ICCFA Educational Foundation Awards 97 Scholarships to 2025 ICCFA University Attendees

STERLING, Va. (June 4, 2025) – The International Cemetery, Cremation, & Funeral Association’s (ICCFA) Educational Foundation proudly announces the award of 97 scholarships, thanks to the generosity of donors who value educational opportunities for deathcare professionals. These scholarships will enable recipients to attend the 2025 ICCFA University at the Emory University Conference Center Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia, from July 18-23. Scholarship recipients, representing ICCFA members from 25 U.S. states and Puerto Rico, as well as Canada, China, Ecuador, El Salvador, and Jamaica, will have the opportunity to learn from deathcare innovators and experts. 

The following ICCFA members will be attending the 2025 ICCFA University on scholarship thanks to the generous contributions of our supporting donors:

1. John Blevins, Williams Funeral Home | Columbia, TN
2. Mark Bodicky, Global Atlantic Financial Group | Batesville, IN
3. Angela Bowling, Woodland Cemetery | Dayton, OH
4. Sharael Bowman, Vine On Angel Wings Crematory LLC | Dayton, OH
5. Anthony Bracy, Bracy Funeral Service Group/Collins Funeral Home | Camden, SC
6. Cassandra Bracy, Bracy Funeral Service Group/Collins Funeral Home | Camden, SC
7. Gydell Brooks, Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Cemetery | Bossier City, LA
8. Virginia “Jenni” Bryant, Smith Funeral & Cremation Service | Maryville, TN
9. James Burton, Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science/Webb Noonan Kidd SCI | Cincinnati, OH
10. Elizabeth Capetillo, Inglewood Park Cemetery | Inglewood, CA
11. Sandra Carlin, Cape Cod Community College | Plymouth, MA
12. Anthony Carpinello, R.I. Catholic Cemeteries Diocese of Providence | Cranston, RI
13. Nancy Chapa, Serenity Fields | Mission, TX
14. Denise Childress, Curlew Hills Memory Gardens | Palm Harbor, FL
15. Lauren Christakos, Arlington Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home | Cincinnati, OH
16. Gordon Chuck, Sam Isaacs & Son Funeral Home | Kingston, Jamaica
17. Carlos Culqui, Inglewood Park Cemetery | Inglewood, CA
18. Michelle D’Aquin, Garden of Memories Funeral Home and Cemetery | Metairie, LA
19. Brittany Davis, Funerals by T.S. Warden | Jacksonville, FL
20. Sarah Dawber | Buchanan Group Inc. | Indianapolis, IN
21. Mac Dempsey, Leaf Cremation | Kennesaw, GA
22. Tyler Dinkins, Leaf Cremation | Columbus, OH
23. Christina Fournier, John A Gentleman & Heritage Family | Omaha, NE
24. Jessica Fulford, Fountainhead Funeral Home – SCI | Palm Bay, FL
25. Lorena Garcia, Inglewood Park Cemetery | Inglewood, CA
26. Tony Gilmer, Ott & Lee Funeral Home/Lakeland Place Memorial Park | Brandon, MS
27. Sandra Goldman, Hebrew Cemetery Association of Greater Charlotte | Charlotte, NC
28. Daniel Gonzalez, Mt. Elliott Cemetery Association | Clinton Twp, MI
29. Jacquelin Grauert, Gethsemane Cemetery | Reading, PA
30. Michael Greene, Chapel of the Chimes Westland | Westland, MI
31. Gwen Gustafson, Forest Hills Cemetery | Boston, MA
32. David Gutierrez, Parques y Jardines de Cuscatlan | San Salvador, El Salvador
33. Larry Hawkins, Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Cemetery | Bossier City, LA
34. Cole Held, West Hills Memorial Park | Yakima, WA
35. Bailee Helton, Mt. Elliott Cemetery Association | Clinton Twp, MI
36. Brookle Hicks, Leaf Cremation | Kennesaw, GA
37. Shane Hinds, Carraige Services | Houston, TX
38. Shantelle Holts Joseph, Tidewater Community College/ Sid Roberts Funeral Home | Nacogdoches, TX
39. Aesha Humphrey, Marcom-Harvey Funeral Care | Kansas City, MO
40. Peter Johnson, Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home | Pittsburgh, PA
41. Benjamin Jones, Vineyard City | Vineyard City, UT
