Who are the best funeral directors in Canberra? Photo: File.
Dealing with the passing of a loved one can be an overwhelming and emotionally consuming time. Riding wave of grief is often challenging enough on its own; let alone having to consider what comes next.
Navigating these uncharted waters can be difficult; particularly given that most of us have little experience managing what comes next. The last thing many wish to handle are the organisational, administrative, and legal tasks needed to put a loved one to rest.
Enlisting the support of a funeral director can help to ease the burden and minimise stress during this difficult time. While the role of a funeral director is wide-ranging; they effectively plan, coordinate, and execute funeral arrangements. Although engaging a funeral director it is not a legal requirement, their expertise can ensure plans flow more smoothy.
If you have recently lost a loved one or simply seeking preparation, finding the right funeral director is important. Be sure that you are properly informed before making any decisions and consider seeking independent professional advice. For those ready to explore further, our shortlist of the region’s leading funeral directors may help.
What makes a great funeral director?
Great funeral directors work alongside their client’s providing guidance and managing arrangements that ultimately take care of the dearly departed. We feel the best funeral directors each possess a bit of the following:
- Reputable. The best funeral directors are often the most reputable. In an industry without regulation, assessing a provider’s reputation is often a great way to start. Look for feedback from past clients along with recommendations from family and friends. Also consider the tenure of business as some of the most experienced bringing decades of insight to the table. Finally, consider their stance within their professional community. Note any memberships such as those with peak industry body, the Australian Funeral Directors Association.
- Administrative excellence. The best funeral directors are meticulous administrators. Highly competent and impeccably organised, your funeral direct should ideally be able to take on as much or as little as needed. Consider your own personal circumstances and where their help is most advantageous. From administrative paperwork through to organising third parties and managing all logistical arrangements they have it covered.
- Compassionate care. While they wear many hats, arguably the most important role of a funeral director is to provide compassionate care. They do this by going above and beyond, ensuring the deceased is looked after with both dignity and respect. It also means providing empathy and support; allowing families to say goodbye with a greater sense of peace. Often, the best way to assess a funeral director’s disposition is to meet with them personally. Reflect on your connection, and whether they were able to instinctively put you at ease. Ultimately the right funeral director is the one that makes you feel most comfortable.
- Personalised memorial. Whether it be to commemorate life or honour wishes, many of us choose to host a funeral or memorial service. As one of the final acknowledgements of our dearly departed, taking the time to plan this occasion is important. Here, funeral directors work with families to orchestrate a service that is unique as it is memorable. The best funeral directors take this further, personalising the occasion perfectly.
- Clear contracts. Much like everything, funerals are subject to a range of fees and charges. Some costs are unavoidable, whilst others are options aspects for consideration. The best funeral directors work clients, devising plans that accommodate both wishes and budgets. The best provide transparent contracts with itemised costs, inclusions, terms and conditions. Given the investment, this is an area worth researching so be sure to do your homework. And as always, be sure to seek some independent advice.
The best funeral directors in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and maintain a minimum average of 4/5 stars on both Google and Facebook reviews.
William Cole Funerals
When a loved one passes away, you need a gentle, experienced hand to guide you through the difficult process of saying goodbye. The right funeral will celebrate the things that made them so special, and allow you and your family to say a final, peaceful farewell.
Since first opening their doors in 1990, William Cole Funerals has carefully curated a reputation for compassionate, thoughtful and highly personalised service. One of only a few truly family-run funeral homes left in the ACT, this business is led by Bill and Christine Cole alongside their children and grandchildren.
William Cole Funerals delivers seamless funeral experiences that authentically represent the life, personality and beliefs of the person who has died. Funeral planning and delivery are covered end to end, including service, music and slideshows, flowers, hearses, coffins and caskets. The team also liases directly with cemeteries and crematoriums to organise burial or cremation on families' behalf, and works with your chosen minister or celebrant to design a fitting service.
The funeral home even has its own non-denominational chapel.
Tailoring your loved one's funeral is the Coles' speciality and no request is too unique. Bill's daughter, Judy, has organised burials at sea and on private properties, and swapped out the traditional hearse for everything from utes to horse drawn carriages.
Dianne Orr shared on Google, “I was very happy with William Cole Funerals. The compassionate staff did everything possible to make sure the organising of the service and the actual day ran smoothly. I appreciated this during such a stressful and overwhelmingly sad time.”
Lovell Meizer Funerals
Founded in 2019, Lovell Meizer Funerals have risen through the ranks as one of the regions most prominent funeral directors. Run by Kristy and Shiane Lovell Meizer along with their all-female team, they bring a wealth of highly valued experience gained over two decades.
Founded on believe that tributes should be based on their client’s choice, they offer a range of comprehensive services. From memorials, burials, and cremations, all companied with as much or as little as preferred their team can execute it all.
