Nigel Lymn Rose, chairman of A.W. Lymn The Family Funeral Service, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the British Empire) for his extensive contributions to the bereaved community. This recognition appears on the New Year’s Honours list and marks a significant milestone in Lymn Rose’s 50-year career in the funeral industry. He describes receiving this honour as the “accolade of a lifetime.”
Long-standing Commitment to Service
A.W. Lymn The Family Funeral Service has been a staple in the East Midlands for over 117 years, with 25 branches including locations in Bingham, Bottesford, and Radcliffe on Trent. Under Nigel Lymn Rose’s leadership, the family-run business has flourished, providing compassionate support to families during their most challenging times.
Expressing his gratitude, Lymn Rose shared, “I’m on cloud nine. It’s simply amazing.” He emphasized the collective effort behind this achievement, stating, “Without the support of the staff and colleagues and families, this award wouldn’t have been possible.” The news was particularly overwhelming for him, as it was confirmed just a week before Christmas.
Throughout his career, Lymn Rose has held various significant roles, including serving as president of the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) during its centenary in 2005. His contributions to the industry have also been recognized through multiple awards, including the Good Funeral Awards Lifetime Achievement award in 2015. In 2019, he received the distinction of Honorary Membership from the NAFD, becoming only the 30th individual to achieve this honour in the association’s 116-year history.
A Legacy of Compassion and Support
Nigel Lymn Rose reflected on the personal impact of this recognition, stating, “My first thought was ‘why me?’ followed by how grateful I am and have been throughout my entire career.” He expressed a deep sense of appreciation for his late father, wishing he could share this moment with him. “I know he would be so proud,” he added.
With a commitment to serving the bereaved, Lymn Rose articulated the importance of the funeral profession, stating, “What we do is offer kind, calm and considered words and practical services to help on the worst of days.” His dedication to providing compassionate care has been a cornerstone of A.W. Lymn’s philosophy.
Starting his career early, Lymn Rose qualified as an embalmer at just 17 years old after studying at the Midlands School of Embalming. He earned his Diploma in Funeral Directing in December 1973, followed by a BSc in management science from Warwick University in 1976. Joining the family business in 1979, he has consistently championed the values of dignity and respect in the industry.
A.W. Lymn not only focuses on funeral services but also operates the A.W. Lymn The Centenary Foundation, a charitable initiative that has raised nearly £400,000 for Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH) Charity since 2018. This foundation reflects Lymn Rose’s belief in giving back to the community.
His son, Matthew Lymn Rose, who serves as managing director and represents the fifth generation in the family business, praised his father’s unwavering dedication. “Nigel lives and breathes his work,” he remarked. Matthew recalled a time when his father interrupted a holiday to assist a stranger with funeral arrangements, illustrating his deep commitment to service. “It is an honour to follow my father’s example of how to lead with dignity and compassion,” he stated.
As A.W. Lymn continues its legacy under Nigel Lymn Rose’s guidance, the MBE award serves as a testament to the profound impact of dedicated service in the funeral profession, highlighting the importance of compassion during life’s most difficult moments.
