TJ Scott
 Thomas J. Scott, founder


TJ Scott & Son - Funeral Directors Melbourne

TJ Scott & Son have a proud history of serving the community as funeral directors, providing Burial & Cremation Services in the Macedon Ranges, Melbourne and throughout Victoria. They can also arrange transportation for funeral services interstate and overseas in conjuction with other Funeral Directors.  TJ Scott & Son are also the experts in Pre-arranged & Pre-paid funerals.

Family History

T.J. Scott & Son Funeral Directors was first established in 1938 when Thomas John Scott retired as a Sargent from the Victorian Police Force to buy a small Undertaking business from Charles Williams.  Joined by his son Leo, the business operated out of premises in Mollison St, Kyneton with a 1939 Packard Hearse and a Vanguard Utility.   At that time, T.J. Scott & Son was one of three small Undertaking firms in Kyneton.  Although each catered for different denominations, they regularly helped each other out with funerals.

Thomas saw the business grow and soon established a professional reputation and a tradition of trust within the community.  Shortly after, Leo left the business to join the air force.  At this stage Thomas was regularly helped out by his other son, John Gerard (Jack), as well as by various casuals from the police station and the old malt house in town.  Jack Scott soon joined the business full-time to become the ‘Son’ in T.J. Scott & Son.

Jack and Carrie
Jack & Carrie Scott, c. 1941.

At first, Jack was not too sure about the thought of being a Funeral Director, preferring to pursue other interests such as fixing wirelesses and running a garage as a mechanic.  However, as Thomas' health gradually deteriorated it was Jack and his wife Caroline who, around 1946 took over the reins of T.J. Scott and Son.  Thomas J. Scott passed away in 1956.

In 1957 new premises were built at 57 Piper Street in Kyneton.  Jack and Carrie continued running the business until their son, John, joined the family firm in 1966.  By that time, T.J. Scott & Son was the sole Funeral Directing firm in the Kyneton district. Then in its third generation, Jack and John operated the business themselves for some 20 years from 57 Piper Street. During this time, the vehicles used as hearses included a 1968 Valiant Safari and a 1976 Valiant Regal.

In 1980, Jack's youngest son, Robert, joined the business in the fast growing communities of the Macedon Ranges. In 1981, they purchased the old Baptist Church and moved the operation of T.J. Scott & Son to its present location at 5 Piper Street Kyneton. Around 1985, Jack retired from full time work, although he and Carrie continued to oversee and assist John and Robert for some time.

Jack and Sons
Jack Scott with his two sons, Robert & John (1985)

In what was one of the biggest developments for T.J. Scott & Son, major renovations to the premises of 5 Piper St took place in 1988.  While preserving original brick portions of the old Baptist church, the rear of the building underwent a significant extension and expansion.  This included a new, spacious 200 capacity funeral chapel and modern mortuary facilities.  Officially opened on April 29th 1989, the new Thomas J. Scott Memorial Chapel was a pioneering improvement to the standard of excellence within the Funeral Industry for Country Victoria. This was not only a source of great pride for Jack and Carrie, but it also gave them the confidence in knowing that both T.J. Scott & Son and the communities they serve were in good hands.

Carrie and Jack
Jack & Carrie Scott on their 50th Wedding Anniversary (1991)

In 1990, T.J. Scott & Son moved into its fourth generation with the addition of John's eldest child, Kelly to the team.   As one of the unique features of this family owned and operated business, Kelly became the first female family member to arrange and conduct funerals in the Kyneton district, offering people the option of both male and female funeral consultants.   Kelly's brother John Thomas (Jack) joined the business in 1991 after completing his secondary studies and shortly thereafter introduced T.J. Scott & Son to the modern world of computerisation.  Always striving for excellence, the business took another step forward when, in 1994-95, Kelly completed the 'Certificate in Bereavement Studies' course and Jack the 'Certificate in Mortuary Science (Embalming)' course.  Daniel Scott, the youngest child of Managing Director, John, also joined the family business in 1996.  Shortly after, John and Robert's brother-in-law, Bernie, also became part of the T.J. Scott & Son team.  The family tradition continued when Bernie's son Paul became the fourth great-grandchild of Thomas to become involved in the business. 

In May 1993, John Gerard (Jack) Scott passed away at the age of 85. As the 'son' in T.J. Scott & Son, Jack dedicated over 40 years of his life to the funeral industry throughout the Macedon Ranges. His beloved wife, Carrie, continued to take an energetic interest in the workings of T.J. Scott & Son, and great pride in seeing many of her ten grandchildren continuing on in the family business.

In recent years, Robert and Bernie have left T.J. Scott & Son, but the Scott family tradition continues in its fourth generation.  It has been 75 years since the business was established by Thomas J. Scott, yet it continues today as a 100% family owned and operated funeral firm.  While respecting past traditions, T.J. Scott and Son are continually looking out for future innovations which may better enable them to serve the growing needs of the community.

