The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland
2019 Vol.19 No.4
Will your funerals stand out on long dark nights?
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The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland
A tribute to Tony Kieran.................................................. 5
New Co Tyrone funeral home ....................................... 10
Contents
Pat Gleasure remembers Val O’Connor......................... 23
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
A tribute to Tony Kieran..................................................... 5 Dereck Marshall opens new funeral home........................ 10 BIE News.......................................................................... 14 £12100 for Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust......................... 20 IAFD News....................................................................... 22 Pat Gleasure remembers Val O’Connor............................ 23 Cover story........................................................................ 27 Padraic Cawley thinks outside the box............................. 30 You only get one chance by Mary Elizabeth Dillon ........ 36 NAFD News...................................................................... 38 Dennis Daulton on Doing it the easy way........................ 47 SAIF News........................................................................ 53 Glynn Tallon to speak at Canadian Conference................ 54 Jennifer Muldowney thinks about the venue.................... 57 PEAI News........................................................................ 60 Rules on how to Prevent Heart Disease............................ 63 Mattie Lennon on An Anvil, chickens and lovely songs... 66 The death of the traditional funeral?................................. 71 Dr Bill Webster - Thoughts and prayers........................... 72 Classifieds......................................................................... 80
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 - Tony Kieran T
he funeral industry across Ireland was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Tony Kieran in August. A gentleman originally hailing from Magheracloone, Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan, who, along with brother Tom, formed Kieran Bros. Funeral Directors in 1954 and devoted over seven decades to caring and providing for the people of Kingscourt and surrounding areas. Having served his profession faithfully for so long a time, Tony lived through significant change in the industry, and strove to adapt his business in line with rapid alterations in technology as well as the ever-changing needs of his customers, one example being the change of the
funeral directors role from providing stout, beer and cigarettes for a wake house in the 1950s to the glutenfree sandwich selection available in many-a-home across the island today. Kieran Bros. Funeral Care is today operated by Tony’s son Colm, who was a board member of the IAFD from 2014 to 2018. Tony’s funeral mass was celebrated in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Kingscourt and his family would like to thank all the funeral directors who travelled from far and wide to take part in a guard of honour on the day.
F
Obituary Val O’Connor
ounder member and Past President of Irish Association of Funeral Directors.
See full tribute on page 23.
FuneralTimes | 5
How funeral directors can T
he fundamentals of funeral directing haven’t changed much over the years. Someone dies and their loved ones reach out to a person who is able to help them manage the mechanics of overseeing the send off that the family desire. But inside that broad envelope are many details and a great number of those are governed by change in society. Just think of the increased number of cremations your firm handles compared with 20 years ago. Public perception changed and even the conservative world of funerals changed very quickly. While in the past comment about someone’s passing was confined to face to face contact, it now spreads exponentially over social media. And this can be dangerous if left unmanaged. With newspaper circulations plummeting it is no longer possible to reach people with funeral details by traditional means. A generation who have grown up with instant information on their tablets and phones
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don’t wait for a notice to appear in the next day’s newspaper. They share and they share instantly. All notices published on FuneralTimes.com are also shared on local county Facebook pages and tweeted on @FuneralTimes. This is where funeral directors need to keep themselves at the centre of things. Making sure the information shared about the funeral is correct is vital. Once something appears on the internet and spreads to social media it is almost impossible to change. FuneralTimes.com puts Funeral Directors in control with 24/7 real time access to the information in the public domain. It is so important that funeral directors publish even the basic information as quickly as possible. On funeraltimes.com (.ie/.uk) we often see funeral directors posting notices in the middle of the night, just minutes after leaving the deceased’s home. These Partial Published FAL notices will usually just carry the name of the deceased, date of death and ‘funeral arrangements later’ but crucially they also
stay at the centre of things
carry full contact details of the funeral director. Visitors to the site may then share the notice on various social media platforms like Twitter or Facebook in order to inform others that the person has died, but everything links back to the notice and the funeral director. Visitors leave their email address and when the funeral director updates the notice to Full Publish with times and dates, the updated information is automatically sent out to all interested parties. This is becoming increasingly important as it gets the correct information to everyone who needs to know and allows the family to make necessary alterations without waiting for the next edition of a newspaper. In order to control, as much as possible, the information which is put into the public domain, funeral directors need to write the notice, and be paid for doing so, and post on sites onto which only funeral directors can upload content. This lessens the risk of family or friends trying to help by posting information which has not been confirmed and which will then be shared on social media. Funeraltimes.com provides a widget which also copies all notices posted by a funeral director onto their own sites, which
means there is never conflicting information and one alteration changes both notices instantly. This widget is available at no cost to all registered funeral directors and is easily integrated onto existing web sites. Having started in the North, funeraltimes. com carries over 95% of all death notices in that region, meaning the public have come to recognise it as a one stop shop for all funeral information and this has led to the site gaining huge traffic. Public demand has now led to funeral directors from all border counties using the site, initially with information on funerals with a cross border connection but increasingly for all their funeral notices, the site traffic and the dedicated ‘County’ facebook pages providing a full service for their clients. This would indicate growth towards an all island site is inevitable. Any Funeral Director who would like to avail of the service should contact Richard McKimm at FuneralTimes.com. T:028 (48) 38355060 or support@funeraltimes.com
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Dereck Marshall unveils new premises W
idely known and respected Co. Tyrone Funeral Director Dereck Marshall was recently thrilled to welcome friends, colleagues and new faces with various connections to the funeral industry, representing many bodies and firms, at the opening of his new funeral home in Dungannon. Guests included David Capper, National President of the British Institute of Funeral Directors; Alan Wray, Northern Ireland President of the British Institute of Funeral Directors and the Venerable Andrew Forster of St Anne’s Parish Church, Dungannon, who is the newly-appointed Bishop-elect of Derry and Raphoe.
10 | FuneralTimes
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Tributes were offered widely for Dereck, described as a true gentleman, highly regarded and respected by the Dungannon community for the past 30 years. They also described him as a perfectionist with a caring compassion. The event went off without a hitch, Dereck being delighted with the turnout and feedback he received from those in various roles throughout the industry. Located at Stangmore Park, 4A Far Circular Road, Moygashel, Dungannon, the premises boasts generous parking facilities, private office space, reception area, a private viewing room and a beautiful service room, capable of hosting up to 60 people either for a funeral itself or wake, where visitors and loved ones may come to quietly pay their respects in the serene setting. Having spent 30 years with Holmes of Dungannon, Dereck is by no means a stranger to the industry and has, over the years, made a lasting impression on the many friends and colleagues he has had the pleasure of working with across the island. This was reflected by the wonderful turnout at the opening. Following redundancy late in 2017, Dereck decided he still wished to remain in the industry and continue to serve the community he has dedicated so much to over the years and, as a result, established his own company. A member of the British Institute of Funeral Directors, Dereck holds a Diploma in Funeral Directing and is also registered with the Funeral Planning Authority. Many colleagues from the BIFD as well as other professional bodies joined industry
ct
professionals in admiring the fine space that has been created to serve the local community. We at Funeral Times wish Dereck all the best with his beautiful new premises and his continued work in the community and across the industry.
or ra s an You can contact Dereck on 07834 091005 or lD d h ir temail ec e V dereckgmarshall@gmail.com to en rs e ; A ra la ble n W An ra dr e Na y, N w F av tio ort or id n he ste Ca al P rn r pp re Ir of S er sid ela t A , en nd nn t o Pr e’ f t es s P he id ar Br en ish iti t of C sh th hu e B rch ri , D tis u h ng an n
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“
highly regarded and respected by the Dungannon community for the past 30 years... on
,
David Capper, National President of the British Institute of Funeral Directors; Councillor Frances Burton; The Venerable Andrew Forster of St Anne’s Parish Church, Dungannon; Dereck and Irene Marshall; Alan Wray, Northern Ireland President of the British Institute of Funeral Directors and Dereck's sons, Simon and Gary Marshall FuneralTimes | 11
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BIE News Ireland Division
H
i all, I hope everybody is keeping well and had a great summer. OK then, time to get straight to the point. As you know, the Irish division is one of the biggest divisions within the BIE and yet the member and student numbers at our meetings are falling considerably. Without members at meetings unfortunately we will no longer have a division. So, working with a number of departments and professionals, we have devised a few different concepts to make these meetings more enjoyable, but we would also like your input as to what you would like to get out of each meeting so we are asking each member and student to email the divisional secretary, in confidence, your ideas and thoughts on this subject. You can contact Susan Moran at: susan.moran@mortuary-science.ie One of the suggestions from members and students over the years is “would we ever get the opportunity to view a post mortem examination as it takes place”. We have recently been in talks with the Dublin Coroner’s Office who have very graciously granted us permission to bring our members and students along to view this procedure. We are also working very closely with a
Glasnevin Museum at Glasnevin Cemetery will host the next BIE meeting on October 14 | FuneralTimes
major hospital who have also agreed to facilitate us. All details of this “field trip” will be given out at our next meeting. Which brings me to the next point… Traditionally, our meetings have been held in either hotel boardroms or Funeral Homes. To slightly change the more formal approach we are now looking at various venues around the country. The first of which will be our next meeting which will be held on Sunday 13th October 2019, in the Glasnevin Museum at Glasnevin Cemetery, Dublin at 1pm. The day will consist of our third and final meeting of the year where we will discuss with you our future plans for our divisional meetings. Also included will be light refreshments and then we will be taken on the world famous tour of Glasnevin Cemetery. This will be a very important day so we would encourage as many members and students to attend as possible. I look forward to seeing everybody.
Cyril Gantley
Chairman
BIE News Northern Ireland Division
H
ello all, The Northern Ireland 3rd quarterly meeting will take place on Wednesday 25th of September 2019 at Malcomson’s Funeral Directors, Robert Street, Lurgan BT668BE at 7.30pm. I would encourage as many members and students to attend as I would like to highlight and identify the areas with yourselves that you would like covered by key speakers during future meetings to come. Keep in mind areas that you have had little experience in or situations you may have found difficult or very much on your own. It may just be a matter of clarification or there may be an easier way of doing it.
