the decline inflex North Amer to my time.own 80% capacity. Iare always leave a bit of As most embalmers do, we have “deadlines” in the eye. This is precautionary just in case cial demand it places on local and federal governments. What is on the increase, in the eyes of the e to meet and usually a heavy workload in there is swelling of the eye during arterial sometimes careless approach by some autopsy injection. technicians the method of evisceration. the preparation room ortaken elsewhere in the It isineasier to go in after injection There funeral home. certainly do not want and inflate the eye if needed, it is tion procedures used Ibymost autopsy technicians worldwide, depending onmore, preference andthan the reason for t 46 | FuneralTimes
ethod of individually removing each organ is a common method for forensic autopsies. All methods, i
to remove the Feature Builder afterwards. Once the eye was reinflated and the appearance was conducive to a natural setting, I placed a small eye cap with some Kalip Stay Cream in the eye and closed the eye to the lower one third. Preparing to begin my arterial injection, I made up a suitable solution in the tank, consisting of 16oz. Rectifiant, 16 oz. Metaflow, 4 oz. Restorative, and 10 oz. Regal in a waterless mix for a total of 46 oz. or 1.36 litres. Some embalmers may feel that this waterless mix is too strong an arterial solution for a young infant. However, I feel that a higher index, stronger solution is often needed in children. Proportionately, compared to an adult, a child has a much higher moisture content to body weight ratio. Due to the secondary dilution factor I will increase my ratio of chemical. Often, I will also weigh into the equation that this funeral may be pushed back due to parents’ grief, so I want to be confident everything will be satisfactory in the presentation of the infant. Once my injection began the solution was introduced at a pulsating pressure of 150160 lbs. with a rate of flow of 5-8 oz. per minute. When the injection of the head took place, the rate of flow was reduced to 1 oz. per minute, however, the pressure remained the same. I was not concerned with pressure. It is the rate of flow that needs to be monitored to ensure swelling does not become an issue. Often when we get ready to begin our arterial injection we notice the skills and techniques used by the autopsy technician. To be kind, perhaps whatever vessels are left for you are not in the best condition. They have been severed and disturbed to a point they become useless for a point of injection, making your task much more difficult. If this is a common problem for you, it may be advisable to contact the pathologist and express the desire to work with him or her. Show your understanding of the importance of their job, but also explain your desire to fulfill an important task. Hopefully, if you show a desire to work together he or she will reciprocate that same desire. With this infant the arterial injection went very well to the legs and arms. There were a
few “bleeders” in the legs and some seepage of fluid due to the skin on the legs being reflected back, but distribution went well. I was not so lucky with the tissue of the head. A lot of the superficial vessels had been disturbed with the reflection of the facial area and distribution was below what I was comfortable with. To assist in compensating for this shortfall, I treated the tissue under the skin of the face with a liberal coating of SynGel HV. A few spots of deep tissue areas around the neck and face were hypoed with small amounts of arterial fluid from the embalming tank, using caution not to swell and distort the infant’s facial features. It’s always important to ensure all the areas left untreated by arterial injection receive treatment through other means like hypo work or surface packs. Certain areas of the body needed further treatment. The buttocks, the groin, areas of the thoracic cavity, and the neck received a “once over” with some hypo work. Even though I felt the legs and arms received good distribution, I did go over and hypo those areas as well. As I prepared for returning the viscera into the thoracic cavity, I first removed the Webril surface packs of Dryene II that I had placed earlier on the raw exposed tissue of the head, chest flaps, and legs. Those packs had created treated, cauterized, and dry tissue, which was what I was hoping for. The entire area of exposed tissue on the legs and thoracic area was then painted with SynGel HV followed by a light coating of Viscerock. I placed a small piece of Webril coated with SynGel HV into the neck to reshape the voided area. The viscera bag was then aspirated of the remaining chemical and fluid. The viscera was well treated with that 16oz. of Dri Cav. Only a small amount of Viscerock and Action was placed into the viscera bag, making sure it was well mixed before returning it to the thoracic cavity. The chest plate was returned still wrapped in the Webril soaked with Dryene II. As I began to suture the incision closed, starting at the foot of the right leg, I began to fill the voided area with some more Viscerock, moving up to the abdominal area. Then I started the left leg, doing the same until the incisions met, continuing up to the “Y” of FuneralTimes | 47
the neck, then branching up each side to the shoulder area and stopping here. The entire time I was making sure I was adding more Viscerock to the voided areas. Now with the focus on closing the cranial area, appearance becomes more of a concern. This infant being only a few weeks old, the skull had yet to form together, creating four separate pieces. Distortion of the skull, once everything was together, was a real concern. To combat this I had to first seal off the cranial floor using Inr-Seel and a heavy compound injector. A fair amount of Inr-Seel was used to fill the void space of the spine and cover the internal carotids and optic openings ensuring no leakage. The entire floor was covered with Inr-Seel. Once this was done I took several sheets of Webril and formed a small ball to take on the shape of the voided space where the brain once was. It took several attempts to get just the right size and shape to get the cranial bones aligned and meet at the appropriate place. Then using the same small drill used to close the mouth, I drilled four holes in each section of the skull pieces. As I got ready to close up the skull, just before I began, I removed the formed Webril and coated the entire surface of the Webril with SynGel HV and placed it back into its desired place. This was done to avoid the Webril contacting any tissue surface of the head. I did not want wicking of the soft delicate tissue of the head to take place, but also it was an added step to make sure the area was well preserved. With that now in place, using a curved needle and suture cord, all four pieces of the skull were tied together guaranteeing they remained in their natural anatomical position. Now that we had the skull back together and everything was ready to suture closed, I removed those few sutures left by the pathologist around the shoulder area and applied SynGel HV to the entire underlying area. Once that was completed the shoulders were sutured up to just behind both ears. At this point I stopped and aligned the facial tissue and tacked the top of the tissue of the skull in the midline area of the head. Then, using the heavy compound injector with the flat nozzle (Cat. No. 703629), I injected a layer of Inr-Seel 48 | FuneralTimes
under the skin in the forehead area of the infant. Small amounts were spread over the entire area to allow me to adjust slight imperfections in the shaping of the skull and also as a barrier to prevent that separation of the skull bone from appearing in the days that followed completion. When doing my final suturing up the neck and across the head a small amount of Q-S powder was put into the area of the incision, followed by InrSeel to prevent any possible leakage. With everything nearly done we could not forget this forensic autopsy took the incision line straight down his back and across both buttocks. Carefully we turned over the infant and, making sure not to compress the facial features, we opened the incisions down the back. Most of this area had received some form of treatment through arterial and hypo injection already. However, we had to make sure that it was well treated and there was no leakage. Here I took a mixture of SynGel HV and Basic Dryene and mixed the two together to create a “Super Gel” and applied that to the exposed tissue. As I sutured it closed, I made sure my incision area had some Q-S powder along the way. What I did differently here that I did not do in the front (although I most certainly could have), is I applied a small amount of Inr-Seel over the top of the incision once closed. I then pressed the Inr-Seel into the closed suture and smoothed it out using a damp finger, and I then sealed it over using some Pore Closer. By doing this I was adding an additional barrier of protection to prevent leakage. We followed with a good washing and cleaning of the infant and a little “fine tuning” of features. With viewing of the infant scheduled for later that night we needed to complete the dressing and casketing that same day. With everything completed we did one last thing for security against leakage. With the possibility of his parents wanting to hold their child and the embalmer’s fear that one drop of bodily fluid might show up on the clothing, I took some stretch wrap (Cling Wrap) and wrapped it completely around the legs, chest, and back area, creating one more barrier between the infant and the clothing.
