Learn how Hazel James, Auckland based Funeral Director and Founder, turned her family’s legacy into a mission-driven funeral service.
Growing up, Hazel James was never far from the funeral industry. Her grandfather was a funeral director in the UK, and her father continued the family tradition in New Zealand, so Hazel’s involvement in the business was almost inevitable.
That being said, Hazel never set out to be a funeral director.
However, her caring nature and natural empathetic qualities meant that in her career, she always gravitated towards leadership positions where she could support people during their most difficult times. “Everyone has a different story, and they’re all interesting. I always found that deeply fulfilling.”
It wasn’t long before she started working in the family business.
“I started by catering food for funerals then, moved to helping in the office. I always felt a strong sense of purpose in caring for families and their stories. I never imagined I’d be transferring the deceased from place of death or directing funerals, but over time, I took on more responsibility.”
The Windsor Funerals Vision: Caring for Families, Not Profits
That responsibility developed into a funeral director role. Even after her dad sold the business, Hazel continued to work for the company, serving her clients with intention and care.
“When I worked in my parent’s funeral home, the focus was on the families we served. When my dad retired, we decided to sell to a particular corporate entity. Unfortunately, I saw a shift towards markups and money from the owners,” Hazel explains. “I wanted to return to that family-centred approach, serving the community around me.”
With that mission in mind, Hazel approached Grant at Windsor Park Baptist Church and asked if they would collaborate to build a new local funeral service option.
So, Windsor Funerals was born.
Looking ahead, Hazel dreams of expanding the business to include a chapel, perhaps even a ‘tree chapel’ that allows families to mourn in a serene, natural environment. “The future could include food caravans and a greenhouse,” she says. “I want to create a space where people feel truly cared for and can celebrate the lives of their loved ones in a meaningful way.”
The Joys and Challenges of the Job
What Hazel loves most about her work is the people. “I love the team I work with and a being a part of something bigger, like the church. It’s about caring for people. It’s not an easy job—there are a lot of emotions and tough stories—but knowing I can help families through such a difficult time is what keeps me going.”
Addressing Common Misconceptions about Funeral Directors
When asked what she wishes families knew about funeral planning, Hazel points to the many misconceptions people often have.
“A lot of people think funerals are scary or ‘icky,’” she says. “My husband used to feel that way, but he’s slowly getting used to it. There’s so much curiosity around the funeral process—like, ‘Can I scatter ashes anywhere? Do I really need a funeral? Do I have to have a casket?’”
Hazel is passionate about demystifying these topics as she meets with Windsor Funerals clients. She also loves hosting talks and Q&A sessions where she can answer questions and help people better understand the process. “It’s all about providing the answers people need so they can make informed decisions during a challenging time.”
A Lasting Legacy
Hazel’s journey in funeral care has come full circle, from a daughter helping out at the family funeral business to co-founding and leading a purpose driven social enterprise funeral home.
Her focus remains clear through it all: listening to stories and providing families with the care, compassion, and support they need. “It’s not about the money—it’s about the people,” Hazel says. “That’s always been the heart of this business.”
If you would like to speak with Hazel or another member of our team about planning your funeral or have her do a Q&A with your local group, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We’d love to hear from you.
Windsor Funerals provides compassionate, personalised, affordable funeral options in Auckland. Our team works closely with each family to ensure that every detail aligns with their values, budget, and vision for a meaningful farewell. We aim to help families make decisions that resonate with their loved ones’ lives and legacies. For more information or to discuss your options, contact our team at Windsor Funerals today. We’re here to support you every step of the way.