About Us
Proud to be a Whanganui based, family-owned business, who have been helping other families for over 90 years.
Our Profile
Dempsey & Forrest Funeral Directors have assisted families in Wanganui at their time of bereavement since 1930. The Company is 100% family owned and operated by James & Melanie Forrest.
Jim and Diane Forrest purchased Dempsey and Sons in 1974 from Alec and Jack Dempsey. Alec continued to work in the business alongside Jim and Diane until 1981. Following in the footsteps of his grandfather & father, James started his funeral directing career in 1988 making it a 3rd generation family tradition of caring for families.
James is a fully qualified funeral director and holds a National Diploma in Funeral Directing.
With nearly 100 years of experience in serving our community, Dempsey & Forrest have established a reputation for providing exceptional funeral services tailored to meet the diverse needs and cultural traditions of families. Whether you prefer a traditional funeral, tangihanga, a memorial service, or a celebration of life, we offer a range of options to accommodate your preferences, ensuring a meaningful and healing experience for all who attend.
