NEWSNOVEMBER 2023 Family Owned and Operated Since 1974 FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY PO BOX 5159, YOUNGSTOWN, OHIO 44514 1-800-321-7479 WWW.NOMISPUBLICATIONS. COM Previously Published as the YB News • Still the Place for Your News! Scan QR for our website 1-888-792-9315 • mymortuarycooler.com Folding Dressing Tables MODEL #FS1-0034 Oversized Hydraulic Embalming Table MODEL #FS1-1001 Ships Fully Assembled AMC N W IN STOCK READY TO SHIP STANDARD $799.00 OVERSIZED $929.00 $3,523 Wilson-Little Funeral Home Celebrates 125 Years Woodland Cemetery Celebrates 175 Years PURCELL,OK— The Wilson-Little Funeral Home, which is celebrating 125 years in business, has an interesting and varied history. Every family that owned the home ran it with respect for the community with a personal touch being of utmost importance. Founded in 1897, B.H. Rackley initially operated his hardware and furniture store on Main Street until he constructed the current location at 127 South Canadian in 1937. This two-story building served multiple purposes, with the lower level serving as a funeral home and the upper floor serving as the family’s living quarters. NotaBy Laurie Esposito Harley By Laurie Esposito Harley DES MOINES, IA— Ganesh Ganpat, Parks and Recreation Supervisor and Cemetery Manager for the city of Des Moines knew little about the funeral home and cemetery industry eight years ago when he was hired. “I was leaving another career and wanted to stay local with no business travel,” he says. His background is in, fund-raising, marketing, higher education and science museums. He has a computer and marketing degree and was working toward his MPA (Masters of Public Administration). That’s when he uncovered the magic of Woodland Cemetery. Woodland has a storied past. It is one of seven cemeteries owned by the city of Des Moines, all of which are Continued on page A2 Continued on page A18 2023 NFDA International Convention & Expo Las Vegas, Nevada • September 10-13 Post-Convention Highlights Begin on Page A22 www.NomisPublications.com @Nomis.Publications Like By Linda Findlay Aftercare See Page A8 For over four decades Linda Findlay has helped funeral directors to continue serving their families once the service is over. Since 2018 she has shared tips and pointers with our readers, surely enhancing the level of care given to the families being served. Thank you Linda for many years of helping our readers go that extra step. Classified Ads Shipping Directory Index of Advertisers
Page A2 november 2023 FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS Section A Published monthly by: Nomis Publications, Inc. PO Box 5159, Youngstown, OH 44514 1-800-321-7479 • fax 1-800-321-9040 www.NomisPublications.com info@NomisPublications.com Subscription: United States $30.00 - Canada/Mexico $60.00 - Outside North America $75.00 Circulation 21,000 per issue. Deadline for Press Releases: 5th of the Previous month. Advertising: Display Ad rates sent upon request. Classified and Shipping Directory rates published in each issue. All advertising must be received by the 5th of the previous month. Due to the vast amount of sources, the publisher is not responsible for the content of any news articles or advertisements. Nor is the publisher responsible for any loss of revenue by failure to insert an advertisement. 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ISSN 1944-1126 Funeral Home & Cemetery News online at www.NomisPublications.com Online Directories US & International Funeral Homes • Supply Companies Cemeteries • Pet Memorialization Companies Trade Associations • Plus Much More... www.NomisPublications.com NOTICE The FUNERAL HOME AND CEMETERY NEWS is sent in two parts. Section A, which includes pages A1-A44 and Section B, which contains the Classified Advertising and consists of pages B1-B20. If you do not receive both sections please call 1-800-321-7479 or email info@nomispublications.com. Like @Nomis.Publications FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS 800-321-7479 ~ www. NomisPublications. com SEND US YOUR NEWS We welcome news of the industry Send us information on your firm today! FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS Need Help Putting Your Press Release Together? 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Obituaries... etc. Columns Aftercare by Linda Findlay...............................................................................A8 Critical Thinking by Jon O’Hara.....................................................................A14 Embalming 101 by Wally Hooker....................................................................A16 HearseHub by Mike Jamar................................................................................B6 Memoires des choix des Jacque by Kate Frediani-Gorman..........................A34 Museum Corner...............................................................................................A36 Musings with Marika by Marika McMeans......................................................A18 Observations by Steven Palmer.....................................................................A12 Powerhouse Marketing With Welton by Welton Hong.....................................A6 Presidential Funeral Trains by Todd Van Beck..............................................A24 Random Musings by Nancy Weil......................................................................A4 Share This With Widowers by Fred Colby......................................................A20 Monthly Features Association News.......................................................................................... A36 Educational News.......................................................................................... A40 Death Notices. ............................................................................................... A42 Suppliers News................................................................................................ B1 Calendar of Events........................................................................................ B2 Shipping Directory........................................................................................ B10 Classified Ads. .............................................................................................. B13 B.H. Rackley The Tolle Family Conner Funeral Home Continued from Front Page Little’s Funeral Home Wilson-Little Funeral Home bly, the basement was excavated with a horse and dredge to accommodate the coal-fired heating system. “Rackley was operating the home in 1897, but the first publication about the funeral home in a newspaper was September 23, 1898, so that’s the beginning date we go with, since there’s publication proof,” says Amy Tolle, current owner and funeral director, along with her husband Michael. In 1956, Mr. Rackley sold the funeral home to Pat Conner, a Purcell School teacher, and his wife Euna. They subsequently rebranded it as Conner Funeral Home. Later on, their daughter, Betty Roberts, and her husband Jim joined the business, resulting in the funeral home being known as Conner-Roberts Funeral Home. Jim’s family had previously owned a funeral home in Blackwell, OK, and after his father’s passing in 1974, they relocated to Blackwell to run the Roberts Funeral Home. In 1974, Bill Sparlin, the son of Purcell car dealer Jody and Bessie Sparlin, purchased the funeral home from the Conner family and renamed it Sparlin Funeral Home. Tragically, Bill Sparlin passed away in a car accident in 1976. The Sparlin family subsequently sold the funeral home in 1977 to Wendell and Betty Little, who gave it the name Little’s Funeral Home. Wendell had been a close friend of Bill Sparlin. Under their ownership, a new chapel was constructed in 1989 and improvements were made to the west side parking area. Eventually, Wendell and Betty retired in Purcell. In 1995, Tim and Gale Wilson acquired the funeral home, renaming it Wilson-Little Funeral Home. In 2003, WilsonLittle Funeral Home expanded its services to Newcastle, OK, by opening a brand-new location. Today, Wilson-Little Funeral Home is embarking on a new chapter, with Michael (Mike) and Amy continuing the legacy of service in Purcell, Newcastle, and the surrounding areas. The Tolle family moved to Purcell in 2006 and actively contributes to the community. Together, they have raised three daughters - Kylie, Madi, and Karlee Grace. The funeral home has changed names with different families, but the Tolle’s have no intention of changing the name. “We don’t see a need to change the name,” says Amy. “Wilson-Little is a good name with a long-lasting legacy.” Mike and Amy both are from Watonga, OK. Their families shared a lifelong friendship and attended the same church. After their marriage, Mike saw an ad in the paper that mentioned looking for a couple to live on the premises. He went to the interview and found out it was at a funeral home looking for Mike as an apprentice and Amy for office work. “At that point, he changed his major to be a funeral director,” says Amy. Mike pursued his education at the University of Central Oklahoma, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Mortuary Science. He had an apprenticeship under the guidance of Troy Lee and gained experience working at Vondel Smith & Sons Mortuary in Oklahoma City. Amy, on the other hand, attended Southwestern Oklahoma State University, where she obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. She later achieved a Master’s Degree in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma. Afterward, they relocated to Altus, where Mike worked at Kincannon Funeral Home, and Amy served as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) at Jackson County Memorial Hospital. In 2006, their journey led them to Purcell, bringing them closer to their family roots. Mike devoted nearly 15 years of his career to working alongside Tim and Gale Wilson, while Amy pursued private therapy practice and served as a counselor for both Wayne and Purcell Schools. With over 23 years of experience, Mike holds licenses as a funeral director and professional embalmer. Amy boasts credentials as a licensed insurance agent, licensed funeral director, and even serves as a professor at the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service. “We purchased Wilson-Little in January of 2020 and navigating a pandemic in our first year of ownership taught us so much,” says Amy. Outside their professional roles, Michael and Amy cherish a simple, small-town country lifestyle. They share a passion for playing the guitar, enjoying worship music, relaxing on the beach, and most importantly, spending quality time with their daughters. “Our motto is family-owned, generationally trusted,” Amy says. She adds that a lot of funeral homes are now being run like corporations. “People in our area appreciate the personal touch we provide,” she says. They know the families they serve. They go to church with them. Their children graduated school together. They’ve known these families for years. Continued on page A4
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Page A4 november 2023 FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS Section A By Nancy Weil I wrote this poem many years ago for a newsletter and every November I pull it back out, re-read it and realize that the sentiments contained within it remain as valid today as the day I first wrote it. Gratitude is a powerful emotion. It can change your brain health, shape your mood and produce positive results. Gratitude can be found in a beautiful sunset or in the majestic look of trees as they display their fall foliage before they drop off for the winter. The taste of a good meal, especially when shared with friends. A vacation, Random Musings Serving as Member Resources Director at the International Order of the Golden Rule, Nancy Weil brings her years of experience working in the funeral industry to funeral directors across the globe. Her professional experience includes serving as Director of Grief Support and Community Outreach at Veterans Funeral Care in Clearwater, FL and at eleven cemeteries in Western New York. Nancy travels throughout the country offering presentations on how to reduce stress, combat compassion fatigue and offer support for those who are grieving through her company, The Laugh Academy. With certifications as a Grief Services Provider and Grief Management Specialist, Funeral Celebrant, Soul Injury Ambassador and Laughter Leader, Nancy is uniquely qualified to bring new perspectives into how to best meet the needs of the families you serve. For more information on how Nancy can help you and your company grow, visit her website: www.TheLaughAcademy.com or email Nancy@ TheLaughAcademy.com. FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS www.NomisPublications.com Monthly Columnsonline at effort, but within the pain also lies moments of things to be grateful for. I have found that the practice of gratitude changes everything. By noticing things to be grateful for, things to be grateful