On Monday, January 19, 2026, a very cold day, the Daviess County CEO class visited Ed Lee Mortuary and engaged in conversation with owner Andy Arvin. The experience offered a distinctive glimpse into the funeral service profession and even included a surprise breakfast. Andy highlighted a growing need for more licensed morticians in the area.
“As a society, we need closure,” Andy noted, emphasizing funeral services’ vital role in supporting the grieving process. He also pointed out that the industry is not one-size-fits-all, since each family’s needs are unique. Know your limitations—yours are different from others.
Andy shared several valuable business insights, touching on topics such as identity theft, credit reporting, personal character, and creative problem-solving. He stressed the importance of commitment, saying, “If you make a commitment, stick to it.” A memorable line from Andy that resonated with the group was, “You get old too soon and wise too late!”
Throughout the discussion, Andy reiterated the essential need for morticians in society. Beyond professional duties, funeral service providers play a critical role in helping families navigate the delicate process of saying goodbye.
He also encouraged the CEO class to support local businesses, reinforcing the value of keeping money circulating within the community. “Keep the money in the circle as long as you can,” he advised, advocating for local economic growth and sustainability.
Andy shared his personal journey into the funeral service industry, revealing that he chose this path later in life. His story illustrated the many paths that can lead to a meaningful and fulfilling career.
Additionally, Andy walked the cohort through the embalming process and the array of decisions families face when organizing final arrangements. This hands-on walk through gave students valuable insights into the thoughtful and meticulous nature of funeral services.
Thank you to Andy for sharing his time, insights, and experiences with the Daviess County CEO class.