What does it truly mean to care for families during their most profound moments of loss? For many, the role of a funeral director is shrouded in mystery. In a recent episode of the Remembering a Life podcast, host Gail Marquardt sits down with John Hill, a licensed undertaker and educator, to pull back the curtain on this vital profession. His story is a powerful reminder that the path to finding one's purpose can be unexpected, leading from a church pulpit to the sacred space of a funeral home.
A Journey Guided by Service
John Hill didn't start his career planning funerals. He began in ministry, dedicating his life to serving his community from a place of faith. When he felt a calling to step away from his role as a pastor, he found himself with a closet full of suits and a question: "Where could I work wearing all these suits?" The answer that came to him was a funeral home.
What started as a temporary solution soon became a lifelong passion. John shares the pivotal moment he witnessed his first embalming from start to finish. He saw the "transformation of the dead" and understood the profound impact this work has on the living. It was then he knew he was called to funeral service, driven by the same desire to help people that had guided his ministry. For him, being a funeral director is an extension of that service—a way to support families during their darkest and most difficult times.
The Art of Personalization in Funerals
Many people think of funerals as strictly traditional events. John is quick to point out that "traditional" doesn't mean "outdated." In fact, he believes that time-honored rituals, like having a viewing, are more relevant than ever. However, he also champions the power of personalization to make each service a unique and meaningful tribute.
Throughout the conversation, John shares creative ways he helps families honor their loved ones. This can be as simple as giving out the person's favorite candy during the service or creating a taco bar at the reception for a Taco Bell enthusiast. He has used a person's name to create an acrostic poem highlighting their best qualities and invited families to take home a flower from the arrangements as a memento. These small, thoughtful details transform a service from a somber duty into a celebration of a unique life.
The Value of a Final Goodbye
One of the most powerful topics John discusses is the importance of viewing the deceased. He explains that this is a deeply personal choice, but one that holds immense value for the grieving process. A viewing provides a crucial step in accepting the reality of death, offering a final moment of connection and peace.
John has seen firsthand how families who initially decline a viewing later struggle with a sense of emptiness. He gently guides them, explaining that seeing their loved one looking peaceful can replace more traumatic final memories and help them acknowledge the reality of the death. This is especially true for those who lost someone unexpectedly. The opportunity to say a final goodbye is a gift—one that helps the living begin to heal.
Educating the Next Generation
Beyond serving families at the funeral home, John is deeply committed to shaping the future of his profession as a clinical coordinator and instructor for Pierce Mortuary Colleges. He details the rigorous academic and experiential standards required for students to become licensed funeral directors and embalmers. With the rise of online learning, education has evolved, but the core mission remains the same: to prepare students to serve with the highest level of skill and compassion.
Listen Now
John Hill’s story is one of purpose, compassion, and unwavering dedication. His insights offer a rare and valuable look into the heart of funeral service. Whether you're considering a career in the field or simply want to understand more about the importance of memorialization, this episode is a must-listen.
October 2025