Community Activities
A Funeral Arranger is celebrating 35 years of providing unwavering care and compassion to grieving families.
June McCandless has been working with Houston & Williamson Funeral Directors, based in Crumlin Road, Belfast for more than three decades, through sweeping changes in the industry and different generations of management.
June said she still gets the same satisfaction from her role as she always had.
“Ultimately, I want to take the pressures and stress off the family who has suffered a bereavement,” she said.
“There are challenging times, of course. You meet people in their darkest hour and witness the pain they are in as they grieve for their loved ones.
“But I love helping them through that, which is a big part of why I have stayed here for 35 years.”
Alongside her tireless work, June has volunteered with the Time to Read programme at Fourtowns Primary School for two decades.
The initiative aims to improve literacy, foster a love of reading and build confidence and social skills of children in Key Stage Two.
Area Development Manager Emma Moore said: “June is the glue that has held Houston and Williamson together for so long.
“She has been through it all – from the team around her changing to movements in laws and regulations and stood by us with unwavering dedication, helping guide our team and our families with compassion and grace.
“Her caring nature, compassionate heart, and tireless work ethic have left an indelible mark on so many people.
“Most of the families who come to us have had the privilege of meeting June, and her kindness has undoubtedly provided comfort in their times of need.
“On top of this, June is a true champion of literacy and has had a lasting impact on her community outside of work with her commitment to Time to Read.”