Officialfuneralworld

04/02/2026

Official Celebration of Life Announcement

Order of Services Scheduled

FIRST PUBLIC VIEWING
FRIDAY, APRIL 3, 2026 | 4:00PM - 8:00PM
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH GRESHAM
2394 GRESHAM RD SE, ATLANTA, GA 30316

SECOND PUBLIC VIEWING
SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2026 | 2:00PM - 6:00PM
ADRICK ALEXANDER CHAPEL
12223 BROAD ST, SPARTA, GA 31087

CELEBRATION OF LIFE SUNDAY, APRIL 5, 2026 | 2:00PM
HANCOCK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASIUM
11311 HIGHWAY 15 N, SPARTA, GEORGIA 31087

FINAL RESTING PLACE
SPRINGFIELD BAPTIST CHURCH CEMETERY
3374 SPRINGFIELD RD. SPARTA, GA 31087

PROFESSIONAL FUNERAL SERVICE ENTRUSTED TO:
TRI-CITIES FUNERAL HOME
6861 MAIN ST, LITHONIA, GA 30058

04/01/2026

As Women’s History Month comes to a close, the Live with the Undertaker Podcast: Women’s Takeover Edition stands as a powerful tribute to the strength, resilience, and excellence of women in funeral service. Hosted by Kyra Thompson, this special edition brought together an inspiring panel of professionals—Katraisa Bostic, Carolyn Cranford Johnson, Felicia B. Woods, and Donnia Darby—each representing leadership and impact as licensed funeral directors and industry trailblazers.

Throughout the conversation, these women shared meaningful insights drawn from their personal journeys, highlighting the realities of working in a traditionally male-dominated field while redefining what leadership and success look like. From balancing compassion with professionalism to navigating challenges and breaking barriers, the discussion was both empowering and educational, offering wisdom for current and future generations in funeral service.

More than just a conversation, this episode was an unforgettable encounter rooted in purpose—centered on educating, elevating, and encouraging women to not just meet standards, but to create them. It celebrated the many roles women hold in today’s funeral industry, from embalmers to managers and practitioners, reminding us all of the lasting impact women continue to make while serving families and communities with excellence.

03/31/2026

03/30/2026

Women’s History Month: Mortician Edition

Chandra Gerald-Jennings, LFDE | Cedars Hill, TX

Chandra Gerald-Jennings is a proprietary professional with an impressive 45-year tenure in the death care industry. A savvy and classy visionary, Chandra is always seeking ways to improve and expand her legacy, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to her role. She credits her success to providing each family she serves with exceptional customer service, dignity, and professionalism.

Born into a rich, Christ-centered & faith-based legacy, Chandra is the daughter of the late Pastor C.H. & Clarice Sweeney-Gerald. She is a native of Dallas, Texas and a proud graduate of South Oak Cliff High School Class of 1979. Her educational journey continued at the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service, where she completed her studies in 1981.

Chandra holds a professional Funeral Director and Embalmer license in the State of Texas. She is also a licensed Pre-Need Insurance Agent and Notary Public. Chandra is an active member of the Independent Funeral Directors Association of Texas (IFDA), the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), and the National Funeral Directors & Morticians Association, Inc. Ladies Auxiliary (NFDMA).

Chandra’s journey into the funeral industry began at a young age and has continued to flourish throughout her education and career. Under the guidance of the late Mr. Walter A. Wilson, Sr. of Cedar Crest Funeral Home, she learned the essential management and community engagement skills that guide her today. She worked exclusively at Cedar Crest Funeral Home until its closure, which provided her with invaluable experience and deep insight into the industry.

In 2006, Chandra founded Sacred Funeral Home in Dallas, Texas. Sacred rapidly outgrew this location due to the exemplary compassion and careful consideration of others during their time of bereavement. To enhance the spirit of excellence and provide “Platinum Service”, in 2016, through faith, prayer, and supplication Sacred was blessed to relocate to Cedar Hill, Texas. This transition marked the beginning of a new legacy for Chandra; one where she could continue to serve the community with compassion, professionalism, and unwavering dedication.

Overall, Chandra’s leadership, expertise, and dedication to excellence have undoubtedly made her a respected figure in the funeral industry, both locally and beyond. Her continued commitment to serve her community and foster the growth of future professionals ensures that her legacy will endure for years to come.

Chandra, The Trendsetter, indulges in her passion for fashion, embodying the essence of a true fashionista. Her impeccable sense of style adds flair to her personality, reflecting her confidence and elegance which illuminates every room she enters.

