The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland
FEARGHAS QUINN HEARSE & LIMOUSINES
2018 Vol.18 No.2
Tel: 028 2582 2525 f fearghas@fearghasquinn.com www.fearghasquinn.com
The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland
Fond farewell for Frank....................................................5
Graham Lymn stands in at NAFD.................................. 30
Contents
Clive Anderson, an Irishman abroad.............................. 66
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 fond farewell for Frank................................................ 5 Prepare for new General Data Protection Regulation...... 6 IAFD News.................................................................... 10 PEAI News..................................................................... 20 When an Irish Funeral Director beat Tiger Woods........ 24 NAFD News................................................................... 28 NAFD appoint Graham Lymn as interim CEO.............. 30 Ben Whitworth tells us how The family knows best: Prepare for the unexpected...... 42 Bare flesh, typos and undertakers brains by Mattie Lennon .......................................................... 49 SAIF News..................................................................... 54 Padraic Cawley knows that Getting it right for the family is what counts................. 57 BIE News....................................................................... 60 Jennifer Muldowney meets Clive Anderson in New York........................................................................ 66 Lost in translation? by Mary Elizabeth Dillon .............. 68 Dr Bill Webster on Success or Significance................... 72 Classifieds...................................................................... 76
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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A fond farewell... A
very pleasant presentation took place recently to mark the retirement of the very popular manager of The Island Crematorium, Frank Murphy. Frank has dedicated his life to the funeral business, and has been manager of The Island Crematorium in Ringaskiddy, Cork for the last 11 years. Frank was there from day one and put his full commitment into the Crematorium. He educated the people of the area all about cremation, was on every radio show and newspaper giving interviews, and invited everybody to come and visit the facility, where he gave tours.
He was very dedicated to his work and brought the crematorium to what it is today - a world class facility. Frank is a true perfectionist in every way; always dressed to perfection, always friendly and accommodating to Funeral Directors and helpful and sympathetic to all the families who used the Island Crematorium. As a small token of appreciation and as a surprise farewell gesture, a presentation was made to Frank on behalf of the Funeral Directors just to say ‘Thanks’, for everything down through the years. May we wish Frank and his wife Kay all the best with his retirement
The Island Crematorium in Ringaskiddy, Cork FuneralTimes | 5
Data protection law is changing – how will the new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) affect your business? The GDPR, which comes into force on 25 May 2018, is expected to have a big impact on UK businesses, large and small. With not long until the deadline, it’s important to get to grips with the new regulation and what’s required of you in order to comply.
S
uperseding the current Data Protection Act, the new GDPR aims to empower consumers by giving them greater rights regarding their personal data and how it is used by businesses. This includes everything from customer contact details and records of previous business dealings, to human resource records of current employees, and even CVs of past job applicants. While the GDPR does not apply to deceased persons, it is likely that most funeral directing firms will need to make some changes to the way they conduct business in order to comply with the new rules. For example, under the GDPR, customers will have the ‘right to erasure’, which means that they can insist that a company holding their personal data removes it immediately and permanently. At present, individuals have little control over what happens to their data once it has been handed over and, in some cases, shared with third parties such as celebrants. Companies will need to identify the lawful basis for processing data and only hold it for limited purposes and for as long as is necessary. It must be stored and processed securely. Data retention policies may need to be updated and firms must be able to edit and delete data if required, unless there is a lawful and valid reason not to. In the funeral industry especially, the GDPR could have a tremendous impact on the way funeral directors operate. Firms will need to document their processes to show how data is collected, used, stored 6 | FuneralTimes
and deleted within their business, update their privacy policy, and include a data protection notice wherever they collect data so families are aware of what happens to it. They will need to collect consent to use the data of living individuals for marketing purposes, for example to invite families to bereavement or memorial events, and ensure they collect consent to hold Special Category Data, for example on pre-payment funeral plans. As well as collecting consent, firms must be able to evidence when consent was given and by whom, and firms must be able to withdraw consent if requested. Emma Simpson, Marketing Manager from Ecclesiastical Planning Services and Perfect Choice Funeral Plans, says “We are working hard to update our various policies and literature to ensure that funeral directors that are data processors for our funeral plans have GDPR compliant materials in time for launch. We are also working with NAFD, SAIF and Golden Charter to support the production of a GDPR FAQ for funeral directors.” Businesses that fail to adhere to the new regulation could face fines of up to €20,000,000, or 4% of the company’s annual turnover from the preceding year – whichever is greater. For more information, visit the Information Commissioner’s Office website at www.ico.org.uk.
Are you ready for GDPR? General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) affects your business and time is ticking until the deadline for enforcement.
The new law marks a wide-reaching and significant shift in the way that businesses must protect customer data. It affects how you collect, store, use and destroy customer data as well as your data policies. We are offering all funeral directors a free guide to GDPR to help ensure you are up-to-speed with the new requirements.
For your
FREE GUIDE call us on
0800 633 5626 Or email us at info@epsfunerals.com and add ‘GDPR’ to the subject line.
Ecclesiastical Planning Services Limited Reg. No. 2644860 which is registered in England at Beaufort House, Brunswick Road, Gloucester GL1 1JZ.
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IAFD News
Regional Meeting Report Four Seasons Hotel, Monaghan Town - Thursday 22nd March 2018 -
Regional Training Workshop A Regional Training Workshop on Safety & Health at Work was held in advance of the Regional Meeting, facilitated by Joseph Clare, FPPI. (IAFD Health & Safety Consultants). While the attendance was less than expected those present reported that the content was excellent and indicated the workshop was very beneficial.
Regional Meeting
M
ary Cunniffe welcomed all in attendance to her first Regional Meeting as President of the IAFD. She advised she had chosen Monaghan as the venue because she felt that perhaps the IAFD could help the members in the local area. Mary introduced her colleagues on the Board to the meeting, outlining the positions they held. The Officers reports were presented by the Hon. Treasurer, Martin Thompson and the Chairs of the Communications, Education and Members & Excellence Committees. Most notably, Robert Fanagan (MEC Chair) announced that the Excellence Programme visits will commence throughout the country in the coming months. Mary thanked all the Committee Chairs for their Reports and hoped they provided an insight into the activities of the Board. She reminded everyone that this is a voluntary organisation, in which people give their time on behalf of the members. She commented that the Board too have their day jobs and the strains and demands of juggling work and family life, but they are all committed to giving as much time as possible on your
10 | FuneralTimes
behalf to the IAFD. Mary added that if anyone present would like to join one of the Committees as a Non-Board member in future she would be delighted to hear from them. She reminded attendees that members of the IAFD are never on their own, there is a network of connections across the country which can be called upon to provide assistance with any aspect of funeral arrangements. Talking to like-minded people who had similar experience can be of great benefit The meeting was then opened to the floor when local issues were discussed. Following the open discussion, Susan Clerkin, Thompson Insurance, held a round table discussion on a number of insurance options available to the membership which included Professional Indemnity Insurance, Business Package Insurance, Motor Insurance and Life Insurance. Susan reminded all present that should they wish to retain the services of their own local broker, Thompsons are happy to offer quotes subject to agency.
IAFD News Excellence Programme Visits - 2018 Since the inception of the Excellence Programme which was created a number of years ago to improve standards and communication, all members have been visited by members of the Board. Version 2 of the Programme commenced last year when almost thirty IAFD members across the country were visited. That proved to be a very beneficial initiative which
provided the Board with opportunities to engage with members, offer support and assistance, and address minor issues. The Excellence Programme will continue in 2018 when it is planned to visit approximately fifty members. A random list of members to be visited has been produced and the Board plans to commence the visits at the end of March.
Board Appointments The Board wishes to announce that at its January meeting the following Officers were appointed: • Hon. Secretary: Dara Gillespie - Finlays Funeral Service, Ardee, Co. Louth. • Hon. Treasurer: Martin Thompson - Thompson Funeral Directors, Athy, Co. Kildare. • Education Committee Chairperson: Donal Forde, Forde & Sons Funeral Home, Cork. We wish them every success in their new roles. We also would like to express our appreciation to the following outgoing Officers, who have completed their terms, for their efforts over the years: • Hon. Secretary: Edwina Fitzgerald - Fitzgeralds, Co. Dublin • Hon. Treasurer: Dermot McCarthy, Co. Cork • Education Committee Chairperson: Michael Crowley, Co. Cork.
Donal Forde
Dara Gillespie
Martin Thompson FuneralTimes | 11
IAFD News
Education The new IAFD Education Programme, “Funeral Directing Certificate Award” is continuing and candidates have just recently undertaken a practical workshop in “Presentation of the Deceased” and “Health & Safety in the Funeral Home". Over twenty candidates will complete the course in May. We are now seeking expressions of interest for the 2018/2019 course. Next year the course will be limited to a maximum of twenty candidates so booking will be taken on a “first come - first served” basis. We
would like to remind readers that this course and the previous one benefitted substantially by the generous sponsorship provided by Glasnevin Trust. We wish to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to Glasnevin Trust for their continued support.
IAFD Members and Storm Emma W
e would like to compliment our members on the professional manner in which they dealt with the recent Storm “Emma”. It is our understanding that members continued to provide funeral service where possible and communicated with families, members of the public, mortuaries, cemeteries etc. to ensure that staff and members of the general public remained safe during this challenging period. IAFD PRO, Colm Kieran, conducted an interview with the Irish Times during the storm period to describe how funerals would be handled in such conditions.
