Ft iss 5 2015 by Inhouse

The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland

2015 Vol.15 No 5

CPL FUNERAL SUPPLIES

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

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FuneralTimes | 1

The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland

Q and A with President William........................... 12

Massey Bros. charity in tune with community . . 18

Contents

Columbarium wall at Newlands Cross.............42

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

Industry mourns a gentleman Eamon Glennon obituary.............................................5 Funeral Times Trade Show at Citywest.......................6 First Irish President for NAFD................................... 12 Are you living the dream? Nora Murphy on her dream move to Ireland . ......... 14 Massey staff charity hits the right note...................... 18 IAFD News.................................................................. 20 Padraic Cawley is the right man, in the right place at the right time....................................... 34 Newlands Cross announce a second congregation space...................................................... 42 PEAI News................................................................... 44 Don’t drop the coffin Barry Albin-Dyer obituary......................................... 46 BIE News..................................................................... 48 NAFD News..................................................................54 To do, or not to do - Dr Bill Webster......................... 60 What a show! By Mary Elizabeth Dillon.................. 63 SAIF News................................................................... 64 “I’m glad I got to see him" - Tom Sherman...............72 Mattie Lennon at the round table..............................75 Classifieds..................................................................... 81

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

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Obituary Eamon Glennon

There was a widespread sense of sadness when, early on Sunday morning 27th September last, Eamon Glennon died in his home on the outskirts of Longford Town, surrounded by his family. Eamon had lived and worked in Longford for most of his 75 years.

amon was the founder of Eamon Glennon Ltd., which he set up in 1963. He started in a small sawmill which produced a few coffins for the local market. With hard work, determination and great foresight, he developed the company into one of the leading suppliers to the funeral industry in Ireland. The company has grown over the years and now incorporates manufacturing, funeral and monumental divisions. The company has a large base of loyal customers spread all over the country, many of whom have been dealing with them since their inception. As a funeral director, he was well regarded for his sympathetic manner and capable organisational skills. Eamon was highly respected within the funeral profession and held the roles of both National Secretary and President of the Irish Association of Funeral Directors (I.A.F.D). Eamon has been described in many ways - a GAA man, a fisherman, a community man, a business man, a family man and a gentleman. Large numbers attended both the funeral home and indeed St Mel’s Cathedral for the Funeral Mass, with guards of honour from Longford Bridge Club, Longford Chamber of Commerce, Longford Gun Club, Longford Slashers GAA club and the staff of Eamon Glennon Ltd. Eamon had a great love of sport, he represented Longford Slashers GAA club at all levels and indeed played as a goalkeeper for the county team. As Eamon was carried into Ballymacormack cemetery, the guard of honour from the local GAA club included men he had played with in the 1950’s and 60’s and also players from the current team. His casket was draped with the club’s pale blue and white colours as a reminder of the importance of the GAA to him and the Glennon family. He loved the outdoors and especially fishing or boating on Lough Ree and other favourite waterways. Eamon had a rare gift for helping people, always quietly, always without fuss. He also had a rare gift for living and loving life, and people. He will be sorely missed. A devoted family man, Eamon is survived by his wife Breda, daughter Helen, sons Martin, Niall and David, his beloved grandchildren, his sisters Anne and Mary, brothers Denis and James, daughters in law, son in law, relatives and friends.

Trade Show at Citywest keeps on growing T

he Funeral Times Trade Show Ireland® 2015 which took place at Citywest Conference Centre, Saggart, Co. Dublin at the end of September was a huge success according to reports from exhibitors and visitors. Numbers attending and the value of business transacted reached new highs. Almost a thousand people attended the show over the two days - a record for a ‘trade only’ funeral expo. Visitor numbers were up 15% on the previous event in 2013. “The show has become an eagerly

The official opening of the show L-R; William Millar, President NAFD; Graham Brown, Funeral Times; Joe McNamara, Chairperson PEAI; Craig Caldwell, President BIE and John Foley, Vice President IAFD

Gerry from Gerry McDermott Wreaths 6 | FuneralTimes

anticipated fixture on the Irish expo calendar”, says Ruth McQuillan, show director. “We were very pleased with the number of traders wanting to exhibit this year which was more than in 2013”. “We had to squeeze everybody in but the feedback has been very positive and there was a great buzz about the place. I think everybody enjoyed themselves,” she added. The trade show was officially opened by John Foley, Vice President IAFD and William Millar, President NAFD.

Vintage carriage on display

Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousine L-R: Paula, Paddy and Debbie and Fearghas Quinn

The educational seminars and meetings organised by professional bodies - which included a number of eminent guest speakers - were well received. A highlight was the Trade Show Dinner sponsored by BIE. The two hundred guests were addressed by Craig Caldwell, President BIE and Graham Brown, publisher Funeral Times. We are pleased to announce that the Funeral Times Trade Show Ireland速 2017 will be held on Tuesday 3rd and Wednesday 4th October 2017. The venue will be the same, Citywest, and plans are already in place for an even bigger show two years hence. If you would like information on the next show, please contact Ruth McQuillan on T: 028/048 3835 5060

Coffin weaving with Green Coffins Ireland

Elegant Send Off releasing doves to signify opening the show Henry Black, Past President IAFD with Lisa Webster, Treasured Keepsakes

Gyln Tallon demonstrates the fine art of reconstruction

Celtic Coffins

Dara Gillespie, Jim Conlon, Dermot Sharpe, Martin Carroll and John McArdle from Finlay Group

Visitors enjoying what the show had to offer FuneralTimes | 7

Desy Stevenson and Pauline Gilmore, Eco Coffins Direct Gerard Campbell, GM Canopies

Martina Burns and Clare Rooney from DJ MacNeice

L-R: Glyn Tallon, Tallon Mortuary Specialists, Karl Wenzel, Dodge and Nora Murphy, Tallon Mortuary Specialists

Charlene and Zoe Waldron from Elegant Send Off

Some of the vehicles on display from Duffy Coachbodies

L-R: Nigel Giles and Tony Trott, Esposti 8 | FuneralTimes

Adam Foudy, Funerals Live

Ryan from Ryan Sheals and Son

Some of the coffins on display from Curtis Coffins

Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, Colin Bell and Kevin Heaney

Vintage Hearse Hire Ian Ledwith and Tom Coburn, Eamon Glennon Ltd.

Derek and Colin McGowan, Fingal Memorials

Mary Patricia Dillon and Mary Elizabeth Dillon, Civil Funerals Ireland

A selection of items from The Directors Cut stand

Doing business with SNA Software Systems

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FuneralTimes | 11

First Irish President Trust, support and collaboration are the themes which William Millar will focus on during his year as Ireland’s first president of the NAFD.

reland has it’s first president of the National Association of Funeral Directors. William Millar is a director in the third generation independent family business of Ivan Murdock and Sons in Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, which serves the local communities of the Causeway Coast area. William has worked in the family business from his early teens. He is a graduate of the University of Dundee and a holder of the NAFD Diploma in Funeral Directing. Following his inauguration on 17th May 2015, William became the first member of the NAFD Northern Ireland Area Federation to be elected President. We caught up with William at the Funeral Times Trade Show at Citywest. The year as President is a hectic one and William opened the show alongside John Foley of the IAFD before flying off to an official function in Leeds on the Tuesday evening and returning to Dublin for a round of meetings with new NAFD Chief Executive Mike Owen. We fitted in a quick Q&A with William about his plans and intentions for his year in office.

So William, how are you enjoying your year as President? I can’t believe it is almost half over already. Things are just so busy and you get swept along with events. But it has been great, and serving as Second Vice President and then First Vice President certainly prepares the President for what to expect. You are pretty well up to speed with what is going on and what is coming down the track before taking office. 12 | FuneralTimes

Of course there are always the unexpected events which have to be dealt with, but we have a great team at the NAFD who have seen it all before. I can honestly say that Alison and I have enjoyed the year so far immensely. Have you any particular goals for your year in office? The NAFD have short, medium and long term goals which we are all signed up to and these include promoting professionalism in the industry as set out in our Code of Practice and Code of Professional Standards and also continuing our work with the parliamentary/assembly groups to ensure that legislation brings a fair deal for families and funeral directors. I am conscious though of being the first President from Ireland and want to help build a strong and lasting relationship with other Associations on the island. We all work towards the same goals and it is important that the industry speaks with one voice where possible. The themes for my year in office are trust, support and collaboration. These are the cornerstones of our profession, as families trust us to look after their loved one, we in turn trust our suppliers, stakeholders and staff to collaborate and support each other to make the entire funeral experience for the bereaved families we serve the very best and of the highest standards we would expect and deserve for our own loved ones. You find yourself in office when new Chief Executive of the NAFD Mike Owen takes over. What are your first impressions? Mike is a very impressive guy. I was

delighted that he came over to Dublin to meet with me at Citywest. We got straight down to business and there is no doubt that he understands the role. Mike has an impressive CV with experience in all the right sectors to make a huge success of his job as Chief Executive of the NAFD. What about your day job? It seems a long time since I only had to worry about working in a busy funeral directors in Coleraine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to get back. At the moment my week typically consists of working through the days on funerals, trying to catch up with NAFD business in the evenings when the phone doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ring and heading off to the airport on Friday afternoon to attend an event somewhere over the weekend. Alison and I both work in Ivan Murdock and Sons so we know the pressure we are putting on the rest of the staff, but the support has been great and everyone has understood that we have a great many commitments over the course of this year. Mind you, I reckon we wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get many weekends off next year!

There are a lot of favours which are going to get called in! Are you enjoying your Presidential year? Oh yes. I think it is important to really embrace the term in office. The opportunity to meet so many funeral directors and those from associated industries is really educational. I have learnt so much, mainly that, although we all do things differently, we are all trying to do the best we can for the families who come to us in their hour of need. There isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t only one way to do things and as long as we work within the Code of Practice and Code of Professional Standards there are lots of ways to provide a service. I have learnt a lot and had a lot of fun doing it. I also enjoy teaching funeral directors in the UK about the attractions of a traditional Irish funeral. They still canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand how we manage to arrange everything inside three days. Maybe a second year in office would be a good thing. Though Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not sure my colleagues at Ivan Murdock and Sons would agree!

