Funeral Director and Former Mortician Reveals the 5 Things She’d Never Do After Years of Dealing with the Dead (Exclusive)

Former Funeral Director Shares Five Life Lessons From the Deceased

Annie Owen, a former funeral director and mortician, has recently opened up about the inspiring lessons she learned from her time working with the dead. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Owen shared her insights gained from her years of experience in the funeral service industry.

Owen’s journey into the world of funeral service began in high school when she expressed interest in pursuing a career in this field. Despite initial pushback from her father, who believed it wasn’t a suitable job for women, Owen pursued her passion. After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in funeral science, she started as an apprentice and eventually became a mortician and funeral director in her hometown. Reflecting on her early days in the industry, Owen described the challenges she faced, particularly in dealing with familiar faces in a small community.

One poignant experience that shaped Owen’s perspective was the sudden loss of her best friend’s father, whom she was called to assist with as part of her job. This incident served as a poignant reminder of the emotional toll that comes with working in the funeral service industry. Owen highlighted the importance of supporting others during times of grief, even if it means suppressing personal emotions to focus on providing comfort and assistance to grieving families.

Despite the somber moments she encountered, Owen found solace in celebrating the lives of those who had passed away. She emphasised the joy that comes from hearing and sharing stories about individuals’ lives, which often serve as a source of inspiration and comfort for their loved ones. Owen debunked common misconceptions about funeral directors, underscoring the integrity and dedication that most professionals in the industry uphold when carrying out their duties.

To challenge stereotypes and shed light on her experiences, Owen launched a TikTok series titled “5 Things I Won’t Do Because I’ve Been A Mortician.” In these videos, she shares valuable life lessons gleaned from her encounters with the deceased, ranging from cautionary tales to humorous anecdotes. Through her platform, Owen aims to educate and raise awareness about the realities of working in the death industry, while honouring the memories of those she has assisted throughout her career.

In addition to sharing insights from her professional life, Owen also uses her platform to recount personal accounts of the deceased, fostering remembrance and compassion for those who have passed away. By sharing these stories, she not only pays tribute to the individuals she has encountered but also highlights the resilience and strength of the families she has worked with over the years. Through these narratives, Owen honours the unique lives of each person she has had the privilege of serving, reinforcing the importance of embracing the beauty in commemorating their legacies.

While discussing a topic that many find uncomfortable, Owen encourages others to recognise the significance of commemorating the lives of those who have come before us. She views her role as a funeral director as a profound honour, allowing her to connect with families and preserve the memories of the deceased. As she continues her work, Owen remains dedicated to learning from the stories of the dead and upholding the values of compassion and respect in her profession.