Meet the Team - Allen & Son Funeral Directors

JAMES DRURY

Company Director & Funeral Director

CERT. FP MIFDC

I entered the funeral industry in 2017, gaining valuable experience with long-established, family-run independent funeral directors. I had previously spent 15 years in the ambulance service and have always worked in people-focused roles. With a father in the forces, I lived in various places worldwide during my childhood, including Hong Kong and Northern Ireland, before settling on the Isle of Wight. I moved to Oxfordshire in 1997 and now live in Moreton-in-Marsh. I enjoy a wide range of hobbies, when time allows, such as watching Formula 1, exploring archaeological and historical sites, and reading crime thrillers. I hold several professional and vocational qualifications from past roles, including a Diploma in the Principles of End-of-Life Care. I am, and always have been, committed to maintaining high standards, pursuing continuous professional development, and staying current with new, better practices and guidance, and currently hold a Cert FP qualification in the funeral profession. With a background in aeronautical engineering, I am good at solving practical problems, fixing computers, and handling DIY tasks, and enjoy using these abilities to help others. Of course, walking Badger does take up some of my time, but in any spare time, I like to bake, and my shortbread, Victoria sponge, and lemon drizzle cakes are always popular at the charity fundraising coffee mornings we regularly hold.

DIANE DRURY

Company Director & Funeral Administrator

I joined the funeral profession in 2015 after a 30-year career in banking. My main responsibilities include meeting with families to discuss funeral arrangements, offering guidance and support, and managing the office's day-to-day operations. Originally from Staffordshire, I have lived and worked in several counties over the years, but now love living in Moreton-in-Marsh. In any spare time, I share James' passion for visiting castles and cathedrals, and love to take Badger for walks in our beautiful countryside.

BADGER

Office Assistant

Badger, affectionately known as our office assistant or "dog's body," joined us in August 2023 at 12 weeks old. His training is progressing well, though he enjoys more lunch and rest breaks than the rest of the team! A friendly cockapoo, Badger comes to the office every day and loves being around people. He’s happy to say hello and offer cuddles for families who love dogs. For those who prefer not to interact, he can easily be kept in our office, otherwise known as his playroom.

OUR SUPPORT TEAM

Our experienced team of casual staff assist us in ensuring all our services are conducted in a professional and dignified manner, whether it be pall-bearing at funeral services or bringing your loved ones into our care. All are local gentlemen, some of whom have lived in Moreton their entire lives. We are very grateful to have such a dedicated and caring team.

Your kindness has meant the world to myself and my sister during this tremendously difficult time.

January 2026

We will always be eternally grateful for all the support and professionalism during the loss of my dad. A huge thank you also to Peter Allen for escorting my dad to the church.
So kind and helpful nothing was too much trouble.
Thank you so very much x

May 2026

Thank you all for your hard work and support over the last twenty months or so, it is much appreciated, you have all made a difficult and upsetting situation much easier to understand, work through and emerge from.

February 2026

I wanted to thank you for arranging such a beautiful send-off for my mother. My family and I appreciated it very much.

April 2026

Diane and James were absolutely wonderful at what was a very difficult time for us. The support they provided was sensitive and compassionate and delivered in a kind and caring manner while remaining professional and dignified. Everything was communicated and explained clearly and there was no pressure to make any decisions until we were ready to do so. Nothing was too much trouble and their attention to detail was first class. I would have no hesitation in recommending them.

July 2025