Looking forward to seeing you all. Seamus Mc Laughlin Chairman
GerryWreath McDermott Manufacturer Circular Road, Roscommon
Mob: 086 2544126 or Mob: 086 8205215
FuneralTimes | 15
List of BIE Officers and appointed representatives for 2019/2020 National President: Dr Phil Gore MBIE
Imm. Past President: Barbara Fowley MBIE
IRISH DIVISION Chairman Cyril Gantley MBIE 336 Kildare Road, Crumlin, Dublin 12 Mobile:00353 857671582 cyril.gantley@mortuary-science.ie
1st Vice President: Bobby Hopkin-Hoggarth MBIE
National PRO & National General Secretary: Karen Caney FBIE White Meadow Cottage, Brailsford, Derby DE6 3DA Tel: 01332 349035(BIE) Mobile: 07786 432014 karencaney@btopenworld.com
National Treasurer: Michael Liddle FBIE 10 Yew Tree Close, Silsoe MK45 4EQ Business Tel: 01582 490005 Home Tel: 01525 860117 michael@silsloe.wanadoo.co.uk
Editor: Gwen Schofield FBIE 9 Seymour Walk, Meltham, Holmfirth HD9 4BP Home Tel: 01484 851994 Mobile: 07778 279100 gwen.schofield@ntlworld.com
Master Fellow: David Kaye FBIE
Student Liaison Officer: David Coster MBIE 16 | FuneralTimes
Secretary Susan Moran 20 Cedarwood Park, Newbridge, Co. Kildare Mobile:00353860619500 susan.moran@mortuary-science.ie
National Council Rep Pamela Murphy MBIE 14 Parknasillogue Court, Enniskerry, Co.Wicklow Mobile:00353 857415421
2nd National Council Rep and Treasurer John Hawe MBIE 12 Meadow Vale, Smith’s Road, Charleville, Co.Cork Mobile: 00353 876390087 jmhawe@eircom.net
NORTHERN IRELAND DIVISION Chairman Seamus McLaughlin MBIE 904 Glenshane Road, Dungiven Co L’Derry BT47 4SB TEL : 07747 046084 Email: info@ mclaughlinfuneraldirectors.com
Vice Chairman Pat Harley MBIE 67 Creggan Road, L’Derry BT48 9DA TEL: 07712 899137 Email:phschoolofembalming@ hotmail.com 1st National Council Representative Laurence O’Neill MBIE 98 Stewartstown Road, Belfast BT11 9JP Tel: 028 9062 0099 Email: oneill8210@hotmail.com 2nd National Council Representative Ellison Sloan MBIE Tel: 02838336175 Email: poots@fsni.info Treasurer Andrew McMullan MBIE 22 High Street, Ballymoney Co Antrim BT53 6AQ Email: andrew@ mcmullanfunerals.com Secretary Liz Douglas M B I E 3 Rathlin Crest, Ballymena BT43 5JA Tel: 07483 178508 Email: izzydouglas31@gmail.com 1st Educational Representative Stephen Shields MBIE James Brown & Sons 300 Newtownards Road Belfast TEL: 02890451021 Email: jamesbrownandsons@ fsni.info Student Liaison Officer Charlie Poots MBIE
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Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust presented with donation Over the past several years a number of the staff from Southern Regional College have worked tirelessly on a variety of fundraising initiatives on behalf of their official nominated charities, The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust and Cancer Focus NI.
T
he Kevin Bell trust, led by Colin, have provided an invaluable service for years and affected the lives of so many across the island. Their mission statement is to ‘alleviate the financial hardship of bereaved families repatriating the body (bodies) of loved one(s) who have died abroad in sudden or tragic circumstances back to Ireland. Staff from their local SRC have dedicated much of their free time, energy and care to raise an incredible £12,100 for these hugely worthwhile charities, some of the fundraising activities throughout the year including a golf tournament, an 80km cycle from campus to Brian Doran, SRC Chief Executive pictured with Louise campus, a walk in the Mourne Richardson, Cancer Focus NI and Damian Ruddy, The Mountains, a BBQ, a pub quiz and Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust. a skydive. It is wonderful to see local institutions recognising the value of such exceptional organisations as the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, with the work they do helping people from all walks of life find a way through the most difficult of situations, emotionally and financially.
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Through our own personal experience we received the inspiration to set up Treasured Keepsakes, to give people a wide variety of options upon a loved one’s passing should they choose to keep a lock of hair, cremated remains, a piece of jewellery, a photograph or anything that is a personal reminder of their loved one in a small keepsake, keepsake pendant or urn. Funeral directors we are currently working with have tailored our service to suit their needs. We have two options of how our service can work for you. If you wish you can buy our products from us at a wholesale price and sell them directly to your clients. Alternatively we can offer this service to your clients directly. We would hope that by recommending our service we will enhance and add value to your business at no extra cost to you.
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IAFD News Excellence Programme Visits – 2019 Gerard Clarke and Michael Crowley are steadily working through the 2019 visits which provide an excellent opportunity for members to engage with the Board and to seek support or assistance with any issues. Also, the high level of standards of service to families associated with IAFD membership is reviewed with members.
A
Newbridge Training Workshop
n educational workshop was held in The Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge, Co. Kildare on 25th July 2019 on the subject, ‘Staying well at work’ which was presented by Breffni McGuinness of The Irish Hospice Foundation. Edwina Fitzgerald, IAFD President commented, ‘I believe that anyone whose
job involves dealing with dying, death and bereavement needs to be supported. This support involves both understanding how the work they do can impact on them and developing skills to care for themselves. The workshop was well received by the members in attendance.’
The Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge, Co. Kildare
Education I
AFD Members who wish to participate in the next FDCA Education Course should register their interest by emailing Joanne Cooney - joanne@cooneysfuneralhome.com. Dates and venues are yet to be finalised and will be advertised as soon as possible. The course features a combination of classroom and practical based learning with industry experts on Funeral Business costs, payments, dealing with solicitors, conducting a funeral, presentation i.e. coffin, wake house/funeral home presentation.
22 | FuneralTimes
IAFD News Val O’Connor I
t was with sadness last month we learnt of the death of Val O’Connor, Irish Association of Funeral Directors founder member and Past President. A large number of people including funeral directors from all over the country attended the removal on 10th August from the family’s funeral home on North Gate Bridge to the North Cathedral and on 12th August for his Requiem Mass and funeral to St. Finbarr’s Cemetery. The attendees included the following IAFD Past Presidents; Henry Black, Michael Crowley, Mary Cunniffe, Pat Gleasure, Graham Gleasure, Conor Massey, Kevin O’Connor and John Thompson. Canon Liam O’Driscoll was the chief celebrant at the Mass which was concelebrated by the new Bishop of Cork and Ross, Fintan Gavin, as well as numerous other clergy. Mr Jim Corr, a former Lord Mayor of Cork and friend gave the eulogy, he spoke of the contribution Val O’Connor had made to Cork and its people and his charitable spirit and generosity. Pat Gleasure, a life-long friend and colleague of Val O’Connor’s has written the following appropriate tribute. IAFD members who either knew Val personally or by reputation readily identify with the sentiments expressed. ‘Irish Funeral Service lost a much loved man in August when Val O’Connor died peacefully in Cork. Val’s ninety years were celebrated in his own Funeral Home and in the North Cathedral (which he was instrumental in refurbishing) before he was laid to rest in St. Finbarr’s Cemetery in his native city. Despite being a shrewd businessman, he was tremendously open minded and dedicated to being the best Funeral Director he could be. Val urged people to push themselves out of their comfort zone and bring modern methods, innovation and enhancements to Irish Funerals. He looked to the American model and adapted our rituals accordingly. His pleasant way and the sparkle in his eye endeared him to his local clientele in North Cork City and to his colleagues, the
clergy and those in local power. He saw the development of Cork as a benefit to all, in terms of bringing culture, events and prosperity to the city whenever possible. Indeed his work was recognised by fellow Corkonians through his assistance in promoting Cork 800 Celebrations in 1985, receiving a Knighthood from the Pope in 2001, bringing Andrea Bocceli to play there during the European City of Culture in 2005 and being honoured in City Hall in 2017. Val opened Ireland’s first Funeral Home in 1967, following on from the American idea and over time expanded and developed the business. When I first explored the idea of opening a purpose-built Funeral Home in Tralee, almost fifty years ago, I encountered Val, who was helpful and encouraging in every FuneralTimes | 23
way. He found solutions to problems and delighted in seeing friends succeed. Val was instrumental in organising the first embalming course in Ireland, in U.C.C. and his facilities were always available to students. He was totally committed to funeral service as a business, and to raising standards in every way, by providing comfortable premises, smart vehicles and modern embalming. He strived for professionalism and was compassionate to bereaved families so they felt they were speaking with a friend. There are many Funeral Directors throughout the country whose careers were enhanced by training at North Gate Bridge and many went on to complete the British Institute of Embalmers examinations. Along with some fellow visionaries, he was influential in starting an association for Irish Funeral Directors to meet and discuss the various aspects of the world renowned Irish wake and its development in changing times. Now, forty years on we have trusted and competent member firms covering the country. The Irish Association of Funeral
Directors was created in 1978 to raise standards and ethics, assist the families of those in mourning, and also provide a facility for Funeral Directors themselves to learn; campaign and support each other. As President for two years he offered his time and vast experience and was willing to travel without question to help. His encouragement to colleagues both North and South, from Armagh to Kerry, Wexford to Galway, kept us focused on Val’s genuine belief that not only city but also rural undertakers could improve their service. He was a true gentleman in every aspect, one I was proud to call a friend and his wit, generosity and spirit will not be forgotten. He will be greatly missed by those of his generation and I speak for all in the IAFD in offering sympathy to his wife Annette, to Laura, Finbarr, Sally-Ann & Lisa, his cherished staff, relatives and many friends. It is wonderful to see his family continue the O’Connor heritage in his beloved Cork.’ May he Rest in Peace Pat Gleasure, Tralee
Diary Dates 2019 Thursday 26th September - Cavan Town Regional Training Workshop Saturday 16th November - Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone AGM & Dinner Dance
New Members FULL MEMBERSHIP • Halligans Funeral Directors, Rathvilly, Carlow 24 | FuneralTimes
IAFD News Edwina Fitzgerald (President) Fitzgeralds Funeral Directors Channel Road Rush Co. Dublin Ph: 0873512949 Email: edwinafitzgerald78@gmail.com
Mary Cunniffe (PRO and Immediate Past President) Massey Bros Funeral Home Templeogue Village Dublin 6W Mobile: 085-8010742 Ph: 01-4907601 Email: mary.cunniffe@hotmail.com
Robert Fanagan (First Vice President & Membership Officer) Fanagans 54, Aungier Street Dublin 2 Ph: 01-4754101 Email: robert@fanagans.ie
John Foley Jennings Funeral Directors 81 Amien Street Dublin 1 Ph: 01-8555511
Donal Forde (2nd Vice President & Education Committee Chair) Forde & Sons Funeral Home South Gate Bridge Cork Co. Cork Ph: 021-4318222 Email: fordes@indigo.ie Dara Gillespie (Hon. Secretary) Finlays Funeral Service Tierney Street Ardee Co. Louth Mobile: 086 7923472 Email: dara.gillespie@finlaygrp.com Niall Mulligan (Hon. Treasurer) Heffernan’s Funeral Directors Trim Co. Meath Mobile: 086 8208501 Ph: 046 9438662 Email: heffernansfd@gmail.com
Tom Lawless Lawless Funeral Directors Mucklagh, Tullamore Co. Offaly Ph: 057-9322622 Email: info@tullamorefunerals.ie Dermot McCarthy McCarthy’s Funeral Home Gurrane, Banteer, Cork. Ph: 029-56044 Email: dermot@mccarthyfuneraldirectors.com Kieran Shovlin Seamus Shovlin Funeral & Embalming Services Sandfield Ardara Co. Donegal Ph: 074-9541300 Email: kieran.shovlin@gmail.com
FuneralTimes | 25
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Remembered by FG Marshall
F
G Marshall Ltd are delighted to announce the launch of an exciting new mobile app. The app will allow bereaved families and friends the opportunity to build a mobile memory bank of their loved ones based around their book of remembrance entry. Four years in development; it will help crematoria to reach a social media savvy audience, by allowing book of remembrance entries to be shared with loved ones across the world via Facebook, Instagram and other social media sites. “Remembered by FG Marshall� is available on android and apple products and
28 | FuneralTimes
features the option to add memories, photographs and videos, delivering a holistic memorial which can be cherished by the bereaved and bring comfort. Options also include requesting a personal hand penned copy of the entry and contact details of the relevant crematoria, helping crematoria to increase revenue streams without any extra costs! With no initial set up costs for the crematorium, just a low cost charge to each customer, it is bound to prove a popular and enduring memorial. For more information please contact Wendy Bell, General Manager, FG Marshall Ltd. Contact details: Danish Barn, Langley Bottom Farm, Langley Vale Road, Epsom, Surrey. KT18 6AP www.fgmarshall.com T:+44 (0) 1372 274386 email: office@fgmarshall.com
"Out of the box" funerals People who take the time and make the effort to create meaningful funeral arrangements when someone loved dies… emerge changed, more authentic and purposeful. The best funerals remind us how we should live.” — Dr. Alan Wolfelt
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ccording to renowned author, educator, and grief expert, Dr. Alan Wolfelt, a funeral service is not only for the purpose of saying goodbye. We are all individuals, and a funeral service should be a reflection of a person’s life – their loves, their achievements, music, hobbies, interests, poems, colours, beliefs, values, the things that they treasured, that made them who they were. The way a life was lived should be reflected in their funeral.
