Funeral Service Foundation Invests $90,000 in Future Funeral Service Professionals

Recipients represent 15 U.S. states, three Canadian provinces, and 18 funeral service programs.

Brookfield, Wisconsin – Thanks to the generosity of its donors, the Funeral Service Foundation awarded 31 academic scholarships this fall totaling $90,000 to students across North America. Recipients hail from 15 U.S. states and three Canadian provinces and attend 18 funeral service programs, showcasing the wide reach of the Foundation’s commitment to supporting future professionals.

“Our scholarship program is an investment in the future of funeral service,” said Jeff Smith, Chair of the Funeral Service Foundation. “These students represent the next generation of leaders who will serve families with compassion and professionalism. We are proud to support their education and help them succeed in this meaningful career.”

Since awarding its first academic scholarship in 2002, the Foundation has expanded its program to include multiple named scholarships that honor and memorialize influential funeral service professionals and organizations.

This fall’s awards included the inaugural Tom Johnson Scholarship, honoring the legacy of Tom Johnson, a respected leader and advocate in the funeral service profession. Johnson was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service Award in 2024, and donations from across the profession helped memorialize him through this scholarship.  

In total, the Foundation awarded 31 scholarships, which included 20 named scholarships, nine Foundation ’45 scholarships honoring the founding year of the Funeral Service Foundation, and two scholarships awarded to military veterans through the Journey to Serve initiative, in partnership with the ICCFA Educational Foundation.

The Foundation’s academic scholarship program runs in two annual cycles – spring and fall. The next application window is February 15 – April 1.

Academic Scholarship Fall Class of 2025:

Foundation ’45 Scholarship | $5,000

• Katy Bernard, Lubbock, Texas (Southern Illinois University – Mortuary Science and Funeral Service)
• Tess Martin, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada (Canadian College of Funeral Service)

Foundation ’45 Scholarship | $5,000

• Lilly Meade, Englewood, Colorado (Arapahoe Community College – Mortuary Science Program)
• Amber Revelt, Parma, Ohio (Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science) 
• Jenifer Williams, Hoschton, Georgia (Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service)

APFSP/Fitzgerald Memorial Scholarship | $2,500

• Mallory Brown, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science)

Bob Horn Scholarship | $2,500

• Jasmine Yang, St. Louis, Missouri (St. Louis Community College at Forest Park – Funeral Service Education)

CANA/Jack Springer Memorial Scholarship | $2,500

• Samia Craft, Castle Rock, Colorado (Arapahoe Community College – Mortuary Science Program) 

Foundation ’45 Scholarship | $2,500

• Amy Burr, Grovetown, Georgia (Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science)
• Rane Halloran, Frederick, Maryland (Community College of Baltimore County-Catonsville – Mortuary Science Program)
• Thiago Nielsen, Millcreek, Utah (Salt Lake Community College – Mortuary Science Program)
• Riley Roldan, Loveland, Ohio (Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science)

Funeral Directors Life Memorial Scholarship | $2,500

• Jody Bryant, Statesboro, Georgia (Ogeechee Technical College – Funeral Service Education)

John Carmon Scholarship | $2,500

• Robin Warren, Danville, Virginia (Brightpoint Community College – Funeral Services Program)

Joseph E. Hagan Memorial Scholarship | $2,500

• Lauren Kreuser, Mayville, Wisconsin (Milwaukee Area Technical College-West Campus – Funeral Service Program)

Louis & Josephine Pontone Memorial Scholarship | $2,500

• Melissa Varghese, Macomb Township, Michigan (Wayne State University – Mortuary Science Program)

Memorial Classic Scholarship | $2,500

• Sydney Dietz, Morris, Minnesota (University of Minnesota – Program of Mortuary Science)
• Charae Kiplin, Loganville, Georgia (Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service)
• Wayne Latimer Jr., Tulsa, Oklahoma (Dallas Institute of Funeral Service)
• Ansley Williams, Lincoln, Nebraska (Des Moines Area Community College – Mortuary Science Program)

NGL – Harry Pontone Memorial Scholarship | $2,500

• Karen Coles, Gainesville, Florida (Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service)
• Jena Thompson, Herrin, Illinois (Southern Illinois University – Mortuary Science and Funeral Service)

NGL – Mark Hornibrook Memorial Scholarship | $2,500

• Arianna Roland, Springfield, Ohio (Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science)
• Nicolette Roether, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada (Canadian College of Funeral Service)

Shipley Rose Buckner Memorial Scholarship | $2,500

• Azuree McGee, Nashville, Ohio (Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service)

Steve Lang Scholarship (Homesteaders) | $2,500.00

• Lindsey Vatter, New Castle, Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science)

Steve Mack Memorial Scholarship | $2,500.00

• Charell Valentine, Munhall, Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science)

Todd Van Beck Memorial Scholarship | $2,500.00

• Carly Moran, Portage La Prairie, Manitoba, Canada (Canadian College of Funeral Service)

Tom Johnson Memorial Scholarship | $2,500

• Wesley Manning, Leesville, Louisiana (Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service)

Academic Scholarship for Veterans:

The Funeral Service Foundation, in partnership with the ICCFA Educational Foundation, offers academic scholarships to United States and Canadian military veterans, as part of the Journey to Serve initiative. Offered twice a year, scholarships range from $2,500-$5,000 and are available to military veterans who are 18 years of age or older at the time of application and who are currently enrolled (or accepted into) in an ABFSE-accredited funeral service program. Learn more about the Journey to Serve at www.JourneyToServe.com.