42. Marcus Julian, Mt. Elliott Cemetery Association | Clinton Twp, MI
43. Joelle Kerfoot, Heady-Radcliffe Funeral Home & Cremation Services | LaGrange, KY
44. Dan Kientzel, Service Corporation International / Dignity Memorial | Houston, TX
45. Jonathan Kind, Gethsemane Cemetery | Clinton Twp, MI
46. Ryan Kinder, AS Turner & Sons | Decatur, GA
47. Jun Li, Fu Shou Yuan International Group | Shanghai, China
48. Ashlie Lobeck, City of Hobbs | Hobbs, NM
49. Kevin Lowery, Greenlawn Funeral Homes, Crematory, and Monument Center | Springfield, MO
50. Lou Maldonado, City of Hobbs Parks and Open Space Department | Hobbs, NM
51. Lynn McClain, Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens, Funeral Home & Cremation Center | Nashville, TN
52. Andrew McIntosh, Mission Hills Memorial Chapel, Crematory and Gardens | Dowagiac, MI
53. Alexander Mcintosh, Mission Hills | Niles, MI
54. Marcelo Minatel, Gethsemane Cemetery | Curitiba, Puerto Rico
55. Victoria Monforte, Cherokee Memorial Park and Funeral Home | Lodi, CA
56. Alanna Navin, Restland Funeral Home & Memorial Park | Dallas, TX
57. Craig Nichols, Mountain View Cemetery | Rapid City, SD
58. Jonathan Nixon, R.I. Catholic Cemeteries Diocese of Providence | Cranston, RI
59. Aubrey O’Byrne, Compassionate Planning LLC | Reading, PA
60. Robert O’Gara, R.I. Catholic Cemeteries Diocese of Providence | Cranston, RI
61. Arlette O’Rourke, Sacred Grove | Saint Stephen, SC
62. Tamala Randolph, Last Responder Solutions LLC | Wellford, SC
63. Jennifer Rebollar, Roosevelt Memorial Park Cemetery | Gardena, CA
64. Melinda Redding, Baue Funeral Homes/St. Charles Memorial Gardens | St. Charles, TX
65. Jerri Reed-Taylor, Malcolm X College Mortuary Science Program | Chicago, IL
66. Chanin Ricketts, Garden of Memories Funeral Home & Cemetery & Myrtle Hill Memorial Park | Tampa, FL
67. Joe Romero, North Texas Funeral Homes | Hurst, TX
68. Ton SaeChao, Cherokee Memorial Park and Funeral Home | Lodi, CA
69. George Schramm, Vineyard City | Vineyard, UT
70. Taylor Scott, Leaf Cremation Georgia | Kennesaw, GA
71. Karen Scott, Malcolm X College/Wallace Broadview Funeral Home | Chicago, IL
72. Branden Seid, Resurrection Cemetery | Oklahoma City, OK
73. John Sennhenn Jr., Spring Grove, | Cincinnati, OH
74. Susan Short, Baue Funeral Homes | Saint Charles, MO
75. Ashlyn Smith, Greenlawn Funeral Home | Springfield, MO
76. Kemberly Soria, Gethsemane Cemetery | Reading, PA
77. Kadi Strednak, Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home, Inc. | Pittsburgh, PA
78. Gail Stuart, The McDougald Funeral Home | Anderson, SC
79. Lindsey Stuffle, Cole and Garrett Funeral Home | Goodlettsville, TN
80. Arian Teran, Jardines De Manabí | Portoviejo, Manabi, Ecuador
81. Gabriela Teran, Jardines De Manabí | Durán, Guayas, Ecuador
82. Maria Lourdes Teran, Jardines de Manabí | Portoviejo, Manabí, Ecuador
83. Jamie Thomas, Thomas Consulting | Mooresville, IN
84. Brent Thomas, Thomas Consulting Group/Dead Ringers | Mooresville, IN
85. Veronica Van Hof, Baltimore Humane Society Memorial Park | Reisterstown, MD
86. MyEtta Vance, Eden Terrace Memorials, LLC | Jackson, MS
87. Vercell Vance, Eden Terrace Memorials, LLC | Jackson, MS
88. Heather Vandegejuchte, Roberts of Ocala | Ocala, FL
89. Jared Vincent, R.I. Catholic Cemeteries Diocese of Providence | Cranston, RI
90. Tyler Waud, Cairn Partners | Tualatin, OR
91. Kathi Wells, Global Atlantic Financial Group | Maitland, FL
92. Michael Welsh, Gary Diocesan Cemeteries | Hammond, IN
93. Tim Weston, Greenlawn Funeral Home North | Springfield, MO
94. Sarah Whitaker, webCemeteries | Kutztown, PA
95. Spencer Wilson, Biondan | Toronto, Ontario, Canada
96. Calvin Witcher, Inglewood Park Cemetery | Inglewood, CA
97. Jenna Wolfgang, Williams Funeral Home | Columbia, TN

