Brookfield, Wis. – The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) is proud to announce that Katey Houston of Return Home in Auburn, Washington, has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 NFDA Inspiration Award. Sponsored by National Guardian Life Insurance Company (NGL), this prestigious award honors an exceptional woman who has made significant contributions to the funeral service profession and beyond. Houston will be presented with the award during the NFDA Professional Women’s Conference, taking place May 15-18, 2025, in Santa Ana Pueblo, New Mexico.

 

With a career defined by innovation, compassion and leadership, Houston has been instrumental in shaping the evolving landscape of funeral service. As a funeral director and care team manager at Return Home, she has played a key role in advancing Natural Organic Reduction (NOR) – a sustainable end-of-life option that transforms human remains into nutrient-rich soil. Through her dedication to educating families, mentoring professionals and advocating for meaningful memorialization, she has set a remarkable example for her peers.

 

“Katey Houston embodies the very essence of this award,” said NFDA CEO Christine Pepper, MBA, CAE. “Her passion, leadership and commitment to serving families with care and dignity are unparalleled. She is also a driving force in educating both funeral professionals and consumers about a greener way to say goodbye. Katey’s work is shaping the future of funeral service, and we are proud to honor her contributions.”

 

Houston’s peers and colleagues have praised her integrity, leadership and vision. One letter of support noted, “Katey embodies the very essence of inspiration in the field of funeral service, pioneering innovative practices, fostering global education on death care and serving as a compassionate mentor to colleagues and grieving families alike. Her remarkable contributions and dedication redefine what it means to provide true care to grieving individuals and families.”

 

Another supporter wrote, “Words fail me in truly expressing all that Katey has done and accomplished during her career in funeral service, but I have seen firsthand the transformational effect she has had. Her leadership, creativity and passion have not only left an indelible mark on everyone affiliated with Return Home but also with client families and funeral professionals throughout our state and on a national level. I have worked with hundreds of funeral professionals throughout my 39-year career in our sacred profession, but there is no one that is more deserving of this recognition than Katey Houston.”

 

Emphasizing the significance of Houston’s achievements, Jennifer Kaset, Vice President, Sales and Business Development at NGL, said, “Katey’s dedication to supporting others during their most difficult time has transformed the way funeral services are provided and inspired a legacy of care, respect and innovative progress. This well-deserved award is a testament to her tireless commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves. NGL is honored to sponsor the NFDA Inspiration Award and recognize all the inspiring women in the funeral profession.”

 

WSFDA President Travis Locke noted, “Katey continues to demonstrate her leadership by taking on extra work with our Board and providing technical assistance to other members.  We are very proud of her receiving this prestigious award.”

 

NFDA congratulates Katey Houston on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to celebrating her achievements at the 2025 NFDA Professional Women’s Conference.

 

For more information about the NFDA Inspiration Award, visit NFDA.org/InspirationAward.