For more than 120 years, Piddingtons Funeral Home & Crematorium has been a cornerstone of care and compassion in the Armidale community. This long-standing local business, trusted across generations, is inviting residents to step behind the scenes and discover more about its work at a special Open Day on Saturday, 8 November, from 10am to 1pm.
“Supporting the Armidale and New England region is at the heart of what we do,” said Piddingtons Managing Director, Sam Piddington.
“For six generations, our family has had the privilege of serving local families through some of their most difficult moments, and we’re incredibly proud to continue that legacy.”
“While we’re proud of our heritage, we’re even prouder of the trust families continue to place in our team. Being able to serve this community, and contribute to it in such a meaningful way, is something we’re deeply honoured by.”
The event will offer a chance for people to learn, connect, and explore in a relaxed and welcoming environment. The team at Piddingtons is encouraging everyone—families, community members, and anyone curious about their services—to come along and take part in the day.
“This will be our first open day,” said Archie Denning from Piddingtons.
“We really want to break the stigma around funerals and death – we also have some of the nicest gardens in Armidale, so coming and wandering around those for the morning is a great way to start the conversation.”
Visitors will be able to tour the facilities, see demonstrations and presentations, and gain insight into the care and attention that go into every aspect of Piddingtons work. For many, it’s a rare opportunity to understand better how funeral care operates and how the team supports families through some of life’s most difficult moments.
“By industry standards, Piddingtons has one of the most holistic offerings for funeral care – we have the gardens, the chapel and crematorium, the monumental section where we still make our own headstones and we even offer a service for cremating pets now,’ said Mr Denning.
“All of this will be open on the day for people to come and get a behind-the-scenes look at what we do.”
“It’s very unusual to find a business that can organise absolutely everything, but we really pride ourselves in being able to be there for families through the whole process and make what can be a very stressful and traumatic time a little easier.”
The Open Day isn’t just about information—it’s also about connection. Guests can enjoy a BBQ lunch courtesy of the Lions Club, meet others from the local community, listen to some live music performed by the Armidale City Band, and take the time to ask questions in a warm and friendly setting.
Piddingtons has built its reputation on compassion, professionalism, and community involvement, values that have guided the business for more than a century. Events like this Open Day continue that tradition by bringing people together and helping to break down the barriers often associated with funeral care.
“We’d love for everyone to be part of this welcoming and informative day,” the team said. “Whether you’ve worked with us before or simply want to know more about what we do, we’d be delighted to see you.”
With its rich history of service and deep local roots, Piddingtons remains committed to caring for the Armidale region—not just through their professional work, but through events that foster understanding and community spirit.
The Piddingtons Funeral Home & Crematorium Open Day is a fantastic opportunity to discover more about one of Armidale’s most enduring family businesses, meet the people who make it what it is today, and enjoy a friendly afternoon of learning and connection.
To find out more about Piddingtons and the services they provide, visit piddingtons.com.au.
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