Jacob Walsh is a Sixth Year funeral director in the UK. You’ll get a rare behind-the-scenes look at his life as he interacts with the dead. Known for his compassionate approach, Walsh actively shares his experiences on social media, where he engages a growing audience curious about the realities of his profession. As a result, his videos have been highly popular, with one recent video hitting the viral mark and receiving over 30,000 views on Facebook.
Every morning, Walsh starts his work by introducing himself to the dead, a practice that doesn’t come easy but is crucial in his mind. “And I say good morning to them when I come in and goodnight at the end of the day.” He continued to explain that, this practice creates a relationship that Walsh sees as key to his work for both him and the people he serves.
To prevent that, Walsh has made a habit of listening on social media. Each episode, viewers challenge him on the specifics of his work, leading to some truly spirited exchanges. In one of his incredibly educational YouTube videos, he explains exactly what happens to a body after we die. He dives into the physiological changes that occur during this period. He fearlessly tackles subjects that most are interested in but almost no one wants to talk about, like what happens to our bodies after we die.
“If your bladder or bowels are full when you die, you obviously relax when you pass, so it does happen.” – Jacob Walsh
Walsh’s openness to process and discuss these topics has brought him an outpour of gratitude from his viewers. We’ve heard from so many about how thankful they are for his warmth and willingness to have candid conversations about these sometimes-stigmatized topics. Comments on his videos frequently highlight how comforting his demeanor is during a time that can be unsettling for many.
Beyond practical instructions, Walsh invites readers into his singular understanding of death and how he envisioned the afterlife. Professionally, he shares otherworldly adventures from the mortuary. Many a late night, I’m sure I’ve had thousands of fingers prodding my shoulders,” he quips.
“If they’re tapping me on the shoulder, that just reassures me that I must be doing right by them.” – Jacob Walsh
In some of the most creative scenes, Walsh often imprisons himself in one-sided conversations with the dead. He says that at the heart of his work, these interactions have become pivotal. He gets comfort by talking with the people he is sending on their last trip. When I do traditional shaving with gentlemen, I tell them, ‘Listen, we’re just going to get you under the chin or fix your eyebrows up a little bit. Here’s an example of how I infuse personality, even when executing the most sensitive of tasks.
It’s not surprising that Walsh’s efforts to demystify the funeral industry have resonated with millions. His videos are both an educational resource and a source of solace for those coming to terms with loss. For him, his work as a funeral director isn’t just a job. It is a vocation replete with empathy and profound regard for the deceased.
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