On the 29th of July, H.Parsons Funeral Directors will be opening its doors to over 100 Illawarra locals for a different kind of event – a 130th birthday celebration.
For 130 years, H.Parsons has served the Illawarra community, remaining 100% locally owned since the company’s doors opened in 1893.
The business is purchased by Henry Parsons in 1893, who relocates it to 135 Keira St, Wollongong shortly after and changes the name to ‘H.Parsons Builder and Undertaker’.
As far as Alan Parsons is concerned, the company’s owner (and the fourth generation of the Parsons family to work in the business), the entire Illawarra community is warmly invited to the celebration.
“Very, very few businesses are lucky enough to still be around 130 years later,” Alan says. “We’re incredibly proud to be one of the few funeral companies in the area that has been able to remain 100% Australian and family-owned.”
Henry Parsons and his family in 1893.
Alan Parsons and his son, Anthony Parsons, who represents the 5th generation of the Parsons family to work in the business.
When it comes to the secret behind the company’s longevity, Alan believes there have been two essential ingredients.
“Integrity is at the heart of everything we do – we have always been and will always be committed to honesty, fairness, and transparency. These principles extend throughout our business - we do everything we can to help families honour the life of their loved one without added uncertainty and stress,” Alan says.
“It truly does take a village. We know that we wouldn’t be where we are today without the dedication of our staff, the support of fellow local businesses, and the loyalty of the Illawarra community over the years.”
The free event will be held at 34 Belmore Street, Wollongong from 10 am – 12 pm on Saturday, 29 July, and will include some light refreshments and an archive display showcasing 130 years of Illawarra history.
You can learn more about the history of H.Parsons Funeral Directors here.