AFDA Annual Convention
CONNECTION. COLLABORATION. CELEBRATION.
AFDA Annual Convention
March 7, 2025
The Graduate, Fayetteville
The Arkansas Funeral Directors Association is composed of the professional men and women across the state serving in the funeral industry. The association’s mission is to inspire excellence in service to funeral professionals providing industry support, government advocacy, public relations, and best practices to the association’s members. Their annual convention, held every spring, was held at the Embassy Suites in Hot Springs. The day included continuing education, a keynote speaker, and a reception at Selected Funeral & Life Insurance Company in Hot Springs.
Recipients of the awards include The Mosley Family of Proctor Funeral Home, Robert W. Eichelberger, Jr., Boyd Heath and Douglas Hawkins. The recipients were honored for the contributions to the funeral industry in Arkansas and services to their communities.
“This year’s award winners are particularly impressive. Combined, they’ve served the state in the funeral profession for over 190 years,” said David Tucker, AFDA Board President. “It was an honor for the Arkansas Funeral Directors Association and the AFDA Board to recognize their accomplishments in this way.”
2025 Award Winners
We had the absolute honor of recognizing several incredible Arkansans at our awards banquet! Combined, this group has served the state in the funeral profession for over 130 years. Please help us congratulate this year’s award winners!
- Hall of Fame Award: Bruce Smithson
- Hall of Fame Award: Charley Farmer (1933-2021)
- Funeral Director of the Year: Donald Martin
Why the AFDA Conventions Cannot Be Missed!
Unite as a Force for Good
Experience the strength and solidarity of belonging to a passionate community dedicated to serving others. Network with colleagues from across the state, sharing experiences and fostering lasting connections.
Ignite your professional journey
Gain valuable insights and knowledge from industry experts through engaging workshops, thought-provoking sessions, and discussions with industry leaders. Discover the latest trends and best practices to elevate your services and operations.
Find inspiration and rejuvenation
Let the convention be your annual reset. Reconnect with your purpose, find fresh perspectives, and leave feeling empowered and revitalized to face the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Celebrate at our Awards Banquet
Whether you’re a local family-owned funeral home or part of a larger group, join our showpiece Awards Banquet where we celebrate our members’ achievements, welcome our new Hall of Fame inductees, and announce the Funeral Director of the Year. Don’t miss it!
Unforgettable memories
Beyond the educational sessions, the convention offers social events and networking opportunities. Let your hair down at the drinks reception, celebrate at the banquet, and build lasting bonds with colleagues you can turn to for support and guidance throughout the year.
More Than Just an Event, It’s a Movement
Being part of the AFDA Annual Convention is about being part of something bigger than yourself. It’s about contributing to a community that stands united in its mission to serve families with compassion, dignity, and excellence. It’s about leaving a lasting impact and shaping the future of the funeral service industry together.
Thank you to our 2024 Sponsors!
Selected Funeral & Life Insurance Company
