MONROVIA, MD – Thacker Caskets held its 2025 National Sales Meeting from April 20–23, 2026, in Florence, Alabama, bringing together its sales team for education, recognition, and an inside look at the company’s manufacturing operations.
During the meeting, Thacker recognized outstanding achievements among its Sales Consultants, with Erik Varnum, Sales Consultant for Southern Alabama, the Florida Panhandle, and Western Georgia, receiving the company’s highest sales honor, 2025 Salesperson of the Year.
“Erik joined Thacker Caskets in 2022, stepping into a relatively new territory and quickly making it his own,” said Paul Graham, National Sales Director. “Since then, he has continued to exceed our expectations, substantially growing Thacker’s presence in his region through the meaningful relationships he has built with the funeral homes he serves. We are truly fortunate to have Erik on our team, and we are grateful to have him and his family as part of the Thacker family.”
The annual meeting featured targeted educational training presentations led by Thacker’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Danielle Thacker, National Sales Director Paul Graham, Sales Directors Bucky Stevens, John Copper, Craig Lahti, and Tim Rahnis, as well as a special presentation from Vice President of Manufacturing Justin Thacker and Plant Manager Mike McKinley.
“At Thacker, we take tremendous pride in our Alabama manufacturing facility,” said Justin Thacker, Vice President of Manufacturing. “As the most vertically integrated casket manufacturer in North America, we maintain full control over quality, innovation, and efficiency throughout our process. Our annual sales meeting provided a valuable opportunity to showcase the product enhancements we have recently implemented, as well as the continuous improvement initiatives currently underway.”
A highlight of this year’s meeting was a tour of Thacker’s manufacturing plant in Florence. Team members were shown the casket production process, from pressing the casket shells to final painting, interior installation, and inspection. They were also given the unique opportunity to create their own casket from start to finish.
“After visiting the manufacturing plant, I feel equipped with a whole new perspective to bring to my funeral directors,” said Seth Colin, Sales Consultant for Northern Mississippi.
Later that evening, Thacker hosted its Sales Awards Banquet at the Pickett on Court in Florence. Erik Varnum was presented with the 2025 Salesperson of the Year award in recognition of his exceptional performance, dedication, and service to the funeral homes in his territory.
“In an industry experiencing constant change, two things remain the same, the commitment of funeral professionals to the families they serve, and their need for quality products at a fair price backed by exceptional service,” said Varnum. “I’m grateful to be part of a team that never loses sight of those values. Whether you’re a customer or an employee, it’s a great time to be with Thacker Caskets.”
In addition to the Salesperson of the Year award, Thacker honored several Sales Consultants for their performance during 2025. Will Drew, Sales Consultant for Northern Georgia, received the 2025 Spear Award, presented to the runner-up for Sales Consultant of the Year. Tim Rahnis, Sales Director based in Monrovia, Maryland, received the 2025 Elevation Award, an award given for exceptional performance within your first two years with Thacker. Bren Miller, Sales Consultant for Southern Mississippi and Eastern Louisiana, received the Unparalleled Positivity Award for his can-do attitude and ability to consistently find the bright side.
Thacker also recognized three Sales Consultants for their years of dedicated service. Bob Cullen, Sales Consultant for New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, was honored for 35 years with Thacker Caskets. Will Drew was also recognized for 10 years of service, while David Moore, Sales Consultant for Eastern Kentucky and Southern Ohio, was honored for 5 years with Thacker Caskets.
About Thacker Caskets:
Founded in 1939, Thacker Caskets is the largest family-owned funeral supply company in the United States. With a focus on quality, affordability, and exceptional customer service, Thacker’s mission is to be the most trusted funeral supplier by providing honest products, at an honest price, with honest service. To learn more, please visit www.thackercaskets.com.
