About Us

Born in Wallsend, the youngest of four children, I left school and started working as a trainee graphic design artist. I have also worked for a specialised coating firm and was a bus driver for a number of years before becoming a trainee funeral director.
I have had appointments with two large funeral companies but I always felt the need to break away and offer my own personal approach to organising funerals and helping bereaved families.
In 2003, I agreed terms on small premises in North Shields and renovated it personally. In 2006, as the business grew, I moved to larger premises. Finally, in 2010, I took over what was the old post office in my birth town of Wallsend and created a satellite office.
I enjoy being an active member of the community, sponsoring bowls teams, donating to and attending charity golf events both locally and nationally, I am heavily involved with and am the main sponsor of North Shields Football Club and I am also on the on L.A.C. Committee of the Fisherman’s Mission at North Shields Fish quay.
I visit local care homes, residential and sheltered accommodation and churches helping with fundraising events and often supply them with raffle and tombola prizes. I also offer training to staff on our procedures and what do when someone dies.
Daren has 3 sons and lives in North Shields.
Hobbies include golf, football and cars.

I joined Funeral Partners in 2025 as a Senior Funeral Director at Daren Persson Funeral Services.
I’m passionate about guiding families through one of the most difficult times in their lives, ensuring their wishes are respected and that every farewell is both dignified and personal. My role allows me to combine professionalism and empathy to create services that truly honour each individuals life & legacy.

Bill has been a Funeral Director since 2007. Before making the transition to Funeral Director, Bill was an embalmer for 8 years. He considers it a privilege to be able to support people at one of the worst times in life.
Before embarking on a career in the funeral industry, Bill served in the Army for 9 years.
Bill enjoys buying gadgets and toys, socialising with friends and spicy food.
Bill holds a professional NEBS Certificate in Management.

Suzanne has worked for Daren Persson Funeral Directors since June 2017 after previously caring for her father-in law full time. She enjoys spending time with her grandchildren as well as baking and knitting.
Suzanne is a very family orientated person and appreciates being able to support families through their most difficult times and be a source of comfort to them when they need it most.

Heather has worked for Daren Persson since 2014 after previously being a fulltime carer for her parents.
Heather has a great relationship with the local community, who often pop in for a tea and chat.
Hobbies include traveling and visiting family.

Derek is a Funeral Service Operative. Before joining the funeral industry, he spent 30 years serving as a police officer while living in Kent, followed by a position as an immigration officer with Border Force at Newcastle Airport. Outside of work, Derek enjoys walking his dog, supporting Newcastle United, films, music, live concerts, baking up a storm in the kitchen, and relaxing with the occasional jigsaw puzzle or two.

I joined Daren Persson in May 20205, after years of being a financial advisor and self employed courier.
In my spare time, I follow Leeds United football club, I used to be a semi professional player with Gateshead and Workington. I love holidaying on the Costa Cálida, Spain.

I’ve worked at Daren Persson for a year now.
I am originally from Norfolk and moved to the North East 5 years ago.
In my spare time, I enjoy running for North Shields Poly and spending time with my family.