Journey to Serve Scholarship | $5,000

• Monica Weisfeld, Mount Prospect, Illinois (Worsham College of Mortuary Science)

Hunter M. Harbeson Memorial Scholarship | $2,500

• Mark Biolo, Lakeville, Minnesota (Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science) 

In Their Words:
In their own words, scholarship recipients express what this support means to them as they prepare to serve their communities through funeral service.

“I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for selecting me as a recipient of the 2025 Fall Military Academic Scholarship. As a veteran Navy Officer pursuing a vocation in mortuary science, this scholarship is much more than financial assistance – it is an affirmation of my commitment to continue to serve others in a new and most important way.”

• Mark Biolo, Hunter M. Harbeson Memorial Scholar

“Your investment in my education enhances my capacity to enter the field prepared, self-assured and determined to provide compassionate care.”

• Samia Craft, CANA/Jack Springer Scholar

“I am truly grateful for the sense of community within funeral service and for generous people like yourselves who continue to encourage and uplift the next generation of funeral professionals.”

• Sydney Dietz, Memorial Classic Scholar

“I am in my second year of apprenticeship in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, where my love of funeral service has blossomed. Over my last year of study, I have been eager to learn, listen and be a part of this ever-growing professional community. I am proud to be a student of the Canadian College of Funeral Service, where I have been able to hone many necessary skills for both my funeral directing and embalming licenses.

Through my work in funeral service, I have had the honor of caring for the bereaved and their loved ones, learning how to best assist and meet the needs of different families. Receiving this scholarship will allow me to continue pursuing a career I am passionate about, and this investment in my education and future goals will not be forgotten.”

• Tess Martin, Foundation ’45 Scholar

“Being rewarded with this scholarship demonstrates that I am achieving my goals, manifesting the life that I have always dreamed of, and following a career path that I was always meant to follow. The scholarship money also allows me to focus more on being a funeral director apprentice, a student a partner and a mom to my wonderful daughter.”

• Amber Revelt, Foundation ’45 Scholar

“Thank you so much for this extraordinary gift to help me pursue my calling as a funeral director and embalmer. When I embarked on this journey, I knew it would be challenging – funeral service is my second career and meant starting over in many ways. But every day I spend working with families affirms for me – with absolute certainty – this is where I’m supposed to be.”

• Jasmine Yang, Bob Horn Scholar

FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS OR FUNDED NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS OR OPENING SOON:

LINKS

ABOUT THE FUNERAL SERVICE FOUNDATION – FuneralServiceFoundation.org
Since 1945, the Funeral Service Foundation has served as the philanthropic voice of the funeral profession and has identified as the charitable arm of the National Funeral Directors Association since 1997. Donors and volunteer leaders profession-wide support the Foundation in its mission of lifting up grieving communities by investing in people and programs that strengthen funeral service.

Funeral Service Foundation Receives $217,500 from Service Corporation International (SCI) in 2025

Contributions from SCI will advance programs that strengthen funeral service and support grieving communities

Brookfield, Wis. – The Funeral Service Foundation is proud to announce that longtime supporter Service Corporation International (SCI) has generously contributed $217,500 to the Foundation in 2025, bringing their cumulative giving to more than $2.6 million and solidifying SCI’s position as the Foundation’s top corporate donor. This support enables the Foundation to continue its mission of lifting up grieving communities by investing in people and programs that strengthen funeral service.

At the Opening Session of the NFDA Convention, attended by more than 1,400 funeral service professionals, SCI’s contributions were recognized by Will Bischoff, Foundation Fund Development Chair, who introduced John Faulk, SCI’s Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Foundation Trustee and Treasurer, to the stage.

Faulk shared SCI’s commitment, “As a Trustee, I can attest to the positive impact that the Funeral Service Foundation has on our profession. Whether you serve one community or hundreds, we all have a shared purpose — to help families when they need us the most. As a company, we value partnerships and organizations that collaborate across our profession to strengthen it, and that’s why we support the Funeral Service Foundation.”

On behalf of the Foundation, Chair Jeff Smith said, “We are deeply grateful to John Faulk and the leadership team at SCI for their steadfast commitment. Their support enables the Foundation to continue building strong partnerships across the profession, investing in programs and people that make a real difference for grieving families. As our top corporate donor, SCI’s generosity allows us to maximize our impact across funeral service.”

SCI’s 2025 contributions, including support for the 2025 Golf Classic, directly fuel programs and initiatives that enhance education, research, and professional development in funeral service, ensuring every investment creates meaningful impact.

About Service Corporation International (SCI) – https://www.sci-corp.com/ 

Service Corporation International (NYSE: SCI), headquartered in Houston, Texas, is North America’s leading provider of funeral, cemetery and cremation services, as well as final-arrangement planning in advance, serving more than 600,000 families each year.  Our diversified portfolio of brands provides families and individuals a full range of choices to meet their needs, from simple cremations to full life celebrations and personalized remembrances.  Our Dignity Memorial® brand is the name families turn to for professionalism, compassion, and attention to detail that is second to none.  At September 30, 2025, we owned and operated 1,487 funeral service locations and 499 cemeteries (of which 312 are combination locations) in 44 states, eight Canadian provinces, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.  For more information about Service Corporation International, please visit our website at www.sci-corp.com.  For more information about Dignity Memorial®, please visit www.dignitymemorial.com.

