R. Gwinnell & Sons was established in 1986 by Roy Gwinnell together with his wife Christine. Roy's first appointment as a funeral director was in the mid 1960's. He then entered the timber trade but in 1985 after the death of his grandfather, he realized that funeral directing was his true vocation. R Gwinnell and Sons was established with the opening of the first office in Manningtree on the 19th December 1986. It was apparent that the company's services were appreciated and further offices were opened in Colchester and Clacton. A little later a office was opened in Dovercourt which was followed by another across the Suffolk border in Hadeigh.

In 2002 Roy and Chris were joined by their son Matthew who had up until then enjoyed a banking career in the city of London. Like his father Matthew felt he had the necessary empathy and compassion to make undertaking his life long career.

After over 20 years the original principles of quality service, professionalism, compassion and care, along with high standards and business ethics are still paramount. Roy and Matthew are there to look after you at this emotional time.