http://www.greghodgkinsonfunerals.co.uk/

Garstang Funeral Home, Castle View, Bridge Street, Garstang (2025)

12/12/2025

In Loving Memory of Lindsay Williamson
11th August 1956 – 30th November 2025

Lindsay Williamson, aged 69, passed away on 30th November 2025 at the Royal Preston Hospital, surrounded by those he loved.

Born on 11th August 1956 in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, Lindsay was the devoted husband of Lynn Williamson and much-loved father of Tom Williamson.

Lindsay spent much of his working life as a printer, first with Burrall’s of Wisbech and later with Spiegl Press of Stamford. He went on to work as a handyman and driver for the Moulton Bulb Company, bringing to each role the same steady reliability and good-natured spirit he was known for.

A man of deep faith, Lindsay dedicated countless hours to the church. Having trained as a lay minister, he led worship at Spalding URC, Oakham Congregational, Forton URC, Garstang URC and many other congregations. He was cherished for his lively and engaging services, his creativity in worship and the gentle compassion he brought to his pastoral work.

Proud of his fenland roots, Lindsay held a lifelong fascination with the region’s heritage, folklore and wildlife. His curiosity and adventurous nature inspired him to write and publish several short books capturing his countryside explorations and the stories he loved to share. His enthusiasm even led to his own BBC television series, through which he brought the landscape and its tales to a wider audience.

To call Lindsay a football ‘fan’ hardly does justice to his passion for the sport. His support spanned numerous clubs, Wisbech Town, Boston United, Blackstones FC, Longridge Town, Clitheroe, Celtic and many more. If there was a match happening locally, whether on a Saturday, Tuesday, or the occasional Wednesday, Lindsay would be there, often offering the referee some spirited feedback.

Above all, Lindsay treasured his family. He married Lynn on 20th October 1984, and together they welcomed their son, Tom, on 22nd March 1992. Lindsay’s adventurous spirit made for unforgettable family days out exploring the British countryside and he nurtured Tom’s love of nature and history with pride. His quick wit, gift for storytelling and unwavering love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A funeral service to celebrate Lindsay’s life will be held at Garstang United Reformed on Friday 19th December at 11.00am, followed with a private committal at Preston Crematorium.

To reflect Lindsay’s spirit and character, casual attire is encouraged.

Donations in Lindsay’s memory may be made to Rosemere Cancer Foundation c/o the funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

11/12/2025

In Loving Memory of Julia Margaret Beeden (nee Barker)
21st October 1943 – 20th November 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Julia, who died at Macclesfield District General Hospital whilst in the care of Belong Macclesfield on Thursday 20th November, aged 82 years.

A loving wife to her late husband Robert “Bob”. A much-loved sister to Chris, Mum to Helen & John, Mother-in-law to Cerian and Anthony and “Oma” to Aidan, Gwen & Isabel.

Julia was born and educated in the West Riding of Yorkshire before relocating to London for work and subsequent teacher training. She moved back up north to take on teaching roles in Bailey Girls Secondary School in Fleetwood and Ripley St Thomas School in Lancaster and it was during that time she met Bob, a History teacher living in Morecambe.

In 1969, they settled into their marital home on Garstang Road, Claughton-on-Brock which became the family home with the arrival of Helen and John in 1974 and 1977 respectively. They would regularly attend St Helen’s Church, Churchtown.

Alongside her teaching career, Julia was involved in both the Garstang Historical Society and the Pilling & District Historical Societies together with Bob and authored the “Over Wyre Historical Journal”.

She also re-engaged with Girl Guiding by becoming Assistant Leader at Bilsborrow Guides and subsequently Brown Owl & Guide Leader at Whitechapel Guides & Brownies.

With an interest in sailing passed down from her father, Julia also volunteered with the Scouts at Tower Wood, Windermere to aid the sailing tuition to a wide variety of young people.

In her later years, before the pandemic, Julia volunteered for the National Trust at Sizergh Castle, Kendal on Sundays and Tuesdays whilst attending Sunday services at St Thomas Church, Crosscrake.

Julia’s Funeral Service will held at St Helen’s Church, Churchtown on Tuesday 16th December at 11.30am before being laid to rest in the graveyard.

Following the committal at the graveside, a warm invitation is extended to join the family at Kirkland & Catterall Memorial Hall for refreshments, to share stories, memories and continue celebrating Julia’s life.