About the Funeral Service Foundation – FuneralServiceFoundation.org
Since 1945, the Funeral Service Foundation has served as the philanthropic voice of the funeral profession and has identified as the charitable arm of the National Funeral Directors Association since 1997. Donors and volunteer leaders profession-wide support the Foundation in its mission to lift up grieving communities by investing in people and programs that strengthen funeral service. 

Ray Frew, CCFE, Named Recipient of the 2026 ICCFA Educational Foundation Lasting Impact Award

Sterling, VA — November 12, 2025 — The International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) proudly announces that Ray Frew, CCFE, has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 ICCFA Educational Foundation Lasting Impact Award. This distinguished honor will be presented during the President’s Banquet at the 2026 ICCFA Experience on April 29, 2026, in Fort Worth, Texas.

Frew, the immediate past President and CEO of Green Hills Memorial Park and a past President of the ICCFA, has long been recognized as a visionary leader in the cemetery and funeral service profession. As a founder and early champion of the ICCFA Educational Foundation, he played a pivotal role in shaping its mission and ensuring that professionals across the industry have access to educational opportunities that enhance service, leadership, and compassion.

A Certified Cemetery and Funeral Executive (CCFE) and Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Frew’s career reflects integrity, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.

“Ray’s vision and passion for education have shaped the very foundation of our profession,” said Gino Merendino, President of the ICCFA Educational Foundation. “He understood early on that by investing in education, we elevate not only individual professionals but the entire deathcare community. The opportunities he helped create continue to lift others up and ensure our profession grows stronger, more compassionate, and more capable every day.”

Beyond his professional contributions, Frew has devoted decades to community service in Torrance, California, where his leadership and generosity have left a lasting legacy. A Vietnam veteran, he has served on numerous civic and charitable boards, including the Red Cross Celebrity Golf Tournament, Torrance Symphony, and the Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation. He is a past president of both the Del Amo Rotary Club and the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce and has chaired major fundraising initiatives for the Torrance-South Bay YMCA and the Little Company of Mary Community Health Foundation, together raising tens of millions of dollars for community development and healthcare.

Among his many civic achievements, Frew’s leadership with the Torrance-South Bay YMCA stands out as one of his most meaningful contributions. As Chair of the Building for Tomorrow Capital Development Program, he helped lead the organization’s most ambitious fundraising effort, which exceeded $4.6 million to build a state-of-the-art facility serving families across the South Bay. Through this role, Frew also played a pivotal part in forging a lasting partnership between the YMCA and the University of Southern California, creating programs to support military veterans and their families—a cause deeply personal to him as a proud Army and Vietnam veteran.

Through his work at Green Hills Memorial Park, Frew has also led one of California’s largest Memorial Day Observances for more than three decades, honoring veterans and first responders. His leadership and dedication have earned him numerous accolades, including the J. Walker Owens Outstanding Volunteer Award, the George Whittlesey Award for Business Advocacy, and the Service Above Self Award from the Torrance-South Bay YMCA. In 2005, Frew was further recognized with the Torrance Distinguished Citizen Award, presented to individuals whose achievements are “significant to the community and to the welfare of the general populace.” He has also received the Community Partnership Award from the Switzer Center, an organization serving at-risk youth, and is a Founding Board Member of both S.C.O.R.E. (Spinal Cord Organization for Regaining Excellence) and the South Bay Children’s Orchestra.

Reflecting on his lifetime of service, Frew shared, “Acts of service have always given me a deep sense of purpose and gratitude. I’ve been fortunate to work alongside so many incredible people who share a commitment to helping others. When we give our time and energy to lift others up, the rewards reach far beyond ourselves—they strengthen our entire community.”

The ICCFA Educational Foundation Lasting Impact Award honors individuals whose lifetime of service has made a profound and enduring contribution to the advancement of education, leadership, and professionalism in the cemetery, cremation, and funeral service profession. For more information about the ICCFA Educational Foundation and the 2026 ICCFA Experience, please visit www.iccfa.com

The ICCFA Educational Foundation is a 501(c)(3) entity, established to make education accessible to future leaders in the deathcare profession and thereby raise the standards of professionalism within the industry. To learn more about the work of the Foundation and upcoming educational opportunities, please visit iccfa.com/educational-foundation.  

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

In what I would term an “Honorable” press release from Death Care consolidator and operator Foundation Partners Group, the company is using this day to not only honor all American military veterans but to illustrate some of the military veterans who continue to “serve” in the realm of Death Care.

According to the press release, “Foundation Partners employs veterans in locations across the country, many of whom continue their mission of service by helping families navigate some of life’s most difficult moments.”

John D. Smith, CEO of Foundation Partners Group, had this to say in prepared remarks from the press release, “Veterans Day is a perfect time to demonstrate our appreciation for the service and sacrifice made by our team members who are military veterans and to recognize the value they bring to our business.  The dedication, discipline and spirit of service fostered during their years of military service continue guide the work they do every day—providing comfort, care and respect to the families who depend on us. . . . . . We celebrate these veterans and hundreds of others who we are proud to call members of our Foundation Partners family, today and every day.”