Why Join the IAFD? For just a little more than €1cent a day you get: • Professional Indemnity Insurance
• Code of Practice
• Membership of professional organisation recognised by the general public
• Access to IAFD Education Programme
• Unique all island network of funeral directors • Representation of members with Government, Local Authorities and Media • Funeral Directors led organisation for promoting and developing standards of funeral service
• Excellence Programme • Board of Funeral professionals available to assist Members • Dispute Resolution and Mediation • Legal Advisory Service • Links to other trade Associations
Applications for membership of IAFD: Please visit www.iafd.ie and download an Application Form. 12 | FuneralTimes
IAFD News Mary Cunniffe (President) Massey Bros Funeral Home Templeogue Village Dublin 6W Mobile: 085-8010742 Ph: 01-4907601 Email: mary.cunniffe@hotmail.com Edwina Fitzgerald (First Vice President) Fitzgeralds Funeral Directors Channel Road Rush Co. Dublin Ph: 0873512949 Email: edwinafitzgerald78@gmail.com John Foley (Immediate Past President) Jennings Funeral Directors 81 Amien Street Dublin 1 Ph: 01-8555511 Dara Gillespie (Hon. Secretary) Finlays Funeral Service Tierney Street Ardee Co. Louth Mobile: 086 7923472 Email: dara.gillespie@finlaygrp.com Martin Thompson (Hon. Treasurer) Thompson Funeral Directors Chapel Hill Mount Hawkins Athy Co. Kildare Ph: 059-8632714 Email: thompsonfuneraldirectors@gmail.com
Donal Forde (Chair - Education Committee) Forde & Sons Funeral Home South Gate Bridge Cork Co Cork Ph: 021-4318222 Email: fordes@indigo.ie Robert Fanagan (Chair - Membership & Excellence Committee) Fanagans 54, Aungier Street Dublin 2 Ph: 01-4754101 Email: robert@fanagans.ie Colm Kieran (P.R.O & Chair Communications Committee) Kieran Bros. Funeral Directors Kingscourt, Co. Cavan Mobile: 087-6218740 Ph: 042-9667309 Email: colmkieran@gmail.com Dermot McCarthy McCarthy’s Funeral Home Gurrane, Banteer, Cork. Ph: 029-56044 Email: dermot@mccarthyfuneraldirectors. com Tom Lawless Lawless Funeral Directors Mucklagh, Tullamore Co. Offaly Ph: 057-9322622 Email: info@tullamorefunerals.ie
New members IAFD wishes to welcome the following new members: NEW ASSOCIATE MEMBERS: • Celebrant Funerals by Lorraine McCarthy • Lytesoft - Obituary Funeral Software FuneralTimes | 13
IAFD News DIARY DATES FOR 2018 19th July 2018 Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone • Regional Training Workshop @ 2.30pm & Regional Meeting @ 5.30pm 20th September 2018 Firgrove Hotel, Mitchelstown • Regional Training Workshop @ 2.30pm & Regional meeting @ 5.30pm 24th November 2018 AGM & Dinner Dance - Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone
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Designed with Funeral Directors in mind... Obit is a cloud-based Funeral Management Package. Designed in close consultation with Funeral Directors (Griffins Funerals since 1860) for Funeral Directors.
O
bit went into use early in 2016 (April) with the launch customer and was released to the Irish market late the same year. It has been updated with new functions and features on a quarterly basis since then and is currently available in Release 1.10.2 Features: n Any Device / Any OS / Anytime - being cloud-based, the User may access their data anytime using Desktop, Laptop, Tablet or Smartphone. n No Restrictions on the number of Users or Connected Devices. n A large number of approaches to covering the Funeral Account are covered with a wide selection of formats for Quotations, Invoices and receipts whether printing to Headed Notepaper or Incorporating logos and trademarks, giving the Funeral Director consistent and professional documents matched to their preference. n A large number of report scripts are available to produce Death Notices, Altar Announcements and other reports. The User is provided with a powerful editor to allow the creation of their own documents. n Obit supports web publication of Death Announcements on the User’s website at the touch of a button. n Obit allows the Funeral Director to differentiate between Public Information regarding event times and Internal (to the Funeral Director) Times needed to optimally manage Rooms, Staff and Vehicles. n Obit has extensive Reporting options that 16 | FuneralTimes
allow the Funeral Director follow up on outstanding accounts as well as perform basic Marketing analysis. n Obit allows the User to create Templates that can reduce the average time needed to record a funeral to a matter of minutes. n Obit supports related activities such as Trade Embalming, Vehicle or Room Hire, Flowers, Coroner Pickup and many others at no additional charge. n Obit offers the Funeral Director a range of Displays to optimise Staff, Rooms and Vehicles. Changes to assignmentschedules can be communicated to staff via email at the touch of a button. n Small-screen friendly design. Obit supports the user accessing from smallerscreen devices with a combination of clever menu structure and a side-menu “Hide” button. n Obit has a built-in checklist to help the User instantly see where data elements are missing. n Extensive online help videos and articles. The User has direct access to the Development Team and may suggest improvements or report problems. n Financial data can be easily exported to Accounting packages. Advantages: n Intuitive and Easy-to-Use. n Always on - even updates can be handled without closing the system. n The User is always connected to the latest Release - no update overhead for the User. n SSL Encryption, Redundancy and Automatic Daily Back-Up as standard.
Benefits: n Improved communication with all staff Everyone can see what’s happening in real time, reducing communication overhead and improving coordination. n Record Once - Use Many times. Now you only need to record your data once and then use the features and functions in Obit to produce reports and documents covering the entire process.
n Savings of 2 hours admin work (or more) per funeral n Reduced error potential by using templates and built-in Checklist n Arrange funerals on the go using your choice of PC, Mac, Tablet or Smartphone. For more info, see www.obit.ie or www. lytesoft.com. Email richard@lytesoft.com or sales@obit.ie or simply call Richard on +353 (0)86 771 6099
Biographies John-Mark Griffin works at Griffin Funeral Directors, a company with over 150 years experience in that business. He was the primary design consultant in the development of Obit and Griffins, recognised as innovators in their field, were launch customers, starting to use Obit in April, 2016.
Mark Lynch has more than 10 years experience of bringing application software to mobile devices and is proficient in the most up-todate “Cloud-Computing� world. He graduated from UL in 1997 with an Honours degree in Computer Systems, specialising in Artificial Intelligence (AI).-
Richard Lynch has over 40 years experience of bringing computer systems into the workplace in a wide variety of companies and cultures.
FuneralTimes | 17
R. Gibney of Gibneys of Oldcastle Funeral Directors, collects his new hearse from Fearghas New deck option available from Fearghas Quinn Quinn Hearse and Limousines.
Pictured is the new deck option available on Fearghas Quinn Hearse & Limousine vehicles
Arrange your funerals anywhere, anytime, using Obit, a new cloudbased software solution for Funeral Directors. Use any device: PC, Mac, Tablet or Smartphone. Publish announcements on your own website at the touch of a button. SAVE UP TO 2 HOURS ADMIN PER FUNERAL Improve coordination and communication. Staff can see what’s happening in real time, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Call Richard on +353 86 771 6099 or visit our website.
18 | FuneralTimes
www.professionalembalmers.ie
Who’s who at the PEAI in 2018 Martina Burns MPEAI, MEAE, MDCA Chairperson An embalmer and funeral director based at McGowan’s funeral home, Ballina, Co.Mayo, Martina Burns has served the PEAI since 2009. She has admirably fulfilled the roles of Secretary and Vice-Chairperson, and now takes the position of Chairperson. Additional to her role in McGowan’s funeral home, Martina is the registrar of the Death Care Academy and a practical embalming tutor. In her position as Chairperson, Martina strives to promote the benefits of embalming in funeral services at a national level and to support and nurture all embalmers in Ireland. Pauline Lynch MPEAI, MEAE Vice-Chairperson Pauline Lynch is a trade embalmer serving counties Kildare, Meath and Offaly. After witnessing the benefits modern embalming can bring to the funeral rite, Pauline was inspired to study embalming. She returned to education as a mature student and spent three years studying with the Death Care Academy, achieving her qualification in 2014. Pauline is actively involved in supporting the continued growth of the PEAI.
Josephine Horgan MPEAI, MEAE Secretary Josephine Horgan is an in-house embalmer based at Jerh O’Connor Funeral Home, Coburg Street, Cork City. Better known as Jo, she studied with the Death Care Academy and trained in both McGowan’s Funeral Home, Co.Mayo, and Sullivans Funeral Home, Cork City. Now in her second year working at one of Cork’s most active establishments, Jo is passionate about embalming and is a keen contributor within the organisation.
Grainne Teefy MPEAI, RDN Vice-Secretary Grainne Teefy is a trade embalmer serving the North-East region of Ireland. With a background in Medicine and Healthcare, Grainne embarked on her embalming career in 2014, training in both the UK and Ireland. Padraig O’Reilly MPEAI, MEAE Treasurer Padraig O’Reilly is now entering his second term as treasurer for the PEAI. He has worked in funeral services since the 1970’s. Previously employed by the Health Service Executive as Supports Services Manager, his job roles included mortuary services and family bereavement. While in this position he was part of a working group on Death Dying and Bereavement, receiving an award from the Irish Hospice Foundation for the improvement of standards for the dying. Patrick Keller MPEAI, MBIE, MEAE, IAFD Public Relations Officer Patrick Keller is a funeral director, embalmer and owner of Keller’s Funeral Directors, Nenagh, Co.Tipperary. He is a founding member of the PEAI and has a lifetime of experience in funeral services. In his position as PRO, Patrick represents the PEAI in Ireland and abroad.
www.professionalembalmers.ie
Grey’s add 181 private ambulance to their fleet W
e would like to thank Eamonn for the continued custom on this most recent conversion of a private ambulance. As is always of utmost importance in Byrne Coachbuilders, we ensure to tailor our conversions to the specific needs of each of our clients. Our objective is to provide the highest quality vehicles to the funeral trade in Ireland and is something we believe in strongly. From all at Byrne Coachbuilders, we would like to wish all of the team at Grey’s Funeral Homes continued success as they progress forward in providing the highest level of service to their surrounding community.
