M. Rushton Funeral Directors

05/11/2025

This month we will be exploring the traditional do’s and don’ts of attending a funeral.

Before the Funeral.

Dress with respect. Choose modest, dark clothing unless told otherwise. Aim for neat and understated if unsure. In the UK it is traditional to wear black but be aware that some religions and cultures favour different colours for mourning. Some people may have requested bright colours, other clothing or accessories (you will usually be told of this wish prior to the funeral).

Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes before the service begins. This can be helpful if you experience minor traffic delays or need to find parking, it can also show respect and avoids disrupting the ceremony.

Part 2 will be next week.

29/10/2025

Take care of yourself.

During grief, self-care is crucial. Even though it's hard, try to maintain a routine. Staying active and eating well can help, as can avoiding alcohol or other substances.

It's not selfish to look after yourself—you deserve to heal, and these small steps can make a big difference.

29/10/2025

Coping With Grief Part 5

Take care of yourself.

During grief, self-care is crucial. Even though it's hard, try to maintain a routine. However, if your routine needs to change for your mental health it is important to do so.

Planning activities around important dates can help you feel less overwhelmed or lost on the day.

Staying active and eating well can help, as can avoiding alcohol or other substances.

It's not selfish to look after yourself - you deserve to heal, you deserve to find moments of joy and laughter - these small steps can make a big difference.

We carry grief with us always, time does not diminish it, but it can feel lighter.

We hope you have found these weekly posts helpful.

Please know you are not alone, and do seek help if you need it.

27/10/2025

Simon Goff and Daisy walk 88 miles, raising £293 for Teenage Cancer Trust

Simon Goff, Area Development Manager for Funeral Partners Surrey Area, has completed the Walk 60 Miles with Your Dog challenge alongside his dog Daisy, covering an impressive 88 miles throughout September.

Together, they’ve raised £293 in support of Teenage Cancer Trust. Simon extends his heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated and supported the journey.

Contributions are still welcome via https://ow.ly/XQYo50Xfzpg

26/10/2025

Some lovely ideas here from Cruse Bereavement Support ❤️

When someone dies, it’s natural to fear losing their memory. While you’ll never forget them, finding ways to honour their life can help.

On our website, we've shared some suggestions of ways to remember- from creating a memory box or writing a letter to donating to charity:

https://ow.ly/3j6C50XhEle

If you have any suggestions of ways to remember someone, please share them in the comments 💜

25/10/2025

As the clocks change ... some very helpful information from Cruse Bereavement Support 🍂

Just like grief, everybody feels differently about seasonal changes.

In our latest blog, we explore the affect seasonal change can have on us, both physically and emotionally. We also share some of our tips for supporting our wellbeing as we head into winter.

Find out more ⬇️

https://ow.ly/Evbf50XhzqL

24/10/2025

Farthing Funeral Service was honoured to support a unique farewell last week at Seven Hills Crematorium, where a Morgan race car was displayed as part of the service.

The tribute reflected the gentleman’s lifelong passion and achievements in motorsport, creating a memorable moment for all in attendance.

22/10/2025

Understand the stages of grief.

Grief is complex, but understanding the five stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance can help.

Recognising where you are in this process can make sense of your emotions and reassure you that you are making progress, even if it feels slow.

22/10/2025

Coping With Grief Part 4

Understand the stages of grief.

Grief is complex, but understanding the five stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance can help.

Recognising where you are in this process can make sense of your emotions and reassure you that you are making progress, even if it feels slow. However, it is important to remember that the stages are not always linear, we can jump from one stage to the other and back sometimes, this is normal too.

Remember, if your grief feels overwhelming and you would like support, to reach out to one the many grief charities and organisations, or to your GP.

You are not alone.

20/10/2025

A Day Behind the Scenes at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance

Paul and Kim from Diamond & Son Funeral Directors had the privilege of attending an exclusive tour at the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA) Airbase in Thruxton.

Highlights of the day included meeting the pilot and crew who dedicated themselves to responding to emergencies across the region—often in the most challenging conditions and the chance to explore one of the charity’s helicopters up close.

The tour offered them a deeper understanding of the logistics, training, and rapid response protocols that made HIOWAA such a critical part of the emergency services.

Paul and Kim expressed deep gratitude to the HIOWAA team for hosting them and for the tireless work they did.

16/10/2025

We cherish every single kind word, and can not thank you enough, for thinking of us at such a difficult time. Thank You ❤️

15/10/2025

Michael and I have lit our candle (shown below), it is shining brightly to remember our babies taken too soon. We remember them and we also remember and honour all the babies taken too soon in our community and around the world. We send our heartfelt love and condolences to everyone who is missing their babies today and every day. We see you and feel your loss. You are not alone ❤️

15/10/2025

Seek out support.