Here are profiles of four veterans that Foundation Partners Group highlighted:

Cedricjuan (C.J.) Wilson, U.S. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps veteran C.J. Wilson was born into a family of funeral directors and set his sights on the profession long before joining the military. His 16 years in the Marine Corps included deployments to Africa, Iraq and Australia. His primary role was motor transportation operator, but it was his service as a casualty assistance calls officer that reignited his passion for funeral service. A licensed funeral director and embalmer, Wilson joined Foundation Partners in 2024 and now leads the decedent care center at Anderson-McQueen Funeral Home in St. Petersburg, Florida.

“Veterans Day is a day that I reflect on all those who give the United States a blank check that says, ‘I will defend you at all costs,’” Wilson said. “I continue to carry that military spirit and mindset every day.”

Chris Nickelson, U.S. Army

A U.S. Army aviation officer, Chris held distinguished leadership positions both stateside and in combat, which prepared him well for his current role as vice president in Foundation Partners ‘ Acceleration Office. Over nine years of service, he deployed twice to Afghanistan, once as a platoon leader and once as a company commander. During his last deployment, he assumed his second command as leader of the task force maintenance company where he was responsible for overseeing the maintenance program for all helicopters in Eastern Afghanistan and led the downed aircraft recovery team. In addition, he is a qualified pilot in command and air mission commander on the AH-64E Apache Helicopter and flew numerous combat missions.

“After the military and a short stint in the private sector, I found myself looking for a new job,” Nickelson said. “In my search, I wanted to prioritize service to community. Prior to coming across the Foundation Partners job posting, I never thought of a career in funeral service. After my initial conversations with Foundation Partners, however, I knew this was the perfect place to continue service to the community, albeit in a different capacity than that of an Army officer.“ 

Savannah Googins, U.S. Air Force 

A career with meaning, a steady paycheck and the opportunity to see the world led Savannah Googins to the Air Force, where she served four years and rose to senior airman before being honorably discharged in 2011. She attended college with the help of GI Bill education benefits and later took a sales job at a cemetery. Today she serves as general manager at Edwards Memorial Center Funeral Home and Crematory in Lakewood, Washington.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the military, and being able to guide families through placement at a national cemetery and explain their benefits is always a highlight of my day,” Googins said. “I also take great pride in assisting with active-duty funerals. Picking decedents up from the flight line with their families is always a great honor because I can make sure they get the send-off they deserve for serving our country.”

Scott LePage, U.S. Navy

A naval aviator deployed two times to the Gulf, Scott LePage knows a thing or two about leadership. He served 10 years leading technical and operational teams to achieve high levels of readiness for squadron operations during essential missions. The son of a military veteran and proud father of a current Army combat medic, LePage has led teams across multiple industries and currently serves as Foundation Partners’ chief operating officer.

“In the military, I was surrounded by people who put ‘others before self’ and were willing to focus on what they could do to improve the world around them, despite the personal challenges it might create for them. I find that our team at Foundation Partners shares many of those qualities and I am proud to serve alongside team members as we make a difference for the communities and families we serve,” LePage said. “I appreciate that we recognize our veterans throughout the U.S. in many meaningful ways. I like to keep in mind that, when one member of a family serves, the whole family serves. For our friends and neighbors who are in that situation, it can be simple things like an offer to help, a quick check-in or a small expression of appreciation that gets them through the day. Veterans Day is a wonderful opportunity to take a moment to recognize all who have served and continue to serve.”

More news from Foundation Partners Group —  Here is a couple of recent press releases from Foundation Partners Group

Related — Here is the Journey to Serve website.  Journey to Serve is a unique Death Care campaign to get military veterans to look for careers in Death Care upon discharge.

More news from the world of Death Care:

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“A servant’s attitude guided by Christ leads to a significant life”

Foundation Partners Group Honors Military Heroes on Veterans Day

Team Members Reflect on Continued Service

WINTER PARK, Fla. (November 4, 2025) –This Veterans Day, Foundation Partners Group proudly honors the courage, commitment and sacrifice of the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces — including the many veterans who are part of the Foundation Partners team.

“Veterans Day is a perfect time to demonstrate our appreciation for the service and sacrifice made by our team members who are military veterans and to recognize the value they bring to our business,” said John D. Smith, Foundation Partners CEO. “The dedication, discipline and spirit of service fostered during their years of military service continue guide the work they do every day—providing comfort, care and respect to the families who depend on us.”

Foundation Partners employs veterans in locations across the country, many of whom continue their mission of service by helping families navigate some of life’s most difficult moments. Their leadership, teamwork and commitment to others exemplify the company’s core values and elevate the level of care provided in every community Foundation Partners

Four of those veteran team members shared their thoughts on Veterans Day and how they continue to serve as funeral industry professionals.

Cedricjuan (C.J.) Wilson, U.S. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps veteran C.J. Wilson was born into a family of funeral directors and set his sights on the profession long before joining the military. His 16 years in the Marine Corps included deployments to Africa, Iraq and Australia. His primary role was motor transportation operator, but it was his service as a casualty assistance calls officer that reignited his passion for funeral service. A licensed funeral director and embalmer, Wilson joined Foundation Partners in 2024 and now leads the decedent care center at Anderson-McQueen Funeral Home in St. Petersburg, Florida. 

