Earning a Missouri funeral director’s license marked a milestone for a Richmond resident, who offered a closer look at what goes into becoming a funeral director and serving families through funeral service.

Ashlee Willim-Kirkham shared insight on the planning, coordination and support funeral directors provide to help families through some of life’s most difficult moments.

Although Kirkham grew up in a funeral home family and had years of experience working alongside grieving families, earning her license required more than simply working in the profession. Already holding a bachelor’s degree, the Missouri State Board allowed direct entry into an apprenticeship under a licensed funeral director rather than returning to school specifically for funeral service.

Her apprenticeship was completed under the supervision of her father, an experience she said made the process especially meaningful, and required her to meet state requirements that included examinations, required coursework when ap…