Matt Smith, Embalmer, Consultant, Expert, Lecturer

Imagine the worst embalming case – severe trauma, a rampant infectious disease – so overwhelming it’s difficult to even begin. Perhaps a serious overbite makes feature setting nearly impossible. How often does the average embalmer face such challenges? The best way to learn new tricks for helping overcome such difficulties is through interacting with other good embalmers. Talented embalmer and restorative artist, Matt Smith, embalms difficult cases every day. In fact, he not only consults funeral homes through the country on everything from AIDS to severed cases, but also travels the states as a lecturer on embalming and restorative arts.

Matt Smith’s creativity in developing new techniques and his 15 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. Other speaking engagements include the American Society of Embalmers, where he spoke with noted author and embalming authority Robert Mayer.

Matt, a 1994 graduate of the John A. Gupton College of Mortuary Science, has embalmed over 7,800 cases and embalms for 15 funeral homes in his local area. He lectures at the Wayne Statue University School of Mortuary Science and trains student embalmers. His scope, however, is far broader than local. He shares his experience with embalmers and students everywhere.

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. 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.