for show up all day in all ways. Some people even keep a gratitude journal and list things that they are grateful for from that day. It doesn’t take much to be grateful except to pay attention and acknowledge those moments when they show up. So, in this month that has a day marked just for giving thanks, let us instead practice this attitude of gratitude each and every day. Thanks Living a new adventure, watching an enjoyable show on tv or getting a new gadget, gizmo or thingamajig. Perhaps you are looking forward to gathering family together once again for Thanksgiving and spend the day together. Working with people who have lost a loved one has shown me that even in the darkest of times there are still reasons to be grateful. It could be the support of family and friends. A phone call or note from someone reaching out to check on them. Some are grateful for the years they spent with the person they love. It may take some This month there is a special day That we call Thanksgiving. I propose we celebrate instead, A holiday called “Thanks Living.” Each day we find a reason To give thanks to God above. For every special moment, The people and things we love. It will change your life completely If you adopt this attitude. For everything looks better Seen through eyes of gratitude. So celebrate the special times And joys life sends you way. But remember that Thanks Living Comes each and every day. The author, David John Cook, is a licensed funeral director and embalmer with over 30 years experience. “An educational experience for ALL!” ~ Take the Journey Today ~ “I was hooked from the start! What a heart warming, tear jerking, insightful, vulnerable book!” - Kindle Customer * Amazon • Barnes & Noble • & MORE www.davidjohncookauthor.com When someone calls, they get one of the staff members. “We don’t have an answering service,” says Amy. “We answer our own phones 24/7. They can even call our cell phones.” And while it’s difficult to have holidays, weekends, and even sleep interrupted, Amy says it’s worth it. “We have those relationships and value them.” Another factor to their success is that they have amazing employees that have been there for years. “They have a servant’s heart,” says Amy. “And that is huge. They’re all fantastic.” During 2020, Mike was the only funeral director and embalmer that they had. Since that time, Amy became a funeral director, and their middle daughter Madisyn has also gotten licensed as a funeral director/embalmer. They also have a young man, Matthew, that is dual licensed and an intricate part of the team. Charlotte is the office manager, and she is invaluable. “Our employees are our family,” says Amy. “Our community is our legacy.” For more information, visit WilsonLittle.com. Wilson-Little Funeral Home Continued from Page A2 “For me, there could be no professional opportunity greater than leveraging all my years of finance and business experience to play a role in helping to create systems as well as processes to enable the growth opportunity, not to mention working alongside a highperforming team that has been built for growth.” “We are fortunate to have built an organization that can attract top industry talent like Shannon so early in our company’s life cycle,” stated Andrews. “We are so proud to have her on the Anthem team helping us continue to build a world-class organization.” Anthem Partners is a privately-owned operator of cemeteries and funeral homes. Founded by a group of industry professionals and backed by long-term, patient investors, Anthem Partners is actively seeking opportunities to grow with like-minded professionals and firms who share their vision. To learn more, call 972-418-2908 or visit www.anthempartners.com. Anthem Partners Strengthens Executive Team Shannon Bischoff FRISCO,TX— Anthem Partners, a premier operator of funeral homes and cemeteries, is pleased to announce that Shannon Bischoff has joined the organization. Bischoff will be executive vice president of finance and a member of their executive leadership team. “Our company’s continued financial strength is essential to Anthem’s ability to deliver on our purpose and to create long-term value for all our stakeholders,” said Will Andrews, president of Anthem Partners - US. “Shannon brings with her deep financial experience, a track record of achievement, and true operational insights into funeral service. For these reasons, she is the perfect leader to take the helm of our finance organization and deliver a comprehensive strategic financial vision that will help drive Anthem’s future growth and success.” Bischoff has more than 25 years of finance and operational expertise in funeral service. She began her career at Keystone Group Holdings. Following the sale of Keystone, she transitioned into the role of director of accounting and support for Foundation Partners Group. Most recently, she was the vice president of operations at Pinnacle Funeral Service. Bischoff also is a founding member of the Death Care Collective, a group dedicated to fostering connections, strengthening relationships, and empowering women in the death care profession. At Anthem, Bischoff will be a key thought partner to the company’s executive leadership team while overseeing every aspect of the company’s financial management. “Anthem is a company that is unparalleled in its ambition to be the company where legacy lives,” said Bischoff. Save on Shipping! DIGITAL DIRECTORY Available Download instantly at www.NomisPublications.com
Page A5 november 2023 FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS Section A Discover the Perfect Solution for I.D. Viewings and Private Farewells. Intuitively designed for witness and I.D. viewings and private farewells, the Chaise Bed Viewer along with a single use insert, provides families an economical option for final goodbyes. Copyright© 2023 Starmark. All rights reserved. Specific portions of Starmark products are covered by one or more U.S. patents. Additional patents pending. To learn more visit starmarkcp.com/patents. Contact us and Learn more today! Hinged Foot End The J-Channel Interior Rollerbed System Touch-Up Kits Chaise Bed Viewer® Select Adjustable Crepe Overlapping Shroud Interior Available in 24” and 27” Interior Widths (888) 366-7335 sales@starmarkcp.com starmarkcp.com Cherry Mahogany Additional colors and finishes available. Pair with: Soften the look of feet beneath the shroud Foot Cover Rosetan or White Crepe Interior Includes Lid Chaise Bed Viewer Insert With Without Scan to watch an instructional video.