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It didn’t take long to dress the infant and do the cosmetics. After a minimal application of airbrush cosmetics and a combing of the hair, we had casketing completed with plenty of time to spare. It was a challenging case. The preparation of infant children is time consuming and not an enjoyable experience for anyone involved. The one thing we all need to remember is that our extra effort in the prep room makes a world of difference to the families we serve. That young family said “goodbye” later that evening and held their child. Without our efforts as professional embalmers, that may
not have been possible. 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: Shepherds Funeral Supplies, Unit 2A Royal Canal Business Park, Athlone Road, Co. Longford. Ph. 00353 43 3349702/00353 87 2486668
N.I. BIFD monthly meeting The N.I. BIFD monthly meeting was held on Wednesday 31st May 2017 at the Dunsilly Hotel, Antrim. The newly elected board members are as follows: Chairman: Mr Stephen McCosh Vice Chairman: Mr Andrew McClure Regional Director: Mr David Capper Secretary: Mr Adrian Gilmore Treasurer: Mr Ken Gilmore
Stephen McCosh took over the chair from Alan Wray who held the position for almost 10 years. David Capper took over the role of Regional Director from Ken Gilmore who held the position for almost 18 years.
Reynolds receive new removal ambulance
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eynolds Funeral Service who are based in Bognor, Chichester and Littlehampton have upgraded their removal ambulance to a Mercedes Vito with the Wilcox rise and fall double deck. Jason said he thought that the Wilcox rise and fall deck was extremely strong and would work very well for them as it enabled them to be able to carry four stretchers or coffins at any one time. The deck also benefits from under deck storage, with sliding doors on both sides. Wilcox Limousines would like to thank Reynolds Funeral Service for their valued business.
Jason Corbin of Reynolds Funeral Service receiving their new Removal Ambulance from Malcolm Brooks of Wilcox Limousines
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Women in mythology By Jennifer Muldowney Historically the Irish have had a great relationship with death, right? There are many myths and folklore relating to it throughout our history but the question is have we lost it? And if we have, how do we get it back?
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he bean-sidhe (woman of the fairy), the bean-chaointe (keening woman), beannighe (washer woman) or the Banshee as she is more commonly known is an ancestral spirit who has been appointed to forewarn members of ancient Irish families of their timely death. She comes disguised in three forms; a beautiful young woman, a stately matron or a raddled, ugly old hag and she has often been ‘seen’ washing the blood stained clothes of those who were about to die. She is usually dressed in white or grey, with long grey hair. She is rarely ‘seen’ however and it is her mourning call that is heard, usually at night when someone is about to die. Sometimes the Banshee will cry for several nights in a row. Her sharp cries sound like waves and are called ‘keening’. In 1437, King James I of Scotland saw a Banshee just prior to his death. Alleged sightings of the Banshee have been reported
52 | FuneralTimes
as recently as 1948. There were certain families that were most associated with the Banshee – those who had an O or a Mac prefix to their name. As we know, wailing women were a regular feature at Irish wakes but when it came to these great Irish families, the Banshee would sing her lament when any family member died, even if they had died far away and news of their death had not yet reached Irish shores. When several Banshees appeared at once, it was an indication of the death of someone truly great or holy. Women featured very heavily in Irish death in the past but how much do they feature currently or in the future? In the future of your funeral business? Or in other funeral services? And does it matter? Something to think about at your next business get together.
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NAFD News Bereaved families benefit as more NAFD members put prices online More than a third of funeral directors surveyed now have prices online
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ore than a third (33.5%) of members of the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) surveyed in a recent members poll now have all or some of their prices available on their websites – helping people by giving them an idea of what a funeral costs, from the comfort and privacy of their own home. The survey also revealed that a further third (36.5%) of members are now planning to comply by 2019, a huge increase over the 19% that were considering the move a year ago – demonstrating a willingness on the part of the NAFD member firms to adapt to the changing needs of bereaved people. All NAFD members are required to publish comprehensive and transparent price lists as part of the Association’s Code of Practice. However, since 2016 the Association has been working to encourage more members to take the further step of publishing these prices online. This aims to help people gain a good understanding of costs and remove any potential discomfort or embarrassment when they first speak to a funeral director. NAFD President, Alison Crake, of family firm Crake and Mallon on Teesside, firmly believes that this is a step all funeral firms should take; a 2016 YouGov survey having proven that whilst 80% of Britons who had organised a funeral felt they had received value for money, 85% would like prices to be available online. Ms Crake’s own firm publishes a complete price list online and she is pleased that so many of her colleagues are making a similar move. “Today, when it comes to the majority of consumer purchases, people want to be able to do their research online first. Although it can be
54 | FuneralTimes
difficult for newly bereaved people to shop around, when they are in what is often described as the ‘fog’ of grief, by putting our prices online funeral directors are helping them to make an informed choice and to feel prepared when they walk through our doors. “This move is also about encouraging people to plan ahead – something not enough of us do these days. Hopefully a combination of online research and the chance to talk with a professional funeral director will help to make more people feel comfortable in putting some plans in place for the end of their life, or the funeral of someone close to them.” The huge increase in NAFD members putting their prices online is also partly down to encouragement from organisations such as Quaker Social Action, which is campaigning to help those people for whom any significant expense, such as a funeral, is simply beyond their financial reach. Heather Kennedy, of Quaker Social Action’s Fair Funerals campaign welcomed the news. She said: “There’s been an upsurge in funeral directors recognising the need for online pricing, and we applaud the NAFD’s hard work in leading this. “When we grieve, shopping around different funeral directors can be the last thing we want to do. But the fact is, there are big differences in what companies charge, so being able to compare prices before we commit ourselves is important. By putting prices on their websites, funeral directors really help grieving people find a funeral within their means. At a time when so many of us would struggle to afford a funeral, this change in the way funeral directors do business is brilliant news for a fairer society.”
