The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland
Celtic Coffins Ltd. 13 G Axis Business Park Tullamore, Co.Offaly Te l : 0 9 0 6 4 2 5 0 2 2 Peter: 087 960 7521 David: 087 063 5917
North West Distribution Jackie Carron Ballintra, Co.Donegal Tel: 074 973 4000 Mob: 087 973 4000 Area Sales Manager Sean Bergin Durrow, Co.Laois Tel:087 990 9526
www.celticcofďŹ ns.ie
2014 Vol.14 No 4
The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland
By special request..........................................................6
Clonmel gets set for texting.......................................71
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
Music for weeping..... 24
New face at CM......... 69
Contents
DNA Memorial launch........................................4 Liam’s special request......................................... 6 Benny’s business is growing..............................10 Quinns of Dundalk............................................ 13 IAFD News......................................................... 18 Goltraí - A music for weeping.......................... 24 BIE News........................................................... 30 FAQs on a Civil Funeral................................... 43 NAFD News....................................................... 46 Mattie Lennon on finding humour in the darkest places......................................... 52 Tips for attracting traffic by Jennifer Muldowney.....................................55 SAIF News......................................................... 56 Gus Nichols comments on the industry......... 60 Dr Bill Webster.................................................. 65 Tony Kerr appointed Area Sales Manager for Coleman Milne......... 69 Memorial Text launched in Clonmel................ 71 "Do We Really Care", asks Padraic Cawley..... 79 Classifieds........................................................... 81
Disclaimer: Readers are urged to support the magazine’s advertisers, but the publishers cannot be held responsible for any claims made or implied in the advertisements. The publishers reserve the right to refuse advertising. Opinions expressed in this magazine by contributing writers and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contributed for inclusion in this magazine but no legal responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for loss arising from the use of published articles. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior consent. Articles and photographs for inclusion are welcomed but the publishers cannot accept responsibility for their loss or damage however caused. FuneralTimes | 3
DNA Memorial launch in the UK and Ireland DNA Memorial www.dnamemorial.com has developed a proprietary process of extracting DNA from non-invasive mouth swab or hair samples and binding the DNA to silica which can be stored at room temperature indefinitely. The process offers funeral directors the option to provide families a “last chance” to collect and retain their loved ones DNA. Funeral directors understand the finality of the decisions made by families during funeral arrangements for their deceased loved ones and know the importance of emphasizing facts such as: 1. The cremation process is irreversible. Unlike burial, cremation is a final disposition of human remains. 2. All genealogical and medical DNA is destroyed by the cremation process. 3. Even after burial, disinterment is costly both emotionally and financially. In many areas, disinterment requires legal and court action. Some may wonder why a family would choose to collect their deceased loved one’s DNA. The significance of DNA research for medical reasons including identification of early stage diseases and utilising DNA for analysis for cures is becoming increasingly prevalant. Just recently, the BBC News/ Health published a story by James Gallagher - August 1; DNA project ‘to make UK world genetic research leader’, highlighting the facts and importance of DNA in regards to medical research. For many, another compelling reason for DNA collection is where and who we come from. DNA provides a 100% accurate family lineage securing important and lasting legacy for future generations. The importance of funeral directors providing information about DNA collection recently became reality for a family served by Paul McEvoy, funeral director in Newry, County Down. Paul provided a family with information about DNA collection. The mother made the decision not only to retain her deceased daughters DNA, but also 4 | FuneralTimes
purchased custom DNA jewellery for her and her surviving daughter as a keepsake, stating that she would have been very annoyed had she found out that it was available and had not been asked. After this experience, Paul realized that he had an obligation to simply provide the option to families whereby they would make their own decisions. Since, several families have made the choice to collect their deceased loved one’s DNA while making funeral arrangements at Paul’s funeral home. Because of the impact and response from families that Paul McEvoy personally served, the newly formed DNA Memorial Ireland/ United Kingdom team firmly believes in the importance of offering the products/services to other funeral professionals and ultimately to the families they serve. For more information about DNA Memorial, visit www. dnamemorial.com or call one of the DNA Memorial Ireland/United Kingdom team.
Kate Hamilton
Mobile (UK) 07733467965
Paul McEvoy
Mobile (UK) 07753615914
Colin McAteer
Mobile (IRE) 00353861722955
Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada-CG Labs, Inc. www.cglabscorp.com announces the appointment of Kate Hamilton, Paul McEvoy and Colin McAteer as exclusive representatives of DNA Memorial www.dnamemorial.com operating as DNA Memorial Ireland/United Kingdom. The IE/UK team is comprised of experienced funeral and business professionals providing funeral directors with the training, products and services offered by DNA Memorial. “We are excited about our new DNA Memorial team and working with such an esteemed group as we launch in Ireland and the United Kingdom” says CG Labs President Jeff Harbeson.
Testimonial..... “On 16th June 2014 I lost my beautiful daughter Orla Rose after a 9 year battle with cystic fibrosis, a day I will never forget. Today is another day I will not forget as today myself and Orla’s sister received an amazing piece of jewellery and more importantly it is made from Orla’s DNA. I now have a piece of my baby right beside my heart. Words cannot describe the feeling I got when I placed it on my neck for the first time, I will be forever grateful to have been offered this opportunity to keep a little bit of her close to me at all times”. Sharon Mullins. FuneralTimes | 5
Liam’s special request It is always pleasing when a family acknowledge the efforts of a funeral director and Mark Kinsella of Thomas Murphy & Sons of Bray, Co. Wicklow was naturally delighted to receive the following correspondence after carrying out the arrangements for well known local man Liam Kelly.
L
iam was quite a character and known throughout Ireland and beyond through both his business and motoring exploits. Liam started his love of motoring with stock car racing in Santry where he was known as “Baby Bear”. He was a regular entrant in the
6 | FuneralTimes
Gordon Bennett Rally with his 1914 Model T Ford and also owned and drove a 1979 Rolls Royce, a 1924 Chevrolet Superior and a Ford Cortina 1600E. He regularly took these vehicles to shows throughout the country. Liam was a member of the Irish Veteran &
Liam Kelly R.I.P 1952 – 2014 Vintage Car Club and Chairman of the Garden of Ireland Vintage Car Club where he raised hundreds of thousands of Euro for charity. At his funeral donations in lieu were contributed to the Wicklow R.N.L.I. A larger than life character, Liam was also renowned as a DJ and for his involvement in the film industry, including work on Father Ted, and was a great story teller known as the life and soul of any event. Liam’s wish was to be carried to the cemetery on one of his highly recognisable Kelly Recovery vehicles. Despite the challenges all went smoothly and Mark Kinsella was relieved to see the mile long cortège arrive at the church. We would like to thank Charlie Sharkey Photography for all the photographs which brilliantly capture the remarkable funeral of a remarkable man.
O
n the 3rd August 2014, my brother Liam Kelly of Kelly Recovery Kilmacanogue, Co Wicklow, passed away. Our family have always used Thomas Murphy & Sons on these sad occasions. This company have always been so professional and attended to all our needs. Their Funeral Director Mr Mark Kinsella excelled with all the arrangements which were a bit different to the “normal” funeral. Nothing was too much trouble for him. At times like this it is important to have someone you can trust to carry out the wishes of the family. Without a doubt this was done to the letter. Liam’s request was that he did not want to be put into a hearse but that his casket be placed on one of our trucks. I have seen coffins placed on trucks before and they were held down with ratchet straps. This was not going to happen to Liam’s. We had a carpenter who purpose made a platform where his casket was placed securely. We then covered the truck with green grass matting. Liam was very well known all over Ireland and beyond, fellow Recovery Operators and members of the various Vintage Car Clubs came with their trucks and vintage cars to accompany Liam on his final journey. It was a sight to be seen as his cortège stretched for over a mile. I wish on behalf of the Kelly Family to thank Mr Mark Kinsella and his team at Thomas Murphy & Sons for all their help and kindness at this sad time. Eilis Kelly (Sister) FuneralTimes | 7
: : :
Benny’s business is growing every day Funeral directors in Ireland often have a second career. There is nothing unusual in the local publican or florist doubling up as a funeral director. Journeying across the country we see a wide variety of second jobs. However Benny Martin from Moy, Co. Tyrone is surely unique in that he combines funeral directing with growing and selling Christmas trees!
B
.J. Martin and Son Funeral Directors was started by Benny’s father in 1950 in the village of Moy with Benny working alongside his father from an early age. He gained great experience travelling the length and breadth of Ireland selling coffins for Dominic Muldoon of Aughnacloy and saw for himself the growth in the number of funeral homes and the improvement in premises over recent years. When his father passed away, Benny took over the business and in 2011 decided to build a funeral home on a beautiful semi-rural site just outside the village. Around the same time Benny began to grow his headstone business and decided to expand further with an impressive two storey monumental stone showroom. The development is now complete and B.J. Martin and Son is re-establishing itself as one
of the leading funeral directors in the large hinterland between Armagh and Dungannon – but Benny hasn’t forgotten his years on the road, maintaining a pristine display of Muldoon’s coffins available for families. “About 20 years ago I decided to go into the Christmas tree business”, says Benny, “We how have about 80,000 trees planted and have developed a retail and wholesale trade. Families come and buy trees for their homes. We also supply larger trees to hotels and clubs as well as for alternative out door usage. A standard indoor tree takes between 6-8 years to reach maturity and the larger trees can take up to 20 years. We grow a variety of types, each
The new premises includes a funeral church 10 | FuneralTimes
An impressive tree-lined avenue leads to the new premises
Stars Of Print And Screen
B
with their own characteristics of colour, smell and shape – the current fashion is for the non shedding variety which retain their needles throughout the Christmas season”. Benny now finds himself with three very successful businesses – funeral directors, monumental masons and Christmas trees.
A selection of Muldoons coffins on display
.J. Martin have another claim to fame in that they featured in a book and film produced by 13 time Emmy Award winning TV producer Greg Palmer. Benny is unsure how Palmer got in touch with his late father, however a crew turned up and filmed the business as part of a project on funeral rituals around the world. “I remember that my father was surprised by the scale of the whole thing”, recalls Benny, “Greg Palmer was a major figure and wanted to feature the Irish Wake as one example of how different races around the world handle death. It so happened that we had a funeral coming up and Palmer asked my father to get permission from the family to film. Sure enough in about 1992 the film, “Keep the Party Going” came out and was shown on television around the world”. The family were surprised to find that there was an accompanying book, ‘Death - The trip of a lifetime’, in which Benny Martin featured heavily. The publication is still available on Amazon and needless to say their original copy remains a prized family possession.
The new funeral home FuneralTimes | 11
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Quinns preserve Dundalk’s retail heritage ift underwent a facel The orginal sign s pu m Ca n’s in Qu on and is now found
The first Quinn’s supermarket opened it’s doors in 1960
I
t was 1960 and Feargal Quinn, entrepreneur and pioneer of the supermarket concept in Ireland, opened the doors of his first Quinn’s Supermarket on Clanbrassil Street in Dundalk. It was a confusing time for his customers. Up to this time, shoppers went to their traditional merchants with a list and waited at the counter while their order was gathered, without the opportunity to view what they were buying or indeed consider something else altogether. Now, the shopper could walk the many brightly lit aisles of fresh food and make their own selections. It was a retail revolution. Feargal would expand the business to a chain of stores as well as rebranding in the 1970’s as Superquinn on his way to becoming one of Ireland’s most successful and influential businessmen, focusing heavily on superior customer service.
