Telegram - Serving Metropolitan Detroit Since 1944

Losing a loved one can be one of the most challenging experiences in life. There is no way to physically or emotionally prepare for that day and time. It is an experience that many of us will have to learn how to deal with, when that time comes.

So, where do you begin after someone passes?

Funerals are recognized rituals for the living to show their respect for the dead and to help survivors begin the grieving process. During the process, it's normal to feel a sense of apprehension, uncertainty, fear and nervousness. Often times, it is the first step in the healing process. By contacting the funeral home, they will be able to help you coordinate the arrangements of your loved one.

In Detroit and River Rouge, MI, there is "A New Generation of Caring" says, Funeral Director, Charli Rose of the Andrews Funeral Homes. As a 2nd generation director, she recently stepped into her role during the height of the pandemic. Charli Rose is no stranger to the area. She is a Detroit native,graduate of DePorres High School and Wayne State University. She also holds a Master's degree in Forensics Psychology.

Andrews Funeral Homes has been servicing Detroit residents for more than 20 years under the past leadership of Terrance Andrews and his wife, the late Mrs. Denyse Andrews. Funeral Director, Charli Rose, is familiar with the family business because, she was inspired and she started her training at the age of 18 under the watchful eye of Mr. Terrance Andrews.

The city of Detroit has a long history of family-owned funeral homes. When asked about her new role, Charli Rose gave the Telegram News insight on what it feels like to be a 2nd generation funeral director.

Charli said, "With the passing of Mrs. Andrews and grieving myself, it's been a journey. However, being able to help families in need, it's been a humbling experience. I took over in the midst of COVID andI had to jump in and get started, all while being pregnant. The workload had tripled because of the number of deaths from Covid-19."

Clifton: How has the funeral business changed during the pandemic?

Funeral Director Charli: We had to learn how to pivot, at the beginning of the pandemic, people weren't able to visit their loved ones. We had to try and honor their life in various ways, (i.e., zoom, memorials, memorials in the park and outdoor funerals.)

Clifton: What makes Andrews Funeral Home special or set apart from the others in the city?

Funeral Director Charli: Our care towards family and their loved ones. I am with the family from beginning to end. I am the embalmer and the director, so I pay special attention to details and the conversation that I have with the loved ones, to meet their expectations. Terrance Andrews the founder, is who inspired me since I was 18 and taught me to treat every deceased person as though they are my family member. He also taught me to take my time and to value the deceased person.

Clifton: As far as funeral planning goes, is it important to have a plan before you pass away?

Funeral Director Charli: Having a plan is important because, it helps to ease the burden. If you know the financial part is taken care of, the grieving process can begin. It's also important that someone knows the details of those plans, so that your final wishes can be carried out.

Charli Rose - the new Funeral Director at the River Rouge location of Andrews Funeral Homes

Clifton: If anyone is in need of funeral arrangements, how can they reach you?

Funeral Director Charli: They can head to our website at AndrewFuneralHomes.com or visit us at either of our locations, 12809 Rosa Parks Blvd., Detroit, MI, or at 282 Visger Rd., River Rouge, MI 48218.

When you find yourself at this stage in life, it's important to understand that there are many options available to you and your loved one. Having the right plan in place and choosing a funeral home that suits your needs, is a must. The funeral director will educate you on the options available to you, so that an informed decision can be made based upon your needs, budget and the life of your loved one. For more information, give Andrews Funeral Homes a call at 313-868-4075 or 313-382-2800.