Donations, in lieu of flowers, can be made in memory of Julia to support the work of ‘Alzheimer’s Society’ or ‘Age UK Lancashire’ c/o funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

10/12/2025

We’re pleased to announce the return of Light a Candle this Christmas!

Taking part in this Christmas’s Light a Candle gives you the opportunity to create online memorials throughout the festive period.

Christmas is a special time to celebrate with family and friends, and our virtual candles are a thoughtful way to pay tribute to loved ones who are no longer with us.

We'll be sharing virtual candles on our page between 15 and 21 December. There's no cost for you or your family to get involved and create an online memorial.
We look forward to sharing your memorials from 15 December.

28/11/2025

In Loving Memory of Mary Elizabeth Berry, ‘Betty’
12th February 1931 – 13th November 2025

With great sadness, we have been asked to announce and share the news that Betty died peacefully at home on Thursday 13th November 2025, aged 94 years.

Betty will be missed and loved by all her family.

Betty’s funeral will take place at St. Eadmer’s Church, Admarsh in Bleasdale on Thursday 4th December at 11.00am before being laid to rest in the churchyard, reunited with her late husband Robert Berry, ‘Bob’.

Family flowers only please. Donations if preferred, can be given in memory of Betty for St. Eadmer’s Church & Parish Hall c/o funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

24/11/2025

In Loving Memory of Herbert (Bert) Lowe
5th October 1935 – 13th November 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Bert, who died in the care of The Cornmill Nursing Home on Thursday 13th November, aged 90 years.

A devoted, loving and much-loved husband of Celia. Adored and loving father of Cath and Chris. Loving and much-loved grandad of Lydia, Tom, Alex, Anson, Mia and great grandad of Rowan. A dear brother of Alan and the late Thomas and Margaret. He was also a loving uncle to his nephews, niece and their families.

In 1972, Bert moved to Garstang with Celia, Cath and Chris and soon became a dedicated member of the SS Mary & Michael’s Roman Catholic community. His faith and commitment shone through his many contributions: assisting with parish duties, helping lay the foundations of Hummingbirds, the beloved local pre-school nursery, and later designing the stained-glass window in the Plessington Chapel.

Beyond his parish life, Bert embraced the community through his involvement with the Garstang Light Opera Group, where he found joy in singing and in the friendships he cultivated over the years.

Bert was, above all, a true gentleman. He will be remembered for his gentle nature, warm smile and appreciation for the simple joys of life. He was a faithful friend to many and deeply valued the companionship and gatherings he shared throughout his 53 years in Garstang.

May he rest in peace.

Bert’s Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary & St. Michaels RC Church, Garstang on Saturday 29th November at 11.00am before being laid to rest in the Churchyard.

Following the committal at the graveside, a warm invitation is extended to join the family at The Wyrebank for refreshments, to share stories, memories and continue celebrating Bert’s life.

Family flowers only please. Donations if desired can be made in memory of Bert to support the work of ‘The Psoriasis Association’ c/o funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

20/11/2025

In Loving Memory of Michael Hoyle – ‘Mick’
4th April 1937 – 5th November 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce and share the news that Michael Hoyle passed away peacefully in Royal Lancaster Infirmary on Wednesday 5th November 2025, at the age of 88.

A devoted husband to the late Pat. A dear brother, father, grandfather, brother in law and uncle.

Known affectionately to all his friends as “Mick,” he will be deeply missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

His warmth, kindness, and gentle presence leave a legacy of love that will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

His funeral service will take place at Lancaster & Morecambe Crematorium on Thursday 27th November at 11.30am.

Family flowers only please. Donations if preferred can be given in memory of Mick for St. John’s Hospice, Lancaster, c/o funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

17/11/2025

In Loving Memory of Wilfred Charles Breakell
27th June 1951 – 3rd November 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Wilfred (Wilf) Breakell. With his loving family at his side, Wilf died on Monday 3rd November at Royal Preston Hospital, aged 74 years.

He was the dearly loved and loving husband of Ruth. A much loved step-dad of Mandy, Sharon and Lorraine. Cherished and devoted grandad of Jessica, Melissa, Danielle, Lewis and Molly, and a treasured great grandad of Lexi, Theo, Ava and Willow.

