General

Through 30+ years of working local funeral directors across West Kent and Southeast London, we’ve seen society get progressively better at speaking to loved ones about funerals, meaning that a lot of the mystery and myth surrounding our trade has – thankfully – started to clear. However, one question that we are still often asked is ‘what does a funeral arranger do?’ We sat down with Tunbridge Wells’ funeral arranger Sam O’flynn to find out the responsibilities, trials and triumphs that come with being a funeral arranger.

The funeral cortege – the journey that carries the deceased and mourners to the site of the funeral ceremony – has long been seen as a purely functional aspect of the service; a way from get from A to B. However, at Welham Jones, we believe that there are a whole host of opportunities that hide between these two little letters, and that the cortege it is an often-overlooked opportunity for loved ones to reminisce one last time. So, what are the popular sights that bring back memories for Tonbridge locals? and how can you customise your cortege?

Planning a funeral, whether for a loved one or for yourself in advance, is one of the most personal decisions you’ll ever make. It’s also one that often has to be made quickly, and during a time of great emotional stress. That’s why it’s so important to feel confident that the funeral director you choose is the right fit for your family. As a family-run, independent funeral director with branches across West Kent and South East London, we understand how crucial trust, transparency and compassion are when supporting someone through loss. Here’s how to make sure you’re in safe hands from the very start.

As a local, independent, family-run funeral director, we know the importance of putting an empathetic, compassionate face to a name, and being able to build a rapport with your funeral director. This is why it is our pleasure to introduce Tonbridge locals to Rosanna Hayward, our passionate and committed funeral arranger, overseeing our Tonbridge operations.

As a funeral director serving communities across West Kent and South East London, I’ve witnessed firsthand how music can profoundly shape a farewell. Whether you’re arranging a funeral in Sevenoaks, considering a pre-paid funeral plan in Tonbridge, or simply exploring options in Chislehurst and Bromley, understanding the role of music can be invaluable.

Today, cremation is the most popular choice when it comes to funerals in the UK. As funeral directors operating across West Kent and South East London, Welham Jones Funeral Directors see first hand how it outranks burial even more sharply in this crowded corner of the country where land is at a premium. Yet, surprisingly, just under a 150 years ago, the practice was still illegal. Why was that, and what changed for it to overtake traditional burials?

Choosing a funeral director is an important decision. Organising a funeral for a loved one – or planning your own funeral – is a key milestone event in your life. But how can you tell whether the funeral directors you are considering will treat you with professionalism, respect and empathy, that they will treat your loved one with dignity, and that they will deliver on the day? Our guide will help you make the right choice.

At Welham Jones, our funeral ‘first responders’ are at the heart of our care. We’re currently recruiting a new funeral first responder to join our trusted team, helping local families across West Kent and South East London at their time of need. But what does the job involve, and why is it so meaningful? We spoke to Jason Carr, a long-standing member of our team, to find out why this flexible and rewarding role is unlike any other.

While some of us don’t want to give any thought to our own funerals, others have a very clear idea of how we would like to be commemorated when our time comes. If you know what kind of funeral you would like, can you ensure that your wishes will be upheld? You may be surprised by the answer.

Most people underestimate the number of decisions involved in organising a funeral, so giving your loved ones some guidance beforehand can take pressure off what is already an emotional time. It can also help their wellbeing if they know that your final farewell was in line with your wishes and they have done you proud.