In July 2009, Carrie Scott, the dearly loved matriarch of the Scott family, passed away at the age of 99.  Carrie & Jack Scott will always be remembered as part of TJ Scott & Son.

TJ Scott current staff members

Now in it’s fourth generation of family members, T.J. Scott & Son Scott name is recognised as one of trust, compassion and professionalism.  Their wide range of services is continually broadening, moving towards the twenty first century with an open mind yet sensitive to traditional values.  They also offer a choice of male and female funeral consultants, to complete and carry out a funeral, with Kelly Scott helping to change the public's view of today's Funeral Director. T.J Scott & Son also offer Pre-Arranged funerals, and, in conjunction with Australian Unity and Lifeplan, comprehensive Pre-Paid Funeral Bonds, providing the highest security.

Despite their solid reputation, T.J. Scott & Son are never content with their high standard of service and are continually striving for excellence.


 

Staff & Family Members

John Scott
John Scott

John is the Director of T.J. Scott & Son Funeral Directors, and has over 40 years experience in the funeral industry. John is a registered celebrant and has served for many years as a National and State Councillor for the A.F.D.A. He was honoured to become the National President of the A.F.D.A for 2009-10.  John has been actively involved in the community giving talks on suicide and its effects on those left behind and Family Research. He has three children, Kelly, Jack and Daniel, all of whom have followed him into the family business. John enjoys playing golf, socialising with friends, travelling and he also has an interest in Horse Racing, being on the committee of the Kyneton & District Race Club. Most recently, he was made Australia's representative to the World Council of Funeral Service. 

Kelly Scott
Kelly Scott

Kelly is the General Manager who, with over 20 years experience in the funeral industry, is continuing the Scott family tradition. Kelly specialises in Pre-Paid Funerals because she realises how much Pre-planning a funeral eases the financial and emotional strain for those left behind. With the recent increase in Pre-planning products on the market, such as Funeral Insurance, Kelly is available to have a chat with you about the different options and what may suit you and your family best. 

Kelly continues to learn about the ever evolving funeral profession. She has completed the AFDA Certificate in Bereavement Studies and is the 2011 AFDA Scholarship winner. Kelly was also invited to present at the Asia Funeral Expo in Hong Kong in May 2012.

Jack Scott
Jack Scott

Jack also has over 20 years experience in the Funeral Profession, having joined the T.J. Scott team in 1991.  He is a qualified Embalmer and a member of the Australian Institute of Embalming.  In 1996 he returned to full time study, completing a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology).  Subsequently, he returned to T.J. Scott & Son, and later completed 4th Year Psychology part time.  He is now Finance Manager and the behind-the-scenes person when it comes to IT and other technical matters.

Daniel Scott
Daniel Scott

Daniel joined the family business in 1996 after studying and traveling throughout Europe.  Daniel has successfully completed a Bachelor of Applied Science (Psychology) at the University of Ballarat.  Daniel is the Funeral Operations Manager, whose primary role is arranging and conducting funerals. He takes great pride in work when a funeral is planned and carried out according to the family’s wishes.

 
Jenoel Foreman

Well known in the Kyneton area, Jenoel joined TJ Scott & Son in 2011 in search of a new challenge. Having had a wide range of life experiences, Jenoel has quickly become a valued member of the team. 


 

Matthew Darby

Matthew also joined TJ Scott & Son in 2011 having been interested in pursuing a career in the industry for some time. He is involved in a wide range of roles and demonstrates his care and professionalism on a daily basis.  Matthew is recently married and he and his wife are expecting their first.  His interests include football as well as antiques and collectables. 

Brian Flynn

Brian joined TJ Scott & Son at the end of 2011, bringing with him years of experience in the Funeral Profession.  Having worked for a number of years with Bamford's Funeral Services in Kilmore, Brian has a strong understanding of both country and metropolitan funerals, as well as the diverse needs of the community.  Brian is married with four children and has a keen interest in Vintage Cars, Gardening and Landscaping. 

The Staff at TJ Scott & Son

TJ Scott & Son is also proud to employ a number of other local people on a part time basis.  Their understanding and professionalism make them invaluable members of the TJ Scott team.


 

Kyneton Funeral Chapel

Kyneton Funeral Home
The Thomas J. Scott Memorial Chapel
5 Piper St. Kyneton, Victoria

T.J. Scott & Son started out as one of three small funeral directing firms in Kyneton, operating out of a house in Mollison Street.  Much has changed since then.

In 1957, new premises were built at 57 Piper Street in Kyneton.  The business operated from this address for over 20 years.  In 1981, the Scott’s purchased the old Baptist Church and moved the operation of T.J. Scott & Son to its present location at 5 Piper Street Kyneton.  As the business grew, it soon became apparent that changes were needed.  In 1988 major renovations began.  Other than the very front of the original part of the church, an entirely new building was constructed.  To facilitate the growing needs of the community, as well as the need for a more professional and functional premises, a significant extension to the building took place.  This included a new, spacious 200 capacity funeral chapel, modern mortuary facilities, private conference rooms, off-street parking, a double garage and carport, as well as a private residence at the rear. 