Representing the needs of almost 4,000 funeral homes, the National Association of Funeral Directors is the “Voice of the Funeral Profession”, supporting members and assuring the public of high standards for more than 100 years. The NAFD is influential • Consulted by Government on legislative issues • First call for the media on funeral / bereavement issues • Established cross party groups in all four UK Parliaments / Assemblies • Universally endorsed professional qualifications
The NAFD is inclusive • We are financially independent of any other organisation • We campaign on issues affecting all members equally • Members range from small independent firms to groups and Co-operatives • We are totally democratic with one member, one vote - irrespective of the number of funeral homes
The NAFD is supportive • Best benefits package within the sector, saving up to £5,000 a year on essential business costs • Free helplines for financial, legal and employment law, HR, public relations and repatriation issues • Free £5m professional indemnity insurance per UK funeral home member - unique within the sector • Free insurance against tribunal claims, H&S and tax prosecutions
The NAFD is trusted • NAFD members are trusted by consumers to deliver our Funeral Promise: • A funeral that is a fitting farewell, at a price they are comfortable with • Treating bereaved families with respect and acting with integrity • Fulfilling any special wishes and requests • The right to independent redress if the need should arise
Your business will be Stronger by Association with the NAFD. Apply to join today and start taking advantage of the benefits of membership. Call: Su Lewis on 0121 711 1343 ext. 20. Visit: www.nafd.org.uk/whyjointhenafd
Family conflict over funeral arrangements up by almost 60% I
n May, the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) joined with Dying Matters to urge Britons to express their final wishes and put some plans in place to prevent future conflict, following a survey among NAFD members that showed a rise of nearly two-thirds (57%) in conflict in the past 12 months, which had led to funeral directors being targeted and in some cases having to take extreme action to make peace among warring families. In response, the NAFD, in association with Dying Matters, released an updated edition of its guide My Funeral Wishes, which encourages people to plan their funeral with those close to them, and to record a written guide to ensure their wishes are clear and help to avoid future conflict and distress for their families. Alison Crake, President of the National Association of Funeral Directors, said: “Positive change is happening, but clearly not fast enough. More and more people say they are willing to talk about the end of their life, but this isn’t necessarily translating into practical planning and it is leaving families with uncertainty that is increasingly exacerbating fault lines and turning into conflict. “As well has having a terrible impact on families this is also exposing funeral directors and their teams to aggressive behaviour and increasingly leaving them with unpaid debts too. “We urge people to use simple tools like My Funeral Wishes to think about what kind of funeral they want and how it will be paid for – and to either share their thinking with someone close to them or leave the details somewhere they will easily be found after their death. In doing so, they will help the ones they leave behind to say farewell to them without additional distress, uncertainty or conflict.” The three most frequently cited sources of conflict witnessed by funeral directors surveyed were: • Estranged families being forced together following the death of a relative; • Uncertainty over a deceased person’s wishes 56 | FuneralTimes
and what the funeral arrangements should be; and • How the funeral will be paid for? Funeral directors are increasingly finding themselves mediating between warring families over funeral arrangements. In the survey funeral directors reported: • Family members ‘shouting and screaming’ in front of other bereaved families; • Different sides of families threatening to go to the press over the choices made by their relatives; • ‘Abusive and threatening behaviour’ towards funeral home staff; • Unpaid or late payment of the costs of the funeral; and • Ashes remaining uncollected for months – even years. One funeral director reported setting up a password system after a family expressly forbade certain relatives from visiting a deceased person; another being caught in the middle of a row which had delayed a funeral taking place and finding herself communicating between one side of the family sitting on one side of the church and the other side of the family on the other, and a third funeral director saying that he now offers to split ashes due to the frequency of arguments over who owns the cremated remains of a relative. According to research by Dying Matters, 65% of people want their friends to be more comfortable talking about dying, death and bereavement. This accords with the NAFD survey findings, which showed that 61% of funeral directors agreed that campaigns to encourage people to talk more openly about their death and funeral had had a positive impact. However many people are still all-too-often reluctant to talk about the end of their life. Indeed, YouGov discovered in their 2016 survey Funerals Matter that almost one in seven Britons said that nothing at all would prompt them to think ahead to their funeral. The uncertainty and upset among families is
being exacerbated by a change in the savings culture of the nation, with far fewer people setting aside any funds for planned and unplanned expenses in life. A survey in 2016 by the Money Advice Service revealed than 16 million British adults had less than £100 saved – a figure that wasn’t necessarily related to income, but was more about a change in the nation’s view of how expenses will be paid for which, when coupled with a general reluctance to plan ahead, leaves families without either financial resources or important information to carry out the funeral of a loved one.
Claire Henry, Chief Executive of Dying Matters added: “This research shows how important it is for us all to talk about dying, and to make our funeral plans in good time. Discussing what you want for your funeral, and leaving it written down, can help avoid family arguments at a time when people are grieving and emotions are running deep. None of us wants to leave a mess behind, and this is a really important part of putting your house in order. Especially when so many of us have complex families and different relationships during our lives.”
NAFD welcomes appointment of Inspector of Funeral Directors in Scotland
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he National NAFD and SAIF, the Association of Funeral National Society of Allied Directors has warmly and Independent Funeral welcomed the appointment Directors, overwhelmingly of Natalie McKail as supported the introduction the first ever Inspector of an Inspector as being in of Funeral Directors in the public interest. Miss Scotland. Lavin said: “The NAFD Mandie Lavin, Chief warmly welcomes Natalie Executive of the NAFD, to the role of Inspector members of which carry of Funeral Directors, and out 80% of funerals in looks forward to working the United Kingdom, closely with her, as we have said Miss McKail’s Natalie McKail, the new Inspector done with Government, to appointment will “help help shape the future of the of Funeral Directors in Scotland keep standards high profession in Scotland. “We and strengthen public believe appointing an Inspector of Funeral confidence” in the profession. Directors is in the public interest and The NAFD has been working closely believe Natalie’s appointment will help keep with Scottish Government ministers over standards high in the profession, as well the future of the profession, including the as strengthen public confidence, and we introduction of regulation, and has worked alongside Miss McKail as part of the National look forward to forming a close working relationship and bringing her up to speed Committee on Infant Cremation. with all the issues affecting the funeral At the April conference organised by the profession.” Association in Stirling, members of the
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Influencers and decision makers drive results at NFE 2017 ‘Fantastic’, ‘inspiring’, ‘successful’ and ‘entertaining’ are some of the words that visitors and exhibitors used to sum up their three days at the National Funeral Exhibition, at Stoneleigh, in June.
