History

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

Chairman Tim Purves represents the fifth generation of the Purves family. He is joined by fellow directors, James Morris, Andrew Purves and Colin Brown, shaping a 21st business that is shaped by core values of compassion, dedication, integrity and respect. The 'William Purves family' today comprises over 100 staff including four great-great-grandchildren of the founder.

Over the years, many family owned funeral directors have trusted William Purves to continue their valued work in local communities throughout Scotland and NE England. We’re proud to build on the legacies we now represent as we continue supporting bereaved families when they need help the most.

(Back l-r:) James Morris, Andrew Purves (Front l-r:) Colin Brown, Tim Purves