March marks Women’s History Month, and March 8th International Women’s Day, a time to recognise the achievements, strength and influence of women throughout history. While it’s often a moment to celebrate pioneers, leaders and changemakers, it’s also a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the women closer to home who have shaped our own lives.
At Franklin & Hawkins Family Funeral Directors, we see every day how deeply women’s lives and legacies are woven into families and communities across Coventry, Solihull, Marston Green and the surrounding areas. Whether it’s a devoted mum, a much-loved nan, a caring sister or a lifelong friend, the stories families share remind us just how powerful those everyday lives truly are.
The quiet impact of everyday women
Not every influential woman is written into history books. Many are remembered in smaller, more personal ways, through recipes passed down, traditions kept alive, kindness shown in difficult times, or the steady support that held a family together.
When families come to us to arrange a funeral, it’s often these details that matter most. The music she loved. The colours she wore. The charities she supported. The small things that made her unmistakably her.
Women’s History Month is a gentle reminder that every life leaves a mark, and every story deserves to be honoured.
Celebrating local Legacy
We are extremely fortunate that through our funeral homes in Marston Green, Solihull and Tile Hill, Coventry we often see first hand the amazing and selfless dedication of local female heroes. Here are just a few we would like share the stories of-
Anna-Marie Corbett
Known as “Mum of the Community” Anna-Marie works tirelessly to help those in and around Canley. Based from the Community Centre, she runs a food bank, uniform bank and also a prom bank where local teenagers can visit to ensure they are dressed to impress for their big night. We truly think Anna-Marie is so incredible that Andy nominated her for a special surprise on Ant and Decs Saturday Night Takeaway where she was gifted a holiday live on ITV! Listen here to Anna-Marie speaking to the BBC about the Prom bank – Anna-Marie Interview
Sue Cressman
Sue dedicates herself fully to raising funds and awareness for Breast Cancer research, after beating the disease twice herself. Over the years Sue has raised more than £250,000 for equipment and state of the art treatment at hospitals in Solihull and Birmingham. This new technology leads to more accurate surgery with less damage to healthy tissue and a reduction in the need for radiation and will be used by hospitals in Solihull and Birmingham. Read all about Sue and her story here – Sue Cressman
Lindsay Oates
When launching The Nest in Tile Hill, Lindsay’s mission was clear. Her aim to provide children, young adults and their families with supportive environments that help them regulate, learn and thrive. Their focus on early intervention, accessible wellbeing and strong community partnerships is already a lifeline for so many local residents. Read more here about Lindsay’s work- The Nest
Ladies First Professional Development
At Ladies First, their ethos is to Inspire, Inform, and Introduce whilst offering a safe and respectful space for women from all backgrounds to share their stories and empower others to better themselves. They also support many charities including The Giles Trust, Medic to Medic and Surviving Bereavement. Every Summer they host a wonderful awards evening where local businesses are honoured amongst their peers. We at Franklin and Hawkins were privileged to be awarded Family Business of the year 2024 and then go on to sponsor the same award the following year and present this to a much deserved local business. More can be read about Ladies First here – Ladies First
Remembering the Women we miss
Funerals are becoming increasingly personal, and this can be especially meaningful when celebrating the life of a woman who played such an important role in her family or community.
We often help families to:
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include favourite flowers or colours that reflect her personality
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display photographs that tell the story of her life
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incorporate readings, poems or music that were special to her
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invite family members to share memories or tributes
These thoughtful touches help transform a funeral into a true celebration of a life lived, not just a goodbye, but a chance to recognise everything she meant to those around her.
Supporting families through loss
Grief can feel particularly complex when losing someone who was a central figure in the family, the organiser, the listener, the one everyone turned to. During these times, having calm, compassionate guidance can make all the difference.
As an independent, family-run funeral director serving Coventry, Solihull and nearby communities from our Tile Hill and Marston Green funeral home, we understand how important it is to take time, listen carefully, and help families create a farewell that feels right for them.
There’s no single way to honour someone’s life. What matters is that the service reflects the person they were and the love they leave behind.
Taking a moment to remember
This Women’s History Month, you might choose to:
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share a favourite memory of a woman who shaped your life
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look through old photographs with family
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visit a grave or place that feels meaningful
- support a cause that mattered to her
These simple acts of remembrance can be powerful ways to keep someone’s influence alive.
And if you are currently facing a loss, please remember you don’t have to navigate it alone. We’re always here to offer guidance, support and practical help whenever you need us. We are extremely proud of every member of our Franklin and Hawkins Family team, but on this International Women’s Day we are going to give an extra special shoutout to our ladies….Tina, Carol, Gail, Ann, Kirsty and Theresa!
If you would like advice about arranging a funeral in Coventry, Solihull or the surrounding areas, our team at Franklin & Hawkins is here to help. With care, compassion and understanding.