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Are you living the dream or in a dream state? By Nora A. Murphy, MBIE

he lights of a new city can flood your mind with an array of mixed emotions from every end of the spectrum, regardless if your move is temporary, permanent, for college, to start a career, miles away, or for me, this time around, an OCEAN away. I feel confident in saying my parents had the right inclination in giving me the nickname “Nora the Explorer” at the age of two, knowing that I was their little independent, adventurous girl. As a big dreamer, I consistently set large goals for myself and set out with great ambition to achieve them. Most would tell you that I take pride in my Irish heritage and have always said my ticket to Ireland would be one way; never in my wildest dreams believing that would eventually become my reality. Not until I realised you can in fact make your dreams come true if you put your mind to it. It was upon that realisation that I became determined and promised myself never to settle until I felt I was where I belong in this wild ride called life. Perhaps it was fate that I fell under the wings of two highly respected embalmers, Jack Adams and Vernie Fountain, presenting at a conference in Tennessee, but they always tell me it was my drive and dedication of wanting to become a reconstruction specialist that they saw in me. It is truly amazing how life works sometimes, because before I knew it one of my newfound mentors, and friend, was encouraging me to make a visit to Ireland to meet reconstruction specialist and

14 | FuneralTimes

embalmer, Glyn Tallon. The two weeks I spent working alongside Glyn and his brother, Fionan, was beyond incredible and highly educational to say the least. It became even more surreal when it was made known to me that they wanted to take me on as an addition to their team. So what did I do with this life altering proposition? Without hesitation, I boldly took a leap of faith to chase my biggest (and quite possibly wildest) dream yet. I cleaned out my apartment, sold my car, along with the rest of my belongings aside from enough to fill a few suitcases, and, with my one-way ticket, ventured off to the Emerald Isle. In addition to the fortuity of this great opportunity to continue my success growing as an embalmer and reconstruction specialist, I get to do so in an entirely new culture. The Irish Wake is worlds apart from what would be considered “traditional” in America, and to be honest, I am still fascinated by the Irish ways more and more every day. The Irish honour their dead in a way that is nearly unique to the rest of the world. They mourn their loved ones in the comfort of their own homes, where the deceased may even return to lie in the warmth of their own bed for what could be days before the funeral ceremony. Often, the demand for the deceased to be home with their families following death can be immediate. In most circumstances, the interval of time from death to the return of

the deceased to their home, autopsied and straight cases alike, may only be a matter of hours; embalming, dressing and coffining included. So as an embalmer, you can imagine the challenges that may be faced with these particular rituals. One simply cannot arrive early at the funeral home in the morning to check the remains to make sure that every detail is still presentable for a family, but one must entrust in their skills as an embalmer to KNOW that every detail will remain presentable for a family. Fortunately, this was not a new concept for me, for the importance of covering every basis of precautionary measures was taught to me as an apprentice and carried through the first few years as a young embalmer from my mentor, colleague and friend, Laura Radtke. Her passion for perfection and quirky words of wisdom has (and will) always travelled with me in my life’s endeavour as an inspiring embalmer; and now that my eyes are open to an entirely new experience, I am even more appreciative for her “tough-love” style of guidance. Working with Glyn has been a great continuation of principals carried forth from my preceding mentors. An embalmer filled with such knowledge and skill, yet a man of great patience and determination, I could not of asked for more in a colleague to work side by side with and learn from every day. The transition from Funeral Director/ Embalmer to that of a Trade Embalmer was unique in itself, but he makes it interesting and provides enjoyability in our everyday work. One of the many concepts I have retained thus far is while the importance of a clean, functional preparation area is imperative, Glyn has shown how in circumstances where this is not readily available, one can still thoroughly provide the services that are called upon us as embalmers, especially when operating outside of our premises. He carries a similar concept regarding all remains entrusted to our care at our facility, particularly those with problematic conditions or requiring reconstructive work. He certainly exudes a “think outside of the box” attitude and has unknowingly opened my eyes to endless possibilities within our profession. Not that

I was ever skeptical, perhaps just lacking the appropriate training, but I am now a firm believer in the saying, and quite possibly Glyn’s favourite saying, “where there is a will, there is a way”. Admirable and inspiring for me to watch, Glyn embraces each individual case with open arms and a creative mind, regardless of the task at hand, ensuring every detail is meticulously reviewed and acceptable to return home to a grieving family. Engaging with the Tallon brothers on a daily basis not only formed lasting friendships but also provides an enjoyable, natural and educational work environment. Both Glyn and Fionan have introduced me to a new world of embalming and boundless opportunities, inflating my eagerness and enthusiasm to continue to flourish as an embalmer. It is only the beginning of my limitless journey in Ireland, and I have already stood witness to the fact that, besides the very minimal of circumstances, no task is too large nor trauma too severe, leading to the most important; no coffin (or casket) should ever have to be closed. While my relocation to Ireland was not my first move in order to chase my career path, I am absolutely certain it will be my last. My instinctual desire to never settle until I had knowingly found my niche, my true place of belonging undeniably was a rigorous process, but well worth every up and down along the journey. I have finally found my place I can call home. Although a decision to move to another city, state, country or even from your current situation may not be desirable or suitable for all, one can still achieve the reward of success by continually chasing your dreams and conquering your goals. A being of ambitious nature, I will never settle for less and will always maintain focus on continuing to better myself as an embalmer and an individual. With a little nudge from Glyn’s passion and drive for what he does, I have already set new goals. I no longer view the potential words of a mis- or uninformed bystander or the unfortunate naysayer, “it cannot be done” as negativity, but as a challenge. I have always loved a good challenge and I look forward to overcoming any and all that are sent in my direction. FuneralTimes | 15

There is no doubt that I have made mistakes in my life, but from those I have learned and I have no regrets. I have taken courageous leaps and blindly moved across the U.S. twice, to start and continue my career, where I worked for and beside wonderful colleagues. I have had people question my maneuvers and try to bring me down, but I have also met and made many friends, encouraging me along the way. My desire to continue my education and further my skillset as an embalmer and reconstructive specialist will always be strong, but my passion and devotion for what I do will always be stronger. I see all of the aforementioned, both the good and the bad, as motivation. Without all of these contributing factors, I would not have been led through the chain of events that eventually landed me here in Ireland, where I am now living out my wildest dream, which, with much determination, I made come true. If anything is to be gained from my endeavour, it is the following message: I too often hear people say the word “cannot”; a

word of negativity that should be deleted from our vocabulary. If you feel you cannot, try again, and again and again, but never give up. Anything is possible, you just have to want whatever it may be enough to make it possible, and then make it happen! Life is not linear, there will be trying times of ups and downs with positives and negatives. We must use these as incentives and at no time ever give up on making our dreams our reality or lose sight of our passion for what we do. Always remember, “Where there is a will, there is a way!”, so get out of your dream state and start living your dreams! The sky is the limit if you allow it to be. In closing, I’d like to share a quote my friend recently shared with me: It takes a level of love, faith, dedication and determination to live your greatest life. So, look within. Look at every aspect of your life and ask yourself: Am I on course? Am I growing mentally, emotionally and spiritually? Anything that is blocking that, anything that is preventing you from living your greatest life… make the tough decision to let it go.

Tallon Mortuary Specialists 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 both Distance Learning and attended courses leading to membership of the British Institute of Embalmers 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. For further information and to discuss how this course might work for you contact:

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Community Care Foundation choir perform at the National Concert Hall

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his year marks the fifth anniversary of the Community Care Foundation, a registered charity that was established by the staff of Massey Bros. Funeral Directors (which has 11 branches located across Dublin) to raise money to help support local community groups and families in need throughout Dublin. To date, the charity has raised more than €125,000, predominantly through a series of concerts performed by the Friends of Hope Choir whose membership comprises an eclectic mix of professional and amateur singers, all of whom have united together to support the cause. October 6th saw, for the first time ever, the Friends of Hope Choir perform with the Dublin Concert Orchestra at the National Concert Hall. The concert, entitled A Gift of Music, comprised a musical journey through the sounds of stage and screen, culminating in the world premiere of an incredible new work by the choir’s conductor, Irish composer and musician Damian Gallagher.

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IAFD News Dear Members I hope you are all well and busy. Members update: I would like to thank all those who attended our Regional Meeting in Dundalk on 17th September and also those who visited our stand at the Funeral Times Trade Show on 29th and 30th September. It was good to see interest in our Association. Education: A new course for the Certificate in Funeral Practice has begun and I wish every success to all the candidates who are taking part in this course. Website: The website has undergone some changes in the recent months as part of a process of modernisation. Correspondence regarding the progress of the changes has been sent to membership. If there are any changes to be made to the membership section please email pro@iafd.ie. Meetings: The AGM and Dinner will take place at the Oriel Hotel Ballincollig, Co. Cork on 21st November 2015. Tickets for the dinner are available from Orla Nolan at 0818 935 000 or 0800 912 1500. New Members: I would like to welcome the following to membership of the Irish Association of Funeral Directors. Full Member: Joseph Daly & Sons, Francis St., Ennis, Co. Clare and Pat McHugh Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

Associate Members: Crematoria: Lakelands Crematorium, Cavan. Civil Celebrants: Padraic Cawley M.I.C.F. Mary Elizabeth Dillon, Civil Funerals Ireland. 20 | FuneralTimes

IAFD News Bereavements: I would like to convey the sympathy of the Board and Membership of the Association, to the families and friends of the late Mr Eamon Glennon, Longford, Past President of the Irish Association of Funeral Directors 2001 to 2002 and Mr Sean Sheridan, Funeral Director, Mullagh, Co Cavan, who died recently. May they rest in peace. Yours sincerely,

President

Why Join the IAFD? For just a little more than €1cent a day you get: • Professional Indemnity Insurance

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• Excellence Programme • Board of Funeral professionals available to assist Members • Complaints Procedure • Dispute Resolution and Mediation • Legal Advisory Service • Links to other trade Associations FuneralTimes | 21

IAFD News Michael Crowley (President) Crowley Funeral Directors Bothar Saclay, Ballincollig, Co. Cork. Phone: 021 4874777 Email: info@crowleyfuneraldirectors.ie Henry Black (Immediate Past President) Henry Black Funeral Directors Springbank, Rushbrooke, Cobh Phone: 021 4811630 Mobile: 087 2544106 Gerard Clarke (First Vice President) Gerard Clarke & Sons Funeral Home Main Street, Balisodare, Sligo Ph: 071 9130700 Mobile: 087 2565310 Email: gerardclarkeandsons@eircom.net John Foley (Hon. Treasurer and Second Vice President) Jennings Funeral Directors 81 Amien Street Dublin 1 Ph: 01 8555511 Mary Cunniffe (Hon. Secretary) Massey Bros Funeral Home Templeogue Village, Dublin 6W Mobile: 085 8010742, Ph: 014 907601 Email: mary.cunniffe@hotmail.com

Graham Gleasure (PRO) The Gleasure Funeral Home Matt Talbot Road, Tralee Ph; 066 7123079 fax; 066 7123193 Mobile: 086 2581443 Email: graham@gleasures.ie James Brown Funeral Services Northern Ireland Ltd. 300 Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 1HF Email: jb@james-brown.info Colm Kieran Kieran Bros. Funeral Directors Kingscourt, Co. Cavan Mobile: 087 6218740 , Ph: 042 9667309 Email: colmkiernan@gmail.com Dermot McCarthy McCarthy’s Funeral Home Gurrane, Banteer, Cork. Ph: 029 56044 Email: dermot@mccarthy-auctioneer.com Mary O’Shea O’Shea’s Funeral Directors New Street, Killarney Ph: 064 6637123 Email: osheatim@eircom.net

Joanne Cooney (Education Committee - Chair) 4 Robert Street, New Ross, Co. Wexford. Ph: 051 421416 Mobile 087 8180676 Email: joanne@cooneysfuneralhome.com

www.iafd.ie 22 | FuneralTimes

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Robinsons take delivery of the first new model Mondeo hearse W

illiam and Wilma Robinson are the first funeral directors in the British Isles to take delivery of the New Mondeo Hearse. Based on the latest model from Ford, the vehicle was produced by Co. Antrim coachbuilders Fearghas Quinn, Hearse & Limousine. William said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are delighted to be the first Funeral Directors in the UK with a 2015 New Model Mondeo Hearseâ&#x20AC;?. Fearghas wishes Robinson Funeral Directors continued success in their business.

