Business Details
Emergency
services
Trusted Family Funeral Directors Since 1858
Established in 1858, G Wathall & Son Funeral Directors has served Derby and surrounding areas as a family-owned business for over 165 years. Our commitment to providing dignified, compassionate services has remained unwavering through five generations of family leadership. We offer comprehensive funeral planning, pre-paid funeral arrangements, and bespoke memorial solutions tailored to individual preferences. Our team of over 30 professionals maintains the highest standards of care while adapting to modern needs through innovative services like our Dandelions Bereavement Support Programme.Recognised for excellence through multiple industry awards, we combine traditional values with contemporary approaches to support families during challenging times. Our community involvement extends beyond funeral services through charitable initiatives and local partnerships. As one of the UK's longest-established funeral directors, we take pride in our reputation for reliability, transparency, and exceptional service quality.
Services
Funeral Arranging
Pre-paid Funeral Plans
Bereavement Support
Headstone Design
Cremation Services
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1858 with five generations of funeral service expertise
- 24/7 availability for immediate assistance during difficult times
- Personalised funeral planning with bespoke memorial options
- Award-winning bereavement support programmes for all age groups
- Recognised industry leadership through multiple local and national awards
Associations and certifications
- Golden Charter Limited
What people say
Caring and supportive
Made us feel comfortable
Exceptional staff
Personalised service
Professional and compassionate
Services
Funeral Arranging
We provide comprehensive funeral arrangement services tailored to individual preferences and cultural requirements. Our experienced team guides families through every step, from initial arrangements to final ceremonies. With offices across Derbyshire, we offer 24/7 support and maintain the highest standards of care and professionalism.
Pre-paid Funeral Plans
Our pre-paid funeral plans offer peace of mind by securing future funeral arrangements at today's prices. Plans include various options for personalisation while ensuring financial protection for families. We provide clear documentation and flexible payment options for these forward-thinking arrangements.
Bereavement Support
Dandelions Bereavement Support Programme offers comprehensive assistance through individual counselling, support groups, and specialised resources. Our trained professionals provide guidance for all age groups, including children's bereavement support and corporate grief management solutions for businesses.
Headstone Design
We create lasting memorials through bespoke headstone design and installation services. Working with expert stonemasons, we offer traditional and contemporary options that reflect personal tributes. Our service includes design consultation, material selection, and professional installation at chosen locations.
Cremation Services
We offer various cremation services including direct cremation, attended cremations, and bespoke ceremonies. Our packages accommodate different preferences while maintaining dignity and respect. We handle all necessary documentation and coordinate with crematoria across our service areas.
People
Helen Wathall
Managing Director
Fifth-generation funeral director with over 30 years' experience. Awarded MBE in 2018 for services to business and the community. Former president of The Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors. Leads the business with a commitment to traditional values and modern innovation.
Bec Wathall
Business Development Manager
Sixth-generation family member specialising in business development and community engagement. Manages digital presence and marketing initiatives. Focuses on expanding community support programmes and developing new service opportunities while maintaining family traditions.
Charlotte Wathall
Pre-paid Funeral Manager
Sixth-generation funeral director with expertise in pre-paid funeral planning. Trained as a funeral arranger and later specialising in later-life planning. Focuses on improving customer service and implementing efficient processes for funeral plan arrangements.
Paul Dowdy
Operations Manager
Experienced operations professional overseeing day-to-day funeral service delivery. Ensures consistent quality across all locations while maintaining the company's high standards of care and professionalism through staff training and service protocols.
Fay Bloor
Bereavement Support Coordinator
Specialist in grief counselling and mental health support. Coordinates the Dandelions Bereavement Support Programme, providing individual and group sessions. Trained in various therapeutic approaches to help people navigate their bereavement journey effectively.
Questions
What services does Wathall's Funeral Services offer?
We provide comprehensive funeral arrangements, pre-paid funeral plans, headstone design and installation, bereavement support programmes, and both traditional and non-traditional funeral services tailored to individual preferences.
Are your services available outside regular business hours?
Yes, our team is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to assist with immediate needs and provide support whenever required by families during difficult times.
Can I personalise my funeral arrangements?
Absolutely. We specialise in creating bespoke funerals that reflect individual personalities and wishes. From unique ceremonies to specific memorial details, our experienced team helps create meaningful tributes.
Do you offer bereavement support after the funeral?
Yes, our Dandelions Bereavement Support Programme provides ongoing assistance through individual counselling, support groups, and resources for all age groups, including children and corporate clients.
How can I pre-plan a funeral with Wathall's?
We offer pre-paid funeral plans that allow you to arrange and secure your funeral details in advance. Our advisors will guide you through options, documentation, and payment plans to provide peace of mind for you and your family.
What areas do you serve?
We operate from seven locations across Derbyshire, serving Derby, Allestree, Alvaston, Ashbourne, Borrowash, Burton-on-Trent, Chaddesden, and Littleover, with comprehensive coverage throughout the region.
