Welcome to the NYSFDA Board: Nicholas DeCelle!

Nicholas DeCelle, Region 5 Director (pictured above; left)

What led you to choose a career in funeral service?

I grew up around funeral service. However, I had all intentions of being a teacher. I ended up working in college athletic administration for a few years. My father and his business partners needed some help, and I decided to move home to be around my family and work with my father. That was about 15 years ago. However, before my grandmother passed away, she would say she always knew I would end up a funeral director.

When did you begin your career in funeral service?

I had grown up around it. I started helping when I was in graduate school, usually home on breaks (2008-2010). Then I started on a more permanent basis in 2011.

What is your favorite part of the job? 

I enjoy working hard with my co-workers and enjoying their company. I consider them all part of my family.

What part of the job gives you the most satisfaction?

I appreciate the stories I hear about what so many families and older generations have overcome. I think that is really humbling and puts today's work into perspective.

What characteristics do you believe make for a good funeral director?

You need to be empathetic and patient. However, I also think you need to have a great support system around you of your own family. Without that it can make being a funeral director seem impossible.

What has being a funeral director taught you about life?

We have a saying where I work that "we are all on borrowed time." You can live the safest, healthiest, and best life possible, but you never really know what can happen. So, I try to be understanding of every situation and appreciate the good and the bad times.

Why did you first join NYSFDA and what prompted you to seek a leadership position?

I wanted to be a part of the future of the profession. Just like in so many other fields, the landscape is changing. I want to help ensure that our license stays strong and protected and provide opportunities for future generations to be a successful funeral director and provide for their communities. I think what we do is extremely important yet sometimes overlooked.