Meet a Funeral Director: Steven Marcom Piña
How long have you worked at Marcom-Harvey Funeral Care? How did you first get into the profession?
I began my career as a teenager, working at a funeral home in California where I started as a gardener and car washer for funeral services. Gradually, I progressed to the role of funeral director. I pursued my education at Cypress Mortuary College in Cypress, CA, and later managed A.M. Gamby Mortuary in Lomita, CA until 2010. In 2010, I fulfilled a lifelong dream by opening Hadley-Marcom Funeral Chapel in Farmersville, CA. The following year, my business partner and I acquired Thomas-Marcom Funeral Chapel in Selma, CA, and in 2012, we established another Hadley-Marcom Funeral Chapel in Visalia, CA. In 2021, we divested our funeral home businesses in California and aquired what is now Marcom-Harvey Funeral Care in Kansas City, Mo.
What is your job like? What are you responsible for in a typical week?
As the owner, a licensed funeral director, and an embalmer, my day-to-day responsibilities entail overseeing the smooth functioning of my business. I spend a significant portion of my day consulting with my employees, participating in meetings, and conducting research within our industry. My primary focus is on reviewing policies, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring that we are in compliance with all federal, state, and local guidelines. My work is demanding, but it is also immensely rewarding to be able to provide a compassionate and dignified service to those who are grieving.
What is your favorite part of your job?
The most gratifying aspect of my work is the knowledge that our families are extremely satisfied with the level of service they received from our team. It brings me immense joy to know that we exceeded their expectations and they feel pleased about the level of service they received. It is truly an honor for a family to entrust their loved in our care and that is something that I don't take lightly.
What do you wish more people knew about funerals and cemeteries?
I wish more people knew that we, as fellow human beings, understand and feel their pain and sorrow, even if we always seem very strong. As funeral professionals it is our job to stay focused on the goal of getting our families through the process of planning their memorial, however we are always grieving with them as well. We recognize the depth of their emotions and empathize with what they are going through. It is our heartfelt desire to provide comfort and support to those who are grieving, and to let them know that they are not alone in their struggles. We believe that acknowledging and validating their feelings is an essential step towards healing and moving forward, and we are committed to doing our part in this process.
What was the most memorable burial that you've helped with?
I have a vivid recollection of attending the burial of a courageous firefighter who tragically fell ill and passed away unexpectedly. Being a part of his final farewell was an incredibly moving experience, as it demonstrated an extraordinary level of devotion, dignity, and reverence for the fallen hero. The atmosphere was solemn yet respectful, and it was evident that the funeral was a heartfelt tribute to a life of altruism and valor. It served as a poignant reminder of the courage and sacrifice exhibited by those who risk their lives to safeguard others.
Do you have any thoughts or recommendations for people who are grieving? Is there anything else that you'd like to share with our audience?
When it comes to grieving, it's important to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Each person's experience is unique, and everyone processes their pain in their own way. It's crucial for individuals to become familiar with the various stages of grief and to feel comfortable reaching out for support. Whether it's joining a grief group or seeking the guidance of a trained professional, there are resources available to help people navigate their personal grief journey. Don't hesitate to take advantage of these resources, as they can provide much-needed comfort and guidance during a difficult time.
Is there anything else that you'd like to share with our audience?
The funeral care industry is a unique field that demands a deep-rooted passion for serving others. It requires a selfless commitment to the well-being of grieving families and loved ones. Those who work in this industry find it to be an immensely gratifying job, as it offers the opportunity to help people during one of the most difficult times of their lives. However, it can also be a challenging and demanding profession that requires a great deal of responsibility and empathy. Overall, it is a fulfilling career path that requires a true dedication to service and compassion.
