Charles E. Ashton began as a small joinery business in North Featherstone, founded in 1954 by Eddie Ashton.

After serving seven years in the army, Eddie set his sights on becoming a Funeral Director and dreamed of establishing a Chapel of Rest—an ambitious goal at a time when such facilities were virtually unheard of.

Over the following years, Eddie fulfilled that vision, building the Chapel of Rest in Glass Houghton. During this time, he married Iris, of Cutsyke, and together they ran the business from their home.

Their son Dean later joined as a Partner, with his wife Alison—a former Legal Secretary—managing the office operations.

As the business grew, the premises were gradually extended, culminating in the construction of a purpose-built office overlooking the Glass Houghton roundabout.

Alongside supporting the business, Iris pursued a career in education, teaching in Castleford and eventually becoming a Head Teacher in Pontefract. Her dedication to both her profession and the family business was instrumental in its development.

The family later expanded further, building attractive new premises in Pontefract, which earned them a prestigious Civic Award.

Today, Dean and Alison’s children Charlotte and Mathew have joined the business full-time, along with Charlotte’s husband, Luke.

Together, the Ashton family continues to uphold a strong reputation for delivering a traditional, personal, and compassionate service to the community.