Funeral Tribute

Raymond Dryden “RAY” SMOKEY

07/05/1933

21/06/2025

Originally from Gympie and late of Bracken Ridge. Ray passed away peacefully in “The Prince Charles Hospital” surrounded by the love of his family on Saturday 21^st June 2025. At the time of his passing Ray was only 92 years of age.

Ray has now rejoined his loving wife and soulmate, Mary, their son, Leslie and Kathleen (previous marriage), who passed before him. Ray also leaves behind his loving children Terry, Dianne, Christene, Ricky, Rodney, Teressa and their partners.

Ray or Grandad, Pop, Poppy, Grand Poppy as he was better known also leaves behind his adoring grandchildren Ishtar, Elisha, Reece, Tiarna, Isaak, Kyle, Shanoah, Cody, Jaiden, Braydon, Raymond, Finlay, Pheonix, Hannah, Sapphire, Lulu and great grandchildren Tristian, Imogen, Tilly, Artie, Axle, Brady, Jamieson who will always remember him for his love and smiles.

At this time Ray’s family would like to thank the Doctors, Nurses and Support staff of The Prince Charles Hospital for the care and attention that helped to make his final hours as happy and peaceful as possible.

Ray’s family and friends are warmly invited to attend his celebration of life service that will be held in Victory Church Carseldine Brisbane on Tuesday 1^st July 2025 commencing at11:00 AM.

After the service Ray will be privately buried with his wife and Son.

For those who are unable to attend the service will be live streamed

Where

Victory Church Carseldine

When

Tuesday 1st July 2025

Time

Private

Address

Private

Sorry I can't be there in person. Comforted that you went on your own terms Dad. Till we meet again, and I can pull your finger

Dianne Dryden

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Excellent

Academy Funerals

4.6

Based on 181 reviews

Michelle Kuhnert

At a difficult time in our lives, it was a pleasure to meet Ashley from Academy Funerals and have his help in guiding us through the process of arranging the funeral for our loved one. From beginning to end he was caring and helpful. Highly recommended. Thank you so much Ashley.

Response from the owner: Hi MichelleYour kind words are very much appreciated. It was an honor to assist you and your family, and we’re touched that you took the time to leave such a lovely review.With thanks,Ashley

GIANNI'S HOME PIZZA

Asley definitely know what he is doing his approach and understanding and wisedoom definitely deserves 5 stars thanks Asley for your services

Response from the owner: We sincerely appreciate your thoughtful review. Our team takes great pride in ensuring every family receives personal and compassionate service, and your feedback reminds us why we do what we do.Kind regards,Ashley

Zoe Stevens

Compassionate, understanding and very helpful.We couldn't be more grateful for Ashley's help navigating through this unfortunate process.

Response from the owner: Hi ZoeThank you for your kind words them mean a lot to us

Julia Lomas

Following the passing of our father, Academy Funerals has exceeded expectations - we cant thank you enough Ashley for your care, kindness and support during the most difficult time. Our experience has been exceedingly positive. Thank you Ashley and team, you went over and above for us.

Response from the owner: Hi JulieThank you for sharing your review for us it is always nice to have families who appreciate our efforts Thank you

Donna Simcox

Ashley and the team at Academy Funerals were fantastic. Their patience and compassion for the passing of our mother was so greatly appreciated.Their care for our mum was evident.It didn’t matter what time of day it was Ashley was always willing to open the doors to let us have that one last moment with mum.The flower arrangement was beautiful and she look radiant and peaceful in her eternal resting bed.Thank you so much Ashley. We truly appreciate all that you have done for us.

Response from the owner: Thank you so much for your review it means so much to know that we have been a small part of a truly wonderful laded life story . Kind regards Ashley

Narelle Furness

My experience with Ashley was amazing, he was caring, friendly and helped me navigate a traumatic time in our families lives, he was constantly checking too see if I was ok. He answered every question I had and he was a shoulder to lean on. I cannot recommend Acedemy Funerals enough they will help you through one of the toughest moments in your life. Don't go to a big firm, I tried and was just a number too them.

