In this week’s episode of The Rest, host Tony Russo covers major updates from across funeral service. From taking on a new role at Connecting Directors to shifting lending practices at Homesteaders, cemetery complaints in Tennessee and Maryland, and a preneed contract dispute, there is a lot to unpack.
Key Takeaways & Episode Highlights
New Role at Connecting Directors
Tony announces his new part-time position as managing editor at Connecting Directors. While his reporting for On Deathcare remains unchanged, he will be publishing broader press releases and original reporting on the site. Listeners interested in contributing stories or press releases can reach out to him via email at
tonyrusso@gmail.com.Homesteaders & The Bancorp Update
The Bancorp is reportedly no longer offering the funeral home expansion and acquisition loans previously paired with Homesteaders. The program allowed owners to leverage goodwill as equity. Homesteaders is currently seeking new banking partners.
Tennessee Cemetery Complaint
Funeral home owner Ralph Buckner Jr. has filed a complaint with the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance regarding severe, deplorable conditions at local cemeteries housing his family’s crypts.
Maryland Cemetery Neglect & Abandonment
Families at Western Star Cemetery in Catonsville, Maryland, report declining conditions since the owner’s passing a decade ago. The episode touches on state perpetual care oversight and the unfunded state cemetery cleanup initiatives.
Community Art at Candlelight Funeral Home
On a positive note in Catonsville, Candle Light Funeral Home by Craig Witzke has installed a community-building “Before I Die Wall” inside their outdoor pavilion area.
Reality TV Appearance
New York funeral director Joe Vanella is participating in the NBC/Peacock reality competition show The Traitors: New Blood.
Wrongful Removal & Embalming Incident
An Arizona hospital accidentally released a decedent to the wrong care center (Advantage Funeral and Cremation Services), where he was embalmed before being returned to the family’s chosen provider.
Preneed Contract Dispute in Kansas
A complaint has been filed with the Kansas State Board of Mortuary Arts against Park Lawn over a 1977 pre-need contract where the family was unexpectedly billed $21,000.
Resources & Links Mentioned
Shoutout: Check out the Graveyard Shift podcast
