James Brown & Sons Funeral Directors

James Brown & Sons Funeral Directors Our caring and experienced team of funeral directors provide a full range of funeral services to the local community.

Local funeral directors providing a friendly, professional service to the local community with branches located in Belfast - Newtownards Road, Dundonald, Belfast - Lisburn Road, Dunmurry, Belfast - Knockbreda Road and Whiteabbey We can assist with a range of needs from bespoke, personal funeral services to simple cremations. We can be contacted by phone 24 hours a day and will be available to support you throughout your time of need.

KENNA, RON – 16th October 2025 Passed suddenly.Dearly beloved husband of Jennifer, devoted father to Nicholas and Bianca...
27/10/2025

KENNA, RON – 16th October 2025 Passed suddenly.

Dearly beloved husband of Jennifer, devoted father to Nicholas and Bianca Kenna. Treasured son of the late Gertrude Kenna, and survived by his father Ronnie Kenna. Loving brother of Amanda and Karen, and brother-in-law Alan. Cherished son-in-law of Heather, the late Robert Baum, and brother-in-law of Jessica and Sarah. A much-loved uncle to George, Orren, Joshua, Reuben, Travis, and Sydney, and adored by countless aunts, uncles, cousins, and his beloved fur babies Loki, Juno, Jasper, and Bella, together now with Saber, Harpo, and Ruby (deceased).

As a proud member of the Northern Irish diaspora, Ron spent much of his life in England and the United States, where he was married and built a wide network of friendships before returning home to Northern Ireland.

Ron was an innovator and trailblazer — known as the man who, together with his wife Jennifer, brought the celebration of culture, community, and shared joy to the streets of Belfast, later expanding to London, Liverpool, and most recently Manchester.

Since founding Wee Toast Tours in 2014, Ron and Jennifer helped raise over £1.5 million for charity, connecting people from all walks of life through laughter, music, and a shared love of life.

Funeral Arrangements

Funeral entrusted to Brown Funeral Directors.

Monday, 27th October 2025

• 2:30pm – Leaving the family home, 42 Marlborough Park North,
Belfast
• 3:30pm – Service at St. Aidan’s Church, Donegal Road
• 5:20pm – Cremation at Roselawn Cemetery
• 7:00pm onwards – Celebration of Life, The Chelsea, Lisburn
Road, Belfast.

Take care of yourself. During grief, self-care is crucial. Even though it's hard, try to maintain a routine. Staying act...
27/10/2025

Take care of yourself.

During grief, self-care is crucial. Even though it's hard, try to maintain a routine. Staying active and eating well can help, as can avoiding alcohol or other substances.

It's not selfish to look after yourself—you deserve to heal, and these small steps can make a big difference.

Kennedy David Meneillypassed away 23rd October 2025Loving husband to Lynda.Adored father to Simon (Pauline), Graeme (Jil...
24/10/2025

Kennedy David Meneilly

passed away 23rd October 2025
Loving husband to Lynda.
Adored father to Simon (Pauline), Graeme (Jill) and Elaine (Brian).
Grandfather to Jack, Erin, Finlay, Lewis, Brooke, Callum, Macy, Amy, Quinn, Logan and Freddie.
Brother to Christine & Margaret (Jim).
A funeral service will be held on Friday 31st October in Roselawn Crematorium at 4pm.

House strictly private

Family flowers only.

Rest in peace.

Understand the stages of grief. Grief is complex, but understanding the five stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depressi...
24/10/2025

Understand the stages of grief.

Grief is complex, but understanding the five stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance can help.

Recognising where you are in this process can make sense of your emotions and reassure you that you are making progress, even if it feels slow.

Clarke, Trevor.  20th October 2025, peacefully in hospital. Beloved partner of Joanne, much loved brother to Linda, brot...
22/10/2025

Clarke, Trevor. 20th October 2025, peacefully in hospital. Beloved partner of Joanne, much loved brother to Linda, brother-in-law to Andy, cherished uncle of Adrian and Emma and her partner John, and great uncle of Nathan. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday 28th October at 10.00am in James Brown & Sons Funeral Home, 300 Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 1HF followed by Cremation 11.20am in Roselawn Crematorium. Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu, if so desired, can be made to Macmillan Cancer Support via Trevor’s MuchLoved tribute page, or to Rescue Cats NI directly. Trevor will be resting at the family home for all those wishing to pay respects.

