Today we’d like to introduce you to Isaiah Harris.
Hi Isaiah, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My passion for the funeral industry started a little after 2021 when my great aunt passed away. I remember being drawn to how everything was handled—the funeral home, the cars, and the way they carried themselves. On the day of her funeral, I just sat and watched it all, and it made me think, how can I get into this?
At the time, I was around 12, so I felt like I wasn’t old enough. I pushed it to the side, but it never really left me.
In 2023, another one of my great aunts passed away, and that’s what really did it for me. I had been with her a lot in the hospital, going almost every day, so when she passed, it hit different. That feeling came right back—this is something I really want to do.
In July of 2024, everything changed. One night I was scrolling on social media and saw a funeral service video, and I remember thinking, this is your chance. I went on Google, searched for funeral homes near me, and started reaching out—emails, texts, anything. I told them I was willing to do whatever it took, even unpaid, just to get my foot in the door.
Then I found Allen Dave Funeral Homes & Crematorium on Facebook. It was close to me, so I messaged the owner, Dr. Dave, that same night.
The next morning, I saw his reply. He asked me why I was so interested at my age and told me to give him five reasons why he should even talk to me. I gave him five real reasons from the heart.
He told me to reach back out that Sunday, and we set up an interview. At the end, he asked if I had a black suit, a red tie, and black dress shoes. I told him yes, and he said, “Come in next Saturday at 10:00 AM.”
I showed up early and ready—and the rest is history. This July will make two years, and I’m still going strong in something I truly have a passion for.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, it has not been a smooth road. Starting out so young, one of the biggest challenges was getting people to take me seriously. A lot of times, I had to prove that I wasn’t just interested—I was committed and willing to learn.
Another struggle was dealing with the emotional side of the work. Being around death and grieving families isn’t easy, especially at a young age. It took time for me to build the strength and professionalism needed to handle those moments the right way.
There were also times where I doubted myself or felt like I might be too young to be in this field. But instead of letting that stop me, I used it as motivation to keep showing up, learning, and improving. I also had my father in the funeral industry, Mr. Namon Thomas, in my corner—someone who believed in me, guided me, and kept me focused when things felt uncertain.
It hasn’t been easy, but every challenge I’ve faced has only made me stronger and more certain that this is exactly where I’m supposed to be.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My main role at the funeral home is to help make the environment feel more welcoming and warm. Every family that walks through those doors, I treat like my own, because death is never easy. A lot of times, it’s something new for families, and it’s not something you can take lightly. I focus on making sure they feel comforted, respected, and taken care of during one of the hardest times in their lives.
I’m known for being a go-getter. I don’t just do what’s asked of me—I take initiative. A lot of the time, things are already done before anyone even has to ask. Whether it’s helping with services, preparing the space, or handling small details, I take pride in staying one step ahead and making sure everything runs smoothly.
What I’m most proud of is my hard work—not just at the funeral home, but in school as well. I’ve stayed focused, disciplined, and committed, and I’m proud of the awards and recognition I’ve earned along the way.
What sets me apart is my mindset and my heart for this work. At my age, not many people choose this path, but for me, it’s deeper than that. I don’t see this as just a job—I see it as a calling. I show up every day ready to learn, ready to serve, and ready to give families my best.
Anybody can do a job, but not everybody can serve people the way this work requires.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memories would have to be the time I spent with my family. I grew up always on the go, especially with my mom. One minute we could be at home, and the next minute we’d be in another town or city—sometimes just to pick something up or even just to go to stores we didn’t have where we lived. Those random road trips and long days out are something I’ll always remember.
I also really value the time I spent with my grandparents. Just being around them, learning from them, and spending real time together meant a lot to me growing up.
Looking back, it wasn’t just one moment—it was all the little ones that added up.
Those moments didn’t just pass the time—they shaped the person I’ve become.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jrmortician
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/isaiah.harris.335022
