Till Death Do Us Part: How One Couple Balances a Mortuary Business and Marriage

The mortuary business isn't for everyone. However, for Harry W. Greer and his wife Valerie Crithfield Greer, they have grown to love it.

Married for 25 years, they local couple went into business together when both lost their jobs in 2008. They received the license to open Alameda Funeral & Cremation Services in July 2012 and had a ribbon cutting that following October.

Valerie had a sales background in car dealerships while Harry had been working in mortuaries most of his life. He was previously with Greer Family Mortuary until it was bought out by a corporation.

"I was born into the business," he said.

Though the name remains, Harry said he and his family are not affiliated with it.

Their new building, located at 1415 Oak St., was previously a mortuary about 25 years ago. It was then transformed into a church, and now, back to a mortuary.

The couple is still in the process of expanding to include a renovated parking lot, a reception area and a casket display room.

From the antique furniture to the 1920s wood floors, the space shares a warm inviting feel with visitors.

"We want it to look homey," Valerie said.

However, most are drawn to Sophia, the couple's sweet, lovable resident therapy dog that is always up for comforting guests.

Together 24/7

Despite spending practically all day together — at work and then at home — the couple still enjoys each other's company. 

According to Valerie, their skills compliment one another when it comes to working as a team. She usually takes care of details while Harry handles the technicalities.

"We take turns being the boss," Valerie said.

Though they work seven days a week, when they do get some free time with the help of part-time employees, they choose to spend it on the greens with one another.

"We do golf together when we can sneak away," Harry said.

A lot of their business comes from their Greek Orthodox Church, repeat business and recommendations through word-of-mouth.

Both have spent many years in Alameda and say they are thrilled to be back in business on the island.

"It's not all about the business and a facility," Valerie said. "It's about the community."

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