Our Team

Kenneth Southan
Manager
Ken has been an integral part of Bernard Laverty for over 25 years. His expertise spans all aspects of the funeral industry, and he also manages our monumental masonry work. His deep knowledge of the local area and the families within the community is an invaluable asset to our team.
Ken is a dedicated member of the Bowraville community. Outside of work, his interests include farming and raising beef cattle, which he pursues alongside his two sons. He also enjoys spending quality time with his granddaughters.

Mandy Spear
Funeral Arranger
Mandy initially served as our dedicated florist for over 15 years, during which she also frequently assisted with other duties. This background made her transition to the role of Funeral Arranger in 2021 a seamless and natural progression. Having lived in the Nambucca Valley for over 25 years, Mandy is deeply connected to the community. She approaches every family with genuine respect and empathy, providing professional care and meticulous attention to detail to ensure your loved one receives a perfect send-off.
Outside of work, Mandy enjoys cruising and taking family holidays with her husband, daughter, and son. She also stays active by running, playing basketball and touch football.

Annabelle Spear
Funeral Arranger
Annabelle joined our team as a Funeral Arranger in June 2023. She genuinely enjoys meeting with families and utilises her gentle and compassionate nature to guide and support them during their time of grief. She has quickly become a valuable member of our team.
Outside of work, Annabelle—a dedicated ‘Swiftie’—keeps busy caring for her young family.

Michael Summerville
Funeral Director
Michael has worked at Bernard Laverty Funerals for over 7 years and is employed as a funeral director and monumental masonry worker. Being born and bred in the Nambucca Valley, he takes pride in helping families he has known for many years. In his spare time he enjoys surfing, fishing and working on the perfect home brewed beer.

Darren Hoffman
Funeral Director
Darren has been working in the funeral industry since June, 2023 as a funeral director. Darren comes with a horticulturalist background and helps keep our gardens freshly manicured. He also helps with monumental masonry work. During football season Darren can be seen on the footy field with the Macksville Sea Eagles Rugby League Club as their First Aid Officer.

Samantha Williams
Funeral Arranger
Samantha has worked for Bernard Laverty as a Funeral Arranger for around 9 years. She had a 5 year break to raise her family and work casually in other industries like hospitality and education which has equipped her with a range of skills and perspectives she now brings back to her role as a Funeral Arranger. Sam has grown up in the Nambucca Valley and has strong ties to the local community. Sam’s passion for helping families during their most vulnerable times shows her empathy & dedication to her work. Outside of work Sam enjoys spending time by the water fishing with her husband & 2 boys and can also be found helping out with the local Junior Rugby League football club.

Jules Kyle
Florist
Jules has over 25 years of experience and takes great pride in creating truly special flower arrangements. She provides beautiful designs for all occasions, including funerals, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, or just because. Beyond her floral expertise, Jules is also an integral part of our team, offering her assistance in all areas of the funeral home.
In her spare time, Jules runs a farm with her husband and enjoys spending time with her son and daughter.

