Our Evolving Rituals Around Death

Death rituals take different forms from what we would call a standard funeral. Cultures honor the lives of those who have passed away in diverse ways. Sometimes services depend on spiritual beliefs and practices. Other times, the service or remembering is held long after the honoree has transitioned.

On this episode, we dive into the history of death and burial in the south, explore what some would call uncommon death rituals and perhaps broaden our perspective on how we can honor the dead.

But first, we talk to artist Ndume Olatushani about his current mixed media exhibit at American Baptist College focusing on lynching.

This episode was produced by Tasha A.F. Lemley.

Guests:


Ndume Olatushani, artist and activist
Dr. Kris McCusker, MTSU Professor, Oral Historian, and author of Just Enough to Put Him Away Decent
T.J. Broady, Funeral Director, Terrell Broady Funeral Home
John Christian Phifer, Director, Larkspur Conservation
Jamie Seals, Hospice Chaplain, Aveanna


Hear an intimate story at Larkspur Conservation in this piece.
Learn more about Ndume in this article from Nashville Scene.