“Veterans Day is a day that I reflect on all those who give the United States a blank check that says, ‘I will defend you at all costs,’” Wilson said. “I continue to carry that military spirit and mindset every day.”

Chris Nickelson, U.S. Army (pictured above, left)

A U.S. Army aviation officer, Chris held distinguished leadership positions both stateside and in combat, which prepared him well for his current role as vice president in Foundation Partners ‘ Acceleration Office. Over nine years of service, he deployed twice to Afghanistan, once as a platoon leader and once as a company commander. During his last deployment, he assumed his second command as leader of the task force maintenance company where he was responsible for overseeing the maintenance program for all helicopters in Eastern Afghanistan and led the downed aircraft recovery team. In addition, he is a qualified pilot in command and air mission commander on the AH-64E Apache Helicopter and flew numerous combat missions. 

“After the military and a short stint in the private sector, I found myself looking for a new job,” Nickelson said. “In my search, I wanted to prioritize service to community. Prior to coming across the Foundation Partners job posting, I never thought of a career in funeral service. After my initial conversations with Foundation Partners, however, I knew this was the perfect place to continue service to the community, albeit in a different capacity than that of an Army officer.“ 

Savannah Googins, U.S. Air Force 

A career with meaning, a steady paycheck and the opportunity to see the world led Savannah Googins to the Air Force, where she served four years and rose to senior airman before being honorably discharged in 2011. She attended college with the help of GI Bill education benefits and later took a sales job at a cemetery. Today she serves as general manager at Edwards Memorial Center Funeral Home and Crematory in Lakewood, Washington.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the military, and being able to guide families through placement at a national cemetery and explain their benefits is always a highlight of my day,” Googins said. “I also take great pride in assisting with active-duty funerals. Picking decedents up from the flight line with their families is always a great honor because I can make sure they get the send-off they deserve for serving our country.”

Scott LePage, U.S. Navy (pictured above, right)

A naval aviator deployed two times to the Gulf, Scott LePage knows a thing or two about leadership. He served 10 years leading technical and operational teams to achieve high levels of readiness for squadron operations during essential missions. The son of a military veteran and proud father of a current Army combat medic, LePage has led teams across multiple industries and currently serves as Foundation Partners’ chief operating officer.

“In the military, I was surrounded by people who put ‘others before self’ and were willing to focus on what they could do to improve the world around them, despite the personal challenges it might create for them. I find that our team at Foundation Partners shares many of those qualities and I am proud to serve alongside team members as we make a difference for the communities and families we serve,” LePage said. “I appreciate that we recognize our veterans throughout the U.S. in many meaningful ways. I like to keep in mind that, when one member of a family serves, the whole family serves. For our friends and neighbors who are in that situation, it can be simple things like an offer to help, a quick check-in or a small expression of appreciation that gets them through the day. Veterans Day is a wonderful opportunity to take a moment to recognize all who have served and continue to serve.”

Smith added, “We celebrate these veterans and hundreds of others who we are proud to call members of our Foundation Partners family, today and every day.”

About Foundation Partners Group  

Winter Park, Florida-based Foundation Partners Group is one of the industry’s most innovative providers of funeral services and the second-largest funeral home group in the country based on the number of families served. Foundation Partners owns and operates a network of over 250 funeral homes, cremation centers and cemeteries across 21 states. Our deep understanding of technology and customer experience-centered approach allows us to deliver truly innovative and compassionate care to the families we serve. Visit www.foundationpartners.com to learn more.  

The Funeral Service Foundation Announces New Trustees, Raises Record Funds and Honors Scholarship Recipients at 2025 NFDA International Convention & Expo

Chicago, Illinois — The Funeral Service Foundation celebrated a milestone week during the 2025 National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) International Convention & Expo, held in Chicago, Illinois. From welcoming new trustees and raising record-breaking funds to honoring outstanding donors and scholarship recipients, the Foundation’s impact was felt throughout the event.

Foundation Welcomes New Trustees and Elects 2025–26 Executive Committee

The Funeral Service Foundation’s Board of Trustees welcomed two new trustees and elected its 2025-26 executive committee at its meeting during the NFDA Convention.

The Foundation’s volunteer board consists of dedicated funeral directors and allied professionals who serve together to advance the Foundation’s mission of lifting up grieving communities by investing in people and programs that strengthen funeral service.

Michael Soper of Legacy Funeral Group was voted onto the board in July and officially began the first of two three-year terms at the Foundation’s Annual Meeting on October 25, 2025. Ellen Wynn McBrayer, NFDA Secretary, also joined the board at the meeting as the NFDA Liaison.

During the meeting, the board elected its executive committee:

• Jeff Smith, President of Smith Family Funeral Homes in Arkansas, will serve as Board Chair.
• Bryant Hightower, Funeral Director at Hightower Family Funeral Homes in Georgia, will serve as Chair-elect.
• John Faulk, Senior Vice President, COO at Service Corporation International, will serve as Treasurer.
• John Heald, Chief Growth Officer at Legacy.com, will serve as Immediate Past Chair.
• Ellen Wynn McBrayer, of Jones Wynn Funeral Homes & Crematory in Georgia assumes the role of NFDA Liaison.