A
fter researching the market Tom and his team felt that the Deacon offered the superior looks, comfort and practicality that could match the needs and expectations of their business. With the level of detail in the finish of the Deacon coupled with the performance of its road handling, it was a simple decision for Tom in the end. From all at Byrne Coachbuilders we would like to wish Tom and his team the very best with his new Deacon. 22 | FuneralTimes
Keegan’s upgrade to Deacon Hearse
F
rom meeting Matthew in Portlaoise on a gloomy Thursday afternoon just before the big snow had arrived, it was clear that he knew that the Deacon was the right fit for his business. From taking the car for a test drive we observed how it could reverse into the sloped hill of his funeral home with ease. Not only that but we tested the car's manoeuvrability through a small roundabout which leads immediately into the town centre church with narrow pillars. Tasks which the Hearse managed without having to think about them and something that is synonymous with the Deacon is that it drives and handles so well in all scenarios making it the perfect fit for all levels of experience. We would like to extend a thanks to Matthew and his team for their custom on the purchase of this Deacon and wish them every success in the future as they progress their business forward.
The Irish funeral director who defeated Tiger Woods W
ith the hype surrounding Tiger Woods before the recent Masters at Agusta, I read a fascinating piece by Eamonn Doggett of the Irish Mirror about one of our leading funeral directors. 1995 saw a 19 year old Tiger Woods arrive as the star player at the Walker Cup, held at Royal Porthcawl in Wales, having already at this stage made the cut in the Masters, defended his U.S. Amateur title and caused a stir throughout the world of golf. The American team had tasted defeat just once in 11 previous contests of the amateur version of the Ryder Cup. Opposing Woods was a 30 year-old Irishman who spent his days working in his family’s funeral business in Dublin – Fanagans. Jody Fanagan admits himself that although the contest may have seemed unfair to those on the outside, certain
elements fell in the favour of himself and his playing partner, Padraig Harrington. Having honed his skills around California, Tiger was not best accustomed to wet and blustery weather and had never experienced links golf. Jody and Padraig combined to bear the future 14-time major winner and partner John Harris 2 & 1 in the foursomes on day two as GB & Ireland secured a 14-10 victory outright. Even having watched his playing partner go on to secure three major titles of his own, the thought of turning professional never crossed Jody’s mind, having came late to the sport at the age of 23 after spending his early years playing rugby. With the following years transforming Tiger into arguably the most dominant golfer the world has known, the legend of Jody’s victory was immortalized and is frequently brought up.
H E N R Y PATO N + C o . L t d
Apprentices the solution to the RoI’s skills gap
M
ore than four out of every five (82%) Republic of Ireland businesses believe that apprentices are the solution to addressing the RoI’s skills gap, according to research from Close Brothers (Braemar Finance’s parent company). “Skills shortages have made headline news recently and it’s clearly an issue that SMEs feel very strongly about,” said Aileen Boyle, Managing Director, Braemar Finance. “Many businesses are very concerned about where their next cohort of skilled workers is going to come from and the answer, they feel, is more apprenticeships. “Our research tells us that 18% of small to medium sized businesses have their own apprentice scheme while 66% feel it’s not right for their business; the remaining 16% cite lack of affordability as the reason why they don’t have one of their own. “Clearly, not every business has a need for an apprentice; however, the fact that for many it’s simply too expensive shows that more needs to be done.” University alternative RoI SMEs firmly believe that apprenticeships are a viable substitute to university, with 75% of business owners agreeing with the statement ‘apprenticeships are a valuable alternative to university’. “The number of school leavers choosing apprenticeships over university has risen by over 20% since 2010,” said Aileen. “For the industries we serve, this is clearly a positive development and for many, one of the main attractions of apprenticeships is the opportunity to earn while they learn and because the schemes are linked to businesses, in many cases it means they are able to walk into a full-time job after they have finished. “But apprenticeships don’t necessarily close the door on university – there’s no reason why someone can’t do both because higher-level apprenticeships can lead to a foundation degree, meaning going to 26 | FuneralTimes
university at a later stage needn’t be off the cards.” Assistance Nationally, 53% of business owners answered ‘yes’ to the question ‘if assistance was available either from either the government or the private sector, would you participate in an apprenticeship scheme?’. “This compares favourably when looking at the UK results, and is higher than the consolidated figure of 49%” said Aileen. ‘If assistance was available either from the government or the private sector, would you participate in an apprenticeship scheme?’
Yes No
Northern Ireland
61% 39%
North East England
60% 40%
Greater London
58% 42%
Wales
53% 47%
Republic of Ireland
53% 48%
South East England
52% 48%
South West England
51% 49%
Yorkshire/Humberside 49% 52% North West England
46% 54%
West Midlands
44% 56%
Scotland
43% 57%
East Anglia
42% 59%
East Midlands
32% 68%
Contact Braemar Finance to find out more: Republic or Ireland: 086 772 7552 / Email info@braemarfinance.ie Northern Ireland: 01563 852100 / Email info@braemarfinance.co.uk
Donโ t let cost be a barrier. :LJ[VY ZWLJPHSPZ[ )YHLTHY -PUHUJL Vั LY funding for items such as: โ ข Equipment โ ข Business loans ย 0; 6ั JL ZVS\[PVUZ โ ข Corporation tax and VAT loans โ ข Business vehicles โ ข Equity release
TO FIND OUT MORE CALL: Joe Biesty - Republic of Ireland:
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Gail Cormack - Northern Ireland
07919 598577 JFRUPDFN#EUDHPDUรฐ QDQFH FR XN
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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 National Funeral Exhibition 2019 Have you secured your stand space at NFE yet?
T
he National Funeral Exhibition 2019 (NFE) is still 14 months away, yet prime spots on the floorplan have already been secured by high profile exhibitors such as Wilcox, Lyn Oakes, JC Atkinson and many others. More than 100 major exhibitors have already agreed space at the show, with a host of enquiries every day adding to that number. The show is expected to top the 200 exhibitors attracted to the 2017 event. There are ‘early bird’ discounts available for firms that secure their space in 2018, and a range of other special offers available too so, if you’re thinking of bringing your business to NFE 2019, contact the show team as soon as possible to make sure you get the space you want. The show will once again will take place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, from Friday 7 – Sunday 9 June 2019, and remains one of the most important events on the global funeral exhibition calendar. The show team is taking to the road throughout 2018 and 2019 to showcase NFE 2019. The campaign started at Tanexpo in Bologna, Italy and
moves next to BEFA in Dusseldorf, Germany and then to the NFDA convention in the United States, as well as promoting the show across the UK and Ireland and in funeral sector publications across Europe. As well as attracting thousands of funeral professionals from across the UK, in 2017 the show attracted international visitors from 19 different nations and a range of international firms keen to build business links with the UK funeral profession. PostBrexit, which is scheduled to take place just three months earlier in March 2019, the National Funeral Exhibition will represent a valuable early opportunity for ‘UK plc’ to showcase an independent presence in the global marketplace, and the NAFD has already been in touch with the Department for International Trade to discuss export development and promotional opportunities for UK-based exhibitors. ‘Early bird’ exhibitor discounts There are some key discounts available to early bird exhibitors:1. Exhibitors signing up before the end of April 2018 will receive a 10% discount on space only. 2. Exhibitors signing up before the end of September 2018 will receive a 5% discount on space only. For further information on exhibiting at NFE 2019, visit: www. nationalfuneralexhibition.co.uk to check out the floor plan and costings and then contact show manager Kirsti Clifford on 0121 711 1343 ext. 1009, or by email tokirsti@nafd.org.uk to discuss your needs. FuneralTimes | 29
Meet the ‘Youngertakers’ – the future of the funeral profession T
he NAFD worked with BBC Newsbeat journalist Ben Mundy, over several months, to create a documentary about young people entering the funeral profession and the realities of their job, caring for people that have died and their families. The documentary follows the work of apprentices Ben and Ellie, both 17, who work for AW Lymn – the Family Funeral Service in Nottingham; Sam, 20, who works for Homeland International, part of CPJ Field in Sussex; and Luke, who has recently opened his own funeral business in Sheerness, Kent, at the age of 25. The documentary looks at how they got into the profession, the kind of work they do, and their aspirations for the future. It also shows one of Ellie’s colleagues receiving the news that she has successfully achieved the NAFD’s Diploma in Funeral Directing. Ellie told the BBC: “It’s what I want to do for the rest of my life. I don’t think I’ll ever
find another job that you can show your true self in. I am a caring and empathetic person and I can use these qualities to help people. I think it is such a rewarding job and when somebody is so thankful for all you’ve done for them, I don’t think you get that feeling anywhere else.” You can watch the programme on BBC iPlayer.
NAFD appoints Graham Lymn as interim CEO The NAFD has appointed Graham Lymn as interim Chief Executive Officer. Graham is a former NAFD National President, with six years’ experience serving on the Association’s Executive Committee and, prior to that, he served as President of the Funeral Standards Council as well as President of the Co-operative Funeral Service Managers’ Association. Graham, who started in his role in April, is expected to lead the Association for six to nine months. Part of the role will be assisting the Officer team with recruitment of a permanent incumbent and providing an 30 | FuneralTimes
extensive handover, enabling the new recruit to quickly understand the unique challenges of the funeral profession. NAFD President Alison Crake said: “Graham is a hugely respected member of the profession and a much valued colleague. “His previous experience, not only as an elected Officer of the Association but of the wider funeral sector, together with his understanding of the issues and opportunities facing the funeral profession, makes him a natural appointment to lead the NAFD during this transition period.”
