Meet Jonny Yaxley: Gravedigger of the Year

The Heart Behind the Work: Meet Jonny Yaxley, Gravedigger of the Year at Henley Woodland Burial Ground

At Henley Woodland Burial Ground, every grave is dug with care, compassion, and respect, and for more than a decade, that responsibility has belonged to Jonny Yaxley. With over 20 years of experience and a deep connection to the woodland, Jonny’s work is far more than a job; it’s a calling. Named Britain’s Gravedigger of the Year at the Good Funeral Awards in both 2014 and 2025, Jonny is known for his dedication to doing every burial “properly, with dignity and love.” In this blog, he shares his story, his journey, and what makes Henley Woodland Burial Ground such a special place to him.

“I have been digging graves for more than 20 years, and every single one is done with love, care, and respect. It is the last thing anyone has done for them, and I believe it should always be done properly — with dignity and compassion.

My work has taken me to many cemeteries and burial grounds including Henley Woodland Burial Ground, Henley Fairmile, Wallingford, Kidmore End, Waddesdon, Kennington, Aylesbury, Wargrave, Long Crendon, and several private burials on family land. But Henley Woodland Burial Ground is where my heart truly lies. I have been working here for nearly 15 years and have built a deep and lasting connection to this beautiful place.

Over that time, I have met so many families whose loved ones I have had the honour of laying to rest — many of whom have since become friends. It’s a privilege to do this work, and I treat every grave as if it were for someone I loved myself.

In 2014, I was honoured to be named Britain’s Gravedigger of the Year at the Good Funeral Awards. Winning it again in 2025 was an incredible experience and something I’ll always cherish.

I never set out to become a gravedigger. I began my career in grounds maintenance, and through a series of changes and chances, I found myself in this role. What I didn’t expect was how deeply it would resonate with me. This isn’t just a job anymore — it’s part of who I am. It feels like what I was meant to do.

It’s a humbling experience to be able to help and support people at one of the lowest points in their lives. Sometimes I meet families beforehand and show them around the woodland; other times I work quietly behind the scenes, preparing the grave before and tending to it afterwards. Whether I’m seen or unseen, I always give everything to ensure it’s done right.

Henley Woodland Burial Ground is a place of peace and reflection, but also a place of life. The trees we plant each year, the deer, foxes, badgers, hares, and skylarks that live here — all remind us that life continues and renews. It’s a living, breathing landscape that helps people find balance between grief and acceptance.

When we lose someone close, it can feel as though grief takes over completely. But I’ve come to believe that, over time, we learn to live alongside it. The woodland helps people with that process — offering a space of beauty, stillness, and understanding.

Through my years here, I’ve found my own peace too. When my time comes, I’ll be buried here among those I’ve laid to rest and become part of the woodland we’ve created together. My wonderful mum will also rest here one day, and I’ll have the honour of burying her myself — something that fills me with both pride and love.

This work, this place, and the people I meet mean everything to me. To help others, to care for this landscape, and to play a small part in the cycle of life is a true privilege — one I’ll never take for granted.”