His funeral service will take place at Lancaster & Morecambe Crematorium on Monday 24th November at 12.30pm.

Afterwards, you are warmly invited to join the family at the Farmers Arms in Garstang for refreshments and to continue celebrating Wilf’s life, sharing many stories and memories.

Family flowers only please. Should you wish to give a donation in memory of Wilf, it would be gratefully accepted to help support the vital work of NSPCC c/o funeral director.

The family kindly request that no black is worn. Instead, please wear something with colour to reflect Wilf’s life, personality and spirit.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

14/11/2025

In Loving Memory of Marilyn Ellen Butler
4th April 1937 – 24th October 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our wonderful Mum, Marilyn Ellen Butler. With her loving family by her side, she died peacefully on 24th October 2025 at Pilling Nursing Home, aged 88 years.

Born in Preston, Marilyn moved to Garstang in 1967 with her late husband, Derek. They were married for 65 years and had two children, Alastair and Debs. She was also an extremely proud Nanna to Edie and Alex.

Marilyn raised her family in Garstang and worked for several local businesses, including Windsor Woolies, Reed Rains, Ribble Buses and Haslams Accountants. She was a member of Garstang W.I. and helped with the local Brownie group on Kepple Lane.

An active and adventurous person, Marilyn loved walking. Especially hiking in the Lakeland Hills with Derek, a passion they shared throughout their lives. She also loved to travel and was a long-standing member of Garstang Bridge Club. Marilyn was a keen gardener, an amazing cook and an exceptional cake baker.

Above all, she was devoted to her family, as they were to her. She will be greatly missed, but there is comfort in knowing she is reunited with Derek once again.

The funeral service will take place at The Parish Church of St. Thomas Garstang on Thursday 20th November at 12noon, prior to committal at Lancaster and Morecambe Crematorium.

Afterwards, refreshments will be served at The Wyrebank where we will continue to celebrate and remember Marilyn’s life, reminiscing over many stories and memories.

Family flowers only please. If desired, donations in Marilyn’s memory will be shared between the Alzheimer’s Society and Alzheimer’s Research UK, c/o Greg Hodgkinson Funeral Directors.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

13/11/2025

In Loving Memory of Clifford Smith
31st December 1934 – 29th October 2025

It is with great sadness that we share the news that Clifford passed away peacefully in the care of Cornmill Nursing Home on Wednesday 29th October 2025, aged 90 years.

Clifford was the loving husband of the late Pamela. A much loved father and step-father to Kevin, Debra and David.

He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

His funeral, a celebration of Clifford’s life, will take place at Preston Crematorium on Monday 17th November at 12.45pm. Funeral attire not required.

Following the service, light refreshments will be served at The Plough at Grimsargh where we will continue to celebrate and remember Clifford’s life, sharing stories and memories.

Family flowers only please. Charitable donations can be given in memory of Cliff and would be greatly appreciated to support "Abbeyfield Fulwood" at Howard House, c/o funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

05/11/2025

In Loving Memory of James William Costain, ‘Jim’
15th August 1936 – 28th October 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of James ‘Jim’ Costain, late of Brooklands Drive, Garstang on Tuesday 28th October 2025, aged 89 years.

Jim was born in Lancaster on the 15th August 1936. He lived in Scotforth with his parents, William and Emily Costain, and his sister Cregeen. Jim married Pat Kavanagh on the 7th January 1961 and they had five children together: Catherine, David, Alison, James and Michael. He was a proud Grandad to 10; Katie, Daniel, Emily, Megan, Ellie, Isobel, Florence, Lottie, Lydia and William and Great Grandad to four; Tilly, Delilah, Freddie and Francesca.

Jim went to Scotforth Primary School and Lancaster Grammar School. He then trained for the merchant navy in Southampton. Jim travelled the world during his time in the merchant navy before becoming Captain whilst working for Townsend Thoresen. He left the navy in 1980 and retrained to become a teacher, working at Blackpool and Fylde College. First delivering training for cadets for the merchant navy and then for young people who needed extra support in their education.

Jim was a keen sports fan. He played tennis in his youth. He supported Manchester United in football and Lancashire in cricket and rugby. Jim followed Lancashire rugby across the country with his late brother-in-law, Rodney ‘Chas’ Cartner. The stories and trips with Chas are legendary.