William and Wilma Robinson pictured with their new Mondeo hearse supplied by Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousine

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GM Canopies celebrating 10 years of service G

M Canopies is celebrating ten years supplying Vitabri ‘professional’ funeral canopies to funeral directors in Ireland and the U.K. Vitabri funeral canopies are manufactured in France to a very high standard, sourcing quality materials and fabrics from Italy, France and Germany. All Vitabri canopies are available in fourteen frame sizes and thirty three colours. Personalised printing, as requested by each funeral director, is completed at the Vitabri manufacturing plant in France to ensure that work is carried out to the highest standard using specialised printing techniques with experienced graphic designers in this field. To celebrate our 10th. anniversary GM Canopies is extending the offer of FREE

Gerard Campbell, GM Canopies at the Funeral Times Trade Show ‘PERSONALISED’ PRINTING on all ‘Vitabri ‘professional’ canopies purchased before 31st. December 2015 For Further information contact: GM Canopies 183 Tamlaght Road, Omagh, Co Tyrone. BT78 5LL. Tel: 028 8224 4025 Mob: (+0044) (0)7778 345074 or ring Rep. of Ireland mobile: 087 9515019

GM Canopies GM Canopies is the sole distributor in N. Ireland and the Rep. of Ireland for Vitabri canopies, tables and accessories. Vitabri canopies are manufactured in fourteen sizes and thirty-three colours. Our graphics and printing department can design and print to your exact specifications. 183 Tamlaght Road, Omagh, Co. Tyrone BT78 5LL Tel: 028 8224 4025 Fax: 028 8224 3338 (Rep. of Ireland. prefix 048) Email: gmcanopies@btinternet.com www.gmcanopies.com FuneralTimes | 27

DJ MacNeice on another great show A

fter the success of the inaugural show two years ago, DJ Mac Neice once again took up a stand and exhibited at the Funeral Times trade show in Citywest, and what a show it was This year had a lot to live up to given the 2013 show proving such a runaway success, especially considering it was the first one held. Our concern was short lived as this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s show was just as good, if not better. The standard of all stands was extremely high this year, you just had to walk around the exhibition hall to see how much time and effort was put into displaying products and laying out pitches by companies who were exhibiting. We ourselves had all new display units made this year, so our products were displayed to the fullest. Coffins seemed to be one of the big features this year, with a large portion of the exhibition space displaying various ranges. There were some new and really innovative designs on display. For those who still like to mount and line their own coffin we had our full range of handles on display, including our new round bar oval back plate gold handle which was thoroughly well received. For those interested in lining we had a coffin fully kitted out with a lining set, side sheet and pillow. The quality of the material was complimented by many people. The item that generated most interest in 28 | FuneralTimes

our stand was our coffin positioner. People seem to really like the concept. We set it up so it could be tried and tested, allowing people to get a good feel of how it works and its benefits. The one we displayed this year was new and improved, with each leg fully and independently adjustable. The clasps for putting it together have been improved and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s now even easier for one person to assemble. For the embalmers in attendance we had plenty to offer. As well as our established range of PCS registered embalming fluid, we had our new range of nitrile gloves; thick enough to use while embalming, they provide full protection from bodily fluids and chemicals. We also had demonstrations of our Dinair kit which is an air brush makeup set, ideal for use in the mortuary setting. At DJ Mac Neice we value excellent customer service and the show was a great opportunity to get to meet our customers who attended. We value your custom greatly and look forward to doing business with you in the future. For more information, please contact: DJ Mac Neice & Co Ltd., 37a Barrow Road, Dublin Industrial Estate, Glasnevin, Dublin 11 T: 01-8828731 sales@djmacneice.com

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Bring your loved ones home By Pat McAtee, Repatriation Ireland

s a funeral director, I was asked a few years ago to bring a family’s loved one home from the United Kingdom. The first thing I did after the initial panic wave had subsided, was start to contact repatriation firms in the United Kingdom to enquire as to what the correct procedure was. I found this extremely frustrating as I was dealing with repatriation firms and coroner’s offices whilst getting no answers. As we gradually got things sorted and the remains was en-route, I began to worry about what coffin the deceased would be in, would we be able to open the coffin, what condition would the deceased be in, and all the concerns that go along with the unexpected. After that experience I decided that if I was in that position again I would handle

Patrick McAtee of Repatriation Ireland

the repatriation myself and so began Repatriation Ireland. That was five years ago and since then we have gone from strength to strength, repatriating loved ones to funeral directors all over Ireland and Northern Ireland. At Repatriation Ireland we offer a unique service where we will bring the deceased to your funeral parlour or premises where you

Repatriation Ireland Repatriation Specialists 24 H Hrr SService ervice

‘Bringing yourr loved ones home’ Contact one of our experienced international repatriation specialists on t:0044 28 8284 0806 E: info@repatriationireland.com

www.repatriationireland.com Contact one of our experienced international 30 | FuneralTimes

will be able to organise and plan the full funeral service as if the deceased had died at home. This allows funeral directors to work with the family to select their preferred coffin, and attire and handle every detail as usual. We can offer repatriation from the United Kingdom within 24- 36 hours after the responsible coroner has issued the required documentation. We will also keep you informed at every step, and give you a full report on the deceased’s condition. Repatriation Ireland provides a service of the highest standard for the bereaved, in a courteous and dignified manner when bringing someone back to Ireland from the United Kingdom. We work solely with funeral directors and insurance companies both in Ireland and the UK. We handle all the paper work and logistics. All we need from you is a name and the details of the coroner’s officer and we can do the rest. In particular we have built strong links with UK Coroner’s Officers and funeral directors in both Ireland and the UK.

Whatever the circumstances we will make the process as smooth and as easy as possible. We will be able to help and guide you every step of the way. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We are experienced in arranging repatriations and invite you to contact us for a no obligation consultation and estimate of costs. • Collection of the deceased from anywhere in England, Scotland or Wales • Embalming and hygienic treatment for repatriation (legal requirement) • Liaising with coroner, consulate and embassies to obtain legal documentation • No obligation consultation and estimate of costs. Contact one of our experienced repatriation specialists on T:004428 8284 0806 or email: info@repatriationireland. com to discuss your specific requirements. You can log onto our website www. repatriationireland.com or Facebook. We will explain to you the entire process and answer any questions you may have.

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The right man, in the right place, at the right time! “We never get a call for that type of funeral down our part of the country” was a familiar cry from many of the rural undertakers at the first Trade Show in 2013. There was a suspicion, and a fear of what I was about with, as one undertaker called ‘foreign funerals’! But how perceptions have changed in the last two years. At this years Trade Show, there was much more of an acceptance from funeral directors that the type of funeral that is now being asked for may not necessarily involve a formal church service. I found that those who visited my stand were very clued in to what I was about, and could see that the option of a Civil Funeral

CIVIL FUNERAL CEREMONIES Padraic Cawley MICF Civil Funeral Celebrant

was indeed one that they could offer to any family who were unsure how to give their loved one a final farewell without the

Celebrating the life of the deceased, reflecting their personal beliefs, wishes, values and traditions.

Padraic Cawley, MICF Civil Funeral Celebrant

087 267 6050 View my Profile on Linkedin 34 | FuneralTimes

padraic@padraiccawley.ie www.padraiccawley.ie

constraints of a structured church service. I have been writing articles here in Funeral Times, among other publications, and have participated in radio interviews, trying to educate the public, and you the funeral professionals about the option of a Civil Funeral. It’s been hard work, but over the last while there has been a surge in the number of funerals that I have conducted. That’s in no small part down to you the funeral director, who has the confidence in offering an alternative type of ceremony. This also reflects well on your business, as you are entrusting your family to me, a fully qualified civil funeral celebrant, who is also a member of a professional regulatory body. As part of my involvement with this years show, I was asked to present a paper on Civil Funerals as part of the seminar programme. Over the last four years I have officiated at ceremonies attended by The President of Ireland, have had others recorded, and mentioned in various media outlets. But to deliver a script to my fellow professionals

was the most daunting! Your own associates are always the most critical, but thankfully, all those who attended were full of praise, and were thankful for my explaination of the difference between a Civil and a Humanist service. Thank you to those of you who attended, especially those who came from the far side of the country to listen to my presentation. I am very humbled indeed. There were still a few undertakers who were unsure of the ‘Foreign Funeral’, but one such funeral director while attending the show on the second day got a call from a family, and yes, you guessed it – they wanted a civil funeral !! “You’re the right man in the right place at the right time” he said. There I was, looking forward to heading home. Instead I was, with my car full of folding tables and chairs, hurtling down the N4 to meet a family in the heart of the country. I love how this business can change in a heart beat!

FuneralTimes | 35

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 oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

Trade show success for Treasured Keepsakes T

reasured Keepsakes would like to thank everyone who took the time to visit their stand at the recent Funeral Times Trade Show. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was great to catch up with our existing clients and show them some of our new products. We also had the pleasure of meeting funeral directors who we had not dealt with before and plenty of business was done on the day and the following week. I would like to thank everyone at Funeral Times for organising yet another successful event and for giving us the opportunity to exhibitâ&#x20AC;? said Liza. Treasured Keepsakes have Brass Urns, Hardwood Urns, Eco Urns, Brass Keepsakes and Keepsake Pendants all in stock just waiting on your call. If you would like to use their service and enhance your business by giving the choice of a wide selection of

products to your clients, but at no extra cost to you, please contact Liza or Edward. For more information on how Treasured Keepsakes can work alongside your company contact Liza Webster or Edward Foley on Tel: 01 8254579. From NI: 00353 1 8254579 or email: info@treasuredkeepsakes.ie or visit: www.treasuredkeepsakes.ie

Liza & Edward from Treasured Keepsakes would like to thank you all for your support throughout 2015 and wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for 2016 FuneralTimes | 37

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Funeral Supplies Donegal Ltd. We manufacture and supply: coďŹ&#x192;n and casket side sheets (fall over) coďŹ&#x192;n and casket pads (elastic/tape, black/green/purple) eco friendly linings (cotton & linen) 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

A big thank you! We would like to thank everyone for coming to our stand at the Funeral Times Trade show! We were glad to see that the funeral directors have a keen eye for top quality Irish manufactured coffins and would like to express our thanks to Ruth and all the organisers in the Funeral Times for the smooth running of the Show. Our winner of our prize draw for a Bottle of Champagne, Ferdia Chocolates and a â&#x201A;Ź200 one for all gift voucher was: Patrick & Monica Hickey McNallys Funeral Directors, Balbriggan, Co. Meath

On behalf of all management and staff at Curtis Coffins we would like to wish everyone a Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year in 2016

FuneralTimes | 41

Second congregation spac in Newlands Cross Crema Newlands Cross crematorium

Newlands Cross crematorium has been serving the needs of all those in the Republic of Ireland who wish to use the service of cremation since 2001. The crematorium is one of the most modern in Europe, and the service has been designed to cause the minimum emotional upset to the bereaved mourners.

ewlands Cross Chapel/Temple and grounds are designed with the families of those buried and cremated here in mind. The building consists of three interlocking pavilions - the Temple building (used for cremation services), a beautiful circular cloister meeting area and in early 2016 a second congregations space to also hold cremation services. As part of the further enhancement of the services provided to those who visit and pay their respects to their loved ones, plans for a second chapel space are under way to re-locate an administration building containing offices, monument and florist outlet to an area nearer the entrance. The area will be designed by A & D Wejchert & Partners and will facilitate services with an attendance of 150 people. Two services can then run concurrently 42 | FuneralTimes

