9 James Street South | Forest, Ontario N0N 1J0 | Phone: (519) 786-2401 | Email: office@dennings.ca
Our Staff
Our team at Denning's understands that saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy. That's why each team member strives to be dedicated, compassionate and here to support you during this difficult time.
With a wealth of knowledge and expertise in funeral preplanning, when death occurs and during arrangements, our staff is well-equipped to guide you through the entire process. We promise to work with you and your family in your time of need to create the perfect memorial service for your loved one. We will be here for you today as well as tomorrow.
The Denning staff are honoured to serve to ensure that the members of our community and beyond are cared for during such a difficult time. For advice on what to do when a loved one is dying, making funeral arrangements, pre-arranging your own funeral, or anything else, don't hesitate to get in touch with us, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
We thank you for considering us during this important journey, and we stand ready to support you with compassion and professionalism.
Bill Denning
Owner, Celebrant &
Funeral Director
Since he was 12 years old, Bill has been involved in helping his family in the funeral home. Bill is one of the owners of Denning's and has been known in our communities as a compassionate and dedicated licensed funeral director and celebrant that creates services that reflect the life of the person and family he is serving. With many years of experience in the funeral profession, Bill has consistently provided guidance and support to families during their most difficult times. His passion for his family and the history of our communities enables Bill to create trusting relationships and to connect with people on a deeper level with everyone he meets.
Brett Denning
Owner, Celebrant &
Funeral Director
Brett is a licensed funeral director and one of the owners of Denning's. Brett learned the importance of serving families in their times of need from his family funeral home. He can be found at any of our locations, helping and developing our team. He takes pride in supporting those who are caring families and watching as our team of professionals set the bar for excellence. Brett also sits on multiple executive boards, including the Ontario Funeral Service Association and an active role as an officer at Southwest crematoriums, Canada's largest crematorium. Brett inspires and encourages personal growth in himself and those around him.
Josh Denning
Owner, Team & Media Manager
Josh is our dedicated and compassionate General Manager. His background has extensive experience in the funeral home profession and the management of ambulance service. With a profound understanding of honouring grieving families and supporting people in difficult moments, Josh wears many hats to ensure our team has the support they need. He possesses exceptional leadership skills and is deeply committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and empathy.
Courtney Denning
Hospitality Manager
Courtney is a seasoned hospitality professional passionate about delivering exceptional experiences. Within her years in the funeral industry and caring for those in need, Courtney has honed her skills in managing and coordinating operations to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Her dedication to creating memorable experiences and a keen eye for detail ease the stress for the families we serve. Courtney ensures the everyone who spends their time with us is met with warm hospitality and personalised attention.
Our Funeral Directors
Morgan Getliffe
Funeral Director
Morgan started with Denning's as an intern and became a licensed Funeral Director in 2019. Her empathy and big heart help create a deeper connection with the families she supports. After facing loss, she saw what Denning's did for her and her family, and she knew she wanted to be a part of that process for others. Her presence and ability to listen put people at ease and comfort families. The most inspiring thing about working in this field for Morgan is knowing she has made a difference in someone's grieving process.
Melanie Woelfle
Funeral Director
Melanie's undergraduate degree and double major in Psychology and Thanatology from the University of Western Ontario's King's College and her funeral services diploma from Humber College inspired her to pursue a career in the funeral industry. Her empathetic and devoted approach provides a profound understanding of the delicate nature of grief and loss. Her presence offers comfort, respect and professionalism to those in need. She understands the privilege of working in our small communities and ensuring your wishes are honoured.
Joseph Deal
Funeral Director
Joseph possesses a wealth of knowledge in providing support to mourning families. With a remarkable blend of empathy, organizational skills, and leadership abilities, He excels in overseeing many funeral arrangements. Joseph approaches every task with professionalism and perceptiveness. By understanding the significance of observing the memory of loved ones and striving to create meaningful and personalized farewell ceremonies, Joseph offers solace and guidance to families during challenging times.
Nancy Manning
Licensed Funeral Intern
Nancy acknowledges it is a tremendous honour to be able to assist families in their greatest time of need. She believes in the celebrations of the lives of our loved ones who passed and wants to be there for their families to help make a difficult time a little less difficult. Nancy is humbled and grateful Nancy is currently working towards becoming a licensed Funeral Director. Her caring support will help you on your healing journey.
Our Funeral Administrative Team
Brad Denning
Finance Officer
Brad has been an important part of Denning's team for over 35 years, providing services for our team that exceed all expectations. Early in his career, he was managing director of Denning Brothers. During this time, Brad met with many families, directed numerous funerals and, like his father before him, found time to provide ambulance service to the community. He now uses his technical and bookkeeping talents, positive attitude, and organizational support to help our office run smoothly and create a welcoming environment for our team.
Jamie Stevenson
Preplanning & Aftercare Administrator
Jamie began her career in funeral service by chance, but since joining Denning's team in 2016, she has found her passion for the funeral industry and helping families behind the scenes. Her efforts are focused on our Advanced Estate Care program. Jamie creates all of Denning's Advanced Estate Care packages for our families and works closely with Jill to collect and submit the important information needed after a death occurs. Jamie's role is essential as she helps take some of the burdens off of our families completing critical tasks on their behalf.
Jessica Rombouts
Graphic Designer & Marketing
As a skilled graphic designer and marketer specializing in the funeral industry, Jessica works behind the scenes to create memorable mementos for families. With a keen eye for aesthetics and a compassionate approach, she creates visually stunning and emotionally resonant stationery and keepsakes to impactful marketing campaigns. She loves sharing the Denning brand and conveying the unique stories and legacies of those who have passed. Jessica hopes each design captures the essence of remembrance while offering reassurance.
Sharanne MacDonald
Office Administrator
When you enter Denning's of Strathroy, you will likely be greeted with a smile from Sharanne. As our office administrator Sharanne brings compassion, organizational skills, and a deep understanding of the sensitive nature of grief. She aspires to create a welcoming and comforting environment for mourning families during difficult times. By combining her organizational skills, empathy, and dedication to exceptional service, she makes a positive difference in the lives of those who visit us in our funeral homes.
Our Support Team
Ann Moffatt
Host & Greeter
David Robinson
Host & Greeter
Janie Van Loon
Host & Greeter
Neil George
Host & Greeter
Bradley Ward
Location Caretaker
Deborah Andersen
Host & Greeter
Jill Van Loon
Host & Greeter
Brenda Jurjens
Host & Greeter
Debra Walsh
Host & Greeter
Jo-Anne Beye
Host & Greeter
Sheila Jones
Host & Greeter
Christina Morris
Host & Greeter
Joanne Zavitz
Host & Greeter
Clara Patterson
Host & Greeter
Fran Lambert
Host & Greeter