St Patrick's Church Lyons Estate
As more ‘baby boomers’ plan for their parents’ funerals as well as plan in advance for their own funeral arrangements, it is becoming more and more common to see “out of the box” funeral ideas. Although many funerals are held in a church or a crematorium chapel you can, in fact, hold Padraic Cawley preparing for a service at the ceremony anywhere. the RDS Concert Hall Some families don’t feel comfortable in a formal setting, and perhaps would like the service in their home, in a village hall, hotel, or even in their favourite pub. If a loved one enjoyed being outdoors, the service could be held at a local botanical garden, park, or private garden (with permission, of course). This would allow the service to incorporate the peacefulness of the outdoors, and share the joy that a loved one felt being surrounded by nature. Or if the deceased was a member of a club or association, a service could be held in the club house etc. Over the last few months I have led funeral services in family homes, museums, hotels, golf clubs, funeral homes, and a well known Dublin pub – where in typical Dublin humour, the owner quipped that while he had seen many being carried out of his pub, it was the first time to witness someone being carried in! In my experience working in different venues, I have always found management and staff to be very
accommodating in assisting families and funeral directors and have often gone the extra mile to ensure that the perfect atmosphere and setting is created. One great benefit is that generally there are no time constraints, and some funerals I’ve led have been in the evening time, or on a Sunday, which allows for much more flexibility for those attending. Generally a short service of committal at a grave side or crematorium chapel will happen privately later the same day or at a future date. Maritime Museum Dun Laoire
Maritime Museum Seating Area
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FuneralTimes | 31
New from Fearghas R. Gibneydelivery of Gibneys of Oldcastle Funeral Directors, collectsQuinn his new hearse from Fearghas Bryan R. Steenson & Son, Cookstown, with his new E-Class hearse from Fearghas Quinnfrom Hearse and Limousines. Quinn
32 | FuneralTimes
www.coachbuilders.ie sales@coachbuilders.ie Tel: +353 87 269 0044 Ballyfinane, Firies, Killarney, Co. Kerry
FuneralTimes | 1
Advertorial
Detachable Order of Service Card from Doscard.com Introducing the Doscard (Detachable Order of Service Card), which is poised to change forever the way an Order of Service is presented as well as being set to become an integral part of any funeral service henceforth.
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ntil now most Order of Services will have a picture of the deceased printed on the front cover, as well as recording the day, date of death and service venue. It is a fact that 90% of these Order of Services are discarded either on the actual day of the funeral or within one week of the funeral taking place, thus having no further use. The Doscard, which is similar in size to a credit card, is made from heavy laminated card and is stuck to the front cover of an Order of Service (similar to the way you would receive a new bank card in the post). This Doscard in turn can be easily removed and retained by each member of the attending congregation on the day. The Doscard is easily fitted into a wallet, purse
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or pocket and acts as a permanent reminder of the deceased person. The Doscard which in turn has a picture of the deceased person printed on the front cover as well as recording the day, date of death and service venue can also carry a prayer, poem or reflection on the back side ensuring that the deceased is not forgotten long after their passing. Advantages to Funeral Directors As the Doscard can carry the name and contact details of the acting Funeral Director, this is equivalent to them handing each person attending the funeral (the target customer base), their business card, which will most likely be retained for a long time. As the
Doscard is very inexpensive to produce, there is a significant additional income stream (until now overlooked) to be gained from every funeral undertaken. Advantages to a grieving family The inclusion of the Doscard eliminates the need of the grieving family having to source, prepare, order, quantify, search for names and addresses and post memorial/ reflection/thank you cards to family and friends at some stage after the funeral has taken place. They can rest assured that their loved one will be remembered by all their family, friends and neighbours long into the future. Inclusion of the Doscard on the Order of Service will actually work out more cost effective and much more beneficial than preparing cards after the funeral. Reprint/Reproduction of the Doscard We want the Doscards to be available to every grieving family who asks for them whilst making funeral arrangements for their loved one. We also want Funeral Directors to be able to offer them to their clients as part of their service. To that extent it is imperative that only those Funeral Directors who obtain a Reproduction/ Reprint licence from Doscard.com will be permitted to do so. As the Doscard is EU Registered Design protected, a reproduction licence is required by law by anyone who wishes to reproduce/ reprint them, and which can be easily obtained by visiting: Doscard.com. A public directory of all licenced Funeral Directors will be listed on Doscard.com. Unlicenced use of the Doscard will result in Licence Infringement and will be dealt with directly by Cameron IP Lawyers London/Glasgow without exception. EU Registered Design GSI Ltd are the EU Registered Design Licence holders of the “Doscard� licence numbers: 006586137-001 and 0065861370002. Visit Doscard.com for more detailed information.
FuneralTimes | 35
You Only Get One Chance W
e all have our own likes and dislikes, favourites and pet hates and this applies to all avenues of life, including funeral services. There is more choice and variety available now than there ever was before but this can lead to conflict, particularly at a time of heightened emotions. Funerals can bring out the best and the worst in people. Some people rise to the occasion and deal brilliantly with the situation, others don’t, and that’s just how people are. When it comes to a civil funeral, there is a huge amount of choice available to the family of the deceased. The choice of music or songs, poetry or readings, who is to speak, who is to conduct the service and where that service is to be held all have to be decided and within a short space of time. But before ever getting to that point conflict can arise within a family when some people may want a traditional Mass or church service and be very upset at the prospect of a civil service. Mary Elizabeth Dillon of Civil Funerals Ireland has come across this situation several times and urges people to go with what their loved one specified or what they feel he or she would have wanted. If it feels wrong to have a church service
or it is only being chosen because ‘that is what is expected’, she would urge people to think again and be completely sure and at peace with their decision. You only get one chance to do this, she says, so please think carefully and have no regrets. Often times she has incorporated material into a civil service to give it a spiritual dimension, using Bible readings and prayers or asking for a minutes silence to allow for private prayer or reflection. While not being a religious service it goes some way to encompassing beliefs and can help families who are divided over what type of service to hold. Mary Elizabeth has been asked many times by Funeral Directors to speak to a family who are considering a civil service but are unsure for many reasons. Often times people are reassured by the conversation and feel this is the right thing to do and decide to engage her to carry out the service. It costs nothing, she says, to have that phone call and to book a service in full knowledge of what you are getting and knowing that you are going to have a personalised and loving service. Better to make the call than regret later a missed opportunity.
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: 0402 91273 / Mobile: 087 957 4476 Email: info@civilfuneralsireland.com 36 | FuneralTimes
Funerals conducted throughout Ireland
Representing the needs of almost 4,000 funeral homes, the National Association of Funeral Directors is the “Voice of the Funeral Profession”, supporting members and assuring the public of high standards for more than 100 years. The NAFD is influential • Consulted by Government on legislative issues • First call for the media on funeral / bereavement issues • Established cross party groups in all four UK Parliaments / Assemblies • Universally endorsed professional qualifications
The NAFD is inclusive • We are financially independent of any other organisation • We campaign on issues affecting all members equally • Members range from small independent firms to groups and Co-operatives • We are totally democratic with one member, one vote - irrespective of the number of funeral homes
The NAFD is supportive • Best benefits package within the sector, saving up to £5,000 a year on essential business costs • Free helplines for financial, legal and employment law, HR, public relations and repatriation issues • Free £5m professional indemnity insurance per UK funeral home member - unique within the sector • Free insurance against tribunal claims, H&S and tax prosecutions
The NAFD is trusted • NAFD members are trusted by consumers to deliver our Funeral Promise: • A funeral that is a fitting farewell, at a price they are comfortable with • Treating bereaved families with respect and acting with integrity • Fulfilling any special wishes and requests • The right to independent redress if the need should arise
Your business will be Stronger by Association with the NAFD. Apply to join today and start taking advantage of the benefits of membership. Call: Su Lewis on 0121 711 1343 ext. 20. Visit: www.nafd.org.uk/whyjointhenafd
NAFD News The NAFD is shortlisted for four Association Excellence Awards In July, the NAFD team were delighted to discover that the Association is a finalist in no less than four categories for the 19 Association Excellence Awards.