Though the Quinn family sold the business in 2005, the Superquinn brand was maintained until this year, with all stores rebranding as Supervalu. The signage which adorned the Dundalk store from its opening in 1960 until the rebranding to Superquinn in the 1970’s is clearly visible in this photograph from the stores first year in business. On its removal with the rebranding, it was acquired by Quinn’s Funeral Homes in Dundalk (alas, no relation to Feargal!) and found a new home on the operations building on Quinn’s campus, which houses the company’s vehicles, coffin trimming and care of deceased functions. Now 54 years old, the signage received a facelift recently and new led lighting which will ensure this piece of Dundalk’s retail heritage endures for many years to come. FuneralTimes | 13
New hearse from Fearghas Quinn John and Bernadette of Sheahan’s Funeral Home (Dun laoghaire) take delivery of their new insignia from Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousines
Hearse & Limousines Tel: 028/048 2582 2525 Fax: 028/048 2582 2299
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Email: fearghas@fearghasquinn.com or visit our website for more information ** Feel free to call us, with no obligation. Rest assured we will not pester you with phone calls or unsolicited visits **
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Scotland & Ireland: Tony Kerr 07860 586850
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IAFD News Board Retirement J
ohn O’Donoghue made a decision some time ago to retire as a director and officially did so at the board meeting in July past. In total John has served the Association for over fourteen years, firstly as a member of the Council and then following the incorporation as a limited company, as a director on the board. He was Honorary Treasurer for a number of years, President in 2007 and has served on the Membership and Excellence Committee (MEC) since it was established. President Henry Black, the Board and all members wish to record their appreciation to John for his commitment and contribution over so many years. However, he is not leaving us completely as he will remain as a non-board member of the MEC. We all wish him a long and healthy ‘retirement’!
Significant birthday for James
James Brown with IAFD President Henry Black 18 | FuneralTimes
At our last board meeting in July in Cobh, it gave me great pleasure to make a presentation to James Brown to mark a significant birthday. On behalf of the board and the membership we wish James a very happy birthday and we look forward to the next milestone. Henry Black
IAFD News
Why join the IAFD?? For just a little more than €1 a day you get: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Professional Indemnity Insurance Membership of professional organisation recognised by the general public Unique all island network of funeral directors Representation of members with Government, Local Authorities and Media (IAFD is recognised as first point of contact) Code of Practice Funeral Directors led organisation for promoting and developing standards of funeral service Full access to IAFD Education Programme and wide range of courses Excellence Programme Board of Funeral professionals available to assist Members Complaints Procedure Dispute Resolution and Mediation Legal Advisory Service Links to other trade Associations
Dates for your Diary 2014 Regional Meeting on 25th September 2014 Clybaun Hotel, Knocknacara, Galway City at 2.30pm
Open Meeting 16th October 2014 The Malton Hotel, Killarney 7.30pm for 8pm.
22nd November 2014 AGM, Silver Springs Hotel, Cork.
FuneralTimes | 19
IAFD News Henry Black (President) Henry Black Funeral Directors Springbank, Rushbrooke, Cobh Phone: 021 4811630 Mobile: 087 2544106 Michael Crowley (Vice President) Crowley Funeral Directors Bothar Saclay, Ballincollig, Co. Cork. Phone: 021 4874777 Email: info@crowleyfuneraldirectors.ie Gerard Clarke (Hon. Secretary) Gerard Clarke & Sons Funeral Home Main Street, Balisodare, Sligo Ph: 071 9130700 Mobile: 087 2565310 Email: gerardclarkeandsons@eircom.net John Foley (Hon. Treasurer) Jennings Funeral Directors 81 Amien Street Dublin 1 Ph: 01 8555511 Joanne Cooney (Immediate Past President & Education Committee - Chair) 4 Robert Street, New Ross, Co. Wexford. Ph: 051 421416 Mobile 087 8180676 Email: joanne@cooneysfuneralhome.com
James Brown Funeral Services Northern Ireland Ltd. 300 Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 1HF Email: jb@james-brown.info Mary Cunniffe Massey Bros Funeral Home Templeogue Village, Dublin 6W Mobile: 085 8010742, Ph: 014 907601 Email: mary.cunniffe@hotmail.com Colm Kieran Kieran Bros. Funeral Directors Kingscourt, Co. Cavan Mobile: 087 6218740 , Ph: 042 9667309 Email: colmkiernan@gmail.com Dermot McCarthy McCarthy’s Funeral Home Gurrane, Banteer, Cork. Ph: 029 56044 Email: dermot@mccarthy-auctioneer.com Mary O’Shea O’Shea’s Funeral Directors New Street, Killarney Ph: 064 6637123 Email: osheatim@eircom.net
Colman Finlay (Membership Officer) Tierney Street, Ardee, Co. Louth Ph: 041 6853603 Email: colman.finlay@finlaygrp.com Graham Gleasure (acting PRO) The Gleasure Funeral Home Matt Talbot Road, Tralee Ph; 066 7123079 fax; 066 7123193 Mobile: 086 2581443 Email: graham@gleasures.ie 20 | FuneralTimes
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This is a sample selection
Goltraí
music for weeping S
ylvia Crawford is one of a small group working to revive and promote the traditional Irish harp and its music. Here Sylvia tells us about the magic of the harp, the national emblem of Ireland. Music has the power to influence our mood and transcend our emotions. The harp has a special significance in this, symbolising a bridge, linking the earth and sky, akin to life and death. In Irish lore, the
24 | FuneralTimes
harp was associated with three different types of music: Geantraí (lively music), Goltraí (music for weeping), and Suantraí (music for sleeping). Goltraí was heralded as the music to enable the expression of grief, to accompany sorrow and loss, or to pay tribute to the life of a departed person. The traditional harp, once a cherished facet of Irish culture, had fallen out of use on the island by the end of the 18th century, marking the death of a rich tradition spanning almost 1000 years. There are many reasons for this, but attempts were made towards the end to the 18th century (and for some years after) to revive the tradition and preserve some of the music of the harp by transcribing directly from the remaining harpers. The notebooks and publications of Edward Bunting are among our most valuable sources to give us a glimpse into this lost world. The old Irish harp was later replaced by the neo-Irish harp, which is now widely played. This new harp was inspired from continental harps, gut strung and very different in its construction, chromatic capabilities, playing technique and sound. But it is the earlier harp, unrivalled in its exquisite beauty of sound and appearance, with its hand carved hollowedout soundbox (often from willow), its resonating metal strings (of brass, silver and possibly gold), and its highly decorated finish, that captured my imagination. I became enthralled by its sheer beauty and mystery, and am now one of a small but
growing number of people working actively to revive and promote this illustrious instrument and its music, largely forgotten for almost 200 years. I have devoted myself to learning and researching how this instrument may have been played and to its music. Unlike modern harps, the early Irish harp rested on the left shoulder, was played using the fingernails, with a complex damping technique, which allows the sonorous bass strings to ring out with a bell-like quality below the intricate, filigree-like highly ornamented treble strings. This is the harp, depicted as the national emblem of Ireland, often seen, but rarely heard. I am available to travel throughout Ireland & NI as a solo harpist, or as a traditional violin player with my duo ‘Sweetbriar’ (harps & fiddle/flute), to provide appropriate, sensitive music for funerals. Please contact me for more information or to discuss your clients’ specific needs. sylvia.crawford71@gmail.com Mobile: 0044 7445 7334 50 FuneralTimes | 25
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T
he graveside is the final part of the funeral, but by no means the least important. It’s the last time the family will see the coffin or casket containing the remains of the deceased. It’s also the site they will return to time and time again, especially in the immediate days following the funeral. This makes it all the more important to have high quality products you can depend on. Here at DJ Mac Neice we have everything you need for the graveside. Our range of coffin and casket pads is designed specifically for Irish burials. These heavy weight pads come in black and purple, with or without cross motif. They also have elasticated straps to fit them tightly to the coffin or casket so you know that they will stay securely in place. Whether there is a headstone in place or not, we have the product to suit your needs. Our grave markers are the perfect option for a new grave awaiting a headstone. We offer two types of wood; the traditional oak or paulownia which is a lightweight wood but no less sturdy or long lasting then oak. Both options have a plate big enough to fit an 8x6 breastplate. Similarly if there is a headstone in place our grave spikes are the perfect way to mark the grave until an inscription can be made on the headstone. Our solid oak grave spikes come in two sizes; 8x6 and 4x2. Both of the sizes have a self-adhesive pad which you can stick your breast plate to, removing the need
for hammer and panel pins. The selfadhesive pad also means that a 6x4 rectangle or oval plate can be used on the 4x2 grave spike. We also have the option of providing a white grave marker and spike should you have the unfortunate task of marking the grave of a child. We stock a large range of breast plates all of which are suitable to be used on our grave markers and grave spikes. They are also suitable to use on coffins, caskets and ashes caskets. We do a variety of sizes and colours, all of which are available in bordered and black edged styles. There is also the option of the material type you require, metal or plastic, both of which are suitable for engraving. For times when you do need to nail a plate on, all our plates have pre drilled holes to make the job that bit easier. We also stock a range of panel pins and conical nails in a variety of colour and sizes. DJ Mac Neice continues a long history in the funeral industry during which the aim has always stayed the same - to provide products of the highest quality at a competitive price while delivering excellent customer service. We look forward to doing business with you in the future. DJ Mac Neice & Co. Ltd., 37a Barrow Road, Dublin Industrial Estate, Glasnevin, Dublin 11. Telephone: 01-8828731 Email:sales@djmacneice.com Web: www.djmacneice.com FuneralTimes | 27
H E N R Y PATO N + C o . L t d Appointed Distributor for Ireland
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New hearse from Fearghas Quinn Clarkes of Baillieborough, Co Cavan receive a new insignia from Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousines
Hearse & Limousines Tel: 028/048 2582 2525 Fax: 028/048 2582 2299
For Sale 2004 Vectra Hearse • Alloys etc. • 43000 miles, • very nice vehicle
13 Garvaghy Road, Portglenone, County Antrim BT44 8EF
Email: fearghas@fearghasquinn.com or visit our website for more information ** Feel free to call us, with no obligation. Rest assured we will not pester you with phone calls or unsolicited visits **
www.fearghasquinn.com
BIE News W
e have experienced a great summer once again, long sunny evenings which I hope you all took advantage of and enjoyed the fabulous weather. It has been a very busy year for the Irish Division. The Committee has met on many occasions throughout the year on matters that have arisen from meetings and from members who wish for us to be more active on their behalf. We have engaged with the Forum on End of Life in Ireland and also with the Design and Dignity project (Irish Hospice Foundation) in relation to guidelines on the removal of the deceased from Nursing Homes and Hospitals which their programme is running, keeping them aware of the needs of our members. In particular, we emphasize that some members operate with a first call stretcher which ought to prove acceptable to the programme in providing transportation as part of the embalming service. As part of their day to day work, freelance embalmers typically arrange transportation to funeral homes or embalming theatres
before the coffin has been chosen. It is hoped that an understanding and a general acceptance on the way firms operate should be brought to the attention of those chairing the relevant forums. We maintain a regular dialogue and vouch to keep members up to date on the outcome. We have also been in contact with the Health Service Executive in relation to new guidelines for the management of deceased persons harbouring infectious diseases and stress that our members should be kept up to date on this issue as we are at the forefront and in the high risk category. A comprehensive document has been published on the issue. We will keep members informed on upcoming matters. A recommendation featured in said document is that all embalming on the chapter 12 and 12.4 indicate that the training should be accredited, currently this is provided by the British Institute of Embalmers. Embalming should only be preformed by a suitably trained and qualified embalmer.
Upcoming Events; Saturday 8th November 2014 One day Educational Session & Training Programme
W
e are delighted to invite all members to a meeting that will take place on Saturday 8th November, 2014 at John & Mary Hawes Funeral Home, Charleville, Co. Cork. The educational session will commence at 9.30am and guest speakers from The Design & Dignity project will make a presentation. Funeral supplies companies will also showcase their products and Glyn Tallon from Tallon Mortuary 30 | FuneralTimes
Specialists will be providing the afternoon educational session. We hope that all members will avail of this educational day which is free of charge. We would ask all members to do their best to attend and more information will be provided to members in the minutes. The day will be beneficial to us all.
