compassionate professionals

Our Staff

Our compassionate team, rooted in the local community, is dedicated to providing unwavering support and guidance during difficult times and ensuring that every detail is handled with the utmost care, professionalism, and respect. We help families honor their loved ones with dignity and peace of mind.


A fountain in a park with palm trees in the background

Our Values

At our core, we value putting family first, ensuring that every decision is made with their needs and well-being in mind. We are committed to compassion and integrity, providing honest support and heartfelt care during difficult times.

A black heart icon on a white background.

Family First

We believe families experiencing a loss are our number one priority.

Hand holding a heart.

Compassion

Our staff offers compassionate support while guiding families through loss.

Badge with a shield and checkmark, signifying quality or approval.

Integrity

Our staff shows integrity by handling every detail with honesty and respect.

Staff Photo

Daniel L. Briggs, CFSP

President

Daniel L. Briggs, CFSP, has grown up in the family businesses and was named President in 2019. He is a 1996 graduate of Wake Forest University with a degree in Business Administration and graduated with honors from Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service in 1997. He received his funeral service license in 1998 and has been designated as a Certified Funeral Service Practitioner by the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice.

Dan has long been active civically in Lexington and his state. He currently serves on the North Carolina Works Commission after his appointment from Gov. Roy Cooper in 2022. He was also appointed to the North Carolina Social Services Commission where he served from 2018-2023. He served on the Davidson County Board of Social Services for two terms, where he served as Chairman.

He also serves on the Board of Directors for the American Children's Home, Uptown Lexington Inc, a NC Main Street Program, Lexington Medical Center Foundation and Friends of the Lexington Library, where he serves as Vice-President. Dan also recently served on the Triad North Carolina Leadership Forum in 2022.

Governor Bev Perdue appointed Dan as one of three members of the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission, where he served from 2011-2013. He has served on the Lexington City School Board and is a former Chairman of the Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce. He also served on the board of directors for Wake Forest Baptist Health-Lexington Medical Center, The Life Center of Davidson County, the Lexington Area Community Foundation, and Pastor's Pantry, where he served as President. He is a past Chairman of the Board of Trustees of First United Methodist Church in Lexington, a past President of the Central Carolina Civitan Club, a past President of the Lexington Jaycees and was named one of five "Outstanding Young North Carolinians" by the North Carolina Jaycees in 2003.

Dan is a member of the National Funeral Directors Association, where he serves on the Member Resources Committee and the North Carolina Funeral Directors Association.

He and his wife, Laurie, are members of Grace Episcopal Church in Lexington, They have three daughters and a son and live in historic Uptown Lexington.

Staff Photo

Matthew R. Jernigan

Vice President

Matthew's journey in the family business is a testament to his dedication and passion for serving others. Beginning his career in funeral service while still in high school, Matthew's early exposure to the industry laid the foundation for his future endeavors.

After graduating from West Davidson High School in 2008, Matthew pursued further education at Fayetteville Technical Community College, earning both a diploma in Funeral Service Education and a degree in business management. His commitment to professional development culminated in obtaining his NC Funeral Directors Licenses in 2014.

Matthew serves as the Vice-President of Piedmont Funeral Home, a position he assumed in 2020 following the passing of his grandfather, Larry D. Morrison. His leadership within the family business showcases his dedication to upholding its legacy of compassionate service.

Outside of work, Matthew is an active member of Two Cities Church in Winston Salem, where he serves as a community group leader. His involvement in church activities reflects his values of faith and community.

Matthew's commitment to service extends beyond the professional realm. As an Eagle Scout, he embodies the principles of leadership, service, and outdoor stewardship. His love for the outdoors is evident in his hobbies of hunting, fishing, and coaching his sons' sports teams.

Overall, Matthew's journey underscores his multifaceted commitment to family, faith, and community. His leadership within the family business, coupled with his dedication to serving others, leaves a lasting impact on those he encounters.

Staff Photo

Jack D. Briggs

Former Co-Owner (Deceased)

Jack D. Briggs served as Secretary of the company. He began working in the summer of 1959 for the late C. C. Hoover who owned and operated a funeral home and furniture store in Denton, NC. He attended Mars Hill College and has a B. S. Degree in Business from High Point College and was licensed by the N C. State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors in 1965. He was a past president of the North Carolina Funeral Directors Association and served as the North Carolina Policy Board member on the National Funeral Directors Association for 3 years. He was a past president and former member of the North Carolina Board of Funeral Service. Mr. Briggs had long been active in the civic, political and religious life of the area. He served 20 years including 12 as chairman of the Davidson County Board of Education. He was a past Governor of Lions International. He was a member of the Denton Lions Club and the Lexington Kiwanis Club. In may 2015 Jack rotated off the board of directors of First Bancorp, a bank holding company, after 39 years service. He and his family owned or co-owned several other funeral homes in the piedmont and sandhills area of the state. He was married to Joan Carroll Briggs who is a licensed funeral director. In October 2012, Governor Beverly Perdue presented the Order of The Longleaf Pine award to Jack for his years of service to North Carolina They had 2 children, Daniel and Jodie and 4 grandchildren.

