We believe that the success of any business requires dedication and professionalism
In our business, in particular, it also requires a great deal of kindness, compassion and attention to detail. You’ll find these qualities in each and every member of our staff here at Hayley Owen Funeral Director. Being family run means we all share the same common values, ethos and beliefs on how things should be done. This gives us an extra sense of purpose and pride, along with a strong commitment to our families and the business.
Dave Barker
Dave is the managing director, accounts manager and one of the funeral directors at Hayley Owen’s. He is also an Appointed Representative of Ecclesiastical funeral plans, part of our 24-hour call-out team and a bearer and driver at funerals. Dave is very proud of both the company’s reputation and of the quality of service offered, which he believes is second to none. He constantly strives to deliver a service to families which he thinks and hopes they find of a very high standard. Dave’s other passion is Lambretta scooters. You may see him riding one of his many Lambrettas around the city as he enjoys riding up and down the country and across Europe to Lambretta rally's, or just relaxing with his dachshunds Trixie and Dexter.
Gary Webster-Barker
Gary is general manager at Hayley Owen’s. He is responsible for the smooth running of the workshop, our fleet of vehicles, and the health and safety within the business, but you will often see him outside washing the cars or watering the plants too. He is also part of our 24-hour call-out team and a bearer and driver on the day at funerals. His 20 year’s managerial experience in customer facing roles makes him a great team leader. When not at work there’s nothing Gary doesn’t enjoy more than a ride out on his Vespa scooter, helping his children with projects or simply a nice glass of wine in the garden. He’s always got a smile on his face and happy to have a natter, he also makes a great cup of tea so if you ever pop along to see us be sure to take him up on the offer.
Patience Webster-Barker
Patience is a funeral arranger, trainee funeral director and an Appointed Representative of Ecclesiastical funeral plans. She is the glue that holds us all together and keeps things ticking over smoothly. Her past experiences are varied, from office manger to working in graphic design, and from this she brings with her the best organisational skills and a whole wealth of people management, administration, and customer service skills. Often the first point of contact when people call or pop into the office, she’s always happy to assist with your needs. Living up to her name, she is understanding and empathetic at a family’s time of need, and can guide them in a sensitive and caring manner.
Matthew Harrison
Matthew is a trainee funeral director and an Appointed Representative of Ecclesiastical funeral plans. He also works in our workshop and mortuary, and is part of our 24-hour call-out team. You will see him bear at funerals, and also drive the limousines. Coming from the care industry as a care assistant for 12 years specialising in care for Dementia and end of life, he already had an insight into the preliminary stages of caring for the deceased. It was from working so closely with people at end of life, and their families, that gave Matthew the desire to work in funeral care. He is very friendly and knowledgeable, and his background in the care industry means he’s quick to build a connection with family’s at their time of need. If you see him outside washing a car be sure to hello!
Angela Clarke
Angela works on reception answering the telephone and helping in the office, but is always happy to help out where needed. She has worked in reception and admin for most of her working life. She is active in her local parish church where she was the Pastoral Assistant for 8 years. During this time, she was encouraged and supported to conduct funeral services of faith as a lay ministry where she supported many bereaved families. It was through this work that she had a desire to work in funeral care. The opportunity arose and she went to work for a large funeral company for a brief time, before coming to work at Hayley Owen's which is independent and more personal. Angela finds it a privilege to work with, and help families during their most vulnerable time in life.
Beth Harron
Beth is a trainee funeral director with the B.I.F.D and works with us one day a week to gain hands on experience within the funeral industry. When she is with us she helps in the office, on funerals and in the mortuary. Beth wants to be a funeral director because she would like to be able to help families through one of the most difficult times in their life and try make it easier for them. She knew this was what she wanted to do from a young age because of her own experience of a family member passing away and not being treated properly. She has also grown up within the industry as her dad is a qualified embalmer with the BIE. Beth shows great potential and we look forward to helping her gain experience and knowledge within our company.