Alabama Funeral Directors Association

04/10/2026

The Alabama Funeral Directors Association is proud to recognize one of our dedicated professionals, Clarence Rice, of AFDA Member Firm Smith & Gaston Funeral Services.

Serving with one of Alabama’s most historic and respected funeral homes, Clarence represents the very best of our profession-commitment to families, compassion in service, and a deep respect for the traditions that define funeral service.

Smith & Gaston Funeral Services has long stood as a pillar in its community, with a legacy rooted in service, dignity, and care. Professionals like Clarence Rice continue to carry that legacy forward each day, serving families with excellence and professionalism.

Associational Membership Matters.

EMPLOYEE HIGHLIGHT:

Today, we proudly recognize and celebrate Mr. Clarence Rice, a dedicated Licensed Funeral Director who has served with Smith & Gaston Funeral Home since 1998.

For over two decades, Mr. Rice has shown unwavering compassion, professionalism, and commitment to the families he serves. His work goes far beyond a profession! It is a calling marked by dignity, respect, and heartfelt care during life’s most difficult moments.

Thank you, Mr. Rice, for your years of service, your steady presence, and the comfort you bring to so many! 🕊️

04/08/2026

We are proud to recognize Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, an AFDA Patron Member firm, for continuing a meaningful tradition in their community through their annual Easter Sunrise Service.

This special service provides a time of reflection, remembrance, and hope as families gather to celebrate the message of Easter at sunrise. It is a beautiful example of how our member firms serve not only in times of loss, but also in moments that bring communities together.

Thank you for your dedication to your families and your community—and for representing the very best of our profession.

Associational Membership Matters.

Our Community, Our Commitment
Due to inclement weather, this year’s Easter Sunrise Service was held in the chapel rather than by the lake, but it was still a meaningful and well-attended gathering. Kade Hornsby of Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home welcomed guests as we came together in reflection and fellowship.

We extend a special thank you to our speakers, musicians, and congregations: Pastor David Edwards of Calvary Assembly of God, Pastor Eric Foxx of Home Church, Pastor David Smith of Oak Park Church of God, and Rev. Arnold Oliver of Calvary Assembly of God.

Following the service, guests enjoyed donuts, coffee, and time together in fellowship, with special thanks to Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery for their support in helping prepare for the morning. In the spirit of giving back, donuts were also delivered to the Mobile Fire and Rescue Department – Seelhorst Station, compliments of MMGFH, in appreciation of their dedicated service to the community.

04/05/2026

03/25/2026

Please join us in congratulating Bobby Agee of AFDA member firm Agee Brothers Funeral Home on being named Citizen of the Year by The Clanton Advertiser’s “Progress” magazine.

Bobby’s dedication to his community, his profession, and the families he serves reflects the very best of funeral service. His commitment is evident not only in his work, but in the lasting impact he continues to make throughout Clanton and beyond.

We are proud to call Bobby part of the AFDA family.

Associational Membership Matters.

Bobby L. Agee, founder of Agee Brothers Funeral Home and Chilton County’s first Black commissioner, is named The Clanton Advertiser’s 2026 Citizen of the Year.

03/24/2026

Apply Today!
The Dr. Calvin J. Meadows Young Professionals Award recognizes the future leaders of our profession.

See the March issue of THE UNDERTAKINGS for full details, or contact the AFDA office at info@alabamafda.org for more information.

Associational Membership Matters

03/24/2026

There’s just something about a leader who isn’t afraid to roll up his sleeves and serve.

Today, AFDA President Bill Clark, of Advocate member firm Serenity Funeral Home, stepped behind the grill and treated the team to a great lunch. It’s moments like these that reflect the kind of leadership that defines our profession-hands-on, servant-hearted, and rooted in community.

Associational Membership Matters.

Our Funeral Home Manager, Bill Clark, decided it was the perfect day and weather to bust out the grill and cook up some tasty burgers for the company!
Lunch tastes better when Bill’s on the grill. 😎
Thank you Bill!

03/23/2026

Registration is now OPEN for the 139th AFDA Convention!

Join us June 21–23, 2026 at The Grand Hotel in Point Clear, Alabama, as we gather for one of the most anticipated events of the year.

This year’s convention promises meaningful education, valuable connections, and the opportunity to strengthen our profession together.

📍 The Grand Hotel – Point Clear, AL
📅 June 21–23, 2026

Scan the QR code to register today and secure your place.

Associational Membership Matters.

03/19/2026

On behalf of the Nominating Committee, please see the proposed slate of officers for the 2026–2027 term.

The Committee carefully considered candidates based on their experience, leadership, and commitment to our organization. We are confident that this group will continue to move our association forward and serve the membership effectively.

Please review the attached slate in advance of our upcoming meeting. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out prior to the meeting.

Thank you for your continued engagement and support.

03/19/2026

Check out what’s new with Matt Roper and AFDA Sustainer member Shields Professional Vehicles.

Associational membership matters.

Shields Car of the Week brings flexibility and elegance together: a 2026 Ford Platinum combination hearse featuring a Lincoln front grill and integrated urn enclave. Ideal for services that move seamlessly from removals to ceremonies while maintaining a dignified look. How would a combination vehicle like this support your team’s day-to-day needs?

03/19/2026

We’re proud to see AFDA Advocate Member Serenity Funeral Home supporting their community as a sponsor of the TAA Ballpark and the Yankees team-led by their own Warren as coach.

Moments like these remind us that our members go beyond service-they invest in the future. Wishing all the kiddos a fun and successful season!

Associational membership matters.

03/17/2026

NFDA Cremation Certification Program on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Jefferson State Community College – Jefferson Campus in the Fitzgerald Student Center, Room 400.

This program is ideal for those seeking initial certification as well as professionals needing a refresher course.

Seating is limited, so we encourage you to register early to secure your spot.

Associational membership matters.

03/17/2026

🍀 Happy St. Patrick’s Day from the Alabama Funeral Directors Association 🍀

Today we celebrate a day of tradition, heritage, and a little bit of luck. May your day be filled with peace, good fortune, and meaningful moments with those who matter most.

Thank you for all you do to serve your communities with care, compassion, and dignity.

Associational membership matters.