Seek out support. Finding professional support for grief can be a huge help. Joining a support group, either online or i...
20/10/2025

Seek out support.

Finding professional support for grief can be a huge help. Joining a support group, either online or in person, connects you with people who truly understand.

Talking to a grief counsellor or psychotherapist can also help you work through deeper feelings and find a way forward.

Talk to friends and family.Expressing grief is tough, but talking to a trusted person can help. Friends and family may f...
17/10/2025

Talk to friends and family.

Expressing grief is tough, but talking to a trusted person can help.

Friends and family may feel awkward, so reassure them you just need a listening ear, not advice. Be open and tell them what you need, like, "It would really help me to have permission to talk about my grief right now."

Sharing memories of your loved one can become a healing journey which you can share with those who knew them. Learning about and reflecting on your loved one whilst simultaneously allowing yourself to say goodbye.

Today, people around the world light candles at 7 p.m. to honour babies lost during pregnancy, childbirth, or infancy. T...
15/10/2025

Today, people around the world light candles at 7 p.m. to honour babies lost during pregnancy, childbirth, or infancy. This global wave of light symbolises love, remembrance, and support.
Join us by lighting a candle and placing it in your window. Share your tribute online to help raise awareness and support grieving families.

Coping With Grief: Ongoing Support SeriesOver the coming weeks, we are sharing guidance and support for those navigating...
13/10/2025

Coping With Grief: Ongoing Support Series

Over the coming weeks, we are sharing guidance and support for those navigating grief. Each post offers practical advice and emotional insight.

Grief is a deeply personal journey with no set timeline. It can bring intense emotions such as sadness, anger and guilt, and may even affect your physical wellbeing. These responses are completely normal.

You are not alone. Reach out to loved ones or professionals when you need support.

BOYD, MARTHA (MAVIS) October 1 2025.  Beloved wife of the late Ernie, much loved mother of Dianne and Patricia, loving g...
06/10/2025

BOYD, MARTHA (MAVIS) October 1 2025. Beloved wife of the late Ernie, much loved mother of Dianne and Patricia, loving grandmother of Suzanne, Ashleigh, Victoria, Joanne and Philip, also a great-grandmother. Family and friends are welcome to call at Patricia’s home 43 Carolhill Drive, Belfast BT4 3FT between 5.00 pm and 7.00 pm each day. Funeral Service will be held on Thursday 9 October 2025 at 2.40 pm in Roselawn Crematorium. Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu if desired to Alzheimer’s Society NICVA Building 61 Duncairn Gardens, Belfast BT15 2GB

Grand Opening – Pinks Funeral Directors, CaterhamOn 1st August, we proudly celebrated the grand opening of our new Pinks...
03/10/2025

Grand Opening – Pinks Funeral Directors, Caterham

On 1st August, we proudly celebrated the grand opening of our new Pinks Funeral Directors branch in Caterham. While the location is new, Pinks has a long-standing legacy of compassionate care, and we’re thrilled to extend that tradition into the Caterham community.

The event was a fantastic success, thanks to the dedication of Karen, our Area Development Manager, and the brilliant team at Pinks who worked tirelessly to prepare the branch and welcome guests.

We were honoured to be joined by The Hon. Councillor Mike Crane, Chairman of Tandridge District Council, whose presence added a special touch to the occasion.

A highlight of the day was Caterham Town Crier and valued team member Sonia, who brought tradition and ceremony to life with her official duties—making the celebration truly memorable.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in marking this exciting new chapter for Pinks in Caterham.