The Foundation extends sincere thanks to Trustees Emeriti David Falconer and Daniel Ford for their years of dedicated service and leadership and congratulates Ford on his installation as the new NFDA President.

“It is with gratitude and appreciation that I step into the role of Chair,” said Jeff Smith. “I’m honored to follow in the footsteps of those who helped shape this Foundation into what it is today and whose leadership has laid a strong foundation for the work ahead.”

25th Annual Funeral Service Foundation Golf Classic Tees Off at Topgolf Schaumburg

On October 26, 2025, more than 160 golfers and spectators gathered at Topgolf Schaumburg for the 25th annual Funeral Service Foundation Golf Classic. Held alongside the NFDA Convention, the event combines friendly competition, networking, and fun – all while supporting the Foundation’s mission to strengthen funeral service and the communities it serves.

“Events like the Golf Classic remind us how special this profession is,” said Will Bischoff, Chair of the Fund Development Committee. “It’s a chance to connect, celebrate and give back, knowing that every dollar raised supports the Foundation’s work to strengthen funeral service and the communities we serve.”

The event featured Topgolf’s Top Contender game with contests such as closest to the pin and longest drive. Winners included:

• Golf Classic Tournament Champions: 1st Place – LPI; 2nd Place – Matthews Aurora
• Closest to the Pin: Men – Steve Feliciano; Women – Candace Aramburu
• Longest Drive: Men – Jake Appleby; Women – Allie McBrayer

Sponsors played a key role in supporting the event, including:

• Major Co-Benefactors ($12,500): Service Corporation International (SCI) and The Foresight Companies
• Premier Sponsors ($5,000): Batesville, Homesteaders Life Company, Matthews Aurora Funeral Solutions, National Guardian Life Insurance Company, Precoa, Regions Funeral and Cemetery Trust and Ring Ring Marketing

Members of Team Foresight and SCI, the Classic’s Major Co-Benefactors, huddle for their team pictures. 

Foundation Highlights Impact and Celebrates 2025’s Major Donors

On Monday, October 27 at the Opening Session of the NFDA Convention, newly inducted Funeral Service Foundation Board Chair Jeff Smith highlighted the Foundation’s expanding impact through scholarships, professional development opportunities and community resources that strengthen the profession and support grieving families.

Joining Smith on stage, Fund Development Committee Chair Will Bischoff recognized the Foundation’s major donors for 2025 who pledged or contributed $100,000 or more:

• John Faulk of Service Corporation International presented a check for $217,500, bringing SCI’s incredible cumulative support to over $2.6 million dollars. 
• Alfred “A.J.” White presented a check for $100,000 on behalf of Carriage Services.
• Curtis Funk presented a check presented a check for $108,500 on behalf of Tukios.

Each representative expressed their organization’s commitment to advancing funeral service and shared why supporting the Foundation’s mission remains central to their values.

Adding to the moment of celebration, Foundation Trustee David Hernandez presented a check for $460,000 on behalf of the 82 IMPACT 1000 Founding Members and Homesteaders Life Company. IMPACT 1000, launched in April, now includes over 100 individual members who have pledged or donated $5,000, demonstrating the extraordinary dedication of the Foundation’s supporters.

Together, these major donations ensure that those who serve grieving families have the education, resources and support they need to thrive today and for generations to come.

Bob Arrington Honored with Foundation’s 2025 Distinguished Service Award; Record Scholarship Funds Raised

On the evening of October 27, more than 350 of the Foundation’s donors, trustees and volunteers attended the invitation-only Donor Reception, underwritten by Global Atlantic Financial Group for the twelfth consecutive year.

Hosted by Immediate Past Chair John Heald, more than 25 major donors were recognized, including Service Corporation International, Carriage Services, Tukios, and the collective Founding Members of IMPACT 1000. Landmark Funeral Group was also honored for their pledge of $50,000 this past year. Donors contributing $10,000 or more were recognized with ceremonial checks displayed throughout the room.

The 2025 Distinguished Service Award was presented to Bob Arrington for his longstanding leadership and dedication to funeral service. Former Chairs John Heald and Mark Krause playfully donned “Dumb and Dumber” attire while leading the paddle raise in loving tribute to Arrington, honoring his longtime tradition of emceeing the paddle raise with humor and heart.

Guests responded generously, pledging more than $225,000, fully endowing the newly established Bob Arrington Scholarship, which will be awarded to students in accredited mortuary science programs beginning in 2026.

“Watching the room rise in support of the Bob Arrington Scholarship was one of those moments you don’t forget,” said John Heald, Immediate Past Chair of the Funeral Service Foundation. “Bob’s leadership has touched so many of us over the years – his generosity, humor and heart have shaped the Foundation’s spirit. That night was a perfect reflection of his legacy and the difference one person can make.”

Fundraising for this special scholarship continues. To make a donation to the Bob Arrington Scholarship, visit: FuneralServiceFoundation.org/Donate-Now-Bob-Arrington.

Foundation Recognizes 2025 Scholarship Recipients

The Funeral Service Foundation’s investment in funeral service education and professional development was highlighted at the 2025 NFDA All-Star Recognition Ceremony. This year, the Foundation awarded 22 student scholarships covering registration and accommodations to attend the NFDA International Convention & Expo.

