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.

Future Focused: CANA’s 2026 Cremation Symposium

Professionals Gather in Las Vegas this February 25-27, 2026 

WHEELING, IL— Explore today’s trends, reflect on current challenges, generate new ideas, and discover future opportunities! The Cremation Association of North America (CANA) returns to the Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino to help your businesses achieve a bright future. Join CANA this February 25-27, 2026, for the 2026 Cremation Symposium.   

CANA events are known for providing opportunities for owners and managers from across the profession to gather fresh, practical ideas that make a difference in their businesses. The 2026 Symposium will showcase sessions that generate solutions and set up conversations that carry over to networking, shared meals, and roundtables. CANA’s presenters will embrace the Symposium’s theme—Future Focused—but don’t worry if your own crystal ball is cloudy. We’ll be sure to address today’s challenges—like emerging disposition methods, low-cost competitors, unclaimed remains, AI and more—so you can uncover strategies that bring your future success into focus. 

As an attendee, you’ll bask in the splendor of the newly renovated Versailles Tower of the Paris Las Vegas Hotel. The iconic cobblestone pathways are lined with delicious restaurants, exciting nightlife, and fun experiences. It’s all just steps away from the CANA Symposium event, under softly lit ceilings painted to emulate the Parisian sky. This combination of luxury and convenience is just $209 per night. 

Registration prices for the 2026 Cremation Symposium are only $695 for the first registration and $495 for each additional employee; spouses/travel companions pay $350. 

Registration includes:  

• Networking at the Opening Reception on Wednesday where your first drink is on CANA! 

• Sumptuous breakfasts on Thursday and Friday (well worth the early hour!) 

• All-day coffee and beverages to keep your energy flowing 

• Delicious Thursday lunch 

• Evenings on your own to enjoy Las Vegas your way 

• Up to 7 Hours CE from the APFSP 

• The intimate networking experience you love about CANA events 

Opening our event is Larry Stuart, Jr., Founder & Principal of Raven Plume Consulting and an internationally recognized expert in funeral service, cemetery operations, and cremation. In his keynote session, Beyond the Flame: How Today’s Trends Are Shaping Cremation’s Next 150 Years, Larry reflects on 150 years of cremation practice and explores what the next 150 years could hold for our profession. From sustainability and technology to shifting family dynamics and memorial expectations, he’ll help you apply strategic foresight principles to anticipate opportunities, innovations, and challenges for cremation professionals in a rapidly evolving marketplace. 

A panel of legal and regulatory experts take the stage to discuss the Legal and Ethical Strategies for Unclaimed Remains. Tim Koch, Owner of Metro First Call and former Mortician Investigator for the State of Minnesota of 20 years; Tanya Marsh, Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Professor at Wake Forest University School of Law; Lara Price, Shareholder at Pappas Grubbs Price and CANA Legal Counsel; and, Wendy Russell Wiener, Managing Member of WRW Legal, PLLC, will uncover the hidden risks of unclaimed remains and help you learn how to protect your organization while honoring those left in your care. 

Cemetery experts from coast-to-coast will then tackle Cremation’s Role in Cemetery Financial Sustainability, moderated by Larry Stuart, Jr. Dan Applegate, President of The Arlington Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home; Steve Brown, Senior Director of Mount Auburn Cemetery; and, Sandra Walker, Chief Operating Officer of Fairmount Memorial Association, will discuss trends in consumer attitudes toward cremation memorialization and share success stories in revenue diversification that can bring new memorialization options to the families you serve into the future. 

For five decades, the American death care industry has seen a steady movement away from casket burial and towards cremation. But what if the ground is shifting beneath our feet? In her session, Tomorrow’s Consumers in Focus: Casket Burial Gains Ground Among Younger Adults, Tanya Marsh, Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Professor at Wake Forest University School of Law, highlights some of the big-picture results of the 2025 Wake Forest Law School study on consumer preferences in disposition methods across different demographics. She’ll help you explore proactive strategies to understand and adapt so you can honor a wider spectrum of final wishes and support every family. 

