Funeral directors earn prestigious award for making a difference in the community

John Gray & Co, which serves Holywood and Bangor in County Down, Northern Ireland, was ‘Highly Commended’ in the Community Impact Award category of the Holywood Chamber President’s Awards.

The Holywood team were singled out for their professionalism, compassion, quiet dedication and going far beyond their role as funeral directors by supporting families going through some of life’s most difficult moments with care, dignity and genuine community spirit.

According to Holywood Chamber of Commerce, John Gray & Co’s commitment to Holywood is “woven into the fabric of the town” – from sponsoring local events and supporting older generations to being a reassuring, familiar presence when people need it most.

John Gray & Co Funeral Arranger Riana Mackenzie de Sousa said: “We really weren’t expecting this award. It’s so lovely to be recognised in this way and we feel very honoured. We’ve been part of the community for 60 years and have always looked for ways to support people in any way we can.

“We launched our Community Assistance Programme recently to donate funds to local groups doing amazing things for residents and the wider community. We also support Redburn Community Centre and Camphill Holywood, which creates inclusive communities for adults with special needs.”

Riana has also launched ‘Silver Surfers’, an initiative to help older residents use technology and navigate the internet. She recently joined parishioners at St Colmcille’s Church, My Lady’s Mile, Holywood, for a coffee morning session focused on internet safety and helping older adults protect themselves online.

She explained: “Parishioners shared their experiences using technology, and I offered advice and support for anyone who might need help with laptops, phones or tablets. We had a really positive response to the session, and we now plan to organise more.”