OUR TEAM


At Gillions we have a team approach to caring for our client families and their loved one.
Since industry training first started for the funeral industry in New Zealand Gillions have embraced it.

Our team of qualified and registered funeral directors and embalmers are here to give guidance and help.

Keith Gillions

Managing Director  B. Com., Dip FD, Dip Emb
Qualified and Registered Funeral Director

Keith is the third generation of the Gillions family involved in the business. His passion and talent for technology has seen him develop innovations in funeral services, from live internet streaming to remote participation for those not able to attend in person.


“Spending my childhood around the industry has given me a solid grounding in the profession and has been beneficial in teaching me how best to assist people at such a vulnerable time.”


Elizabeth Goodyear

Business Manager B.A., G.C. SocSc
Elizabeth re-joined the company in 2012 in a business support role. As well as working with client
families, she provides the HR, financial and marketing services for the company.

She is married to Keith Gillions and combines her role at Gillions with her family focus.

Lee Buckingham

Qualified and Registered Funeral Director/ Embalmer Dip FD, Dip. Emb.

Lee has an extensive background in support services for the New Zealand Police, both in Dunedin and Wanaka.


In 2014, Lee completed the Weltec embalming course graduating with top theory.


"I enjoy working alongside the team at Gillions - together we work with our client families and aim to give them the best service we can."


"I believe caring for the deceased and offering compassionate support to the family and helping them through the funeral process is an honour and a privilege."


Our greater team


As well as our day to day team we have additional team support.

Paolo Guglietta

Funeral Consultant, Funeral Director and Embalmer
A. Emb, Dip FD

Although Paolo now operates as an independent contractor, he continues to work with us.


Paolo has international experience in all facets of the funeral service industry and shows genuine compassion and attention to detail in his work.


He is currently one of the practical examiners for the industry embalming course.


 “I am proud to be associated with Gillions Funeral Services and my aim is to provide families with a positive lasting memory of their loved one.”