Here at Tong & Peryer, we see firsthand the dedication, compassion, and resilience that funeral directors and support staff bring to their roles every day. While much of their work happens behind the scenes, the impact they have is felt deeply by every family they care for.
So today, we’re taking a moment to honour all funeral professionals everywhere. Here are ten heartfelt reasons the world should be thankful for them:
1. They’re everyday superheroes
Funeral professionals step up when others are at their most vulnerable. They organise complex arrangements under pressure, offer comfort during unimaginable grief, and somehow remain calm, kind, and composed. If that’s not heroic, what is?
2. They offer wisdom you can’t find in books
After witnessing so many lives honoured and remembered, funeral professionals develop a unique perspective on what truly matters. Their stories, empathy, and gentle reminders help many of us reflect on how we live—and how we love.
3. They genuinely love what they do
This work isn’t a job; it’s a calling. It takes a special kind of person to walk alongside grieving families with patience and care. Funeral professionals are passionate about helping others during some of life’s most difficult days.
4. They carry the weight of many
Managing a service, balancing expectations, supporting multiple families—all while maintaining dignity and professionalism—is no small feat. Yet funeral professionals do it daily, often with little recognition.
5. They are healers of the heart
While doctors mend the body and therapists support the mind, funeral professionals care for the grieving heart. They help people begin to heal by creating meaningful goodbyes and offering a steady presence in the storm.
6. They handle the unthinkable
From unique family requests to challenging circumstances, funeral professionals navigate it all. Their calm under pressure and respect for every situation—no matter how unusual—is something truly admirable.
7. They bring clarity during chaos
When a loved one dies, there’s so much to think about—paperwork, decisions, logistics. Funeral professionals step in and gently guide families through, making the overwhelming feel manageable.
8. They know how to honour a life, beautifully
Whether it’s a traditional farewell, a tree planting, a haka, or even turning ashes into a memorial stone—funeral directors are experts in celebrating life in ways that are personal, powerful, and unforgettable.
9. They’re always on call
Grief doesn’t keep office hours, and neither do funeral professionals. Whether it’s late at night, a public holiday, or the early hours of the morning, we’re ready to help, 24/7.
10. They do it all expecting nothing in return
Most funeral professionals aren’t in it for accolades or applause. What fuels them are the quiet thanks, the handwritten notes, and the knowledge that they’ve made a difference in someone’s life during a time of need.
Let’s not forget to thank the funeral professionals who walk beside us in our hardest moments.
At Tong & Peryer, we’re proud to be part of a profession that leads with heart, humanity, and humility. We see the value in every life and the love in every goodbye.
To all funeral professionals everywhere: thank you. The world is better because of you.