Response from the owner: It means the world to us to know that our care made a difficult time a little easier for your family. – Regards Ashley

Jessica Scott

Academy Funerals are amazing. I can't thank Ashley enough for everything he did for us through this hard time. Ashley made the whole process easy and comfortable. Academy Funerals are all about the family and the deceased and what they would like and not about the profit they could make which I really appreciated. Thank you again for making this difficult time more manageable.

Response from the owner: We truly appreciate your lovely review. Supporting families with compassion and respect is what we strive for every day. Thank you for trusting us. – Regards Ashley

Darryl Miller

I would like to acknowledge the professional service of Ashley, in the way he so kindly assisted our family in this time of sadness. Not only his professionalism but his empathy and compassionate understanding shown to our family. I highly recommend Academy Funerals.

Response from the owner: Your feedback touched our hearts. Knowing that we could provide comfort and guidance during such a sensitive time is deeply meaningful to us. – Regards Ashley

Louise Martin

Very considerate of what were going through, never hounded or continually called. After my mother Passed this company were very professional and helped me navigate through something I had no idea about. I had never had to deal with a funeral and Ashley was extremely helpful and informative.

Response from the owner: We’re so grateful for your kind review. Every family we serve reminds us why we do what we do — thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey. – Regards Ashley

Glen Miller

I found Ashley and his team to be very helpful, respectful, compassionate and understanding of our needs and followed the legislation to the law. I would definitely recommend Ashley and his staff to anyone who is in need of his services. Continue doing your best work

Response from the owner: Thank you for sharing your experience. We’re honoured to have helped celebrate your loved one’s life with dignity and care. – Regards Ashley

Kerry Roebuck

Ashley, the funeral director, was extremely professional in every way possible. Ashley was also very compassionate, kind, Helpful, and very respectful in our time of grief.

Response from the owner: We’re humbled by your kind feedback. Our goal is always to make each farewell as personal and meaningful as possible. Regards Ashley

Kirsty Roebuck

The funeral director, named Ashley was so professional in every step of the way. Cannot recommend him enough. If I could give 10/10 stars I would.

Response from the owner: Your thoughtful words mean so much. We know how important it is to get every detail right, and we’re glad our efforts brought you comfort. – Regards Ashley

Sema Itil

I spoke to Ashley on behalf of my friend whose son died. I knew from the moment I spoke to Ashley that Academy Funerals would be perfect. Ashley is a patient and caring man who made such a difficult time so much easier. The funeral home is lovely and feels warm and homey. I highly recommend this family businessthat is not there just for the dollars but care about families who have lost their loved one. My friend and her family were so grateful and felt listened to. Keep up the good work.

Response from the owner: Your support and kind words are greatly appreciated. It’s an honour to help families like yours when they need it most. Regards Ashley

Cameron Moore

Thank you so much to Ashley and the team at Academy Funerals for looking after dad when he passed away. I found the options of funeral homes daunting, but Ashley and Academy Funerals came highly recommended from family friends who actually work within the industry. Ashley was patient, warm and helpful at every step of the process and has a lovely sense of humour, and guided me to the simplest no fills approach we were looking for with dads cremation. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner: Thank you sincerely for taking the time to write this. We value your trust in us and are so glad we could provide comfort and care when it mattered most. Regards Ashley

Kate Cleary

I found Ashley to be wonderfully helpful and compassionate throughout an extremely emotional time in my life. Ashley answered all of my questions with kindness, and his packages are very reasonable. As an Australian owned company, I would highly recommend Academy Funerals.

Response from the owner: It’s truly heartwarming to read your review. Our team takes great pride in providing care that reflects the love you have for your loved one. – Regards Ashley

Dale Dunn

Very easy and professional company to deal with in a difficult time

Response from the owner: We’re honored by your kind words. It’s a privilege to walk alongside families through life’s most tender moments. – Regards Ashley

Michelle Wilkie

Thank you to Ashley who was like a friend though out the stages of preparing mum for her burial. To know that a family business was looking after mum gave me comfort, and everything went so well, and was much more personal than using a large overseas based company.