NAFD discusses Social Fund concerns with new Minister On 6 March, the NAFD met Kit Malthouse MP, the new Department for Work and Pensions Minister with responsibility for Social Fund Funeral Payments. The NAFD was represented by NAFD Past President Nigel Lymn Rose, who took the opportunity to raise four key areas of concern on the Social Fund:-
Eligibility Criteria: • The Minister was asked the question: how can family members be equally liable but not equally eligible? Nigel set out examples of different family circumstances and how the current criteria were unfair. He also outlined how claimants only received a decision after the funeral had taken place and how getting an earlier decision would assist in deciding arrangements/reducing debt. The Minister recognised the different family circumstances outlined by the NAFD and the need for greater clarity. Capped element: • The Minister was provided with a history to the capped element of the Social Fund Funeral Payment and how the £700 cap was too low. Nigel outlined a range of expenses that made up a funeral to
highlight the point. Recent consultation: • Nigel welcomed the recent consultation on reforms to the Funeral Expenses Payment, but outlined that there were other important changes that the NAFD had championed over the years. Statutory Instrument: • Nigel outlined the work of the NAFD to improve the wording of the Statutory Instrument (SI) and shared a draft of the NAFD’s proposed SI with the Minister. Overall, the Minister said he was keen to work with the NAFD. He offered to review the draft Statutory Instrument developed by the Association and examine how Social Fund decision making could be improved. FuneralTimes | 31
Stunning new granite going down a storm Managing Director Bosco Whelan, along with his skilled, dedicated team at Jet Stone Ltd. have been thrilled with the uptake and interest in the latest addition to their expansive product range - Rustenburg Granite. Jet Stone Ltd. boasts over a decades experience tirelessly going the extra mile to cater to the retail trade throughout Ireland and constantly aim to set the standard for wholesale providers of Monumental Headstones and accessories. The company strives, through market research and continued dialogue with their wide network of customers throughout Ireland, as well as further afield, to better its offerings and introduce new, elegant products to the funerary industry. The recent addition of Rustenburg Granite
was another shining example of Jet Stone’s committment to their loyal client base and overall devotion to the wider funeral trade. With a strikingly beautiful black appearance, Rustenburg Granite presents a dark black base with large dark grey grains. Its flexibility in finishes is another useful aspect, including; polished, honed, aged, sawn cut, sandblasted and bushhammered. Whether an old friend or interested customer, the Jet Stone team are always available to help or answer any questions or queries you may have.
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New delivery from Fearghas Quinn R. Gibney of Gibneys of Oldcastle Funeral Directors, collects his new hearse from Fearghas Aidan Walsh, Co. Waterford collects his new 213 E-class Hearse from Fearghas Quinn Quinn & Hearse and Limousines. Hearse Limousines
New delivery from Fearghas Quinn R. Gibney of Gibneys of Oldcastle Directors, collects his new hearse from Fearghas Conan Lavery, Co. Tyrone with hisFuneral new Mondeo from Fearghas Quinn Hearse Quinn Hearse and Limousines. & Limousines 34 | FuneralTimes
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ur remembrance memorial tree allows families to purchase a leaf with their loved one’s name, date of birth and date of death. The leaf will be placed on the branch of the tree and displayed in the remembrance garden at Lakelands Crematorium. Each leaf is engraved with text and secured to the tree. Many people find comfort in creating a memorial to a loved one following a burial or cremation. The cost of the leaf is €130 and at present we have 6 memorial leaves on our tree
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e provide a range of services to suit every family’s needs. Online viewing is becoming very popular and this service option allows mourners to view the ceremony securely online with the use of a protected password. It allows mourners to log onto our web page to view the ceremony live. Some families like to have a permanent record of the funeral service. We can provide a recording on a DVD or memory stick for families who wish to avail of this service. We recently had one family where some of the members were not in a position to come home from Boston to their father’s funeral. The fact that the family members overseas were able to see the service the same day online meant a lot to them and to their mother.
FuneralTimes | 39
• Choice of Castors 7” Braked or 7” un-braked • Available in four models - Four Square Bier, Standard Lattice Bier, Extra Long Standard Lattice Bier or Extra Long Extra High Standard Lattice Bier. • Standard Lattice Trolleys available in 200kg or 320kg capacity Did you know we can repair your existing coffin trolley? Please contact us for more details.
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The family knows best: Prepare for the unexpected By Ben Whitworth, Dip FD, MBIE, MEAE Ben works for Dodge in the UK and represents the company across the country, calling at crematoria and cemeteries, medical examiners’ facilities as well as medical and veterinary anatomy departments. He also works with capital equipment and the designing and building of embalming and autopsy rooms. He is a qualified funeral director and embalmer and holds the CANA certificate for Crematory Operation.
N
ot for the first time, a family had called to make arrangements and had been quite sure of all their requests and needs. We all know that these things can change and frequently do. However, in this case, they were quite certain of everything that they wanted. The funeral was to be relatively straightforward, with a coffin made of pine, the deceased dressed in his own suit, and a service at the crematorium chapel, followed by cremation, and definitely no viewing. In this case, the funeral director collected the deceased, kept him in a cold room, and dressed him in his own clothes. They did not embalm him as the family did not want this. In fact, apart from dressing the deceased, the family did not want him touched in any way, shape, or form. Dressed in his clothes, this particular deceased was left to rest in the cold room, pending the arrival of the coffin from the joinery company. Over a week had passed with the gentleman resting in this way, when I arrived to embalm two other cases. Halfway through my first case, I was asked if I could attend to the gentleman in the cold room, as his family had now requested a viewing. A quick look told me that I was not going to be leaving any time soon and that this was not going to be straightforward. After finishing the other two cases, I turned my attention to the “not to be viewed, now to be viewed” gentleman. Removing his clothing and placing him onto an embalming table I started to make a case assessment. Despite resting in the cold room for over ten days, he showed 42 | FuneralTimes
signs of dehydration and decomposition. He had been left without his dentures and his mouth had not been cleaned or closed so his lips were sunken and dehydrated. His eyeballs and eyelids were dehydrated and sunken as well. Decomposition was advanced and the abdomen was a dark green color, which was spreading up the lower rib cage. There was skin slip around the scrotum and a foul odor. The funeral would be in a couple of weeks’ time and several viewings were anticipated. I started with the gentleman’s clothes and, having removed them, wrapped them up and sent them to be dry cleaned. Next, I treated him with a good application of Dis-Spray. Given the length of time between death and embalming, I did not want to wash the deceased and risk causing more issues with skin slip. Then I used an aneurysm hook to gently lift the eyelids and lips and applied more Dis-Spray. I let this sit for a few minutes before I made a second application, and then I cleaned the eye orbits, as well as the mouth, with cotton. I was then able to set the features. I used eye caps and a good quantity of Kalip Stay Cream on the eyes. I used a round mandibular suture to close the mouth and then secured the false teeth in place. They didn’t fit very well, so using a little Aron Alpha Gel, I glued them into place. Owing to the length of time between death and embalming, the facial tissues were sunken and a natural mouth closure was difficult to achieve. Using a Heavy Compound Injector and Inr-Seel. I reinstated the contours of the
mouth and a more natural appearance was taking shape. The nose had also been altered during the time lapse with a sheet resting on it, so I shaped it with some Inr-Seel, which I injected into each nostril, after treating them with Dis-Spray and swabbing them clean. The use of Inr-Seel is perfect for this type of work, because it will not dry out the tissues like cotton or wool, and it can be shaped as the embalming progresses, to ensure a natural appearance is maintained. With the facial features set, I moved on to treat the genital area. This region showed advanced decomposition as well as skin slip and some leakage. I decided to paint the entire area with Dryene II Gel, which would deodorize and cauterize at the same time, as well as offer some preservation. An adult diaper was placed over the genital area to hold the Dryene II Gel in place and control any leakage during the embalming process. I then moved on to raise vessels for injection and drainage. I decided to start with a single point injection, using the right common carotid artery for injection and the right jugular vein for drainage. These were raised and ligated for placing injection and drainage tubes. I then moved on to mix the required fluid. This type of case presents many different challenges for the embalmer, but many of these can be overcome with the correct choice and mixture of the arterial fluid. A high index is required to overcome the decomposition, but this needs to be tempered with a good humectant quality to help with the dehydration. My arterial chemical of choice was Regal 30. This chemical offered what I can only describe as a hybrid between Introfiant and Plasodpake. With the power of Introfiant but with the subtle cosmetic finish of Plasdopake, Regal 30 has become a firm favourite of many embalmers in the UK since its introduction. I added 48 oz. of Regal 30 to the tank of the embalming machine along with 32 oz. of Proflow, 32 oz. of Rectifiant and 32 oz. of Restorative. Hot water was added to make a total solution of 2.5 gallons. This solution had an overall strength of 4.5%. When dealing with delayed cases where dehydration is a
problem, I often find that a large quantity of an additional humectant chemical is helpful. It not only helps to replenish lost moisture but increases the absorption of arterial fluid by the cells. I have also found that Proflow makes an enormous difference, especially with delayed cases. In this case, despite the length of time between death and embalming, good vein drainage was achieved and staining was cleared from the hands and facial features of the deceased. I set the pressure of the embalming machine to 60/80 psi and used a rate of flow of 500/600 ml per minute. I started with direct injection and changed to pulsation halfway through. Good distribution was achieved from a single point with all tissues receiving sufficient fluid. The arterial tube was reversed so the right side of the head could be embalmed and this was done with 600 ml of fluid, at a pressure of 60/80 psi, and a rate of flow of 200 ml per minute with pulsation. Once the arterial injection was completed, I ligated the artery and vein closed and used a wormian suture to close the incision. Whenever I suture close an incision, I like to make sure there is no risk of leakage. I start by drying the incision with a cauterizing chemical like Basic Dryene or Dryene II. Once cauterized, I apply a suitable quantity of Q-S Powder and then cover this with Inr-Seel. This forms a great barrier and will protect against leakage. This particular technique is particularly effective for remains that will be repatriated or that have edema present. After the incision was closed I continued to prepare the deceased, but all the time delaying the cavity aspiration and treatment. By maintaining the internal vascular pressure after arterial injection, the arterial fluid will continue to diffuse into the tissues and ensure a thorough embalming. Nails were cleaned and scrubbed, the deceased was washed from head to toe, and the hair was washed, dried, and styled. The facial features were adjusted and the diaper removed, so the genital area could be re-treated, before a fresh diaper was applied and a pair of plastic underpants placed over it. Kalon Massage Cream was applied to FuneralTimes | 43
the face and hands of the deceased. Only after all other tasks were completed, did I perform the aspiration. Once the aspiration was completed, I then injected 32 oz. of Dri Cav, distributed evenly between the cavities, with one ounce being directed into the scrotum, by directing the trocar over the pubis symphysis and down. This case was challenging, but a good outcome was achieved and the family was very happy when they visited the deceased. It could have been a different outcome, had the embalming not been successful. The firm that I embalm for only calls me when they have a deceased to embalm. If the family selects a “no viewing” option, then I do not attend to the deceased, so we have reviewed company policies to address the issues that no embalming can create. A deceased not to be embalmed is now brought into the funeral home and washed and disinfected. The facial features are disinfected and swabbed before being set. Massage cream is applied to the face and hands, and where possible 16 oz. of cavity
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fluid are injected into the abdominal cavity without aspiration. I have found that this will delay some decomposition until a funeral can take place and will not adversely affect the deceased if embalming is selected at a later stage. Embalming can still be performed, using extra injection sites if needed. The family knows best and we as funeral professionals are there to deal with their needs and expectations, however, we must be prepared to deal with the consequences of these needs and expectations changing. The care of the deceased is, in my opinion, the foundation stone on which funeral service is built. I would advise everybody to have an active policy for the care of the unembalmed remains to avoid potential problems at a later stage.
