John A. Gupton College

Earn 5 in-person CEUs - Approved by the State of Tennessee.

Join us for "Evolving Traditions" presented by John Phifer, Executive Director of Larkspur Conservation.

Visit our website for full details and registration. Please visit www.guptoncollege.edu to pre-register and pay BEFORE Monday, June 22, 2026 to secure your spot!

Have you ever heard of mourning jewelry?

Throughout history, clothing and “mourning jewelry” became methods of remembering and honoring the life of loved ones.

Examples of mourning jewelry can be found throughout early history, yet it became popularized in the Victorian era when Queen Victoria, as she grieved the loss of her beloved husband King Albert, wore black for the rest of her life as a symbol of her mourning and devotion. Inspired by her display, the use of clothing and mourning jewelry became increasingly popular throughout the United Kingdom.

Mourning Jewelry was also popular during the American Civil War. Examples include mourning scarf pins, pictures of soldiers placed in lockets and the center of broaches, or even woven hair.
A more modern approach in present day funeral service includes incorporating the ashes of loved ones into rings and necklaces. Mourning jewelry is not simply a piece of jewelry. Though not a new concept, it has remained a symbol of the love and memories shared with our loved ones, allowing us to keep them close even after they are gone.

A huge thank-you to 1996 Gupton graduate Jantry Shupe for treating our on-campus students to a delicious pizza lunch last week. We’re grateful for his generosity and love seeing alumni supporting the next generation of Gupton students!

Daniel Christensen, a 2000 graduate of Gupton College, was honored by the Indiana Funeral Directors Association with the Award of Excellence and recognition as a Lifetime Isaac Ball Fellow. Mr. Christensen owns and operates funeral homes in Seymour, Scottsburg, Brownstown, and Columbus, Indiana.
We are proud to celebrate the accomplishments of Gupton College graduates and are especially pleased that President Spann had the opportunity to recognize and support one of our distinguished alumni!

Mark your calendars! 🗓️ John A. Gupton College's 2026 Alumni Reunion will be held August 7-8 in Nashville, TN.
For details, please visit guptonalumni.com/reunion/ or visit our Linktree.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Please join us in congratulating our very own Dr. Tracy Allen on being installed as President of the Tennessee Funeral Supply Sales Club!

Dr. Allen is only the third woman to serve as President in the association's history as well as the first individual to hold the title of "Dr." while serving in this role.
As part of the installation ceremony, Dr. Allen had the honor of presenting outgoing President Jay Slatton, a 2001 graduate of Gupton College, with an appreciation plaque in recognition of his outstanding leadership, dedication, and support of the Sales Club during his tenure.

Pictured in the final photo is Danny Hurt, an honorary alumnus of Gupton College and the Secretary/Treasurer of the Sales Club.
We are proud to see Dr. Allen continue to represent Gupton College through her leadership and service to the funeral profession!

Students from John A. Gupton College attended the 123rd Annual Convention of the TFDA-Tennessee Funeral Directors Association in Chattanooga!

The College provided transportation for students enrolled in the Marketing class, as well as any other students interested in attending the convention. The day began with lunch at Honey Seed, where students were joined by faculty members and representatives from the National Funeral Directors Association. The convention was held at the Chattanooga Marriott Downtown, giving students the opportunity to attend a variety of professional seminars and explore the exhibit hall.

Throughout the event, students connected with industry professionals, examined the latest hearse models and funeral service products, and gained valuable insight into current trends and innovations in the profession!

Earn 5 in-person CEUs - pending approval.

Join us for "Evolving Traditions" presented by John Phifer, Executive Director of Larkspur Conservation.
Visit our website for full details and registration. Please visit www.guptoncollege.edu to pre-register and pay BEFORE Monday, June 22, 2026 to secure your spot!

Tennessee State Funeral Directors and Morticians Association is recognizing Chris Jefferson as Professional of the Year at the 104th annual TSFD&MA meeting in Nashville. John A. Gupton College is proud to recognize Chris as a staff member and an alumnus of Gupton College!
For information or to purchase tickets to the TSFD&MA banquet, please visit https://tennesseesfdma.org/