Memory Funerals premises, opposite New World on Moore Street, are beautifully furnished, and include a welcoming reception area, viewing room and funeral lounge. Being locally owned means there is no time pressure and visitors can feel free to pop in any time for an informal chat and a cup of tea or coffee. Jo Metcalf, owner and funeral director at Memory Funerals eases families through the emotional time of saying farewell to a loved one. Born and bred in Canterbury, Jo lives in Ashburton and has been organising funerals for nearly a decade. She opened Memory Funerals to offer the bereaved a choice in funeral care and to cater to the needs that reflect the personality, culture and uniqueness of the individual. Jo takes a calm, unhurried approach and listens, giving people an opportunity to ask questions, share thoughts, and help create a tribute to the person who has meant so much to them. She takes her time to get to know the deceased and the family to create funeral arrangements to suit them, including having treasured possessions adorning the casket, and personal items that capture special memories and celebrate the life that was.