NFE 2017 certainly delivered the business leaders and decisionmakers; 4,000 influencers from the funeral profession visited the show with a serious intent to purchase, leading to exhibitors commenting on the high quality of interactions they had on their stand and how many of them had led to business results. VIP guests, plus 150 excited children on Family Day, added to the total number of people through the doors of the show across the three open days, ensuring that there was a vibrant atmosphere and high quality footfall within the two halls throughout the show. 58 | FuneralTimes
In her opening address, NAFD President Alison Crake urged attendees to “absorb all that the NFE has to offer you and your business. Talk to as many exhibitors as you can, scribble notes at the education sessions, enjoy the many networking and entertainment opportunities to help you make or renew important contacts… and then take what you learn and see back into your communities to help you continue to make a difference to those who are grieving. She added: “Take a look around you; every spare inch of space is packed full of exhibitors showcasing the very latest products, technology, services and support to help you as funeral directors to care for families – including a number of brand-new-to-the-UK market innovations that could quickly become the tried and tested, gold standard in funeral service.” As the weekend unfolded, both first time and regular exhibitors remarked that the show was
delivering valuable visitors to their stands. “Frankly, at times we were almost mobbed”, said Greg Cranfield, Commercial Director for JC Atkinson, “even with eight staff on the stand.” The firm exhibited a wide range of products, including the Hainsworth wool coffin, their new brand new Pathway coffin and an innovative new service turning ashes into vinyl records. “It’s been a really successful show for us.” The show was virtually as well as physically busy with more than 59,000 views of showrelated tweets posted by the three NAFD official Twitter feeds (@funeral_exhibit, @nafd_uk and @NAFDPresident) in the period covering the run up and open days of the event, and the hashtag #nfe2017 being used more than 1,250 times by show attendees. On Facebook, posts about the show by the NAFD alone have reached more than 8,600 people and the total continues to climb. The Association also used the show as an opportunity to test messages with different platforms such as Snapchat and Instagram with the aim of reaching out to new, younger audiences to encourage conversation about funeral wishes. Many visitors took the opportunity to rest their feet and grab some free inspiration at the same time in the seminar theatre in the heart of Hall 1. The theatre was busy during each session, with a wide range of speakers including NAFD Chief Executive Mandie Lavin on the strategic direction of the Association, an update on developments in regulation in Scotland and a focus on standards and the Code of Practice; Deborah Smith of Wordsmith Communication arguing the case for engaging with social media; Bernadette Halton of the RNIB (Royal National Institute for Blind People) who gave attendees a vivid personal experience of what it is like to live
with a visual impairment and Chantal Lockey of the Foundation for Infant Loss Training who spoke movingly about the loss of her daughter to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome in 2004. There were also presentations from SEIB on cybercrime and from NAFD President Alison Crake on the importance of learning and development in the funeral profession. Visitors from more than 19 nations ensured that the show maintained it's reputation as one of the top three global events for the funeral profession. Indeed, the NAFD welcomed visitors from countries as diverse as Bermuda, Cyprus, Mauritania, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa and Sri Lanka to the NFE – all of whom related similar challenges and opportunities as those facing the UK profession. Speaking after the event, Mandie Lavin, Chief Executive of the National Association of Funeral Directors, said: “The NFE exists to provide an important and valuable opportunity for the international funeral profession to gather together - to do business, to network, to inspire through the latest thinking and the most innovative products…and to showcase the very best in this wonderful profession. “What a wonderful, energising and inspiring weekend. I would like to thank every single exhibitor, sponsor, visitor and supplier for participating in the show – and particularly the exhibitors for your commitment, creativity and dedication to delivering an outstanding visitor experience. I am delighted that NFE 2017 met the very high expectations that the profession rightly has of the show and I would like to thank the NAFD team and our suppliers, particularly Grandstand Media, Lemon Zest Events, Blue Chilli Design and Print and of course Stoneleigh Park, for helping us to deliver such a successful event. “We are listening closely to feedback and urge everyone with a view on the next show to contact us. We are determined to improve the NFE still further and will be working hard across the next two years to ensure the 2019 event is even bigger and even more successful!” Expressions of interest are already being taken for the 2019 show which will be held between Friday 7 and Sunday 9 June 2019. Many exhibitors have already signed up and selected their space. Please contact Kirsti Tomkinson on 0121 711 1343 or kirsti@ nafd.org.uk for further details. FuneralTimes | 59
Any place, any time, anywhere... H
ow long does it take to organise a Civil funeral service? In Ireland funerals happen quickly, usually within 3 or 4 days of the death. Funeral directors and families may want a civil service for their loved one but be afraid that it would take too long to organise and delay the funeral. This is not the case, according to Mary Elizabeth Dillon, of Civil Funerals Ireland. “As soon as I get the call, usually from the funeral director, I start making preparations. I make contact with the family and try to establish one point of contact with the family and channel communications through that person. I always try to meet with the family, to sit down with them and get a feeling of what they want and what sort of person their loved one was so as to put together a service that is right and fitting for them.” It can be very difficult for a family to make decisions at this time, particularly if the death was sudden or unexpected but Mary Elizabeth brings years of experience with her and is a practised hand at making suggestions and guiding the bereaved in a calm and compassionate manner. “At the end of the day the date and time
of the service is set and that is the deadline that we have to work towards” she says, and whether it is a church ceremony or a civil service it has to go ahead at the appointed time. It has happened that families want to prepare and carry out the service themselves but sometimes find that they become bogged down or overwhelmed by the task. Mary Elizabeth has stepped in at very short notice in these circumstances and has steered the service, allowing the family to have their input and participate but at the same time taking the pressure off them. “I got a phone call one Friday at 1.30pm, she said, from a family in Dublin who needed a service for their mother on Saturday at 1.30pm,” Mary Elizabeth recalls. “It was a rush job but everything got done, the service was quiet and reflective but suited the family perfectly and it was very satisfying to help people out when they really needed me.” To sum it all up everything is possible, having some notice is great but not essential. sometimes the most fulfilling work is done under pressure and I would never put somebody off a civil service due to time pressure.
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Mary Elizabeth Dillon is available between 9am - 11pm 7 days a week Tel ROI: 0402 91273 / Mobile: 087 957 4476 Email: info@civilfuneralsireland.com 60 | FuneralTimes
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Burial throughout history As time passes, we see a perpetual shift of societal beliefs, customs and traditions, taking on new meanings and fulfilling new purposes. The means through which these are typically expressed has, and will continue to, transform. It is widely believed that such beliefs, engrained in the society of the time, were at one point expressed through writing in stone. The treatment of our loved ones upon death clearly holds significant anthropological meaning.
T
he Philadelphia Inquirer last September ran a fascinating article; ‘Funeral Customs & Traditions: The Surprising History Behind Gravestones’. During the stone age, at a time humans roamed the land, nomadic in nature, the dead were buried with a vast stone or boulder rolled atop the grave with the intention of preventing the deceased from rising from their grave. As tribes began settling down this custom was cemented, however gradually the boulders and stones which littered the landscape were replaced with chamber tombs named “dolmens”, covering the entire grave. The most synonymous grouping of dolmens, dating back over 2,000 BC resides in Wiltshire, England; Stonehenge. As society grew increasingly sedentary, burial methods once driven by fear and superstition were shifting towards a desire to remember and honour the dead.
