My name is Lisa Turnbow, and I founded Graceful Departures with a heartfelt mission: to provide compassionate, personalized support to families as they navigate the emotional journey of saying goodbye to a loved one. With years of experience in funeral coordination and a deep respect for the traditions and unique wishes of each family, I strive to create meaningful, dignified celebrations of life that honor those who have passed.

My inspiration for starting this business came from personal loss—losing several close family members and friends. During the process of grieving and planning multiple funerals, my family and I experienced the emotional and financial strain that often comes with traditional funeral services. We were frequently taken advantage of by funeral homes and mortuaries through overpriced items and unnecessary costs.

Through these difficult experiences, I learned how to research, purchase, and even create many of the essential products and services that are typically marked up by funeral homes. This approach has allowed me to celebrate loved ones at a reasonable cost, without any sacrifice in quality or care.

I currently hold a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership and a Master’s degree in Public Administration. Over the past 20 years, I have coordinated end-of-life services with compassion, organization, and an unwavering commitment to integrity. These experiences have given me the confidence to share what I’ve learned—helping families honor their loved ones while saving money and making informed decisions.

At Graceful Departures, I lead with both heart and faith. I believe it’s possible to provide beautiful, respectful services without compromising my values or the trust of the families I serve. I’m here to help you create a farewell that truly reflects the life, love, and legacy of someone dear.