May 23, 2025

Much of Montana’s “rich and rare” early history can be felt by passing through the large stone archway at the entrance to Forestvale Cemetery a few miles north of the Capitol at Helena, Montana.

Here are just a few notes on what is happening with the NFDA and our trip to Washington, D.C. We flew into D.C. in early April for the Advocacy Summit with NFDA and hundreds of funeral directors from across the nation to advocate for issues facing our industry to our respective legislative delegates.

Albert “Al” James Jr. Oct. 14, 1935-March 27, 2025 Albert (Al) James Jr., a Walkerville legend, passed away on March 27, 2025. Al was born in 1935 to Albert James and Elizabeth Maud Williams of Cornwall. Growing up as a Blainer in Walkerville and a golden-glove boxer with the St. Lawrence boxing team, Al lost

NFDA joins millions around the world in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, who led the Roman Catholic Church with humility, compassion and a deep commitment to mercy and inclusion.

On May 6, 2025, the full Montana State Board of Funeral Service met in Helena. The key discussion revolved around HB 27. As you know, 2025 is a legislative year, and several developments are expected to impact funeral services in Montana.

Awards will be presented at the MFDA Convention & Trade Show.

Feature image: Leili McMurrough in the classroom at Worsham College of Mortuary Science | Photo courtesy Sophie Baron Photography It’s hard to think of something Leili McMurrough hasn’t done. She’s a licensed funeral director, embalmer, attorney, Worsham College of Mortuary Science president and program director and co-owner of McMurrough Funeral Chapel in Libertyville, Illinois, with

Great Convention Speakers and up to 8 CE Credits Available

The U.S. Army announced the limited reintegration of the caisson into funeral services at Arlington National Cemetery. The limited reintegration is necessary to ensure the safe and sustainable reintegration of the caisson horses into the unique and dynamic environment of an active cemetery.

As I write my inaugural article as executive director, I welcome the changing season in Montana with open arms and a heart full of eager anticipation.

I write this column with both a sense of sadness and accomplishment, for this is the last column I write with the title of MFDA Executive Director.