Page A6 november 2023 FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS Section A www.vischerfuneralsupplies.com The Hallmark of Life & Death www.thebenevolenceurn.com $97.95plus tax 919-638-9177 “In His Care” US Patent No: USD714.0145 China Patent No: Z102012300305438.2 European Com. No: 00208.59 “FAMILY SHIELD delivers exceptional care to the families we serve. Their payment plans give the family the time they need when they need it most.” Jimmy Altmeyer President, Altmeyer Funeral Homes & Crematory FAMILYSHIELDCREDIT.COM BROOKFIELD,WI— Happiness psychologist and mental wellbeing expert Katarina Blom is joining forces with the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) to bring the transformative Swedish practice of death cleaning to more Americans. As part of the association’s new Preserving Your Legacy, One Piece at a Time campaign, Blom, co-host of Peacock’s hit show “The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning” is sharing guidance on how to help a loved one evaluate their personal possessions to decide what to keep, sell or give away – all while processing the memories behind meaningful items to help their legacy live on for generations. “For many, especially older individuals, it’s challenging to clean and declutter their own space because they’ve formed emotional attachments to physical items,” said Blom. “Death cleaning provides an opportunity to spend time with your aging loved ones to better understand the meaning and memories that make a personal possession important. Together, you can preserve their legacy while they are alive so you can keep them close when they are gone.” Together with NFDA’s consumer resource Remembering A Life, Blom is encouraging families to schedule time this October – Family History Month – to “memorialize in place” with their aging loved ones by decluttering and organizing possessions to simplify their current environment or formally prepare for the end of life. Blom offers up expert-approved ways to help an aging loved one organize personal items throughout their home to not only declutter, but also capture the stories behind their most treasured possessions, including: Where Do We Begin? Collect ten items in a box that carry emotional value to them. Once that is done you can sit down, have a traditional Swedish Fika break with coffee and a cinnamon bun and start going through those ten items. The Family Legacy: What was it that parents or grandparents wanted to give to the next generation through these items – a sense of security, beauty or craftsmanship? Now that it is your loved one’s turn to pass them on, what are the hopes that these heirlooms will give to the next generation? Walk around and write notes on the history of each item, what it stands for and why it is being given to the next generation. Attach each note to each heirloom. The Dilemma Box: Take a box, write “Dilemma Box” on National Funeral Directors Association and Happiness Psychologist Katarina Blom Encourage Families to Preserve Their Legacy in a New Way Katrina Blom it, and put in the items that you are unsure about, as well as a date – preferably one month ahead of today. Wait for the month to pass and check in with yourself: can you remember what you put in the box? If not, it is probably okay to get rid of it. “I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact that sorting belongings and letting go of things that no longer serve a purpose has on families – it helps them understand what was truly valuable to them and in turn they feel more alive and more connected to family and friends,” added Blom. “Understanding the significance of our loved one’s possessions and incorporating them into their funeral or memorial service makes the service more meaningful. And, when the service is over, those objects can provide comfort and healing through times of grief and help create a legacy of their own.” As the trusted leader and worldwide resource for the funeral service profession, NFDA lists Remembering A Life among their top resources providing helpful information about planning a meaningful service, as well as resources to help people understand their own and others’ grief and loss. Blom encourages consumers to connect with a local NFDA-member funeral director in their community using the Remembering A Life Find A Funeral Home search tool. Families and individuals can also learn more about end-oflife planning and honoring a loved one in meaningful ways by visiting RememberingALife.com and following @rememberingalife on Instagram. Katarina Blom has been a psychologist for more than 10 years, focusing on the psychology of happiness and relationships. This year she is the host of Peacock’s new hit-show “The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning,” where she facilitates conversations on topics such as death, grief, love and letting go between family members and friends who are facing death in different ways. Remembering A Life is a consumer education initiative of the National Funeral Directors Association. By Welton Hong I’m used to digging into granular areas when talking about digital marketing for funeral homes, which I hope is understandable—that’s what I do all day, every day! But I recognize that it’s also beneficial to take a biggerpicture approach every once in a while. Let’s take a few minutes this month to keep in mind some of the most important considerations when marketing your deathcare firm. In an increasingly digital age, where people turn to search engines, social media, and online reviews before making decisions, funeral homes are no exception to the need for a robust digital presence. Traditional modes of advertisement and word of mouth are being supplemented by online channels, providing a more immediate and personalized connection with potential clients. During times of grief, families want accessible, transparent, and compassionate service providers. A strong digital marketing strategy not only helps funeral homes reach a larger audience but also lets them provide valuable information and support during a difficult time. 1. Optimize Your Website for Mobile and SEO Given the rise in mobile device usage, ensuring that your website is mobile-friendly is imperative. It should load quickly, have a responsive design, and provide all essential information at the user’s fingertips. Along with mobile optimization, you should invest in search engine optimization (SEO). By utilizing relevant keywords and producing high-quality content, funeral homes can increase their visibility on search engines, making it easier for potential clients to find them during crucial times. As usual, Google is your main target here. It retains the most market share in the United States by an enormous margin, so start there. 