A Legacy of Care
Our story is one of enduring service to the community:
1846-1972
In 1886, Henry’s son, Henry Herbert Christophers, assumed leadership of the family business. Known then as H. H. Christophers & Son, he is seen in a treasured family photograph as the elderly gentleman holding his hat in his left hand.
In 1886, Henry’s son, Henry Herbert Christophers, assumed leadership of the family business. Known then as H. H. Christophers & Son, he is seen in a treasured family photograph as the elderly gentleman holding his hat in his left hand.
Following his return from the First World War, Frederic Christophers took over in 1920 and renamed the business F. Christophers & Son. Pictured in a grey suit standing to the left, Frederic continued to serve the community not only as a funeral director but also as a builder, carpenter, and wheelwright.
In 1948, Frederic passed the business on to his son, Frederic Herbert (Bertie) Christophers, who guided the firm through the post-war years until 1972. At that point, the company was taken over by his son, Frederic William Christophers—shown as a child sitting on his father’s lap in a 1941 photograph.
1972 - 2018
Under Frederic William’s leadership, the business relocated from Bickington to Ashburton in 1978, initially operating from St Lawrence Lane. In 1993, the firm moved to its current premises, which house the office, chapel of rest, and mortuary. Expansion continued in 2007 with the opening of a second site in Newton Abbot, originally on Wolborough Street, before moving to the modern facilities at Homelands Hall, Jetty Marsh Road in 2013.
Today
In 2018, Frederic William Christophers retired, leaving behind a well-respected legacy. The business is now managed by Tom Meek, who married into the Christopher family. Tom began supporting the firm in the early 2000s, assisting his father-in-law before gradually taking on a leading role.
Today, Tom oversees all aspects of Christophers’ operations—from conducting funeral services and coordinating with gravediggers, doctors, and florists, to handling administrative duties such as preparing estimates and managing accounts. His leadership blends tradition with modernity, ensuring that every family receives respectful, compassionate, and personalised care.
Clients regularly commend Tom and his dedicated team for their professional and supportive approach. One heartfelt testimonial noted, “Nothing was too much trouble”, reflecting the company’s unwavering commitment to guiding families with sensitivity and understanding through their time of loss.
With nearly two centuries of service, Christophers’ Family Funerals remains a pillar of trust, care, and heritage in South Devon.
Our Pledge to You
We pledge to care for your loved one as if they were our own—with warmth, respect, and attention to every detail. We will guide you gently through each step of the process, offering clear advice and space for personal choices. Whether you’re arranging a simple farewell or a traditional service, we are committed to creating meaningful, heartfelt tributes that honour life and love.
When you come to Christophers, you become part of a legacy of trust built over generations.
+175 Years
Our Chapels: Quiet spaces for private reflection or heartfelt farewell
At Christophers’ Family Funerals, we understand the importance of a peaceful setting when saying goodbye. We are proud to offer two thoughtfully designed chapels, each providing a private, welcoming environment for reflection or personalised services.
Homelands Hall – Newton Abbot
Located at Balls Corner near Jetty Marsh, Homelands Hall offers a beautiful setting for services with up to 60 guests. Featuring oak beams, solid oak doors, a sound system for personalised music, and a large screen for displaying cherished photos, it creates a peaceful, country chapel atmosphere where families can say goodbye in their own way.
-
Homelands Hall, Jetty Marsh Road, NEWTON ABBOT, TQ12 2SL
-
01626 355242
Bridge House – Ashburton
Our Ashburton funeral home on Kingsbridge Lane has served the community since 1979. It includes a peaceful private chapel of rest and welcoming arrangements room—designed to provide families with the comfort and space they need during difficult times.
-
Bridge House, 9 Kingsbridge Lane, Ashburton, TQ13 7DX
-
01364 654065
Whether you seek a quiet moment of reflection or a personalised service, our chapels provide warmth, dignity and peace of mind.