On September 8, on what would have been Peggy Ann Deyak Forlenza’s 61st birthday, her family returned to Miami Dade College North Campus to dedicate a practical gift in her memory: a commercial mortuary lift for the Funeral Service Education program where she studied. Nearly three years after her passing on October 6, 2023, the donation provides future students with mechanical handling equipment while honoring a woman who once shared their educational journey.
Peggy enrolled at Miami Dade College following years of experience in retail and medical office management, finding her calling in funeral service. She earned her Associate of Science in Funeral Service Education in the summer of 2021. Dr. Tanya Scotece, the program’s coordinator and Associate Professor Senior, remembers Peggy as an inspiring student who consistently encouraged and uplifted her classmates.
The family donated an Ultimate 1000 Lift mounted to The Ceiling-less Gantry System, manufactured by Mortuary Lift Company in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. A commemorative plaque donated by Blake Swinford of Trigard Memorials accompanies the equipment, featuring Peggy’s photograph, her lifespan (September 8, 1965 – October 6, 2023), and the inscription: “May Her Calling Continue to Lift Future Professionals.”
A Practical Gift Rooted in Student Experience
For Peggy’s daughter, Faith Forlenza, the equipment selection reflects her mother’s real-world concerns as a student. Faith recalled that while Peggy was comfortable with embalming and theory exams, she expressed anxiety about the physical demands of manual lifting. At the time, Faith was studying to become a neonatal intensive care nurse, creating a unique bond between mother and daughter around the shared importance of dignity in care.
During the dedication, Dr. Scotece shared a personal element with the family: the funeral tribute Peggy had created for herself during her Thanatology coursework. Prepared during her studies, the assignment provided a meaningful connection to Peggy’s perspective on the profession. In her student writing during the COVID-19 pandemic, Peggy advocated for virtual funerals, delayed celebrations of life, and the role of funeral directors as celebrants to help families navigate loss.
Enhancing Hands-On Training for Future Professionals
Miami Dade College’s Funeral Service Education program serves more than 100 students. Prior to the donation, coursework relied primarily on manual handling. The Ultimate 1000 Lift system offers mechanical assistance for lifting decedents and caskets, dressing, and casket placement, reducing physical strain while reinforcing preparation room standards. Featuring a 1,000-pound capacity and a portable, height-adjustable gantry, the setup accommodates learning environments where ceiling installations are not viable.
This installation marks the first time Mortuary Lift Company has had a lift dedicated in memory of a graduate and donated directly by the family to an educational institution. Katie Hill, President of Mortuary Lift Company, noted that with women comprising 72% of incoming funeral service professionals, mechanical handling resources help remove physical barriers so students can focus on compassionate care. Mortuary Lift Company representatives Brenda Stratton and Erin Connolly also assisted in facilitating the project.
A Lasting Legacy of Service
Peggy Deyak Forlenza was a mother of four whose community contributions extended well beyond her professional life. In addition to managing a medical office, she managed the gift shop at St. Andrew Roman Catholic Church, facilitated Emmaus retreats, and earned the First Class Girl Scout award as a lifetime member.
Faith Forlenza emphasized that the family chose a functional donation rather than a purely symbolic gesture to ensure students feel confident and prepared. Through this contribution, Peggy’s commitment to supporting her peers continues for upcoming generations of funeral service professionals.
To learn more about Miami Dade College’s Funeral Service Education program or opportunities to support its students, visit www.mdc.edu or contact Dr. Scotece at tsscotese@mdc.edu. For additional details on The Ultimate 1000 Lift and The Ceiling-less Aluminum Gantry, visit www.mortuarylift.com.
