The Meredith Memorial Foundation is a community-focused, 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to honoring LGBTQ+ lives through compassionate remembrance and inclusive celebration. We recognize that family is not solely defined by blood ties but also by intentional connections, deep friendships, and unwavering support. The individuals we honor, our chosen family, were the architects of these vital support
systems, building communities of care and acceptance. They are remembered as sources of strength, joy, and unconditional love by all who were fortunate enough to call them kin, regardless of formal ties. Their legacies are not defined by shared last names but by the indelible mark they left on our hearts and the countless lives they enriched. Memorial displays provide a meaningful and tangible way to honor the life of a loved one while serving as a central point of connection for family and friends. Each display that we create is thoughtfully personalized with photographs, urns, and curated elements that reflect the individual’s life, values, and interests. These services are designed to be inclusive and respectful of all backgrounds, cultures, and belief systems, creating a welcoming environment that supports reflection, remembrance, and emotional healing. Historically, this level of care has not been equitably available to all communities. This has been particularly evident among LGBTQ+ individuals, who have often received fewer supportive services and whose lives were not consistently memorialized with the same level of dignity and recognition. In response, the organization arranges and conducts personalized Celebration of Life displays for LGBTQ+ individuals who pass in hospice care. These complimentary services are specifically designed to honor each life with dignity, especially for those who might otherwise receive minimal or no memorial acknowledgment. For many within the LGBTQ+ community, chosen family is the only family we have. Too often, individuals find themselves alone in hospice without the support of traditional family structures. Our mission is to ensure that no one is left without care, connection, or remembrance during life’s most vulnerable moments. A central part of our work is raising funds to cover 100% of cremation costs for LGBTQ+ individuals that pass in hospice who have no family, which includes unadopted young adults who have aged out of foster care — ensuring that every life is honored with dignity, regardless of circumstance. Our guiding principle is simple: Honoring Lives with Compassionate Remembrance and Inclusive Celebration. We support individuals and their communities by helping them make informed, meaningful decisions when planning end-of-life arrangements. Through our work, we also provide complimentary, personalized Celebration of Life displays for LGBTQ+ individuals who pass in hospice care—creating safe, welcoming spaces where loved ones can gather, share memories, and begin the healing process together. The Meredith Memorial Foundation’s Board of Directors includes Michael Garcia, Diana Welborne, and Joe Meredith. Collectively, they bring more than 40 years of continuous experience in the mortuary industry, providing a strong foundation of knowledge, stability, and professional expertise. Their diverse backgrounds contribute valuable perspective and leadership to the organization’s mission. Joe Meredith serves as Executive Director, overseeing daily operations and program implementation. Based in Houston, Texas, he has established strong relationships with local hospices and remains committed to serving the needs of the Houston area. The work of the Meredith Memorial Foundation extends beyond professional service; it is rooted in a profound sense of purpose and compassion. Many individuals in hospice care experience isolation and diminished support during critical moments of grief and transition. Through its programs and services, the Foundation seeks to restore dignity, foster connection, and provide meaningful support. We invite you to join us in advancing this mission, raising awareness, and helping ensure that every life is honored with compassion, respect, and care.
