D.G. Lockhart Funeral Directors

14/11/2025

As days get a little darker and it’s a whole lot colder, remember we’re here. We have the warmest wee office in the toon and our kettle doesn’t stop. If you need a soft seat, to warm up for a minute or if you just need a friendly face & a pair of listening ears, pop in!

Our office is open Monday – Friday, 9am – 3pm. If we’re engaged with business our door sign will be turned. Out-with opening hours, we’re available on the usual number for urgent matters (01556 610108).

Take care & stay warm!

06/11/2025

A little reminder to send in any photographs for our Christmas tribute 🎄Photos can be sent via email to funerals@dglockhart.co.uk or message the page.

30/10/2025

In our earlier post we mentioned that we would share the story of one of our family members who served and lost his life during WWI.

This is Rachael’s great, great Grandfather – Francis McQueen.

Born in 1884, Francis was from Kirkcudbright and went on to live in Dumfries. Corporal McQueen served in the regular army and after service with the colours passed into the reserve. He was recalled to the Army on the outbreak of WW1 and posted to the Royal Army Medical Corps, sailing for France on 5th August, 1914. When home on furlough in May 1916, he tried to comfort his mother with the assurance that he was just as safe in France as he was in her own house. Three weeks later, Francis was shot by a sniper when stepping off an ambulance car. In a letter to Francis’ wife, his captain penned:

“He died as he lived, doing his duty quietly and thoroughly. The whole convoy deeply regrets his loss both as an efficient N.C.O and a good comrade”.

This time of year serves as a reminder of where we all came from, those who came before us and the freedoms we have because of those who served. Lest we forget.

24/10/2025

As we approach Remembrance, the team at D.G. Lockhart Funeral Directors are proud to wear their poppies and place a wreath in our window. We’ll share the story of one of our own family members who lost his life in WWI as we look to remember & pay respect to those who served.

22/10/2025

Last night Rachael and Paige joined Funeral Directors from across the region for a tour of Roucan Loch Crematorium. It’s quite unbelievable the vast amount of land surrounding the chapel and the beautiful memorial options available in such a peaceful setting. A lot of thought has gone into every aspect of the grounds, which are so carefully maintained by the team. As we left, a rainbow appeared over the woodland burial ground.

Thanks to Ruth, Mark and the team for their time and hospitality.

16/10/2025

13/10/2025

Rachael popped into Better Lives Partnership Dumfries last week to give a raffle prize for their Christmas Fayre.

The Better Lives Partnership are a charity that supports Autistic adults in sourcing training, expanding skills and providing opportunities to assist in gaining employment or further education. A cause very close to Rachael's heart.

Rachael's husband, Dave, offered a prize on behalf of his recording studio (Circa 16 Sound Recording) and they look forward to attending the Fayre on 22nd of November and meeting Santa with their little boy, Finn.

04/10/2025

Rachael had the privilege of conducting the funeral of a former Funeral Director earlier this week. She dusted off and wore her top hat, as his sat atop his coffin to reflect his career in funeral care.

A true honour to assist. 🎩

30/09/2025

In recent years there has been a shift in funerals, with more people choosing cremation over burial. Traditional burials are still an option with most cemeteries in this region being owned and maintained by Dumfries and Galloway Council.

Services can take place at graveside or in a venue before or after the committal. In Scotland burial cords are often fitted to the handles allowing those in attendance to assist in lowering the coffin.

Does anyone recognise the old D&G churchyard below?

26/09/2025

Dalbeattie Star Girls and Ladies Football are holding a coffee morning to raise funds for Cash for Kids. Very proud to be the teams main sponsor this year and we wish them well in their fundraising efforts!

22/09/2025

Cremation adverts seem to be everywhere just now. As a Funeral Director, I’m not sure how I feel about that. A little deflated, I guess. One company in particular throw out adverts and leaflets like there is no tomorrow. This post from me to you hopefully provides you with some clear information without gimmicks, jargon and false advertising.

Locally, there are multiple Funeral Directors that, alongside us, work to a very high standard; Ian Bendall, Tranquility & Jardine Funeral Directors make up a profession of skilled, regulated and caring independent businesses. All of whom, offer a direct cremation service for under £1700.00. My funeral directing colleagues and I ensure that our care facilities are fit for purpose, our staff are professional, our vehicles are appropriate, and our service is local. The cremation takes place at Roucan Loch, and the person who has died is cared for within the funeral director’s premises. It’s personal, it’s professional and it’s carried out with care and respect by each and every one of us.

National companies, who seem to be bombarding the tv channels come 4pm can’t say the same. They aren’t cheaper, in fact more expensive for a distant level of service. The deceased is conveyed to East Kilbride in a van and cremated in Glasgow. When the time comes, your contact is with a call center, it’s £1750.00 and truth be told, I’m not sure what the facilities are like or who cares for the person who has died. The answers aren’t readily accessible.

I care about the standards we work by and I’m proud to serve Dumfries and Galloway alongside other Funeral Directors in the region who feel the same. Transparent, compassionate and professional. No multi-million pound campaigns, just a clear, regulated service, locally.

Rachael