By Mark Jenkins, Preferred Cremation & Burial
As our nation pauses to honor the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces, Preferred Cremation & Burial proudly celebrates the veterans who continue to serve—this time, within our own community.
“Veterans make great employees,” says Mark Jenkins, owner of Preferred Cremation & Burial and a proud U.S. Navy veteran. “Leadership, experience, commitment, and focus—these are just a few adjectives that describe the phenomenal work ethic veterans bring to the workforce.”
After years of service, many veterans face challenges transitioning back into civilian life. Hiring them, Jenkins says, is both an act of gratitude and a smart business decision. Veterans possess a deep sense of discipline, teamwork, and organization instilled through their military service. These qualities translate seamlessly into any workplace, from technical expertise to leadership and mentoring.
Jenkins’ own story reflects that transition. A former Hospital Corpsman (HM3) in the United States Navy, he learned to care for fallen service members with dignity and respect—skills that would later inspire his life’s work.
“I took that training from the military and transformed it into this company,” Jenkins explains. “I’m proud to be a veteran, and I’ll always honor all veterans and thank them for their service. But I’m especially proud of the team of veterans who make Preferred Cremation & Burial what it is today.”
A Team Built on Service and Honor
Christopher Jefferson, a decorated U.S. Navy veteran, now serves as the company’s digital and technical specialist. His background as a Yeoman (YN3) equipped him with strong administrative and organizational skills, which he has since expanded into managing the funeral home’s technology, social media, and internal systems.
“Christopher’s leadership and attention to detail keep our operations running smoothly,” Jenkins notes. “His military discipline and problem-solving mindset are invaluable.”
James Kelly, a retired HT1 Navy veteran, plays a crucial role in managing heavy equipment and operating the company’s cutting-edge alkaline hydrolysis (aquamation) machine—technology that sets Preferred Cremation & Burial apart as one of the few funeral homes with a dedicated pet division. His technical precision ensures the facility maintains the highest standards of care and innovation.
“HT1 Kelly’s expertise has allowed us to expand and maintain our state-of-the-art services,” Jenkins says with pride.
Rounding out the team is Wendell Trent, a retired ENC (SW/DV) Navy diver whose career spanned over two decades. Trent’s service included recovery missions in catastrophic events, such as the Swissair Flight 111 disaster off the coast of Nova Scotia. Today, he channels that same compassion and dedication into overseeing the funeral home’s logistics—ensuring every loved one is cared for with dignity from arrival to final arrangements.
“Wendell’s attention to detail and empathy are unmatched,” Jenkins says. “He brings every family the comfort of knowing their loved one is in the best hands possible.”
A Lasting Legacy of Service
For Jenkins and his team, honoring veterans is not just about words—it’s about action. Preferred Cremation & Burial remains committed to hiring, supporting, and recognizing those who have served. “Our veterans continue their service every day,” Jenkins concludes. “They bring honor, discipline, and compassion into everything they do. On this Veterans Day, and every day, we salute them.”