Ancient Customs
Elaborate and complex burial rites have, at many times, been commonplace. Both ancient Egyptian and Mesopotamian cultures believed that the journey to the after-world commenced upon burial within the Earth and thus mummified their loved ones, burying them along with their tools of trade and any valuables available to aid their passage. It was believed 62 | FuneralTimes
Stonehenge that once an ancestor was forgotten, they ceased to exist. Even though the after-world of ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia was considered a dark, shadowy place, the idea of non-existence was believed to be a fate far worse than death. Tombs and pyramids so big as to block out the sun were erected in a Pharaoh’s name and image, with the average person buried close to their home with graves tended to regularly. Stones carved into the deceased’s likeness were then placed atop a “mastaba,” or ‘bench’, preserving their memory. This duty of care to the dead was further evident in ancient Greece, where remembrance of the dead was considered akin to civic-duty, with each citizen responsible for the honour of their ancestors. Their dead were buried in tombs and graves topped with marble and stone. Stone statues were again carved
in the likeness of the dead and placed above the burial site. To aid remembrance, some states saw children named after their grandparents. Ancient China and the subsequent dynasties formed burial practices focused mainly upon burial along with ones favourite and most valuable possessions, for use in the afterlife. Famously, the first emperor of China and founder of the Qing dynasty, Qing Shi Huangti, was buried along with over 6,000 terracotta soldiers and 40,000 bronze swords protecting his tomb, along with a labyrinth of rare objects from throughout the world.
Customs of the Dark Ages
With the introduction of Christianity by the Romans, along with the concepts of Purgatory and Hell, the dark ages saw superstition and religion begin to transform burial customs once again. As Europe endured continual war and plague, funeral and burial customs changed to match. Burial grounds shifted from the home to roadside lots, and although cremation had a spell of popularity, increased population and decreasing lifespans called for an accelerated interment. Scrapping pleasantries, funerals became solemn, efficient events with scenes of death and despair painted upon churches, and headstones carved with grotesque skulls. Those at the time who could not afford headstones used wooden, iron, or brass crosses in order to mark their grave. The Victorian era signified the start of the modern funeral trade, when private cemeteries were erected and carpenters were enabled to make profit by creating elaborate grave markers. At the same time,
ufunerals quickly became an elaborate procession.Wooden and iron grave markers transformed into crosses, statues, and elaborate monuments carved in stone. As the study of anatomy became popular throughout Victorian Europe, resurrection men, individuals hired to steal freshly buried bodies for dissection, began raiding graves. This phenomenon of missing bodies gave rise to families holding “wakes” for the dead, where they would stand vigil through the night, searching for movement. Bells were commonly placed inside coffins or strung from the coffin to the surface in case of premature burial. Less wealthy individuals could place flowers at a grave or alternatively line the perimeter with small stones in order to detect any disturbances.
Modern Customs
Today, our cemeteries represent a plethora of combined rituals and practices, thousands of years in the making. Gravestones, at different times resembling giant boulders placed atop a grave, are typically slabs of granite, marble and stone placed upright at the head of a grave. From the Stone Age to the Middle Ages, the way we care for our dead has been changing. Influenced by our social, political and religious beliefs throughout time, where and how we bury our dead has always been a mirror image of how we view the living. We no longer avoid cemeteries as society would have dictated a mere twenty years ago. Modern cemeteries have seen themselves enter the digital movement, with funeral homes all over the country making the transition online. It is impossible to say what our cemeteries might look like in one hundred years.
FuneralTimes | 63
New delivery from Fearghas Quinn Phil O’Reilly, Tullamore, Co. Offaly takes delivery ofcollects his newhis Insignia hearse from Fearghas R. Gibney of Gibneys of Oldcastle Funeral Directors, new hearse from Fearghas Quinn Limousines. QuinnHearse Hearse & and Limousines.
Vintage Hearse Hire
Fully restored 1939 Austin 20 vintage hearse Can be used for all occasions: • Funerals • Funeral Premises Openings • Trade Exhibitions The vehicle is regularly serviced and is valeted to the highest standards for each occasion, so it will arrive on the day in pristine condition for the occasion. On the day your company name can be displayed in the side glass of the vehicle. A professional, uniformed chauffeur/bearer will also be provided.
T: 028 3753 1354 (NI) / 048 3753 1354 (ROI) Mobile: (+44) (0)7712 872391 Web: www.vintagehearsehire.net
Wreath Manufacture & Wholesale At Tom Sharkey & Sons Ltd.
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We have an extensive stock ready for delivery or collection including: • Circles of Life • Posies • Sprays • Hearts • Crosses • Cushions • Pillows • Gates of Heaven • Footballs and Jerseys • Posies with Candles • Lettering Wreaths All wreaths are created by fully qualified florists, reflecting contemporary design in floral arrangements. All at very competitive prices Discounts apply on scale of your orders. Special requests catered for at shortest notice
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Telephone: +00353 (0)94 986 0658 or email: sales@allseasonsflorists.ie 64 | FuneralTimes
SONGS OF DEATH AND BILL FANNING. By Mattie Lennon Life does not cease to be funny when people die any more than it ceases to be serious when people laugh (George Bernard Shaw). Recently when I came across a CD, Happy Songs of Death recorded by Marc Gunn, I decided to do a bit of research on it. It is a joyful juxtaposition of the morbid and the comic that celebrates murder ballads, the Black Death and starving to death. I wondered what sort of a person would write/sing such songs so I contacted Marc Gunn, who told me, “The idea was inspired by Andrew McKee, my old Brobdingnagian Bards, and partner. We were joking about stuff and Happy Songs of Death came up. It seemed so Irish; I thought I should make an album with that title. And most of the songs are traditional Irish drinking songs about death. The Irish have such a wonderful relationship with it. I love the idea of a wake, to celebrate the life of a person instead of focusing on their death. Admittedly, not everyone is as keen on that idea. I think it seems sacrilegious. A lady here in Birmingham, was looking at my CDs at a festival. She saw the title. I joked, “It’s Irish”. She looked unhappy with that and said, “Oh no, my father just passed away last September.” I wrote three of the songs on the album. “Won’t You Come With Me?” was inspired by the Kingston Trio’s song “Tom Dooley.” “Red, Red and Black” was a song inspired by some writing I found in Florence about the Black Death when it hit the city. The last one I wrote is “I’ll Drink From Dusk Til Dawn.” “Happy Songs of Death” is well worth listening to. Some deaths are commented on in colourful language. Recently I met a fellow who told me, “I’ve just got back from my mate’s funeral. He died after being hit on the head with a tennis ball.