“Each year, it’s inspiring to witness the passion and potential of those entering and advancing within the deathcare profession,” said Gino Merendino, President of the ICCFA Educational Foundation. “These scholarships are more than financial support — they are an investment in people who are dedicated to compassion, service, and continuous growth. We’re proud to help open doors to education and leadership development through ICCFA University, and we’re deeply grateful to the donors who make it all possible.”

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The ICCFA Educational Foundation, founded in 2005, seeks to make education accessible to future leaders of the deathcare profession. It does this by awarding scholarships to the educational programs of the International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association, as well as advancing initiatives designed to promote the profession and support the individuals who answer the call of service. 

Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association is the only international trade association representing all segments of the cemetery, cremation, funeral, and memorialization profession. The association is comprised of more than 10,000 members in the cemetery, funeral home, and crematory industries, as well as suppliers and related businesses worldwide.

Planning a funeral can be an emotionally difficult task, and one of the challenges is estimating how many people will attend. In the UK, funeral attendance can vary greatly depending on factors such as the age of the deceased, the size of their social circle, and cultural or religious customs. Estimating the number of attendees is important for planning seating arrangements, catering, and transportation. Here are some practical tips to help you estimate the number of attendees for a funeral in the UK.

1. Immediate Family and Close Friends

Start by considering the size of the immediate family and closest friends. In many cases, this group is the easiest to predict. It typically includes:

• Spouse or partner
• Children and grandchildren
• Siblings
• Close friends or lifelong companions

For most funerals in the UK, the immediate family usually makes up 10 to 20 people, depending on the family size. These people will almost always attend and are likely to be deeply involved in the arrangements.

2. Extended Family and Relatives

The number of extended family members attending the funeral can vary based on family ties and geographical location. Think about:

• Cousins, aunts, uncles, and distant relatives
• Relatives who may travel from other parts of the country or even from abroad

In many British families, extended relatives may attend out of respect, even if they weren’t in regular contact with the deceased. If the person had a large family or was well-connected to relatives, you can expect this group to significantly increase numbers, adding anywhere from 10 to 50 people.

3. Friends, Neighbours, and Social Circles

The social circles of the deceased can greatly influence funeral attendance. Some things to consider include:

• Lifelong friends, schoolmates, or colleagues
• Neighbours, especially if the deceased had lived in a particular community for a long time
• Members of any clubs, societies, or organisations they were involved with

If the deceased had an active social life or was involved in local community activities, a larger turnout is likely. For example, a person who was part of a social club, sports team, or religious group might have additional attendees who are part of that community.

4. Work Colleagues

In the UK, it is not uncommon for former or current work colleagues to attend funerals, particularly if the deceased was well-known or worked in a close-knit office or company for many years. Consider:

• Colleagues and managers from their last place of employment
• Former co-workers if the deceased had a long and distinguished career

Depending on the person’s work life, you might expect 5 to 20 work-related attendees, especially if they were well-regarded in their profession or industry.

5. Religious or Cultural Communities

The role of religion or cultural traditions can have a major impact on funeral attendance. In some cultures, larger funerals are the norm, with community members gathering to pay respects, even if they did not personally know the deceased.

For religious or community funerals in the UK, it is common to see:

• Members of the church, mosque, temple, or synagogue
• Local community members who may not be close friends but attend out of tradition or respect

This can add anywhere from 20 to 100 people or more, depending on the community size and cultural practices.

6. Public Figures or Highly Social Individuals

If the deceased was a public figure, or someone with an extensive social or professional network, the turnout can be much larger than anticipated. Public figures such as politicians, business leaders, or celebrities often have funerals that are open to the public or heavily attended by members of the press and local community.

In such cases, it is important to consider:

• Media presence, if applicable
• People from public events or organisations the deceased was associated with

Funerals of well-known individuals can attract hundreds of attendees, so special planning for large venues and crowd management may be required.

7. Seasonal and Situational Considerations

Finally, it’s essential to factor in external conditions that could affect the number of attendees:

• Time of year: Funerals held in the winter may have fewer attendees due to weather-related difficulties, while summer funerals might have higher attendance.
• Location: If the funeral is in a remote location or far from the deceased’s place of residence, attendance could be lower, particularly if travel is involved.
• Pandemic-related restrictions: Although restrictions have eased, some people may still be cautious about attending large gatherings due to health concerns.