In Really Thriving or Just Surviving: How to Work Smarter and Build Wealth, Kara Ludlum, CPA and licensed funeral director, shares insights on how once financially strong funeral homes and cemeteries are now struggling amid changing industry dynamics and a persistent self-sacrificing culture. She’ll bring a practical roadmap to restore profitability and sustainability through strategies to manage inflation, leverage financing options, strengthen preneed programs, and move beyond burnout toward long-term financial health and business resilience. 

The future is bright when it comes to AI and the efficiencies it can bring. A panel of experts take the stage to share practical capabilities, case studies—and some cautionary tales—about AI usage in death care. The AI Panel features Lauren Pettine, Senior Associate at WRW Legal, PLLC; Curtis Funk, Founder of Tukios; and, Kris Yee, Co-Founder & CEO of Prelude. 

Take steps to transform your hospice relationships into strategic partnerships generating measurable results. Lacy Robinson, Sr. Business Consultant at Johnson Consulting Group, shares strategies to help you authentically connect with and support hospice care team members and leave with actionable frameworks in Advanced Hospice Partnership Strategies. 

Time to network is what makes a CANA event unique. In addition to the intimate atmosphere and meals, the crowd-favorite Roundtables session brings attendees face-to-face with session presenters and leaders from across funeral service in all business models, locales, experience levels, and call. Get a seat at the table as we tackle today’s challenges and share solutions.  

Put your business’s future success in focus. The 2026 Cremation Symposium shows you how. 

Registration is open to join CANA for the 2026 Cremation Symposium February 25-27, 2026, at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino. Register to attend at cremationassociation.org/future.  

Act soon and save: use promo code CYBERCANA to take advantage of the Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sale with 10% off your full registration! 

About CANA 

Founded in 1913, the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) is an international organization of over 3,700 members, composed of funeral homes, cemeteries, crematories, industry suppliers, and consultants. CANA members believe that cremation is preparation for memorialization. 

In a new world order that includes cremation, alkaline hydrolysis, and natural organic reduction it is sometimes forgotten that over 1 million caskets are sold in the United States every year.  To that discussion we will bring you some news from a couple of casket companies today.

Batesville, long known for its casket products, is continuing their transition to a total solutions company for funeral homes.  To that end they are introducing their “Remembrance Store” which will be a co-branded turnkey e-commerce storefront designed to generate incremental revenue streams for funeral homes.

According to this recent press release from Batesville,  “families are increasingly turning to outside providers and often shopping online for urns, remembrance jewelry, keepsakes, and other memorial products, leaving funeral homes vulnerable to both lost revenue and relationships”.

According to that press release:

• 58% of pre-need and 64% of at-need families researched funeral products such as urns and jewelry online, highlighting a need for shoppable digital resources consumers can access prior to contacting the funeral home.

• 30% of families buy urns before contacting a funeral home.

• 38% of pre-need and 37% of at-need consumers purchased remembrance products through Amazon.

• 32% of pre-need and 36% of at-need families consider shopping online to be a more ideal place to purchase memorialization products vs. only 20% at funeral homes.

Batesville’s “Remembrance Store”  will give families who prefer to shop online the convenience of purchasing through their trusted funeral home, which would allow funeral homes to capture that online revenue that may be going to other sources at this time.

Private Label Caskets, operating out of Indianapolis, Indiana, recently posted the following notice to their website:

Another Announcement ––  While we didn’t see it as a press release on the Batesville website we did receive the following notice from Batesville on their Facebook page which appeared on our Facebook scroll on October 28:

“We’re honored that Private Label has chosen Batesville as their recommended domestic supplier for their customers.  In times of change, we believe strength comes from partnership — and we’re committed to making this transition seamless for every funeral home they serve.  At Batesville, we’re proud to honor the tradition that defines this profession while driving the transformation prepares it for the future.”

Tom Anderson
Funeral Director Daily

Funeral Director Daily take:  The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) recently released this report which predicts that traditional burial in a casket will drop from today’s selection rate of 33.2% to approximately 13.0% –  a number that is lower than was originally thought —  by 2045.

We question what that might mean for casket companies in raw numbers.  Here’s some available statistics and some projected ideas that may give meaning to that answer.