Aidan Walsh
Mr. Hans Clyde - (Chairman of the Northern Ireland Division) and Mr Graeme Easton (National President) presenting a certificate to Sanita Lemesa and Aidan Walsh (Chairman of the Irish Division)
Mr Hans Clyde (Chairman of the Northern Division), Mr Graeme Easton (National President) and Fionan Tallon BIE presenting Marion Power with her certificate  and Aidan Walsh (Chairman Of Irish Division)
Mr. Graeme Easton presenting Sanita Lemesa with her certificate FuneralTimes | 31
Fountain National Academy of Professional Embalming Skills Conference 2014 Margaret Davis M.B.I.E. (N.Ireland Division) sent Funeral Times this report on The Fountain National Academy 3rd Biennial International Embalming and Reconstruction Surgery Conference at The Double Tree Hotel, Springfield, Missouri held from July 31st to August 3rd.
T
he Conference theme was “Dedicated to the Director & Embalmer - Kentucky). Shane Value of Open Casket Viewing”. lost his daughter of 24 years in a traumatic fashion and following this personal A group of Embalmers from a number experience as a father, began to realise the of American States and other countries true importance and value of viewing the including Ireland joined for an extensive body and funeral rituals. Shane is dedicated programme of education. to educating on the value of viewing. Glyn Tallon M.B.I.E. (Irish Division) Mr John. P. (Jack) Adams (Dodge attended as a Guest Speaker and delivered Company Representative - Illinois) was two excellent presentations over the a Distinguished Guest of Honour. Jack course of four days on “How to Embalm Adams has 50 years experience in funeral and Reconstruct Decomposed Cases” and services and has presented numerous “Reconstructing Trauma Cases”. embalming seminars, both throughout Mr Vernie Fountain (Founder of the United States and internationally. Mr Fountain National Academy) presented Adams has also written many professional “The Embalming and Reconstruction articles, including 25 years worth of of Burns Cases”, “Techniques to Prevent Leakage”, “Embalming the Obese Case” and a very inspirational talk on the value of an open casket for grieving families. Other guest speakers attending included Karl Wenzel and Jacquelyn S. Taylor (Dodge Company, U.S.A.), Alain Koninckx (Namur University, Belgium), Stephen Labrash (University of Hawaii), and Don Kellerhall (Herberger’s Elk Grove Funeral Chapel, California). An emotional presentation was delivered Distinguished guests, guest speakers and attendees of the by Shane Ritchie (Funeral conference
32 | FuneralTimes
technical articles for the Dodge Magazine. Attendees were provided with a number of useful tips and techniques for various embalming cases. Mr Todd Van Beck (General Manager of the Forrest Hill Funeral Home, Memphis, Tennessee) was also a Distinguished Guest of Honour. Mr Van Beck has operated in funeral services for 46 years and is a noted author and speaker on topics ranging from embalming techniques, business practices and psychology of grief, having lectured internationally (including Ireland). Mr Van Beck delivered a thought provoking presentation entitled “No Matter What, Seeing is Believing” which was a journey into the psychology of establishing the reality of death, which he deemed as “The Cornerstone of Funeral Service”. An Educational Experience Make-Up/ Cosmetic Class entitiled “ReanimationBringing the Deceased back to a more life -like appearance” was presented by twotime Emmy award winner Dean Jones (a Hollywood make-up/special effects artist) on Saturday evening.
The conference included a number of exhibitor stands and presentations. The Distinguished Professional Service Award Medallions were awarded to three embalmers from the U.S.A. in recognition of their exceptional dedication to the embalming profession, reconstructive surgery and viewing of the deceased and sharing their knowledge and skills with embalmers around the world. Over the course of the conference, there was fun, fellowship and networking with old and new friends and colleagues. This included a dinner buffet on Friday evening and a live auction to benefit the F.N.A. Scholarship Programme for Embalming Education. There was also a tour of the F.N.A. Training Facility. It was undoubtedly a unique and inspirational educational experience for all attendees, who have an evident commitment and dedication to the immeasurable value of an open casket and whose embalming and reconstructive surgery skills have touched the lives of countless grieving families.
The Northern Ireland Division of The National Association of Funeral Directors (N.A.F.D.) The British Institute of Embalmers (B.I.E.) The British Institute of Funeral Directors (B.I.F.D.) Cordially invites you to join with them for their Annual Dinner and Social Evening 2014
on Friday 17th October 2014 at The Dunsilly Hotel
20 Dunsilly Road, Antrim BT41 2JH
Carvery Dinner 7.30pm Booking and Payment can be made by contacting: Mr Marshall Lindsay M.B.I.E., Dip F.D. 4 Beechgrove, Kilrea, Replies on or before 3rd October 2014 Co. Londonderry, BT51 5RW Dress Code: Dark Lounge Suits Tel: 028 29 540945 Ticket Cost - £25.00 per person Email: marshalllindsay4@gmail.com FuneralTimes | 33
List of BIE Officers and appointed representatives for 2013/2014 National President: Graeme Easton Scottish Division Imm. Past President: Scott Grigsby R.A. Adams Ltd 117 High Street, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 7QA Mobile: 01268 743102 National PRO & National General Secretary: Mrs Karen Caney FBIE White Meadow Cottage, Brailsford, Derby DE6 3DA Tel: 01332 349035(BIE) Mobile: 07786 432014 karencaney@btopenworld.com National Treasurer: Michael Liddle MBIE 10 Yew Tree Close, Silsoe MK45 4EQ Business Tel: 01582 490005 Home Tel: 01525 860117 michael@silsloe.wanadoo.co.uk Editor: Gwen Schofield MBIE 9 Seymour Walk, Meltham, Holmfirth HD9 4BP Home Tel: 01484 851994 Mobile: 07778 279100 gwen.schofield@ntlworld.com Master Fellow: Ken Morgan FBIE “Evergreens”, 36 Coley Road, Little Haywood, Stafford ST18 0UW Home Tel: 01889 881223 Business Tel: 01902 878425 Mobile: 07970 831760 k.m.morgan@virgin.net
Student Liaison Officer: Timothy Cain MBIE Hillcrest, 38 Main Street, Ashby de la Launde LN4 3JG Home Tel: 01526 321396 jackie@lymn.co.uk
Irish Division National Council Rep & Secretary: Ms Barbara Fowley MBIE Killakee, Rathfarnham Dublin 16 Mobile: 086 191 1022 Chairperson: Aidan Walsh Cappoquin, Co. Waterford Mobile: 00353 87 2847831 Vice Chairperson and National Council Representative: Mr John Hawe MBIE 12 Meadow Vale, Smith’s Road, Charleville, Co. Cork Home Tel: 00353 6389280 Mobile: 087 6390087 jmhawe@eircom.net National Education Representative: Glyn Tallon Mortuary Specialist 14 Academy Street Navan Co Meath Tel:046 9029134 Mobile: 086 826 8876 Treasurer: Mrs A O’Reilly MBIE Church Street, Newmarket, Co. Cork Telephone: 029 60142 annaoreilly4@hotmail.com Past Chairman: Mr Ger O’Sullivan MBIE Mobile: 086 021 5075
34 | FuneralTimes
Northern Ireland Division Chairman A.H. (Hans) Clyde MBIE Woodbank Lodge, 38 Mettican Road, Garvagh, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT51 5HS Telephone: 028 29 558231 clyde001@btinternet.com Vice Chairman Michael Og McKiernan MBIE 51 Agivey Road, Kilrea, Co. Londonderry BT51 5UU Mobile: 07515 746541 Michael-ogmckiernan@hotmail.co.uk Secretary Margaret Davis MBIE 4 Back Road, Cargycreevy, Lisburn BT27 6TL Mobile: 07841 100249 Margaretdavis4@me.com Treasurer Andrew McMullan MBIE 22 High Street, Ballymoney, Co. Antrim BT53 6AQ Andrew@mcmullanfuneral.com 1st National Council Representative Ellison Sloan MBIE Telephone: 02838 336175 poots@fsni.info 2nd National Council Representative Marshall Lindsay MBIE 4 Beechgrove, Kilrea, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT51 5RW Telephone: 028 29 540945 marshalllindsay4@gmail.com 1st National Educational Committee Representative Pat Harley MBIE 67 Creggan Road, Londonderry BT48 9DA Mobile: 077128 99137 Phschoolofembalming@hotmail.com
We are looking to acquire funeral businesses in Ireland Dignity would like to talk to you if you are thinking of selling your business. Why choose Dignity? 1. We are funeral people - it’s all we do. We are obsessive about the standard of service we offer families we and 99% of our clients say that we met or exceeded their expectations. 2. You will deal directly with a main board director who has complete authority to agree all terms. In other words you will be dealing principal to principal. The result is a quick and simple transaction. 3. We respect Irish funeral culture and traditions and since 2008 operate from a number of locations, including Belfast, Bangor, Newtownards, Carrickfergus and Newtownabbey. 4. We have a proven track record of investing in what were previously independent businesses and securing the future of employees and former owners, many of whom stay with us in a consultancy or management role. The result is that local families continue to receive the highest standard of service for generations to come.
“Dignity has honoured every promise made to us when they bought Kirkwood’s.” DAVID RICE
Area Manager and former manager of Kirkwood Funeral Directors, Belfast & Newtownards Please call Andrew Davies, Operations Director or Mike McCollum, Chief Executive. Between us we have over 50 year’s funeral experience and will be delighted to deal with you in the strictest confidence without any obligation.
Contact Mike McCollum, Chief Executive or Andrew Davies Operations Director: Dignity plc, 4 King Edwards Court King Edwards Square, Sutton Coldfield B73 6AP Email: mike.mccollum@dignityuk.co.uk | andrew.davies@dignityuk.co.uk Telephone: 0121 354 1557 | www.dignityfunerals.co.uk FuneralTimes | 35
(ROI 048)
CPL Funeral Supplies are distributors for all FERNO products and systems 36 | FuneralTimes
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38 | FuneralTimes
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FuneralTimes | 39
Continuing education and the value of viewing Embalmers and speakers from all over the globe, including the U.S., Ireland, Belgium and Canada, came together for a highly educational seminar to share tips and techniques of the trade and to focus on their dedication to the value of an open casket/coffin. Glyn Tallon reports from Springfield, Missouri
T
he 3rd Biennial International Embalming and Reconstructive Surgery Conference, hosted by the Fountain National Academy (FNA), was held in Springfield, Missouri, USA on July 31 through August 3, 2014. The group of dedicated embalmers in attendance saw the importance of further educating themselves in our profession and took this conference as an opportunity not
only to continue learning, but to network with fellow colleagues worldwide. Throughout the four days, speakers presented a wide variety of tips, techniques and educational information, particularly touching on advanced embalming and reconstructive techniques, to help teach those in attendance and further build their confidence in preserving the value of
Tallon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming Qualify for membership of an internationally recognised embalming qualification (BIE) at your own pace The ‘Tallon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming’ offers both Distance Learning and attended courses leading to membership of the British Institute of Embalmers The ‘Tallon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming’ offer students and registered embalmers the highest standards of teaching and practice in a supportive environment, with full use of our training facility. For further information and to discuss how this course might work for you contact:
Glyn Tallon - 14 Academy Street, Navan, Co. Meath Mobile: 086 826 8876 Web: www.tallonmortuaryspecialists.com / Email: info@tallonmortuaryspecialists.com 40 | FuneralTimes
embalming, restoration and open casket/ coffin viewing to the families they serve. Each attendee not only had the opportunity to expand their knowledge, they also had the chance to speak one-on-one and socialize with each speaker and fellow embalmers during breaks between classes, as well as most evenings when all would come together for dinner, beverages and entertainment. The main event held this year was a live auction of items, graciously donated by colleagues and friends throughout the industry, which brought in nearly $7,200. These funds were placed into an existing scholarship fund by the FNA, open to assist embalmers from around the world to attend any educational programme throughout the U.S. focusing on embalming and restorative techniques. This conference is an example of just one of MANY worldwide that allows embalmers, from beginner to advanced, to continue to learn, further educate themselves, and to build their confidence with new techniques in their embalming and restoration work.