Response from the owner: Your review brought a smile to our faces. Thank you for recognising our dedication and compassion — it means everything to us. – Regards Ashley

Mary-Ellen Feldhagen

Ashley Bergh from Academy Funerals is a wonderful person to deal with. He is compassionate and understanding and makes himself avaialbe to talk to at any time, even on weekends! I have now used Academy Funerals twice and will certainly go back to them again. You can always rely on a family business to go the extra mile!

Response from the owner: We truly appreciate your lovely message. It’s our mission to bring calm, dignity, and care to every family we meet. – Regards Ashley

Beverley Lee

Academy Funerals was our choice for my mom's funeral.Ashley and the team where very professional,caring, very approachable, I would recommend them highly.

Response from the owner: Thank you so much for your kind review. We’re touched to know our service met your expectations during such a difficult time. – Regards Ashley

Jazmyn Fogarty

We can’t thank Ashley at Academy Funerals enough for the care taken after the devastating loss of our son. Ashley was kind and understanding and made sure everything done was exactly what we wanted.

Response from the owner: We’re so thankful for your review. Providing a meaningful farewell for each family is at the heart of what we do. Regards Ashley

Jerreka Fogarty

Ashley and his team are so lovely! Ashley is very understanding and compassionate and we are forever grateful for his gentle care of our little loved one during a very sad time. Thank you for everything Ashley and team! ♥️

Response from the owner: Your appreciation means more than you know. Thank you for letting us be part of such an important moment in your family’s story. Regards Ashley

Neralee Jeffrey

It took a phone call… I explained what I wanted to Ashley… it was a very different funeral to any he had previously organised… but nothing was too much trouble and his willingness and professionalism were outstanding… in giving my beloved partner what we wanted. Johns funeral was held at Lakeside International Raceway (they too were amazing) the service ending with a procession of Ferraris behind the hearses doing two laps then John was given the checkered flag one last time… a befitting tribute to my partner. Ashley was truly wonderful and nothing was too much effort his willingness to go outside the square was brilliant and his recommendation of Tasteful Transitions (live streaming/slides) was excellent. Academy funerals I can’t recommend you high enough! (My partner wasn’t Polynesian) but I needed someone who would work with me to give J the best send off ever! And that was done!

Response from the owner: Thank you for the trust that you had in allowing us to be a part of such an amazing farewell that you put together for John. I am sure that he would have been proud crossing the finish line in front of all those Ferrari's at Lakeside Park Kind regardsAshley

Stuart Hadaway

Ashley handled everything with care for my late father, took care of me every step of the way. The process was smooth and Ashley was compassionate and kind and assisted with absolutely everything I needed.Thank you from our family we really appreciated your kindness in a time of sadness and need ❤️

Response from the owner: Thank you so much for your kind words. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience with Academy Funerals.Regards, Ashley

Donna Mahommed

Australian owned was my first prerequisite for the funeral director I wanted to care for my husband. Australian owned, affordable and attention to detail is what Ashley from Academy Funerals gave us for my husband’s final journey. Ashley was extremely caring, no American style sales gimmick or pitch, just genuine kindness which is what I needed most at such an emotional time.When Ashley called me to tell me he had my husband with him I was at first taken aback and then I realised the tenderness of that statement.I cannot recommend Australian owned Academy Funerals and Ashley more highly. Easy 5 stars.

Response from the owner: It was our privilege to assist you during such an important time. Thank you for your kind review and trust in our team.Regards, Ashley

Louise Villaruel

I am eternally grateful to Academy Funerals, specially Ashley who has been with me , assisting towards my wife's passing away, and helping with family and friends under very difficult situations.But such is Life, you'll never know what's around the corner.I was very fortunate, to have found Ashley among lots and lots of funeral services in Brisbane, specifically in the Morton Bay area,some might say, its God's Will.I highly recommend them as its my only way of helping them in this highly competitive business. Being an independent family owned and operated Australian business, against foreign counterparts , you can feel a very genuine care.From the very first phone call, and surely won't be the last, everlasting support is and will always be there!

