Funeral Director, Who Felt Death Was Her ‘Calling’ at 16, Breaks Down Biggest Misconceptions About Her Job (Exclusive)

Mortuary Cosmetologist Sheds Light on Misunderstood Profession (Exclusive)

Melissa Schmidt, a mortuary cosmetologist and funeral director based on Long Island, discusses the daily tasks and misconceptions of her unique job with PEOPLE. Schmidt’s journey into the world of death care began at a young age after experiencing a traumatic loss, sparking what she describes as ‘a calling’ to work in the funeral industry. Now 34, Schmidt reflects on the biggest misconceptions surrounding her profession to provide insight into the reality of her work.

As a child, the concept of death terrified Schmidt, but a personal experience at 16 led her to discover her passion for helping families navigate the process of saying goodbye to their loved ones. Schmidt emphasizes that many funeral directors, like herself, often feel a sense of ‘calling’ to the industry, driven by a desire to support and assist those in mourning.

After completing mortuary school, Schmidt began her career as a mortuary cosmetologist, focusing on body preparation, embalming, and casketing. Contrary to common misconceptions, her role involves a wide range of responsibilities, including administrative tasks, legal requirements, and emotional support for grieving families.

Schmidt’s training encompassed various aspects of funeral service, from anatomy courses to funeral home merchandising, to ensure she was well-equipped to handle the complexities of the job. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the diverse needs of each deceased individual and tailoring her cosmetic techniques accordingly.

In her over a decade of experience, Schmidt has found satisfaction in assisting families through all stages of the funeral process, from body preparation to the final farewell ceremony. Despite the challenging nature of her work, she finds fulfilment in providing comfort and support during times of loss.

Schmidt addresses common misconceptions about funeral directors, dispelling myths about high salaries and the division of responsibilities within funeral homes. She highlights the emotional and physical demands of the job, emphasising the importance of compassion and professionalism in every aspect of her work.

Beyond her professional duties, Schmidt has become a prominent figure on social media, using platforms like TikTok to educate and connect with a wider audience about the significance of funerals and the grieving process. Through her online presence as FuneralBabe, she aims to destigmatize conversations about death and provide a resource for those in need of support.

Schmidt’s dedication to her work extends beyond the confines of traditional funeral practices, as she continues to advocate for open conversations about death and its impact on individuals and families. By sharing her experiences and insights, she hopes to foster a greater understanding and appreciation for the role of funeral directors in society.

In conclusion, Melissa Schmidt’s journey as a mortuary cosmetologist and funeral director sheds light on the compassion, skill, and dedication required in the world of death care. Through her unwavering commitment to supporting grieving families and challenging misconceptions about her profession, Schmidt exemplifies the essential role that funeral directors play in honouring the lives of the departed.