The class group attendees
Glyn Tallon speaking at the conference
FuneralTimes | 41
Through our own personal experience we received the inspiration to set up Treasured Keepsakes, to give people a wide variety of options upon a loved one’s passing should they choose to keep a lock of hair, cremated remains, a piece of jewellery, a photograph or anything that is a personal reminder of their loved one in a small keepsake, keepsake pendant or urn. Funeral directors we are currently working with have tailored our service to suit their needs. We have two options of how our service can work for you. If you wish you can buy our products from us at a wholesale price and sell them directly to your clients. Alternatively we can offer this service to your clients directly. We would hope that by recommending our service we will enhance and add value to your business at no extra cost to you.
For more information contact us or visit our website Tel: 01 825 4579 From NI: 00353 1 825 4579 info@treasuredkeepsakes.ie www.treasuredkeepsakes.ie
Frequently asked Civil Funeral questions Civil Funeral Celebrant Mary Elizabeth Dillon is long established in the business and carries out ceremonies across the country. Funeral Times asked her a few questions about herself and what she does. How did you get started in the business? A friend of mind in Dublin had a sister-inlaw who died suddenly. The lady was quiet, reclusive and not a church goer and her family did not want a traditional funeral. My friend rang me, outlined the situation and asked me for help. I suggested that they do their own funeral along the lines of civil funerals I had seen when I lived in England. I went up to Dublin, sat down with the family and organized the service. When I asked who was going to deliver the service they all looked at me and that was it. I delivered the service in Mount Jerome and received glowing praise from both the mourners and the undertaker. I decided to look into the possibilities of doing more services and here I am seven years later busy around the country, never having looked back. What’s the hardest part of the service? If there are children involved, maybe a parent has died and they are there, very young children who are not really aware of what is happening. I did a service for a man in his mid thirties who had been killed in a road traffic accident. He had three children, the youngest being only four and standing at the podium delivering that service and looking at those little faces was very sad and I found it difficult to switch off afterwards.
How do you cope with all the sadness and grief ? I live a very full and varied life outside of my work. Seeing so much sadness has given me a strong appreciation of life and a zest for living my life to the full. I have friends all around the country and visit them all the time, spending a lot of time in coffee shops and in the occasional pub! Does anything ever go wrong? I was delivering a service in Newland Cross and invited a brother of the deceased up to speak to start off the service, he started off ok but after about a minute he moved his hand and pressed on the button that lowers the coffin into the plinth. The coffin descended, the mourners gasped and looked at me who could do nothing and the speaker continued on oblivious. What could we do but carry on regardless with the service and when we got to the last piece of music I announced that this is when the coffin should have lowered but things had happened a bit sooner than expected. What do you enjoy the most? Without a doubt, the chat and the time spent with the funeral directors, their staff and the crematorium staff. They are a great bunch of people and they make my life so much easier. I wouldn’t want to work with anybody else.
Civil Funerals Ireland Simple, unique, personal funeral services
• An alternative to the traditional • Celebrating Life • Reflecting the wishes and beliefs of the deceased and their loved ones • Provides an opportunity to pay a fitting tribute • Any suitable venue can be used
Mary Elizabeth Dillon is available between 9am - 11pm 7 days a week Tel ROI: 053 938 9089 / Mobile: 087 957 4476 Email: info@civilfuneralsireland.com
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If your business is in providing funeral products to the Ireland and UK market the Funeral Times Trade Show Ireland 速 2015 is a must for your sales campaign. There is a large range of space options and exhibition areas to choose from no matter the size of your business.
National Association of Funeral Directors Just another trade association?
think again. We are listened to The largest funeral sector trade association, representing almost 3,700 funeral homes 80% of UK funeral directors. Our size gives us a respected voice at the highest levels of Government.
We are influential We campaign hard on issues that could affect the sector and are as focused on the needs of our 2,000 small, independent member firms as on those of our larger members.
We’re independent Independent of any single funding body or organisation, we work hard to balance the views and needs of all our members, irrespective of size.
We promote high standards The NAFD Code of practice is client-facing and a guarantee of quality of service.
We are the voice of the profession We bring the funeral service industry together to speak with one voice in the media, to Government and to the general public, your clients.
The Best benefits package in the industry, By far Including ÂŁ5million professional indemnity cover for each member company; a suite of free business helplines and collective buying power, saving our members thousands of pounds every year.
We have an eye on the future We keep members abreast of changes likely to affect their business, creating progressive partnerships which also open up opportunities for them.
We are the association for the funeral sector. We care about our members, become one today. If you would like to know more about how we can support your business or would like to join the NAFD, visit our website www.nafd.org.uk or call Su on
0121 711 1343 Ext 20 national association of funeral directors The voice of the profession 618 Warwick Road, Solihull, West Midlands, B91 1AA Tel: 0121 711 1343 email: info@nafd.org.uk
Visit our award winning website at
www.nafd.org
46 | FuneralTimes
NAFD News The NAFD meets with Department for Work & Pensions Minister to discuss Social Fund I
n July, representatives from the National Association of Funeral Directors met with the Rt. Hon. Steve Webb MP, the Minister at the Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) responsible for the Social Fund. The meeting formed part of the Association’s ongoing Parliamentary campaigning to improve the experience of the bereaved and trading conditions for funeral businesses. NAFD Chief Executive Officer, Alan Slater, and Nigel Lymn Rose, member of the All Party Parliamentary Funerals and Bereavement Group at Westminster, outlined to the Minister the continuing decline in the ability to pay for a simple funeral from the Social Fund, and stated that there was no evidence that the introduction of Budgeting Loans to pay for funerals had helped to arrest this decline. The meeting allowed the NAFD to highlight Paul Maynard MP’s call for “other funeral expenses” to be index linked to inflation. The NAFD also called for the Minister/ Secular Officiant’s fee to be removed from “other funeral expenses” and set out a number of steps that should be taken by the Government to increase transparency and improve processing of Social Fund applications, as follows:1. the DWP should collate more data on the Social Fund. This needs to show the amount paid by the DWP for “other funeral expenses” and the rising Local Authority charges. It should also document the number of Budgeting Loans awarded to pay for funerals. Currently, the DWP does not collect this information; 2. assess claims before the final invoice has been submitted. The NAFD called for the DWP to introduce a two-stage process
of assessing a claimant’s application. By approving or rejecting an application quickly, the claimant will know whether they will receive funding from the Government before a funeral is held. If a claim is successful, NAFD members will then know whether disbursements will be paid; 3. the DWP should hold the bank details of funeral firms on file. This would stop the Balham processing centre making repeated requests for this information due to “data protection” reasons. The Minister agreed to examine what steps could be taken to collect more data on Social Fund funeral payments, and also offered to see how the processing of claims could be changed to bring faster clarity to applicants as to whether or not they will receive an award from the Social Fund. The Minister also agreed to examine what could be done to prevent multiple calls from Balham regarding bank details. Alan Slater said of the meeting: “Our meeting with Steve Webb was an important step in communicating our concerns and identifying actions that the DWP should take. The provision of more information will help everyone understand the huge increases in Local Authority charges and confirm our belief that Budgeting Loans are failing to deliver FuneralTimes | 47
any support. Introducing a quicker decisionmaking route so that applicants know whether or not their claim will be successful would also be a huge step forward, and eliminating the multiple requests for bank details to our members will help improve efficiency.
“Overall, we know that Government budgets are severely constrained but the NAFD will continue with its campaign to secure an increase in the amount available for “other funeral expenses” with index linking to inflation as the first step.”
Keith Peacock appointed as Chairman of the NAFD Board of Examiners
K
eith Peacock of Walter C Parson Independent Funeral Directors in Plymouth has been appointed Chairman of the NAFD Board of Examiners, replacing Peter Gregory who recently stood down after five years in the role. Keith, who started as an assistant embalmer, has more than 20 years’ experience in the sector having fallen into the profession after graduating in Biological Sciences but then spotting an advertisement for a funeral director’s assistant in the local newspaper. Enrolment numbers are at an all-time high for both the NAFD’s Diploma in Funeral Arranging & Administration and Diploma in Funeral Directing – as well as the online Funeral Awareness Training course for new starters and those who hope to build a career in the funeral profession. Keith’s challenge is to develop the team of examiners, from within the sector, which works hard to ensure the NAFD’s Diplomas, backed by Birmingham City University and the Open College Network, remain the benchmark for professional development within the funeral sector.
NAFD Energy Club supplier picks up Customer Service awards
T
he operator of the highly popular NAFD Energy Club, LSI Utility Brokers, has been recognised for its outstanding customer service at The Energy Live Consultancy Awards 2014 (TELCA). The NAFD’s Energy Club has already saved many members thousands of pounds on their energy bills. In fact, the majority have covered
48 | FuneralTimes
their cost of subscription to the Association by simply getting in touch and taking advantage of the NAFD Energy Club’s buying power. The Energy Club recently saved the NAFD’s own National Office more than £1,700 a year on its own energy bills and these kinds of savings are also being enjoyed by funeral businesses right across the UK.
NAFD Membership now worth up to four times the annual subscription* T
he National Association of Funeral Directors has always offered the best benefits package by far within the industry, but now those benefits have been proven to offer a significant financial advantage to members - particularly smaller independent firms - which can make massive savings in essential business operating costs - a figure which dwarfs the costs of the NAFD membership subscription. The headline benefits include AUTOMATIC FREE £5m professional indemnity cover for each funeral firm member – which is unique in the industry. To secure this professional indemnity insurance, which is essential for all funeral firms, would cost £1,500 a year if it was purchased directly. It costs NAFD members nothing. Other cost savings include:• AUTOMATIC FREE legal cover in respect of employment claims up to £150,000 • AUTOMATIC FREE legal cover in respect of health and safety prosecution up to £150,000 • AUTOMATIC FREE financial support to cover HMRC and VAT investigations up to £75,000 • AUTOMATIC access to a range of FREE business support helplines, including financial, legal and employment law, HR & repatriation • FREE PR Handbook and helpline • Access to the NAFD Energy Club – saving money on your business energy bills • Access to the NAFD Fast Track Debt recovery service • Outstanding professional qualifications, backed by respected academic bodies • A robust, client-facing Code of Practice and independent Funeral Arbitration Scheme • Perfect Choice funeral plans, with guaranteed returns and the ability to set your own price • Exclusive, negotiated rates on everything from website design and new vehicles to telecoms • Lowest card payment rates in the sector • Award-winning monthly magazine, Funeral Director Monthly and monthly e-newsletter As well as these operational business benefits, the NAFD’s size gives the Association a respected voice at the highest levels of Government, with the media and to your clients. The NAFD is independent of any single funding body and campaigns on issues affecting all members equally. Alan Slater, Chief Executive Officer of the NAFD said: “I urge all members to ensure they are taking full advantage of the financial benefits of membership as these can save them thousands and thousands of pounds in the costs of running their businesses. “What’s more, our members remain fully independent and able to operate their businesses without any constraints placed upon them by us as a trade association other than to comply with the Code of Practice to ensure that NAFD membership continues to stand as a kite mark of quality to bereaved families. We don’t sell to our members, we support them and I genuinely believe that NAFD members are stronger as a result of being associated with the NAFD, both collectively as a profession and individually as businesses.” * Source: based on a funeral home with one additional branch office and a turnover of up to £500,000 per annum. FuneralTimes | 49
NAFD’s Perfect Choice Funeral Plans selected to train financial advisors at the Later Life Academy
P
erfect Choice Funeral Plans has been selected as the funeral plan “Product Ambassador” by the Later Life Academy. The Academy is a commercial and training organisation that has been set up to raise standards and offer support to professional advisors who specialise in providing advice on financial matters to the growing segment of the population that is either approaching retirement or already retired. The Academy provides structured learning and support services to a range of professional advisors, including independent financial advisors, mortgage advisors as well as solicitors
and other legal specialists to enable them to fully meet the needs of older clients through the provision of high quality advice supported by sound recommendations. Perfect Choice Funeral Plans is now developing the necessary training materials to raise awareness of the funeral planning industry and the different product models that can be accessed by advisors. The Academy is aware that most funeral plans operate outside a full regulatory regime and that it is essential that advisors are fully equipped to advise on funeral plans without creating undue risks for their clients.