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Legacy Expressions is a division of Life Expressions Ltd. All rights reserved. Copyright 2017 44 | FuneralTimes
More raving fans in 2018? L
ife Expressions Ltd are well and truly off and running in the Irish market and are keen to acquire more independent funeral directors wishing to offer their lovely fingerprint keepsakes to the families they care for. Since exhibiting at City West late in 2017, sales in Ireland have increased steadily, with one recent family purchasing 16 items! (As per image shown) 16 items sold in Managing director David Shannon to one Gosling said, “When I started out, family my goal was to create the highest quality and most affordable keepsakes in the market, thus allowing families to buy in bulk. Sales like the recent one in Shannon of 16 pieces, show that my goal is being achieved.” As the firm approaches its first birthday, David couldn’t be happier with how things are progressing. “I was a little hesitant as to how families would receive the product in the UK, but with over 25,000 prints having been submitted from just over 325 funeral director customers, and sales from those Funeral Directors to families now touching close to £300,000, it’s safe to say it was a good decision to move forward with the business on home soil.” Life Expressions Ltd are fingerprint and personalisation specialists, working with authentic text writing of loved ones, and laser etched photos. Some lovely examples of their creations can be seen on their Facebook page;- ‘Life Expressions Ltd UK’ along with numerous 5* funeral director testimonials. David continued “It’s clear from Irish sales that families want this sort of product, and we’d be delighted to supply your home. We only deal with independent directors, we purely wholesale, and work with you on a 50/50 profit share basis. In England and Scotland we supply firms such as T.Cribb & Sons, A.W Lymn and Fosters of Glasgow, all of whom are now offering each and every family the opportunity of a fingerprint scan. Scanning of prints takes just seconds, and families can purchase ANYTIME after the funeral! To see how you can secure more future business for YOUR home by stocking Life Expressions products, call or email David at your leisure on; 0800 3689233 or david@legacyexpressions.co.uk for further information, and a demo of their scanner. FuneralTimes | 45
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BARE FLESH, TYPOS AND UNDERTAKERS BRAINS By Mattie Lennon I have, in the words of Churchill, “a lot to be humble about” but I have one boast. Our family burial ground, in Baltyboys, is situated on the highest, bleakest and coldest site in Ireland. I would pity any unclad female who had to stand there, even on a summer’s day. And what, you may ask, prompted that paragraph? You are probably asking “Has that fellow lost the plot?” (Pun intentional) Read on. When I read in the Global Times that the authorities in China are clamping down on the increasingly popular event of striptease artists at funerals I contacted China’s official Xinhua News Agency and they confirmed that authorities have, indeed, announced a new crackdown. An attendee at a village funeral in Cheng’an County in Hebei Province said mourners of all ages, including children, enjoyed the raunchy performance at a recent send-off. But he said “I felt something wasn’t right. The performance crossed the line. I had heard about hiring strippers to dance at funerals but had never seen it myself. I was shocked when I saw the strippers.” He went on to say that, “the villagers were not surprised by the erotic display at all.” China’s Ministry of Culture have released a statement, which detailed two cases. They say the practice distorted the “cultural value of the entertainment business” and such acts were “uncivilised”. In both cases, in north China’s Hebei
Province and east China’s Jiangsu, strippers were “invited to stage obscene performances,“ it said. The organisers and performers have been punished. The ministry added it will continue to work with the police to stamp out the practice. The crackdown will involve residents being offered a financial reward for tip offs made to a hotline that divulge “funeral misdeeds.” Chinese state media has often condemned the erotic shows as “low culture” and a “toxin for public morality.” However, some experts claim stripper performances at funerals also honour reproduction and fertility. “According to the interpretation of cultural anthropology, the fete is originated from the worship of reproduction,” Kuang Haiyan, a media professor, told Global Times. “Therefore the erotic performance at the funeral is just a cultural atavism.” The above information prompted me to wonder what, if any, legislation governs such a practice on this island. I wrote to the Department of Justice but I didn’t get a reply. I then contacted the office of the Attorney General asking for information on the subject. A communication from his office by Christine O’ Rourke, Advisory Council, informed me, “... this Office is unable to assist with your query.“ So I don’t know where we stand (that is not a double entendre) with regard to the legality of strippers at funerals here.
You have no idea the trouble I go to five times a year to find death and funeral related material for you. On a recent visit to London I went into the British Library. I have always been a frequenter of libraries. (I once lived in a Dublin suburb where it was said that the definition of an intellectual was a person who went into the library when it wasn’t raining.) Where was I? Oh yes. I went into the British Library and perused hundreds
FuneralTimes | 49
of newspapers and documents to find appropriate typos, misspellings and just plain, careless writing. Here are just a few; “HOOPER Wilfred Harry. Loving memories of my dearest husband who passed away on 15th June. It’s a lovely life without you, and sad has been each day.” (Northants Evening Telegraph.) And “OWEN. Phyllis. Six sad years today. Don’t ask me if I miss you. No one knows the pain. It’s lovely here without you dear, life has never been the same. God bless you dear. Loving husband, Frank.” (Bristol
Evening Post.) And from Putney Town Centre Plan we have this one; “55 new homes, including some sheltered homes for the elderly, are being built on this site. Access to the burial ground has been allowed for.” In Romeo and Juliet Shakespeare gave us, “Seal up the mouth of outrage for a while. Till we can clear these ambiguities.” But ambiguity is still alive and well. How about the following from the Shropshire Star “... she has visited the cemetery where her husband was buried on a number of occasions.”
A certain Funeral Director in west Wicklow slags me every time he meets me. And here, dear reader, if you are unfortunate enough not to have been born and reared on this island, I must explain that there is nothing derogatory about slagging; it is an Irish way of insulting a person in such a way that they will enjoy it. Be that as it may, I have been looking around for ages to find a way of getting my own back on this individual. Then, recently, BINGO. I met a Professor
of Neurology on a Cabra bus. I asked him about the typical brain of a Funeral Director and he began to explain it to me in clinical terminology and psycho babble. Then, seeing that I wasn’t too bright, he opened his laptop and drew what he called “An atlas of an undertaker’s brain.” He put it on a memory-stick, handed it to me and gave me permission to publish it in The Funeral Times. And finally, a short eulogy; “His brother was worse.”
50 | FuneralTimes
NFE
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Brought to you by the National Association of Funeral Directors
@funeral_exhibit www.nationalfuneralexhibition.co.uk
Will you be at the largest trade show for the sector?... Everything you need to start, improve or grow your business Friday 7 - Sunday 9 June 2019
Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire
WHERE 7R Č´QG XV The showâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s central location, with easy access to road, rail and air services, will make a day at the NFE 2019 VWUDLJKWIRUZDUG IURP VWDUW WR Č´QLVK A respected global platform for the profession and the largest funeral trade show in the UK, NFE showcases LQQRYDWLYHSURGXFWV DQG RÎ?HUV WKRXJKW leadership andbusiness networking opportunities for 4,000+ funeral sector professionals.
â&#x20AC;&#x153;The atmosphere at the 2017 show was great and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s certainly delivered business for us. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a big investment, but strong sales leads ensure the investment is worthwhile.â&#x20AC;? Graham Clow National Sales Manager, Coleman Milne
Finest quality grave markers
7H 7HKZ HUK WSH[LZ [V Z\P[ HSS HUK JVM³UZ HUK JHZRL[Z Pads and plates to suit all coffins and caskets
Unit 3, Union Road Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo F91 AKW5
DJ MacNeice leave no stone unturned At DJ MacNeice the aim is simple; to constantly grow, improve and innovate both the wide product range and service side of what has become established as a business at the heart of the funeral industry in Ireland - continuing our proud tradition of supplying high quality, competitively priced funeral and mortuary products across the country. Our aim remains today the same as it did many years ago - to serve as a one stop shop for all your funeral and mortuary needs. The door is always open should you wish to pay us a visit, as many customers do. Alternatively, our extensive range of products is available to view on our website. You can place your quote request through our website and a friendly member of our sales team will contact you to discuss your order and answer any questions you might have. We offer a customising service for condolence books. Just provide your business details and we can print them on condolence book covers and Mass card holders in gold or silver. This is a great way to get your business’ name out there. Our full range of embalming products are displayed in our showroom. This is a must see for any embalmer! As well as embalming chemicals, we supply a full range of embalming products such as instruments, personal protective equipment and mortuary airbrush make-up kits. Our fully trained sales team will be on hand should you have any questions regarding
any products. We are constantly updating our product range to bring you the latest innovations in the industry. If there is something we don’t stock that you want we are more than happy to source it for you. If you can’t personally call we have many other ways for you to place an order with us. We are always contactable by phone so you can call in an order anytime. This comes with the benefit of next day delivery with our courier service so you can be confident you will have the products you need, when you need them. DJ Mac Neice has a long history in the funeral industry but our aim has always stayed the same - to provide products of the highest quality at a competitive price while delivering excellent customer service. We look forward to doing business with you in the future. DJ Mac Neice & Co. Ltd, Unit 3, Union Road Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo F91 AKW5 - Tel: 01-8828731 Email: sales@ djmacneice.com Web: www.djmacneice.com FuneralTimes | 53
SAIF NEWS ... SAIF NEWS ...
