A Funeral Home Owner plans and directs funeral and burial services for the deceased.
7 July 2024
Depending upon the size and type of the funeral home, the responsibilities may include
Arranging for the deceased to be picked up and/or shipped out of state
Overseeing the preparation for funeral services for the deceased
Establishing the time and location of wakes, memorial services, and funerals
Preparing obituary notices
Arranging for clergy and pallbearers for the desired memorial or services
Consulting with families to prepare the notices, services, and casket or urn selection
Overseeing or helping to embalm bodies
Being familiar with the customs of many faiths and ethnic groups
Submitting the appropriate paperwork to the state's authorities
Contacting cemeteries to schedule the opening and closing of graves
Contacting cemeteries to schedule the opening and closing of graves
Informing family and friends of available benefits
Key Skills and Competencies
1. Logical Skills (25%
Essential for planning and organizing services and handling the logistics involved.
2. People Skills (20%)
Crucial for interacting with grieving families and coordinating with staff.
3. OVerbal Skills (15%)
Important for communicating with families, staff, and clergy.
4. Physical Skills (15%)
Needed for the physical aspects of managing funeral services.
5. Writing Skills (10%)
Necessary for preparing obituaries and other written communications.
6. Reading Skills (10%)
Important for understanding legal documents and other paperwork.
7. Emotional Skills (5%)
Beneficial for empathizing with grieving families.
Funeral Home Owners should also have natural abilities or experience in leadership, communication, and multi-tasking. Attention to detail and relationship-building skills are essential.
Work Environment
Funeral Home Owners primarily work in their funeral home or office. They often work 50-60 hour workweeks if running a small funeral home, or may have a more standard 40-hour workweek if managing a larger establishment.
Education & Experience
1. Associate's Degree in Mortuary Science
Common among funeral home owners.
2. Bachelor's Degree
Some may pursue further education for more in-depth knowledge and skills.
Employment
Ensuring the business adheres to all relevant health and safety regulations.
Business Considerations
Operating a funeral home involves several business aspects, including:
Maintaining the facility and ensuring it meets health and safety regulations.
Hiring, training, and managing staff.
Marketing and community outreach to build the business's reputation.
Financial management, including budgeting, billing, and handling payments.
Staying updated with industry regulations and ensuring compliance.