T
he National Association of Funeral Directors exists to support funeral businesses, of all sizes, across the UK. We are an independent voice representing the interests of more than 80% of UK funeral homes. Our members benefit equally from our strength of voice which gives us access to the highest levels of government and enables us to offer the most valuable benefits package in the sector. Join us today and start benefitting from our strength by Association. Call Su Lewis on +44 121 713 1134 or email su@nafd.org.uk
Hearse & Limousines Tel: 028/048 2582 2525 Fax: 028/048 2582 2299
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Frank Keogh and Sons - the epitome of a small business with big ideas? N
ow operational for over 6 years, we believe we know what we are about. Despite having devoted upwards of 30 years service in the funeral business, being indebted to Carnegies of Monkstown and Fanagans of Dublin for the invaluable experience, it is important to realise that we may never ‘know it all’, nor truth be told aspire to with any realistic conviction. We must strive to continue to learn constantly and in earnest. This holds especially true given the abundance of changes which have become prevalent within the funeral business through the past three decades. Complementing the traditional range of varied funerary services, we specialize in the collection of loved ones in a markedly discreet and respectful manner on behalf of funeral directors acting upon the wishes of bereaved families.
Utilising our professional service enables funeral directors to devote their full attention to a particular family’s needs whilst we carry out our duties quietly in the background to relocate the deceased to the specified funeral home. Whether it be at home or abroad, we pride ourselves in arranging quick collection whilst striving to maintain a dignified nature, simultaneously fulfilling all required paper work and necessary legal documentation. I could go on and on however I rest assured that those who have used Frank Keogh and Sons (most Funeral Directors in Dublin and Wicklow) know what to expect. Allow me to finish by saying that since our decision to begin advertising in Funeral Times, business has increased significantly and we both hope and have full confidence that this trend will continue. Thank you Ruth and team.
New Brochure Request your copy now
Tel: 0845 2574305 Web: www.brookyork.com Email: info@brookyork.com
From Bloomsday to... By Mattie Lennon
U
nlike Oliver and Noah in Oliver Twist I happen to believe that there is humour even in funeral parlours. So I decided to interview a few Funeral Directors and ask them for anecdotes. I started with an Undertaker in west Wicklow who would prefer to remain anonymous. I think he was taking mental measurements of me as we talked and I can’t verify the veracity of his contribution but here it is, “ He had died at 93. He was lying on the slab ready for embalming. Suddenly he bolted upright and without opening his eyes he began to utter this story ‘I was in the GPO with Pearse in 1916. I fought with the Anti-Treaty side in twenty two. I told them in thirty seven if they voted for the Constitution they’d be voting for their own downfall.’ He lay back down on the slab. And they say dead men tell no tales.” Mary Elizabeth Dillon of Civil Funerals Ireland told me, “I organised a civil funeral for a family in North Dublin, an elderly woman had died and her husband was organising the funeral. On the day of the service all went well and afterwards the man asked me if I would like to come along to the refreshments. I say no, unfortunately I had to attend at another funeral later in the day. ‘Oh, he said, that’s a shame, you’ll miss the fight!’” So that wasn’t a very “civil” funeral! A Mortician in Pecaya, Venezuela has a story which indicates that nothing should be wasted, even a grave. According to his story, “In 1971, this man had been pronounced dead by a doctor. But as the first shovelfuls of earth were being flung on the coffin, the unconscious victim, who had suffered a non-fatal heart attack, came to, pushed open the lid of his coffin and scrambled out of the hole screaming and 52 | FuneralTimes
cursing. Sadly, his mother-in-law who was standing by the side of the grave, promptly dropped dead of shock. She was later buried in the grave intended for her sonin-law after other doctors made sure she was really, really dead.” My pen was faltering at this point when I learned that Gus Nichols, Managing Director of Nichols Undertakers, Dublin, and his cousin Paula Howard have written Past Nichols, The Undertakers. This book is a family history of the six generations of Nichols who have been in the Undertaking business since 1814 and much more besides. The 1798 rebellion, 1916, the War of Independence and the Civil War are all covered. When you see chapter headings like, The Old Order Changeth, and Local to Global you know that this is not just a local history. There is plenty of humour also. David Norris says in the Foreword, “Despite the nature of the business there is nothing
morbid about this book ...” He then goes on to set the tone with a story from his own family about one of his ancestors who had a nagging wife, “ ... eventually, to the husbands relief, she died. The undertakers had difficulty getting the coffin down a winding staircase .... and when they banged it against the wall on their descent, knocking was heard. The coffin lid opened and the cantankerous woman lived for another 10 years, to the great inconvenience of her spouse. At last she died once more. She was re-coffined and as they came down the staircase her husband was heard to mutter ‘Mind the corner, boys’ “. Later in the book Gus Nichols tells a somewhat similar story from Saint Catherine’s Parish in 1740 but I won’t spoil it for you. The formidable Archbishop of Dublin John Charles McQuaid had a very distinctive black saloon with blacked-inwindows. As it passed through the streets of Dublin people would stop and genuflect. When the time came to sell the car it was bought by Edward Nichols as it was a suitable car for funerals. Edward had married one Sarah Gilbertson from Hertfordshire. When Sarah’s parents, Dr. Michael and Jean Gilberston, were paying their first ever visit to Ireland Edward (who was famous for his sense of humour and a creator of everlasting nicknames) dispatched the Archbishop’s car with liveried driver to Dublin airport to collect them. They were impressed. As they travelled through Whitehall and Drumcondra they noticed people making the sign of the Cross as they passed. Every time they stopped people would genuflect. When the car pulled up outside J & C Nichols in Lombard Street,
Gus Nichols and Paula Howard
Pa s t Nichols
t h e Un d erta k er s Six Generations of a Dublin Fa mily Business
1814 - 2014
Doctor Michael Gilbertson was heard to say, Jeanie darling, where on earth are we? Driver, take us back to the airport man ...” Edward Nichols came out and listened to their comments about eccentricities of the natives but he wasn’t the type of man to fill them in on the details. Ninety years after the foundation of the business it was immortalised when the fictional Leopold Bloom, ... “walked soberly, past Windmill Lane ... crossed Townsend Street ... past Nichols’ the undertaker’s.” This book is not just a definitive history of a family of undertakers; it is an entertaining and informative account of life (and death) in Dublin in the rare oul times. Buy it.
“I organised a civil funeral for a family in North Dublin, an elderly woman had died and her husband was organising the funeral. On the day of the service all went well and afterwards the man asked me if I would like to come along to the refreshments. I say no, unfortunately I had to attend at another funeral later in the day. ‘Oh, he said, that’s a shame, you’ll miss the fight!’” So that wasn’t a very “civil” funeral! 53 FuneralTimes || 53 FuneralTimes
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Tips for getting more traffic to your blogs and social media sites Jennifer Muldowney continues her article, giving advice to Irish funeral directors on how to use social media. Here Jennifer gives us the basic do’s and don’ts for promoting our businesses – and it’s not as complicated as you might imagine.
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ecent changes to Facebook ‘pages’ has caused some serious discussions online and off. Many people jumped onto the Facebook train because it was free and companies could promote their wares organically without paying for any advertising. The only required investment was knowhow and time. Now with less than 10% of the audience you spent years building up likely to view your posts, is the final death knell tolling for Facebook and businesses? Not with a growing 1.23 BILLION ACTIVE users worldwide. including over 70% of the baby boomer market. How then do you cost effectively drive more traffic to your blog or social media sites (and thus website)? Here’s how: • Ask questions and engage with your ‘fans’ – people love to talk so ask for reviews, comments, opinions and stories. • Let people brag – people love talking about themselves so give them the opportunity! • Find your voice – who are you? What do you do? How do you talk to your clients? Are you quiet and respectful or loud and boisterous? Do you like golf? Become a relatable person. People buy from people. • Engage with others in the industry and guest post – Use LinkedIn and Twitter, they are great for interacting with fellow industry providers but Facebook can also be great. Comment, Like and Share others’ content and they will reciprocate. Give honest feedback and ask questions and this will drive people back to your page. Guest blog on other people’s blogs – for example if you love golf and there is a golf blog you are interested in, offer to guest blog. • Incorporate it into your marketing plan, let
your offline users know you are online. Your digital communications strategy should be a part of your holistic marketing plan. Tell the world where to find you online – include it on all your offline material – flyers, letters, posters, and business cards and include it on your email signature. Add an extra service like putting your obituaries onto Facebook so people can share the information and with it, your page information! • Design – Make your blog and Facebook page brand focused. Have a great cover or header image. Design these as you would or did your website because they are your online brand ambassadors – think of them as interactive websites. • Know WHO you are talking to and what they want to hear – KNOW your audience – what’s the age bracket, what do they like to read or see online? Don’t forget the social part of SOCIAL media. • Maintenance – Whatever you do or don’t decide to do online, maintain what you DO do! There is nothing more destructive than a static out of date blog or Facebook page – it reads ‘Gone Out of Business’. Also are you online but don’t know it yet? Maybe someone created something by accident. Its worth a search and rectify immediately. • Tell your stories, your company stories, your customer’s stories, your staff stories and your funeral home stories. How did your business begin, where is it going, did it go through any difficult times, successes or any awards won? Share them! • Have you had any famous clients, any wonderful lives lived that the family wouldn’t mind having celebrated online? Tell them, We ALL love a good story. So go forth and tell yours! FuneralTimes | 55
saif.org.uk
Protecting the Independent Funeral Director for 25 years Promoting and protecting your independent interests
Established in 1989, SAIF is committed to promoting and protecting the traditions, values and care offered by independent funeral directors. Like you, we are passionate about independence, that is why we were formed 25 years ago and, although the funeral profession has changed over the years, our aims remain the same – to listen to you, to represent you and to assist you.
As a member of SAIF, we can offer you cost savings, training, education, member benefits and practical advice and information that can help and grow your business in today’s competitive funeral profession.
To learn more, visit our website at saif.org.uk or call us on 0845 230 677 and let us protect and help you.
SAIF news ... SAIF news ... SAIF is delighted to announce a new initiative to support the work of the NHS Organ Donor Register
S
AIF is extending the range of literature available to members with the launch of the SAIF supported Organ Donation leaflet. SAIF Executive Chairman Alun Tucker explains, “What better legacy is there than the gift of life? Many people believe in organ donation, but unless they join the NHS Organ Donor Register, their families may be unaware that they want to be a donor. SAIF is eager to help promote the message as widely as possible and I know that we can count on our members to support our initiative.” Claire Dolling, senior partnership development officer at NHS Blood and Transplant comments, “Around three people die every day in need of an organ transplant. A significant barrier preventing patients from getting the transplant they so desperately need is the fact that four out of ten families say no to donation when a loved one dies in circumstances when they could donate their organs. “We welcome all opportunities to increase awareness of organ and tissue donation and thank SAIF for backing our campaign.
We hope it will encourage SAIF members to join the register themselves and spell out their decision to donate with loved ones, as well as give members the information they need to promote organ donation to others.” Only around 5,000 people die in the UK each year in circumstances where they can donate their organs. Families are more likely to agree to donation when they know what their loved one wanted. Almost anyone can be considered as a tissue donor, so people are more likely to become a tissue donor than an organ donor. Donated tissue such as skin, bones and eyes can save or dramatically improve the lives of many people suffering from illness or injury. Anyone wishing to sign the Organ Donor Register in Northern Ireland can do so at www.organdonationni.info
Debt Relief Order (DRO) Update on Department The DRO initiative, set up in 2009 of Works and Pensions to help the most vulnerable people get debt relief, has proved to be a significant (DWP) problem for Funeral Directors who have been included in such orders, consequently seeing accounts written off. Have you been included in such an order? Please contact linda@saif.org.uk telephone 0845 230 6777 and help build our case against funerals being part of such an order.