He loved living in Garstang and enjoyed walking through the town chatting to friends to pick up the paper or go for a pint in the pub. Jim was an active member of St Mary and St Michael’s Church and his children attended the primary school. Jim was heavily involved in the North West Children’s Support Group. He attended their holidays in Carlisle and helped to drive the charity forward.

Jim and Pat were a team. They were rarely apart. He loved his family and friends very much and he leaves a close knit family unit. His example of loving and caring for those close to home and further away will be a lasting legacy.

His funeral service will take place at St Mary & St Michael’s RC Church on 21st November at 11.00am. He’ll be laid to rest in the churchyard close to his beloved son David who died aged 2 and a half. We will also be remembering David on this day, he will forever be in our thoughts.

Following the service, we will celebrate Jim’s life at the Wyrebank, The Moorings, Garstang for refreshments, music and good chat. There is no formal dress code for the funeral or wake.

Donations can be made to ‘North West Children’s Support Group’ and ‘Leukemia UK’ care of the funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

31/10/2025

In Loving Memory of Helma Acton
19th December 1940 – 15th October 2025

It is with great sadness we have been asked to announce and share the news that Helma sadly passed away in Royal Lancaster Infirmary on Wednesday 15th October, aged 84 years.

Helma was born in Duisburg, Germany, where she grew up before meeting her future husband, Neville Dandy, while he was stationed there with the army. After marrying, they moved to Garstang when Neville left the army in 1965, and together they built a loving home and family.

Helma was a devoted mother to Gillian and Dirk, and a proud grandmother and great-grandmother to her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Lee, Jade, Alicia, Carly, Elijah, Anthony, Anna, and their children. She took immense joy in watching each new generation grow and thrive.

A talented and sociable woman, Helma worked as a mobile hairdresser when she first arrived in Garstang, quickly becoming fluent in English and making many lifelong friends along the way. She later worked at ‘Lady Jane’s’ dress shop and ‘Just Julies’ in Garstang for nearly a decade before moving to Preston in 1986.

She remained close friends with Neville and continued her career as a perfume consultant at Debenhams until her early retirement.
In later years, Helma reconnected with an old friend, Ken Acton. They married, settling happily in Calder Vale in 2009. Through this marriage, she became a much-loved stepmother to Michelle Acton.

Helma had a deep love of travel. She delighted in cruises and adventures to faraway places, including Australia and frequently returned to Germany to visit her family and her lifelong best friend, Helga, with whom she shared a remarkable 70-year friendship.

Helma will be remembered for her warmth, her kindness, her laughter and her zest for life. She touched many lives and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Her funeral service will take place at St. John the Evangelist Church, Calder Vale on Monday 10th November at 1.30pm, before being laid to rest in the Churchyard, reunited with her beloved late husband Ken.

Family flowers only please. Donations if preferred can be made in memory of Helma to help support ‘Lymphoma Action’ c/o funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

24/10/2025

In Loving Memory of Graham Antony Gould
25th July 1947 – 15th October 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Graham Antony Gould, who left us on Wednesday 15th October 2025 after a long illness. His devoted wife Glenys and loving children Joanne, Jonathan, Alison and William were by his side at the end.

Graham was also a much-loved father-in-law to Kate, Rachel, Stuart and John, and a proud grandfather to Oliver, Evie, Daisy, Molly, Jessie, Ronnie, Oscar, and Louie.

After a successful 30 year career in banking, during which he rose to the position of Senior Bank Manager, Graham and his family settled in Garstang in 1985. He took early retirement shortly before his 50th birthday in 1997 and went on to enjoy many happy years pursuing his love of sport, travel and the theatre.

A funeral service to celebrate Graham’s life will take place at Preston Crematorium on Wednesday 5th November at 12.45pm. Following the service, the family warmly invite friends and loved ones to join them at The Royal Oak, Garstang to share memories and celebrate his life together.

Family flowers only please. Donations, if desired, may be made in Graham’s memory to support the vital work of St John’s Hospice, Lancaster c/o the funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

Garstang Funeral Home

12/12/2025

11/12/2025

10/12/2025

28/11/2025

24/11/2025

20/11/2025

17/11/2025

14/11/2025

13/11/2025

05/11/2025

31/10/2025

24/10/2025

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Practice

Shortcuts

Share