JILL GLENCROSS: Eight years of care, compassion and Christmas Memories
EIGHT YEARS OF CARE, COMPASSION AND CHRISTMAS MEMORIES
Jill Glencross Independent Funeral Directors celebrates eight years of supporting families and bringing the community together.
by Stephen Murphy
For Jill Glencross, being a funeral director has always been about far more than arranging a funeral. It is about people, family, compassion and being there when it matters most. As her Dalston-based independent funeral directors celebrate its eighth anniversary, one of the most meaningful ways Jill continues to support the community is through the annual Christmas Memorial Tree.
What began as a one-woman business in 2018 has grown into one of Carlisle’s most respected and award-winning funeral directors, employing 22 dedicated staff and earning a reputation for exceptional personal care. Yet, despite its growth and success, the heart of the business remains unchanged: ensuring every family feels supported, understood and cared for.
“I can hardly believe how far we’ve come,” says Jill. “There have been incredible highs and some really tough times, but the love and support from my immediate family, my team, and the families we care for have kept me going.”
Before establishing her own business, Jill spent 24 years working at the Cumberland Infirmary. The opportunity to take a different path came unexpectedly when a friend in Dalston offered her premises to start something new. It was the beginning of a journey that would see her build a thriving business founded on dignity, professionalism and genuine compassion.
“It’s not just about the funeral day, it’s about supporting people before, during, and long after. For us, this isn’t just a business, it’s deeply personal.”
Alongside her husband and business partner, Russell, whom she married in 2020, Jill has continued to develop the company while keeping family values at its core. The journey has not been without personal challenges, including the loss of her beloved dad, Mike, in 2021, and health difficulties the following year. Through it all, her determination to help others has remained unwavering.
That commitment has earned the business numerous accolades, including Cumbria New Business of the Year in 2020, Cumbria Woman of the Year in 2022 and Female Entrepreneur of the Year in 2024. The company has also been recognised by Three Best Rated as one of Carlisle’s leading funeral directors across several consecutive years.
However, for Jill, success is not measured by awards alone.
“We offer families something completely unique,” she explains. “It’s not just about the funeral day, it’s about supporting people before, during, and long after. For us, this isn’t just a business, it’s deeply personal.”
A CHRISTMAS TRADITION FILLED WITH MEANING
This philosophy is perhaps nowhere more evident than in the Christmas Memorial Tree, an annual event that offers families a special opportunity to remember loved ones during a season that can be particularly difficult for those experiencing bereavement.
Everyone is invited to the annual opening which normally takes place towards the end of November or beginning of December. A date is yet to be confirmed; follow their social media pages for updates and information.
The launch will be held outside the Dalston Chapel of Rest; 16 The Square, Dalston, Carlisle CA5 7PY.
For Jill and her team, helping families honour those memories is a privilege, and one that continues to define the business eight years after it first opened its doors.
For more information, contact Jill Glencross Independent Funeral Directors on 01228 317373, or visit www.jillglencrossfuneraldirector.co.uk
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