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R. Gwinnell & Sons is a family-run funeral director based in Colchester, Essex, offering a personal and individual approach to caring for families during their most difficult times. The branch can be reached 24 hours a day, reflecting their commitment to being there whenever families need them most.
Established in 1986 by Roy and Christine Gwinnell, the business has grown from its first funeral home in Manningtree to a range of branches across Essex and Suffolk. Their eldest son Matt joined the business in 2002, having grown up watching his father care for local families. Roy holds the Diploma in Funeral Directing and is a member of the British Institute of Funeral Directors, as well as a long-standing member of the Rotary Club.
As members of the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) and the National Association of Memorial Masons (NAMM), R. Gwinnell & Sons takes great pride in delivering a quality, compassionate service. In addition to funeral arrangements, they offer headstones and monuments, pre-paid funeral plans, and tribute pages, ensuring families receive comprehensive support from start to finish.
"Their whole approach was professional, they are extremely helpful and friendly and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone else."
— Karen Ainley
"Nothing seemed too much trouble and I would definitely recommend them."
— Moira Goodey
"I went with you because of your kind gentle and very helpful approach at this very hard time. Anne was in contact every step of the way and was very understanding of what we wanted, which turned into a wonderful send off."
— Jane Knight (about Anne)
"From the drive brilliantly executed to the cemetery to the dignity and professionalism of Matt, it was very much appreciated. A wonderful company to deal with at a very emotional time."
— jason drew (about Matt)
"The way they so sensitively dealt with the wishes of our family and helped steer us through a very difficult time. Thank you, because you took the weight."
— esther feltham (about Matt)
Matt Gwinnell
Director
"The way they so sensitively dealt with the wishes of our family and helped steer us through a very difficult time. Than…"
Roy Gwinnell
Co-founder
Roy co-founded R. Gwinnell & Sons in 1986 alongside Christine Gwinnell. He holds the Diploma in Funeral Directing, is a…
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Serving families in COLCHESTER and the surrounding area