The family of a Land Rover-loving father organised the most fitting farewell by hiring our one-of-a-kind Defender hearse for his final journey.
Steven passed away earlier this year after a long battle with cancer. An optimist to the end, he delegated the arrangements for his funeral to his loving family, confident that they would know what was best.
A life-long fan of the Land Rover brand, Steven had often expressed a desire to own one and prior to his death, the family had enjoyed a Land Rover experience, fulfilling this dream in some part.
Arranging the funeral through our Inverurie team, Steven’s wife Janet, son-in-law Daniel and daughter Jennifer, noticed the newly available Land Rover Defender Hearse on our website. Jennifer said: “It was fitting for Dad in so many ways, it was the car he always wanted.”
Launched in summer 2024, the Land Rover Defender hearse was built in collaboration with specialists Engine 710 to meet the exacting requirements of a premium funeral hearse. Using original and specialist upgraded Land Rover parts, the team created a one-of-a-kind Defender hearse with a bespoke panoramic roof, updated chassis, a customised low deck to allow a coffin, floral tribute, and LED lights and a fully opening back door.
Andrew Purves, who spearheaded the Land Rover launch, said: “The demand for a Land Rover hearse in Scotland was evident. The vehicle is incredibly meaningful for families who treat it like one of the family. Since launching the vehicle earlier this year, those who have hired it have chosen it with excitement because it clearly means so much to them and their loved ones.”
On the day of the funeral, the Land Rover hearse was the perfect tribute to Steven. Jennifer said: “It surpassed all expectations.
“Coming down the drive, it had such a presence. Seeing the wicker coffin decorated with the beautiful flowers and recognisable brand, it was so classy and simply perfect.”
She added: “Using the Land Rover made the saddest journey that little bit easier. The hearse translated sadness and anxiety into something celebratory. It wouldn’t have been the funeral it was without the Land Rover – I’m so proud we did the best for him.”
Sharon Laing, Funeral Director to Steven’s family, said: “It was an honour to help this family at a difficult time but even moreso, to do Steven justice in his final journey.”
William Purves’ Land Rover Defender hearse is available for hire for funerals and by funeral directors. Visit the hearse’s website here: https://www.landrover-hearse.co.uk
