William Purves History
Family run for five generations
When you place your trust in William Purves you can expect the highest standards of professionalism, compassionate care and a truly distinct service.
1888
William Purves
In 1888, William Purves, a craftsman and cabinet-maker from the Borders, gave his name to the company. He started his career as a joiner and by the end of the 19th Century he and his 10 joiners undertook cabinet making, french polishing, upholstering and … undertaking.
1900s
Willie Purves
By the early 1900’s his son Willie became the second generation to carry on the family business opening a funeral office in Marchmont Road.
1962
John Purves
John (or Jack as he was known) was a time-served joiner who worked alongside his father Willie until he died in 1962. John retired the joinery side of the company and opened a funeral office with rest rooms, a service chapel and bought the first hearse (an Austin 3 litre) and Daimler funeral cars.
1975
John and Graeme
Jack had 5 children and fostered many more. His son John, became the fourth generation of Purves to join the company, taking over when his father passed away in 1975. John worked with his brother-in-law Graeme Brown to open more William Purves offices throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians.
Today
The Company has 21 William Purves branches with an additional 7 funeral director brands and one stonemason under its banner. The company currently employs around 100 people across Scotland and North East England.Latest Posts
How to choose a memorial
Memorials are the lasting tribute we can leave for generations to come. In five simple steps, we explore how to choose the perfect stone memorial. Choose a location Memorial stones or markers are typically erected in graveyards and cemeteries to indicate a grave but...
Give us your wishes. We’ll give you our promise.
In our experience, the best funerals are those where everyone looks back with peace of mind that they got it “just right”; that the tone, style and format was to the deceased’s preference. Those we find tough to arrange are the funerals where families have no idea...
FUNERAL of HM QUEEN ELIZABETH II
Robert Samson is proud to be part of the dedicated team who have cared for our late Queen with dignity since her sad passing. Rehearsals for the procession from Balmoral to Edinburgh have taken place regularly over many years, with every detail considered. For Robert...