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he NAFD is up for Best Association Magazine for Funeral Director Monthly, for Best Longstanding Association Event for NFE 2019, for Best Association Team for the work of National Office and the many members who give up their time to support us - and for the coveted Overall Best Association Award too. Founded in 2014, the Association Excellence awards have gone from strength to strength and are the acknowledged accolade to recognise and reward the hard-won achievements of trade bodies, professionals membership organisations and associations. Bringing together an outstanding panel of judges, representing associations from every sector, these awards will recognise individuals, teams and initiatives and highlight excellence in how trade bodies operate and serve their members and clients. The NAFD was also shortlisted in the 2015 awards and took home an award for Funeral Director Monthly that year. The awards are organised by GCN Events, which organises a variety of conferences, events and awards programmes for commercial conference and association professionals and seeks to engender best practice across all the sectors represented by events companies, venues, associations, trade bodies, educational institutions, suppliers and governmental bodies. Shortlisted entries are reviewed by 33
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independent judges who are all chief executives of leading associations. The NAFD is up against the likes of Diabetes UK, the Royal College of Midwives, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, the Builders Merchant Federation, the Law Society of Scotland, the Royal College of General Practitioners and the National Police Federation in the various categories. Jon Levett, Chief Executive of the NAFD said: “I am delighted that the NAFD team’s work to support members in running their business in a time of scrutiny and change, to represent the Association to government and the media, to uphold and develop the standards and reputation of funeral directors and to organise events that inspire, inform and educate the sector has been recognised. “I am very proud of the whole NAFD team and all those who support them and hope that we will bring home at least one award, despite the undoubted calibre of our fellow finalists.” Winners will be revealed during a lunchtime awards ceremony, taking place at The Kia Oval on the 11 October.
FSCSR working groups get underway
Working group A
F
ollowing a meeting in June of the Funeral Service Consumer Standards Review (FSCSR) steering group, chaired by Lewis Shand Smith, the first meeting of Working Group A took place in July to review monitoring and inspection standards within the sector. It has now commenced work on a first draft of a new, industry-wide code of practice for the funeral directing profession in the United Kingdom. The purpose of Working Group A is to produce a robust and comprehensive code of practice for the funeral directing profession and recommendations on how compliance should be monitored, to be presented to the Steering Committee for approval. Once approved, the intention is for these to be incorporated by both major trade associations and presented to Government. The draft industry code of practice and list of inspection requirements will be reviewed by a Stakeholder Reference Group, comprising a wide range of consumer groups and experts in consumer markets, before the FSCSR Stakeholder Group presents its final report and
recommendations. Chaired by Natalie McKail, membership of the group includes the main funeral sector trade association, representatives from funeral firms large and small, representatives from consumer organisations and experts in regulatory matters. The Funeral Service Consumer Standards Review (FSCSR) is an independentlychaired project that brings together the skills and knowledge of industry experts and key stakeholders with a view to improving quality, standards and outcomes for funeral service consumers. The FSCSR was initiated to assess how standards and quality of service are inspected and reviewed and to develop joint solutions to existing issues, make clear recommendations to Government and produce an agreed code of practice and approach to how pricing information is made available to the public. The creation of the group was referenced in the Competition and Markets Authority’s final report, recommending a market investigation. FuneralTimes | 39
The NAFD raises concerns about overly complex CMA consultation material
I
n July, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) quietly published its most recent consultation document: Funeral Market Investigation: Approach to profitability and financial analysis. This fifty-page document of dense, technical jargon sets out the CMA’s proposed method for determining whether the recent profits of funeral directors and crematoria have been at a level to suggest competition problems in the market. The NAFD engaged Europe Economics, the consultancy advising the Association on economic issues arising from the CMA investigation, to provide insight into the detail of this document and support us in putting together a challenging response. Jon Levett, Chief Executive of the NAFD said: “Having assessed this complex document, we do not think the CMA’s proposed method will adequately deal with the fragmented nature of the funeral director market, which operates with a multiplicity of different business models with varying exposure to different risks. “Moreover, we are very concerned about the CMA’s approach to consultation on
this important document. Firstly, the technical language in the document itself impedes effective consultation. It is surely incumbent on any public body conducting a consultation to use language which is accessible to the intended consultees, which in this case clearly needed to include funeral directors, but not so obviously professional economists, for whom the document appeared to have been written. “Secondly, the time frame for consultation was ridiculously short and will have severely restricted the ability of many funeral firms to respond. The CMA only set a two-week window to submit responses to this consultation, during the height of the summer holiday period. “We made our objections to the CMA on these matters, and they have responded positively saying that they will be publishing a paper in non-technical language so that funeral directors are able to engage with the consultation process.” You can read the NAFD’s response in the Policy and Legislation section of the NAFD website.
The report of the Inspector of Funeral Directors, Scotland, calls for ‘progressive’ licensing scheme In August, the NAFD welcomed publication of the report of the Inspector of Funeral Directors in Scotland, which has been with ministers since the beginning of the year.
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he NAFD was particularly pleased to see a recommendation for the phased introduction of a ‘progressive’ licensing scheme for funeral firms in Scotland. This will ensure that the professionalism of all good funeral directors is recognised, support bereaved people in making an informed choice and help to weed out any firms that are not providing high levels of service to bereaved people.
40 | FuneralTimes
The Association was also pleased to note that the inspector has been impressed with the “consistency and quality of participation and engagement from the sector” and has found that funeral directors in Scotland demonstrate “good and improving practice in many areas” – with no evidence found that the sector is “substantially noncompliant.”
NAFD Chief Executive Jon Levett said: “We are delighted to have worked closely with the inspector and civil servants during the initial evidence-gathering period, and to have been able to assist towards the contents of the report. “We were disappointed to learn that the current inspector, Natalie McKail, would not be continuing in post. Funeral directors in Scotland have invested huge time and resource in assisting the Inspector – at the behest of the Government – and, now
that the report is published, we need to understand how the Government intends to proceed with the appointment of a new inspector, to ensure all that hard work doesn’t go to waste. “From the NAFD’s perspective, Natalie has done an excellent job in assessing the sector, thoroughly and independently, and on behalf of NAFD members we would like to thank for her diligence, constructive challenge and commitment to ensuring high standards in the sector for bereaved people.”
Jonathan Rees appointed as Independent Chair of NAFD Management Committee
F
ormer senior civil servant Prior to this Jonathan worked Jonathan Rees, a specialist in the Civil Service for 35 in public policy, consumer and years with a strong focus on competition issues, has been strategy, regulation, change appointed as the Independent Chair management and partnership of the Management Committee of working - including in the No 10 the National Association of Funeral Policy Unit, advising successive Directors. Prime Ministers (John Major Jonathan has very broad and Tony Blair) on strategy; in governance, public policy and Brussels dealing with European relationship management negotiations (both in the European Jonathan Rees experience. He is currently an Commission and in the Foreign independent Director of the Office) as well as in the Home Personal Finance Society, of the Office of Office, Cabinet Office, BEIS (dealing with the Independent Adjudicator for Higher consumer and competition policy) and the Education and of the Employers Network on Health and Safety Executive. Equality and Inclusion. Jonathan Rees joined the NAFD on 1 His previous non-executive director roles September and will address NAFD members include six years as a trustee of Citizens on his first impressions of the Association Advice and as a director of Ombudsman and the funeral profession at the Autumn Services. General Meeting on 10 October.
Come Together – in 2020! The NAFD heads to Liverpool for Annual Conference and AGM Next year, the NAFD’s Annual Conference and Annual General Meeting heads to the home of the Beatles, Liver Birds, Anfield and Aintree – the city of Liverpool. Packed full of interesting speakers, lively discussions and vibrant social events taking in the sights and sounds of the city, the dates for your diary are Thursday 30
April – Sunday 3 May 2020. With so much at stake as the Competition and Markets Authority completes it market investigation into the sector and the Burial and Cremation Act continues to be implemented in Scotland, will you join us, as we ‘come together’ as a profession to tackle challenges of the future? FuneralTimes | 41
FuneralTimes | 43
Our Crematorium, Facilities and Remembrance Garden are available 7 days a week to accommodate Families and Funeral Directors (no weekend surcharge)
Memorial Memoria aall Keepsakes es We also have a large supply of urns, casks es. and keepsakes.
Lakelands Crematorium, Dublin Rd, Cavan, Co. Cavan Tel: 049 4362200 / mob: 086 2458489 email: info@LakelandsCrematorium.ie www.LakelandsCrematorium.ie
Safety regulations for cremations With the rise of cremation numbers, Declan Finnegan of Lakelands Crematorium, Cavan, has warned of the potential safety risks of non-disclosure or missing information prior to cremation concerning medical devices, keepsakes like mobile phones, or other potential bio-hazards.