Response from the owner: We’re so grateful for your thoughtful feedback. Knowing we could help bring comfort means the world to us.Regards, Ashley

Jason stanley

I don’t understand any bad reviews. I used this company for my mother’s funeral and they were absolutely outstanding. Professional sympathetic understanding and great with their time be it the time they took to go through everything with me or all the subsequent calls I made asking questions. They were more than helpful getting me through a tough time and a tough period of time. Prices were outstanding as well. We went midrange cost but they cover cheap to all options someone might want. Magnificent and can’t speak more highly. Thank you Ashley and thank you to all your staff!! 🙏🙏🙏🙏

Response from the owner: Hi Jason Your kind words warm our hearts. Thank you for allowing Academy Funerals to serve your family with care and respect.Regards, Ashley

Ian C

I'm happy to recommend Academy Funerals. Robin was professional with his dealings with me and my siblings. He gave good advice on the process of dealing with the deceased, and offered suggestions on the coffin, flowers and cards. He also tidied up images that we used for cards.

Response from the owner: Hi Ian Your kind words warm our hearts. Thank you for allowing Academy Funerals to serve your family with care and respect.Regards, Ashley

Ivan Chang

Very grateful and glad to have found Ashley and his team. Ashley was able to accommodate to our Buddhist needs (e.g., waiting 8-12 hours before sending his team to pick up the body). The ladies he collaborates with to pick up our loved one’s body also deserve high praise - very respectful and handled with care (after hours).Ashley was able to organise a cremation spot that perfectly suits our need for a simple and small service. Also impressed by how he made our deceased love one’s skin tone looked very natural (no over the top make up).The communication (email, SMS, & phone) and payment process were also easy - very reasonably priced. Academy Funeral is a small family-owned company that highly diverse the support from us locals. I highly recommend their service!

Response from the owner: Hi Ivan We’re so touched by your kind feedback. It was a privilege to assist your family and honor your loved one’s life.Regards, Ashley

Maryanne Harris

This is the third time that Ashley has provided his professional services to our family.A huge thank you for the exceptional level of care and support you showed.Your guidance ,empathy, compassion and professionalism during this difficult time made it easier to bear.We highly recommend Ashley and his family's services at Academy Funerals.

Response from the owner: Hi Maryanne Your appreciation means more than you know. We strive to treat every family as our own — thank you for recognising that.Regards, Ashley

Derek Graham

On the day my father passed suddenly, we were calling around funeral homes. Academy was by far the friendlies and warmest. Was exceptionally helpful every step of the way. Incredibly accommodating and understanding. The viewings before the funeral and the day itself, were exactly how he would have wanted it. Thanks to the people of Academy Funerals, I will always remember this unfortunate time in our lives. Fondly and without any regrets.

Response from the owner: Hi Derek We’re honoured by your generous feedback. It’s our mission to provide comfort, dignity, and understanding to every family we serve.Regards, Ashley

Ebony Penguin

Out of the vast array of funeral director options, I chose Academy Funerals because they are truly family owned and independent, and I dealt directly with Ashley the owner. Ashley made the whole process of memorialising my mother pleasant and easy, at a time that I felt overwhelmed and stretched. I would highly recommend anyone seeking to arrange a memorial to speak with Academy Funerals.

Response from the owner: Hi Ebony Thank you sincerely for your kind review. We take great pride in ensuring every farewell is handled with care and compassion.Regards, Ashley

Suzanne Barnett

Thank you Academy Funerals for the wonderful services you provided for my sister. From collecting her body, saying goodbye to her and arranging her cremation, your service was of the highest calibre. Thank you for your personalised service and sensitivity at this difficult time.You made the whole process so much easier for us. When my time comes, please do my cremation.I have no hesitation in recommending your services to any family requiring your attention.With sincere thanks, Suzanne Barnett.My beautiful sister and myself.

Response from the owner: Hi Suzanne It means so much to hear that we were able to support you during a difficult time. Thank you for your trust and kind words.Regards, Ashley

David Sims

As is always the case with funerals, this was truly our hour of need and with not much experience we really needed guidance. We were so fortunate to have been referred to Robin Drury at Academy Funerals and from the word go, his experience and compassion really got us through. Nothing was too much trouble and Robin helped us so much with his words of wisdom and step by step approach. I can't speak highly enough of Academy funerals and will recommend them every time I'm asked. Thankyou Robin for everything you did for our family.