🎨 Women's Shed – Creativity in Action 🎨The Newtownabbey Women's Shed was awarded funding from the James Brown & Sons Com...
02/10/2025

🎨 Women's Shed – Creativity in Action 🎨

The Newtownabbey Women's Shed was awarded funding from the James Brown & Sons Community Fund to support a 10-week art programme led by artist Fona.
We visited them to see the first class in action, where 8 participants were exploring 3D painting and techniques for shading with light. Over the coming weeks, they will be working on:

Still Life
Portraits
Landscapes – focusing on distance and composition

The impact of these sessions is clear. In the words of the attendees:
🗣️ “The classes bring a sense of relaxation”
🗣️ “We are always learning”
🗣️ “There is a sense of achievement”
🗣️ “The shed is a safe environment, there’s no judgement here”

At the end of the programme, the artwork will be exhibited at the Flax Gallery, supported by Antrim & Newtownabbey Council.

McGregor Thomas Joseph Passed away peacefully in hospital on 1st October 2025 Loving father of Gerard, John, Gareth, Nat...
02/10/2025

McGregor Thomas Joseph Passed away peacefully in hospital on 1st October 2025 Loving father of Gerard, John, Gareth, Nathan and Joshua. Devoted grandfather, Much loved brother of John, Gerard , baby sis Lisa and the late Helen. A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday 8th October 2025 at 10.00am in St Matthews Parish, Bryson Street, Belfast BT5 4ES followed by a committal at City Cemetery at 11:30am. Thomas will be resting at the family home 35 Madrid Street, Belfast BT5 4EA for anyone wanting to pay their respects. All flowers welcome. Donations in lieu may be sent, if desired to Asthma and Lung UK Northern Ireland. Will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by the whole family circle.

This month we’re exploring the topic of coping with grief. Check in each week for helpful advice and guidance.Grief is a...
02/10/2025

This month we’re exploring the topic of coping with grief. Check in each week for helpful advice and guidance.

Grief is a unique journey for everyone; there's no set timeline.

It can bring overwhelming emotions like anger, guilt, and deep sadness, and even manifest as physical symptoms.

All of these reactions are normal. Don’t be afraid to seek support from loved ones or professionals.

Don’t miss a beat on World Heart Day. One in five people will die early from cardiovascular disease (CVD), which claims ...
29/09/2025

Don’t miss a beat on World Heart Day.

One in five people will die early from cardiovascular disease (CVD), which claims more lives than cancer and chronic respiratory diseases combined. Yet, up to 80% of heart disease and stroke cases are preventable. That’s why, every 29 September, we celebrate World Heart Day to raise awareness of CVD and the importance of taking care of your heart.

Find out more about World Heart Day and what you can do to join in: https://world-heart-federation.org/world-heart-day/about-whd/

James Brown & Sons Supporting “Saddle Up” Holiday Bible ClubLast month, our Newtownabbey branch had the joy of supportin...
26/09/2025

James Brown & Sons Supporting “Saddle Up” Holiday Bible Club

Last month, our Newtownabbey branch had the joy of supporting the “Saddle Up” Holiday Bible Club, made possible through the James Brown & Sons Community Fund.

Led by our fantastic team member Claire, the initiative brought together children and families for a week of western-themed fun, crafts, games, and storytelling—all hosted by the local church. The energy was infectious, and it was clear how much the event meant to everyone involved.

We were proud to play a small part in making the week a success. Claire spent time at the club during the week, joined the family BBQ on Saturday, and attended the Sunday Church service—strengthening the bond between our team and the local community.

A huge thank you to Claire for championing this initiative. It’s moments like these that remind us how powerful community connections can be.

Walking Through Fire for a CauseOn 9th October, Tony Harms, Funeral Manager at James Hawes & Goodchild Funeral Directors...
24/09/2025

Walking Through Fire for a Cause

On 9th October, Tony Harms, Funeral Manager at James Hawes & Goodchild Funeral Directors, will be stepping up—literally—for charity. Tony is taking on a Fire Walk to raise vital funds for North London Hospice, an organisation that provides compassionate end-of-life care and support to families across the region.

This bold challenge reflects the same unwavering dedication Tony brings to his role every day. We’re incredibly proud of his courage and commitment, and we’re rallying behind him as he walks through fire for a truly meaningful cause.