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ith the growing popularity of cremations, the list of pertinent issues surrounding them also increases as medical and other factors affect the conditions needed for a cremation to take place. While medical devices such as pacemakers and heart monitors can be literally lifesavers, they pose a very real and very serious risk to crematorium staff and equipment. While we live in a time of tightening data protection regulations, making the revealing of medical conditions, even in the deceased more involved, it remains of paramount importance to cremation services that such medical devices or relevant medical conditions be disclosed before the cremation takes place. During the embalming process, it may be evident that the deceased has had some devices implanted but this may not always be the case. Knowing what devices need to be deactivated or removed is essential for the safety of all involved as the embalmer/ cremation staff cannot assume anything about the deceased’s medical history. Implanted medical devices have a very specific purpose and are not designed to take the extremes of heat and pressure created during the cremation and some can explode in these conditions. Further damage and risk can be caused by the inclusion of certain items in the coffins, such as glass or plastic bottles, tin cans, mobile phones or other electronic devices. Sometimes such items
are placed with the deceased for personal or emotional reasons but funeral directors need to be aware of what, other than the deceased, is in the casket. The same vigilance and patience are needed when it comes to the possible presence of anything hazardous or contagious in the deceased if cremation is requested. If coffins are closed and secured because of a possible bio hazard, it may not be possible to cremate them, especially if it is accompanied by poor or incomplete medical records. If this is the case, and if further information cannot be provided by family, next of kin and/or medical personnel, other arrangements other than cremation may need to be arranged. Given all of this, the clarity and detail of cremation forms is increasingly important. Here at Lakelands Crematorium, as we continually aim to set high standards, both in terms of the services offered and in any and all legal, health and safety requirements, we are currently updating our cremation forms for both Northern and Southern Ireland funeral directors. We intend to discuss these new forms, procedures and policies with Funeral Directors and embalmers in the not-too-distant future to ensure continuing high standards, diligence and awareness among all those planning or providing cremation services. FuneralTimes | 45
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Doing it the Easyway By Dennis Daulton
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t happened several years ago, thirteen to be exact, and I can’t get it out of my mind. We’ve all experienced those cases which we recall over and over again, hoping someday to forget. I sometimes think about my Connecticut colleagues, along with the first responders, who had to face and endure the tragedy that happened at Sandy Hook, CT in December of 2012. Without question we serve when summoned. I’m also reminded of particular challenges I faced when discussing the use of wax and restorative techniques with colleagues, when doing an embalming program or speaking at a mortuary school. I need to stress the fact (not as a sales representative, but as an embalmer) that every funeral home should know about Easyway and to have it on hand. Sooner or later you will need it. Wax works well, but not nearly as well as Easyway. Let me take you back to that Friday evening when I thought my day and work week was over. The call came from a funeral home owner and a good friend, now deceased. I was his Dodge rep at the time and did trade embalming at his firm for many years. “Dennis, my embalmer is ill and I desperately need your help tonight. On a call we are handling the medical examiner said there will be no autopsy, but it isn’t a pretty sight. Are you available?” I was. He went on to explain that the individual died from severe blood loss due to cutting his own throat. If you have your own well-stocked embalming kit, which you should if you are a trade embalmer, you will be able to meet most any challenge. Just hope that the funeral home you’re going to has all the
Dennis divides his time working in his Dodge sales territory in northeastern Massachusetts, and being in the office manning the technicalsupport line, along with helping out with customer service. chemicals and supplies you’ll need. For years I’ve been sure to have several bottles of both Dis-Spray and Basic Dryene with me, and recently added Halt GX, for that unexpected tissue gas case. My mind was racing as I drove the old New England back roads to my friend’s funeral home that late evening. Cut his own throat? How could anyone do that to himself, I thought. On occasion the case at hand triggers the memory of a particular death of long ago. I was recalling on this night the death nearly 57 years ago of an elderly woman who had gone into her sauna, which was out behind the barn near the chicken coop. With a one edge razor blade she cut deep into both of her armpits, multiple times, and slowly bled to death on the sauna floor. As a young apprentice I was horrified. The self-mutilation was sickening. In my mind I can still smell her blood. This came back to me this night as I anticipated what I might encounter. Armpits can be hidden. It’s hard to hide a neck. Fortunately I had a good mentor back then… several over the years, in fact. The best way to learn is to stand next to a competent embalmer. Be thankful if you find a good teacher and one who is patient and takes the time to instruct. It’s also a plus if he or she reassures and freely compliments when it is appropriate. Mine did. Everyone needs encouragement. Besides, someday the student just might embalm the teacher. Think about that if you are currently the teacher. I’ve embalmed several of my mentors. I arrived at the funeral home just as the removal personnel were returning from the medical examiner’s office with the deceased. FuneralTimes | 47
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Anxiously, I stood on the opposite side of the table where the stretcher was placed. I pulled the pouched body towards me onto the table. I gently unzipped the pouch and was horrified by what I saw. This handsome, solidly built, middle-aged man, a disabled Gulf War veteran, was around 6’3” tall and weighed about 240 pounds. The deep cuts in his throat were repulsive. It appeared that he used a scalpel, or an extremely sharp knife to end his life. There were two cuts. The second, deeper laceration was longer… ear to ear. This laceration was so deep that the jugular vein was clearly visible when I took two aneurism hooks to separate the flesh to locate the jugular vein and common carotid artery. These lacerations are what we usually see on automobile accident cases when the body has come in contact with glass or sharp metal. It seemed impossible that this was self-inflicted. The first thing we need to do on such cases is to stand back, take a deep breath, and assess our approach. We should then topically disinfect the deceased, position the body on body rests, and wash it thoroughly. The deceased’s blood-soaked clothing was partially removed by the emergency/hospital personnel. He was covered with blood. I topically disinfected the body by liberally spraying Dis-Spray, followed by cleansing with Germasidol Soap which is now called Dodge Prep Soap. An abrasive soap pad is helpful, but be careful when using it on any tissue which will be shown, such as the face and hands. Another helpful product is a degreaser, a concentrated solution sold in a gallon jug which can be purchased at most hardware or discount stores. It is an excellent blood solvent, especially on dried blood, and it also removes the ink used by the medical examiner’s office for finger printing. I was able to embalm this case with a one point injection (carotid), and drained intermittently via the jugular vein using a drain tube. Building up back pressure with the drain tube assured complete saturation of all tissue and reduced the chance of multiple point injections. I used a combination of Introfiant, Metasyn Firming, Rectifiant, Metaflow, Restorative, and
Icterine Dye, along with warm water. I also added eight ounces per gallon of Dis-Spray as a precaution for possible tissue gas. Following the arterial injection, cavity aspiration, and injection of Dri Cav cavity chemical into the thoracic and abdominal cavities, I placed cotton into the lacerations and saturated them with Basic Dryene, using a syringe to slowly dribble the product onto the cotton. This phenol chemical cauterized the tissue prior to suturing. After trimming and cleaning his fingernails, I removed the cotton and sprayed the area with Dis-Spray, which neutralizes the phenol odor. I applied an adequate amount of White Kalon Massage Cream below the incision to prevent the burning of normal tissue if the Basic Dryene drips down (which it usually does). The case was coming along nicely. I learned over the years never to rush, and never to put a time limit on the challenge at hand. Just keep going until you become so tired you can’t work any longer, and plan on returning at a later time to finish. Or work until the job is done. Sometimes we don’t have the luxury of returning. The hour was getting late, but I was getting that second wind because I was gradually seeing positive results. Both incisions were sutured with a waxed polyester thread, Dodge’s #761411. I prefer this strong, small thread for suturing the carotid incision, and it is especially good for a head autopsy. Fortunately, I had an Easyway kit in my car. Have you ever heard of or used Easyway? It was developed by the dental field. It is a two-part mixture of a powder and a liquid. Mixed together, it becomes a gel, similar to honey, and hardens to a rubbery substance. Unlike when using wax, the remains can be moved without cracking the restored area and family members can touch the area without damaging it. Once applied to tissue, sulci lines can be created and smoothed over with Dry Wash II, which is the solvent. These sulci lines can be drawn using the edge of a spatula. Or sharpen one end of a cosmetic brush in a pencil sharpener and use the point to draw these lines and indentations so that it looks like normal tissue. The “smooth FuneralTimes | 49
look” is too artificial looking. When using wax, you should also apply the sulci lines. Dry Wash II is also a good thinner for wax and it will smooth out the “natural” lines (sulci) on Easyway before it sets. A liberal application of the powder that comes with the kit, and brushing it off, sets the product to receive the application of cosmetics. This last step is critical. “Easyway Tips & Techniques,” written by my associate at Dodge, Jay Rhodes, is available on our website under technical information. Scroll down to Embalming Articles, or contact our office or your Dodge rep for a copy to be emailed, faxed, or mailed to you. Remember the days when we could only use wax and hoped that no one would touch the area, or that it would not be disturbed when casketing the body? Those days are over when using Easyway. My responsibility on this case was only to embalm the body. I was not expected to be involved with restoration, dressing, and casketing. The funeral home personnel did this quite well. I just couldn’t leave this night knowing there was something else I could do to greatly enhance the appearance of the deceased. I had learned from the owner of the funeral home that the gentleman’s parents and his only daughter wanted desperately to see him. He was divorced. I mixed the Easyway and applied it over the sutures. The results were astounding. The owner of the funeral home returned to the embalming room just as I was finishing. He was always appreciative, but he was a man of few words, and he didn’t excite easily. His comment was, “Wow! I can’t believe it!” He would become the hero to this family, and they’d forever be grateful. If the truth be known, few of us in this profession want to be heroes. What we want is that when the funeral is over, it was a positive experience for the family and friends. That’s all we can hope for. I returned to this funeral home on a sales call two days later and was able to see the deceased several hours prior to his funeral. He was dressed in his military uniform. Easyway extended up from under his shirt collar. Everything appeared perfectly normal. Even the trained eye would not 50 | FuneralTimes
notice a difference between this product and human tissue. Another great quality about Easyway is that a translucent cosmetic can be applied over it. Wax, on the other hand, requires opaque cosmetics only, is easily disturbed, and rubs off. I did make one mistake the evening of the embalming. I had peeled a bit off shortly after it dried. The rubbery, adhesive product does peel off when much effort is used, but it leaves a line of demarcation or a slight ridge the farther back you peel from the edge. This was on the left side and could not be readily seen. When blending onto the tissue with Dry Wash II, it can be feathered out and appears to be human tissue. My peeling taught me to leave well enough alone. The deceased was an artist. His paintings were displayed throughout the funeral home for those in attendance to see and appreciate. One might wonder what he could have accomplished in life if things had been different. We never know the burdens others carry. I looked at his paintings, and then glanced at him in his casket as I had some private moments alone with him prior to the service. What a tragic loss this was, I thought. Somehow I had difficulty realizing this was the same person I embalmed several days earlier. Easyway made it all possible. Without viewing, this family might have wondered for the rest of their lives what his physical condition was. Now there was no need to wonder. His family, relatives, and friends were well aware, I was told, of the manner and cause of his death. If you would like to be added to the mailing list for the complementary Dodge Magazine which is printed quarterly or would like to discuss any of the products mentioned in this article, please contact us: Shepherds Funeral Supplies, Unit 2A Royal Canal Business Park, Athlone Road, Co. Longford. Ph. 00353 43 3349702/00353 87 2486668
H E N R Y PATO N + C o . L t d
Join the association that’s leading the way. Representing and promoting the interests of 850 independent funeral directors. SAIF is at the forefront of tackling the big industry issues that matter to you. As the united voice of independent funeral directors we have led the way in setting the highest standards of professionalism and conduct within the industry. By joining SAIF you too can demonstrate that you uphold this same commitment. For over 25 years SAIF has been promoting and protecting the interests and values of independent funeral directors. Supporting our members is at the heart of everything we do, listening, responding and engaging to secure your independent future.
Join SAIF now: visit saif.org.uk or call us on 0345 230 6777 or 01279 726 777
52 | FuneralTimes
A
SAIF NEWS ... SAIF NEWS ... SAIF Website www.saif.org.uk
re you a SAIF member? When was the last time that you accessed the members’ area of the website? Why should I access the member’s area? This is a ‘free’ and invaluable resource to our members and holds a wealth of exclusive information, such as: • Resources including business templates • Government, industry guidance & breaking news relevant to you as a funeral director or associate as well as issues that affect the funeral profession e.g.: • Information on the Children’s’ Fund • Cremation Regulations • Competitions Market Authority (CMA) • Prospective new members & associates • Advanced education materials like web articles & webinars
• HR Resource Centre • Ability to pay annual subscription (which is accessible at the end of the year) • Toolkits To access this area either click on the ‘members area ‘tab or https://saif.org.uk/ login/
May 2020 Bank Holiday T
o commemorate the 75th anniversary of VE Day, the government has decided to move the early bank holiday in May 2020 from Monday 4th to Friday 8th May, which applies to England, Wales and Northern Ireland. This is not an extra bank holiday but a one-off date change. Due to this change it will be a prime time for competing holiday applications therefore it is advisable to stipulate in advance rules/restrictions such as ‘first come first serve basis’ or even prohibit holiday applications over specific times of the year. Voluntary Overtime and Holiday Pay There is no automatic right for voluntary overtime to be included in holiday pay calculations. However, if the overtime worked is sufficiently regular i.e. occurs consistently every week, as opposed to occasionally then this should be included.
