Local funeral director and businessman dies aged 77

A funeral director described as delivering "the highest levels of care" to grieving families has died aged 77.

Aubrey Russell Kirkham, co-founder of a long established family funeral business in Shropshire, died on 18 March, his family announced on social media.

Mr Kirkham built the business alongside his wife Ann and daughter Leanne, establishing a firm with funeral homes in Shrewsbury, Four Crosses and near the Welshpool border. The company became known locally for its focus on staff training, customer care and supporting families through bereavement.

A funeral service for Mr Kirkham will take place at St Chad's Church in Shrewsbury on 28 March at 11:30 GMT.

In 2010, the business was awarded a silver Mayor's Award for Businesses by Shrewsbury Town Council.

Judges praised the firm for delivering "perhaps the highest levels of care to families at the time of distress" and commended its sensitive approach to bereaved people.

Mr Kirkham also had strong links to the town's horticultural heritage through his family connection to broadcaster and gardener Percy Thrower. He served as past chairman and vice president of the Shrewsbury Flower Show.

His family business went on to win multiple regional awards, including honours at the Shropshire Chamber of Commerce business awards, recognising its standards of care and commitment to the local community.

Family flowers have been requested, with donations in his memory supporting hospice at home services.

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