A Southport funeral director who has supported thousands of families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives has celebrated 40 years in the profession and says he has no intention of stopping yet.
Michael Rushton Dip. FD, of M Rushton Funeral Directors, has spent all his life in the Southport area, growing up in Banks and beginning his career as a trainee in 1986 at a small family funeral directors in Southport.
Shortly after, he joined Tony Jolly, the original owner of Moisters Funeral Directors in Southport, who he credits for much of his own professional work ethics, before opening his own business, M Rushton Funeral Directors, in 2016. Michael was very happy to see Tony at the celebration.
Four decades into his career, he is still meeting families and regularly conducting funerals in the community he has served for so long – prompting friends and colleagues old and new to mark the milestone with a small celebration.
Reflecting on his 40 years, Michael Rushton said:
“It means everything to me that I am still caring for families, visiting families and conducting funerals regularly after all these years. I’m looking forward to seeing my 50th year in the profession that I care so much about.”
Presenting Michael with a commemorative plaque, Division Operations Manager Ruth Meadows said:
“Michael is humble as always, but we could not let this moment pass without acknowledging all that he has contributed over such a long period of time.”
Throughout his career, Michael has always regarded caring for bereaved families as an honour and privilege rather than simply a job. The scale of Michael’s impact was shown in a special card presented to him containing messages from his team, fellow funeral professionals, clergy, ministers and others who have worked alongside him over the years.
There was another surprise waiting outside the funeral home to mark his anniversary – a specially created knitted postbox topper from Southport Hookers. Michael has personally thanked the group and is making a donation in recognition of their gesture.
Now part of the Funeral Partners network of family funeral homes, M Rushton Funeral Directors continues to serve local families while Michael has been able to spend more time supporting his family.
Michael said:
“I have gone from being on call 24/7 to working more part-time hours, which allows me to help care for my disabled children who need me, while still being able to work with my team and care for my community. That means so much to me.”
Looking back over his career, Michael said his greatest thanks was reserved for the families who have placed their trust in him and his colleagues over the past four decades.
He added: “I would like to thank every family who has entrusted me with their loved one, as well as all my colleagues, professionals, ministers, clergy and the wonderful people I have met over the years.
“Most importantly, I would like to acknowledge every single person I have had the privilege of caring for. May they rest in peace, surrounded by the love we all send to them.”
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