2. Leverage Your Google Business Profile and Reviews Google Business Profile (GBP) lets businesses list their services on Google Maps and search results. Ensure that your funeral home’s GBP profile is complete with accurate contact information, operating hours, and high-quality photos. Additionally, you must encourage satisfied families to leave positive reviews on Google. This not only boosts local SEO but also builds trust with potential clientele. 3. Engage on Social Media While it may seem unconventional, many funeral homes have found value in maintaining an active presence on platforms like Facebook. Sharing informative content, memorial services, and community involvement can humanize your brand. Moreover, social media provides a platform for families to share memories and testimonials, and to engage in a more personalized manner. Take advantage of this opportunity to brand your firm as the elite, “go-to” funeral home in your area. It really makes a huge difference, especially when your competitors are lagging behind on social. 4. Invest in Paid Online Advertising and Remarketing Consider investing in pay-per-click (PPC) advertising on platforms such as Google Ads. This lets funeral homes to target specific demographics or keywords, ensuring that Five Funeral Marketing Basics to Remember Powerhouse Marketing with Welton their services appear in relevant searches. Remarketing campaigns can also remind those who’ve visited your site to take action, providing a more tailored ad experience. Remarketing provides potential clientele a “second chance” to choose you after their initial research. 5. Offer Virtual Tours and Online Arrangement Tools Given the current global landscape and the evolving nature of service demands, offering virtual tours of your facilities or online preplanning tools can differentiate your funeral home from competitors. It provides an added layer of convenience and safety for families who may prefer or need to make arrangements remotely. By adopting these digital marketing strategies, funeral homes can foster connections, build trust, and cater to the evolving needs of their community in the digital age. Welton Hong is the founder of Ring Ring Marketing® and a leading expert in creating case generation from online to the phone line. He is the author of Making Your Phone Ring with Internet Marketing for Funeral Homes. For more information, visit www.FuneralHomeProfits.com. FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS www.NomisPublications.com Monthly Columnsonline at SEND US YOUR NEWS! PO Box 5159 Youngstown, Oh 44514 1-800-321-7479 info@nomispublications.com
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Page A8 november 2023 FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS Section A 1-888-792-9315 • mymortuarycooler.com Scan QR for our website Cots not included MODEL # TR3 Triple Cot Roll-In Mortuary Cooler AMC N W FAST SHIPPING AVAILABLE ON SELECT PRODUCTS Sacred Custom Statues Affordable • Custom • Lifesized Marble only $9,750 Bronze $16,750 For the Patron Saint you’ve been searching for Contact: Gregory Cave │ caveco33@aol.com 516-456-3663 │ www.statuemaker.us By Linda Findlay Aftercare face was beautiful, her one tiny perfect hand was placed on her chest on top of the silk christening outfit we had bought for her. She looked like an angel. She had a full round tiny face, beautiful perfect tiny nose and full pink lips. Her dark hair perfectly combed, and her silk hat carefully placed. Our funeral director prepared her beautifully so we could invite family to calling hours and a viewing. My sweet baby only had her mother and father view her. Buy the advice from my father… his exact words were, “You can’t put people through that!” He didn’t know any better. But I obeyed! Nobody saw our sweet baby but us. I can remember, as though it were yesterday, walking into that viewing room. She was the most beautiful tiny baby I had ever seen. Tears and emotions burst out of me. With the help of my funeral director and my husband, I approached the tiny casket and knelt before her. I could see her, I could touch her. I could smell her and kiss on her. I had not seen her after she was born. It was my only moments in time that I would ever have with her again. Whether my life was to be long or short, being in that room with my baby was sacred! My funeral director made that time and space for me and my husband to see her and touch her. We loved on her and stared at her for the first and last time. Every part of me remembers that day as though it were today. I was beyond grateful. I was beyond blessed. I was and still am beyond thankful. As I am writing this, I am on a beautiful cruise ship docked at the beautiful island of St Amelia. I am overlooking the beautiful ocean and experiencing Gods great creations. Who is on this ship is a group of people who have joined us on a grief cruise. I created the grief cruise in 2015. As our funeral director had created that time and space for us to honor and love on our daughter, I have created a space and time for grieving famines to come together and do the same. For thirty-two years my journey and my path has been and will continue to be for the rest of my life, one of service to others who have lost a loved one to death. Your life, my beloved funeral directors, has been dedicated to serving families in a time in their lives when there is no other person, except a funeral director, who takes our loved ones into their care! Not only do you take our loved ones in your care. You take all of us who grieve their loss into your care. Your life work is a true testament of how God puts those people in our paths to care for us and walk with us during a time that we can’t walk alone. It has been and will continue to be my greatest blessing to work with grieving families. I am honored to work with and know the most caring compassionate human beings on the face of this earth- my beloved funeral directors! My funeral director came to the hospital and cared for our Each human being who is conceived lives for a predetermined time as planned by our creator. That is my belief. The fact is that human life ends at some point after it begins. Every single human life is connected to another human being, beginning with a mother. No matter how long or short a life is sustained, a human bond has formed. When that life ends, loss has occurred, and another human being is affected. We are human with a brain and body that feels! We are created that way. Losing a loved one is a certainty for each and every one of us at some point in our lives. Dying is a guarantee for all of us. When a loved one dies, a bond is broken. What is left is grief. Grief is a universal experience. Every single person on this earth experiences grief. Why then, does society not know how to support our fellow mankind? During the span of over 30 years, I have been a witness to the pain of loss. The conversations I have with grieving families today, are the same exact conversations I had over 32 years ago. People are hurting, nobody