It’s been just over four years since John Delanoy and Julie Stout launched Delanoy Funeral Services, and what a journey it has been!
Here’s a look at their inspiring journey to transform the way funerals are conducted..
Four years ago, a mutual friend introduced John, a fifth-generation funeral director, to Julie, a successful marketeer. With a shared vision for change, they teamed up to create one of the region’s most successful funeral firms.
Julie reflects: “It’s hard to believe it’s been over four years since we launched Delanoy Funeral Services. So much has happened, and those dark, Covid days seem like a distant memory now. We’ve conducted hundreds of funerals, each with a personal touch, and really feel like we’re at the heart of our community.”
Since their launch in August 2020, John and Julie have grown the business, adding new personnel and expanding their fleet to include a new electric eco-friendly private ambulance—the first of its kind in the area. Their fleet now boasts six vehicles, including two private ambulances, one Jaguar hearse, two Jaguar limousines, and an XF Jaguar car.
Their impressive collection of awards includes the ‘Best Family Run Funeral Service’ by the Global 100 – 2024 and the Enterprise Award for the ‘Best Family Run Funeral Directors’ 2023 for County Durham by SME News, among others. Julie has also produced some really heartfelt video testimonials, where families talk about their experience with Delanoy Funeral Services. These can be viewed on the company website delanoyfuneralservices.co.uk and their Facebook page.
John added: “The wonderful feedback we’ve received from families is the most rewarding part of our journey. Saying goodbye is never easy, but with our help, we’re able to conduct truly personal funerals. Julie’s creative tribute videos and personalised service sheets amongst other memorabilia have been particularly well-received, offering families a unique keepsake.”
Julie said: “Meeting John and coming into this industry was the best thing to happen to me. This job gives me so much pleasure, knowing we’re making a real difference in the way people say their goodbyes. If we can make that final journey a little easier and bring some comfort to families, then we’ve done our job.”
As they look ahead to year five, John and Julie plan to invest further and expand their team, continuing their mission to transform the funeral industry and support their community.
Julie added: “Thank you for supporting Delanoy Funeral Services. Here’s to many more years of compassionate service and innovation.”
delanoyfuneralservices.co.uk