In 2024, the United States reported approximately 3.1 million deaths with a 33.2% burial rate.  Extrapolating those numbers would mean that about 1,029,000 caskets were needed for those burials.

In 2050, projections tell us that the United States will grow to about 380 million people and the death rate per thousand people will grow from today’s level of about 9.06 deaths per 1,000 people to about 10.3 deaths per 1,000 people because of an “older average age”.  Projections tell us extrapolating those numbers would bring about a raw number death total of about 3.9 million residents.  At a 13.0% casket useage that would mean that about 507,000 caskets would be needed for those deaths.

Total US Population
1950 = 148 million, 2010 = 309 million, 2025 = 343 million

So, if those population, death rate, and disposition projections hold up over the next two decades you can see that only about 1/2 of the caskets used today will be needed in 2050.  If those numbers hold up there will probably be casket company consolidations and, as Batesville is doing, branching of the company into other segments.

U.S. Death Rate
1950=9.65/1000, 2010=8.00/1000, 2021=10.40/1000, 2021 represents a rise per pandemic

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

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.

This information (with photos) from the Hollywood Forever Cemetery announces the opening of their recently completed Gower Mausoleum.  Here’s a paragraph from the cemetery’s recent announcement:

“Hollywood Forever is honored to announce the opening of the Gower Mausoleum, a new architectural landmark in Los Angeles and the tallest mausoleum in the United States. Rising five stories above our historic grounds, this contemporary structure provides space for more than 50,000 loved ones in crypts and niches, ensuring Hollywood Forever may continue serving families for generations to come.”

In a city and area that has some unique architecture such as the Hollywood hill sign, the Los Angeles Airport design, and the round former Capitol Records building, the Gower Mausoleum will be the newest talk of the town.

The Hollywood Forever website also makes note the high-rise mausoleum will be the tallest mausoleum in the United States and it is expected to become a “cultural landmark and a sanctuary of remembrance.”

Premium Products —  I think we may be moving through a period in time where many economists believe we are in a “K”-shaped economy —  meaning that the economy is not the same for all.  Meaning that some people with assets are getting more assets and some people without assets are not growing any savings or assets at all —  that’s the “K”-shaped economy.

I also think that in an economy where cremation and not traditional burial is the norm that cemeteries established generations ago with the idea of selling burial plots in 4 foot by 6 feet dimensions might need to think outside the box and innovate their product mix.

When you look at this page titled “Hollywood Forever Premium Services” it appears that is exactly what Hollywood Forever is doing to maximize the sales revenue of their 55 acres.  Here’s a few (of many) items listed on that page with the cemetery’s pricing for each item:

• Private Family Mausoleums:  $50,000 to $3.5 million
• Sylvan Lake Peninsula locations:  $3.85 million  (can be developed as a place for memorial statuary, sarcophagi, a private cremation estate for a family for many generations, or simply a burial space for those who deserve the best.)
• Bronze Statue in the Garden of Legends:  Starting at $95,000
• Sky Terraces at the Gower Mausoleum:  Starting at $1 million

Tom Anderson
Funeral Director Daily

Funeral Director Daily take:  I think cemeteries and funeral homes that realize the burgeoning “K”-shaped American economy can make adjustments to reel in greater profits.  Maybe pinpointing “specialized-premium” marketing efforts to zip codes or neighborhoods that have a propensity to purchase greater services could have an effect on the size of the average individual sale moving forward.

Pinpointing these neighborhoods or areas might be the perfect use for Artificial Intelligence in funeral and cemetery marketing.

Just last week Delta Airlines indicated that for the first time ever their premium sales will be going over their economy sales.  Here’s what was said in their announcement, “The airline could soon earn more from premium seating than from economy for the first time,” according to the airline’s president, Glen Hauenstein. He continued, “We see that there are many, many more opportunities in premium in the coming years.”