understands, nobody cares, life goes on, expectations of the bereaved to be over their loss are too great. People grieve for a much longer time than anyone would imagine. We never forget our loved ones or the love we have for them, none of us. That is a fact! I started working with grieving families in 1990. One year after I lost my newborn baby. After my loss, I felt alone, afraid, confused, deeply and excruciatingly sad. I felt lost with no hope or desire to live. There was a period of time that I simply wanted to close my eyes and die. It was at the very beginning of my grief journey that I had my first personal experience with a funeral director. He was called to take care of my newborn baby. He promised me she would be in good hands. All I knew was I gave my 100 percent trust to a complete stranger, the task of caring for my baby! Despite my grief I was beyond grateful that she was taken care of. When we were told we needed to call a funeral home, my high jacked grief brain with a body that had just undergone major abdominal surgery and begun releasing all the hormones of a post pregnancy mother, in emotional and physical pain, did not understand why we needed to call a funeral home. That is called shock and disbelief. Once that call was made our funeral director knew what to do. He took our baby into his care until I was physically able to get to her. I will be forever thankful for the positive and caring experience I had with our funeral director. He cared for our baby. He dressed her so beautifully and wrapped her in the crocheted blanket that I had begun to create for her. Her Linda Findlay is the founder of Mourning Discoveries, Grief Support Services. She is a 29-year career Aftercare Coordinator, a published author, and an advocate for bereaved families. She is the founder and co-creator of The Grief Cruises. Linda can be reached at 315-725-6132 or Lf6643@yahoo.com. Visit www.mourningdiscoveries.com, www.thegriefcruises.com or www.internationalgriefinstitute.com. FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS www.NomisPublications.com Monthly Columnsonline at baby up to the time that she was laid to rest over my grandmother’s grave in a beautiful cemetery, high on a hill, overlooking a beautiful city! My life’s work and my daughter’s legacy began that sunny humid day in September of 1989. Spanning four decades, I have had the honor and privilege of supporting well over 200,000 families through my 300 funeral homes in 25 states and counting. It is because of you that all these families received continued care through the aftercare programs you have allowed me to provide. I am honored and grateful beyond measure. I know what grieving families need and I will continue walking on my path! But as all things come to an end, I will no longer be writing for Nomis Publications. I can’t count the years that I have showed up here monthly. It has been many. I thank Nomis Publications and especially Peggy who has given me the space to share my life work in my role as an aftercare coordinator. I hope what I have shared has been helpful and useful to you. I am not going anywhere but to continue my work. Please know that you are all very special people! Just like myself you have helped countless families and you have made a difference. In closing, I wanted to share with you that I am going to send this article to the funeral director who took care of our daughter and myself so many years ago. I feel it’s a fitting ending to writing for Nomis Publications. I will always to be available, for as long as I walk this earth, to any funeral director. Thank you for reading my articles and thank you for all you do in your life work. –Linda Findlay Aubrie Marie Findlay’s grave stone in a cemetery in Utica, NY. My grandsons’ foot print is on the headstone. It’s the first time we brought him to the cemetery and the first time I realized Aubrie is an Aunt. It was bitter sweet. Rollings Funeral Service Announces Bob Page as New Chief Operating Officer PEACHTREE CITY,GA— Rollings Funeral Service has recently announced that Bob Page will be joining the company in the newly created role of chief operating officer. In this new position, Page will be overseeing all operations of the company in addition to acting as an extra layer of support to all our regional managers and their individual locations. “Over the last 20 years, I have worn many hats: CEO, CFO, COO, and president to name a few. As our company has grown though, I’ve realized that increasing our leadership team to divide up these roles is needed to ensure our continued strength and service levels,” said president and CEO Greg Rollings. “Bob has tremendous operating and funeral experience, having held senior leadership positions at SCI, Northstar, StoneMor and Foundation Partners and I look forward to the value, support, and efficiency he’ll bring to our company,” Rollings continued. Page brings with him decades of experience in funeral service and operations management. Before joining Rollings Funeral Service in September, Page spent the last four years with StoneMor Partners, most recently serving as their senior vice president, operations and support. Prior to his time with StoneMor Partners, Page served as a vice president with Foundation Partners Group. “Having watched Rollings Funeral Service grow over the last two decades, it’s exciting to join a company that’s so wellrespected in our industry. I view my role as a facilitator and enabler and I plan to build on the hard work of Greg and Debbie,” said Page. He also mentioned that it’s his goal to help develop systems, processes, and procedures that will give each location in Rollings Funeral Service more time to better serve their families. With over 80 locations, Rollings Funeral Service is one of the largest private funeral homeowners in the eastern United States. With each of their firms operated on the local level, their managers work directly with Rollings Funeral Service to establish budgets, pricing, and best practices. They also pride themselves on being a great alternative to selling to a publicly traded company and they continue to search for firms that will be a great fit for their growing family funeral of funeral homes. Bob Page Carriage Services Confirms Continuation of Review of Strategic Alternatives HOUSTON,TX— Carriage Services, Inc. (NYSE: CSV) confirmed that, as noted in its press release issued on June 29th, Carriage’s Board of Directors continues its process to review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value. The company does not intend to comment further unless and until there is an actionable matter that requires announcement. Carriage Services is a leading provider of funeral and cemetery services and merchandise in the United States. Carriage operates 171 funeral homes in 26 states and 32 cemeteries in 11 states. For more information, visit www.carriageservices.com.
