William Emery & Sons Ltd

General information

Funeral Directors William Emery & Sons are one of Stafford’s most respected family businesses. Established well over 100 years ago in 1890 it has about it an aura of tradition and quiet professionalism. The company combines a heritage of experience with a determination to improve their services and always ensure the highest of standards.

Established by William John Emery in 1890 at a time when the horse drawn hearse was in vogue before the introduction of the motor hearse. This is a service they still offer today for families who require traditional services. In 1922 the first motorised hearse was introduced in the Uk by Pargetters of Coventry. Just five years later in 1927 Emerys became the proud owner of Stafford’s first modern motor hearse based on an American Dodge chassis. The body was hand built by William Emery and his son Bill and painted by Lloyds of Stafford.

The family business has always been Stafford based. The original premises were in Browning Street, later being relocated a short distance away in County Road when larger premises were required. Subsequent expansion has taken place from those premises, which now incorporate a tasteful Chapel of Rest and modern facilities.

One part of the business that has always been a tradition is the fleet of vehicles that they have available. The hearse has been the same vehicle for 40 years and has recently been lovingly rstored to it’s former glory. A classic Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud hearse which is the flagship of the fleet and is backed up with a pair of modern Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit Limousines. The Limousines are a recent addition to the fleet and were built by coach-builders Coways of Westhoughton to the highest standards. They also have other modern vehicles which make up the fleet as well as a Horse Drawn Hearse for a more traditional funeral service. They can even provide a Motor Cycle Hearse for the motorbike enthusiast.

Emerys offer a comprehensive service which includes advice on legal requirements, all necessary funeral arrangements, help with press announcements, printing, catering and assistance with all things relating to funeral services. They also have an established floristry department providing an excellent service by “Flowers by Rebecca” with over 20 years experience.

The family prides itself on providing a sympathetic and caring service for the people of Stafford and outlying areas. They try to relieve the grieving family of many of the problems they face at a difficult time, pledging a 24 hour service.

The personal service is provided by the fifth generation of the Emery family. Chris, Nick and Matthew Emery are the members of the family at the head of the business today, carrying forward the highest standards and traditions of service of William Emery & Sons. Graham and Maurice Emery, although retired, still play an active role offering their experience and wisdom.

In recent years William Emery & Sons have moved into the field of Monumental Masonry. Emerys Monumental Services Ltd is the monumental branch of the company. They offer a comprehensive range of monuments including many popular granite memorials and a wide variety of bespoke designs.