Tips for Accurate Estimation

1. Reach out to key individuals: Ask close family members or friends for input on expected attendees from their own social circles.
2. Check RSVPs: If the funeral service includes a reception, catering, or transport, asking for RSVPs or informal confirmations can give you a better idea of the numbers.
3. Plan for a flexible range: It’s a good idea to plan for a range rather than a fixed number. For example, if you expect between 50 and 70 people, ensure the venue and catering can accommodate up to 80 people comfortably.
4. Consider online attendance: Hybrid funerals, which include live-streaming the service, can be an option for those who cannot attend in person. This is becoming more common and can reduce the number of in-person attendees while allowing many more to participate virtually.

Conclusion

Estimating the number of attendees at a funeral in the UK can be a complex task, but by considering the key factors—such as family size, social circles, and community involvement—you can make an informed estimate. Keep in mind that it’s always better to overestimate slightly and ensure the venue, catering, and logistics can handle a few more guests than expected. Ultimately, what matters most is creating a service that honours the life of the deceased and provides comfort to those who attend.

Attending a funeral can be a difficult and emotional experience. As you prepare to pay your respects and offer comfort to friends and family, understanding what to wear is crucial. This guide, provided by one of the Henrietta, NY funeral homes
, will help ensure you choose appropriate attire for such a significant occasion.

Understanding Funeral Attire

When considering what to wear to a funeral, the primary objective is to show respect for the deceased and their family. This means choosing attire that is conservative and understated. Funerals
are not the time for bold fashion statements or attention-grabbing outfits.

Traditional Attire for Men and Women

Traditionally, funeral attire for men and women includes dark, muted colors such as black, navy, or gray. Gentlemen should opt for a suit with a tie, and a white shirt is typically the best choice. Women might consider a modest dress or skirt and blouse combination. Pantsuits are also acceptable, provided they adhere to the conservative and subdued color guidelines.

Details matter, so ensure your outfit is ironed and in good condition. Shoes should be formal and comfortable, as you may be standing or walking more than usual. Avoid flashy accessories and opt for minimal jewelry. Simple is often the most respectful choice.

Considerations for Cultural and Religious Practices

Different cultures and religions may have specific traditions regarding funeral attire. For instance, in some cultures, wearing white is customary for mourning, whereas, in others, it’s essential to cover the head or body appropriately. Researching or asking family members about these traditions shows sensitivity and respect.

For instance, black is often a universal color of mourning in many Western traditions, but some Eastern traditions prefer white. Similarly, certain religious ceremonies may require attendees to wear head coverings or specific types of attire that reflect the customs of that faith. Understanding and adhering to these practices, when attending services held by funeral homes
, can provide additional comfort to grieving families.

Adapting to Seasonal Considerations

The weather and season can also influence your attire choices. For summer or warm climates, lightweight and breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, are optimal. However, we still adhere to the color and formality guidelines. For winter funerals, opt for warm but conservative outerwear like dark overcoats, gloves, and scarves.

In uncertain weather, it might be wise to dress in layers or bring a discreet umbrella. Always aim to dress respectfully, even when adapting to the weather.

Final Touches

The final touches of your funeral attire can also convey respect and thoughtfulness:

• Grooming and Personal Hygiene:
  Ensure you are well-groomed. Hair should be tidy, and any facial hair neatly trimmed. Avoid strong perfumes or colognes as they can be overwhelming in close quarters.
• Simple Accessories:
  Keep accessories to a minimum. Items like a simple watch, a modest pair of earrings, or a delicate necklace are appropriate. For men, it may include classic cufflinks and a tie clip.
• Avoid Casual Items:
  Steer clear of casual clothes such as jeans, t-shirts, athletic wear, sneakers, or flip-flops. Your goal is to present yourself as a source of support and respect for the family in mourning.

Choosing the right attire for a funeral is about demonstrating respect towards the deceased and their family. The advice from one of the Henrietta, NY funeral homes aim to help you navigate these choices with sensitivity and thoughtfulness.

At Rochester Cremation, we understand that details matter when saying goodbye to a loved one. Our team is here to support you through every step, including offering guidance on appropriate funeral etiquette. If you have questions or need further assistance, please call us for more information. Your peace of mind is our priority.