We are pleased to report that Alun Tucker (SAIF Executive Chairman) recently met with Dilwyn Clements (Head of Social Fund & Secondary Benefits at the DWP) at which he raised several issues of concern to Funeral Directors. We will of course update members with any updates as and when received.
FuneralTimes | 57
SAIF Anniversary Ebola Virus S
AIF are this year, celebrating 25 years of supporting and promoting the Independent and are proud to have achieved this milestone. Why don’t you join SAIF officers, Executive and other guests at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Stansted, on Saturday 20th September for dinner and, what promises to be, a night not to be missed. Top entertainment has been booked to ensure that this will be one of SAIF’s best events, so don’t miss out. Due to space limitation, we advise early booking to avoid disappointment so please contact SAIF Business Centre to reserve your place now. Book your accommodation direct with the Radisson Blu Hotel Tel: 01279 661 012 (quote SAIF to ensure you receive the discounted rates).
Whilst we are hopeful that this dreaded illness will not get to these shores, it was thought an update on procedure for dealing with an infected deceased would prove beneficial. HSE and BIE guidelines quite clearly state: A body bag is essential, no viewing, no embalming and no hygienic preparation. This is a highly infectious decease and the utmost care and protection should be executed at all times. HSE website www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/ web01.pdf
SAIF Education Day Wednesday 5th November 2014 This is a very full day which will include guest speakers on topical subjects, an exhibition from SAIF Associate members and student presentations from the IFD College. SAIF members £30 Non-SAIF members £40 IFD College Students £10 (Inclusive of morning refreshments, lunch and afternoon tea/coffee)
10:00am - 4:00pm Leicester Tigers Rugby Club, Welford Road, Leicester LE2 7TR Confirmed speakers to date include: Ann Chalmers - Chief Executive, Child Bereavement UK Elaine Shahabeddin - Assistant Head, Health Professional Unit, Preston’s College Sally Thomas - Policy & Campaigns Officer, National Aids Trust Catherine Betley - Director of Bereavement Care & Education at Centre for the Grief Journey For more information and for reservations please contact SAIF Business Centre today. 58 | FuneralTimes
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‘Past Nichols’ proves a success Gus Nichols comments on the funeral industry
I
would like to use these opening sentences to thank the numerous people who have paid the company so many compliments about our book – Past Nichols the Undertakers. The reaction from so many of you has been overwhelming, and bar one distant relative of mine in England, all of it has been very positive. We ourselves were surprised as to how well the book turned out, and I think many others have been equally surprised. I honestly thought it would be more like a ‘school history project’ but the level of production design, the quality of the illustrations, maps and photographs, and a very judicious edit, meant that the final product turned out as well as it did. The project took two years from start to completion, and I now fully appreciate the work involved in publishing any book- not
least one like ours. I must redistribute the credit paid to myself to my co-author Paula Howard, the editor Susan Nichols and the designer, Emma Byrne – each of them did a fantastic job. I took part in interviews with RTE, Newstalk and other local radio, the book received a lengthy review from The Irish Times, and RTE Nationwide spent a day with us – I am advised that this will be broadcast in the next month or two. My thanks goes to Graham and all at Funeral Times as the magazine carried a very generous piece about the book launch in the last edition. The book was taken for distribution by both Eason and Argosy, and it was a slightly surreal moment to see it for sale in Hodges Figgis on Dawson Street the other day. It is also available on Amazon UK.
State Funeral for former Taoiseach My colleague David Fanagan along with Con Gilsenan (Mullingar) were recently involved with the State Funeral for former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds. Both David and Con put in an enormous amount of time organising and conducting all of the ceremonies over the three days. Although the funeral plan was very similar to that of the late Garret Fitzgerald in 2011, in reality, one is always starting from a blank page when it comes to a funeral such as this. Personnel in Department of Taoiseach, the Gardai, Defence Forces Ireland, the Mansion House and the Church all rotate and change over a few years – and for most of these people, a state funeral is a unique and once-off event. There is huge potential for ‘too many cooks’ appearing left, right and centre, and 60 | FuneralTimes
Albert Reynolds David and Con had the experience to be the calm voices in the middle of it all. A torrential
downpour at Shanganagh Cemetery was the only blip and not even the most one-eyed cynical commentator could blame the funeral directors for that! Incidentally, the offer of ‘State Funeral’ is in the gift of Department of the Taoiseach only, and a family has the choice not to accept one, if so offered. I recall reading that Margaret Thatcher had planned her state funeral (in advance) with the then Prime Minister Gordon Brown. The true ‘motif ’ of a State Funeral is the involvement of the Defence Forces at various points in the proceedings, and in this
country there is a graveside oration usually given (though not for the Reynolds funeral, and looking at the weather I would guess that most people were relieved there wasn’t one!). Considering all the people involved, the TV production in both church and cemetery, the seating arrangements, order of service, invitations and protocol, family requirements, Defence Forces, Gardai, media, the numbers of our staff, vehicle logistics and all the prior consultation, it is a wonder what can be achieved in three days. Well done to all involved.
A fond farewell for Debbie I must make a brief ‘shout-out’ to Debbie Andres, who was heavily involved with FIAT-IFTA during my time at the helm, as she was head of International Affairs for NFDA, the giant US funeral association. I met Debbie numerous times at FIAT-IFTA events, and some readers may recall meeting
her at the Dublin 2012 International Convention. Debbie has decided to leave for pastures new, and is taking up a post in Singapore, for the ANG Corporation, one of Asia’s leading funeral companies. I wish Debbie the very best of success in her new role.
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Third Wilcox Jaguar fleet for C.T. Butterfield & Sons C.T. Butterfield & A newly delivered Jaguar Hearse and two Sons Ltd. was formed Limousines supplied by Wilcox Limousines in 1874 and is now a fifth generation family business. The main office is located in Swinton, South Yorkshire, with a second funeral home in Kimberworth. A professional and well-established family efficient 3.0 diesel engines. They have a high business, they are members of BIFD, NAFD specification including satellite navigation, and BIE. Bluetooth phone system, leather interior, Brian and Doreen were delighted to receive cruise control, alloy wheels and day time their new Jaguar fleet, the third example of running lights. which they have purchased. Wilcox Limousines would like to thank the Brian had a tailor made, hand crafted family for their continued business and wish hearse with the option of 3 Bearer Seating. them every success with their new vehicles. All three vehicles came with quiet and
Wilcox removal ambulance for M. Garton & Son Funeral Directors Our photos show a new Vauxhall Vivaro removal ambulance supplied to M Garton & Son Funeral Directors. The firm were formed in 1888 and have branches in Hull, Hedon and South Cave. The ambulance was fitted with a bespoke deck to suit the exact requirements of the business. Malcolm did not have a requirement for a rise and fall deck. A base deck alone was fitted alongside storage boxes and a space to carry a two man stretcher. This culminated in the provision of a dignified vehicle to transfer deceased to the respective funeral home. Wilcox Limousines would like to thank Malcolm and his team for the opportunity to supply the ambulance and wish them every success with their new vehicle.
A Vauxhall Vivaro removal ambulance supplied to M. Garton & Son Funeral Directors FuneralTimes | 63
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The Things We Do for Money! I
t is always dangerous to ask a Scotsman for money! Scottish people are often stereotyped as being cheap, miserly and tight fisted with money. However, interestingly, the people who tell the best jokes about the Scottish unwillingness to part with their “bawbees” are the Scots themselves. There is a difference between laughing with others and laughing at others. Sadly, these days not everyone laughs. In this age of political correctness gone wild, you daren’t say anything or make jokes about other cultures, nationalities or religions. Aren’t you getting tired of people taking offence at the slightest little thing? Not every attempt at teasing or humour has to be interpreted as prejudice, hatred, sexism or the like (even though I do know that this can happen, and is never to be condoned). See how easy it is for a Scot to divert the topic AWAY from the request for money with which we started? So as I was mentioning, there have been a number of people lately who have taken their lives in their hands to risk requesting a donation to worthwhile projects. And while not wanting to completely blow the myth represented by my opening statement, I have actually responded to a few… although I hasten to add that should not be regarded as an open invitation or incentive for future solicitations. There still beats a true Scottish heart beneath this Canadian camouflage. Besides, when it comes to charitable donations, I prefer to have all my BEGS in one ask it! So what have people been up to that would persuade this thrifty Scot to part with his
pennies? You would be amazed by the variety of projects people engage in to raise money for good causes. A good friend of mine in England trained for months to run in the London Marathon and by completing the 26 mile course, singlehandedly raised £6,000 for Cancer Research in memory of his sister, who died of the disease a few years ago. Jane Bennett organized a “Fire Walk” to raise funds for local charities. They encouraged people to participate by saying “If you have a burning desire to do something different, then experience the exhilaration of a fire walk with your friends.” The poster concluded with the words, “Get ready for a day you and your feet will never forget.” That’s what I would be afraid of!! But on a bright Saturday morning, after instruction and motivation (I would have required brain washing!!) 83 brave people bared their soles and walked across the burning embers, none, I understand, suffering any serious consequences or discomfort. Frankly I was happy to make a donation NOT to have to walk on burning coals. A great time was had by all, and £16,000 was raised to be shared between 20 worthy causes in the community. Another request came in from three friends who had each agreed to jump out of a plane at 12,000 feet and float to the ground in tandem with an experienced parachutist. The participants, though obviously apprehensive as they ascended in the plane and at the moment of no return, later stated, “It is really such an amazing feeling, free falling at speed and then the peaceful calm descent once the parachute is opened, we FuneralTimes | 65
were all on such a high when we landed. Something that none of us thought we would ever do, but put the word “Charity” in front of it and we were all committed.” That initiative raised £1,600 for the Alzheimer’s Society. But the bravest and perhaps most outlandish request of all came last week from another funeral director friend of mine in England (do the English think we Scots are a push over?) who is raising money for the Teenage Cancer Trust. Here is what she said in her letter requesting sponsorship: “Last year, my New Year’s resolution was to say yes to things! As a direct result of this, myself and three friends, together with a whole lot of other mad fools, are driving a £400 car in the Dumball Rally. We are setting off from Brighton, driving down through France and Spain, a ferry to Morocco and spending 4-5 days driving around North Africa! This route includes Casablanca, the Atlas Mountains, Fes, Marrakech, and a venture into the Sahara
66 | FuneralTimes
Desert!” Not something I might be brave enough to attempt myself at this stage, (there was a day, believe it or not!) but if she is willing to go to such lengths to support a great cause she believes in, how could anyone… even a thrifty Scot… refuse to support the initiative? How can anyone say no to people who are willing to do such great things to accomplish something worthwhile in order to benefit others and causes they believe in? Hats off to them all, I say. While these examples of fund raising projects may be a bit out of the ordinary, how many times do we see people organizing memorial golf tournaments, bingo evenings, walks, runs, cycling tours and a host of other initiatives designed to raise money to donate to worthy causes, often in memory of people who have died. But why do people do it? Why do we do what we do to raise money, and why do the less adventurous like me happily do something to donate to the cause? Note how many times the word “do” was
used in that last paragraph. It contains the key to our understanding of the reaction. When someone dies, or when we struggle with a life threatening or life limiting illness, we find ourselves in a situation where there is nothing we can do. My rationale for that statement is by pointing out that almost every person I have ever met in such situations would say “I would do anything to change what has happened.” I remember a father talking to me about the death of his son, and saying “I did everything under the sun to help Michael. But after he died I tormented myself with all kinds of thoughts. What more could I have done? What didn’t I do? Why didn’t I take him and throw him in front of a doctor and say ‘There’s something wrong here.’ I felt guilty because I felt like I didn’t do enough.” Sadly this is a common reaction. Confronting our inability to change what has happened is the most difficult challenge in any loss situation. The question becomes, “What do you do when there is nothing you can do.” While that statement may seem like a contradiction, it is a very real issue. When a death occurs, or when one is dealing with cancer or a life limiting situation, everyone asks “What can I do?” The reason behind this reaction is simple. If I can do something, that gives me a sense of control. I can do something to make this meaningful, even if I can’t control the outcome. When what has happened cannot be changed, what are the things I can change? We may not be able to alter the circumstances, but we can always change how we or others are affected by them. “Doing something” helps us find meaning
in a situation that often HAS no meaning. My friends, and many others like them, find ways in which they can make a difference in a situation where there is nothing they can do to change the outcome. And I say, more power to them, because they also give me the opportunity to do something to make a difficult situation better. The following story puts it in perspective: A man was walking along the seashore one morning and noticed that during the night many starfish had washed up on the beach. Eventually, he noticed a little girl, methodically picking up starfish and tossing them back into the surf. “Why are you doing that?” he asked. “If I leave the starfish on the beach,” the girl replied, “the sun will dry them and they will die. So I’m throwing them back into the ocean because I want them to live.” The man motioned up and down the miles of beach and said, “There must be millions of starfish along here! How can you possibly expect to make a difference?” The young girl thought for a moment, then reached down and picked up another starfish, looked at it and threw it gently into the surf. She turned to the man and smiled “You may be right,” she said, “but I made a difference for that one!” You and I may not be able to change the world, or rescue all those who need to be liberated. But can you make a difference for that one? Never underestimate the difference you can make when you care enough to reach out and help someone get back to where they need to be. That’s enough to warm even the coldest heart.