It was a lovely service.” Speaking of which, we, in west Wicklow, are sometimes accused of having a peculiar attitude to death. I don’t think we have and by way of illustration let me tell you the following story. Many years ago when English writer John D. Vose was doing research for his book Tales and Yarns of Glendalough, he was interviewing sheep-farmer Bill Fanning, in Zeller’s pub in Lacken. Bill related how when he and Paddy Haley were rounding up sheep over Liffey Head they went into Nick Higgins for a “sup o’ tay.” Nick lived with his younger brother John and an older sister who had lived in America for years. Over to Bill Fanning; “Well, Frank asks after the old sister’s health. ‘She’s sick in bed ‘says Nick, ‘John’s just after takin’ her up some tay’. Me and old Haley goes off up the mountain after strays and we’re away for several hours. Frank asks Nick how the sister is. ‘Oh’ says Nick’ she’s not so good at all. She died two hours ago and John’s gone off to find someone to take her away’. Oh you had some quare adventures in my day along the road.” That was Bill Fanning for you. I wonder what mountain man Bill would think if he visited the bathroom of a funeral undertaker that I was in recently? The towels were marked HIS and HEARSE. What was I doing in the home of a funeral director? Well Tony Clarke is the present head of a dynasty of undertakers in west Wicklow. Clarke’s Funeral Directors are now moving to a new stateof-the-art premises at Burgage Mor, Blessington. Tony is a good few years younger than me and I called in to let him know about my only remaining ambition. When I shuffle off I want to be brought in, feet first, to the aforementioned established by a ninety-five year old Tony Clarke. FuneralTimes | 65
Join the association that’s leading the way. Representing and promoting the interests of 850 independent funeral directors. SAIF is at the forefront of tackling the big industry issues that matter to you. As the united voice of independent funeral directors we have led the way in setting the highest standards of professionalism and conduct within the industry. By joining SAIF you too can demonstrate that you uphold this same commitment. For over 25 years SAIF has been promoting and protecting the interests and values of independent funeral directors. Supporting our members is at the heart of everything we do, listening, responding and engaging to secure your independent future.
Join SAIF now: visit saif.org.uk or call us on 0345 230 6777 or 01279 726 777
SAIF NEWS ... SAIF NEWS ... New Administration Manager at SAIF Business Centre
I
would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as the new Administration Manager at SAIF Business Centre. I have previously worked for 17 years in education, initially employed as an Accounts Assistant, then to Payroll Management, then for the last 7 years as HR Operations Manager. Within this time I have supported staff and managers in all areas of their career journey, from handling wellbeing issues to employer relation issues, as well as introducing new processes and systems. It is now time in my career for a new challenge and opportunity so I was delighted to have been appointed to this role. Linda Jones, my predecessor, will be a hard act to follow but my Claire Day ethos, values and commitment to the funeral profession and the team at the SAIF business centre along with the support from Terry Tennens, Chief Executive, will ensure that the service provided continues to grow from strength to strength.
HMRC Adds To Personal Tax Account Services At the start of the tax year HMRC took another step on its march towards digital tax for all individuals by adding more services to its Personal Tax Accounts. A FRIEND IN NEED Through the GOV.UK portal you can now nominate a family member or friend to help with your personal tax affairs. This is a useful step because until now HMRC has been reluctant to communicate with anyone else regarding your tax affairs.
Education Day Following on from last year’s successful education day, SAIF have booked the same venue, the Leicester Tigers Rugby Club in Leicester, and have set the date for Thursday 1st November. Guest speakers will be confirmed shortly so please save the date and ensure you log into the members area of the SAIF website for updates. www.saif.org.uk
Statutory Paid Holiday Rights Post-Brexit
O
n the 29th March 2017 the Prime Minister officially triggered Article 50 and gave notice that the UK will be leaving the European Union. Entitlement to statutory paid holiday is set out in the Working Time Regulations 1998 (WTR) which are derived directly from EU law, namely the Working Time Directive (WTD). The WTD gave all workers in the EU the legal right to 20 day’s paid holiday, with the UK granting all workers 28 days or 5.6 weeks statutory holiday. At the point the UK leaves the EU, existing statutory paid holiday will not change with the government intending to review, and where necessary amend, the Working Time Regulations 1998, but changes to holiday are unlikely. FuneralTimes | 67
Wilcox Limousines secures official Jaguar Land Rover convertor approval The UK’s leading funeral vehicle coachbuilder has secured official recognition as an Approved Jaguar Land Rover Converter, following many years of working together converting Jaguars into funeral hearses and limousines, predominantly for the UK market.
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ilcox Limousines, a thirdgeneration family-owned business with nearly 70 years’ experience, has been working with Jaguar since 1969. The arrangement between the firms has been ongoing ever since. In anticipation of Wilcox launching the new Jaguar XF Hearse into International Markets, they began the process to secure Jaguar Land Rover approved convertor status. Paul Wilcox, CEO at Wilcox Limousines said: “We’ve been working with Jaguar Land Rover as a supported coachbuilder for almost 50 years. However now we are selling outside of the UK, this was a natural next step in our partnership.’ He continued: “Here at Wilcox, we have grown considerably in that time – progressing from one premises and 6 employees, to three main sites in the UK, including a state of the art factory in Wigan, and 100 employees today. We also hold many international partnerships and exclusive concessionaires.” The “accrual assessment” process for official Jaguar Land Rover convertor status was a lengthy and robust one that scrutinised every aspect of Wilcox’s vehicle production processes. Following a preliminary overview, Jaguar Land Rover conducted two in-depth audits that examined the process in detail, inspecting every element. The first audit focused on quality 68 | FuneralTimes
assurance, repeatability and consistency, ensuring that any modifications made by Wilcox to the original vehicle model are compatible and of the highest standard. The second scrutiny was the engineering audit that tested the capabilities of the vehicles, ensuring they are fit for purpose and a true reflection of the Jaguar Land Rover brand. This audit included testing vehicles around Jaguars proving ground. Following the full assessment, Jaguar Land Rover had no reservations in officially recognising Wilcox as an approved coachbuilder. Paul Wilcox said: “Thanks to Jaguar Land Rover’s assistance, Wilcox vehicles were already produced to exacting standards and the highest levels of quality. So, despite this being a rigorous process we were at no point concerned that we wouldn’t stand up to scrutiny. In truth, although the process was time consuming and required a lot of input from us, it didn’t involve any real disruption to our production methods or approach as all the required processes were already in place.” Paul concluded: “Of course, to become a Jaguar Land Rover Approved Convertor is huge for us and to now be able to publicise this is absolutely wonderful.” To find out more, please call +44 (0)1753 480 600 or email enquiries@wilcox.uk
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Another Volvo hearse for Paddy Mulligan Funeral Directors
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addy Mulligan Funeral Directors is located in Wexford. Paddy has been so pleased with his Volvo hearse that he had no hesitation in opting for the same make again. On this occasion he opted for a pre-owned ‘Traditional’ style. He collected his new vehicle from the port of Holyhead. The hearse Paddy chose comes with a high specification including a bench seat for three bearers, satellite navigation, leather interior, quiet diesel Paddy Mulligan taking delivery on his new Volvo hearse engine, alloy wheels and climate supplied by Ian Roe of Wilcox Limousines Ltd. control. Wilcox Limousines Ltd. would like to thank Paddy for his continued custom and wish him every success with his new hearse.