Finding professional support for grief can be a huge help. Joining a support group, either online or in person, connects you with people who truly understand.

Talking to a grief counsellor or psychotherapist can also help you work through deeper feelings and find a way forward.

15/10/2025

Today, people around the world light candles at 7 p.m. to honour babies lost during pregnancy, childbirth, or infancy.

This global wave of light symbolises love, remembrance, and support.

Join us by lighting a candle and placing it in your window.

Share your tribute online to help raise awareness and support grieving families.

Michael and I will be lighting our candles and sharing it with you this evening.

Thinking of you all, you are not alone.

15/10/2025

Coping With Grief Part 3

Seek out support.

Finding professional support for grief can be a huge help.

Joining a support group, either online or in person, connects you with people who truly understand.

Talking to a grief counsellor or psychotherapist can also help you work through deeper feelings and find a way forward.

There are many wonderful charities and organisations that offer grief support, there are also private counsellors or you can ask your GP for support.

14/10/2025

Cruse Bereavement Support offer helpful information and wonderful support.

We will all face grief in our lives, and yet all of our experiences will be different 💜

There is so much more to grief than people often realise, and there is no 'right' way to grieve.

For more information about grief and available support, please visit our website:

https://ow.ly/jrEy50XaYKM

13/10/2025

Humphris Funerals celebrates 90 Years of sponsorship with Banbury United FC

Wayne Farrell, Chairman of Banbury United FC, commented: “Through wars, changes in Club ownership and various team promotions and relegations, Humphris Funerals’ support of Banbury United has been steadfast. It’s a clear demonstration of a business that understands commitment and service to the community”

10/10/2025

Let's talk mental health.

World mental health day is an opportunity to talk about your mental health and make space for others to do the same.

Starting a conversation isn't always easy, whether you’re opening up or checking in on a loved one.

If you’re sharing, choose someone you trust and a comfortable space. Be prepared for their reaction—give them time to process.

If you're listening, give them your full attention, ask questions, and ask how you can help.

10/10/2025

Let's talk mental health.

World mental health day is an opportunity to talk about your mental health and make space for others to do the same.

Starting a conversation isn't always easy, whether you’re opening up or checking in on a loved one.

If you’re sharing, choose someone you trust and a comfortable space. Be prepared for their reaction—give them time to process.

If you're listening, give them your full attention, ask questions, and ask how you can help.

If you are struggling please do reach out for support from one of the many mental health charities and organisations, such as or to your GP.

You are not alone.

09/10/2025

Welcoming Michael G Ryan Son & Daughters to the Funeral Partners Family

We’re delighted to announce that Michael G Ryan Son & Daughters, serving families across Newport and Cardiff since 1998, has joined the Funeral Partners family.

Founded by Mike Ryan and now led alongside his daughters Louise and Rachael, the business continues to be guided by the same trusted team, with Mike and Louise remaining actively involved in its day-to-day operations. Their dedication to delivering compassionate, professional care remains unchanged.

This marks our third acquisition in Wales, as we continue to expand our presence and deepen our commitment to supporting communities across the region.

We’re proud to stand alongside Michael G Ryan Son & Daughters as they continue their legacy of service, now with the added support and resources of Funeral Partners.

08/10/2025

Talk to friends and family.

Expressing grief is tough, but talking to a trusted person can help.

Friends and family may feel awkward, so reassure them you just need a listening ear, not advice. Be open and tell them what you need, like, "It would really help me to have permission to talk about my grief right now."

Sharing memories of your loved one can become a healing journey which you can share with those who knew them. Learning about and reflecting on your loved one whilst simultaneously allowing yourself to say goodbye.

06/10/2025

On Saturday, 6th September, our team at Murray’s Funeral Directors in Findern proudly took part in a Memory Walk, joining others in honouring loved ones.

It was a meaningful day filled with reflection, connection, and community spirit. The team were grateful to walk alongside families, friends, and supporters—all united by a shared cause.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined and helped make the event so special.

03/10/2025

Grand Opening – Pinks Funeral Directors, Caterham

On 1st August, we proudly celebrated the grand opening of our new Pinks Funeral Directors branch in Caterham. While the location is new, Pinks has a long-standing legacy of compassionate care, and we’re thrilled to extend that tradition into the Caterham community.

The event was a fantastic success, thanks to the dedication of Karen, our Area Development Manager, and the brilliant team at Pinks who worked tirelessly to prepare the branch and welcome guests.

We were honoured to be joined by The Hon. Councillor Mike Crane, Chairman of Tandridge District Council, whose presence added a special touch to the occasion.

A highlight of the day was Caterham Town Crier and valued team member Sonia, who brought tradition and ceremony to life with her official duties—making the celebration truly memorable.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in marking this exciting new chapter for Pinks in Caterham.