Doreen Williams-James is a funeral director and embalmer, born and raised on the beautiful island of Bermuda who is making significant contributions to her community. Both of her parents served in many capacities in the community including working in nursing homes and caring for the elderly.  This influence had a great impact on Doreen’s life which eventually persuaded her choice in the funeral profession career.

  After completing Bermuda Institute High School in 1985 she furthered her studies at Oakwood College in Huntsville, AL, where she studied pre-med for two years.  In 1987 she enrolled at the Gupton Jones College of Funeral Service in Atlanta, GA.  While attending mortuary school in Atlanta, she practiced her clinical at the Sellers Brothers Funeral Home under the direction of the late Sgt. Willie Adams.  Having gained a wealth of knowledge and expertise from Mr. Adams she gained his respect and honorability.

  After graduating from Gupton Jones in 1989 she returned to Bermuda to work for Louis Perinchief of A.J. Perinchief Funeral Home under the management of the late Voorhees Tucker. The business eventually closed down and another funeral home was opened by Mr. Tucker.  Doreen continued to work for Mr. Tucker until she opened Alpha Memorial Chapel Funeral Home in August of 1993.

 The birth of Alpha Memorial Chapel was challenged by many obstacles and roadblocks from politicians involved in trying to close the business down before it opened. With support from family, church members and others in the community Doreen made history by becoming the first female in Bermuda to own and operate her own funeral home.  Her service has been recognized and awarded by many community groups including receiving the “Best Bermuda Gold Awards” for the most compassionate funeral home.

 Doreen has two beautiful daughters, Channa and Brianna who both express an interest in the profession and hope to one day take over the business.