03/30/2026

Women’s History Month: Mortician Edition

Mrs. Crystal Matthews-Marrow, LFD, CFSP, CCO
Goldsboro, NC

Crystal, a native of the town of Pinetops, North Carolina, has been in funeral service for over 14 years. She has been licensed as a Funeral Director by the North Carolina Board of Funeral Service. She holds an Associate in Science degree in Business Administration from Edgecombe Community College. Crystal is a proud member of the Eastern District Funeral Directors and Morticians Association where she serves as the President, Funeral Directors and Morticians Association of North Carolina, and the National Funeral Directors and Morticians Association. In addition to those memberships, Crystal is a member of the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice, where she serves on the Board of Trustees as the Vice President. Besides work, Crystal is happily married to Lenston D. Marrow; proud mother to Lennyx, Tyler and Janiyah. She attends Greater Joy Church in Rocky Mount, North Carolina under the leadership of Bishop Shelton C. Daniel.

03/25/2026

ARE YALL READY?

03/25/2026

Women’s History Month: Mortician Edition

Ernestine O’Bee-Wilson, LFD | Milwaukee, WI

Ernestine is remembered as a trailblazer in the funeral service industry and a woman of remarkable strength, dignity, and vision. As one of the first Black female licensed funeral directors in her region, she broke barriers during a time when both racial and gender limitations were deeply entrenched. Her achievement not only opened doors for other women of color in the profession but also redefined what leadership in funeral service could look like—compassionate, professional, and rooted in community care.

Throughout her life, Mrs. O’Bee was a pillar in her community, known for serving families with grace, respect, and unwavering commitment during their most difficult times. Her funeral home became more than a place of service—it was a trusted institution where generations of families found comfort and guidance. Beyond her daily work, she contributed to her community through involvement on various boards and civic organizations, helping to shape initiatives that uplifted and strengthened those around her. Her presence and influence extended far beyond her profession, touching lives in meaningful and lasting ways.

Her legacy is one of perseverance, excellence, and service. Even after her transition, her impact continues to be felt through the lives she touched and the paths she helped pave for future generations in funeral service. Ernestine O’Bee will always be remembered as a pioneer, a mentor, and a woman whose life’s work exemplified both professionalism and heartfelt compassion.

03/25/2026

Official Transition Announcement

03/25/2026

Women’s History Month: Mortician Edition

Sandra Clark, LFD | Dallas, TX

Sandra Clark of Dallas is a respected female funeral home owner and licensed funeral director (LFD) whose work reflects both professionalism and compassion. As a leader in her field, she has built a reputation for guiding families through some of their most difficult moments with dignity, care, and attention to detail. Her presence in the funeral service industry represents strength, resilience, and a commitment to excellence in serving others.

Throughout her career, Sandra Clark has made meaningful contributions to her community by providing not only funeral services but also emotional support, grief resources, and outreach to families in need. She is known for creating a comforting environment where families feel heard, respected, and cared for. Her dedication extends beyond the funeral home, as she actively engages with community initiatives and supports programs that uplift and educate those around her.

Sandra Clark’s lifetime achievements are marked by her unwavering commitment to service, her leadership as a woman in a traditionally demanding profession, and the trust she has earned from countless families. She is admired for carrying herself with professionalism and class, ensuring that every service reflects honor and respect for the lives being remembered. Her legacy continues to be one of excellence, compassion, and a deep-rooted passion for serving others with integrity.

03/24/2026

Women History Month: Morticians Edition

Shameka S. Reynolds, LFDE | Lithonia, GA

Shameka S. Reynolds of Lithonia, Georgia is a dynamic leader, licensed funeral director, and public servant whose life’s work reflects both compassion and purpose. As co-owner and funeral director in charge of Tri-Cities Funeral Home, she has continued a strong family legacy rooted in service, dignity, and excellence, a legacy passed down from her grandparents who founded the firm. Educated at Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service, she has built a respected career in funeral service, serving families across Georgia with professionalism and care while also maintaining affiliations with organizations such as the National Funeral Directors & Morticians Association and the Georgia Funeral Directors Association.

Beyond her work in funeral service, Reynolds serves as the elected Mayor of Lithonia, where she has demonstrated a deep commitment to community development, public service, and leadership. First serving on the city council before becoming mayor, she has helped guide initiatives focused on economic growth, infrastructure, and community engagement, always striving to uplift the citizens she serves. Her leadership has earned her numerous recognitions, including Funeral Director of the Year and being named among influential women in Atlanta, reflecting both her professional excellence and civic impact.

Her journey has not been without challenges, including personal trials such as surviving cancer, which has further strengthened her resilience and deepened her passion for serving others. Through every season of her life, she has remained committed to mentoring others, uplifting her community, and honoring the legacy entrusted to her. Whether through her work in funeral service, her role in municipal leadership, or her involvement in professional organizations, Shameka Reynolds continues to leave a lasting impact marked by strength, service, and an unwavering dedication to people