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Our People

Julian and Hayley Donaldson, together with Mitch and Kirsty Ireton have owned Betts Funeral Services since 2016 but the involvement of our family with Betts goes back many years. Richard Ireton (Mitch’s dad and Julian’s uncle) along with Richard’s father Howard, ran the business since 1983 and we are extremely proud to now be the third generation of our family involved in helping the people of South Canterbury.

We are passionate about caring for the families in our community to the highest of standards during the difficult time when a loved one passes. We believe in providing exceptional service and having an outstanding team of people that you can trust. Together with our team, we aim to provide the best of facilities as well as innovative products and services to ensure the perfect celebration of your loved one’s life.


Our People

Julian Donaldson

I was born and raised in Timaru and have been funeral directing since 2003, becoming qualified in 2…

Gary Burtenshaw

Born in Timaru, my wife Kim and I have raised two young girls, Emily and Oliva and completing our f…

Nyki Leonard

Moving to South Canterbury in 1984, I completed my high school years at Timaru Girls High School. T…

Phil Ireton

Hi I’m Phil (PJ). I was born and raised in Timaru and returned home a couple of years ago after ma…

Kirsty Ireton

My husband Mitch and I along with Julian and Hayley Donaldson took over the reins at Betts from Mit…

Eve Sutherland

I was born and raised in rural South Canterbury and completed my schooling at Albury Primary School…

Cheréne Pienaar

I was born in South Africa and immigrated to Timaru at the age of 8. I completed my schooling years…