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Photograph by Jo Turner

About us

We are an independent funeral director and as a family run business, we have been helping customers since 1877 arrange and manage every aspect of their loved one’s funeral.

Fords are a family run business that was started in 1877 by George Ford. He had moved from the West Country to Oakham in Rutland. His first job was an upholsterer working for John Royce who was based on Church Street.

During the 5 years George spent there he also became skilled in French polishing and cabinet making. In the 19th century it was the cabinet makers who made the coffins. Hence Fords of Oakham was formed as an independent funeral director.  

George soon made the move to work for himself and was originally based in Penn Street before settling down in Church Street. Our first shop was built here and this is where our funeral services operate from today. The business has been passed down through the generations and is still managed by the direct descendants of George Ford.

Photograph by Jo Turner

Support for our customers when you need it the most

As an established business there are certain values that are really important to us. Providing a first-class service to all our customers is our main priority. It is a privilege to be asked to arrange any funeral. We understand that this is such a personal and emotional event.

At Fords we pride ourselves on building good relationships with all our customers. It is a vital element of what we do. You are opening the door and letting us into your family, at a time when you need the most support, which is why all our staff are trained and specialists in providing the best advice at this difficult time. 

Meet the team

Richard White

Managing Director

Richard has followed in his great, great Grandad’s footsteps and continues to work in the business today. As a teenager he worked alongside his Father and took over the business in 2014. Richard has a very calm demeanour and gently guides people through all the proceedings during such a difficult time in their lives.  

Jenny Ireland

Funeral Arranger 

Jenny previously worked as a Counsellor for the NHS before joining the funeral business.   
She has a passion for helping others and strives to make a difference in the lives of the families she cares for.  She joined Fords in December 2020.  

Juliana White

Office Manager

Juliana is married to Richard and ensures everything runs smoothly in the office.

Fords of Oakham are members of the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD).

What our customers say about us

“Just to say thank you once again for your excellent arrangements for my husband’s funeral. A difficult day made much easier.”
“I would like to thank you for your organisation and all of the team who contributed to his funeral service and cremation service. It couldn’t have been better, with gratitude.”
“Thank you very much for the professionalism and sincerity at my Mum’s funeral.”
“We can’t thank you enough for all your help, advice, guidance and kindness in making the arrangements for this funeral. We found this to be of great comfort during a sad and difficult time. All the arrangements and organisation were absolutely first class and conducted in the most sympathetic and professional way.”
“Thank you so much for your patience and understanding whilst dealing with us all when arranging this funeral.”
“You and your team made a sad occasion as happy as it could possibly be. You did us proud. Thanks again.”
“Thank you so much for making the funeral so professional. Everything went so well and you and your staff were amazing. A difficult day managed beautifully. Thank you again.”