Selected Independent Funeral Homes Names 2026 NextGen Professional of the Year
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — Jan. 31, 2026 — Selected Independent Funeral Homes named David Mayne Root of Pierson’s Funeral Service, Ltd., in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, as the 2026 NextGen Professional of the Year at the 2026 NextGen Seminar. The award recognizes the career achievements, leadership, and community involvement of funeral professionals under the age of 50.
“About 16 years ago was my first NextGen Seminar,” said David Mayne Root. “That was the first exposure I had with Selected and with the NextGen Community and what it really meant to be a part of groups that work in funeral service. I’m so grateful to be a part of such a wonderful profession and to be amongst such wonderful people. I’m honored to be the award recipient this year.”
As General Manager at Pierson’s Funeral Service, David has expanded product offerings, improved scheduling procedures, enhanced technology use, and played a key role in updating the General Price List. His leadership continues to raise the standard of service for families and the profession.
David is deeply engaged in professional and community service. He has served in numerous leadership roles within the Alberta Funeral Service Association, including President from 2023–2025, and has contributed to Mount Royal University’s Funeral Director & Embalmer Advisory Board since 2007. He is also an instructor in the university’s Funeral Director and Embalmer Program. His volunteer work includes long-standing involvement with the Calgary Stampede Parade Committee and his local church community.
“David is a shining example of servant leadership,” said Selected Board Chair and Award Panel Judge Christopher Waite of Waite Funeral Homes. “He is deeply committed to his family’s company, his community, and our profession at-large.”
David grew up immersed in funeral service, just steps away from his family’s funeral home, with his mother running the family flower shop in the same building. Though neither of his parents were funeral directors or embalmers, he was raised with the values, purpose, and quiet dignity that define the profession. During high school, he cared for the funeral home grounds, demonstrating a strong work ethic and attention to detail that would carry through his career.
After serving a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in California, David returned to Calgary and began working part-time at the funeral home while pursuing his college studies. His dedication quickly became evident, and he has since distinguished himself as a skilled embalmer, compassionate funeral director, and respected organizational leader.
Selected Independent Funeral Homes created the NextGen Professional of the Year Award to highlight the achievements of young funeral professionals and to recognize their contributions to the profession and their communities. The award is presented annually at the NextGen Seminar, which provides educational and networking opportunities for emerging leaders in funeral service. The 2026 seminar was held in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where attendees came together to gain skills, strategies and connections to lead their firms and grow their careers.
About Selected Independent Funeral Homes
Selected Independent Funeral Homes was originally founded in 1917 as National Selected Morticians when a group of forward-thinking funeral professionals met to discuss a shared vision to advance independent funeral service. Selected delivers innovative and pertinent resources, solutions, and ongoing support necessary for enduring excellence to its international network of independently owned death care providers who aspire to be the very best in their profession. Members operate according to specific standards and best practices to provide the public with reliable, high-quality funeral services and information.
About the NextGen Community
The NextGen Community was created to develop young funeral professionals and support those new to the profession. The program offers networking, mentorship, and professional development opportunities through conferences, seminars, and leadership training.
