Simple Funerals

Upon my brother's death we felt a great vacuum and sadness in our lives and the thought of choosing a Funeral Director was an unwelcome necessity but an obviously important one. We had attended a funeral earlier that year and I was impressed at the smoothness of the proceedings. I found out it was Albany and we made enquiries.
Straightaway we were welcomed into a very relaxing meeting room and put at ease with Jo's sensitive caring and attentive approach. There was also a genuine feeling that she empathised with our grief and that she would do all that she could to make the funeral into what we wanted. There was no time pressure and she offered advice and support for the children and what may or may not be suitable. When you are in shock and grieving it is almost impossible to think clearly, yet Jo steered us through the issues and we were instantly happy to accept her help.
She ran through many options including a cardboard coffin, which the children decorated.
The staff were very friendly and supportive, punctual and providing the vital support on the funeral day.
When you have someone like Jo helping, you appreciate the vital importance in getting an occasion such as this right. We cannot praise Jo and all at Albany highly enough and would recommend her to provide the right balance and care at such a sad occasion.

I first heard about Albany Funerals when a 7 year old boy died suddenly in the playground of my grand-daughter's school, it was just before Christmas and we heard that Albany Funerals arranged for a member of staff to be at their premises during the Christmas period to enable the family to be with their child during that tragic time. When my Mother died a few years later Albany was the obvious choice for me, so consequently I met Jo and her carefully selected staff who acted like an extended family and helped in every aspect of what could have been a total nightmare.
Jo is a 100% kind, caring and understanding person which is a rarity in any walk of life and she can identify with families about their loss.
Jo annually arranges a balloon release in memory of deceased loved ones which is a very moving experience, attended by many people and also raises money for the Heart of Kent Hospice.
There is a coffee morning once a month for bereaved relatives, where Jo provides coffee, her home made cakes, companionship and love, with each visitor treated like a much loved relative.
I recently asked Jo why the lights were left on in her premises all night and she told me that to grieving families it looks like their loved ones are not alone. I have often thought about this and it moves me to tears because she is so right. If ever there was a person completely suited to their job then it is her. We have been back to visit her because she had the unique ability to make an undertaker's premises feel like a friendly home and everyone of her well picked staff feel like friends.

Bereavement is a difficult and stressful time, but from our first meeting we were cared for in a compassionate way and given time to consider our wishes with no pressure. Sam was caring and reassuring, completely putting our minds at rest over every little detail. Albany provided an excellent service from the start. The team were friendly, respectful and nothing was too much trouble. I would have no hesitation in recommending them!