Official website of the Ohio Embalmers Association
Meet the Speakers
Dr. Linda Spurlock is a biological anthropologist who received her training at Kent State University and North Eastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine (NEOUCOM). She teaches Anatomy and Physiology at Stark State College, in North Canton. She specializes in forensic facial reconstruction art and scientific illustration.
Matt Smith’s creativity
in developing new techniques and his 13 years of experience and
confidence has made him a highly sought embalmer and lecturer.
His step-by-step lectures generally begin with stunned audience faces
as he shows his first slide, usually a highly advanced decomposition
case or severe trauma. After a few pointers on what to do first,
the process unfolds as Matt shares photo-documentation of his most
challenging cases. His passion and confidence have helped him in
discovering new and effective procedures. Recent lectures include
“Embalming the Severed Case” addressed to the Michigan
Embalmers Society.
Matt, a 1994 graduate of the John A. Gupton College of Mortuary Science, has embalmed over 7,200 cases and embalms for 15 funeral homes in his local area. He lectures at several Mortuary Schools across the country including Wayne State University, University of Arkansas - Hope, New York's Nassau Community College, Sacramento's American Rivers College and several others. Matt is also a restorative expert. He has developed methods of tissue filling and mouth closure tactics effective in recreating the subtle contours and features unique to each person. He has eliminated the grimace and pucker that occasionally accompany standard methods of feature setting and consistently creates pleasant, symmetrical expressions that become the foundation for a family’s healthy grief. Thomas Lynch, noted author and funeral director, relies on Matt’s expertise at Lynch and Sons Funeral Directors. “Matt Smith is a true professional, an embalmer of great talent who combines technical proficiency and true compassion,” says Lynch of Matt. “He serves the living by caring for the dead.”
The arts of preservation and restoration entail more than dynamic embalming fluid. Skillful embalming techniques and product knowledge are required to harness the potential of the embalmer’s resources. This letter marks the beginning of quarterly installments of tips and tricks for embalmers offered by Matt. He is excited to share his in-depth knowledge and help embalmers learn new skills. Matt is also available 24/7 to answer questions, consult, or compare notes. We hope funeral directors everywhere take advantage of this opportunity to consult with one of the greats.