Kyneton Opening
The opening of the Thomas J. Scott Memorial Chapel
From left: Robert Scott, Fr. McCormack, John Scott,
Tom Reynolds, Rev. John Roberts, Jack Scott.

The Thomas J. Scott Memorial chapel was officially opened on April 29th 1989 by then State Coroner, Hal Hallenstein.  In attendance were local clergy, members of the community and, of course, the patriarch and matriarch of the Scott family, Jack and Carrie.  The new premises were a pioneering improvement to the standard of funeral service for country Victoria. It was a great source of pride for Jack and Carrie, giving them the confidence in knowing that both T.J. Scott & Son and the communities they serve were in good hands.

Jack and Carrie
Jack and Carrie Scott at the opening with their sons.

Today, there are an increasing number of both religious and non-denominational funeral services held in the chapel.  Recently refurbished, the Thomas J. Scott Memorial Chapel is suitable for both large and small services.  It features an indoor/outdoor sound system and also enables DVD presentations, audio and video recordings and a variety of other additional services to enhance a funeral service. 

Chapel

Chapel Foyer

Inside the Thomas J. Scott Memorial Chapel


 

  
Gisborne Consulting Rooms

After operating out of their Kyneton funeral chapel for over 60 years, the need arose for a second office from which to provide funeral consultation. Continuing their aim to better serve the Macedon Ranges, T.J. Scott & Son opened up their newly appointed Funeral Consulting Rooms at 46 Aitken St, Gisborne. The move was especially designed to make their services more accessible to people throughout the Macedon Ranges. 

Opening in 2000, the new consulting rooms in Gisborne specialises in Pre-paid and Pre-arranged funerals, professional grief counselling, as well as providing general funeral information.  Lying in the southern foothills of the Macedon Ranges, Gisborne is only 30 minutes from Melbourne, making it an idyllic place to live for rural dwellers and commuters alike.  With warm and comfortable surroundings, the Consulting rooms provide greater convenience for not only Gisborne, but also to nearby localities such as Macedon, Mt. Macedon, Riddells Creek, Bullengarook and Sunbury. TJ Scott & Son are committed to providing services as funeral directors in Melbourne’s outer regions.

In 2011, they moved next door to Shop 6 / 50 Aitken St Gisborne.  The new Gisborne Consulting Rooms were fully renovated to create a warm environment for funeral consulation. 

Funeral Vehicles

New Cars 
The prestige funeral vehicles used by T.J. Scott & Son

The choice of funeral vehicles is an important one, and in keeping with their professional standards, T.J. Scott and Son take great pride in the vehicles they use.  Just as the premises of T.J. Scott & Son have changed over the years, so too have their vehicles.  When T.J. Scott & Son was first established in 1938 by Thomas J. Scott, they operated out of a small building in Mollison St, Kyneton with a custom-built, 1939 Packard Hearse and a Vanguard Utility.

Packard
The Packard Hearse (c. 1945) at Baynton St - Carrie's home until 2007

The 60’s and 70’s
After using a Packard for some time, the Scott family purchased a brand new Valiant Safari in 1968 as their new Hearse and then shortly after they began using a 1976 Valiant Regal.

The 1980’s
In the mid-1980's T.J. Scott & Son took another step forward in funeral vehicles with the purchase of a new, specially modified Ford LTD Hearse & Mourning Car.  Did you know that hearses are not factory made?  Each one must be specially modified and extended by one of the few specialty car conversion companies around Australia.  Usually the conversion of a station wagon into a hearse costs more than the station wagon itself.

Ford LTD
1983 Ford LTD Hearse & Mourning Car

The 1990’s
After the silver Ford LTD vehicles, T.J. Scott & Son returned to traditional black. Around 1991 they made the purchase of a new, specially converted, black Ford LTD Hearse. A few years later it was upgraded to a newer model which was joined by a 1997 Ford LTD stretch limousine.

Latest Ford 
The Ford LTD’s

The Scott’s pride themselves on the presentation of their funeral vehicles.  They have recently updated once again to offer the most modern and comfortable funeral cars available.  In 2008, T.J. Scott & Son introduced a specially modified Holden Caprice Hearse and two matching Holden Caprice Sedans which are used as mourning cars. 

Alternative Options
As a part of T.J. Scott & Sons commitment to offering an ever-growing range of services to personalise a funeral service, they are able to offer other, more unique, funeral vehicles.  The Scott’s have also organised a variety of alternative options – unique requests for families, such as the use of fire trucks (with permission), prized family utilities, horse-drawn hearses and a Harley-Davidson side-car.   The use of such alternatives will depend of availability and circumstances.