Staff Photo

Joan Carroll Briggs

Treasurer

Joan C. Briggs serves as treasurer of Piedmont Funeral Home, Inc. She is a graduate of Appalachian State University and was a public school Librarian until she obtained her funeral directors license in 1989. In addition to her work as a corporate officer and funeral director, she serves as the unofficial decorator for the funeral homes. Joan lives with her husband Jack in Denton and has served on numerous civic boards. She is an active member of Central United Methodist Church.

Staff Photo

Larry D. Morrison

Former Co-Owner (Deceased)

Larry D. Morrison's legacy in funeral service and his contributions to his community are remarkable. Beginning his career at Piedmont Funeral Home in Lexington as a teenager, Larry's early experiences laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to serving others.

His commitment to professional development led him to Guilford Technical Community College, where he became the first licensed paramedic in Davidson County, showcasing his commitment to emergency medical services. Later, Larry pursued formal education in funeral service at Gupton-Jones College, where he excelled academically and served as a leader within his academic community.

Larry's impact extended beyond his professional achievements. As President of Piedmont Funeral Home, Inc., he played a pivotal role in returning the business to local ownership, ensuring its continued commitment to serving families with compassion and integrity.

Active in professional organizations, Larry served in leadership roles within the NC Funeral Directors Association and the NC Cremation Association, demonstrating his dedication to advancing the industry and upholding its standards of excellence.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Larry was passionate about the outdoors, particularly hunting, and was instrumental in promoting safety through his role as the first Hunter Safety instructor in Davidson County.

Above all, Larry's greatest joy was spending time with his family on their farm. His love for his family and his commitment to serving his community leave a lasting legacy of compassion, integrity, and service. Larry's impact will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Staff Photo

Stan York

Embalmer/Funeral Director

Stanley C. York's extensive experience and dedication to funeral service make him a valuable member of the Piedmont Funeral Home staff. Joining the team in July 2010 as an embalmer and funeral director, Stanley's career spans several decades, rooted in his early experiences working with the late Robert Ridge at Ridge Funeral Home in Asheboro.

A native of Randolph County, Stanley's commitment to funeral service began early in his life. He pursued formal education in mortuary science at the Dallas Institute of Mortuary Science, graduating in 1975. Since then, he has been licensed by the NC Board of Funeral Service, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to upholding industry standards.

Stanley's dedication to his profession is evident in his continued service and his ongoing pursuit of excellence. His role as an embalmer and funeral director allows him to provide compassionate care and support to families during their time of need.

Outside of work, Stanley resides in Lexington with his wife, where they enjoy spending time together. His commitment to his family and his community reflects his values of love, compassion, and service.

Overall, Stanley C. York's contributions to Piedmont Funeral Home and his years of experience in funeral service exemplify his dedication to serving others with integrity and compassion. His presence brings comfort and reassurance to grieving families during one of life's most challenging moments.

Staff Photo

Jamie Davis

Office Administrator

Jamie Davis serves as the Office Administrator at Piedmont Funeral Home, bringing with her a wealth of experience working with bereaved families. With a background as an assistant to Pastoral Ministries in a hospital setting, Jamie has developed a deep understanding of the needs of grieving families and the compassion required to support them.

As a dedicated and skilled administrator, Jamie assists with a wide range of tasks, including handling death certificates, data entry, financials, and more. Her expertise and caring nature make her a valuable addition to our team, and we are grateful for the warmth and professionalism she brings to Piedmont Funeral Home.

Staff Photo

Tom Ramsey

Staff

Tom's long-standing commitment to Piedmont Funeral Home is a testament to his dedication and loyalty. Employed part-time since 1999, Tom's tenure with the funeral home spans decades, reflecting his deep connection to the organization and its mission.

As a longtime resident of Lexington, Tom's roots in the community run deep. His familiarity with the area and his understanding of the needs of local families make him a trusted and valued member of the Piedmont team.

In his role at Piedmont Funeral Home, Tom contributes to the smooth operation of the facility and provides support to grieving families during their time of need. His experience and compassion make him an invaluable asset to the team.

Overall, Tom's longstanding tenure and his commitment to serving his community underscore his dedication to Piedmont Funeral Home and its mission of providing compassionate care to families in their time of need. His presence brings comfort and reassurance to those he serves, embodying the spirit of compassion and support that defines Piedmont Funeral Home.

Staff Photo

Jerry Phelps

Former Staff Member

Jerry's presence at Piedmont Funeral Home was more than just that of a colleague; he was a cherished staple of the organization. His steadfast dedication and unwavering commitment to serving families for 38 years made him an integral part of the Piedmont family.

As a staple at Piedmont, Jerry's presence was felt by colleagues and families alike. His kindness, compassion, and expertise were constants in the day-to-day operations of the funeral home, providing comfort and support to all who crossed his path.

While Jerry may no longer be with us in person, his memory continues to be a guiding light for Piedmont Funeral Home. His legacy of service and compassion lives on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him, and his contributions to the organization will be forever cherished.