Through its academic and professional development scholarships including the David C. Baue NFDA Professional Women’s Conference scholarships, Certified Celebrant Training, Arranger Training, the Embalming & Restorative Arts Seminar, and the national conventions hosted by NFDA, CANA, and NFDMA, the Foundation supports hundreds of individuals each year in advancing their careers and skills in funeral service. 

Foundation Partners Group CEO John D. Smith: “We’re Becoming One United Company”

When John D. Smith stepped into his role as CEO of Foundation Partners Group (FPG) earlier this year, he inherited more than 260 funeral homes, crematories, and cemeteries across the country — and a team that had already weathered years of acquisition-fueled expansion and industry evolution. Six months in, Smith says the company is entering a new phase — one defined not by rapid growth through acquisition, but by unifying, refining, and re-engaging with the communities it serves.

“We’ve been an acquisition-driven holding company,” Smith explained in a recent interview with Connecting Directors during the 2025 National Funeral Directors Association Convention & Expo. “Now, we’re pivoting and becoming a branded, united operating company.”

That shift, Smith emphasized, marks a significant cultural and operational transformation. 

“Before, you’re going out and you’re buying your EBITDA — your profit, your market share,” he said. “Now we’re saying, hey, we’re going to pause on acquisitions and take all this stuff we have and turn it into a real operating company. We’re going to grow our market share and profitability by serving families better than our competitors — with the team we already have.”

Re-engaging the Foundation Partners community

Earlier this year, FPG created its Community Advisory Board, composed of industry and community leaders who bring an outside perspective to the organization’s strategy and direction. The board’s insights, Smith said, are already proving invaluable.

“They gave us feedback on how we’re thinking about our business, how we’re going to grow,” he shared. “They love how we’re getting reconnected in the community, and they’re really excited to help us with that. It’s going well.”

For Smith, who came to the deathcare space after leadership roles in other industries, building those relationships — both inside and outside the organization — is central to FPG’s transformation.

“I’ve learned that the people in this profession are great,” he said. “They love what we do, they love serving families, and they want to win. This company’s been through so much, and we still have a team that’s engaged, connected, and excited about the direction we’re going. We’ve laid out our path forward, how we’re going to grow, and they have a lot of excitement about that.”

“Transformations don’t happen before people do”

Smith’s approach to leadership is grounded in a philosophy he’s carried throughout his career: “Organizations don’t transform in a sustained way before people do.”

“Irrespective of what industry you’re in, it’s all about people,” he explained. “We’ve gotten here because people were doing certain things — not good or bad, just the way things were done. Now, we’re saying, ‘Here’s the outcome we want and here’s why we need to move this way.’”

That “why,” Smith said, is the foundation of change. Once people understand it, they can begin to shift their mindset. 

“If you know the why, then you start asking, ‘How do I change my mindset from what I believed before to now?’” he explained. “When people get there, they realize, ‘I need a different skill set,’ and that’s where training and coaching come in. Then, once they’ve got the mindset and the skill set, we give them the tool set — the systems and processes that make it possible. That’s how you change a company of this size.”

Leading through change

Of course, transformation — especially in a people-centered profession like the deathcare profession — comes with both excitement and uncertainty. Smith acknowledged that reactions among FPG’s funeral home teams have been mixed, but still largely positive.

“It’s two-sided,” he said. “On one hand, they love that we’re focused on them — that we’re investing in our people, our facilities, and our technology to help them do their jobs easier and faster and take care of families. But at the same time, they’re human. They’re saying, ‘Wait a minute, this feels different. You’re going to measure me on that now? Your expectations of me are different?’ You get both sides — and that’s part of growth.”

That growth, Smith said, isn’t just about financial performance; it’s about creating a unified culture built on shared purpose and accountability. 

“I can say one thing, but if it doesn’t show up in the behavior of our leaders, it’s not going to work,” he noted. “So I’ve spent a lot of time helping my leaders get there — making sure they’re showing up differently. It’s working, but we still have a lot of work to do.”

Smith’s long-term vision for Foundation Partners Group centers on sustainability — not just operationally, but culturally. He wants the company to be known for delivering consistently excellent service across its locations while honoring the individuality of each community it serves.

For more information on Foundation Partners Group, reach out to the FPG team at https://foundationpartners.com/contact-us/.

Foundation Partners Group Appoints New Directors to Guide Future Growth

Four new members bring deep expertise in deathcare, transformation & financial services

WINTER PARK, Fla. (October 23, 2025)  Foundation Partners Group, the nation’s second largest provider of funeral services, today announced the appointment of four seasoned executives to its board of directors. The additions, effective immediately, broaden the board’s collective experience across the deathcare, consulting and financial services industries.

The new directors include:

• Mark Laber, managing director at global consulting firm BRG
• Knut Olson, CEO of Federal Life Insurance Group
• Raphael “Ray” Wallander, owner, chairman and CEO of Maxwell Bay Advisors, LLC
• Bill Williams, former president & CEO, and current consultant at Funeral Services, Inc. (FSI)

“This outstanding group of funeral industry veterans and business transformation leaders share our vision for the future of deathcare, and the vital role Foundation Partners will play,” said John D. Smith, CEO of Foundation Partners Group. “Their insights will be instrumental as we scale as a unified operating company and continue delivering end-of-life care rooted in simplicity, transparency and trust.”
Director Profiles

Mark Laber

Laber, a managing director within the corporate finance and turnaround practice at BRG, has advised on more than 50 transactions across multiple industries during his tenures at BRG, FTI and PwC. Based in New York, he specializes in working with companies and their investors during times of operational improvement and change.  