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Coleman Milne Cardinal Hearse for Ronald Cogan and Sons Ltd.
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onald Cogan & Sons Ltd is a small family owned, independent firm of Funeral Directors, established in 1964 by Ronald & Hilda Cogan. Today the business is owned and managed by their eldest son and daughter-inlaw, David & Lynda Cogan. The business started from very humble beginnings and over the years has developed to become one of only a handful of true family owned and run Funeral Directors in East Yorkshire. In 2014 they are commemorating their 50th year of continuous service in North Ferriby and surrounding areas, which is quite an achievement. The firm that Ron and Hilda started back in 1964 is still going strong. They run their own fleet of Coleman Milne Ceremonial Vehicles and the picture shows David recently taking delivery of an Approved Pre-Owned Cardinal Hearse from Eddie Marsden, Sales Manager.
Coleman Milne Deliver Fleet of Ceremonial Vehicles to Martin Rankin Funeral Directors
M
artin Rankin is a young but experienced Funeral Director who has been serving bereaved families in the North East for twenty years. The funeral home in the heart of Whickham is purpose built to provide a private and peaceful atmosphere from a convenient location. They have already established a reputation of giving the very best service at an affordable price. And that includes the fleet of Ford Funeral Vehicles that have recently been delivered to help with the excellent service provided to the community. Picture shows Mr. Martin Rankin and staff.
68 | FuneralTimes
Coleman Milne Deliver Fleet of Ceremonial Vehicles to Anderson Maguire Funeral Directors
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nderson Maguire, one of Scotland’s most highly respected funeral directors, is an independent, family-owned company whose reputation in the community is built on a long tradition of personal service. The new fleet of Coleman Milne hearses and limousines will enable them to provide first class facilities and a comprehensive range of services. Picture shows the fleet in front of Coleman Milne premises before delivery.
New Area Sales Manager for Coleman Milne C
oleman Milne is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Tony Kerr to the role of area sales manager for Scotland and Northern Ireland. Replacing John Haggerty, who was a valued member of the team for 8 years, he offers a wealth of experience and is well placed to offer the best possible advice regarding Coleman Milne products and services. For any inquiries, do not hesitate to contact him on 07860 586850 or email at tony.kerr@ woodall-nicholson.co.uk FuneralTimes | 69
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Pearson Repatriation Service (UK) A small independent family run company offering a fast and reliable service 24 hours a day.
As part of our service to you, we can: • Repatriate the deceased from the UK • Provide a coffin and interior • Provide embalming services
Telephone +44 (0)1484 844289 Proprietor Clive J Pearson LMBIFD. DIP.FD. MBIE Manchester Road, Marsden, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, UK, HD7 6EY 70 | FuneralTimes
‘Memorial Text’ launched in Clonmel A
n innovative concept which allows funeral undertakers to send texts of all their funeral arrangements to members of the public is celebrating its first successful year in business. ‘Memorial Text’ the brainchild of Dungarvan businessman Maurice Butler, said they were delighted with the success of the venture, “It has gone from strength to strength over the past year with lots of people subscribing to the service”. James Kiely and Son Funeral Directors, operating locally in Dungarvan, and Drohan’s Funeral Directors, were the first undertakers to sign up to Memorial Text. Now, after a year in business, Memorial Text is hoping to expand the service throughout Ireland and is currently talking to other interested undertakers in the Tipperary area where it was launched with Devitts Funeral Directors, The Green, Cashel, John O’ Donoghue & Sons, 60A Kickham Street, Clonmel and Walsh’s Funeral Directors, New Street, Carrick-OnSuir, availing of the service. It is hoped that in less than a year the majority of funeral directors in Ireland will avail of this service. Memorial Text is a FREE service to the public. When arrangements are completed for a local funeral in your area, the details are then passed on to Memorial Text Service. Maurice said that Memorial Text is free to everyone who receives the text, which gives instant details to their phone about funeral arrangements of recently deceased in the area. “People can often miss funerals because of not knowing or not hearing about the passing of a deceased person,” he pointed out. “Memorial Text makes it so easy, because as soon as the arrangements are made by the undertaker he then passes on the information to Memorial Text, who
L to R James Devitt, Darragh Walsh, Maurice Butler Memorial Text and John O’ Donoghue at the recent launch of Memorial Text in Clonmel instantly relay this information to all the people who subscribed to receiving the FREE texts,” said Maurice. “It’s important to know that you must subscribe to each undertaker separately using the name or code provided to the Memorial Text number 087-1925300. “As people are busier in their lives, technology can help and Memorial Text is just another idea that makes life easier,” he said. “Nobody wants to hear about a friend or neighbour passing away, but now you won’t miss that important funeral so you can support and comfort your friends.” To avail of this FREE service simply text the word O’Donoghue’s, Devitts or Walshes or if you wish to text all three to 087-1925300 to receive all future funeral arrangements from them to your phone. Those subscribing to the service should note that like radio, some families may opt out of using this service. For more information you can log onto www.memorialtext.ie or email info@memorialtext.ie. For all other funeral undertakers who wish to know more about this, check out www.memorialtext.ie or contact local Rep Tom Murphy on 086 2569752. FuneralTimes | 71
Yorkshire funeral directors visit Sheffield Digital Autopsy facility as second centre opens in Bradford Nineteen funeral directors from Yorkshire and the Humber recently visited iGene’s revolutionary Digital Autopsy facility in Sheffield to understand how Digital Autopsies can benefit bereaved families by determining the cause of death without the need to open up the body.
T
he visit came shortly after iGene also opened the second of their proposed 18-strong UK network of centres, in Bradford. Digital Autopsy is the new generation of post-mortem investigation, aiming to improve the performance and results of post-mortems with the added benefit of providing a humanitarian, more acceptable way of them being conducted. Digital Autopsy involves a scan of the body using a multi-slice CT scanner, before iGene’s revolutionary, proprietary software ‘INFOPSY®’ creates a 3D reconstruction of the actual body, enabling the pathologist to conduct a full, non-invasive digital post mortem on a computer screen. The results, which meet all required medico-legal standards, are available almost immediately. Benefits of the Digital Autopsy system include: • Easing the emotional burden on families at a time of intense stress with a dignified and non-invasive investigation. • Speed of examination, investigation and subsequent autopsy results, minimising delays in releasing the body for burial or cremation
Digital Autopsy screens 72 | FuneralTimes
The new Digital Autopsy Centre is connected to the Bradford public mortuary facility • Accuracy of results - Some findings that are difficult to spot during a conventional process can be more easily identified and examined in line with the needs of forensic pathologists. iGene’s pathologists can rotate the image and use a 3D scalpel to peel away layers of the body right down to the skeleton as well as taking a detailed look inside the organs. The funeral directors also saw how pathologists can mark any areas of interest in red on the 3D images for subsequent viewers of the case file. On a third screen, where necessary, the scene of death or crime can also be reconstructed digitally in 3D using panoramic photos taken at the scene. Funeral director Barry Pritchard, said: “It was an exceptional evening. I’d already heard about Digital Autopsy in meetings with a London-based Coroner who is keen to have one of iGene’s centres in his
jurisdiction. However I am someone who likes to see technology for myself and I was amazed by the science and pleased to know that they have worked hard to be certain that it delivers the same result that a classical autopsy would. Having a noninvasive option is much better for both the deceased and the family, so this is great for the future. ” Jon Nottingham of iGene added: “We would be pleased to show other funeral directors around our Digital Autopsy facilities as they open up across the UK to help them understand the benefits of Digital Autopsy for bereaved families.” iGene recently opened their second Digital Autopsy facility in Bradford. The new, multi-million pound centre is housed at the modern Public and Forensic Mortuary in Burnham Avenue, Bradford. Dr Alan Fletcher, Head of Medical Science at iGene, added: “The new Digital Autopsy Facility in Bradford will not only complement
the current arrangements for coronial investigation, but offer people an unrivalled opportunity moving forwards to avoid an invasive post mortem. Digital Autopsy represents a tremendous compassionate step forward in establishing the cause of death. It is non or minimally invasive, therefore avoiding having to dissect the body, and it can facilitate the earlier release of bodies for burial or cremation, which is also an important factor for grieving families.” Approximately 550,000 deaths are recorded in England and Wales each year alone, of which more than 200,000 are classified as medico legal. iGene believes that Digital Autopsies will become the first line intervention in post-mortem investigation and more than 70% of the cases could be concluded with Digital Autopsy alone. In the future a more targeted, invasive post mortem may be only required where Digital Autopsy cannot provide all information required.
New hearse for Staffords Funeral Directors Mr Jonathan Stafford and Mr Nevin Stafford of Staffords Funeral Directors, Dublin taking delivery of a new 6 door limousine based on the Mercedes W212 series from Mr Gerard Duffy of Duffy Coachbodies Dundalk Ltd. Duffy Coachbodies would like to thank Staffords for their continuing support and wish them every success in the future FuneralTimes | 73
Wreath Manufacture & Wholesale At Tom Sharkey & Sons Ltd.
Barrack Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.
All wreaths are created by fully qualified florists, reflecting contemporary design in floral arrangements All at very competitive prices Special requests catered for at shortest notice
n Free next day delivery on orders over €100
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 Discounts apply on scale of your orders
n Call or email now to receive our new brochure
Telephone: +00353 (0)94 986 0658 or email: sales@allseasonsflorists.ie
Hearse & Limousines Tel: 028/048 2582 2525 Fax: 028/048 2582 2299
For Sale 2011 Insignia 5 door Hearse • Double deck • Folding cover boards • Rear seats • Paintwork & interior brand new • 23000 miles 13 Garvaghy Road, Portglenone, County Antrim BT44 8EF
Email: fearghas@fearghasquinn.com or visit our website for more information ** Feel free to call us, with no obligation. Rest assured we will not pester you with phone calls or unsolicited visits **
www.fearghasquinn.com
A flexible system from Eulogica to suit every funeral director Funeral Directors, like any other business, benefit from presenting an efficient and professional image to the public. It pays them in a number of ways to think about their internal systems for administration and handling accounts. With an efficient and streamlined system in place more time can be spent where it is most important – helping families when they need it most.
O
ne of the core ideas behind the Eulogica software is that every funeral is unique and every funeral director is unique. We have found that all funeral directors do things in their own way, be it the letters that are sent out or the services included in the funeral. The software is designed to be as flexible as possible so that any eventuality can be catered for. This is especially important for independent funeral directors because the way they do business is vital to their continuing success. If the software is not capable of working for them then they will not be getting the benefits of such a system. The system covers all aspects of the funeral, from the first call to handling the invoices and accounts. When a new funeral is being organised, the information is entered into the database – details of the deceased person, the client, the next of kin, etc. The different parts of the funeral are then entered as details are arranged – coffin choices, vehicles, minister details, etc. With the data in the system a wide variety of letters, forms and reports can be printed out
without having to enter any details a second time. Eulogica was originally developed in the 1990s, for funeral directors in Norway. A concept of continuous maintenance and support led to widespread acceptance of the system across the country and the majority of all funerals in Norway are administered through the Eulogica system. Eulogica was established in the UK in 2003, with the software being launched in 2005. In 2008 the business expanded into Sweden. 2012 saw the expansion into Ireland and the Netherlands.