I think that is an indication that “the experience matters”.  And I think that Hollywood Forever is learning that the “experience” of using a cemetery is more valued than simply buying a 4 x 6 foot plot for burial.  It is interesting to note that Hollywood Forever Cemetery is actually offering free Direct Cremation (value of $3,450) to those that purchase a cremation niche, tree memorial, or plot by a certain date.  It is also interesting to think about how that type of practice by memorialization companies might affect the business of Direct Cremation providers going forward.

Service Corporation International’s CEO Thomas Ryan made this comment during the company’s 2nd Quarter 2025 Earnings Call in July that insinuates that they see the experiential value movement also, “comparable preneed cemetery sales production increased by almost $19 million or over 5%, driven by a healthy increase in large sales as well as a modest increase in core sales.”  (Emphasis by Funeral Director Daily)

I think the experiential value shown here could help bring a turn-around to the “lower revenue per services” if approached correctly by funeral homes.  There seems to be no doubt that just as I enjoy the premium experience of reclining seats at a movie theatre as compared to the old fixed-position seats, that some clientele of death care, services, and memorialization, are willing to pay premium prices for the “right experiences”. . . . . The question might be, “Is your funeral home or cemetery willing to offer those experiences?”

Related Articles —

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

Honoring the Past, Advancing the Future: Express Funeral Funding Acquires Ford Acceptance

EFF proudly carries forward Ford Acceptance’s 55-year legacy while expanding its commitment to innovation, compassion and service excellence.

JEFFERSONVILLE, IN – (For Release 10.13.25) Express Funeral Funding (EFF), the nation’s FASTEST. EASIEST. at-need insurance assignment funding company, is proud to announce its acquisition of Ford Acceptance, a trusted name in funeral funding known for exceptional service and strong client relationships since 1969.

This strategic move enhances EFF’s national presence and furthers its mission to deliver compassionate support, unmatched service, and innovative funding solutions to funeral professionals and the families they serve.

“With a shared commitment to integrity and customer care, Ford Acceptance was a natural fit for EFF,” said Andy Buckman, president of Express Funeral Funding. “We’re honored to carry forward their legacy and deliver even greater value through expanded resources, advanced technology, and our unwavering dedication to service.”

Owners David LeVine and Alan LeVine, expressed confidence in EFF’s ability to continue serving their clients with excellence:

“EFF was the clear choice when considering the future of our clients,” said the LeVines. “They share our values and commitment to customer care. We know our clients will be in the best of hands.”

Ford Acceptance clients will now benefit from a seamless transition to EFF’s comprehensive suite of services, including faster claims processing, personalized support from an experienced team, and access to intuitive, user-friendly technology designed to streamline the funding process.

This acquisition marks another milestone in EFF’s continued growth and reflects its deep commitment to empowering funeral professionals with the tools, technology and support they need to serve families with excellence and care.

For more information on EFF, please visit www.expressfuneralfunding.com, email sales@expff.com, call or text 415.949.2428. EFF has been providing funeral homes and cemeteries nationwide with the ultimate funding experience since 2002. EFF eliminates the challenges of working with insurance companies by limiting administration, providing immediate payment, and advancing complete policy funds. 

NFDA Releases 2025 Cremation & Burial Report: Comprehensive Insights to Guide the Future of Funeral Service

Brookfield, Wis. – The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) has released its “2025 Cremation & Burial Report,” the most comprehensive analysis of consumer disposition trends available to funeral service professionals. The report shows the U.S. cremation rate is projected to reach 63.4% in 2025, more than double the burial rate of 31.6%.

Through state-by-state U.S. projections, as well as data from Canada and worldwide, the report provides funeral directors with the reliable, research-based insights they need to anticipate change, identify opportunities and serve families with confidence. 

The “NFDA Cremation & Burial Report” not only offers accurate statistics and projections, but also the broader context that funeral professionals need to make informed decisions for their businesses and the families they serve. 

Key Findings From the 2025 Report

• The U.S. cremation rate is projected to reach 63.4% in 2025, more than double the burial rate of 31.6%. By 2045, cremation will account for 82.3% of dispositions, while burials will decline to 13.0%.
• All 50 states and the District of Columbia are projected to surpass a 50% cremation rate by 2035.
• In Canada, cremations are expected to rise to 91.2% by 2045.
• Nearly 36% of member firms already offer online cremation arrangements, with another 25% planning to do so within four years.
• NFDA-member firms continue to identify the availability of qualified personnel as their greatest business challenge over the next four years. 

