Phillips Funeral Directors

In 1914, Ernest and Edwin decided to go their separate ways. This was the year Ernest's only daughter, Margaret, was born, and he decided he wanted to set up his own business in building and undertaking.

These skills went hand-in-hand during this era, because craftsmen such as builders, carpenters and joiners, were often asked to build coffins, which at the time was a big part of the undertaking profession. Many undertakers then moved on to become funeral directors.

During the war years of 1914 to 1918, Ernest served in France with the Royal Engineers for two years. His wife continued to run the business at home during this time, as well as caring for seven soldiers who were lodged at Alma Road during the war.

The company continued to flourish over the following decades and became a well-known part of the St Albans community. Known for their compassion, trustworthiness and close attention to detail, the funeral directors became relied upon by generation after generation of the same families.

In the 1970s, the Mr and Mrs Phillips acquired the business. Our Harpenden funeral directors opened in the 1990s, and then Treeves Funeral Home in Borehamwood became a part of the company in 2001. Our latest addition is our funeral home in Marshalswick, which opened in 2003.

At Phillips Funeral Directors, we are proud of our long and rich heritage. Over the years, we have continued to practise the same unparalleled standards of care that our founders were known for. Phillips have been trusted with the care of several well-known members of our community, including The Right Reverend and Right Honourable The Lord Robert Runcie, MC, former Archbishop of Canterbury.