DINWIDDIE – Shirley P. Johnson-Pryor, matriarch of Joseph M. Johnson & Son Funeral Homes in Petersburg and McKenney, was bestowed a prestigious honor on Aug. 7 during the National Funeral Directors and Morticians Association, Inc.'s [NFDMA] 87th Annual National Convention. The event also served as the Association’s centennial celebration.
Johnson-Pryor, a lifelong resident of Dinwiddie County, received the Robert H. Miller Professional of the Year Award, which recognizes someone who exemplifies excellence in funeral service, showcasing leadership, innovation and a deep commitment to community service. At the Centennial Gala held at the Gaylord Hotel in National Harbor, Maryland, Pryor's daughter Mary E. Johnson-Fields presented her mom, a licensed funeral professional, with the award.
"I'm proud to present this award to a woman that all of my life I've tried to emulate, but even if I had another 50 years, I'd never be able to duplicate," Johnson-Fields said.
“This recognition is not just a testament to my work but to the incredible team and support I have around me,” Johnson-Pryor stated upon receiving the award. “I am honored to be part of an association that has been a beacon of support and professionalism in our industry for the last 100 years.”
"Pryor has made significant contributions to the funeral service industry, demonstrating unwavering commitment, compassion and professionalism throughout her career. Her dedication to serving families in their time of need has earned her respect and admiration from peers and clients alike. Her contributions to the association and the broader community have set a benchmark for excellence in the field," NFDMA stated.
The NFDMA centennial celebration highlighted the association's rich history and its ongoing commitment to promoting professionalism and education within the funeral service sector. As part of this milestone event, members gathered to honor achievements, share experiences and look forward to the future of the profession.
"Pryor’s dedication and passion for her work embody the values of the NFDMA, and her recognition as the 2024 Robert H. Miller Professional of the Year serves as an inspiration to all within the industry," NFDMA stated.
In June, William D. Chavis, Brenda K. Ebron-Bonner, Dr. Mark E. Moore, Daniel D. Lee, Casey M. Dooley and W. Kevin Massengill, the Board of Supervisors of Dinwiddie County, recognized Pryor, 81, with a resolution for being named the 2024 Robert H. Miller Professional of the Year.
Joseph M. Johnson & Son Funeral Homes is owned and operated by Johnson-Pryor, Johnson-Fields, Pryor's son Joseph M. Johnson Jr. and Pryor's daughter Chevalia Johnson-Davenport.
For more information about the National Funeral Directors and Morticians Association, Inc., visit nfdma.com . Visit johnsonservices.us to learn more about the family business with four generations who serve the community.
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This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Dinwiddie resident bestowed prestigious honor: Contributions set benchmark for excellence
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