Donate today and help make a difference: https://www.justgiving.com/page/anthony-harms13

We’re proud to congratulate six outstanding colleagues on their achievements:✨ Diploma in Funeral DirectingTutored by Ia...
22/09/2025

We’re proud to congratulate six outstanding colleagues on their achievements:

✨ Diploma in Funeral Directing
Tutored by Ian Reynolds, NAFD Approved Tutor and Operational Support Manager at Funeral Partners:
• Aimee Hughes
• Lisa Parker
• Katie Halford
• Victoria Fallon

📜 Certificate in Funeral Arranging and Administration
• Mollie Dowling
• Jade Cross

Your dedication, compassion, and professionalism are an inspiration to us all. Here's to the next chapter in your journey supporting families and communities with care and dignity. 💐

National Association of Funeral Directors

GE Hartley & Son Take on Malham Cove – and a Bull – for Charity!The incredible team from GE Hartley & Son Funeral Direct...
19/09/2025

GE Hartley & Son Take on Malham Cove – and a Bull – for Charity!

The incredible team from GE Hartley & Son Funeral Directors recently tackled a challenging charity walk through the breath taking Malham Cove in the Yorkshire Dales.

What was meant to be a 13-mile trek turned into a 15-mile adventure—thanks to an unexpected detour caused by a runaway bull! From rock climbing to rugged terrain, the team powered through with laughter, resilience, and plenty of Yorkshire grit.

Together, they raised an amazing £1,385 for the Alzheimer's Society. A huge well done to everyone involved—your determination and good humour turned a wild walk into a wonderful memory.

A Fond Farewell to a True Country GentlemanG&M Goold Funeral Directors, were honoured to conduct a heartfelt farewell fo...
18/09/2025

A Fond Farewell to a True Country Gentleman

G&M Goold Funeral Directors, were honoured to conduct a heartfelt farewell for a beloved local farm hand whose life was deeply rooted in the land—and in his love for tractors.

The service reflected his passion for the countryside, with thoughtful touches that celebrated his character and the life he lived. It was a privilege to support his family in saying goodbye.

A fitting tribute to a well-respected member of the local farming community.

September is Vascular Disease Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of prevention and early action....
15/09/2025

September is Vascular Disease Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of prevention and early action.

Vascular disease often develops silently, so maintaining a healthy lifestyle early is key to prevention. Staying active through daily movement, choosing heart-smart foods, quitting smoking, and keeping an eye on your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar can make a profound difference.

This month, let’s commit to small changes that lead to stronger vessels and healthier lives. Share this message, encourage loved ones to get screened, and be part of a movement that prioritises prevention over crisis.

W. Storey Funeral Service had the honour of working with Cleveland Fire Brigade to pay respect to one of the brigades fo...
10/09/2025

W. Storey Funeral Service had the honour of working with Cleveland Fire Brigade to pay respect to one of the brigades former colleagues.

The 93 minute procession to the crematorium involved 8 Fire Engines, over 300 serving men and women and a guard of honour in the local fire station.

Did you know that 1 in 2 strokes and heart attacks are caused by high blood pressure—and 6 million people in the UK don’...
08/09/2025

Did you know that 1 in 2 strokes and heart attacks are caused by high blood pressure—and 6 million people in the UK don’t even know they have it? That’s why this week matters.

Each September Blood Pressure UK holds Know Your Numbers Week, raising awareness about the silent risks of high blood pressure and encouraging everyone to have their blood pressure tested.

Why it matters:
- High blood pressure often has no symptoms
- It can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and dementia
- Early detection means better outcomes and healthier lives

Find your nearest free blood pressure check at https://www.bloodpressureuk.org/know-your-numbers/find-your-nearest-free-blood-pressure-check/

Blood Pressure UK

Murray’s Funeral Directors have launched a community allotment where people who have experienced grief can get together ...
05/09/2025

Murray’s Funeral Directors have launched a community allotment where people who have experienced grief can get together and enjoy the simple pleasures of gardening.

Thyme to Grow – a dedicated plot at the Thorntree Lane Allotments in Swadlincote is open to anyone looking to reconnect with nature, share peaceful moments, and enjoy discovering what can be grown.

Funeral Director Megan Smart who is leading the project said : “Sometimes families that we have looked after can feel lost following the funeral of their loved one, and we thought this might be a nice way to gently introduce something new to their week, where some focus can be placed".

Address

300 Newtownards Road
Belfast
BT41HF

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