Thursday, he prepared the parlor room. Friday, he choreographed afternoon and evening visitations. They said it was the most fish he ever caught, so let him have them. Mills wants to be the funeral home's familiar face, so he positions himself at the door to help mourners with their coats. A blue-collar crowd, only a few wear dresses or suits.
Mills strives to be an extraordinary funeral director.
He's trying to make a name for himself, a name Lorain can trust, during his one-year apprenticeship. If he can't own a home in 10 years, he wants to manage one. Like many young morticians, Mills talks of undertaking as a calling, akin to joining the clergy. But if Mills were a priest, he would surely shepherd a large flock. His dedication and enthusiasm recall a young Orson Welles.