By Nila Harris
For Funeral Director and Embalmer Kevin Barnard, 2023 has been a busy year. He received his funeral director’s license in January. He completed his associate degree from John A. Gupton College in Nashville and graduated in April. And he completed the requirements for his embalming license in August. Plus, he had to study for and take his National Boards.
To add to the mix, Barnard had two weddings—his daughter’s and his own. Barnard accomplished all this while working full-time for Woodhead Funeral Home, serving on the school board, and being active with his church and family. But anyone who is acquainted with Barnard, knows that he accomplished all this with determination and a smile on his face.
Barnard, former preacher at Powersville Christian Church for 10 years, was familiar with the Woodhead family and staff, because his family had used the funeral home on different occasions. As a clergy, Barnard had performed funerals there too. When Funeral Director and Embalmer Randy Wells had some health issues, Barnard began helping at Woodhead. Through conversations with Mary Woodhead Hillenmeyer, Barnard decided to pursue his funeral director’s license. Over the one and a half years’ apprenticeship working with Wells, Barnard developed a friendship with Wells, who first did cases with Barnard, then eventually allowed him to do things on his own.
And the rest, they say, is history.