ANNOUNCEMENT

A new generation takes the lead at Humphreys’ Funeral Home

A generation later, David and Barb are now looking back at a fulfilling career as they pass the torch onto new professional leadership. Effective July 1, André Le Clair became the owner and managing funeral director at Humphreys’. 

No stranger to the community, André and his wife Chelsea arrived in St. Stephen in 2021 when he accepted a position working as a funeral director with David. Now, after four busy years working together in the growing business, the two are exchanging roles.

Not quite ready for retirement but seeking a lighter load of responsibilities and a little more leisure time to be spent with family, David made the decision over the past year that André was the right person to take the reins. “It didn’t take long after André settled in to see the signs,” said David. “I knew he would fit in the community and care for our families. We’ve been talking about transition for a while, and the time was right. I have every confidence that he’s ready to take the lead and I’m happy to make the change now while I can continue supporting him.”

For his part André says he is grateful for the opportunity and for David’s mentorship which he says has prepared him for the next chapter. “David and Barb have set a great example of the professional dedication and community focus that are essential to this job, and David’s knowledge and experience have allowed me to learn the ropes and come into this role well prepared.”
Both men offered assurances that the community should have no concerns about the transition. “It’s business as usual,” said André. “We work well together so things have gone very smoothly. While we’ve been trading a few hats, nothing here has changed as far as the families are concerned.” The change in ownership has had no effect on existing prearrangements on file with the funeral home, or any prefunding that was previously put in place. Everything is secure and guarantees remain in place.

David and Barb Humphreys have plans to slow down a bit but no intention of leaving their adopted community. “St. Stephen is home,” and Abbey and, now, two grandchildren are nearby. David will continue as an active funeral director at Humphreys’ and assumes the role of the firm’s preplanning specialist, drawing on almost 40 years’ experience to help other families make their own future plans.