9 November 2026
William Purves Funeral Directors rebrands branches in the North of Scotland
William Purves Funeral Directors rebrands branches in the North of Scotland
Independent, family-owned funeral firm, William Purves, is rebranding its two northern branches, W.G. Catto in Elgin and Inverurie’s Eric P Massie, marking a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth and evolution.
Having acquired ownership of the branches in 2002 and 2016 respectively, the move will bring both businesses under the family name, consolidating William Purves’ 27-strong portfolio and streamlining the brand’s identity across its properties in Scotland and North-East England.
Tim Purves, CEO of William Purves Funeral Directors, said of the rebrand: “William Purves has been supporting grieving families and the wider communities in the North of Scotland for more than 20 years. It feels like the right moment to unite our brand names and recognise the remarkable efforts of our teams in Elgin and Inverurie.”
Nurturing local talent
Both branches boast an experienced, long-standing team of local funeral directors and operatives. Both Inverurie and Elgin Team Leaders bring decades of expertise; Ian Thomson has been a funeral director for 40 years, while Elgin’s Bob Proctor holds over 20 years of industry experience.
The family-owned funeral firm has invested heavily in both of its northern teams, putting all staff members through professional training to support skills development, aid career progression and ensure the highest standards of funeral care for local families.
This investment in people has enabled the team to strengthen and diversify its skill set, with Aberdeenshire local, Connor McPherson, transitioning from funeral operative into an embalming role, where he will serve families in Elgin, Inverurie, Angus and Fife with specialised embalming care. Rona Grant joined the team as a funeral operative five years ago, and qualified as a funeral director this year.
And, with plans to grow both teams before the end of the year, local families can expect even greater levels of support, compassion and expertise as they navigate one of life’s most challenging times.
Spaces that put families' comfort first
The name above the door is not the only update taking place. William Purves’ Inverurie branch has undergone a full refurbishment, investing in a new reception, upgraded service room, arranging rooms and viewing suite to offer families a more welcoming and peaceful experience.
The works come six years on from Elgin’s refit, which entailed a new purpose-built mortuary space, modern arranging rooms and the installation of live streaming technology.
These capital investments, carried out by local contractors, reinforce William Purves’ commitment to the community and to delivering the highest standards of funeral care to the region, enhancing how funerals are arranged and carried out in Northern Scotland.
Ian Thomson, Team Leader of William Purves Inverurie, said: “We have just finished a refurbishment of our Inverurie branch offering visitors greater quality, modernity and versatility. Our newly updated viewing suite affords grieving families greater comfort and privacy to say goodbye, while the refreshed arranging rooms have been thoughtfully designed to put those discussing funeral plans at ease.
“We have also opened a purpose-built reception, with a newly recruited receptionist. Where previously staff attendance at funerals may have required the branch to temporarily close, this investment from William Purves will ensure families receive a personal welcome and exceptional care at all hours.”
Bob Proctor, Team Leader of William Purves Elgin, added: “While our name may be different, locals can expect the same team, same compassion and professionalism, and same exceptional service they have trusted under the William Purves brand for the past 24 years.
“We encourage anyone with any questions, considering their options or looking into making future funeral plans to come by and see us. We don't charge for professional advice, but its value to local families is priceless.”
Tim Purves concluded: “It was an honour to be entrusted to continue the legacy of both funeral firms. Since then, we have been committed to building on that legacy through ongoing investment in our people, premises, customers and local communities.
“We reiterate that pledge today. Bringing W.G. Catto and Eric P Massie under the family brand name will allow us to strengthen our support of local people and ensure that all individuals and grieving families receive the compassion, dedication, integrity and respect they deserve.”
