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The funeral profession, like many American industries, has a long and proud history of personal service provided by families with deep roots in the local community, and a deep commitment to upholding professional standards. Today, as in many industries, the funeral profession has seen the emergence of national, and even international funeral service conglomerates. But unlike other industries, these conglomerates rarely promote their presence and often avoid making the communities they serve aware of their ownership. In fact, funeral homes purchased by conglomerates often don't change the firm's name. Families have said that when they need the services of a funeral home, they want to turn to the firm who has an investment in their community. A firm who has an investment in making the experience right for them. So what makes a family owned funeral home better? First, its that all their attention is devoted to making their funeral homes the best they can be in terms of satisfying the needs of their friends and neighbors. They do what's right, yet are able to be flexible and more responsive to families. They are not bound by corporate mandates. Second, they take great personal pride in their funeral home staffs, facilities, paying pain-staking attention to detail to ensure the highest level of professional service. Third, they have a long-term commitment to their community because they call this "home." Family owned funeral homes can focus on the families they service. Large corporations answer to shareholders. In a family owned businesses, there is no pressure from "corporate headquarters" to increase profits. Family owned funeral homes understand that their business will do well when they serve families well. Family owned funeral homes also understand the nature and expectations of their community. Just as there are "local customs" which vary greatly around the world, so too can funeral home customs vary from community to community across our county. "We turn to our neighbors for services and products," said Nancy Lohman, who served as President of the Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce for two years. "Whenever possible, we choose to do business with other family owned and operated businesses in our community." Doing business with someone you know. When a family suffers the loss of a loved one, it can be comforting to know your funeral director. "That is why I take every opportunity to be involved in one community and to create the kind of personal relationships that allow us to provide individualized sensitive services families deserve," said Nancy Lohman. "Our family works hard to be accessible and responsive. We think families find it nicer to work with people they know and they like the flexibility and personal service they get when they can talk directly to the owner." The more you know about family owned & operated funeral homes, the more you will come to appreciate the difference. Whether you need to consult about pre arrangements, would like more information on topics such as cremation options or funeral costs, or are interested in aftercare services. And especially, when you need immediate assistance at the time of death. A family owned funeral home is part of the community, they're like family. "Grief only becomes a tolerable and comforting |