A.W. Lymn The Family Funeral Service has announced the promotion of Russ Kemp to the role of Senior Funeral Director, marking a significant milestone in a career with the company that spans nearly a quarter of a century.
Russ first joined the award-winning family business in May 2002, initially taking on the role of driver bearer. After nine years in the position, he progressed to become a Funeral Director in January 2011, based at the company’s Arnold funeral home – where he has been for the last 15 years.
Reflecting on his journey, Russ said: “When I first became a Funeral Director, I was learning as I went. I began working towards my National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) Diploma and that process really helped to ground me in the role. It gave me a solid foundation for the way I’ve approached it ever since.”
Before entering the funeral profession, Russ worked as a bus driver with Nottingham City Transport for eight years. His transition into the funeral industry came about unexpectedly, following encouragement from his mother, who recognised his natural compassion and caring nature.
Unsure of how to enter the sector, Russ wrote to several funeral directors and was invited to come in for an informal chat with Jackie Lymn Rose, Director and fourth generation Lymn. The meeting quickly led to his first role with the business.
Russ’ promotion sees him step into the role as the previous Senior Funeral Director steps back into retirement. Though the role had been discussed with Russ several times, it was not until recently that he felt ready to take on the role.
“The team here gave me the confidence to push myself and take the opportunity,” Russ said.
“After giving it some real thought, I realised I was just lacking that bit of confidence but now I’m looking forward to flourishing as take this senior step within the business.”
Russ’ approach to funerals and dealing with bereaved families has been shaped by years of experience serving families with empathy and professionalism. He notes the importance of tailoring his approach to each individual family, understanding that no two situations are the same.
“There is no one-size-fits-all. Within the first few minutes of speaking with a family, you get a sense of how to be with them, whether they need quiet support, gentle guidance or space to reflect. That’s something you learn over time.”
Matthew Lymn Rose, Managing Director and fifth generation Lymn, added: “Russ’s commitment to both the profession and the families he serves is exemplary. His years of service, experience, and genuine empathy make him ideally suited to the responsibilities of a Senior Funeral Director. We’re proud to see him take this next step in his career with us and join five other Senior Funeral Directors at A.W. Lymn.”
A.W. Lymn was established in Nottingham in 1907 and has grown to become one of the UK’s largest independent funeral directors, operating 25 branches across the region. Having recently acquired M.A. Mills and expanded into Leicestershire, it continues to grow its reach and network of talented funeral directors supporting the bereaved.