Code of Conduct – Yes or No !! Due to the very nature of our profession, workplace etiquette is essential to your business but do you include a Code of Conduct with your employees’ contract? Not forgetting of course that SAIF Code of Practice clearly states that members must conduct themselves in a totally professional manner at all times, both professionally and privately. If you don’t have a Code of Conduct in situ it might be an idea to put something together. This could cover; dignity at work, dress and appearance, confidentiality and anything basically that you feel could be included. You won’t be able to cover everything of course, the list could be quite exhausting, but at least your staff will have a better idea of what you will or won’t accept. A template is available on the HR section on the members’ area. FuneralTimes | 53
Glyn Tallon to speak at Canadian Conference
Renowned Irish embalmer Glyn Tallon, who has contributed much over the years, both to the industry as a whole and to this publication, was recently announced as a speaker at the upcoming Ontario Funeral Service Association 2019 AGM and Conference.
T
he Canadian School of Advanced Postmortem Reconstruction and Embalming Practices, responsible for the seminar, is just one international body Glyn has worked with over the years, given the value he has placed on international cooperation, education and skill-sharing. The Canadian School of Advanced PREP is based in Ontario Canada with a mission to further the knowledge and skills of the North American Funeral Director and Embalmer by Educating, Improving, and Inspiring. Having originally studied at the Belfast College of Embalming in the North, he was awarded a Diploma in Embalming and became a registered member of the BIE, adding to this membership of the European Association of Embalmers in 2000.
54 | FuneralTimes
The topic for the seminar, held at Hockley Valley (Mono), Ontario - September 23 & 24, 2019 is ‘Becoming a Better Embalmer – Tips, Skills and New Perspectives to Fend Off Irrelevancy in the Cremation Age’. The increase in families seeking cremation has lessened the requirement of embalming services to some extent. The discussion will be around the presentation of reallife scenarios and solutions for providing tangible methods and techniques in order to promote and increase requests for viewing and embalming, altering the viewpoint that cremation and embalming cannot co-exist within the same funeral. Internationally, Glyn’s quest for mastery over embalming techniques and practice has seen him enroll with The Fountain National
Academy of Professional Embalming Skills in Missouri, USA back in 2000, subsequently forming a relationship, which has seen him attend a series of courses, seminars and workshops. A motivated and dedicated professional, Glyn has long prided himself in promoting education and practical skills through both teaching new students and continuing the professional refreshment and development training of registered embalmers. His list of accreditations is, frankly, too long to recite, however just a selection of those awarded on an international basis include affiliation with the American Society of Embalmers in 2007, International guest speaker at the Australian Institute of Embalmers in 2011 and Global Disaster Victim Identification in 2002.
We wish Glyn all the very best with his latest endeavour and look forward to hearing about it in the next issue.
Tallon Mortuary y Specialists Professional, Confidential and Caring Services
School of Embalming Qualify for membership of an internationally recognised embalming qualification (BIE) at your own pace • The ‘Tallon Mortuary Specialists Sch School hooll of Embalming’ offers students and reg registered giste ered d embalmers the highest standards off so teaching and practice in a supportive ortiv ve environment, with full use of ourr training facility. • We offer both Distance Learning g and attended courses leading to o membership of the British Institute of Embalmers For further information and to discuss how this course might work for you please contact us:
Glyn Tallon - 14 Academy Street, Navan, Co. Meath Tel: 086 826 8876 / Fax: 046 903 6001 Web: www.tallonmortuaryspecialists.com Email: info@tallonmortuaryspecialists.com FuneralTimes | 55
CREMATION CREMATION JEWELLERY JEWELLERY Cremated remains FUSED with glass Cremated remains FUSED with glass creates a unique piece for your client. creates a unique piece for your client.
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VENUES - not yours or the church By Jennifer Muldowney
H
ave you ever thought about having a funeral anywhere other than a funeral home or a church? Remains can be most welcome in a lot of locations around the island of Ireland if only one poses the question in the first place! A lot of millennials these days are burying their parents and grandparents and sadly, even some of their friends, and they are opting for venues that do not remind them of death, grief and loss, instead opting to celebrate the life. Mourning a death is not as attractive as celebrating a life, which can be a problem in itself but more on that psychology another day. When looking at a venue that does not typically house a funeral or a memorial, what should you look for? Here is an event planners guide to questions to ask your new venue: ACCESS • What time can you have access on the morning of the event? • Is a BODY allowed? If so, how will it be brought in?
• Is there a goods lift? What is the unloading procedure? • Is the venue fully accessible? Do the maximum room capacities allow for wheelchair users to move around freely? • How can the venue be accessed via public transport? • Is there any charge for parking? • When must the venue be clear after the event? AUDIO VISUAL • What AV, if any, is included in the venue hire? • Is there any built-in equipment in any of the rooms, e.g. ceiling mounted projectors, screens? Great for showing images of the deceased. FOOD AND BEVERAGE • What are the minimum numbers for the booking/what is the minimum spend commitment? • You won’t typically be able to give a final number of attendees but give a guestimate.
FuneralTimes | 57
• Will they supply food and drink or will you have to seek an outside caterer? • Is bottled mineral water or iced tap water used? Is there a charge for water? Will water be on the tables? ADMIN • What paperwork does the venue require from you and your suppliers e.g. risk assessment? • What are the evacuation instructions for wheelchair users? Where are the refuge points? POWER AND ELECTRICAL • How many outlets are available for guests? Will additional power need to be brought in? Millienials love their mobile phones! SECURITY • Is any security provided by the venue? • Is it possible to increase the security provision if your event requires it? High profile funerals need this. Just a few questions to consider with a venue of your choice. Remember ANY venue can be converted into the celebration of a lifetime as is visible in these two
contrasting images where an extremely corporate looking space was transformed into a heavenly, fresh, elegant and beautiful celebration of the life of a very young lady. Add in music, words, images and other pieces to the puzzle and you take funerals from old age, to new age while retaining the beautiful sentimentality and emotion of a traditional funeral.
Currie Repatriation
Dungannon, Co. Tyrone
• Daily service operates to/from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales • Mortuary collections nationwide • All vehicles fully insured • Quotations available on request For further information contact Gary T:07789 134798 or Ciara T:07425 156451 58 | FuneralTimes
Visit our new premises or go online for the latest products on offer! View and order from our wide range of products online
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DJ MacNeice & Co. Ltd. Unit 3, Union Road Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo F91 AKW5 Tel: (+353) 01 8828731 Email: sales@djmacneice.com
The Benefits of PEAI Membership # 1 Continuing education: The PEAI educational programmes which provide updates on any issues that affect their jobs. # 2 Networking opportunities: Professional association’s periodic meetings offer events throughout the year that allow professionals to network with their peers. You’ll forge lasting ties with others who have common professional interests and similar business concerns. These relationships will be a rich, ongoing source of inspiration and ideas. We try to accommodate nationwide meeting venue locations. # 3 Access to resources: Offer helpful information about our industry. Such resources may also provide news about upcoming events, conferences, meetings, and even career opportunities not publicized elsewhere. # 4 New perspective: Working as an embalmer can become extremely busy and can get stuck in their own little bubbles. Being around other industry professionals with different viewpoints will expose you to new ideas and outlooks. This can have a very positive effect not only on your personal growth and development but also your mental health. # 5 Professional developments: Beyond proven certification provide some form of professional development opportunities. These come in the form of workshops programme.
60 | FuneralTimes
# 6 Getting your name out there: Professional organizations can be a great way to increase your own visibility, this increased visibility can be essential when trying to enhance your own professional trade service, especially in the beginning of your career. #7 The PEAI supply all members with embalming certificates for repatriation cases.
The Benefits to the undertaker operating with our members. You can be assured that all our members are continuously enhancing their skills and stay ahead of industry trends and techniques with our educational programmes. As a result of availing of our members service our members will aid you to provide a better service to your clients. The PEAI has an established Code of Professional Conduct which must be adhered to by all of it's members while practicing embalming. All are members are provided with Professional Identification cards and embalming documentation required to accompany repatriation cases. With you in mind please view our list of members available nationwide listed by county for your convenience www. professionalembalmers.ie All members must meet certain criteria before being accepted into the Association.
New members welcome “Have a voice in Ireland and Europe� Email us for application via Secretary@professionalembalmers.ie
secretary@professionalembalmers.ie
www.professionalembalmers.ie
Obit software Q&A In this edition, we talked to Joanne Cooney of James Cooney Funeral Directors, New Ross, Co. Wexford who started using Obit in March 2017 What do you see as the main benefits of Obit for your business?
full use of as yet, so perhaps I need the developing rather than Obit.
Simple, easy-to-use, overview of funeral all to hand in a matter of seconds. Time spent on administration cut in half, information can be uploaded to the system directly from the phone, massive benefit when uploading photos of graves and recording plot numbers. Raising invoices done in a matter of seconds and with incredible ease.
How do you rate the support by Lytesoft for Obit? Excellent! I cannot say enough about their support. No matter what query I have or indeed what time I send the query, it is always dealt with immediately and always resolved.
What functions or areas would you like to see Obit develop more? All major areas have been addressed by Obit. There are some features that I haven’t made
sales@obit.ie 62 | FuneralTimes
LATEST NEWS - You can now easily add old aged funerals using a newly built-in tool. Just ask for a demo if interested. You can then use the reporting tool to get a very precise map of your history that may help in your marketing efforts.
www.obit.ie
c 2019 Lytesoft
Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke
Mini Warning – How you BeStroke, aware Massive to prevent Heart Disease can help yourself and others.