Inside the temple building

ce to be made available atorium allowing more time and space to personalise the service to the families needs. Work is expected to commence in early 2016. Glasnevin Trust operates cemeteries in Goldenbridge (1828), Glasnevin (1832), Palmerstown (1978), Dardistown (1990) and Newlands Cross (2000). Newlands Cross is easily accessible from the N7 and from the M50 (Junction 9/10). It is located on Ballymount Road just off the Belgard Road (R113). For more information on all our services www.glasnevintrust.ie or directly to David Thompson Manager of Newlands Cross on T: (01) 4592288

The columbarium wall at Newlands Cross FuneralTimes | 43

www.professionalembalmers.ie

Congratulations and the best of luck to the officers of the Professional Embalmers’ Association of Ireland Joe McNamara, Chairperson (MPEAI, MEAE, MIAFD) Joe is the director of Corrigan and Sons Funeral Directors, Dublin; born into the undertaking business, the fourth generation to run the company. Joe is a part of an unbroken line of family involvement in a company set up by Patrick Corrigan in the latter part of the nineteenth century. He works with three medical schools (UCD, TCD and the Royal College of Surgeons) in Dublin and takes care of the burials or cremations of those who have donated their bodies to medical research. He gained his Degree in Business in University College Dublin and trained in embalming at the Midlands Embalming School, Birmingham. He also earned his Diploma in Funeral Directing in Coventry. Martina Burns, Vice Chairperson (MPEAI, MEAE, MDCA) Martina went to Dundalk Institute of Technology (DIT) for two years and did a course in Business studies. In 2002, she enrolled with The Irish College of Funeral Directing and Embalming in Ballina, Co. Mayo where she received mentorship from Peter J. Ball. While studying, she was offered the opportunity to join the team of embalmers in McGowan’s Funeral Home in Ballina, Co. Mayo and gained her embalming qualification through the European and International Examinations Board of Mortuary Science in 2006. Martina served as the Secretary of PEAI from 2009 until 2015. Michael Clarke, Secretary MPEAI Michael is an embalmer, funeral director and proud culchie from the wilds of county Mayo. He was introduced to the funeral profession in his early teens, receiving his training from McGowan’s Funeral Home, Co. Mayo, and Val O’Connor’s North Gate Bridge, Co Cork. He has a keen interest in funeral

education and holds the position of academic administrator of the Death Care Academy. He is also the coordinator of the embalming course and a manual handling instructor within the DCA. Michael is passionate about death care and believes that modern embalming is central to helping families during the grieving process. Michael continues his work as funeral director and embalmer at Foley and McGowan’s Funeral Directors, Co Sligo. Padraig O’Reilly, Treasurer MPEA, MEAE Having first worked in funeral services from the late 1970’s Padraig joined the health service as Supports Services Manager with responsibility to include mortuary services and family bereavements. While in this role he was part of a working group on Death Dying and Bereavement and they received an award from the Irish Hospice Foundation for the improvement of standards for the dying and their families. He joined Finnegan’s Funeral Services in 2009 and prides himself on the standard of service and support he gives to families at a time that can be of great upset and stress for them. David McGowan, PRO MPEAI David began a career within the funeral industry in the early 1980’s. In 1985 he qualified as an Embalmer through the British Institute of Embalmers, after which he continued his studies at Worsham College of Mortuary Science in Chicago. His interests as a professional embalmer are mainly on the advancement of skills, learning and technology that could benefit everybody involved in funeral and embalming services and above all the families whose lives are touched by the passing away of a loved-one. David is the director of the Irish College of Funeral Directing and Embalming in Ballina, serving students from all over the country. He also owns McGowan’s Funeral Home in Ballina Co. Mayo and Foley & McGowan’s Funeral Home in Sligo City. FuneralTimes | 45

Obituary Barry George Albin-Dyer OBE JP DL

Who died on 20th June 2015

Barry Albin-Dyer was a south London funeral director who became a household name. His autobiography, Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Drop the Coffin led to a TV series and his charismatic personality meant that he was always in demand to speak at events throughout the world. Barry was well known to funeral directors in Ireland through his repatriation division and county Down funeral director Ciaran Heaney, who worked closely with Barry, supplied Funeral Times with the following obituary which appeared in the order of service.

he death of Barry Albin-Dyer robs the funeral industry of one of its most well-known and colourful ambassadors. Following the publication of his autobiography Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Drop the Coffin, a TV series of the same title opened up his south London funeral business to an international audience. As a charismatic individual, Barry embraced the exposure but behind this penchant for publicity was an astute business mind and a committed family man. Born to George and Mary Dyer in 1951, Barry grew up above the premises of FA Albin in Bermondsey where his father worked in partnership with Freddie Albin. Soon involved in behind-the-scene tasks such as polishing the hearse, he progressed to directing funerals before purchasing the business in 1986 whilst also adopting the Albin identity. He established a network of branch offices; opened a supply company and an international repatriation division; founded a pre-need funeral plan and created

a garden for depositing cremated remains. The firm also held the Ministry of Defence contract for the transportation to the UK of those who have died whilst serving in the Armed Forces throughout the world. However, his south London roots ensured his continuing loyalty to the area; he helped save the Southwark News, supported the local football club, and organised a very popular annual remembrance service. He also established The Albin-Dyer Bermondsey & Rotherhithe Foundation for helping local causes, raised funds for the Evelina Children’s Hospital, and was a Patron of Child Bereavement UK. Barry was president of the international organisation FIAT-IFTA between 2004 and 2006, the first British funeral director to have this honour. Barry was a gifted communicator and ran regular bereavement training days for hospitals, care homes, medical students and many other organisations. He wrote a number of books and regularly contributed blogs to the firm’s website. His mixture of charm and tenacity helped smooth many anxious situations and remove obstacles; clients were always given the highest standard of service. His philosophy was based around the saying: “The answer is yes, now what’s the question?” Almost two years ago Barry was diagnosed with brain cancer. He endured much treatment but sadly death came on 6th June 2015 after a short illness. He was surrounded by his partner Jackie, his two sons Simon and Jon, their wives Michelle and Jane respectively and some close friends. May he rest in peace.

Third Wilcox’ Jaguar limousine for Fawcett & Hetherington Funeral Service Ltd.

awcett & Hetherington Funeral Service Ltd was formed in 1993. The independent family business has been serving Greater Eston and the surrounding areas for over 20 years. Owned by Alistair and Pauline Fawcett, their Sons, Terry and Andrew are the second generation in the business. Professional independent family funeral directors they are members of BIFD, NAFD and BIE. Alistair and Pauline were so delighted with the hearse and two limousines purchased earlier in the year, that they quickly decided to increase to a hearse and three limousines. The high specification includes smooth and quiet 3.0 Diesel Engines, Satellite Navigation, Luxury Leather, Bluetooth®, Climate Control, Cruise Control and Alloy wheels. Wilcox & Co (Limousines) Ltd would like

Andrew and Terry Fawcett, standing alongside their latest limousine supplied by Wilcox & Co (Limousines) Ltd. to thank the family for their continued business and wish them every success with their latest purchase. FuneralTimes | 47

BIE News Southern Division

ts hard to believe 2015 is almost over. The Funeral Times Trade Show took place at the Citywest Hotel, Saggart, Co. Dublin on 29th September where we held a joint meeting with the Northern Ireland Division. Both divisions welcomed our National President, Craig Caldwell MBIE and The Irish Division welcomed the Northern Ireland Division Chairman, Michael Ă&#x201C;g McKiernan MBIE and Secretary Margaret Davis MBIE to the meeting as well as all members and students of both divisions. Craig Caldwell presented Denise Doyle MBIE with her membership certificate and we congratulate her and wish her every success in the future. We wish to thank The Funeral Times for the excellent presentations carried out during the show, including Civil Ceremonies presented by Padraic Cawley MICF, New Crematorium at Dardistown presented by Mervyn Colville, Conditions Caused By Medical Science and Drug Intervention presented by Karl D WENZEL CFSP, MBIE, Grief Matters presented by Dr Bill Webster, and The Importance Of Saying Goodbye presented by Glyn Tallon CFSP, MBIE. We ourselves are planning an educational day in the spring of 2016. We wish Barbara Fowley all the best in her future role as second Vice President of the BIE. Our AGM and first quarterly meeting will take place at The Osprey Hotel Naas, Co. Kildare on Sunday 31st January 2016 at 2pm. All members and students will be very welcome. John Hawe

Reminder dates for your diary The Osprey Hotel Naas, Co. Kildare, will host the AGM and first quarterly meeting on Sunday 31st January 2016

Northern Division

he third and final meeting of the Northern Ireland Division for 2015 was held on the 29th September at The Citywest Hotel, Dublin coinciding with the Funeral Times Trade Show. It was a well attended meeting and great to meet up again with our colleagues from the Irish Division. We were delighted to have our National President Craig Caldwell present with us on this occasion. BIE business was undertaken as usual by both divisions with our National President addressing some current issues, including the possible licensing and regulation of the funeral industry, currently under discussion in Scotland. A BIE Certificate was presented to Denise Doyle (Irish Division). We wish Denise well for her future embalming career. Following the meeting, members enjoyed an evening meal sponsored by the BIE. A great evening was had by all! A number of our members were present on the BIE stand over the two show days. This was a wonderful opportunity to network with other funeral service colleagues and to promote our Institute to potential students as well as our attention to other enquiries forwarded by other members and visitors to the show. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Graham and the team at Funeral Times for the provision of our stand at the show and for their continuous support for our Institute.

Chairman

L-R: Mary Hawe, Barbara Fowley, John Hawe and Anna Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly on the BIE stand at the Funeral Times Trade Show at the Citywest Hotel in Dublin FuneralTimes | 49

List of BIE Officers and appointed representatives for 2015/2016 National President: Graeme Easton Scottish Division Imm. Past President: Scott Grigsby R.A. Adams Ltd 117 High Street, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 7QA Mobile: 01268 743102 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 50 | FuneralTimes

Irish Division Chairperson and 1st National Council Representative: Mr John Hawe MBIE 12 Meadow Vale, Smith’s Road, Charleville, Co. Cork Home Tel: 00353 6389280 Mobile: 087 6390087 jmhawe@eircom.net

Northern Ireland Division Chairman Michael Og McKiernan MBIE 51 Agivey Road, Kilrea, Co. Londonderry BT51 5UU Mobile: 07515 746541 Michael-ogmckiernan@hotmail.co.uk

2nd National Council Representative and Past Chairperson: Mr Aidan Walsh MBIE Cappoquin, Co. Waterford Mobile: 00353 87 2847831

Vice Chairman Laurence O'Neill 98 Stewartstown Road Belfast BT11 9JP Tele: 028 90 620099 Email: oneill8210@hotmail.com

National Council Rep & Secretary: Ms Barbara Fowley MBIE Killakee, Rathfarnham Dublin 16 Mobile: 086 191 1022

Secretary Margaret Davis MBIE 4 Back Road, Cargycreevy, Lisburn BT27 6TL Mobile: 07841 100249 Margaretdavis4@me.com

Assistant Secretary: Susan Moran MBIE Maydown House, Aughraboura, Athy, Co. Kildare Mobile: 086 0619500

Treasurer Andrew McMullan MBIE 22 High Street, Ballymoney, Co. Antrim BT53 6AQ Andrew@mcmullanfuneral.com