Darren Macdonald receives new Volvo Hearse Darren Macdonald receiving his new Volvo Hearse from Malcolm Brooks from Wilcox Limousines
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arren set up his business in the heart of Salisbury in September 2014 after working in the funeral profession for many years. Darren also works closely with Richard Adlem MBE who has been directing funerals for over 50 years. Darren said that he wished to stay with Volvo when upgrading as it provided
a modern style, was spacious, and also benefitted from the reliability that Volvos are known for. Darren is very keen to provide the very best for his community. Darren chose one of the Contemporary Volvo hearses that benefits from a rise and fall deck and leather interior. Wilcox Limousines wishes Darren every success with his new Hearse. FuneralTimes | 69
Dr Bill Webster
When tragedy strikes W
hat do we do when “This couldn’t happen here”, does happen? Once again, the world has been shocked by an act of terror which has claimed many lives and injured scores of others. But that it has happened, not in some remote or far off location, but right here at home in Manchester; and that it occurred at a concert attended by families and children just like ours, brings home to us again that the world in which we live can be a dangerous place. This age of social media has meant that the average citizen is exposed to many national and personal tragedies, shootings and bombings on our TV’s, computers and phones. It seems unbelievable when it happens. But how much more unbelievable it must be to the people who are directly involved. One comment repeated in almost every situation is “We didn’t think something like this could happen here.” While we are all painfully aware that tragedies occur, we insulate ourselves by assuming that they happen to “other people”, or “somewhere else”. So when tragedy does strike, there is often a sense of disbelief. Many of the assumptions that we held about our life or our world can be instantly violated and shattered, causing an surprising intensity of insecurity and anxiety. It is important to remember that “a crisis is not an event; a crisis is a reaction to any event.” This bombing is a traumatic and tragic event. The individual or community’s reaction to the situation constitutes the crisis. A crisis occurs when a person’s coping
70 | FuneralTimes
mechanisms are overwhelmed. This explains why, in one and the same situation, some people seem to cope well and handle things, while others appear to fall apart. The challenge for survivors is to reconnect fragments, to make meaning of their present symptoms in the light of past events. For those caught up in the tragedy, it will be about the power of “speaking the unspeakable”. Some situations seem too terrible to mention or even utter aloud. We find ourselves unable to process the reality of what has happened or put it into words. But atrocities refuse to be buried. Almost as powerful as the desire to banish them from our thinking is the realization that denial does not work for long. Appropriate grieving allows people and communities to recover, to heal, to learn and to grow. Four things will be important for those affected by the Manchester tragedy in the coming weeks and months. 1. The Re-establishment of safety Trauma robs its victims of a sense of power and control. Realizing that we were unable to control and are now unable to undo what has happened, or recover what has been lost, often undermines one’s sense of competence. Thus, any intervention must begin by reassuring the individual that they will be ok. In an instant, their world has become an unsafe place, and this important factor needs to be understood and addressed before anything else can be achieved. 2. Reconstructing the trauma The second stage will be more cognitive, by which I mean “capable of knowledge”. It is with a sense of safety established that the person feels able to begin telling the story
of what happened. Tragic events cannot be avoided, as much as we might like to think they can, and there are no quick solutions. People basically need information about the loss of a tragic event: What happened? What does it mean for me? How does it affect me? What can I do? This provides the opportunity to offer education as to what the person can expect and what the effects of trauma and grief can be. This fundamental understanding will legitimize the process that the person is going through and lets them know that their emotions and reactions, while complex and difficult, are in fact natural. 3. Reacting to the feelings The telling of the story in words inevitably plunges the person into profound grief. Frequently, people resist mourning, not only out of fear, but also out of pride. We want people to think we can “handle it” and surrendering to emotions is often difficult. People progress best when their feelings are legitimized and validated. The attitudes, reactions and support of others around them will be powerful influences on their journey of grief. Retelling the story makes the incident a
part of the survivor’s experience, but only one part of it. It may even occur to the survivor that this crisis does not have to define, far less destroy them. However, a word of caution, this counselling must be done with care by those who understand the dangers and triggers of trauma. 4. Empowering the survivors The major goal in the treatment of posttraumatic responses is the empowerment of survivors in light of their trauma by enabling them to gain some sense of control over their lives now as well as throughout the remainder of their lives that will mitigate to some degree the feelings of helplessness. The lives of many thousands of people have been changed forever by the events in Manchester. Coping with victimization is a process that involves rebuilding the assumptive world that has been shattered and incorporating into one’s own identity the experience that “stuff happens” … even in Manchester. As Winston Churchill said in another of Britain’s darkest hours, “We shall draw from the heart of suffering itself the means of inspiration and survival. We shall never give up ... never, never, never!”
First you hurt, then you heal Dr. Bill Webster understands grief not just in theory, but also from personal experience. In his book, “First you Hurt, Then you Heal”, Dr. Bill outlines a road map for the grief journey in a series of articles that take us through the process. He begins with a chapter entitled “I Didn’t Plan for This” that gives people an understanding of what they may experience in the early days after a loss. The book then goes on to give us an understanding of grief, some insights into various situations of loss, and some strategies to help us work through the process. This book will be a helpful resource for those who are going through a grief process as well as containing much relevant and practical information for those who would like to know what they can say and how they can help someone who has experienced a significant loss. It will also serve as a basic knowledge and layman’s guide for those in the helping professions such as nurses, teachers, funeral directors and those who seek to support grieving people, young and old, through their work. “First you Hurt, Then you Heal” provides practical, down to earth and effective insight into one of the most difficult topics and most misunderstood experiences of life. First you Hurt, Then you Heal: A Road Map for the Grief Journey (Kindle Edition) is avaialble to buy on Amazon at £5.51. FuneralTimes | 71
New delivery from Fearghas Quinn The Burkes, Co.Laois, take delivery of acollects new hearse from Fearghas Quinn R. Gibney of Mountrath, Gibneys of Oldcastle Funeral Directors, his new hearse from Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousines. Hearse & Limousines
Pearson Repatriation Service (UK) A small independent family run company offering a fast and reliable service 24 hours a day.