FuneralTimes | 75
GM Canopies
GM Canopies are the sole distributors in N. Ireland and the Rep. of Ireland for Vitabri Canopies, tables and accessories. Vitabri canopies are manufactured in fourteen sizes and thirty-three colours. Our graphics and printing department can design and print to your exact specifications.
183 Tamlaght Road, Omagh, Co Tyrone BT78 5LL Tel: 028 8224 4025 Fax: 028 8224 3338 (Rep. of Ire. prefix 048) email:gmcanopies@btinternet.com www.gmcanopies.com 76 | FuneralTimes
'Vitabri' - The Quality Choice In Graveside Canopies GM Canopies are the sole distributors in Ireland for 'Vitabri' Les Stands, one of Europe's leading companies manufacturing quality portable aluminium framed canopies, tables and display units. The canopies are widely used by Funeral Directors throughout the UK and Europe who wish to offer privacy and comfort to their clients and attendees during the funeral service. Funeral Directors in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland who have purchased a 'Vitabri' canopy are pleased with the quality, versatility and adaptability of the product. The canopy can be used at the graveside to provide protective covering to the bereaved during inclement weather conditions and to provide privacy at a time of grief. The canopies are widely used by Parish and Church Committees for indoor and outdoor functions. They are also used for Dedication
Services, Remembrance Services and Cemetery Sunday Services. The canopy also offers privacy when opening and closing graves or in the event of an exhumation. The canopy is an excellent cover when engraving, cleaning or repairing headstones. Vitabri canopies are manufactured in fourteen sizes and thirty three colours. The company's graphics and printing department can design and print to exact specifications. GM Canopies are the sole distributors in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for Vitabri Canopies, tables and accessories. For further information contact: GM Canopies 183 Tamlaght Road, Omagh, Co Tyrone BT78 5LL Tel: 028.82244025 Fax: 028 8224 3338 (Rep. of Ire. prefix 048) e.mail:gmcanopies@btinternet.com www.gmcanopies.com FuneralTimes | 77
Wilcox Limousine guests enjoy a royal day out Wilcox Limousines hosted a spectacular day out for Funeral Directors at the Henley Royal Regatta on Wednesday 2nd July 2014.
O
ver 90 guests were treated to a luxury day out onboard a private Salter Brothers steamer, setting sail from Harleyford Private Members Yacht and Golf club just outside Marlow. After driving through the impressive grounds and boarding the boat, guests were treated to champagne and a selection of delicious canapĂŠs including salmon, prawn and crab blinis. The champagne continued to flow freely all day long, complemented by an impressive open bar selection. A fantastic 5 piece Jazz band gave the perfect acoustic backdrop
78 | FuneralTimes
for lots of fun and mingling. Henley Royal Regatta is undoubtedly the best known regatta in the world and is one of the highlights of both the summer sporting calendar and the social season. This year it celebrated it’s 175th anniversary with over 200 races from junior to international level, ranging from Olympians to crews new to the event. Aside from the rowing, visitors took in the ambience, enjoying the facilities within the enclosures, with guests enjoying a leisurely stroll and ice cream through the centre of Henley after the boat moored post-lunch.
“Do We Really Care”? By Padraic Cawley MICF. Civil Funeral Celebrant. It’s been three short years this month since I was ensconced in Buckden Towers in the heart of Cambridgeshire, training to become a Civil Funeral Celebrant. It was a very intense, but rewarding course, that provided me with information, back up support, and a realization that, yes, maybe I could be of help to families in their darkest hour and assist them with giving their loved one the funeral service that they wished for.
I
can recall all the positive vibes that I received from collegues when I returned home, proudly holding my level three accreditation certificate. “This is the way of the future” they said. So, although I knew that in Catholic Ireland, a civil funeral would be slow to catch on, it would eventually become a popular choice for people, once they realized they had an option. So, I became proactive in promoting my service to as many funeral directors as I could. This was made a little easier in that I had already some years under my belt working in the industry. My first funeral service was that of a very prominent business person, and I was extremely nervous and suddenly everything that I had learned ‘went out the window’. Thankfully I delivered the service that the family had wished for, and I was off the starting blocks. Over the next two years I slowly, but surely built up my reputation, and I was officiating at funeral services for families from all diverse backgrounds with each one bringing new ideas for their loved one’s ceremony. It was a steep learning curve for me – meeting families from all backgrounds in all situations. I am very aware that when I meet with a family, that I take them into my care, the same as a funeral director does when arranging a funeral. As a celebrant who helps a family express their wishes, I would probably gain a level of trust that a funeral arranger might not see. After I deliver a service, I will call to a family some weeks later, and present them with a bound copy of their service to have as a keepsake. Generally, over the course of the following months I might call, or telephone
them, to let them know that they are in my thoughts. On one occasion, I met with a lady who almost ten months later, was still very ‘emotionally raw’ after the death of her mother. I was able to suggest that she contact her local bereavement group. She didn’t know that such a group existed, and a few weeks later she contacted me to thank me for caring. Earlier this year I started a website to help promote my services. It was a very worthwhile investment, as my business suddenly grew beyond all expectations. While this has been very welcome, suddenly I found myself in the fast lane, and my follow up calls to families were put on the back boiler. I found that because I was so busy, I posted the ceremony script to families, as I hadn’t time to call! Taking families into my ‘care’ was suddenly down to the week of the funeral service, and no more. Thankfully the month of August was a little quieter, and I was able to catch up with saying hello to families again. So, as funeral professionals, “Do we really ‘care’”? We all have to run businesses, make a profit, and look to future growth, but a phone call or, if passing a house where only a widow now lives won’t take too much time, and that one point of contact could make all the difference in helping with our caring approach. With our economy staring to reawaken, we might get sucked into the fast lane again, and forget about everything but ourselves. But we are in the business of helping families with the most distressing and emotional time of their lives, and we have to ‘care’ in order to take them into our ‘care’. FuneralTimes | 79
Step In Time Carriages
Nationwide service We are committed to providing a compassionate, courteous and professional service that you can trust Elegant and dignified horse-drawn hearses provided
Contact John O’Grady T: 061 713826 M: 086 2340837
Email: stepintimecarriages@eircom.net Web: www.carriagehire.ie 80 | FuneralTimes
tailor-made solutions to the funeral trade
Funeral Supplies Donegal Ltd. We manufacture and supply: coďŹƒn and casket side sheets (fall over) coďŹƒn and casket pads (elastic/tape, black/green/purple) eco friendly linings (cotton & linen) lid linings shrouds mountings
Funeral Supplies Donegal Ltd. Leghowney Donegal Town Co. Donegal Ireland Tel: +353(0)74 9723715 Fax: +353 (0)74 9723742 Mobile: +353 (0)87 2376169 www.funeralsupplies.ie FuneralTimes | 81 funeralsupplies@eircom.net
c D M ermott y r r e G Wreath Manufacturer
Circular Road, Roscommon Tel: 090 6629737 Tel: 090 6625763 Mob: 086 2544126 Mob: 086 8205215 CONTACT: PAUL MOLLOY MOB: 087 2590843
2013 ford mondeo style 2.0 TDCI Auto hearse (131) • Ford Mondeo Hearse • 2.0 Diesel • Automatic • Black • Only 17,585 miles/28,300 km • 3 Door £Price on Application
2010 Ford mondeo 2.3 auto lx 161ps 3dr hearse • Stunning Ford Mondeo Hearse • Bryne Built • 2.3 Petrol • Black • Only 7,861 miles/12,651 km from new • 1 owner • 3 Door • Please call for details £Price on Application
Fort Motors Ltd., Airton Road,Tallaght, Dublin 24 Tel: 01 400 00 44 or Email: info@tallaghtford.ie 82 | FuneralTimes
Classifieds... Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com Mercedes Vito 2010 Van
2010 Ford Mondeo Zetec
• Extra long version • 70,000 miles • Service history • Pristine condition • Metallic silver • One owner
• 2.3 lt Petrol • Parking sensors • 1 Very careful owner • Only 9,500mls • Quinn built • Very good condition • Price on Application
Contact Glyn Tallon T: 086 6024040
CUNNINGHAM MEMORIALS
Formerly of Ormeau Road, Belfast
All types of Quality Headstones, Surrounds, Plaques, Vases and Stone Chippings. Renovations and Additional Inscriptions. A Specialty in any Cemetery. Free Estimates All Work Guaranteed
Tel/Fax: 028 9070 4404
Contact Byrne Coachcraft T: 085 1018385 for details
Matthew L. Jones Funeral repatriation service • South Wales based • 24 Hour removal & repatriation service • Long & short distance throughout UK & Ireland • Inclusive of airports & ferry ports • B.I.E qualified embalming service • Also Hearse & Limousine hire available
Mobile: 07815 866652 Tel: 01267 236787 (24hrs) email: info@mljfs.co.uk www.matthewljonesfuneralservices.co.uk FuneralTimes | 83
Classifieds... Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com one Man Removal Stretcher • Never used €1,200euro church pews for sale Solid, seasoned mahogany, excellent condition, very comfortable, varying lengths, typically 2.6m, any quantity.
FINAL FEW REMAINING Contact Ernest McKeown: 028 2564 2673
Wanted Mercedes W212 E Class 6 door Limousine 2010-2012 Cash waiting for suitable vehicle
Telephone: 00353 87 2542511 (NI) 087 2542511 (ROI)
• Full embalming kit including pump €1,200euro Tel Noel on: 00353 45 891122 / 00353 87 1314353 E: jnoelhughes@gmail.com
PATRICK RYAN & DAUGHTER FUNERAL DIRECTORS SPECIALISING IN REPATRIATION TO ALL PARTS OF IRELAND
TEL: 0208 567 1664 FAX: 0208 566 4795 6 South Ealing Road, London W5 4QA Email: patrick.ryan@virgin.net Website: PATRICK-RYAN.CO.UK COVERING LONDON AND THE HOME COUNTIES
84 | FuneralTimes
Classifieds... Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com WANTED IMMEDIATELY! FUNERAL BUSINESS IN IRELAND PARTNERSHIP CONSIDERED
TEL: 083 1002949 2010 Ford Mondeo Zetec
• 2.0lt Diesel Auto • New Build • Perfect Drive and Finish • Very well priced
Contact Byrne Coachcraft T: 085 1018385 for details
Two bay fridge
• Never used • With roof plant and hydraulic lifter
Contact Glyn Tallon T: 086 6024040 FuneralTimes | 85
Classifieds... Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com 2002 mercedes hearse
Frank Keogh & Sons Funeral Repatriation Services
• E280 Pollman built • 52,000 miles • NCT’d and taxed • Well maintained PRICE €25,000
T: 087 6182834 for details
Woodbrook, Bray Co.Wicklow Telephone:
ROI - 086 8440208 NI - 00353 86 8440208
jb1
Pair of Mercedes Limousines (6 door) • Mercedes Hearse Available Experienced Drivers • Provincewide service available Northern Transfers is our new removal service available to Funeral Directors across N.I. and R.O.I. For enquiries please conact: James on Mob: 077 3428 3181/Tel: 028 3884 9151 Web: www.jamesbartonfuneralservices.co.uk • Email: jamesbarton75@gmail.com 86 | FuneralTimes
T H E J AG U A R , B E A U T I F U L F RO M E V E R Y A N G L E H a n d c r a f te d t o y o u r s p e ci f i c a t i o n www.limousines.co.uk enquiries@wilcoxlims.co.uk +441753 480 600