Our Board

Robyn O'Connell
Robyn lunch 2024

Chair

As the founder and Rebecca Jane's mother, Robyn brings diverse experience as a director for both a community credit union and a not-for-profit organisation to the Foundation. With a background of a funeral celebrant, her company, Last Farewell, generously donates 10% of its income to RJF.

In her free time, Robyn enjoys musical theatre and producing her reels and podcasts under the Lady of Death and presenting enrichment lectures on cruise ships.

David Nugent
David N small

Director

David's proficiency in technology, particularly as a senior software engineer/architect, is invaluable to the Foundation. He oversees our online presence, ensuring its functionality and reach. His extensive backend knowledge is vital for our digital strategy. David's commitment extends beyond technology, as he actively supports his wife Robyn in her mission. When he steps away from the screen, David enjoys going on cruises.

Ashley Bretherton
Ashley small

Director

Ashley brings exceptional organisational and strategic prowess to the Foundation. With a strong background in finance, she currently excels as a team leader overseeing national maintenance contracts. Ashley played a pivotal role in transforming Robyn's initial concept for the Foundation into the thriving organisation we are today. To relax Ashley knits, crochets, tapestries and quilting, resulting in some fabulous creations.

David Schneider
David S

Director

David brings to the Foundation a unique blend of expertise. A respected celebrant in Melbourne, he possesses a strong understanding of marketing and branding. His background in the finance sector, provides valuable strategic insights. David's primary focus is ensuring our message resonates effectively with our target audience. When he's not busy marrying people, David enjoys travelling and developing his culinary skills.

Terry Clifton
Terry

Consultant

Despite stepping down from the board due to business commitments, Terry remains a vital resource as a consultant, offering deep insights into the funeral industry.

His understanding of the industry's complexities is crucial to our work.

Beyond consultancy, Terry's direct support of our families has been profoundly impactful, with his personal touch often inspiring generous contributions.

In his spare time he is actively engaged in Freemasonry as well as enjoying fishing and camping.

Jess Toop
Jess

Consultant

Jess, initially an Observership Program participant, was invited to join our board, a testament to her valuable contributions. Balancing her ownership of a workplace law company, a young child, and an impending merger presented significant time constraints, so she reluctantly resigned.

Now a Partner at Justitia Lawyers & Consultants (in industrial law), Jess still remains a dedicated supporter and has arranged any workplace requirements to be done probono from Justitia if it is needed. In her personal time, she is a passionate linguist and enjoys traveling.

Kiria McNamara

Observer

Kiria joins us for the calendar year 2026 as our observer from the Observership Program. You can read more about it here.

Kiria is Director of People & Culture at Swisse Wellness, where she has led the organisation to five consecutive years on Australia’s Best Places to Work list.

Kiria’s connection to community includes fundraising for numerous charities.

She has recently begun advocacy to reduce the painful silence around baby loss. A proud mum to Hugo and in memory of her daughter Billie, she is passionate about community and social change.

Events