SAIF Annual General Meeting and Banquet Weekend 2018 O
n the Saturday morning we had over 110 members attending the Annual General Meeting. It began with an introduction from the Chief Executive, Terry Tennens with National President Paul Bowley welcoming the guests. President Elect Alun Tucker then offered a minute’s silence in memory of all those who had passed during the year. The AGM Reports were then presented by a selection of speakers, with agreement to the 2017 AGM minutes, proposed changes to the Rules and By-Laws and Articles of Association. Gary Staker and Nigel Appleby both stood down from their roles as SAIF National Executive Committee Members. Elected to the National Executive Committee by proxy vote were Ross Hickton, Daniel Ginder, Paul Allcock, Gemma O’Driscoll and Darren Carpenter. There were also nominations for Director spaces, with Chris Parker and Sean Martin being elected by ‘show of hands’. Following the AGM there was a seminar from Louise Love and Alison Wilson of Golden Charter on the impending changes to the current Data Protection Act, which comes into force on the 25th May 2018 called the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). The afternoon was then kept free to explore Brighton for those who were not attending the SAIFNext Gen meeting. Saturday evening commenced with Dave Lynn (drag artist) who accompanied Paul Bowley and his partner Davina into the room – which went down with lots of laughter. Further entertainment was by the Suprema, the ultimate Mowtown cover band, and finally the customary bacon and egg rolls.
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National President Paul Bowley, with Alun Tucker, President Elect (now the new National President)
Sunday morning saw the installation of Alun Tucker as the new National President of SAIF along with Jim Auld as 1st Vice President and Mark Porteous as 2nd Vice President, with master of ceremonies Mark Woollard. I would like to take the time to thank all the staff at SAIF headquarters, the stewards, and all those who also contributed to the event to make my first AGM Banquet weekend a success.
Join the association thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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
Fire Extinguisher Recall! Do you have a fire extinguisher labelled ‘Kidde’? If you have one of these extinguishers which are small sealed units with plastic handles then look at the manufacturer’s recall information to check the model number. If it matches, register for a replacement which can be undertaken by either via the weblink or by phoning. This is also take the opportunity to check for damage or deterioration of all such extinguishers.
First Aid Leaflet Revised 2018 T
he HSE has updated some of its guidance material that covers first aid at work. The document is available from the members secure area on the website and now includes guidance on automated external defibrillators. It is advisable to keep a copy of the leaflet in first aid boxes as a basic guide to first aid equipment.
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Getting it right for the family is what counts
E
ighteen months ago I was interviewed by a local Dublin Radio Station about the option of civil funeral ceremonies in Ireland. During that interview, I was asked questions about this new way that a family could honour their loved one in a dignified and meaningful manner. I was asked how a ceremony was structured, what type of music or poetry choices families made etc. I was also asked of my creditentials, and what qualifications I had to lead a service. A few weeks ago, I was asked back by the same interviewer to talk about the sharp rise in popularity of civil funerals, and more so, the demands it can make on a celebrant’s life. We are all aware of the time pressures of arranging a funeral, and this is really felt by a civil celebrant who has to meet with a family and discuss the direction that the
service will take, then head home to design, and write up a ceremony, before emailing a first draft to the family. Then it’s liaising with the family to arrange speakers, music, poetry, and fine tuning the content, ensuring the script is flawless, makes sense, flows seamlessly, and is delivered in a professional, dignified manner. This is all turned around in a 24 – 72 hours deadline! This in itself presents physical challenges, with many late hours, waiting for email replies that may have many last minute adjustments and new content. What is presented as a full service on the day has in fact taken many hours of patient work, possibly with a family who are not in total agreement. Each ceremony is totally different. There are no two ceremonies the same, as each one reflects the deceased, their beliefs, values,
CIVIL FUNERAL CEREMONIES Padraic Cawley MICF Civil Funeral Celebrant
Celebrating the life of the deceased, reflecting their personal beliefs, wishes, values and traditions.
087 267 6050
padraic@padraiccawley.ie www.padraiccawley.ie
INS STITUTE OF
C I V I L FU NE RA R LS
FuneralTimes | 57
and traditions. When I meet with a family, I start with a blank sheet of paper – there is no ‘copy and paste’. While each ceremony has to have a structure with a ‘start, middle and an end’, there are no other similarities. Becoming a civil funeral celebrant almost seven years ago was not a business decision. I became a civil funeral celebrant because I felt called to it. It is such an honour and a privilege to be helping families on their grief journey, and to be taking them into my care. Recently, the son of a lady whose funeral
I officiated at, commented that he was dreading the morning of the funeral, but it turned out to be a beautiful day, and he put it down to the ceremony that I delivered, and how it gave him such comfort, knowing in his heart that his mother would be proud of him! That means more to me than any end of year balance sheet, knowing that he will always be contented in his heart. Padraic Cawley MICF Civil Funeral Celebrant
Wreath Manufacture & Wholesale At Tom Sharkey & Sons Ltd.
Barrack Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.
We have an extensive stock ready for delivery or collection including: • Circles of Life • Posies • Sprays • Hearts • Crosses • Cushions • Pillows • Gates of Heaven • Footballs and Jerseys • Posies with Candles • Lettering Wreaths
All wreaths are created by fully qualified florists, reflecting contemporary design in floral arrangements. All at very competitive prices Discounts apply on scale of your orders. Special requests catered for at shortest notice
n Free next day delivery on orders over €100
n Call or email now to receive our new brochure
Telephone: +00353 (0)94 986 0658 or email: sales@allseasonsflorists.ie
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 so embalmers the highest standards off 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: 58 | FuneralTimes
Glyn Tallon - 14 Academy Street, Navan, Co. Meath Tel: 086 826 8876 / Fax: 046 903 6001 Web: www.tallonmortuaryspecialists.com Email: info@tallonmortuaryspecialists.com
Through our own personal experience we received the inspiration to set up Treasured Keepsakes, to give people a wide variety of options upon a loved oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passing should they choose to keep a lock of hair, cremated remains, a piece of jewellery, a photograph or anything that is a personal reminder of their loved one in a small keepsake, keepsake pendant or urn. Funeral directors we are currently working with have tailored our service to suit their needs. We have two options of how our service can work for you. If you wish you can buy our products from us at a wholesale price and sell them directly to your clients. Alternatively we can offer this service to your clients directly. We would hope that by recommending our service we will enhance and add value to your business at no extra cost to you.
For more information contact us or visit our website Tel: 01 825 4579 From NI: 00353 1 825 4579 info@treasuredkeepsakes.ie www.treasuredkeepsakes.ie
BIE News Ireland Division F
irst of all, from the Irish division, we would like to wish Barbara Fowley MBIE all the very best for the year ahead in her tenure as national president. The conference will take place this year from April 20th to 22nd at Bosworth Hall, The Park, Market Bosworth, Leicestershire CV13 OLB. Booking forms available from Anubis House. Just a reminder that the Irish division will not be hosting an educational weekend in 2018, instead we have decided to host our weekend on the opposite year to the Keele Convention. Keele, this year will be held from September 7th to 9th at Keele University. We would kindly ask as many members as possible to support either of these events but particularly national conference to give Barbara all the support she deserves. Again, until the next edition, I would like you wish each and every student and member all the very best and hope to see you all at our next divisional meeting which will be held in the Hamlet Court Hotel, Johnstownbridge, Enfield, Co. Meath on May 13th 2018 at 2pm.
Hamlet Court Hotel, Co. Meath
Bosworth Hall, Leicestershire 60 | FuneralTimes
Cyril Gantley
List of BIE Officers and appointed representatives for 2017/2018 National President: Amanda Woodward Imm. Past President: Gwen Schofield National PRO & National General Secretary: Mrs Karen Caney FBIE White Meadow Cottage, Brailsford, Derby DE6 3DA Tel: 01332 349035(BIE) Mobile: 07786 432014 karencaney@btopenworld.com National Treasurer: Michael Liddle MBIE 10 Yew Tree Close, Silsoe MK45 4EQ Business Tel: 01582 490005 Home Tel: 01525 860117 michael@silsloe.wanadoo.co.uk Editor: Gwen Schofield MBIE 9 Seymour Walk, Meltham, Holmfirth HD9 4BP Home Tel: 01484 851994 Mobile: 07778 279100 gwen.schofield@ntlworld.com Master Fellow: Anthony Williams-Price Tel : 01443 830 328 Student Liaison Officer: Lizzy Bollington-Kinch Anubis House, 21c Station Road, Knowle, Solihull B93 0HL, Tel: 01564 778 991
IRISH DIVISION Chairman Mr.Cyril Gantley MBIE 336 Kildare Road, Crumlin, Dublin 12 Mobile:00353 857671582 cyril.gantley@mortuary-science.ie Vice Chairman Mr.Shane Casey MBIE Gortnabinna, Ballingeary, Macroom, Co.Cork. Mobile: 00353 860744117 info@caseyfunerals.ie Secretary Susan Moran MBIE Maydown House, Aughraboura, Athy, Co.Kildare. Mobile: 00353 860619500 moransfuneralservices@gmail.com
NORTHERN IRELAND DIVISION Chairman & 2nd National Council Representative Laurence O'Neill 98 Stewartstown Road Belfast BT11 9JP Tele: 028 90 620099 Email: oneill8210@hotmail.com Treasurer Andrew McMullan MBIE 22 High Street, Ballymoney, Co. Antrim BT53 6AQ Andrew@mcmullanfunerals.com 1st National Council Representative Ellison Sloan MBIE Telephone: 02838 336175 poots@fsni.info
National Council Rep Mr.John Hawe MBIE 12 Meadow Vale, Smith’s Road, Charleville, Co.Cork Mobile: 00353 876390087 jmhawe@eircom.net
1st National Educational Committee Representative Stephen Shields James Brown & Sons, 300 Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 1HF Tele: 028 9045 1021
2nd National Council Rep and Educational Rep Pamela Murphy MBIE 14 Parknasillogue Court, Enniskerry, Co.Wicklow Mobile:00353 857415421
2nd National Educational Committee Representative Pat Harley MBIE 67 Creggan Road, Londonderry BT48 9DA Mobile: 077128 99137
Treasurer Mrs Anna O’Reilly MBIE Church Street, Newmarket, Co.Cork Tel:02960142 annaoreilly4@hotmail.com
Divisional Secretary Elizabeth Douglas 3 Rathlin Crest, Ballymena BT43 5JA Mobile: 07483 178508 Email: izzydouglas31@gmail.com
Phschoolofembalming@hotmail.com
FuneralTimes | 61
BIE News Northern Ireland Division
T
he Northern Irish Quarterly BIE meeting was held on 11th April 2018 at Hugh Wade & Son, Coleraine and BIE Certificates were presented by Mr Marshall Lindsay to Nicholas Gormley and Michael Gormley of J.A. Gormley Funeral Directors, Maghera.