Page A9 november 2023 FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS Section A From Mortuary Mysteries to Culinary Capers: Frigid Discovers the Joys of Cooking A Whimsical Tale of Embalmers Turning Kitchen Mavericks Think You Don’t Have Hard Water? You Might Want to Think Again? Frigid Fluid Unveils Innovative “Cosmetic Kit” Just in Time for the Holiday Season Frigid Fluid Co. Celebrates 200 Embalming Machines Shipped President Brian Yeazel Reflects on Success and Innovation in the Industry Frigid Fluid, a leading name in the funeral and mortuary industry, is proud to announce the upcoming release of its thoughtful “Cosmetic Kit” scheduled to launch at the beginning of December. This extraordinary kit promises to be the ideal holiday gift for embalmers and professionals in the field, offering a meticulously curated collection of cosmetics and instruments inspired by Amanda King’s insight for comprehensive color theories. The Cosmetic Kit by Frigid Fluid and Amanda King includes a range of carefully selected products and instruments, all designed to accentuate the natural features and accurate color hues, tones and complexions of decedents. This thoughtfully curated collection is poised to change the game for embalmers and funeral professionals, ensuring that their work is a true reflection of the deceased’s authentic appearance. Key components of the Frigid Fluid Cosmetic Kit include: a mortuary color theory palette, brushes and applicators, setting sprays and sealers, and a comprehensive instructional guide developed by Amanda King. The instructional guide will provide embalmers with invaluable insights into Mortuary Color Theory and its practical application. This Cosmetic Kit is set to empower embalmers with the tools they need to honor the memory of the deceased by accurately restoring their natural appearance. It combines the expertise of Amanda King BY BRIAN YEAZEL The Frigid team enjoying some quality time at Sur La Table in Las Vegas, after a successful NFDA convention. NORTHLAKE, IL — It’s with immense excitement that I share this milestone with you – Frigid Fluid Company has recently reached a significant achievement, shipping our 200th embalming machine. As the President and Owner of Frigid Fluid Company, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on our journey, the groundbreaking innovation behind our embalming machines, and our commitment to the industry we serve. Over the past year, my team and I have had the privilege of demonstrating our state-of-theart embalming machine at events around the world. These events provided us with the opportunity to connect with a diverse audience, and if you were one of those who stopped by our booth, I extend my heartfelt thanks. Your support and engagement mean the world to us. To those who attended, I encourage you to share your experiences, thoughts, and questions with your colleagues. Reflecting on this journey, I understand that investing time and resources in a product within a niche industry may appear unconventional to some. Yet, I saw a unique opportunity to create a machine that goes beyond convention and sets new standards in the world of embalming. Let’s delve into the core design principles that have shaped our innovative embalming machine. First and foremost, it was imperative that our machine could handle the entire spectrum of chemicals used in the embalming process, a concept we proudly call “no limits embalming.” Countless hours of materials research and testing yielded components capable of withstanding the challenges posed by phenols and high-index cavity fluids. This breakthrough allows embalmers to seamlessly perform both arterial and hypodermic injections, saving valuable time and effort during embalming procedures. One of the standout features of our machine is its ability to provide embalmers with invaluable insights and data. The presence of clear and realtime numeric flow, pressure, and temperature readings enhances visibility into the embalming process. Imagine a scenario where an arterial constriction or blockage occurs. With our machine, embalmers can witness the flow rate plummet from 30 to 10 to zero ounces per minute in real time, enabling immediate and informed decision-making. This real-time feedback, combined with a laboratorygrade borosilicate glass tank and top-down mixing system, ensures that the embalming solution maintains the precise color and composition required for optimal results. To make the machine not only efficient but also user-friendly and enjoyable to operate, we’ve incorporated several thoughtful features. These include a silent close lid, a magnetic filter, an easy snap hose holder, large knobs designed for ease of use even with gloves, and the option for custom colors, allowing for personalization and a touch of individuality. In closing, I want to express my sincere gratitude for your time and attention. It’s my hope that this article sheds light on our journey, our commitment to innovation, and our dedication to helping embalmers “Embalm Better.” Our 200th embalming machine represents not just a milestone but a symbol of the unwavering dedication we have to our industry, where innovation continues to drive progress. For further information about Frigid Fluid Company and our embalming machines, please visit www.frigidfluid.com. LAS VEGAS — Amid the neon lights and bustling streets, a delightful twist emerges. The Frigid Fluid team of Embalming Specialists, often surrounded by the quietude of their profession, has embarked on a culinary journey that is turning heads and tickling taste buds. From the intricate mysteries of mortuary science to the flavorful marvels of the kitchen, these embalmers are proving that life’s flavors can be