AB Walker & Son Ltd Funeral Directors

29/09/2025

We understand the deep responsibility that comes with supporting families through one of life’s most difficult moments, and our brand is built on trust, respect, and unwavering care for the communities we serve.

As we approach our bicentenary in 2026, we felt it was time to refresh our brand—one that reflects our heritage, values, and compassionate approach, and we’re so excited to share it with you.

You’ll soon see our new look across vehicles, branches, brochures, and customer communications. But in the meantime, here’s a sneak peek at some of the creative work - including our updated brochure, vehicle signage, and website.

We love it - and hope you do too!

26/09/2025

Our congratulations to Rev Mark Laynesmith, as he was inducted to become the vicar for Earley St Nicholas on Monday - we were there to support and what a celebration it was, led by Bishop Mary Gregory. We particularly loved the involvement of our old friends Phil Olney (a fondly remembered ex part-time bearer with our team) and his wife Jane (in the red below).

14/09/2025

Julian Walker, who is a member of Vistage (a leadership community) attended a workplace well being training session for two days in the New Forrest this week - culminating in a gentle canoe along the River Beaulieu. Pictured here with Julian, are leaders from the world of film, manufacturing, law, accoutancy and digital services - they are an eclectic mix!

11/09/2025

Need help to write your Will and plan your funeral wishes?

You're warmly invited to Thatcham’s Estate Planning Drop-In Event next week, which we are co-hosting with Gardner Leader solicitors. You might even find yourself a winner in our prize draw!

✔ Jargon-free expert Will and Funeral Planning advice
✔ £100 M&S voucher prize draw
✔ Giveaways

📆Monday 15 September 10am - 1pm
📆Wednesday 17 September 1pm - 4pm
📍The Broadway, Thatcham, RG19 3HP

28/08/2025

"By growing, harvesting, and working with willow in harmony with nature, we not only preserve a centuries-old craft but also contribute to a more sustainable future."

When we first began working with Somerset Willow Coffins decades ago, their skill, care and expertise shone through.

Today their master craftsmanship continues to shine through in every wicker coffin they make for us, thanks to the traditional skills passed down through four generations of basket makers over 60 years.

Their reliable crop of sustainable and natural Somerset-grown willow are helping to meet the rising popularity of wicker coffins, thanks to their eco-conscious qualities:

🍃100% biodegradable
💚Suitable for green burial, cremation and burial
🍀A carbon-negative crop that absorbs more CO₂ than it releases

Continuing to work with existing and new sustainable partners is just one of the steps we’ve taken towards more eco-friendly funerals.

Delve into how willow is grown, the history behind it and why it’s such an invaluable sustainable material.

26/08/2025

In his capacity as Deputy Lieutenant of Berkshire, Managing Director Julian Walker was privileged to join fellow dignitaries, service personnel, and members of the community at Newbury War Memorial to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day.

Together, they paid tribute to those who served in the Far East during the Second World War.

To all who gave their lives then, and to those who continue to serve across the world today, we remain deeply grateful and forever in their debt.

(Photo credited to U.S. Air Force by Tech. Sgt. Jessica Avallone)

21/08/2025

To all the young people in Berkshire and South Oxfordshire, we’re cheering you all the way for your GCSE results today! 🍀

From all of us at AB Walker Funeral Directors, the biggest congratulations🌻

Got a superstar GSCE student in the family? We’d love to hear how they’re celebrating 🎉

14/08/2025

Julian Walker has attended the King's Award for Voluntary Service 2025 Berkshire Group Nominations Presentation at Reading University. Pictured is the team from Power of Parenting with Andrew Try, Lord Lieutenant for Royal Berkshire. POP are a brilliant charity, based in Bracknell. We wish them every success in their work and the King's Award nomination - the awards will be announced in November.

14/08/2025

Wishing all students in Berkshire and South Oxfordshire the very best of luck as A-Level results come out today, and GSCEs next Thursday - we’re cheering you on every step of the way🍀

Whatever your grades, you should be proud of how far you’ve come. From all of us at AB Walker Funeral Directors, we’re sending support and smiles your way.🌻

How have the superstar students in your family done? And we’d love to hear in the comments how they plan to celebrate.🥂

13/06/2025

Julian Walker attended the European meeting of Selected Independent Funeral Homes in Scotland last week where the topic of regulation of the UK funeral sector was extensively discussed. He and some fellow funeral directors managed to win a competition; the prize a magnificent glass stag of whisky! Many thanks to Anderson Maguire Funeral Directors for hosting the group so brilliantly.