10/03/2025
A Welcome Return to Where it All Began for James Ray
We’re excited to share that James Ray, an experienced and respected Funeral Director, has returned to his roots in the South West following a recent promotion to Regional Director for Southern England, Wales, and North London at Funeral Partners. 🌟
James began his career in 2000 at a local Funeral Directors in Teignmouth before joining Drakes of Torbay in 2003, where he quickly became a trusted name in the community, supporting families during their most difficult times.
James’s journey then took him to Surrey, where he successfully grew a portfolio of funeral businesses, specialising in serving diverse communities, including Muslim, Italian, and Nepalese funerals.
His role eventually expanded into Berkshire and North London, but now he’s back in Devon, overseeing our exceptional network that includes Drakes, Torbay & District Funeral Directors and JH Way Funeral Services.
James said: “It is wonderful to see so many familiar faces, within the teams in Torbay and from Teignmouth, like Caz Denning who also brings 23 years of service and dedication to the industry.
“I originally got into the industry after seeing a role advertised, but someone told me the job wouldn’t suit me. I’ve always had a desire to prove people wrong and have since found that helping people when they are at a low ebb is the most rewarding experience you can have.”
The funeral business is a fixture in James’ family with his wife Paula working as a Regional Support Manager and eldest son Callum enjoying his role as a Funeral Manager in Berkshire and Oxfordshire. His youngest son Ben is studying at university in Dundee.
"I am excited to return to Devon and continue my journey with Funeral Partners. I look forward to working with our dedicated team to support families during their most challenging times.”
Matthew Barber, Chief Operating Officer at Funeral Partners said: "We are thrilled to welcome James back to Devon, and are excited that he agreed to lead the way in our largest region.
“His extensive experience and dedication to providing compassionate and personalised funeral services make him an invaluable addition to our team."
Please join us in congratulating James on this exciting new chapter of his career with Funeral Partners!
We have our own on-site service venue in Alcester. We’re also available 24 hours a day on the phone.