as intriguing as death’s secrets. For embalmers, life is typically filled with the solemn rituals of preparing the departed for their final journey. But in the heart of Las Vegas, a recent culinary endeavor has taken them into a world that’s anything but conventional. With aprons in place of PPE and spatulas replacing embalming instruments, these embalmers have found an unexpected passion in the art of cooking, embracing the city’s vibrant culinary scene. These culinary adventures have revealed hidden talents among the embalmers. A steady hand once used for delicate procedures is now deftly wielding a chef’s knife. The precision that defined their embalming work has seamlessly transitioned into the kitchen, where meticulous attention to detail in plating and presentation reigns supreme. In the end, these embalmers turned chefs remind us that life is filled with unexpected joys waiting to be savored. As they continue their culinary escapades, they prove that the transition from embalming room to kitchen can be as seamless as it is delightful. In a world where death often takes center stage, these embalmers have found solace and celebration in the simple act of cooking, a reminder of life’s beautiful contrasts. So, the next time you wander the streets of Las Vegas and meet a Frigid Fluid embalming specialist, don’t be surprised if they tell you about their latest culinary creation. They may just surprise you with a dish that’s as extraordinary as their profession is unique. CHICAGO — Water is an essential resource that sustains life and supports various activities in both households and businesses such as funeral homes. However, not all water is created equal. Some water sources contain high concentrations of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium ions, leading to what is commonly known as hard water. It is important to recognize that calcium is responsible for the clotting reaction of blood and can create clots. Metals ions in general can become lodged in cell walls and block capillaries as well, reducing your solutions ability to diffuse properly. Identifying hard water in your funeral home is crucial for addressing the challenges it presents for embalmers. Evidence for hardwater includes white deposits on faucets, shower heads and other surfaces, soap scum buildup in sinks, decreased water pressures, fabric stains and a lack of foamy soap. While hard water is not harmful to human health, its impact on plumbing systems and appliances can be problematic. The buildup of mineral deposits can clog pipes, reduce water flow, and decrease the efficiency of water heaters and other appliances. This can also be true in your embalming machine, where a hard water situation can be created. If you are an embalmer who prefers to or is required to leave standing water in your machine, the evaporation of the water will leave any particulates behind. If you are not regularly flushing your machine and cleaning the filter, the likelihood of metals buildup in your machine increases. This can be remedied by regularly flushing your machine with Water Clot Guard that is designed specifically to isolate and cage calcium to prevent the clotting reaction and the lodging of metallic particles in the tissue. The Frigid Machine remedies this issue by having easily removeable filters and a “clean: function which addresses all of the hydraulic system instead of just flushing the hose and pump. Frigid Fluid offers several options to combat the challenges of hard water during embalming, . Water softeners are popular devices that use ion exchange to replace calcium and magnesium ions with sodium or potassium ions, reducing water hardness. Additionally, filtration systems, reverse osmosis, and chelation methods can be used to mitigate the effects of hard water. All of these will help at the funeral home level. During your embalming, you can add to your solution Water Clot Guard to treat the hardness of your funeral home water and Plasma Flo to combat any clots that may be created or are already existing. In conclusion, understanding the sources of hard water and recognizing its presence in your home or business is essential not only for maintaining your plumbing systems’ health and ensuring the efficient operation of appliances such as your embalming machine, but also to achieving the best embalming possible. By identifying the culprits behind water hardness, you can implement appropriate measures to soften the water during your embalming process and service your families the best way possible. with Frigid Fluid’s legacy of excellence to create a must-have resource for professionals in the industry. “As a champion of achieving an elevated norm for decedent appearances that better reflect the visual values of our modern time, I’m excited to collaborate with Frigid Fluid on this leadingedge project,” said Amanda King. “Our goal is to elevate the standards of embalming by providing embalmers with the tools they need to achieve precise color matching and a natural, lifelike appearance for the deceased so that their loved ones may have a peaceful final view and opportunity to say goodbye.” Frigid Fluid’s new Cosmetic Kit is scheduled for release at the beginning of December, just in time for the holiday season. It’s the perfect gift for embalmers who are passionate about their work and dedicated to providing the best possible service to grieving families. For more information about the Frigid Fluid Cosmetic Kit and its release date, please visit www.frigidfluid.com or contact Frigid by phone at 1-708-8361215. Amanda King Embalming Specialist Frigid Water-Clot Guard a must have in every preproom! By FRIGID FLUID By BEN SCHMIDT
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