End-of-Life Work Is Women’s Work… And It Always Has Been.
The Women in End-of-Life Professions Information Hub
Women have long been the quiet backbone of end-of-life care. From nursing the dying, comforting the grieving, and managing the logistics of death, to nearly everything else in between. Yet, for much of modern history, their labor has been undervalued or invisible. Today, women continue to claim their place in the field, not just as caregivers but as funeral directors, death doulas, hospice leaders, and legal advocates.
This page honors the women who came before us, those serving now, and those who will shape the future of end-of-life professions long in the future.
“This profession is missing out on the valuable perspectives and talents of women essential for its future growth and success.”
Lisa Baue, Founder and CEO of Funeral Women Lead
What Roles Can Women Have in End-of-Life Professions?
Any of them. (Pretty straightforward, isn't it?)
Spotlights: Women at the Center of End-of-Life Work
Meet some of the women who are redefining what end-of-life work looks like, one role, one family, and one legacy at a time. From leaders and changemakers in funeral service to up and coming professionals, we're honored to spotlight their accomplishments.
Know a woman in the industry doing work that deserves a spotlight? Want to share your own story? We’d love to hear from you. Use the form at the bottom of this Information Hub to connect with us.
Scholarships and Mentorships
Getting into this field isn’t always easy... but there are doors worth knocking on. In addition to our Scholarships For End-of-Life Professions Information Hub, here’s a roundup of scholarships, grants, and mentorship opportunities created to help women step into their calling and lead the next generation.
Do you know of a scholarship or mentorship program that's not included below? Let us know via the form at the bottom of this Information Hub.
NFDA Professional Women's Conference Scholarships
- Location: Brookfield, WI
- Phone: (262) 789-1880
- Email: info@nfda.org
- Website: www.nfda.org
- Amount: Covers conference registration, event fees, a three-night hotel stay, and up to $500 in travel reimbursement
- Eligibility: Female and non-binary funeral professionals and students employed in funeral service or enrolled in an accredited funeral service program.
100 Black Women of Funeral Service Scholarship
- Location: Atlanta, GA
- Phone: (404) 255-0099
- Email: info@100bwfs.org
- Website: www.100bwfs.org
- Amount: Varies
- Eligibility: U.S. residents, community college sophomores seeking certification or an associate degree in mortuary science, and affiliated with a funeral home. Preference is given to African American women.
Women-Led Organizations, Industry Networks, & Initiatives
Want to connect with other women in the field? These organizations, alliances, and networks offer community, resources, and advocacy for women working across the end-of-life space.
Know of an organization that deserves inclusion? We’d love to hear from you. Use the form at the bottom of this Information Hub to connect with us.
1. Funeral Women Lead
Founder: Lisa Baue
Description: Funeral Women Lead was born out of Lisa Baue’s vision to expand the possibilities for women in the death care profession to build community and receive support, mentoring, and training as they become leaders.
Website: funeralwomenlead.org
2. National Funeral Directors & Morticians Association (NFDMA) Ladies Auxiliary
Description: The National Funeral Directors and Morticians Association, Inc. has a rich history that spans across a century. Originally organized in 1924 as the Independent National Funeral Directors Association, under the leadership of R. R. Reed, it was established by a group of licensed funeral directors who aimed to maintain high professional standards for the betterment of the public and their own business community. While they had initially collaborated with the National Business League, it became evident that their full potential could only be realized through an association solely focused on the funeral industry.
Website: www.nfdma.com/about-us/ladies-auxiliary
3. NFDA Professional Women's Conference
Description: This event is designed specifically for female and non-binary funeral professionals, providing a platform for networking, education, and personal growth. The conference features sessions on leadership, self-care, and industry-specific challenges, aiming to equip attendees with tools to thrive in their careers.
Website: nfda.org/conferences/professional-womens-conference
4. Black Women of Funeral Service (legacy initiative)
Location: Atlanta, GA
Description: Founded to support, mentor, and uplift African American women in funeral service through scholarships, networking, and education.
Website: www.100bwfs.org
5. Women in Funeral Service (Legacy Initiative)
Status: Currently inactive, but their mission and network are still relevant.
Archived Site: www.omeninfuneralservice.com
Barriers & Breakthroughs
It’s not all smooth sailing. From pay gaps to underrepresentation in leadership roles, women still face real challenges in many corners of the end-of-life industry. But they’re also breaking records, earning recognition, and changing culture from the inside out.
But Things Are Looking Better...
1. Increasing Female Representation in Funeral Services
The funeral industry is witnessing a significant influx of women. In 2021, women constituted 72% of enrollees in funeral service education programs, with particularly high representation among minority groups. Funeral Home Consulting
2. Women Leading Change in Deathcare
Women are not only entering the field but also driving innovation. Organizations like the Death Care Collective are empowering female leaders through mentorship and networking, fostering a more inclusive industry culture. homesteaderslife.com
3. Dominance in Home Health and Personal Care
Women dominate roles in home health and personal care, comprising 87% and 80% of these workforces, respectively. Their contributions are vital to the provision of compassionate end-of-life care. Bureau of Labor Statistics
How to Get Involved
Thinking about stepping into one of these professions? Whether you’re mid-career, making a switch, or just getting started, we’ve pulled together training programs, volunteer opportunities, and entry points you can explore right now.
1. Explore Career Paths
Learn about roles in hospice, palliative care, funeral service, death doula work, and grief support. Start here: Careers in End-of-Life Professions
2. Find Training and Certification Programs
Whether you’re interested in becoming a doula, funeral director, or grief counselor, there are organizations ready to train and support you. Check out our Certifications & Licenses Hub
3. Apply for Scholarships
We’ve compiled a list of scholarships specifically for women and underrepresented groups in this space. View Scholarships
4. Join a Community or Network
Connect with others doing this work through women-led organizations and professional networks. Tip: Funeral Women Lead is a great place to start.
5. Nominate Someone for a Spotlight
Know a woman making waves in end-of-life care? Nominate her to be featured on this page by filling out the form below.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website and by Buried in Work is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Please consult with a qualified attorney or subject matter expert for advice specific to your situation.