Think Trelawny and you think of yam. Eighty percent of all agricultural production in the parish, consists of yams, making it the backbone of Jamaica's global export. However, there is another thriving business in the parish, as it turns out, the business of death can be quite lucrative.
From unique burial methods and memorials, Patmore’s Funeral Home, located in Lowe River Trelawny, offers funeral and cemetery services for the dead and their families.
The family-owned business has been in operation since 2003, with a branch office located in Spaldings, Clarendon. According to owner and proprietor, Paul Patmore, the company offers a wide range of services, including dealing with the necessary paperwork to enable burial or cremation.
“I started the business, when I realized there was a need in the rural community. Bodies were stored at the hospital and family members would hire a pickup van to remove bodies from the hospital to take to church for funeral services,” Patmore said.
Since the company’s inception, the business has grown exponentially, with the acquisition of its own premises, morgue and cemetery. Families now have a full-service funeral home where all their funeral arrangement needs are met.
“We started operations and have families began to have the option to take care of all their funeral needs. We have been successful at it and our customers are pleased with our service,” Patmore said.
A 2006 awardee of the Governor General’s Achievement Award, Patmore said it was challenging expanding his business. However, after being introduced to a business banker at the Scotiabank Christiana branch, he received the necessary knowledge, advice and capital that he needed to grow his business.
“My approach to business changed entirely. I changed the objective and focus of the business and ensured that I was integrally involved in its daily operations. I
also improved the facilities, ensuring the premises is more customer and staff friendly,” Patmore said.
Patmore, who also grew up the Lowe River community, has also been a champion for community development. His company has sponsored various initiatives including, football competitions, and scholarships for Primary Exit Profile (PEP) and Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) students. The company also provides economic benefits for the local farmers.
Patmore’s Funeral Home is a participant in the 2021 Scotiabank Vision Achiever programme. His business he said has reaped significant benefits including the acquisition of management and team building skills and strengthening of the relationship with his staff.
“What you see here, was not the case prior to becoming involved in the Scotiabank Vision Achiever programme. I have learnt to remain focused, engage the community, and lead my team members from the front,” Patmore said.
Patmore said he would encourage other small businesses to participate in the Scotiabank Vision Achiever programme, and get the necessary help they need to improve themselves and grow their business.
Sign In
Sign In
