Working in the deathcare industry allows me to witness the dedication and empathy of countless professionals who strive to provide comfort and solace to grieving families. One funeral director, in particular, has left a lasting impression on my heart. His compassionate approach to his work and genuine commitment to his calling have made him my favorite funeral director. In this blog post, I would like to share the touching story that forever endeared him to me.
A Father’s Final Wish:
On a windy day early in my career, I learned about a disinterment scheduled at the cemetery where I worked. Intrigued, I decided to attend the event. Upon arrival, I discovered the poignant tale behind the disinterment: a father’s final request to reunite with his infant daughter, who had passed away more than 40 years prior. The family wished to disinter the baby girl, have her cremated, and lay her to rest with her father inside his casket. This profound gesture of love touched me deeply, and I was eager to observe the process.
As I made my way to the infant garden of the cemetery, I noticed the funeral director overseeing the disinterment. I maintained a respectful distance while watching the operation, eager to learn from the experience. The funeral director displayed a close rapport with the groundsman, engaging in conversation for several minutes after the disinterment was completed. The infant vault lay on the ground next to the small, refilled, and newly-vacant grave site.
A Whispered Message Carried by the Wind:
When it was time for the funeral director to leave, he bent down to lift the infant vault. As the wind changed direction, it carried his whispered words to my ears: “Come on, sweetheart, your daddy’s waiting for you.” He handled the vault as gently as one would cradle a newborn and made his way back to his car.
That touching moment revealed that the funeral director’s profession was more than just a source of income for him; it was genuinely his calling. His compassionate approach to his work left a lasting impression on me, and he has remained my favorite funeral director ever since.
As a testament to the deep respect and admiration I have for him, his name is penned in my handwriting in my own Final Wishes Planner, next to the phrase “Preferred Funeral Director.” This signifies my trust and confidence in him to handle my end-of-life needs with the same care and compassion he demonstrated that day.
Conclusion:
The deathcare industry is filled with remarkable individuals who go above and beyond to provide comfort and support during life’s most difficult moments. This funeral director’s tender care and devotion to his calling serve as a powerful reminder of the impact we can have on the lives of those navigating grief and loss. By sharing this story, I hope to honor his compassionate spirit and inspire others to approach their work with the same level of empathy and dedication.
