Our People

Chelsea Brown Dip. FD
Manager & Funeral Director

Chelsea knew at 15 that funeral directing was for her. A documentary about embalming sparked her interest in the wider role of funeral directors, and seven years later she entered the industry. Nearly 12 years on, she still feels privileged to do the work she dreamed of as a teenager. Her career has taken her from Auckland to Christchurch and Marlborough, supporting families through some of life’s hardest moments.

As manager of the Sowmans team, Chelsea helps families create farewells that feel personal, meaningful and true to the person they’re remembering. Warm, practical and down-to-earth, she believes there’s no single “right” way to say goodbye, whether it’s quiet and traditional or includes a favourite song, a good story and a few laughs.

Originally from Auckland, Chelsea swapped the big-city hustle for Marlborough life with her partner, Tim, their two children and Bobby the dog, who remains convinced the move was for his benefit.

Outside work, she’s usually gardening, tackling a DIY project, exploring Marlborough or planning her next big idea. Sitting still is not her strength, despite Tim’s encouragement.

Tim Brown Dip. EMB
Lead Embalmer

With nearly 20 years’ experience as an embalmer, Tim brings an incredible depth of knowledge and skill to his role as Lead Embalmer at Sowmans. He has worked across New Zealand and has particular expertise in restoration and complex embalming care. His career has also seen him teach embalming, develop innovative embalming procedures, and served as part of New Zealand’s disaster response team, caring for some of those who died following the Whakaari/White Island eruption.

Despite the impressive résumé, Tim is happiest quietly working behind the scenes. He takes enormous pride in his work and believes every person in his care deserves the same dignity, respect and attention to detail he would want for someone in his own family.

Tim now calls Marlborough home with his partner Chelsea and their daughter. Outside of work, he has a keen interest in history and philosophy, a very quick wit, and a talent for keeping the team entertained. He’s also a key player in the Sowmans staff quiz team.

Bob Barnes
Funeral Director

Hi, I’m Bob Barnes—husband to Libby, although Jess-the-Cat is undoubtedly the one in charge of our home!

We have four adult children spread across New Zealand, from Auckland to Christchurch, along with two grandsons, three granddaughters and three grand-dogs. I’m immensely proud of them all, and they certainly know how to spoil me.

After serving as a vicar in Anglican parishes for 35 years, I joined the Sowmans team in early 2019. I feel incredibly fortunate to work as a Funeral Director, supporting families and helping them honour their loved ones in a meaningful way.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with Libby, pottering in our garden, helping at St Christopher’s Church, and getting out on either my mountain bike or road bike—whichever one takes my fancy that day!

Angelina Davies
Funeral Director / Embalmer

Originally from Northland, Angie first moved to Marlborough in 2003 and is a proud mother of four. Before finding her calling in the funeral profession, she worked across a variety of industries, including hospitality, customer service, telecommunications, and small business, gaining a diverse range of skills and experience.

As a Funeral Director and Embalmer, Angie is known for her compassion, attention to detail, and calm, caring nature. She takes great pride in helping families navigate one of life’s most difficult times and is highly regarded for her skill as an embalmer, treating every person entrusted to her care with the utmost dignity and respect.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, travelling and has a creative side, with a passion for art, design, and anything crafty.

Mark Ham
Funeral Director

Mark is a sixth-generation Marlburian with a deep connection to the local community. He is married and the proud father of four grown children, who, along with his wife dwell at the centre of his life. Outside of work, Mark is actively involved in church and community and enjoys sharing his talents in music and the performing arts.

Before joining the funeral profession, Mark worked in radio, real estate, print media, and a variety of other industries, building strong communication skills and a genuine appreciation for people from all walks of life. Although new to the funeral industry, Mark is a natural in the role. His kindness, compassion, and attention to detail, combined with his passion for helping others and creating meaningful human connections, ensure every family feels cared for and supported during their difficult time.

Georgia Brydon
Office Administrator

Born in the North Island and moved to Marlborough at a young age, Georgia enjoys supporting the local community. As the youngest member of the team, she brings warmth, positivity, and a caring nature to every family she meets. As our Administrator, Georgia is often the first friendly face to welcome families through our doors, and her kind, bubbly personality and exceptional organisational skills help put people at ease from the very beginning. Georgia has a genuine passion for caring for others and goes above and beyond to ensure families feel comfortable and supported.

Outside of work, Georgia enjoys staying active and she is a qualified Reformer Pilates Instructor, she also loves getting lost in a good book. You’ll often find her with her friends heading out for a drive with her favourite music playing, going for walks while listening to an audiobook, or spending time at the beach watching the sunrise or sunset. Georgia values her time with her partner and never says no to a cheeky cocktail with her girlfriends.

Alistair Sowman
Consultant

Alistair was born in Blenheim and spent the majority of his life in the district. He worked with his parents Geoffrey and Rita Sowman at Geoffrey T Sowman Ltd. Alistair served as Mayor of Marlborough from 2004–2016.