Katie is a 2001 graduate of Wayne State University where she obtained her degree in Mortuary Science. With over 20 years of experience as a Licensed Funeral Director & 8 years of combined management in Funeral Home operations, Katie brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Family First Funeral & Cremation Services. Her diverse experience with families from all backgrounds has equipped her with a deep understanding of the unique needs and sensitivities of each family she serves. Katie is dedicated to ensuring that every service is conducted with the utmost compassion and respect, always prioritizing the needs of the family first.
Katie’s commitment to providing low-cost, high-quality services reflects her belief that everyone deserves a dignified farewell for their loved ones. Her transparent approach and empathetic nature make her an invaluable leader in our team, guiding families through their most challenging times with care and understanding.
Outside of her professional life, Katie is a devoted mother to her teenage son, Emmett. She enjoys traveling and spending time with her family and friends.
Cindy is a compassionate and family-oriented individual hailing from the Southwest Michigan area. She is a devoted mother to three children and a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren. Cindy’s life is enriched by a wide circle of friends who cherish her warmth and kindness.
Deeply involved in her community, Cindy is an active member of her church in Gobles, MI. Her faith and dedication to service are evident in her numerous contributions to church activities and events. Cindy’s nurturing spirit and unwavering support make her a beloved figure among her family, friends, and community.
Raylin has been working in the funeral industry for about two years, but her interest in funeral and mortuary sciences began when she was a child. It has been a lifelong passion of hers, and she truly values the opportunity to help families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
She believes everyone deserves to be treated with compassion and respect, including our beloved pets. When someone is entrusted to her care, she wants their family to know that they are cared for and loved by her as well.
She is currently working toward becoming a funeral director and continuing to grow within the profession.
Originally from Ohio, she moved to Michigan in 2022 and has enjoyed making Southwest Michigan her home. Outside of work, she enjoys nature, art, going to the gym, and spending time with her friends and cats.
Shelby Lathrop serves as the Transport Operations Manager at Family First Funeral & Cremation Services. With a compassionate heart and a strong dedication to serving others, Shelby takes great pride in ensuring that every loved one entrusted to her team's care is treated with the utmost dignity, respect, and professionalism.
In her role, Shelby oversees daily transport operations, supports her team, and works to ensure that families and funeral professionals receive dependable, compassionate service during life's most difficult moments. She believes that even the smallest acts of kindness and attention to detail can make a meaningful difference.
Outside of her professional life, Shelby is a devoted mother who treasures spending quality time with her children. She also enjoys expressing her creativity through drawing and embracing her Italian heritage through her love of cooking. For Shelby, family, tradition, and bringing people together are at the heart of everything she does.
Shelby is proud to be part of Family First Funeral & Cremation Services, where the commitment to treating every family like our own is more than a promise—it's a responsibility she holds close to her heart.
Comfort comes in many forms sometimes, it has four legs, a wagging tail, and a heart full of warmth.
Henry, our beloved service animal, is a 7-year-old Beagle Lab mix whose presence brings quiet reassurance to grieving families. With his soulful eyes and gentle nature, he has a way of sensing when someone needs a moment of peace. Whether he’s offering a comforting nuzzle or simply sitting beside those who need him, Henry reminds us that healing isn’t always found in words—it’s often found in the unwavering companionship of a faithful friend.
Beyond his role as a source of solace, Henry is full of personality. He loves treats (and never misses an opportunity for one!), finds joy in car and boat rides, enjoys a good nap, and thrives on attention from those around him.
His playful spirit and loving nature bring moments of warmth and connection, reminding us that even in difficult times, comfort can be found in the smallest gestures.
