Undertakers hold a unique and vital role in any community, offering compassion and professionalism to families during some of life’s most difficult moments. Forsey & Son, a cherished funeral service provider in Somerset, exemplifies this dedication as they mark 80 years of service across the county.
With numerous branches conveniently located throughout Somerset, Forsey & Son has become synonymous with community support and care. To celebrate this significant anniversary, the company is launching a special fundraising initiative to benefit two esteemed local charities: Dorothy House Hospice and Children’s Hospice South West.
This summer, the Forsey & Son team will undertake a sponsored “Cycle & Stroll” event, traveling branch to branch over three days in July and August. The journey will cover a 31-mile route starting in Doulting, passing through Somerton and Butleigh, and culminating at their headquarters in Glastonbury.
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Sam Forsey, Managing Director and fourth-generation family member, shared his thoughts: “For four generations, we’ve been part of Somerset’s heart, supporting bereaved families with a dedicated and compassionate team. This anniversary gives us an opportunity not only to reflect but also to give back through events that unite our branches and community while supporting incredible local charities.”
The event will begin on July 30 with a cycling leg from Trotman Funeral Directors in Doulting to the Somerton branch. On July 31, the team will walk from Somerton to Butleigh. The final leg on August 1 will see them walking from Butleigh to their main office at Willowfields in Glastonbury.
Rooted deeply in village life, Forsey & Son’s story spans four generations beginning with Wilfred Albert Forsey, known affectionately as Bert or Pop. He founded the business in 1946 as W.A. Forsey Building Contractors and Funeral Directors in Butleigh, serving the community with care and commitment. Wilfred was also deeply involved in local sports, supporting both Glastonbury Football Club and Butleigh Cricket Club.
The family legacy continued with his son Brian, who expanded both the construction and funeral services. Adrian Forsey joined the business in 1980, bringing professional expertise in funeral directing, embalming, and health and hygiene.
In 2017, Sam Forsey left a successful chartered accountancy career to join the family business, ushering in the fourth generation of leadership alongside his father Adrian. Together, they balance tradition with visionary plans for the company’s future.
Helen Forsey, Adrian’s wife, also plays a vital role, having transitioned from a lifelong teaching career to join the team as an organist and administrator. Family pet Betty, a beloved cockapoo, holds the honorary title of Chief Comforter, offering additional support during challenging times.
Community members are invited to support Forsey & Son’s fundraising efforts by donating to this meaningful cause. Sam Forsey emphasized, “Every contribution counts, no matter the size. Sharing our campaign with friends and family can help us reach more people and make a bigger impact.”
As Forsey & Son honor eight decades of compassionate service, their commitment to care, kindness, and community remains as strong as ever.