GerryWreath McDermott Manufacturer Circular Road, Roscommon
Mob: 086 2544126 or Mob: 086 8205215 62 | FuneralTimes
2018 – a year of new things for Eulogica! 2018 is taking shape as a year of development for the Eulogica team, with various new things – some major, some minor – on the cards! NEW TEAM MEMBER The first, and arguably most major change, is the addition of a new member to the Eulogica UK and Ireland team. Luke Jones is a computer science graduate, and joins the team in a support role, offering telephone and email support to Eulogica clients across the UK and Ireland. Luke’s background is in computer software, spending his first two years at Sheffield Hallam doing Games Software Development before transferring to Computer Studies for his final year and graduating with a 2:1 Bachelors, in 2017. He then worked as Technical Support for a property developer based in Doncaster, South Yorkshire for 6 months, supporting the head office for all their IT-related needs and issues. In his spare time, Luke follows a variety of sports with a majority of his focus being on the NFL and NBA, supporting the New England Patriots in the NFL, and the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA. Aside from sports, he also has a keen interest in video games, both past and present, dating all to the way to playing the original Mario Kart and Street Fighter 2 on the SNES as a kid. APPS, INTEGRATIONS AND MORE! In technical news, the very first Eulogica mobile app is almost complete. This first version, designed to allow funeral directors to check and manage task status while on the move, is undergoing final testing and should be available very soon. Another new addition, which can also link in with mobile technology, is the ability
to sync the Eulogica diary with a Google calendar. From Google, it is possible to share with just about any platform, from Android to Apple to Outlook and beyond! With this integration set up, it will be possible to view an upcoming schedule and availability from almost any device. With more add-ons and integrations in the pipeline, plus Eulogica’s pre-existing powerfully bespoke administration system, 2018 looks sure to be an interesting year!
FuneralTimes | 63
New delivery from Fearghas Quinn R. Gibney of Gibneys of Oldcastle Funeral Directors, collects his new hearse from Fearghas James collects his new E class Hearse from Fearghas Quinn Hearse & QuinnNagle, HearseCo. andClare Limousines. Limousines
Vintage Hearse Hire Fully restored 1939 Austin 20 vintage hearse
Can be used for all occasions: • Funerals • Funeral Premises Openings • Trade Exhibitions The vehicle is regularly serviced and is valeted to the highest standards for each occasion, so it will arrive on the day in pristine condition for the occasion. On the day your company name can be displayed in the side glass of the vehicle.
A professional, uniformed chauffeur/ bearer will also be provided.
T: 028 3753 1354 (NI) / 048 3753 1354 (ROI) Mobile: (+44) (0)7712 872391 Web: www.vintagehearsehire.net 64 | FuneralTimes
Stephen McCosh Funeral Directors add Coleman Milne to their fleet
Coleman Milnes Tony Kerr and Stephen McCosh Belfast based Stephen McCosh Funeral Directors have taken Delivery of their first Coleman Milne fleet. The Mercedes E213 Hearse and limousine will service both offices in Belfast and Newtownabbey and have been designed to provide the best in style and comfort. The Hearse has been fitted with illuminating signs to make the vehicles easily distinguishable as belonging to Stephen Mc Cosh Funeral Directors and both the Hearse and Limousine are furnished in leather with keen attention paid to the finer details. Stephen said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are incredibly proud to have taken delivery of a new fleet of 2018 Mercedes Hearse and Limo. We see this as
ongoing commitment to giving nothing but the best to those who choose our services. Our business has grown rapidly over the last three years and brought us to needing to add to our already existing Mercedes fleet of vehicles. These beautiful vehicles bring a presence that stands out and enhances our already exceptional reputation amongst the local community.â&#x20AC;? Stephen McCosh has a solid reputation for caring for his community, both in his professional capacity as a funeral director but also as a sponsor for three local football clubs, amongst other things. Stephen has also recently opened a second office which makes his services available to a wider area.
w: http://edellemcmahon.com T: +44 (0) 791 998 4176 E: edellemcmahonmusic@gmail.com FuneralTimes | 65
Interview with Clive Anderson By Jennifer Muldowney
C
live Anderson has been living in the US for the last 14 years. He is an Irish native from Co Cork who now lives and works just 25 minutes from Times Square in New York City. He is the owner of Pelham Funeral Home and has been a funeral director and embalmer for over fifteen years. He wasn’t born into the business as many funeral directors are but rather Clive feels as though he was ‘called’ into the service. This moment occurred when Clive lost his father to cancer. His experience of the funeral profession stimulated his desire to help others. He got his experience in Ireland, initially with Jeremiah O’ Connor & Sons Funeral Home in Co. Cork before immigrating to the United States to get formal training in the funeral profession and working as a funeral service consultant for Matthews International. Clive believes the Irish deal with death very well, as he said “the whole community stops. Irish Weddings are optional, Funerals are compulsory”. He thinks the American funeral industry has gotten quite commercial and has “forgotten the old ways” of respecting the body. He mentioned the
66 | FuneralTimes
animal kingdom and how animals grieve a loss and that it is a part of the process we should all embrace. He believes spending time with and looking after the body is both respectful of a life lived and a natural part of the grieving process. Notable funerals that he has had the opportunity to plan included a thrice Powerball (similar to the Lotto) winner and an old Irish man who was homeless and passed away on the streets. He strives to make each funeral unique and special and include as many personal touches to the service as possible and this can include photos of the deceased placed all around the funeral home, their favourite music playing, smells filling the rooms, flags flying and a guest book for all who arrive to sign. The recipient of several awards, Clive has been recognized by Irish Newspaper, The Irish Echo “40 under 40” for his contributions to the Irish community in the US and was also an aide to the GrandMarshal of the Irish Business Organization on St Patrick’s Day In NYC. He was honoured by the Irish Aisling Center in New York in September 2017.
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.
FEEDBACK FEEDBACK "very happy and emotional" "very happy and emotional" "loved her fuseball pendant of "loved her fuseball pendant of her mother's ashes. She never her mother's ashes. takes it off and she She criednever when I takes and she cried when I gave itit off to her." gave it to her." "It has been such an incredibly "It has time been such incredibly hard and an your jewellery hard time and your has meant so muchjewellery to me. I has meant so much to me. I really appreciate you taking the really appreciate you taking the time to listen to my requests" time to listen to my requests" "Youdo doa amarvellous marvellous it is "You job,job, it is veryspecial specialand andit it does very does notnot go go unnoticedororunappreciated unappreciated unnoticed - keep up upyour yourgood goodwork work keep andand thankyou!" you!" thank
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Did you pick up some leaflets Did pick up some leaflets at theyou Funeral Times show in at the Funeral Times show in Citywest? Citywest? Offer this service hassle FREE Offer this without any service payment.hassle FREE without any payment.
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Lost in Translation? As Irish society has changed in recent years and many nationalities chose to make their home here it poses a challenge to the funeral industry. The challenge facing the funeral director is how to provide a funeral service which embraces the traditions and customs of the person involved while still remaining practical and timely. Those involved in Civil funerals are uniquely placed to deal with the issues which arise. Mary Elizabeth Dillon of Civil Funerals Ireland has prepared services for many nationalities and expands as follows. Firstly, it is very important to explain to the family how funeral services run in Ireland - in particular that funerals usually take place quickly but that time frames can be extended to allow for family to arrive from abroad. Secondly, spending time talking about their particular customs and practices and working out what is important to them and what can reasonably be facilitated. Working with one family she discovered that in Scandinavia it is common for people to come forward individually and place a small bouquet on the coffin and to speak some words of farewell to the deceased before returning to their seats. She was happy to accommodate this request but the numbers coming forward had to be limited to immediate family due to time constraints
in the crematorium. Further, when people wish to speak in their own language it is necessary to explain that it is better to speak a few words from the heart and to have them translated by another person than speaking at length without being understood. Many people from Africa like to sing, sway or dance as part of the ceremony in a very heartfelt way and for us, restrained, Irish people this may seem strange but is completely natural to them. When organising a service for a Sri Lankan man Mary Elizabeth researched some traditional Sri Lankan music which was played at the service with an explanation of each piece before it was played. Afterwards those who were present expressed how much it meant to them. A Civil funeral is totally flexible and allows people to express their grief and to say goodbye to their loved one in their own unique and many times colourful way. The flexibility allows mourners to take part in a way that feels right for them according to their tradition. ‘I am learning all the time,’ says Mary Elizabeth, ‘every time I get a call in relation to a person from overseas I know I am facing a challenging situation but one which invariably turns out to be both fulfilling and in a strange way enjoyable.’
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 68 | FuneralTimes
Funerals conducted throughout Ireland
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New shape Jaguars for Gresty's
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ictured outside Wilcox Limousines Chalfont St Peter premises are Paul & Louis Wilcox handing over David Grestyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest fleet acquisition, a pair of new shape Jaguars. These were specially finished in caviar with beige leather interior. These particular Jaguars have petrol engines, Paul & Louis Wilcox handing over David Grestyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest fleet there is also a diesel engine acquisition model available. Included in the very high specification are David is a third generation funeral director, satellite navigation, self -levelling suspension, his grandfather starting the business over 80 reversing cameras and heated steering years ago, they are based in Altrincham and wheels. The vehicles are manufactured from are members of both SAIF and the NAFD, aluminium, which of course cannot rust. David is a past president of the BIFD. David Paul remarked that he had first dealt with said that he aimed to give the best service Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grand-father Arthur in the midpossible to his clients and the Jaguars seventies supplying Rolls-Royces and was certainly fulfil that aim, they are simply delighted to be still supplying the Gresty stunning. family with cars.
