The Valentines story

Valentines Family Funeral Directors was founded on a simple belief: at one of life’s hardest moments, every family deserves to be treated with genuine kindness, dignity and care.

Our Managing Director, Gary Valentine-Fuller, began his career in funeral service at just fifteen years old, washing hearses and making tea at a long-established South London funeral directors. What began as a first job soon became a lifelong calling. Over the years, Gary learned that funeral directing is never simply a profession; it is a privilege: being trusted to care for someone’s loved one and to guide a family through an incredibly personal time.

In 2015, Gary co-founded Valentine & Turner Funeral Directors, and in later years transitioned the business to Valentines Family Funeral Directors with his wife, Kirsty, bringing that experience, compassion and family-first approach to Orpington and the surrounding communities.

The name “Valentines” is more than a surname. It represents the values at the heart of everything we do: warmth, respect, honesty and the belief that it is nice to be nice. We understand that no two people, and no two families, are the same. That is why we take the time to listen, offer clear guidance and create a funeral that feels right for the person being remembered.

Whether you are arranging a traditional funeral, a celebration of life, a simple direct cremation or something completely individual, our family and team will be by your side at every step. We can help with every detail, from the first phone call through to the day of the funeral and beyond, always with care, professionalism and no pressure.

We are proud to be an independent, family-run funeral director. It means that when you come to Valentines, you are not simply another case or number. You are a family placing your trust in ours, and we will be by your side, every step of the way.