Knut Olson

With more than 30 years in life, health and annuity insurance, Olson is known for driving innovation, capital management and product development. As CEO of Federal Life Insurance Group, he launched a global reinsurance business and expanded accident and health operations. Previously, as president and CEO of National Guardian Life Insurance Company, he led upgrades in industry ratings and grew niche markets including preneed and long-term care insurance.

Raphael “Ray” Wallander

Wallander, founder of Maxwell Bay Advisors, has advised and served on the boards of more than 10 private companies. He specializes in corporate transformation, restructuring and governance. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at Wayzata Investment Partners, including corporate counsel and general counsel.
Bill Williams

A licensed funeral director since 1980, Williams has deep experience in funeral home and cemetery management, as well as regulatory and legislative advocacy. He served as president and CEO of Funeral Services, Inc. (FSI) for more than two decades before its acquisition by Argent Financial Group, where he now consults on funeral and cemetery trust administration and preneed programs.

“I am proud to welcome these leaders to the Foundation Partners board,” Smith added. “Together, we are well-positioned to support our frontline teams and advance our mission of providing meaningful, family-centered care.”

About Foundation Partners Group  

Winter Park, Florida-based Foundation Partners Group is one of the industry’s most innovative providers of funeral services and the second-largest funeral home group in the country based on the number of families served. Foundation Partners owns and operates a network of over 250 funeral homes, cremation centers and cemeteries across 21 states. Our deep understanding of technology and customer experience-centered approach allows us to deliver truly innovative and compassionate care to the families we serve. Visit www.foundationpartners.com to learn more.

Bob Arrington Honored with the Funeral Service Foundation Distinguished Service Award

Scholarship established to honor distinguished funeral director 

Brookfield, WI — The Funeral Service Foundation is proud to announce Bob Arrington as the 2025 recipient of its prestigious Distinguished Service Award, honoring his decades of exemplary leadership, service, and dedication to advancing the Foundation’s mission and strengthening the funeral service profession.

A visionary leader and compassionate professional, Arrington has left an indelible mark on funeral service. His remarkable career began at seven years old in Milan, Tennessee, and has spanned more than five decades of service, entrepreneurship and leadership. In 1995, he founded Arrington Funeral Directors in Jackson, Tennessee, and went on to innovate within the profession through ventures like Corporate Funeral Providers and ObituaryShare.com.

A tireless advocate for the profession, Arrington played important roles at the Tennessee Funeral Directors Association and the National Funeral Directors Association, serving as its 2015-16 President, holding multiple officer roles, and contributing to numerous committees and task forces for more than two decades.

Bob’s contributions to the Funeral Service Foundation have been equally profound. From 2013 to 2023, he served as a Foundation Trustee, including as Chair of the Board from 2017 to 2019. During his tenure, the Foundation’s endowment more than doubled – from $5 million to more than $11 million – while nearly $5 million in grants were awarded to programs and initiatives that support grieving communities.

His leadership was instrumental in the development and rollout of several key Foundation initiatives, including:

• Youth & Funerals, a vital resource encouraging youth preparedness and involvement in memorialization.
• When a Child Dies and Grieving Alone & Together, both of which remain widely used by funeral homes and healthcare organizations.
• Public education efforts such as FAMIC’s Have the Talk of a Lifetime consumer outreach campaign and the ZMET research study, Breaking the Consumer Code.
• Journey to Serve, veteran’s recruitment initiative in partnership with the ICCFA Educational Foundation

Beyond his service, Arrington and his wife Judy Arrington are charter members of the Guardian’s Fund, the Foundation’s planned giving society, demonstrating a deep personal commitment to the future of funeral service.

“Bob Arrington exemplifies what it means to serve with heart, purpose and vision,” said John Heald, Foundation Chair. “His leadership has not only shaped our Foundation but also uplifted countless professionals and families across the country. It is our honor to recognize his enduring legacy with the Distinguished Service Award.”

The Distinguished Service Award is presented to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the success and growth of the Funeral Service Foundation through acts of service or volunteer leadership.

The award will be presented on October 27 during the Funeral Service Foundation Donor Reception at the NFDA International Convention & Expo (October 26 through 29 in Chicago, Illinois).

In recognition of his lifelong contributions, the Foundation is raising funds to establish an academic scholarship in Bob Arrington’s name. Known for his dedication to helping others, from championing fundraising initiatives to serving as the longtime auctioneer for academic scholarships at Foundation events, this special occasion marks a heartfelt moment where the profession can express its gratitude to a remarkable leader.

Gifts and pledges to support the scholarship may be made at FuneralServiceFoundation.org/Donate-Now-Bob-Arrington.

ABOUT THE FUNERAL SERVICE FOUNDATION – FuneralServiceFoundation.org
Since 1945, the Funeral Service Foundation has served as the philanthropic voice of the funeral profession and has identified as the charitable arm of the National Funeral Directors Association since 1997. Donors and volunteer leaders profession-wide support the Foundation in its mission of lifting up grieving communities by investing in people and programs that strengthen funeral service.