Making memories since 1979

Our history and legacy

Len Russell Funerals was established in 1979 by Len Russell together with his wife Pam Russell. It was his goal/dream to see a locally owned family funeral firm established in Ipswich.

old interior photo of len russell funerals in 1979 with black and white photography and coffins

Our continued commitment

Mr. Russell's dream has now been established for nearly half a century! The business is now a 2nd generation family business and is owned and operated by Darren Degen and Bradley Degen, Pam’s sons, lifetime residents of Ipswich.

black and white 1979 photo of Len Russell Funerals interior with a chair and old interior of reception area
approaching half a century

100% local --  100% Australian

Len Russell Funeral Director is currently Ipswich’s longest serving family owned funeral provider, with many other long-established family firms being sold. Darren and Bradley ensure you that you are dealing with a 100% Ipswich Family Owned, 100% Australian Owned business and a member of NFDA (National Funeral Directors Association).

Our continued commitment for today, tomorrow and since 1979 has been to offer to you the families of Ipswich and Regions:

  • Professional Service

  • True Personalised Care

  • Respect, Compassion, Understanding

  • Modern Facilities and Premises in Ipswich

  • Affordable and Reasonable Prices

  • Obligation Free Advice and Assistance

We are here to serve you, call us regardless of the hour and we will take care of every detail. Darren and staff offer you the experience of Ipswich’s currently longest serving family owned funeral firm.

len russell funerals TIMELINE

Our greatest milestones

1979

Len Russell Funerals is Established

In 1979 there were 2 funeral directors in Ipswich, both were corporately owned by separate companies. Len and Pam Russell commenced Len Russell Funerals on 1st of September 1979 at 238 Brisbane Street, West Ipswich. It was originally nestled in-between an old shop and Peter Weatherhogs World of Cars.

1997

The firm grows

In July of 1997 Pam Russell's son Darren joined Len Russell Funerals after many years of success.

1998

Expansion plans

Len and Pam purchase the adjoining site at 236 Brisbane Street. The site was once an old shop, that had many incarnations during its lifetime and 1998 was most recently a bicycle shop. The bicycle shop had long gone and the shop was white ant eaten. The shop was demolished and plans were afoot for new offices.

1999

A great loss

We were shocked when Len Russell suddenly passed away. He was a son, a husband, father, uncle, and entrepreneur but his legacy will never be forgotten.

2000

Construction complete

The construction of the new offices and the expansion to Len Russell Funerals facilities were completed by the end of 2000.

2004

A new generation

Only a few years after Len, we said our farewells to Pam who passed away suddenly in 2004. Ownership and operation of Len Russell Funerals transitioned to the next generation through sons Darren, and Bradley.

2010

Better parking, more land

As Ipswich continued to increase in population we struggled to accommodate all of our visitors and access became difficult. We then decided to purchase the corner allotment for both parking and future expansion needs.

2023

A revised vision

We recognised that we needed to make changes to our brand to better reflect the needs of our customers. Our new brand represents our longevity, our professionalism, empathy, and our commitment to celebrating every life.

The future

Our plans

Our history forms part of the very fabric of Ipswich and we have been honoured to be a part of so many families lives since 1979. We will continue this tradition as we maintain our status as Ipswich's preferred funeral service provider.

Len Russell Funeral Directors were very professional, very courteous and went above and beyond to ensure my family were taken care of

- Kelleigh Wallace
a photo of a young boho couple on their wedding day, used to commemorate their life during the funeral service