Letter to the editor of all the local media outlets. Step up or move on.
Things look a little empty. Abandoned is a better word. The owner of our “local” funeral establishments, Service Corp International, doesn’t look like they are even cutting the grass. It appears that they are not interested in Chester, Ludlow, or the surrounding area.
The company is continuing to let the properties fall into disarray. I’m not sure if you have driven past these locations but things look abandoned. The building in Chester has weeds growing shoulder-height. I’m not sure if the new neighbors have an opinion; they have invested time and money resurrecting the old Legion building (which looks great, by the way.) The Vermont Institute of Contemporary Art is now situated next to “that” building. Funny, it used to be the other way around. The Ludlow facility is not any better; but, it does have a new sign.
Some people will say these comments come from a disgruntled ex-employee. True. But, as a member of the community and a member of both the National and State Funeral Director Association, I am outraged and offended. As a Funeral Director and Embalmer who has worked at both large and small funeral homes, I would consider the condition of these buildings as unacceptable. I am personally, and professionally, offended that a business, one that intends to offer dignified services, would present itself in these facilities. What does it say about their business practices? The fact that these are the most expensive funeral homes in the State of Vermont is direct slap in the face to hard working families and the funeral profession everywhere.
As a former employee, a member of the community, and a member of both the National and State Funeral Directors Association, I feel that SCI is obligated to provide the same service, facilities, and business practices as they do in their other SCI facilities. As a member of the community, I feel they should take pride and responsibility in their facilities, business practices and commitment to the community. As a Funeral Director and Embalmer, who has 20 years of experience, I ask SCI to please manage your locations. Funeral Directors have had to fight a bad reputation due to poor facilities and poor business practices for years. SCI, you are doing a disservice to yourself, our profession, and the community of which you are a “part.” Have some dignity.