Response from the owner: Thank you David. I really appreciate your words. Although such a shock and way too soon, the service was lovely and you all did so well in such horrible circumstances, and clearly did him proud. It is an absolute privilege to have helped. Take care - always here if you need anything, Robin

Robert Cooper

We couldn't be more pleased with the assistance we received from Robin and Acadamy Funerals during what is naturally a very difficult time. Robin was very caring in the way he dealt with our late father, and made the whole process very easy for us, seamlessly taking care of all the details and administrative requirements. Nothing was too hard for Robin, and he even went above and beyond to collect the royal naval uniform that dad was to wear from my house.I have zero hesitation in recommending Acadamy Funerals to assist you when you have lost a loved one.

Response from the owner: Thank you so much Rob. A pleasure to have met you and I am so pleased that you were able to make sure your Dad was dressed and proud in his royal naval uniform. Very dignified and honourable. Take care of yourself. All the best, Robin

Kathy Bortolanza

I am incredibly grateful for the exceptional service provided by Ashley Bergh, the managing director of Academy Funerals. From our very first consultation two years ago, Ashley demonstrated a level of compassion and endearment that truly set him apart. He took the time to thoroughly explain the process, listened attentively to our requests, and offered thoughtful suggestions, allowing us to make informed decisions with confidence.When I recently reached out to Ashley with the news of my father's passing, his empathy and compassionate guidance were a source of great comfort. He promptly arranged for my father to be collected from the nursing home and assisted with all aspects of organising the funeral.Ashley demonstrated exceptional support regarding our cultural and specific funeral requests, attentively ensuring everything was managed with the highest respect and care. On the day of the service, Ashley and his assistant, Robin were both welcoming and supportive. The music was played exactly as we had requested, contributing to a service that was smooth, peaceful, and comforting.Academy Funerals is a local business that offers excellent communication and correspondence without being overpriced. I am grateful for their support during such a difficult time and highly recommend their services to anyone in need of compassionate and professional funeral services.

Response from the owner: Thank you for sharing Kathy and thank you for the trust with your father. It means a lot to us and to me personally that we were able to help you through the process. Warm Regards, Ashley.

Peter Dunne

Thank you Academy Funerals for the help with the cremation of our dear family member on 19/2/2025.We received a completely stress free,100% service from you at a very reasonable price.Peter Dunne.

Response from the owner: Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts Peter. It is always a privilege for us to be here to help. Take care, R

Emma Baker

Academy Funerals gave me and my family the most thoughtful, gentle & thorough walk through the challenging process of putting my Dad to rest. The care that went into making sure everything was perfect was outstanding. Robin checked in with us nearly every day, not just on a business level but on an emotional level as well. I can’t rate this business high enough, thankyou guys for making my Dad’s funeral the best send off I could’ve asked for.

Response from the owner: Hi Emma - it was a pleasure to have met you all and an absolute privilege to have walked this part of your journey with you and to have helped you farewell your Dad your way. It was an amazing service, and I am sure he would be proud. Take care of yourselves, Robin

Chloe Rolfe

During such a surreal and difficult time of our Dads sudden passing. We reached out to a few funeral companies. We went with Academy Funerals, they were compassionate, understanding. A family business that took the time to listen and guide us every step of the way. Suggested venues & arranged a viewing at a venue. They were efficient to collect Dad, updating us every step of the process. Took beautiful care of him, for us. Robin went above and beyond with assisting us. We are incredibly grateful for your care, patience, guidance and making such a difficult day such a wonderful celebration that showcased our Father so beautifully. We had friends and family at the wake commenting on how fabulous it was and a few saying how they would like their funeral like that. So personable. Thank you so much Academy Funerals!

Response from the owner: Hi Chloe - thank you for the trust, it means the world. For us, this is a lifetime dedication and it means the world to us to serve and help, albeit such a difficult family time. Your entire family did so well, it was a beautiful service and I am honoured to have been able to help. Take care of yourselves, Robin

Colin Flynn

Great experience. I was able to arrange everything over the phone & Ashley walked me through the process & arranged everything. Everything was done as promised with minimal fuss & stress.

