September 2020

Page A27 SEPTEMBER 2020 FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS S ec t i on A A book that says, “Hey, we’re not all that creepy dude, in all black driv- ing that long, black hearse, out act- ing as a death monger at night.” In a tongue-in-cheek action, Watts in- cludes a promotional bookmark with all book sales: a laminated toe tag with his business card and author in- formation. While often misunderstood by the public, Watts hopes to remind the public that funeral directors - those that “get their hands dirty” and care for the deceased - are still human. “He is fallible,” Watts says, “and many times he is just like your neigh- bor or the guy beside you at the su- permarket. He is not the creepy older man in black, with cold hands, driv- ing that strange black hearse and talk- ing to you in an eerie manner.” In his typical sense of humor, Watts adds, “Well, hell, sometimes he is. I’ve seen that type myself and frankly, he creeps me out! We aren’t all like that.” Image of Funeral Directors Watts explained to American Fu- neral Director why he thinks people have this image of those in death- care. Mostly it’s related to fear of the unknown, but he feels that the pub- lic is interested and curious as well. “The funeral profession is like any other in the fact that there are good funeral directors and bad funeral di- rectors. We’ve all run into someone that has had a skewed opinion of the industry and its practitioners. It’s our job to try and correct that opin- ion, as best as we can.” Watts also addresses the possibili- ty that people, particularly his col- Dead Serious Continued from Page A26 leagues, will think that he’s poking fun at the profession or making light of a seri- ous situation. He states that he uses humor wisely, trying to “add a small bit of levity to the moment” or simply bring a smile to family members’ faces. “Timing is of the es- sence,” he says, “but if you hit the nail on the head, it can make a world of difference to a grieving family.” You can find more about “Dead Serious: My Life as a Funeral Director” at www. DeadSeriousBook.com or purchase it on www .Amazon. com. L ike Us On Facebook! *Applicants are not required to be NFDA members. award up to 30 Valued at approximately $400, Apply online by September 18. Call today for your online ordering credentials 800-827-5151 Visit messengerstationery.com/holiday-remembrances to learn more 9121 Reach Out with ongoing support for the families you serve throughout the year As we approach the holiday season, we know things look a little different this year. While you may not hold a typical Service of Remembrance, reaching out to families is more important than ever. WE ARE HERE FOR YOU. With a nice selection of Aftercare Gifts available, we can ship direct to your families so you don’t miss a beat this holiday season. LET US SHIP TO FAMILIES