National Education Representative: Glyn Tallon Mortuary Specialist 14 Academy Street Navan Co Meath Tel:046 9029134 Mobile: 086 826 8876

1st National Council Representative Ellison Sloan MBIE Telephone: 02838 336175 poots@fsni.info

Treasurer: Mrs A O’Reilly MBIE Church Street, Newmarket, Co. Cork Telephone: 029 60142 annaoreilly4@hotmail.com Vice Chairman: Mr Ger O’Sullivan MBIE Mobile: 086 021 5075

2nd National Council Representative Marshall Lindsay MBIE 4 Beechgrove, Kilrea, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT51 5RW Telephone: 028 29 540945 marshalllindsay4@gmail.com 1st National Educational Committee Representative Pat Harley MBIE 67 Creggan Road, Londonderry BT48 9DA Mobile: 077128 99137 Phschoolofembalming@hotmail.com

Eulogica Online Memorial Pages T

here are many different options when it comes to providing online memorial pages for your clients. You can go down the route of designing and building your own solution into your web pages or you can use a third party provider. If you decide to build your own solution then you will have the initial out lay for building the solution and you will also have to ensure you keep it updated as technology moves forward. You should also ensure that search engine optimisation is applied so that people can find these memorial pages if they search for a deceased in a search engine. Web pages should easily be read on mobile and tablet devices as well as on a traditional PC so these pages should also be adaptive. If you decide to use a third party provider then there are many different providers to choose from. Free solutions need to make money somehow and they may include adverts or try to sell your clients products they don’t really want. These sites may also not be designed in your company style and colours. You also have to be careful about sites that claim to use your colours and brand. If you search for the deceased name using a search engine you may end up on a site that looks nothing like your company web page and doesn’t promote your brand. The easy to use Eulogica online memorial pages are always branded with your company style and colours and we will not strip any of this branding away. Due to Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), people searching for a deceased name in a search engine like Google will find your online memorial pages rather than other third party websites where your name may be featured very little, if at all. Some of the benefits of the Eulogica online memorial pages: • Providing a tasteful online memorial page for YOUR clients on YOUR web page • Bringing people to YOUR web page and not to a third party website • Allowing funeral time and place to be spread to a much larger audience than the newspapers provide

• Ability for mourners to print the funeral service details with a map of the venue with YOUR company name and logo on that print out • Allowing your clients to add photographs should they wish to (clients have own login) • Allowing mourners to post condolence messages or simply to light a candle • Streamlining your charity donations process by allowing mourners to make a charity donation online with the ability to add gift aid • Optimised for use on tablet and mobile phone devices • Easy to administer - standalone use or integrated with Eulogica • Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) to promote YOUR web page when people search for the deceased’s name

FuneralTimes | 51

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STRONGER BY ASSOCIATION

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, health and safety 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.

WWW.NAFD.ORG.UK/ WHY-JOIN-THE-NAFD

NAFD News New NAFD Chief Executive Mike Owen visits Funeral Times show I

n mid-September the and opportunities for National Association of membership bodies like the Funeral Directors welcomed NAFD. Mike Owen to his new role Said Mike: “During my first as Chief Executive of the few weeks I have been struck Association. During his first by two things: how friendly month in office, Mike took and welcoming people have time out to pay a visit to the been, and how passionate 2015 Funeral Times Trade and caring they are about this Show in Dublin, along with profession. As a newcomer to current NAFD President the sector, it’s really striking William Millar, giving him and impressive.” an opportunity to meet The loss of his mother in with representatives of the 2014 and the associated profession from across the UK experience of dealing with the and Ireland. end of her life and funeral Born in the north east of Mike Owens, Chief Exceutive of have been a major influence on Mike in taking on the role England, Mike has spent the NAFD of Chief Executive. “Before most of his career, prior to my mother’s death I’d had little exposure joining the NAFD, in London and the south to funerals and it was one of the most east, although he is now based in Malvern. heart-rending periods of my life, learning He describes himself as a “marketing how to deal with my mum’s end-of-life man turned general manager” who has care arrangements,” says Mike. “Although I worked with organisations such as British found the system to be quite disjointed in Telecom, Time Warner Inc., Baker Perkins places, every professional we came across Engineering, Barclays Bank and Lloyds was individually very caring, particularly Bank, as well as acting as a consultant with the wonderfully attentive, caring and Grant Thornton Robson Rhodes. efficient female funeral director, who made He has also led an e-commerce joint the whole process a lot more bearable and venture in the pharmaceutical sector and straightforward than we had feared. It has been managing director for an IT revealed what a wonderful profession software company in the health sector, head funeral directing can be, and this was of planning with a national NHS authority significant in leading me to apply for my and Chief Executive for two professional NAFD role.” membership bodies (most recently at the “I’m now getting stuck into the issues and Service Management Association), which challenges facing the NAFD and the wider has given him insight into the challenges

profession and meeting NAFD member organisations across the country. I’ve always found the feeling of common interest and camaraderie to be one of the great features of member bodies, and I think it is particularly the case at the NAFD.” “Together with all the Executive and National Office team, I will do my very best to serve and represent the NAFD membership and help take this profession to even greater things.” Mike succeeded Alan Slater MBE as Chief Executive, who retired in September having served the profession for more than

sixteen years. During his tenure, Alan was recognised for building successful cross party political groups, securing alliances with like-minded organisations and reaching out, on many occasions, to rival representational bodies in the sector to join forces in the interests of the profession. Upon his retirement from the Association, Alan was made an Honorary Member of the NAFD - a rare and significant award, the first time in the history of the Association that Honorary Membership has been bestowed upon someone who has never worked as a funeral director.

The NAFD acts as the voice of the profession as funeral costs return to prominence

ctober saw the subject of funeral costs and funeral poverty return to prominence in the UK with the annual Royal London Funeral Cost Index Report released, as well as a report into funeral poverty by a group called Church Action on Poverty. Also during the month, the Scottish Government announced that a new report had been commissioned to look at ways of relieving the financial burden and debt that bereaved relatives and friends face when organising a funeral. The topic’s return to the headlines

56 | FuneralTimes

culminated in a Parliamentary debate in Westminster, which resulted in a Ministerial commitment to hold a cross party round table to review concerns about the Social Fund’s performance, transparency and parameters – and how funeral poverty can be addressed. The Royal London report led with the following headlines:1. The cost of a UK funeral has risen by 3.9% in the past year. 2. The average 'basic' funeral now costs £3,702 - a rise of £140 in one year.

3. More than one in ten people struggles with funeral expenses - the average debt being £1,318. 4. The cost of funeral directors’ fees is up 5%. However, some of these figures were immediately contradicted by the Sun Alliance Cost of Dying Report which put the increase in funeral directors’ fees at 1.8%. Similarly, the average cost of a coffin in Royal London’s report was some £500 more than the figure revealed by the NAFD’s own pricing survey. As a result of this unique combination of announcements, the subject received high profile media coverage once again, albeit perhaps a more modest response than in previous years. The NAFD responded proactively, seeking to welcome the Royal London report as a useful contribution to the debate but also to shape and balance the ensuing coverage to ensure that the funeral profession was not unfairly represented. Throughout media interviews and in the NAFD’s written statements, the Association’s strategy was to move the debate away from purely a discussion about price towards a discussion about value. The Association is seeking to do this by taking every opportunity to increase understanding of the variety, importance and scope of the service

offered by funeral directors, to highlight that there is choice in the market but that it is not just about cost. The choice of funeral firms must be based on standards as well as on price. This is a long term strategy for the Association and will take time to bear fruit as there are some well-entrenched perceptions amongst the media that funerals are expensive, which is a different concept to recognising that funerals can cost a lot of money because they are a complex and important life event, not dissimilar in some respects to the organising of a wedding or christening. As a result, many media outlets approach the topic from the perspective that the funeral profession must defend the prices charged, rather than necessarily seeking to understand the evolving nature of funerals, the variety of factors influencing cost, and how the profession is responding. The topic was also discussed extensively on social media, emphasising once again the power of these digital channels on key campaigning topics. The NAFD’s Twitter and Facebook page were heavily involved in these exchanges as the Association shared key messages and interview clips with NAFD spokespeople to ensure the voice of the funeral profession was being heard across all forms of communication.

The National Association of Funeral Directors would like to wish friends and colleagues across the profession a peaceful and happy Christmas and a prosperous 2016. FuneralTimes | 57

How NAFD qualifications boost business as well as personal growth T

he NAFD Diploma in Funeral Directing and Diploma in Funeral Arranging & Administration are recognised within the industry as the gold standard qualifications for the funeral profession. NAFD qualifications are benchmarked and credit rated to national qualification standards as well as being quality endorsed by Birmingham City University and approved by OneAwards. The courses are demanding, thorough and comprehensive – but still highly enjoyable - with students working extremely hard to achieve them as part of their career development. Students regularly feed back to the Association how beneficial they have found them on a personal level, but is there also pay back for the employers who support them through it? The NAFD understands that, for funeral homes, granting time out for study for members of staff can sometimes be seen as too big a challenge. However, there is a robust evidence base that the qualifications don’t simply benefit the individual student but also have a tangible positive impact on their employer – helping them to grow their business and improve revenues. Professional qualifications help businesses: • Raise standards - which boosts client satisfaction and encourages referral; • Stand out to clients when they are choosing a funeral home; • Develop their employees, maximising their potential and increasing job satisfaction; and • Make themselves more attractive to prospective employees. Rosedale Funeral Home in Norfolk was established in 2004 as an independent funeral business, and is owned by Anne Beckett Allen. The firm has branches at Diss, Attleborough, Bungay, Wymondham

58 | FuneralTimes

and Halesworth. Anne has not only supported members of her own team in undertaking the NAFD’s professional qualifications but has also now become a tutor so that she can pass her skills and experience on to employees at other NAFD member firms. In Anne’s view there are clear business benefits to the qualifications: “As the owner of a funeral home as well as being an NAFD tutor, I see first-hand the benefits of staff training in action. In a profession that is still unregulated, I feel that being committed to putting ALL our funeral arrangers and directors through the Diplomas demonstrates to the general public our commitment to upholding the highest standards. “I have found that, because the staff are open to developing themselves through training, this attitude continues in their work and they have a positive attitude towards change which helps the business to continue to grow and move forwards. For example, having a greater understanding of the theories of grief can gauge where that person is and use the correct phraseology to help communicate in a better way. A few of my staff have gone on to train as bereavement group facilitators which they can do alongside their administration roles, and this has helped improve our aftercare services which now include social activities, therapeutic wreath making and a special Christmas Day candle ceremony to unite people who are lonely.” For further information about how NAFD qualifications can support the growth of your business and its people, please visit www.nafdqualifications.org.uk or contact the NAFD Education team on 0121 711 1343 ext. 25 or email trainingadministration@ nafd.org.uk.

