With the recent concerns of the COVID-19 virus, we want to remind everyone that public health and sanitation is one of the basic foundations of funeral service and, as such, we must be proactive anytime there is even a hint of danger to the public welfare.

As you are aware, we all find ourselves in extraordinary circumstances, coming together to ensure the health and safety our families, neighbors, and communities as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to escalate.

In response to public health concerns, Governor Bill Lee has issued several executive orders to contain the spread of COVID-19, including, on Tuesday, April 28, 2020, issuing Executive Order No. 30, which allows many Tennesseans to return to work safely while encouraging adherence to health and business operation guidelines. The Order prohibits social gatherings of ten (10) or more people, but expressly states that religious services, rites, funerals and related gatherings are not “social” and thus are not categorically prohibited. This includes memorial events and funeral services, whether held at a funeral establishment, church, cemetery, or other facility.

During this uncertain time we want to continue offering the opportunity to celebrate life. Our mission is to offer families comfort in their time of loss, and provide a platform to honor and celebrate the life of their loved one. This will continue, but we will be vigilant during this unique time. 

When our staff serves your family we will be emphasizing these guidelines:

• We will emphasize to our families how to prevent the spread of COVID-19, such as by staying home if you are sick, washing your hands, and covering coughs and sneezes.
• We will continue to practice the same safe hygiene and sanitary procedures in our funeral home that we always have practiced.
• We will also present different ways to express comfort and love and will try and forego the traditional shaking of hands and hugging.

Despite the concerns associated with COVID-19, we have alternatives we can share with our families that will allow them to celebrate the life of their loved one in ways that promote the safety of all involved. 

Sincerely,

The Staff of Smith-Reagan