Susan McInnes shared this review on Google, “I cannot praise Kristy and Shi of Lovell Meizer Funerals enough for the care and attention they showed in taking care of my mum's recent funeral. They were wonderful in ensuring my mother was treated with dignity and compassion, nothing was a bother to them, and they truly looked after every detail. Highly recommended for their compassion, empathy, and attention to detail.”
Simple Goodbyes
As one of the regions newer funeral director services, Simple Goodbyes was founded on the ethos of providing quality funeral services at affordable prices. Owner-operators Peter Dinn and Mark Copley bring over thirty years combined experience, and pride themselves on providing simple, unique, and dignified solutions to farewell loved ones.
Simple Goodbyes offer a range of services from funerals to burials and non-attendance ceremonies. With a clear pricing structure, added value offerings, and optional items, they have quickly established a reputation for their diligence and compassion.
Trish Favretto-Dicer had this to say on Google, “Peter made what was an otherwise extremely sorrowful and stressful time a little easier. The family felt supported and cared for. All services, special requests and even the unanticipated needs were met without us really having to do much at all…. This is the second funeral Peter has presided over for our family and I cannot recommend Simple Goodbyes enough. They embody a loving touch and authentic care to carry and support the family through a very sad time in our lives.”
Grantly Perry & Sons
Grantley Perry & Sons are a locally owned, independent funeral company. Since first opening their doors close to thirty years ago, they have successfully serviced the region with quality funeral and bereavement services.
Known for providing a professional service with a personalised touch they offer services for all situations, nationalities, and religious denominations. For years of experience, understanding, and a respect of traditional values, consider Grantly Perry & Sons.
Sophie H shared her experience on Google, “Thank you to Grantly Perry and Sons for caring for our dad and supporting us to lay him to rest. Alex was extremely organised, worked amazingly with a short timeframe and was respectful and honoured all our wishes throughout the process.”
Toscan Dinn Funerals
As one of Canberra’s finest funeral service providers, Toscan Dinn stands as the funeral directors of choice for many local families. Since first opening their doors in 2005, they have flourished into one of the region’s most reputable funeral providers.
Founded on the principals of offering simple choices, an honest approach, and dignified care, Toscan Dinn Funerals proudly provide tailored services which reflect the uniqueness of loved ones in their care.
As Kimba Griffin stated on Google, “Peter, Paul, Toby, Sam and team were wonderful to work with to farewell my father. They are highly experienced, but also flexible and open-minded, following the needs and wants of the families they care for. Special thanks go to Paul Compton for his funeral direction on the day, his cheerful and caring disposition and attention to detail.”
Considering other alternatives? Perhaps our article on the best funeral and cremation services may help. Should you require assistance managing the affairs of a loved one, take a look at our articles on the best wills and estate lawyers and the best probate services. And, for help with grief and loss contact The Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement on 1800 642 066.
Your experience with funeral directors in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the funeral directors listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a funeral director and how can they help?
Funeral directors plan and coordinate arrangements funeral arrangements in accordance with the wishes of the deceased or their relatives. Their role usually entails organising a venue for the service, liaising with celebrants or clergy; completion and lodgement of legal procedures and administration; placement of any press notices; transport and care for the deceased; preparation and viewing; and cremation or burial. Services and costs do vary between services so be sure to do your research.
What funeral service options are available?
Common funeral service options include a direct committal, single service, or dual service. In a direct committal a funeral director carries out all arrangements without a service or family attendance. In a single service, arrangements are generally made for mourners to attend either a committal or a funeral service. A dual service on the other hand typically includes both a committal and a funeral service. For further details on each contact your local cemetery, crematorium, or funeral director.
What do funerals cost?
Funeral costs typically depend on the nature of services selected and of course inclusions. According to the Australian governments Moneysmart website, funerals costs can start from about $4,000 for a basic cremation service to upwards of $15,000 or more for an elaborate burial. For further guidance consult your local funeral director and conduct some independent research.
What costs are typically involved with a funeral?
When arranging a funeral, there are several typical inclusions that each influence overall cost. These Variables include the addition of service or wake, funeral director fess, transport and coffin, death certificates and permits, burial or cremation, and a cemetery plot. Other expenses may include a celebrant or clergy, floral arrangements, catering, and public notices. Be sure to request and review itemised quotes before selecting your chosen funeral service or director.
Who is obligated to pay for the funeral?
Generally, the person organising and signing the contract for a funeral is legally responsible for payment. Should there be enough funds within the estate, funeral expenses may be repaid from here also. Moreover, planned arrangements such as pre-paid funerals, funeral bonds or insurance, and life insurance may also help. To understand this further seek professional advice.
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