ENCORE: The Future of Funerals: Insights from Kelly Scott, President of Australian Funeral Directors Association

Ever wondered what it’s like to grow up in a family of funeral directors? Join me as I chat with Kelly Scott, the General Manager of T.J. Scott and Son Funeral Directors in the Macedon Ranges.Kelly shares her unique journey, insights on dealing with death, and the profound importance of family and community in the funeral industry.Kelly Scott, a fourth-generation funeral director, takes us through the fascinating and often misunderstood world of funeral services. Kelly, who joined the family business over 30 years ago, shares her experiences growing up around the funeral home, how she and her family approach death with sensitivity and respect, and the evolving nature of funerals in modern times.Growing up in a funeral home might seem unusual to many, but for Kelly, it was just part of life. She recounts her childhood experiences, from family dinners interrupted by the phone ringing to her initial misconceptions about her father’s work. Despite the ever-present nature of death in their lives, Kelly’s family maintained a clear boundary between work and home, respecting the privacy of those they served.As Kelly delved into the funeral industry, she discovered her passion for helping families during their most difficult times. She talks about the importance of personalised funerals and how small touches, like playing a loved one's favourite music or involving families in the care of the deceased, can make a significant difference. Kelly’s dedication to her work is evident as she describes the joy she finds in supporting families and ensuring that every funeral is a meaningful and comforting experience.Key Points:Childhood in a Funeral Home: Kelly describes growing up in the only funeral home in Kyneton.Early misconceptions about her father's work and the privacy maintained by her family.Joining the Family Business: Kelly’s journey into the funeral industry, starting with administrative tasks.The natural progression from nursing to funeral directing.Personalising Funerals: The importance of making funerals personal and reflective of the deceased's life.Examples of unique touches, such as custom image-wrapped coffins and incorporating personal items.Professional Insights: Kelly’s role as the President of the Australian Funeral Directors AssociationThe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the funeral industry and advocating for essential service recognition.Resources and Links:T.J. Scott and Son Funeral DirectorsAustralian Funeral Directors AssociationCatherine Ashton’s Guide: “My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do NowJoin us for an episode that sheds light on the compassionate side of funeral services and the dedicated professionals who make saying goodbye a little bit easier. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from these heartfelt insights.Remember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.Take care,CatherineWe'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)Death is hard, make death admin easy with the Critical Info Platform. It’s a simple, secure system that helps you prepare and share your legacy, wishes and personal paperwork.It’s packed with prompts, guides and even a To Do List to help you easily gather critical information for a complete end-of-life plan.Leave behind a legacy, not a mess.Sign up now to your free trial at critical info.com.auNo credit card needed. Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays — free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.No pressure. No expectation.Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” — it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.SUPPORT SERVICESIf you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.Support the showSupport the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22aMusic composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/