Pearson Repatriation Service (UK) ! SMALL INDEPENDENT FAMILY RUN COMPANY OFFERING A FAST AND RELIABLE SERVICE HOURS A DAY
As part of our service to you, we can: s 2EPATRIATE THE DECEASED FROM THE 5+ s 0ROVIDE A COFlN AND INTERIOR s 0ROVIDE EMBALMING SERVICES
Telephone +44 (0)1484 844289 Proprietor Clive J Pearson LMBIFD. DIP.FD. MBIE -ANCHESTER 2OAD -ARSDEN (UDDERSlELD 7EST 9ORKSHIRE 5+ ($ %9 FuneralTimes | 69
Wilcox pre-owned fleet for All Seasons Independent Funeral Directors
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ay and Alison have over 35 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in the funeral business. They have three funeral homes serving the families of Lemington, Pegswood, Prudhoe and the surrounding areas. The first funeral home (R Kinghorn Funeral Directors) dates back to 1901. Professional Funeral Directors, they
Owners Ray and Alison Kinghorn standing alongside their pre-owned Mercedes fleet are members of SAIF. Ray and Alison were delighted with the vehicles, which were part of their ongoing investment in the family business. Wilcox Limousines Ltd would like to thank Ray and Alison for their continued custom and wish them success with their new fleet.
A further Wilcox Hearsette for Andrew Anderson & Sons Funeral Directors
A
ndrew Anderson and Sons commenced business in 1969 in Callander. It was commenced by Andy and Nancy Anderson. In 2014 Andy decided to retire and sold the business to his Grandson, Ross. Ross has decided to grow the business and has recently opened a business in Balfron. He has plans to open a third funeral home in 2018. Professional funeral directors, Ross is a member of NAFD and SAIF. Ross opted for a Wilcox specification Hearsette which includes satellite navigation, front and rear parking sensors, Bluetooth, DAB stereo, climate control, cruise control and alloy wheels. The vehicle has a folding removable deck systems capable of carrying two deceased at one time. Wilcox Limousines Ltd would like to thank 70 | FuneralTimes
Ross Anderson taking delivery of a new Ford Mondeo Hearsette from Wilcox Limousines Ltd. Ross for his continued business and wish him every success with his latest vehicle.
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The new Jaguar XF hearses
New cats purring for New Zealand Funeral Directors
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wo Funeral Directors in Auckland, New Zealand have taken delivery of two new Jaguar XF hearses. These are the first two new Jaguar funeral vehicles to be delivered anywhere in Australasia. This starts to reverse the trend for vehicles from Australia being used by UK funeral services. Manufactured by British Family coachbuilder Wilcox Limousines, the hearses are available with either petrol or diesel engine options or all-wheel drive. Wilcox Limousines, are celebrating their 70th Anniversary in 2018 and are one of only two Jaguar authorised coachbuilders. In the world. Wilcox Limousines are a third generation family owned and managed business, manufacturing a third of the funeral vehicles in the UK and are leaders in the UK used funeral vehicle market.
The vehicles have three years Jaguar warranty and are fully supported by Jaguar New Zealand. The hearses are constructed predominantly from aluminium, utilising methods usually reserved for the aircraft industry. As aluminium cannot rust the method of construction will mean long term durability and high residual value. Louis Wilcox, sales director who accompanied the delivery said â&#x20AC;&#x153;The New Zealand funeral directors were delighted with the new vehicles as they strive to offer the best services, facilities and fleet to bereaved families. These new vehicles will enable them to offer the best service that is possible. We are proud to be supplying these vehicles; this has opened up a new era for Wilcox Limousines. I would like to thank our New Zealand customers for their support. We will strive to offer the same level of service to our clients from New Zealand as we renowned for in the U.K.â&#x20AC;?
FuneralTimes | 71
Dr Bill Webster
Success or Significance I
’ve been to a few funerals lately. Probably you can identify! As I listen to eulogies, celebrating the person’s life, I am realizing that there are really two kinds of tributes. There are the grandiose inventories of success, achievement in business, acquisition in the material world, or accomplishment in the pursuit of status. Then there are the simpler ones that talk about what the person has given more than what they have gained; that list the gifts of those who spend themselves in a worthy cause, whether in world changing or simply everyday service . Increasingly I find myself asking: “What do I hope people will say at my eulogy? How am I going to be remembered?” I find myself increasingly more impressed and moved by people whose lives made a difference in their families, communities and the lives of those they touched, whether locally or nationally. And I am realizing that I would rather be remembered for these kinds of things than for the size of my bank account, my car or my house, or even the accolades I was awarded. Stephen Covey gives the illustration of a group of people making their way through a jungle. Every step is painstaking, hacking their way through obstacles and undergrowth. After many days, the leader suggests he climb up a tree and see where they are. He reaches the top and shouts down, “I have good news and bad news. The good news is that we are making excellent
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progress. The bad news is that we are in the wrong jungle!” Could the same be said of you and me? We may be making excellent progress, but are we in the right jungle? How do we define success? It is not always obvious what it means to be successful in life. The term can describe professional achievement at work or pre-eminence in academics or some other field that brings public recognition. Others speak of successfully raising children and grandchildren which, while sadly not always acknowledged, deserves to be regarded as especially important. John Wooden once defined success as “The sense of satisfaction you get from the knowledge that you have done your best.” That great definition gets us away from delineating success as only the highest and the greatest. If success is defined as those who reach the pinnacle, or who make more money than everybody else, then by that standard, virtually no-one is successful. But by Wooden’s definition, the person who studies and works hard for his B+ is more of a success that the intellectual who settles for an A- when they could have had an A+ with a little more effort. Perhaps we should say that real success should be measured by the ability of individuals to reach their own goals and achieve their own purposes. The secret of life is not accumulation, it is about contribution. Making money and acquiring toys is all very well, but surely of
greater significance is what I am I doing that difficulties simply by refusing to quit and never giving up. Success should be measured will make a difference to my world. As Mark not so much by the position one has reached Twain put it, “Twenty years from now, you in life, as much as by the obstacles they have will be more disappointed by the things you overcome to get there. DIDN’T do than by the ones you DID do.” Aim for success, but strive for To lead a purposeful life, we significance. have to follow our passions. “Twenty years Your significance will be Many people have probably from now, you determined by discovering been guilty, at some point, how you have impacted those of simply going through the will be more around you for good and made motions of life, failing to disappointed a difference in your world. experience the intense burn Relationships and human of passion. The real tragedy by the things interaction are the most occurs when we begin to think you DIDN’T valuable currency in the world. that this is an acceptable way do than by the No monetary gain can match to live. Each and every one of us has a purpose and meaning ones you DID the internal growth that can occur from a single conversation that will ultimately define the do.” or a lifetime of memories shared significance of our time on this with another person. earth. Every single morning, we have a chance to Determining eventual and significance make the change and to become the person depends on the ability to keep striving in the you really want to be. face of disappointment, rejection and even You just have to decide to go ahead and do failure. I find myself admiring those people it. who seem to overcome insurmountable
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Mercedes fleet for Brain and Waldron B
rain and Waldron has been serving the Smethwick community for over thirty years, providing expert care to grieving families in their time of need. At the helm is Ashley Savell-Boss and Stephen Wood who also both come with 30 years experience in the funeral trade. They manage Trinity Funeral Services and Brain and Waldron Ltd , the new fleet will be in service across both branches. Having used Mercedes vehicles in the part, Ashley wanted to renew his fleet with the same prestigious brand and chose the Coleman Milne model; “We knew we wanted Mercedes again and we really liked the Coleman Milne design. We’ve had a very positive reaction to the new vehicles from our customers”. Brain and Waldron opted for the expansive
Stephen Wood and Stacey Moore glass roof on the hearse, this feature allows light to flood the deck area and is a modern touch to a classic design. The leather interior has also evoked a good response from customers and staff alike who note the comfort and luxury feel of the vehicles. We would like to thank Ashley and Stephen for choosing their first Coleman Milne fleet.
Jim Drummond chooses Coleman Milne Mercedes
Jim Drummond with Coleman Milne’s Tony Kerr
J
im Drummond has over 30 years in the funeral trade and started his family run business 4 years ago. Since then, Jim and his team have supported local families through their losses with care and dedication and built an excellent reputation. Jim came to Coleman Milne as a new customer, and selected the Mercedes E220 Hearse. This design is one of Coleman
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Milnes most popular models, both because of its elegance and its reliability. The Hearse features dual zone climate control, coffin illumination lights and fullsized underdeck storage. Jim said “It’s been a pleasure dealing with Coleman Milne, and our clients have commented that the new vehicle is very smart.”
David Robb Funeral Directors with their new hearse
New Coleman Milne customer, David Robb, chooses Cardinal MK11 D avid Robb has spent his entire working life in the funeral industry, from the age of 17 he began as an office junior and after 18 years the decision was made to take his undeniable skills and experience and offer them as an Independent Funeral Director. The company has gone from strength to strength and his glowing reputation is testament to his care and professionalism. After years in the industry David was already well aware of Coleman Milne and their long history as manufacturer of ceremonial vehicles and it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t long until David was in a position to select his own Coleman Milne Cardinal MK11. This traditional hearse features leather seating and three bearer seats with cover boards. Drivers tech includes parking sensors, reversing camera and cruise control.
The wreath rail allows for personalised adornments for each occasion. David said â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have always been aware of Coleman Milne and the high standards of vehicles they supply. I had been looking for a hearse for the last 6 months and there was nothing about that really stood out to me. This hearse became available and all it took was one call to Tony from Coleman Milne and everything was taken care of including delivery. A big thanks to Tony and the team at Coleman Milne for all their help. The hearse has had lots of good comments from our clients and is exactly the type of vehicle I was looking for.â&#x20AC;?
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