Heart disease not only shortens your life but also reduces the number of healthy years you Consultant Stroke Physician, have to enjoy it. Currently, in Northern Ireland, Dr Brian Gallen, sits on Northern the number of people living with coronary heart Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke’s is 73,835. fact, 17 people go to the Boarddisease of Governors andIn believes with ahe suspected manyhospital of the patients works withheart attack every day. had aSo TIAwhat before their fulldo stroke, can you to reduce the risk of a heart oftenattack withouthappening, realising. and what should you do if one strikes? “I regularly see patients who have had a Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) or mini-stroke, before their full What is heart disease? stroke. Somedisease have been diagnosed Heart is caused by a build-up of fatty but often when I am assessing deposits in the arteries. If your arteries become and treating them, they will tell me completely blocked, it can cause a heart attack. about other recent symptoms, attacksI believe can permanently damage the whichHeart in retrospect were signs of a TIA. heart muscle and if not treated straight away can
be fatal.
important things you can control such as -
Stroke and Carers Support • Watching your weight Groups:active providing the chance • Keeping physically to take part in activities to • Eating a balanced diet build confidence and increase • Moderatingindependence alcohol intakewith people in • Managing your stress levels similar situations. • Getting enough sleep PREP & Taking Control • Stopping smoking Programmes: helping to rebuild • Have your cholesterol and Blood pressure lives and confidence. levels checked. Prevention: individual health
advice public health The symptoms of a and heart attack varyawareness from campaigns. person to person but remembering the STOP acronym can help identify a heart attack:
Research: funding ground– breaking local research which changes S Something’ s not lives. right – symptoms can
“Every day I see the devastation start slowly How your donations support our that stroke causes. I see patients Often when we think of a heart attack we work. who have a life of disability ahead T Tightness or pain in the chest, pain in the Brian Gallen, Consultant £10 – Will provide 25 crucial ‘Life of them, partners families who imagine theand ‘Hollywood Heart Dr Attack’ someone Stroke Physician. arm, neck or jaw After Stroke’ information booklets, become carers overnight, and of clutching their chest, experiencing sudden and to help stroke survivors rebuild of course the grief of those whose O Other symptoms such as shortness severe chest pains, sweating and breathlessness. their lives. loved ones did not survive. that if someone gets treatment for a TIA, through a TIA clinic,breath, their nausea or sweating However, tells usaonlyrisk one of is reduced. A TIA £17 – Pays for a visit from a Stroke “There are manyresearch ways to prevent of athird full stroke P Phone 999 immediately – the ambulance Family Support Co-ordinator in the strokepeople happening the first placeattack is aexperience warning sign that cannot be whoinhave a heart crew willaftermath do an ECG. of a stroke. and athese good place to start is by ignored.” fast-onset symptoms. We also need to recognising the body’s own warning watch for slow-onset symptoms. These start £25of– STOP Pays for person to mechanism, the TIA. There’s a NICHS has recently launched an letter last isone very important – in the timeawareness leading upcampaign to the to The attend a PREP scheme for a week. leafletgradually enclosedand withbuild this pack highlight999 immediately. Phone There’ s no time to heart attack. which lists the warning signs to look what you need to know about mini wasteon when chest strikes.upEvery minute that £50 –pain Will enable to 5 people out for. strokes. For more information passes can mean the difference between life to attend NICHS’s weekly Stroke the ‘Mini Stroke, Massive Warning’ • Unusual tiredness and sleep disturbances Activity Groups. “A TIA has the same symptoms and campaign visit www.nichs.org.uk/ and death. Our advice is to call 999 rather than • Unexplained causes as a full stroke.anxiety But during a ministroke driving the patient to hospital, because the am• Frequent indigestion – Will paytreatment for 4 hoursatofthe a scene TIA the body breaks down the clot bulance crew£100 can provide • lasting Heart damage racing has been clinical researcher’s time, to carry before out research into the diagnosis done•toAching the brain. arms and tingling hands For more information on heart conditions and treatment of chest, heart and and • Chest pain stroke illnesses. “But when you are experiencing how Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke the symptoms, you don’t know if 1 in 10 people who havecan a mini help, please visit our Reducing risk Heart Disease they will go away oryour not, so youof need stroke will suffer a full stroke website at www.nichs.org. to callThere 999. are some things you can’t within a week. control which
mean you are at a higher risk of having a heart
uk/heartconditions.
“The statistics say it all – 1 in 10 How NICHS can help: attack, like ayour age, orStroke whether youSupport: helping people who have TIA go ongender, to Family a family history of high blood pressure, high days have ahave full stroke within a week. families in the difficult However a recent study hasattacks. shown But cholesterol or heart there are some following a stroke. FuneralTimes | 63
The evolution of a classic
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Our Mercedes E-Class vehicles are the embodiment of clean lines and modern elegance. Built to the highest standards using the finest materials, Mercedes ceremonial vehicles offer an unparalleled specification and are available in both petrol or diesel variants. Underpinned by the technical excellence of the Mercedes E-Class range, our vehicles boast innovative features and options to create a range of exquisite funeral vehicles.
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An Anvil, chickens and lovely songs By Mattie Lennon
I was at a funeral some time ago and I was told a story about the deceased. I can’t swear to its veracity but I’ll give it to you verbatim, as I heard it; “As a young man he went into Blessington and in a well-known hardware store he bought a bucket and an anvil. He then stopped at the feed store/live-poultry dealer and picked up a couple of chickens and a goose. However, he had a problem... How to carry his entire purchase home. The feed store owner, not wanting to miss a sale, said, ‘Why don’t you put the anvil in the bucket, carry the bucket in one hand, put a chicken under each arm and carry the goose in your other hand?’ ‘I didn’t think of that‘ says yer man, and out the door he went. As he was heading out the Lacken road he was approached by a little old lady who told him she was lost and asked if he could tell her way to Ballinastockan . ‘I’m walkin’ to Ballinastockan’ says yer man ‘ye can come wit’ me an’ we’ll be there in no time’. The little old lady looked him over cautiously, and then said, ’I am a lonely widow without a husband to defend me. How do I know that when we get on the lonely part of the road you won’t hold me up against the wall, pull up my skirt, and ravish me?’ ‘Now’ says yer man ‘I’m carrying a bucket, an anvil, two chickens, and a goose. How the Hell could I possibly hold you up against a wall and do that?’ The lady said, ‘Set the goose down, cover him with the bucket, put the anvil on top of the bucket, and I’ll hold the chickens.’ Overheard at funeral in Tallaght; “What killed him?” “He sneezed.” “You don’t $%&*! die from sneezing.” “You do if you’re hiding in a wardrobe and a husband comes home early.” 66 | FuneralTimes
It was during the Tour de France and the following dialogue was overheard at a wake-house in Ballyknockan; “Wouldn’t ye wonder at thim lads giving themselves such hardship. Ridin’ bikes up hills an’ down hills.” “Listen. The winner of that will be world famous and will become a multimillionaire.” “I know that. But what’s the rest of them doing it for?” They say that talent borrows but genius steals. I’m wondering if a certain undertaker is guilty of IP (Infringement of the intellectual property rights) of IKEA. He is after coming up with a brilliant idea by producing a prototype of a build-it-yourself coffin. He will supply the oak panels which will double as a stereo unit, wine-rack or dining room table (Wouldn’t the latter give a new meaning to “Eating yourself into the grave”?) A useful piece of furniture until needed for the ultimate purpose. The pack will come with a set of instructions, dowels, screws, mountings etc. He has asked me to respect his anonymity until he is ready to go into full production, otherwise he would be in grave danger of being snowed under with orders at this stage. It is claimed that rock music has played a role in breaking the taboo against public mention of death. One way or the other death themes are expressed in numerous songs from the humorous to the poetic to the deeply moving. Yes, there are so many lovely songs to sing as we are reminded on the tombstone of our greatest playwright, John B. Keane.
Jimmy a very sick Dublin man is lying in bed. He realises he doesn’t have much time left, so he asks his nurse to bring his wife, daughter, and both sons to him, as well as witnesses and a camera to record his last wishes. When all are assembled, their eyes misty and their faces drawn, he begins to speak. “My son, Jem I want you to take the Dominick Street houses.” “My daughter Kate, you take the apartments between Camden Street and Charlemount Street.”
“My son, Mick, I want you to take the offices over in the Financial Centre.” “ Molly, my dear wife, please take all the residential buildings on the Southside of the canal.” The nurse and witnesses are blown away as they did not realise his extensive holdings, and as Jimmy slips away, the nurse says: “Mrs. Doyle, your husband must have been such a hard-working man to have accumulated all this property. The wife just grunts. “The bastard was a window cleaner”.
WISE WORDS “Advice in old age is foolish; for what can be more absurd than to increase our provisions for the road the nearer we approach to our journey’s end.” Which reminds me; I read two interesting items in a newspaper of record recently. The first one said that a recent study showed that 88% of people don’t want a cashless society and the second informed us that the 2021 Census Form will include a “Blank for your own greeting.” With regard to the first I can only say that there was a “cashless society” in Kylebeg in the 1960s. And as for the second I have a plan but it’s not printable.
LIBERTY TRADING
Supplier of Coffin Fittings & Linings to the Funeral Trade Quality Products at Competitive Prices Rosewood, Moylough, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway Contact: Micheal Somers
Tel: +353 (0)86 3126413 Email: libertytrading@eircom.net
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New from Fearghas R. Gibneydelivery of Gibneys of Oldcastle Funeral Directors, collectsQuinn his new hearse from Fearghas Quinn Hearse Limousines. Fearghas Quinnand delivering a new Insignia 5 door model to Ernie Gibson and Jimmy McFadden, Co Donegal
Fleet Available for Interhire 171 Hearse 2 x 181 Limousines E Class Saloon Private E Class Ambulance
68 | FuneralTimes
Coleman Milne celebrate most successful NFE yet! T
he 2019 NFE was a roaring success for Coleman Milne with a record number of new vehicle orders taken over the course of the event. This year’s show marked CM’s first time exhibiting in Hall 1 where they showcased a fresh and sharp new look, signifying the future direction of the business. The event also marked a first-time appearance for several new additions to what is now the broadest range of funeral vehicles in Europe. Following their launch in 2018, the Norwood and Rosedale self-charging hybrids made their NFE debut in the outside display, while the new E-Class Continental completely stole the show on stand! This new variant of the popular E-Class hearse – also outfitted with the new Vogue Grey deck – was a resounding hit with visitors over the three days, including new NAFD President, David Barrington. In recognition of the evolving funeral market, Coleman Milne’s display vehicles this year also included the Ceremony Appropriate removal vehicle. This innovative vehicle is the first of its kind and incorporates a series of ideal features to accommodate the rising demand for direct cremations. As well as new vehicles, the NFE also
served as the formal unveiling of the new Aftercare service and its accompanying app, where customers have access to a range of features including a nationwide network of service centres and direct communications with the aftercare team. Reflecting on the show, National Sales Manager Graham Clow commented: “I’m thrilled with the outcome of this year’s show. It was a resounding triumph for our engineering and production teams, who have worked tirelessly to deliver yet another exquisite Coleman Milne vehicle.” Coleman Milne would also like to express their gratitude to everyone who paid a visit over the course of the show and are already making plan for NFE 2021.