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Dr Bill Webster To do, or not to do F

eeling low this Christmas season? Amid cheery songs, festive parties, gifts and good wishes, many lonely bereaved people are crying on the inside. Maybe you’re one of them. I certainly was the first Christmas after my wife died. It had been a horrible year and I was still processing the deep pain of abandonment and loss when “the season to be jolly” came along. No fun, because I felt anything but jolly. In fact it was downright gloomy. One widow recalled how she felt during the Christmas after her husband’s death: “Little mattered to me. I didn’t want to hear carols. I didn’t want to be cheered up. I didn’t want to look at perky Christmas cards. I wanted the same thing I’d wanted every day for eight months: the strength to force myself out of bed in the morning, to brush my teeth and to eat.” So many things contribute to the Christmas blues. Hectic activity can bring physical and emotional stress. Overspending can produce financial pressure. Year-end reflection and focus on loss can magnify sorrow. Maybe it’s just an “empty chair” that reminds you of your pain. So, how can you cope with Christmas after Bereavement? Here are some suggestions, and I invite you to add your own ideas to the list: To DO … 1. Spend time with people. Especially positive ones who lift your spirits, and bring some cheer. 2. Lights on! Enjoy sunlight, outdoors if possible. Brighten up your home and workplace. More light sometimes helps you feel more positive

60 | FuneralTimes

3. Budget your gift spending and stick to your plan. Prevent the credit card blues of January. 4. Talk about your feelings. Keeping them bottled up can mean anxiety, ulcers, sour disposition, and/or explosion. So, who can you talk to? A friend, a support group, a professional (doctor, minister or counsellor)? 5. Give to others. No matter what age you are, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to bring back the magic of being a kid at Christmas. Being an adult doesn’t mean you have to have a stiff upper-lip when it comes to a holiday away from family. One way to rekindle your Christmas spirit is by spending time with those people who are less fortunate. So … 5. Volunteer. Volunteering during the holidays is a way to connect with others, boost your self-esteem, and bring joy to people less fortunate. Consider offering to help serve dinner at a soup kitchen, bring gifts to a children’s hospital, or visit lonely residents at a nursing home. 6. Accept Invitations. Perhaps you are alone this year because you turned down invitations. Call those people back and say “yes”. If you are feeling really down about being alone at Christmas and can’t pull yourself out of it, reach out for help. Call a friend, family member, or a helpline and let them know you would like some company, or just to talk. You don’t need to be alone. 7. Enjoy Solitude. If being alone at Christmas is unavoidable, plan a day for yourself. Get

a new haircut, buy a new outfit, choose your favorite foods and plan a movie marathon. Christmas is a day when you can indulge yourself without feeling guilty, so just do it. 8. Organize an ‘Orphan Christmas.’ You are not the only one alone during the holidays. Plan an ‘Orphan Christmas’ for those who have no one to spend the holiday with, or join a group of people in similar circumstances. 9. Host an Online Christmas. Do you have online friends? Do you have long-distance relatives? Host an online Christmas by setting up a Skype chatroom or Facebook group. People can drop in and out as they please, and you don’t have to cook, clean, or even get out of your pyjamas. 10. Simplify. Cut your to-do list in half. Keep on asking yourself this question: “Will the world end tomorrow if this doesn’t get done?” 11. Prioritize. Santa may need to put something under the tree for your daughter, mother, husband, and your two best friends. But

his elves are a bit too busy for 300 of your friends and their cousins. So let yourself off the “ought to” and “should” hook. 12. Attitude of Gratitude. Take the time to appreciate what you do have in your life, be it good health, a place to live, or food on the table. Don’t spend so much time grieving what you have lost that you forget to appreciate what (and who) you have. Look forward and plan for a better year next year. 13. Don’t rush the process. Persevere. Remember that “The greatest oak was once a little nut that held its ground.” Only in struggling to emerge from a small hole in the cocoon does a butterfly form wings strong enough to fly. In the struggle, you find strength. You can’t wait for the storm to be over. Sometimes you have to learn how to dance in the rain. 15. Take the fork. Yogi Berra once said, “When you come to the fork in the road, take it” … which simply means: it doesn’t matter which direction you choose as long as you keep moving.

FuneralTimes | 61

or NOT to do... But sometimes it is just as effective to consider a “Not To-Do” list. That can remind us of things we need not do if it’s going to be too stressful, and sometimes just doing that can help us put things back in perspective. So take a deep breath and say to yourself: To reduce stress and increase my holiday cheer this year I promise … : • Not to overspend. It’s so tempting to spoil our kids, grandkids or friends. But too much “retail therapy” can spoil the next 6 months! • Not to add unnecessary stress and expense by feeling I need to send out cards to people I see every day. Cards are great for friends and relatives who live at a distance and for whom a note or letter is an important way to catch up. But saying and meaning a cheerful and heartfelt “Happy Holidays” to people I see regularly is enough. • Not to give in to the kids’ pleas for the biggest tree on the lot. (I was a slow learner on this one myself. Too often, we’d end up cutting off 3 feet when we get home.) I’ll remind everyone that a 6-foot tree can look puny on the lot but impressive in the corner of our living room. • Not to put the kids I know on Santa’s lap to get one of those standard pictures unless they ask or WANT to be there. We tell kids not to talk to strangers all year and now we expect them to get cozy with that big guy in the red suit who they find a bit scary? As cute as those pictures can be, they’re certainly not worth traumatizing the child. • Not to start a new diet just yet. Oh, I’ll stick to healthy eating and balanced meals but this is not the time to torture myself and everyone around me by trying to lose 10

pounds by New Year’s. Being rigid about food this time of year is often an exercise in self-defeat. Talking about it triggers all kinds of not-so-cheerful feelings in other people. January 1st resolutions will come soon enough. • Not to run around trying to find the perfect presents when time together is what most of my friends and adult relatives want most. Most adults of my generation don’t need more “stuff ”. We do need to have more full conversations, to share experiences, and just to have the comfort of being in the same place at the same time now and then. • Not to ask my spouse to go to my office party. There are few things as boring as listening to other people talk shop about something you’re clueless about. You go and enjoy some down time with colleagues. Let your partner take the kids sledging or shopping or out for a treat, or just do their own thing. • Not to neglect adults in our efforts to make kids happy. Make at least one adultsonly activity during the holiday season. It can be as simple as going for a walk in the neighborhood to look at lights or as elaborate as a dress-up outing to a special restaurant. The point is to put all our relationships where they belong … which should be first in our priorities. • Not to become a slave to lists – even this one. I promise to stay flexible, to cross off things I don’t want to do, can’t realistically do, or know I won’t get around to anyway. Then, while you are on a roll, maybe cross off a few more things for good measure. There. That feels better.

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 62 | FuneralTimes

What a Show! H

eld in the same venue, over the same period of time, with many of the same faces (along with many new ones!), but what a difference two years makes. Mary Elizabeth Dillon of Civil Funerals Ireland attended both the 2013 and 2015 Funeral Times Trade Shows and comments as follows: Two years ago it was all so new, I spent the entire two days explaining what a civil funeral was and how it all worked. The show was a rewarding exercise in education and putting the concept out there. This time round there has been a radical change, almost every funeral director I spoke to was familiar with civil funerals and was keen to know the practical details. They wanted to know how to book my services and exactly what I would do for them and what would be required to make a civil funeral possible. I was happy to oblige and had many worthwhile conversations which I am sure will lead to longer term business relationships. Up to now the majority of civil funerals have taken place in Dublin but many enquires came from all parts of the country, from Donegal down to Clare and

beyond. As I remarked to several people, it only takes one brave family to stand up and set a trend. Over and over I have carried out the first civil funeral in an area, much to the surprise of the neighbourhood, and have found myself being called back again not long afterwards. The recent trade show offered a wonderful opportunity to renew old acquaintances, cement friendships and create new relationships. Although refreshingly warm and friendly, it was also businesslike, with funeral directors taking advantage of the expertise of the personnel manning stands and using this golden opportunity to plan ahead for their buisnesses. Mary Elizabeth was well pleased with the whole experience. I went home exhausted and exhilarated, happy with an excellent two days work and looking forward to doing business with those whom I had met. To put the icing on the cake I was the winner of the tickets to the Irish Association of Funeral Directors Dinner to be held in Cork in November and very much look forward to seeing many of the members there again!

Civil Funerals Ireland Simple, unique, personal funeral services • An alternative to the traditional • Celebrating Life • Reflecting the wishes and beliefs of the deceased and their loved ones • Provides an opportunity to pay a fitting tribute • Any suitable venue can be used

Mary Elizabeth Dillon is available between 9am - 11pm 7 days a week Tel ROI: 053 938 9089 / Mobile: 087 957 4476 Email: info@civilfuneralsireland.com

Funerals conducted throughout Ireland FuneralTimes | 63

SAIF news ... SAIF news ... Education Day

AIF Education Day on Wednesday 4th November saw over 70 delegates learn more on Digital Autopsy, understand the need to retain DNA on death, and receive further updates on Hygiene in the Workplace. The launch of SAIFSupport was received well and Catherine Betley highlighted the need for managers and staff alike to be given the opportunity for confidential emotional support. SAIF are delighted to be able to offer this free support to members. SAIF members will have received a noticeboard poster and explanatory leaflet with their annual subscription renewals. Social Media and Marketing your Business presented by Genesis PR was a hot topic with ideas and suggestions on how to promote your business. In the latter part of the day several students were presented with their well-earned certificates by IFD College Chairman Arran Brudenell.

Subscription renewals 2016 Invoices have been sent to members and we would remind you that following the new rule change, all subscriptions must be received in the SAIF office by no later than 31st January 2016 together with the Declaration of Ownership. SAIF Charter members must ensure that they return their completed Annual Declaration by the end of December 2015 to retain their benefits.

Website Do you use the SAIF website to its full advantage? Members are able to log onto the protected area of the website for templates, business facts and guidance on best practice procedures. If you are unsure of you log on details, please contact the SAIF office 0345 230 6777 or email Angela@saif.org.uk. The website is updated on a daily basis to ensure you are kept up to date with the latest news.

SAIF AGM Banquet weekend 2016 Bookings for next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s AGM banquet weekend have been flowing steadily to the extent that there are less than 20 rooms left at the main hotel. We therefore suggest that you book now to avoid disappointment.

IFD college new administrator

he IFD College are pleased to advise the new Administrator for the college is Corinne Pengelly. Whilst Corinne is a member of the SAIF administration team in Sawbridgeworth, her duties have been arranged such that she is now able to take on full administration of the college. For more information on college courses please contact Corinne direct: Corinne@ saif.org.uk or telephone 0345 230 6777.

SAIF wish to extend warm seasonal greetings to all readers and trust that the New Y ear proves to be healthy and prosperous. 64 | FuneralTimes

saif.org.uk

Protecting the Independent Funeral Director for 25 years Promoting and protecting your independent interests

Established in 1989, SAIF is committed to promoting and protecting the traditions, values and care offered by independent funeral directors. Like you, we are passionate about independence, that is why we were formed 25 years ago and, although the funeral profession has changed over the years, our aims remain the same â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to listen to you, to represent you and to assist you.

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To learn more, visit our website at saif.org.uk or call us on 0845 230 677 and let us protect and help you.

J C Atkinson online funeral store - Any coffin, anytime and delivered when you need it!