Response from the owner: Thanks Colin. As a family company your feedback is lovely to see and means much to us. Thank you for taking the time. Please take care.

Michael Wallace

Amazing and caring service! I have engaged Academy Funerals to assist with the funerals of both my Parents and each time they have provided a steady hand to guide me through the process, most recently I had to contact them on a public holiday in the evening and they were available and able to provide advice and wonderful customer service, cannot recommend their service more highly.

Response from the owner: Thank you for your ongoing trust in us. It is so very much appreciated as is the feedback that you have given. Please take care and we all wish you peace. All the best.

Katie Pike

Academy Funerals are truly amazing, and I’m so grateful I found them! I was completely lost when planning my grandfather’s funeral, but Ashley was there to guide me every step of the way. He ensured my grandfather received the utmost care and handled everything with such kindness and compassion. Ashley is such a gentle soul, and I highly recommend their services. If I could give more than 5 stars I would in a heartbeat!

Response from the owner: It was a lovely service wasn't it. You all did so well and we are honoured to have helped. Thank you so much for your feedback. Please take care.

J D

Totally dedicated to what they do, respecting the deceased and caring for us left behind. I trusted them to care for my daughter who passed and I would do it again in a heart beat.

Response from the owner: Thank you so much JD - they are lovely words and I'm pleased that we were able to care for your daughter. Please take care of yourself and your family, R

Jennyfer Morel

On behalf of my family and I, we would like to thank Ashley and all of the Academy Funeral staff for their kindness and compassion with recently organising my father's funeral arrangements until his final day. Everything in preparation was perfectly planned and we cannot thank you all enough. I would definitely highly recommend Academy Funerals.

Response from the owner: As a small family company we appreciate your words immensely and we are grateful to you for sharing - thank you and take care.

Julie Tamlin

Academy Funerals - Ashley Bergh provided special and warm attention to our family at a most difficult time. From the moment we made contact which was a Sunday and through a seamless process with great support and customer care to every detail. Our beloved sister was handled with dignity and kindness and after her cremation was completed and she was collected for her journey to New Zealand Ashley provided relevant information to support us. We sincerely appreciate and thank you for being part of our family in our moment of need. Your kindness and service is truly appreciated and we highly recommend Academy/Polynesian Funerals.

Response from the owner: Thank you for sharing. Always an honour for us to serve. Please take care.

Lynda Hutton

Academy Funerals went above & beyond in assisting me compassionately & professionally at a personally emotional & challenging time in facing the loss & cremation of a close family member. I would highly recommend Ashley Berg & his personable small team of very experienced & knowledgeable professionals in assisting anyone from all walks of life needing to fulfil end of life arrangements & procedures. A big sincere & heartfelt thank you to Ashley & The Academy Funerals Team for their assistance & support 💗

Response from the owner: Thank you for your words. An honour for us and an absolute privilege. Take care, R

K Zuidveld

During one of the most difficult times in our lives, Academy Funerals provided exceptional care and support. From the moment we contacted them, they were kind, understanding, and genuinely compassionate. They took the time to listen to our needs and wishes, guiding us through every step with patience and professionalism.They were incredibly attentive, ensuring that all of our requests were honored, and they went above and beyond to make sure that every detail was perfect. Their personal touch and sincere empathy made a challenging time a little easier for us to bear.We are deeply grateful to Ashley and Robin for their outstanding service and would highly recommend them to anyone in need of a funeral home that truly cares about the families they serve.Thank you for being there for us when we needed it most.

Response from the owner: Your words are beautiful - thank you. We are so grateful for you taking the time to share your thoughts and appreciate it. Take care, R

Britt Conidi

I used Academy funerals when my father passed in 2022. Based on this experience I again used Academy funerals for the viewing and service for my brother. Ashley was very efficient, professional and compassionate. The viewing and intimate service was serene and personal, allowing our family and friends to come together to remember my brother. I highly recommend Academy funerals.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the trust you have in us. We care so much for what we do and it is a privilege to do it. Your kind words are very much appreciated, thank you - take care.