Forsey & Son, a trusted name in Somerset’s funerary services, are celebrating 80 years of compassionate care in the community. As a family-run business with branches across the county, they have supported countless families during their most difficult moments with professionalism and empathy.
To honor this significant milestone, Forsey & Son are launching a special fundraising initiative aimed at raising money for two vital local charities: Dorothy House Hospice and Children’s Hospice South West. This summer, their team will embark on a three-day sponsored Cycle & Stroll event, traveling between their offices on a route steeped in the company’s history.
Managing Director Sam Forsey explained, “For four generations, we have been deeply woven into the fabric of Somerset. Celebrating 80 years is not just about looking back but also about giving back. Our upcoming challenge unites our branches and community to support two incredible charities making a real difference locally.”
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The journey begins on July 30 with a cycling leg from their Doulting branch, Trotman Funeral Directors, to the Somerton office. Over the next two days, the team will walk from Somerton to Butleigh, and then onward to the head office at Willowfields, Glastonbury. Covering a total of 31 miles, this route reflects Forsey & Son’s origins in village life, family dedication, and ongoing growth.
The story of Forsey & Son begins in 1946, when Wilfred Albert Forsey—affectionately known as Bert or Pop—founded W.A. Forsey Building Contractors and Funeral Directors in Butleigh. From humble beginnings, the business conducted a handful of funerals its first year and has since evolved into a vital community fixture.
Wilfred was also a well-loved local figure, deeply involved in sports as president of Glastonbury Football Club and a supporter of Butleigh Cricket Club. His son Brian later expanded the business by combining his skills as a painter and decorator with funeral service.
Adrian Forsey joined in 1980, bringing expertise as a quantity surveyor and gaining professional qualifications in funeral directing and embalming. The fourth generation joined when Sam Forsey came aboard in 2017, transitioning from a successful career in chartered accountancy to lead the family firm into the future alongside his father.
“The essence of what we do remains unchanged: providing care, kindness, and professionalism to local families,” said Sam. Alongside Adrian and Sam, the family legacy includes Helen Forsey, who transitioned from teaching to support the business in administration and music, with Betty, the family cockapoo, offering comfort as the unofficial ‘Chief Comforter’.
The team invites community members to support their fundraising efforts with donations to help sustain critical hospice care in Somerset. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference, and sharing their story helps amplify the impact.