The International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) hosted 120 deathcare professionals in Savannah, Georgia, from October 20–22 for the 2026 ICCFA Fall Leadership Summit at The DeSoto hotel. The annual gathering brought together industry leaders to discuss emerging operational trends, legislative updates, and technology within cemetery, cremation, and funeral services.
Practical Applications of Artificial Intelligence
This year’s programming focused significantly on artificial intelligence and its integration into daily deathcare operations. Technology strategist Caleb Gardner, co-founder of 18 Coffees, delivered the keynote presentation, Human-Centered AI Strategy: Putting AI to Work Without Losing the Personal Touch. Gardner addressed how organizations can use AI to reduce administrative tasks and support staff while maintaining high standards of care. He followed the presentation with an interactive workshop, AI in Practice: Free Your Team for Work That Matters, which provided practical examples of applying AI tools in funeral homes, cemeteries, and crematories.
An attendee noted the practical value of the programming: “I enjoyed the session on AI and the practical session that followed. This is something that we can lean into as a profession and enhance our skill set rather than replace anyone.”
Ethical and Legal Questions Surrounding the Digital Afterlife
Beyond operational efficiency, the Summit addressed the ethical implications of emerging technology. ICCFA President John Bolton, CCE, CCrE, CSE, CXE, of Park Lawn Corporation, moderated a panel titled When AI Keeps Us Connected: The Promise and Perils of Digital Afterlife. The discussion featured Gardner alongside ICCFA General Counsel Poul Lemasters, Esq.; Katherine Ivanova of Pantio; and Dr. Jason Troyer of Healing Path Cemetery.
The panel examined topics including consent, privacy, authenticity, and the potential impact of AI-generated memorials on grieving families. Participants evaluated scenarios involving AI-generated farewell messages, digital recreations of deceased individuals, and data protection considerations.
“Technology is changing our profession, but the importance of human connection remains constant,” said Bolton. “This year’s Summit challenged us to think differently about how we lead, adapt and serve families. By bringing together diverse perspectives and encouraging open conversations about emerging technologies, we’re helping our profession prepare for the future while staying true to the values that define our work.”
Legislative Updates and Professional Recognition
The Summit also featured the Irwin W. Shipper Legislative Session, which reviewed current regulatory and policy issues affecting the sector. Presenters included Mary Beth McGowan of Dykema, Poul Lemasters, and Christine Toson, CCE, of The Tribute Companies Inc.
Additionally, the association formally recognized its 2026 40 Under 40 Award honorees, highlighting emerging leaders and innovative professionals within the industry.
Event attendees also participated in networking sessions across Savannah, including the annual ICCFA Golf Tournament at The Club at Savannah Harbor, a tour of the American Prohibition Museum, and a historic trolley tour.
“The Fall Leadership Summit is about creating an environment where meaningful conversations lead to new ideas, stronger relationships and continued professional growth,” said Nadira Baddeliyanage, ICCFA Executive Director. “This year’s programming demonstrated the importance of embracing innovation while keeping people at the center of everything we do. We’re grateful to our speakers, sponsors, and attendees for making this gathering an opportunity to learn from one another and move our profession forward together.”
Details regarding the 2027 event will be released in the coming months. Additional information about educational programming and upcoming events is available at iccfa.com.
About ICCFA
Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association is the only international trade association representing all segments of the cemetery, cremation, funeral, and memorialization profession. The association is comprised of more than 10,000 rooftop members in the cemetery, funeral home, and crematory industries, as well as supplier and related businesses worldwide.