As part of our service to you, we can: • Repatriate the deceased from the UK • Provide a coffin and interior • Provide embalming services
Telephone +44 (0)1484 844289 Proprietor Clive J Pearson LMBIFD. DIP.FD. MBIE Manchester Road, Marsden, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, UK, HD7 6EY 72 | FuneralTimes
New hearse for Condons Funeral Directors Sean Condon of Condons Funeral Directors Ltd, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, pictured with his new hearse, purchased from Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousine
‘Bringing your loved ones es home’
We also repatriate from anywhere ere in Ireland to anywhere in Ireland nd 24hr service Contact one of our experienced repatriation specialists on 0044 28 8284 0806 E: info@repatriationireland.com
www.repatriationireland.com FuneralTimes | 73
Avoid the queues - p go to www.funeraltimes 74 | FuneralTimes
For further details call Ruth, Paula or Gra
pre-register online! stradeshowireland.com
aham on 028 (UK) / 048 (RoI) 3835 5060
FuneralTimes | 75
The new FD is here...
Byrne Coachbuilders Ltd t 042 9334631 / 086 6041227 Coes Rd, Dundalk, Co. Louth
w www.byrnecoachbuilders.ie
GerryWreath McDermott Manufacturer Circular Road, Roscommon
Mob: 086 2544126 or Mob: 086 8205215 76 | FuneralTimes
Classifieds... Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com
Established Funeral Directors in The West of Northern Ireland FOR SALE • Independent funeral business • Prominent trading location in a town • Excellent reputation in the community • Ideal bolt on acquisition • Scope to further develop • Retirement sale For further details send contact information to Funeral Times Box 0418 c/o Funeral Times, 1 Annagh Drive, Carn Industrial Estate, Craigavon, Co. Armagh BT63 5WF
WHAT DOES YOUR
ORDER OF SERVICE SAY ABOUT YOU? Contact Graham or Richard for further details Telephone: (028/048) 3835 5060 or Email:
production@inhousepublications.com
FuneralTimes | 77
Classifieds... Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com
Matthew L. Jones
CUNNINGHAM MEMORIALS
Formerly of Ormeau Road, Belfast
All types of Quality Headstones, Surrounds, Plaques, Vases and Stone Chippings. Renovations and Additional Inscriptions. A Specialty in any Cemetery. Free Estimates All Work Guaranteed
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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 866652 Tel: 01267 236787 (24hrs) email: info@mljfs.co.uk www.matthewljonesfuneralservices.co.uk
FOR SALE
2007 VAUXHALL VECTRA FIRST CALL VEHICLE
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PRICES ON APPLICATION For more information please contact:
T:086 2458489 78 | FuneralTimes
Classifieds... Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com
FOR SALE 90-D MERCEDES HEARSE
• 2Ltr W123 Automatic • Two door but can seat 4 people • 109,500 miles • In great condition • Must be seen to be fully appreciated • Ideal for a second hearse
€2,000 O.N.O. For more information contact
John Keogan T:087 4191101
DAVID McKEON HEARSE HIRE Sunnagh Beg, Cloone, Co. Leitrim
24 HR SERVICE Long or short term hire Nationwide CONTACT ROI Mobile: 087-8045115 / 087-2981956 / 071-9636000
• Provincewide service available • Experienced Drivers
JBFS
PAIR OF MERCEDES LIMOUSINES (6 DOOR) • MERCEDES HEARSE AVAILABLE
For enquiries please conact James on
Mob: 077 3428 3181/Tel: 028 3884 9151 or visit: www.jamesbartonfuneralservices.co.uk or email: jamesbarton75@gmail.com
FuneralTimes | 79
Classifieds... Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com
FOR SALE 2007 LEXUS LS 600L
• 5.0L Hybrid (Long Wheel Base) • Full Lexus service history • 100k miles • Very good condition • Ideal car for a funeral director or may also be used as a wedding car
Bespoke Branded Bags Range of finishes and 100’s of colours available Branded Bags suitable for altar gifts, cards, etc. Orders of 250 units upwards now available ‘Precious Memories’ Generic Bags Available in 50 units
PRICE ON APPLICATION
Call Adrienne Peers for quotations & samples
For more information please contact David on
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PATRICK RYAN
WHAT DOES YOUR
T: 07850 067283
& DAUGHTER FUNERAL DIRECTORS
ORDER OF SERVICE SAY ABOUT YOU?
SPECIALISING IN REPATRIATION TO ALL PARTS OF IRELAND
TEL: 020 8567 1664 FAX: 020 8566 4795 6 South Ealing Road, London W5 4QA Email: office@pryanfunerals.com Website: PATRICK-RYAN.CO.UK
Contact Graham or Richard for further details Telephone: (028/048) 3835 5060 production@inhousepublications.com
COVERING LONDON AND THE HOME COUNTIES
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Frank Keogh & Sons Funeral Repatriation Services
Large Mid Ulster Funeral Director Business requires a
Woodbrook, Bray Co.Wicklow Telephone:
ROI - 086 8440208 NI - 00353 86 8440208
Quality Embalmer Please send details and C.V. to Funeral Times Box 0419 c/o Funeral Times, 1 Annagh Drive, Carn Industrial Estate, Craigavon, Co. Armagh BT63 5WF
MATCHING 2008 MERCEDES E CLASS HEARSE E280 AND 2005 MERCEDES LIMOUSINE E 270 CDI
FULLY SERVICED BY MAIN DEALER FROM NEW
For more information contact 0035387 2366203 FuneralTimes | 81
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Call +44 (0)20 8684 2324
Contact Fintan: 07770 442113 or Peter: 07565 085659
FOR SALE
Hearses For Sale
2002 VAUXHALL LIMOUSINE
2008 Black Mercedes Eclass • 30,000 miles • Auto • Air con • NCT & taxed to 2018 PRICE: €35,000
info@rowlandbrothersinternational.com www.rowlandbrothersinternational.com
• 2198cc Petrol • Psvd to Jan 2018 • Good Condition
PRICE: £2,150 ono For more information please Contact Enniskillen T: 02866 322071 82 | FuneralTimes
2010 Black Ford Mondeo • 25,000 miles, • Auto • Air con, • NCT & taxed to 2018 PRICE: €30,000 Please contact Sean Feehily, Sligo
T: 087 2411114
Launching the New Wilcox Jaguar XF 3 Door Hearse
A stylish new addition to this prestigious range of funeral vehicles
Specification The new Wilcox 3 door Jaguar XF Hearse available now. Optional glass roof, offering greater visibility and light. ■ 2 year warranty ■ Jaguar approved convertor ■ British designed and built Exceptional Value For Money
www.limousines.co.uk
Head Office
+44 (0) 1753 480 600 enquiries@wilcoxlims.co.uk