The History of Graham Family Funerals

Pierce J Keating commenced as a funeral director in Hobart in 1896. He was also a graduate of the Australian School of Embalming and obtained a diploma, thus enjoying the distinction of being the only certified member of his profession in Tasmania at that time.

Pierce J Keating’s daughter Kathleen married Leslie Goodey. Leslie and Kathleen continued the high standard of care pioneered by Pierce J Keating upon his retirement.

In 1986 a new chapter began for Pierce J Keating Funeral Directors when Peter and Ann Graham purchased the company. Peter and Ann were keen to expand the funeral home and acquired more spacious premises at 73 Risdon Road New Town. The building underwent extensive renovations, incorporating a funeral chapel, interview rooms, offices, mortuary facilities, workshop and expansive foyer. Peter and Ann’s reputation grew throughout the community for their unquestionable care and willingness to treat their clients as if family friends.

Peter Graham died suddenly on 23 February, 1995.

Today, Ann and her sons Paul and Mark strive to continue the high standards that Pierce J Keating began all those years ago. Trading under the Graham Family name, all their staff share their conviction: compassion can only comfort when genuinely felt and all families in need of this specialised service are to be treated as friends.

The Graham Family Funerals business has expanded to provide local contacts in various regions of southern Tasmania, such as Kingston, Derwent and Huon valleys.