The report goes beyond statistics, incorporating analysis of economic conditions, workforce challenges, consumer preferences and funeral home operational trends. By putting cremation and burial projections in context, NFDA provides members with a sharper, more complete picture of how the profession is evolving and what it means for the future of service. 

Accessing the Report and Other NFDA Research 

The 2025 NFDA Cremation & Burial Report” is available free of charge to NFDA members and for $175 for nonmembers. Funeral professionals can download the report at  NFDA.org/Research.  At NFDA.org/Research, funeral professionals can also access a wide range of free NFDA studies and reports, including:

• “Across Borders, Across Traditions: A Global Study of Funeral Preferences” (2025): The first-ever global survey of consumer opinions on funerals, offering insights across countries and cultures.
• “Changing Consumer Preferences: A Generational Perspective on Attitudes Toward Funeral Service” (2025): A groundbreaking study on generational attitudes toward funeral service and evolving expectations.
• “Business Practices Study” (2025): An exploration of how funeral directors are adapting business practices in light of increasing cremation rates.
• “Consumer Awareness and Preferences Survey” (2025): Findings from NFDA’s direct-to-consumer research on evolving funeral service preferences.
• And many more. 

These resources are part of NFDA’s ongoing commitment to provide funeral service professionals with high-quality, independent research to help them make informed business decisions and deliver meaningful service to families. 

About the National Funeral Directors Association 

NFDA is the world’s leading and largest funeral service association representing 20,000 individual members who represent nearly 11,000 funeral homes in the United States and 49 countries around the world. NFDA is the trusted leader, beacon for ethics and the strongest advocate for the profession. NFDA is the association of choice because it offers funeral professionals comprehensive educational resources, tools to manage successful businesses, guidance to become pillars in their communities and the expertise to foster future generations of funeral professionals. NFDA is headquartered in Brookfield, Wis., and has an office in Washington, D.C. For more information, visit NFDA.org.

OGR Future Leaders Forum Inspires the Next Generation of Funeral Professionals

Attendees gained fresh insights and connections at OGR’s program for emerging leaders 

INDIANAPOLIS (September 4, 2025) – The International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR) proudly announces the success of its recent Future Leaders Forum, presented by Full-Circle Aftercare, held August 25-27, 2025, at the Karrer-Simpson Funeral Home, an affiliate location of Pollock-Randall Funeral Home in Port Huron, Michigan.

The Forum is designed to nurture and develop the next generation of leaders in the funeral service profession. Over the course of a two-day program, the event gathered young professionals, first and second-career individuals and emerging leaders from across the United States for engaging education, problem-solving exercises and strategic discussions.

“We are consistently impressed by the energy and excitement that Future Leaders bring to OGR,” said Wendy King, Executive Director of OGR. “We are proud to provide a space where emerging funeral professionals can connect, learn, and grow together. Events like this ensure that the profession continues to thrive with fresh ideas and strong leadership for years to come.”

As part of this year’s theme, the 2025 Forum empowered future leaders to “Own the Future,” with dynamic education opportunities, hands-on workshops, expert-led sessions and real-world scenarios. Education sessions covered a wide range of topics relevant to developing funeral directors. Some of the themes in event discussions included generational divide in the workplace, making informed preneed decisions, financial insight, personalized funeral services and the power of moments. Outside of education sessions, attendees also had the opportunity to explore the Port Huron community, taking in the beautiful lakes and lighthouses of the area. 

OGR is grateful for the continued support and partnership with the sponsors of this year’s event, which includes presenting sponsor Full-Circle Aftercare, Express Funeral Funding, Passages International and Johnson Consulting Group. 

“It was inspiring to see the passionate future leaders of funeral service come together,” said Vincent Roberge, Johnson Consulting Group. “We’re honored to have played a part in supporting their growth and are excited about the impact they’ll have moving forward.”