Planning a funeral can be an emotionally difficult task, and one of the challenges is estimating how many people will attend. In the UK, funeral attendance can vary greatly depending on factors such as the age of the deceased, the size of their social circle, and cultural or religious customs. Estimating the number of attendees is important for planning seating arrangements, catering, and transportation. Here are some practical tips to help you estimate the number of attendees for a funeral in the UK.

1. Immediate Family and Close Friends

Start by considering the size of the immediate family and closest friends. In many cases, this group is the easiest to predict. It typically includes:

• Spouse or partner
• Children and grandchildren
• Siblings
• Close friends or lifelong companions

For most funerals in the UK, the immediate family usually makes up 10 to 20 people, depending on the family size. These people will almost always attend and are likely to be deeply involved in the arrangements.

2. Extended Family and Relatives

The number of extended family members attending the funeral can vary based on family ties and geographical location. Think about:

• Cousins, aunts, uncles, and distant relatives
• Relatives who may travel from other parts of the country or even from abroad

In many British families, extended relatives may attend out of respect, even if they weren’t in regular contact with the deceased. If the person had a large family or was well-connected to relatives, you can expect this group to significantly increase numbers, adding anywhere from 10 to 50 people.

3. Friends, Neighbours, and Social Circles

The social circles of the deceased can greatly influence funeral attendance. Some things to consider include:

• Lifelong friends, schoolmates, or colleagues
• Neighbours, especially if the deceased had lived in a particular community for a long time
• Members of any clubs, societies, or organisations they were involved with

If the deceased had an active social life or was involved in local community activities, a larger turnout is likely. For example, a person who was part of a social club, sports team, or religious group might have additional attendees who are part of that community.

4. Work Colleagues

In the UK, it is not uncommon for former or current work colleagues to attend funerals, particularly if the deceased was well-known or worked in a close-knit office or company for many years. Consider:

• Colleagues and managers from their last place of employment
• Former co-workers if the deceased had a long and distinguished career

Depending on the person’s work life, you might expect 5 to 20 work-related attendees, especially if they were well-regarded in their profession or industry.

5. Religious or Cultural Communities

The role of religion or cultural traditions can have a major impact on funeral attendance. In some cultures, larger funerals are the norm, with community members gathering to pay respects, even if they did not personally know the deceased.

For religious or community funerals in the UK, it is common to see:

• Members of the church, mosque, temple, or synagogue
• Local community members who may not be close friends but attend out of tradition or respect

This can add anywhere from 20 to 100 people or more, depending on the community size and cultural practices.

6. Public Figures or Highly Social Individuals

If the deceased was a public figure, or someone with an extensive social or professional network, the turnout can be much larger than anticipated. Public figures such as politicians, business leaders, or celebrities often have funerals that are open to the public or heavily attended by members of the press and local community.

In such cases, it is important to consider:

• Media presence, if applicable
• People from public events or organisations the deceased was associated with

Funerals of well-known individuals can attract hundreds of attendees, so special planning for large venues and crowd management may be required.

7. Seasonal and Situational Considerations

Finally, it’s essential to factor in external conditions that could affect the number of attendees:

• Time of year: Funerals held in the winter may have fewer attendees due to weather-related difficulties, while summer funerals might have higher attendance.
• Location: If the funeral is in a remote location or far from the deceased’s place of residence, attendance could be lower, particularly if travel is involved.
• Pandemic-related restrictions: Although restrictions have eased, some people may still be cautious about attending large gatherings due to health concerns.

Tips for Accurate Estimation

1. Reach out to key individuals: Ask close family members or friends for input on expected attendees from their own social circles.
2. Check RSVPs: If the funeral service includes a reception, catering, or transport, asking for RSVPs or informal confirmations can give you a better idea of the numbers.
3. Plan for a flexible range: It’s a good idea to plan for a range rather than a fixed number. For example, if you expect between 50 and 70 people, ensure the venue and catering can accommodate up to 80 people comfortably.
4. Consider online attendance: Hybrid funerals, which include live-streaming the service, can be an option for those who cannot attend in person. This is becoming more common and can reduce the number of in-person attendees while allowing many more to participate virtually.

Conclusion

Estimating the number of attendees at a funeral in the UK can be a complex task, but by considering the key factors—such as family size, social circles, and community involvement—you can make an informed estimate. Keep in mind that it’s always better to overestimate slightly and ensure the venue, catering, and logistics can handle a few more guests than expected. Ultimately, what matters most is creating a service that honours the life of the deceased and provides comfort to those who attend.