Foundation Partners Group, the second-largest funeral home provider in the U.S., has announced a transformational milestone in its growth journey, including new ownership, increased investment in its people and facilities, and a strategic reorganization to strengthen field operations and support care teams, according to a news release.

“These changes are bold by design,” said John D. Smith, CEO of Foundation Partners Group (pictured at top). “They reflect our commitment to operational excellence, a people-first culture, and a unified organization focused on growth and delivering exceptional care to families.”

The news release did not disclose the name(s) of the new ownership.

An FPG spokesperson noted that while the names of the new owners are not being disclosed, the company can confirm that the new ownership consists of “financial investors” and “not anyone in the deathcare industry.”

A Stronger Foundation with Institutional Investors

The company is now backed by institutional investors who share its vision and commitment to the future of funeral care. These investors have committed fresh growth capital—effectively recapitalizing the business with modest leverage and strong liquidity.

“This is a vote of confidence in our team, our strategy and our future,” Smith said. “Our investors believe in what we’re building—and their investment gives us financial flexibility to grow, improve facilities and invest in our people.”

A new board of directors will be announced in the coming weeks.

Organizational Realignment to Empower the Field

To better support the 250+ funeral homes, cremation centers, and cemeteries across 21 states, Foundation Partners is realigning leadership and operations:

  • Execution resources are moving from the Support Center to the field.
  • ‘Centers of Excellence’ are being built within the Support Center to enable field success, and more effectively serve families.
  • Data, analytics and technology are being elevated to drive smarter, faster decision-making and growth.

“As part of this shift, some leaders are transitioning out, and others are stepping into expanded roles,” Smith said. “We thank all those moving on for their contributions and are excited about the next generation of leadership driving performance where it matters most—in service to families.”

Investment in People, Facilities and Service

Smith emphasized that Foundation Partners is entering a new phase focused on organic growth, team development and modernizing infrastructure:

  • Facility upgrades and transportation fleet improvements are underway.
  • Care centers are being enhanced to improve workflow and elevate service and consistency.
  • Investments in training and tools will enable team members to serve with greater pride and effectiveness.

“After years of growth through acquisition, we are now building a high-performing operating company driven by shared values, empowered people and consistent standards of care,” Smith said. “The future is bright—and it starts with our people.”

About Foundation Partners Group

Winter Park, Florida-based Foundation Partners Group is one of the industry’s most innovative providers of funeral services and the second-largest funeral home group in the country based on the number of families served. Foundation Partners owns and operates a network of over 250 funeral homes, cremation centers and cemeteries across 21 states. Our deep understanding of technology and customer experience-centered approach allows us to deliver truly innovative and compassionate care to the families we serve. Visit https://foundationpartners.com  to learn more.

Comments (1)

  • Subject:Strategic Collaboration Opportunity: Transforming Funeral & Cremation Services in Kenya

    Dear sir/madam

    I trust this message finds you well.

    My name is Salmon, a funeral care professional and advocate based in Kenya. I am reaching out to explore the possibility of partnering with you to establish a modern funeral home or cremation facility here in Kenya—a market with significant and growing unmet needs in death care services.

    Across the country, families often face long delays, limited access to professional services, and culturally insensitive practices during their most vulnerable moments. Cremation, in particular, remains vastly underdeveloped despite increasing demand—especially among urban and diaspora populations. The few existing facilities are often overstretched or inaccessible due to high costs or location. As a result, the majority of communities are left with inadequate end-of-life care infrastructure.

    Over the past year, I’ve been actively engaging with policymakers, community leaders, and human rights organizations to advocate for reforms in the funeral sector. My efforts include preparing legislative proposals and pursuing certification to deliver culturally respectful services, including Janaza (Islamic funeral rites), that are affordable, dignified, and aligned with family and spiritual values.

    Your leadership and expertise in the funeral industry could bring not only technical innovation but also renewed trust in a sector that urgently needs it. Together, we could establish a facility grounded in both global best practices and deep local understanding serving not just as a business, but a model of ethical and compassionate care.

    If this opportunity resonates with your values or professional goals, I would welcome the chance to discuss further at your convenience—whether virtually or in person.

    Thank you for considering this vision. I look forward to hearing from you.

    Warm regards,
    Salmon Mbori
    +254799308664

    Salmon Mbori | August 5, 2025 at 6:30 pm
    Reply

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