C Atkinson has for many years made a business case for greater variety and choice offerings, putting client choice at the forefront of its business approach. However, it recognises that, in order to maintain confidence in its approach, this must be backed up with great service. The Company feels it can no longer trade and be constrained by office hours and traditional communication platforms. With effect from 2016, J C Atkinson will be offering its services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In December JCA will launch the 2016 Product Brochure in paper form as normal - impressive in its own right as it illustrates and lists over 1000 goods, coffins, caskets, furniture, linings and ash caskets. In addition, this will be supplemented by a new online and trading version, hosted on the company website www.coffins.co.uk. Available exclusively to funeral trade customers only, J C Atkinson retains its commitment in remaining a B2B, (business to business) trade-only suppler to the funeral sector. This is assured as the service will only be available via a secure online log-in. Orders can be placed against goods accurately, as the system is reliably selfmonitoring 24/7. Goods are automatically updated and down dated from an automated inventory, thus ensuring orders can only be placed when the goods can be reliably supplied. J C Atkinson also recognises that information is key, which is why from the start of 2016 customers will be able

to keep up-to-date with every order. Like other online retailers, our customers will be able to check online the progress of their order. Alternatively, they can opt to receive automatic push-out notifications to advise them of how their order for coffins or goods is progressing. The system will advise clients when the coffin is built, when it has been loaded for delivery and safely on its way. The system will be sophisticated enough to even see the progress of the delivery vehicle, so in case of bad weather or delay, the customer can be kept fully informed. J C Atkinson has 14 delivery vans and trucks based around the UK from the south coast to central Scotland, all monitored using GPS software. They are geared-up specifically to deliver from its manufacturing hub and its centrallybased 40,000 sq ft wholesale warehouse which holds a vast quantity of stock. Its independence ensures items featured are readily available. For more details, please contact J C Atkinson. To view a demonstration of the service, please log into www.coffins.co.uk/ onlineorders.

FuneralTimes | 67

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Lifebooks Launch in Ireland

ifebooks is an exciting new business recently launched in Ireland by entrepreneur Shane Crowley. Lifebooks helps families to celebrate the lives of loved ones by creating books in their honour using a collection of family photographs and stories. The idea came to Shane two years ago: ‘When our Grandmother passed away, we had lots of photos and stories we wanted to gather and share with Granny’s wide circle of family and friends. We sought to create a book to celebrate her life, but the options available to us were very limited. I saw an opportunity and set about creating Lifebooks, a simple and accessible online service through which people can build and compile a book to commemorate their loved ones. I am delighted to say we have had a great response from the industry so far. Funeral Service Providers are using Lifebooks to enhance the services they offer their customers as well as to generate additional revenue and profit.

We set up discrete displays at funeral homes and once a customer is referred, the funeral service provider receives a fee. Lifebooks also allows Funeral Directors to promote their brand and ensures that the brand continues to resonate with customers into the future’. The books themselves are a high quality handcrafted product, ordered online via the Lifebooks website, www.lifebooks.ie. They are easy to create and personalise - photos are uploaded, a cover is selected (there are 12 options including fine linen and premium Italian leather) and the book is designed and ordered. A family tree and stories can also be included. Family members and friends can work together online to create their personalised books, and the team at Lifebooks is there to help. Typically the product, which includes a linen presentation box and DVD, ships within 2 days of ordering. Prices start from €119 + delivery.

GLASS MEMORIAL JEWELLERY Would you like to offer these to your clients and earn €€€? No hassle - we take care of everything. 100% Customer Satisfaction.

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“They look great thank u so much.”

“This jewellery is beautiful and such an amazing idea. Thank you so much for that gift.” “Thank u so much they are gorgeous. Thanks again”

Farewell Celtic Ashes www.celtic-ashes.com

mary@celtic-ashes.com

Remembering your loved ones through jewellery M

ourning Jewellery, as it was once called, (and in some parts of the world, still is) is a general term for Jewellery that people have used over centuries as a way of honoring and remembering deceased loved ones. It has been around since the 1600’s and the earliest known pieces were hand rings. Pearls were particularly favoured as they were portrayed to represent tears and sadness. Cremation Jewellery began to gain momentum during the Victorian Age named after Queen Victoria who reigned from 1837 until her death in 1901. Victoria’s husband Prince Albert died of typhoid in 1861. The Queen went into full mourning for three years along with her court and remained in mourning for the rest of her life. The Victorians were extremely superstitious, especially where death was concerned, and hung black drapes over all the mirrors in the house when in mourning. It was said that if you looked into a mirror when a body was in the house, you would be the next person to die. Cremation Jewellery was popular in England during this era. During the Civil War in In the United States, hair work was a symbolic art that often served as a keepsake or a “love token” to show affection, commemorate the loss of a loved one, or to keep a loved one close during times of physical separation. It was around this era that mourning Jewellery began to take hold. The first style of cremation Jewellery involved intricately woven hair. Today, most people use a piece of hair or some cremains, or ashes, as they are more commonly known. Historically hair ‘art’ often was introduced as a love token or keepsake to show affection or commemorate loss, notably during times of physical separation. When people died, hair was often clipped from the head and then woven into a bonnet that would be

Queen Victoria went into mourning after Prince Albert’s death and remained that way for the rest of her life given to the next of kin. Nowadays hair is still used in keepsakes and remembrance Jewellery but it is more common to use ashes or cremains. The type of Jewellery we (www.celtic-ashes.com) offer is bespoke and entirely unique to the wearer and the deceased because it fuses the ash (which for every single person is different) with glass, sparking the creation not of a mould, but a very unique shape, texture and colour. For more information please contact: www. celtic-ashes.com, email: info@celtic-ashes. com or Tel ROI: 086 8440966

“I’m glad I got to see him” By Tom Sherman “We have a young man that was in a car wreck south of here. The funeral home that picked him up told the family he’s not viewable. Do you want to go down and pick him up and see what you think?” That was the phone call that began my day. Apparently the funeral home in the town where the wreck occurred had picked up the boy and decided that there was no way to make him viewable, and they told the family that. So the family decided not to do embalming and just cremate with a memorial service later. There’s one thing that really makes me mad in this business. That’s when my funeral home is going to be handling the services for someone, and another funeral home, or medical examiner, or family member, someone who isn’t the one going to do the actual embalming, tells the family their loved one won’t be able to be viewed. When it is someone whom I am going to embalm, I am the only one who can make that decision. And it is only in rare and extreme cases that I don’t ask for at least a chance to do the work. Then if I get done and I don’t think viewing is a possibility, I will say so. So I headed out on the hour and a half drive to the funeral home to pick the boy up. At my office we decided that I was to call the funeral home as soon as I had looked at him and made my decision. The boy’s sister wanted to view him if it was at all possible, and we needed to be able to tell them as soon as we could whether we thought that was something we would be able to do. When I got to the funeral home they told me what had happened. The location of the accident was a sharp curve in the road that is very easy to miss in the dark. And if you miss the curve you drive into a concrete culvert. 72 | FuneralTimes

Tom has been in the funeral industry for 17 years. He is currently the Dodge representative in central Texas.

I’m told this isn’t an entirely uncommon thing to happen. His head was crushed. There was a gash across his forehead and deep cuts all over his face. His face was concave, and his cheek bones and other facial support bones had all been shattered as well. The rest of his body was in good shape, though, with the exception of some cuts on his body and hands. I honestly didn’t know if I could do what needed to be done for this family. But I definitely knew that if they would let me, I would try. The office called the family and got permission to do the embalming. The family planned to have a private viewing for family only, then to close the casket and the next day have a public visitation and funeral service. The two apprentices and I set to work. The embalming went fine, until we started injecting his head. The damage was just remarkable and we couldn’t get any diffusion to the face. I started to seriously doubt myself and started second guessing myself and finally decided that the damage was too much to be able to make him viewable again. I was truly on the verge of tears of failure. I was shaking I was so upset. And then we were going to have to call the family and tell them it couldn’t be done. I think that is what got me back into the prep room. I didn’t want to call that family and break their hope. I reassessed and revisited. I called a friend and colleague for advice, his philosophy being much the same as mine, you can’t know until you’ve tried. With his encouragement and some advice the three of us went back to work. A few hours later we felt very good about our work. We went and got some dinner, and then went back into the prep room. After about seven to eight

total hours of work we felt like we could go home for the night. We knew we had more to do in the morning, but we needed to let some of the work sit so we didn’t undo it. The following morning we went back to work. We put some wax here, some Pore Closer there, we were able to dress him without using any plastic. When the cosmetics were done and he was in the casket we felt good, but were still nervous. We knew he didn’t look exactly like his picture, but we also knew he looked as close as we could get. And that was pretty close. When the family came in I explained to them he didn’t look just like his picture. I wanted them to understand that so they didn’t go in and wind up being shocked. His mother said she didn’t want to see his face. She had had family in the funeral business as a child and never liked the way the bodies looked and she didn’t want to see her own son looking like that. So instead of taking mom in we took his sister in. She looked at him for a minute and turned to me and said, “He doesn’t look exactly like himself. But I’m so glad I’m getting to see him.” Eventually his best friend and the rest of his family that were there went in to see him. I sat down and talked with his mom

in the foyer. She thanked me for the work we had done and explained further why she didn’t want to see her son. I didn’t push her to see him, but she kept saying she didn’t want to see “his face.” Eventually it seemed clear to me she wanted to see him, so I asked her if she would like me to cover his face so she could go in. She asked if I could do that, and that it would be great if I could. So I got a sheet and asked everyone to step out of the chapel while I gently covered his face. His mother and I went to the casket together. She held his hand. She stroked his arm. She told me he always slept with his pillow on his face so to her it was like looking at him at home in bed. Then she asked me something I don’t think I’d ever been asked before nor have been asked again. “Can I see his feet?” “Wait, what??” I thought … Then, a quick catalog in my head: is he in stockings, capris, any plastics? No. Do his feet have socks on? Yes. They didn’t bring shoes. His bare feet look OK? Yes. “Absolutely. Let me just move these flowers from the casket, and I’ll be glad to open this end of the casket.” So I did. “I know this is a really weird request, I’m sorry,” she said. “Not at all, it’s not a weird request in any way,” I responded, thinking, of course, that it was certainly a first for me. FuneralTimes | 73

She rubbed his feet for a few minutes. Then … “I know this is another weird request, and if it’s a problem it’s OK.” “I’m sure it’s not weird, what would you like to do?” “Can I take off his socks, and put them on the other feet?” “Of course, would you like my help?” was my response, while my thoughts were racing trying to figure out what was going on. “No, I can do it.” And she did. She took each sock off, then put it on the opposite foot. “I know this is weird, but when he was in high school he would come home and fall asleep with a pillow over his face and his shoes on. So I would come in and take off his shoes and socks while he slept. And this is the last time I will be able to do that for him.” Before the family left that afternoon they asked me if they could have the casket open the next day so that all his friends could see him. The next day, about 15 minutes before the funeral began and about ten minutes before we were going to close the casket, the mother decided she wanted to see her boy’s

face. She and I walked in together and she said the same thing her daughter had said. “He doesn’t look exactly like himself but I’m so glad I got to see him. Thank you.” None of them would have been able to say that if everyone had listened to the people who said that he simply wasn’t viewable. I can’t say, sadly, that every case I get I am capable of making viewable. I hope someday I will be able to and I’m trying to get better. But in the meantime, I will always try. They might not look exactly like their pictures, but their families will be glad they got to see them. If you wish to order the Dodge Magazine or if you wish to place an order you can do so by contacting: Shepherds Mortuary & Funeral Supplies, Unit 2A Royal Canal Business Park, Athlone Road, Co. Longford. Ph. 00353 43 33 49702/00353 87 2486668

What does your

Order of Service say about you?

our promise to you is simple

we will answer your calls 7 days a week - 52 weeks a year we will deliver on time - every time Contact Graham or Richard for further details Telephone: (048) 3835 5060 Email: sales@funeraltimes.com 74 | FuneralTimes