The Future Leaders Forum will return in 2026, but OGR Future Leaders remain active throughout the year. For more information on how both OGR member and non-member funeral homes can get involved, visit www.OGR.org/future-leaders-forum. 

About the International Order of the Golden Rule

The International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR) is an association of independently owned and operated funeral homes dedicated to ethical service to all. Founded in 1928, it is our mission to make independent funeral homes exceptional. We do this by building and supporting member interaction, information exchange and professional business development through a wide range of programs, services and resources. For more information, visit www.ogr.org.

OGR to Host Future Leaders Forum

OGR Presents Future Leaders Forum to Foster the Potential of Funeral Home Professionals

INDIANAPOLIS (July 11, 2025) – The International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR) is proud to announce the upcoming Future Leaders Forum, presented by Full-Circle Aftercare, held August 25-27, 2025, at the Karrer-Simpson Funeral Home, an affiliate location of Pollock-Randall Funeral Home in Port Huron, Michigan.

This event is designed to nurture and develop the next generation of leaders in the funeral service profession. This two-day program will gather young professionals, first and second-career individuals and emerging leaders for engaging education, problem-solving exercises and strategic discussions.

“We are pleased to host the 2025 OGR Future Leaders Forum in Port Huron,” said Ann Randall, Pollock-Randall Funeral Home. “It will be a great time of sharing, connecting and learning together while enjoying late August in our beautiful Blue Water Area on Pure Michigan’s Thumb Coast.”

The theme for the 2025 Future Leaders Forum is “Own the Future.” Participants will explore visionary concepts and innovative strategies that can help shape the funeral home of the future. The program will feature a diverse range of sessions and activities, including:

• “Bridging the Generational Divide in the Workplace” with Antonio Green, James H. Cole Home for Funerals
• “ Making the Best Choice for Your Preneed” with Andy Weninger, Premier Preneed Marketing
• “ Building a Strong Foundation: Financial Insights from Independent Funeral Homes presented by Express Funeral Funding” with OGR Members Chris Janowiak, Shelly Brown-Chudzinski, Phil Vallelunga, and Sara Walsh
• “ Star Trek and Vikings…. At a Funeral? aka Dare to Use Your Imagination” with Joe E. Pray, Pray Funeral Home 
• “The Power of Moments Workshop” led by Matthew Van Drimmelen, Full-Circle Aftercare
• Optional social activities, including a lighthouse tour and an evening at a local lake house.

“It’s an honor to support the OGR Future Leaders Forum and share knowledge with the rising stars of our profession,” said Matt Van Drimmelen, Full-Circle Aftercare. “Investing in the next generation of funeral service leaders ensures a stronger, more compassionate future for the families and communities we serve.”

Continuing education credits in accordance with state regulations are also available.

To support the attendance of OGR member funeral homes, the OGR Foundation is offering $350 scholarships to the first fifteen (15) OGR member funeral homes who register a staff member for the Future Leaders Forum. 

“As funeral homeowners in an ever-evolving field, we know how important it is to nurture and develop the next generation of leaders,” said Chris Miller, Chair of the OGR Foundation Board. “The Future Leaders Forum is an incredible opportunity for our emerging professionals to gain essential skills, connect with like-minded peers, and grow into the leaders our profession needs. I wholeheartedly encourage you to send your rising stars to this event. With the scholarships available through our foundation, there’s no better time to invest in their future and, in turn, the future of our independently owned funeral homes.” 

Express Funeral Funding is also a sponsor of the event. “EFF is honored to support OGR and is deeply committed to investing in the next generation of funeral service professionals,” said Deanna Wilkinson, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “Have fun and take this opportunity to grow, connect and lead the way forward in our vital and innovative industry!”

The Future Leaders Forum warmly welcomes participation from both OGR member and non-member firms. For more information and to register, visit www.OGR.org/future-leaders-forum. 

About the International Order of the Golden Rule

The International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR) is an association of independently owned and operated funeral homes dedicated to ethical service to all. Founded in 1928, it is our mission to make independent funeral homes exceptional. We do this by building and supporting member interaction, information exchange and professional business development through a wide range of programs, services and resources. For more information, visit www.ogr.org.