Coleman Milne used this year’s NFE to showcase their plans for the future FuneralTimes | 69
The magazine for rs Funeral Directo in Ireland
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What is the strangest funeral you have led? C
harlotte Carter of www.standard.co.uk recently published an article highlighting the ‘Death of the traditional funeral’, with the rise of ‘Disney themed ceremonies, vintage fire engines and ash-filled fireworks’ just some of the examples of the sparkling, different and importantly, personal, ways people have chosen to mark the end of a life. While the article may begin by stating the day of the religious funeral being considered the norm is coming to an end, it must be taken into account that the basis of this was the findings of Co-op who, despite their dominant presence in the UK, have a significantly smaller influence across the island of Ireland. It is worth noting however the dramatic uptake on Civil Funeral Ceremonies across Ireland in the past few years, with people seeking increasingly personalised and unique tributes. The Irish are often considered, after all, to be a religious people, traditional values very much entrenched in the everyday lives of those across the country. If the Co-op survey holds any indication of what may be, albeit grudgingly, to come for Ireland, it would be that 23 percent of people were found to want a ‘traditional funeral’, with more and more opting for
Coming to a funeral near you? less conventional ways to celebrate the end of life, with wakes at fast food eateries and beloved pets leading the cortege standing out. Themed funerals too have been seen to rise in popularity, with one Edinburgh-based director recently leading a Disney-themed service for a child. A particularly poignant affair to be sure, the family requested the funeral director dress as Elsa from Frozen, a favourite character of the deceased, and walk before the hearse. Although it seems relatively unlikely for the people of Mullingar to find themselves held up by a cortege featuring Barney the dinosaur on too regular a basis in the near future, the findings from Co-op at least give something to think about.
Or...something closer to home FuneralTimes | 71
Dr Bill Webster
Thoughts and prayers W
hen we are grieving, it is good to know that someone is thinking of you and even praying for you. But sadly, these good sentiments are often conveyed in an idiom that has become somewhat hackneyed. I’m referring to the oft used expression, “Thoughts and Prayers.” This phrase has been popularized recently by politicians and public officials offering condolences after any publicly notable event such as a deadly natural disaster or after the mass shootings and acts of terror that have plagued our world in the last couple of decades. Thoughts and prayers are good. But if they are not accompanied by actions, the words seem meaningless and hollow. When tragedies like shootings, bombings or any horrific acts of terror occur, people demand to know what can be done to prevent such things from happening. Things could change if those in government had the will, but often influential political lobbies make inaction the norm. But hey, we have to “do something”, so we are sending our “thoughts and prayers.” The term “semantic saturation” is used describe the phenomenon in which a word or phrase is repeated so often it loses its meaning. It becomes something ridiculous, a jumble of letters that feels like a foreign language on the tongue and reads like gibberish on paper. “Thoughts and prayers” has reached that full semantic saturation. The catchphrase has gone from being a sincere expression of condolence to being 72 | FuneralTimes
almost laughable. Comedians, cartoonists, media companies and everyday social media users have turned the phrase on its head. Political satire obviously isn’t new, but sarcasm is the trend that has become the first response to expressions of “thoughts and prayers”. After 14 people were killed in a shooting in San Bernardino, California the New York Daily News, known for its bold, attentiongrabbing headlines, ditched the wordplay. In response to tweets by four prominent Republican leaders offering “thoughts and prayers”, the headline screamed: “GOD ISN’T FIXING THIS!” In one highly-shared image that circulated after another shooting, “Thoughts and Prayers” is imprinted on the side of a garbage truck, seen discharging its load of trash at the dump. Another picture shows the inside of an empty van. “Excellent news,” the caption reads, “The first truckload of your thoughts and prayers has just arrived.” The expressions of “thoughts and prayers” from political leaders seem cruelly hollow if they are paired with legislative indifference. It is a joke when our collective reaction to mass murder, terror or tragedy is merely to repeat the same platitude over and over again. People are not making jokes about prayer, they are making a joke of the phrase, because all too soon it begins to feel so empty, and even dismissive. But while pointing out the meaninglessness of this worn out, trite cliché, let’s not throw the baby out with the bathwater. Religious thinkers and spiritual leaders
have sought to reclaim the phrase, seeing how rapidly its meaning has diminished and subsequently been ridiculed every time it is trotted out after tragedies and gun violence. After one high profile shooting, the Dalai Lama tweeted, “Although I am a Buddhist monk, I am skeptical that prayers alone will achieve world peace. We need instead to be enthusiastic and self-confident in taking action.” And Pope Francis has regularly called on followers to intertwine their prayer and their works. “Prayer that doesn’t lead to concrete action toward our brothers is a fruitless and incomplete prayer. Prayer and action must always be profoundly united.” A dear friend wrote to me after my son’s death earlier this year, in which he said that I was “in his prayers.” But he didn’t stop there. I was in his prayers, he said, “… that I would find strength for the days ahead, and comfort in this sad situation.” That meant a lot to me because he was not just expressing some ethereal generality. It was specific, and
I appreciated knowing what he was thinking and praying. Grieving people very quickly get sick of words that are not accompanied by actions. The “Thoughts and Prayers Strategy” isn’t working on a national or international level, nor is it effective in the lives of individuals touched by tragedy and grief. Because it is based on a delusion! But let’s be clear. The delusion is not that prayers are ineffective or that kind thoughts are unnecessary. Rather the misconception is that by offering these sentiments alone, that we are “doing enough”. I think I can safely say that grieving people want and need more than words. We need to do something that will somehow help alleviate the situation, whether that is by political action on a national level, or by ongoing acts of kindness and support on an individual level. Think about it. Pray about it. But don’t stop there. Ask what you can do to make a difference.
FuneralTimes | 73
Wilcox Vauxhall Insignia Hearse for Archibald Macrae Funeral Directors
W W A
Alasdair Macrae standing alongside his pre-owned Vauxhall Insignia Hearse purchased from Wilcox Limousines Ltd.
lasdair is the 4th generation of the independent business serving the families of Stornoway. The hearse comes with a high specification including climate control, Bluetooth, DAB
stereo, alloy wheels, heated seats and leather interior. Wilcox Limousines Ltd. would like to thank Alasdair for his continued business and wish him every success with his new hearse.
Wilcox’ Ford Galaxy Hearsette for Mairi Russell Funeral Services M
airi commenced the business in 2005. In 2011, she acquired D J MacLennan & Son, Muir of Ord, and Mackay and Macaskill of Dornoch. As the business has grown, so have the number of funeral directors working for Mairi. They are now able to look after the families throughout RossShire, Muir of Ord, Beauly, A pre-owned Ford Galaxy Hearsette Kiltarlity, the Highlands, and delivered to Mairi Russell Funeral Services. beyond. Mairi was delighted to receive the pre-owned Galaxy, which forms part of her ongoing investment in removal vehicles for the business. It came with a high specification including satellite navigation, heated seats, leather interior, automatic gearbox, Bluetooth, and climate control. Wilcox Limousines Ltd. would like to thank Mairi for her continued custom and wish her every success with the new removal vehicle.
74 | FuneralTimes
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Coleman Milne Deliveries I
ndependent family business S & J Maddocks are now the proud owners of a brand new Coleman Milne Mercedes fleet. The classic-styled hearse and accompanying limousine are the ultimate in refinement, style and technical excellence. Complete with 2-bearer deck, integral coverboards and wreath rails, S & J Maddocks also selected the optional glass roof for the hearse – offering a touch of the contemporary to an otherwise traditional ceremonial vehicle. With their varied fleet already including several examples of Coleman Milne engineering, Maddocks knew where to go when the time came to upgrade the fleet. Business manager Adam Burrows was impressed with the vehicles on delivery, commenting: “It was a great pleasure to take delivery of
Adam Burrows taking delivery of the new Hearse and Limousine
our new Hearse and Limousine, maintaining high standards is important to all of the team at S. & J. Maddocks. With the new vehicles this now enables us to carry that on in our fleet department and continue offering personal funeral services to the families of Andover and their loved ones.”
Oldest family funeral directors in Perth return to Coleman Milne James McEwan & Son Funeral Directors in Perth are widely recognised as the oldest family run funeral directors in the area. Established in 1943 they are now in their third generation and are currently managed by brothers Billy, Andrew and Jamie. McEwan’s have been relying on Coleman Milne for almost as long as the residents of Perth have been relying on them. With a focus on traditional sensitivity and compassion, their longevity is testament to the excellent care they provide. Billy said: “Our customers have come to expect a certain standard from us, that goes for our premises, and vehicles too. That’s why we invest in a quality we can trust with Coleman Milne.” The spacious E213 Limousine is based on the Mercedes E Class and style and comfort has been at the forefront of the design process. Heated windows and heated seats are a standard feature as are the 17” alloy wheels. This Limousine joins an existing fleet of three other Coleman Milne Vehicles. 76 | FuneralTimes
All-new Coleman Milne fleet for Turner & Son I
ndependent funeral directors Turner & Son are now the proud owners of a brand new Mercedes hearse and limousine. This new fleet, based on the Mercedes E-Class, marks the first order that the business has placed with Coleman Milne. Luxury and innovation feature as standard with this range of striking ceremonial vehicles thanks to their unparalleled specification. With a wide range of options and accessories available, the E-Class range can be exclusively tailored to the customer’s requirements. In addition to the 2-bearer deck, integral coverboards and bespoke illuminated signage of the hearse, Turner & Son also opted for a 5mm silver coachline on both vehicles. This subtle addition highlights the sleek lines of the vehicle and provides a unique touch to truly make the vehicle stand out. Founded in 1887, the business is now in the capable hands of Mark Turner and continues to serve the communities of March and the surrounding areas within Cambridgeshire. Thanks to their wealth of historic experience, they are able to expertly cater to the needs of each family they encounter and deliver a unique final tribute – from floral arrangements and stationery to funeral plans and vehicles and everything in between, the business demonstrates true compassion and care throughout their service offerings When asked for comment, Mark Turner had this to say: “The purchase of our new vehicles complements the redevelopment of our premises to include new Garages, Workshop, Florist Shop and a Memorial showroom enabling the business to grow in the future. “We would like to thank Stacey Moore
The new fleet for Turner & Son was handed over by CM Area Sales Manager for the South, Stacey Moore and the staff at Coleman Milne for their assistance and making the selection and purchase of our vehicles so easy and accommodating all our requirements.”
FuneralTimes | 77
New delivery from Fearghas Quinn R. Gibney of Gibneys of Oldcastle Funeral Directors, collects his E-Class new hearse from Fearghas Seamus Cross, Cross Funeral Home Limerick, collects his new limousine, supplied Quinn Hearse and&Limousines. by Quinn Hearse Limousine
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