King Arthur at our table

By Mattie Lennon

n Tuesday 29th September, the first day of the Funeral Times Trade Show at Citywest, I had a very enjoyable meal with some of the top funeral directors on the island. Several people at our table were of a philosophical turn of mind. Even before the main course the conversation turned to death and the means taken down the millennia to avoid or at least postpone it. One knowledgeable undertaker from the midlands gave us a scientific account of Cryonic Freezing and how it is hoped that in a hundred years or so the frozen corpses will be thawed out and be once again alive (and probably asking “What is Bruce Forsyth presenting now?”). He even told us that he knew a man in the states who wore a bracelet bearing the words, “Upon death, cool the head,” in case he died unexpectedly. I thought I was doing well with my story (true of course) about a funeral in Hollywood, County Wicklow; As the funeral procession pulled into a cemetery. Several carloads of family members followed a black truck towing a boat with a coffin in it. A man from Knocknadruce remarked, “That lad must have been a very avid fisherman.” “Oh, he still is,” remarked one of the mourners, “as a matter of fact, he’s headed off to the Blessington lake as

soon as we bury his wife.” But a young female mortician decided that it was time for a story with a moral. According to her, young King Arthur was ambushed and imprisoned by the monarch of a neighbouring kingdom. The monarch could have killed him but was moved by Arthur’s youth and ideals and so offered him his freedom, as long as he could answer one very difficult question. Arthur would have a year to figure out the answer and, if, after a year, he still had no answer, he would be put to death. The question?... What do women really want? Such a question would perplex even the most knowledgeable man, and to young Arthur, it seemed an impossible query. But, since it was better than death, he accepted the monarch’s proposition to have an answer by year’s end. He returned to his kingdom and began to poll everyone: the princess, the priests, the wise men and even the court jester. He spoke with everyone, but no one could give him a satisfactory answer. Many people advised him to consult the old ugly woman, for only she would have the answer. But the price would be high; as the woman was famous throughout the kingdom for the exorbitant prices she charged.

The last day of the year arrived and Arthur had no choice but to talk to the old woman. She agreed to answer the question, but he would have to agree to her price first. The old ugly woman wanted to marry Sir Lancelot, the most noble of the Knights of the Round Table and Arthur’s closest friend! Young Arthur was horrified. She was hunchbacked and hideous, had only one tooth, smelled like sewage, made obscene noises, etc. He had never encountered such a repugnant creature in all his life. He refused to force his friend to marry her and endure such a terrible burden; but Lancelot, learning of the proposal, spoke with Arthur. He said nothing was too big of a sacrifice compared to Arthur’s life and the preservation of the Round Table. Hence, a wedding was proclaimed and the woman answered Arthur’s question thus: What a woman really wants, she answered...is to be in charge of her own life. Everyone in the kingdom instantly knew that the woman had uttered a great truth and that Arthur’s life would be spared. And so it was, the neighbouring monarch granted Arthur his freedom and Lancelot and the ugly woman had a wonderful wedding. The honeymoon hour approached and Lancelot, steeling himself for a horrific

experience, entered the bedroom. But, what a sight awaited him. The most beautiful woman he had ever seen lay before him on the bed. The astounded Lancelot asked what had happened. The young beauty replied that since he had been so kind to her when she appeared ugly, she would henceforth be her horrible deformed self only half the time, and the beautiful maiden the other half. Which would he prefer? Beautiful during the day - or night? Lancelot pondered the predicament. During the day, a beautiful woman to show off to his friends, but at night, in the privacy of his castle, an old ugly woman? Or, would he prefer having a hideous woman during the day, but by night, a beautiful woman for him to enjoy wondrous intimate moments? The glamorous young funeral director asked me, What would YOU do? And she refused to divulge the punchline until I gave an answer. I’m not going to tell you what it was but in the words of the late Con Houlihan ,”Please read on.” Noble Lancelot said that he would allow her to make the choice herself. Upon hearing this, she announced that she would be beautiful all the time because he had respected her enough to let her be in charge of her own life. Now... what is the moral to this story? The moral, according to our storyteller is - if you don’t let a woman have her own way... Things are going to get ugly.

Wreath Manufacture & Wholesale At Tom Sharkey & Sons Ltd.

Barrack Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

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

n Free next day delivery on orders over €100

n Call or email now to receive our new brochure

Telephone: +00353 (0)94 986 0658 or email: sales@allseasonsflorists.ie 76 | FuneralTimes

George McNabb’s new delivery

Adrian and Thomas from George McNabb Funeral Directors, Co. Armagh with a new hearse and limousine coach-built by Fearghas Quinn Hearse and limousines. Adrian says “I am delighted with the high quality of coachworks and special extras that William and Wilma Robinson pictured with their new Mondeo Fearghas was able to provide”. hearse supplied by Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousine Fearghas wishes George McNabb Funeral Directors continued success with their business.

Hearse & Limousines Tel: 028/048 2582 2525 Fax: 028/048 2582 2299

For Sale Insignia 3 door hearse • Half leather • Alloys • Double deck etc. • Excellent condition 13 Garvaghy Road, Portglenone, County Antrim BT44 8EF

Email: fearghas@fearghasquinn.com or visit our website for more information ** Feel free to call us, with no obligation. Rest assured we will not pester you with phone calls or unsolicited visits **

www.fearghasquinn.com FuneralTimes | 77

Tallon Mortuary Specialists has teamed up with Mortuary Solutions to better serve you and your mortuary needs

ortuary Solutions is part of J Marston Engineers (JME) who started out as general fabricators. Over the last 45 years JME have developed a renowned expertise in Laboratory Equipment with applications in a range of differing industries, but have maintained the ability to offer bespoke fabrications. JME have clients throughout the UK and overseas, and operate from their Leeds manufacturing base. Manufacturing flexibility and quality are very strong features of the company. With skills passed down from generation to generation they have a long-standing reputation for precision, innovation, technical expertise and quality with many of the UK’s major companies and laboratory engineering specialists. Committed to supplying excellent products and delivering excellent customer service the fully qualified, professional team ensures that

78 | FuneralTimes

the product is right and on time. Using the latest technologies, including automation and computer support from sales through to installation enables us to respond quickly to customer needs. Tel: 0113 256 3693 www.mortuarysolutions.co.uk or Glyn Tallon, 14 Academy Street, Navan, Co. Meath, Mobile: 086 826 8876

Vauxhall Insignia fleet for Irene Jessop Funeral Service

A new Vauxhall Insignia Hearse and Limousine delivered to Irene Jessop Funeral Service

rene has over 25 years’ experience serving bereaved families. In 2010 she opened up her own funeral home in Thornaby on Tees. The motto of her business is “Always with honesty, dignity and respect”. Professional independent family business they are members of NAFD and BIE. The vehicles Irene chose come with a high specification including leather interior, DAB

stereo, Bluetooth, alloy wheels and heated seats. They also have a fuel efficient 2.0 diesel engine. Irene was delighted and proud to receive her first ever new fleet which were to replace her existing Vauxhall Omegas. Wilcox & Co (Limousines) Ltd. would like to thank Irene for her continued business and wish her success with her new fleet.

y Mc Dermott r r e G Wreath Manufacturer

Circular Road, Roscommon Tel: 090 6629737 Tel: 090 6625763 Mob: 086 2544126 Mob: 086 8205215 FuneralTimes | 79

Surelift for Anderson Maguire Funeral Directors

(R) Ryan Duffy, General Manager and Coleman Milneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tony Kerr

nderson Maguire Funeral Directors is an independent, family-owned company, operating across eleven locations throughout the Glasgow area. Coleman Milne recently installed a new

Surelift system into the customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s existing Mercedes Vito van which complements their new ceremonial fleet of five Mercedes E-Class purchased from Coleman Milne in June this year.

New Ford fleet for Alasdair Rhind Funeral Directors Alasdair Rhind Funeral Directors have taken delivery of their new Ford Cardinal Classic Hearse and matching Dorchester Limousine at their premises in Tain which replaces their previous Coleman Milne fleet. Established in 1993, Alasdair Rhind Funeral Directors have grown due to their exceptional personalised customer care, respect and dignity and they now provide services throughout the Highlands covering Tain, Dornoch, Lairg, Invergordon and outlying areas, Alness, Dingwall, Inverness and surrounding areas. 80 | FuneralTimes

Jack Rhind with the quality new Coleman Milne Ford vehicles

Classifieds... Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com PATRICK RYAN & DAUGHTER FUNERAL DIRECTORS

DAVID McKEON HEARSE HIRE Sunnagh Beg, Cloone, Co. Leitrim

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

24 HR SERVICE Long or short term hire Nationwide

COVERING LONDON AND THE HOME COUNTIES

CONTACT ROI Mobile: 087-8045115 / 087-2981956 / 071-9636000

FOR SALE

chairs and LECTERN suitable for Funeral home • 30 Fabric upholstered padded chairs and 50 wooden padded seat chairs • Good condition, extra to requirements Contact Tel: 07740 758 585 for more information

1996 VOLVO 960 HEARSE

• 3 door • MOT’d 14th October 2016 • Electric rise & fall deck • Private number not included Price on Application Contact T:028 2565 2429 J. Stevenson & Son Ballymena FuneralTimes | 81

Classifieds... Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com business for SALE • Established Ireland-based Bereavement Memorial and Accessory business for sale • Unique range of products and accessories (for both home and cemetery) fully designed and tested • Huge home and export market potential as B2B to existing funeral directors and/or to other related funeral trade/players. • Selling due to health issues owner • Is available for initial transition and knowledge transfer - and if required for future related consultancy. • This is a genuine, unique and extremely lucrative opportunity for the right person(s) Price: Negotiable Interested (Principals Only) please reply to: Box No. 1234 c/o Funeral Times Magazine, 1 Annagh Drive, Carn Industrial Estate, Craigavon Co Armagh BT63 5WF

Frank Keogh & Sons Funeral Repatriation Services

Woodbrook, Bray Co.Wicklow Telephone:

ROI - 086 8440208 NI - 00353 86 8440208 FOR SALE

Experienced Professional 24/7 Embalmer Co. Fermanagh, Co. Donegal, Co. Leitrim & surrounding counties. Tel. (00353) (0)86 2507654 bernardcarty@googlemail.com

European Association of Embalmers 82 | FuneralTimes

2007 ford mondeo Zetec hearsette • 2Ltr TDci • 98,000 Miles • Manual 6 speed • Immaculate condition • Nct till November 2017 • Tax to August 2016 • Coffin rollers • New tyres. Price €6995 Contact T:086 344 7740 for more informaion

Classifieds... Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com Matthew L. Jones

FOR SALE

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

2005 Vauxhall vectra wilcox built hearsette • Manual • 1.9 Diesel • 76,000 miles • Wilcox Built Deck • NCT February 2016 Price €5000 Contact T:087 9134700 for more informaion

jb1

Pair of Mercedes Limousines (6 door) • Mercedes Hearse Available Experienced Drivers • Provincewide service available For enquiries please conact: James on Mob: 077 3428 3181/Tel: 028 3884 9151 Web: www.jamesbartonfuneralservices.co.uk • Email: jamesbarton75@gmail.com FuneralTimes | 83

Breathtaking.

The view isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bad either

enquiries@wilcoxlims.co.uk www.limousines.co.uk Tel: +44(0)1753 480 600