Houser-Millard Funeral Directors
Six honorees that are leaving their mark on Jefferson City
While it may only take one person to make a difference, Jefferson City Magazine recognizes six individuals and entities that are making substantial impacts in the lives of many. With their generosity and diligence, this group makes it their mission to put others before themselves, despite their already busy schedules. Not only have they given back to their community with enthusiasm, they are a privilege to work with and lead others by example. With this recognition, this set of six can now join their fellow Impact JCMO honorees in making Jefferson City a more beautiful place to live.
Reid Millard truly knows the power of community. When he was about 5 years old, his aunt and uncle died, and his parents took in his cousins. A year later, Reid’s father was disabled. They faced difficult times, but his Ohio community offered a helping hand by providing financial support to the family. As the owner of Houser-Millard Funeral Directors, Reid’s goal is to now support his fellow community.
“I recognize that it was very nice for our (Ohio) community to support us during a time of need,” Reid says. “Now that I’m able to give back, it’s a lot more rewarding to give back than to receive anything.”
Named the Most Impactful JCMO Philanthropic Company, Houser-Millard Funeral Directors (part of the Millard Funeral Chapels, Inc.) has about 30 employees that you can routinely see volunteering at local fundraisers for churches and organizations like Downtown Jefferson City and Special Olympics Missouri. The funeral home is also passionate about donating to entities like the United Way andRed Cross. On average, Houser-Millard Funeral Directors dedicates its time to engage with 2-3 community events every week. One nonprofit that Reid finds particularly meaningful is the Sheltered Workshop thatHouser-Millard Funeral Directors help host at Apple Creek Farm in Centertown. For nearly 30 years, Reid and the funeral home have sup-ported an array of activities like hayrides, horseback riding, bingo, and a barbecue picnic for Sheltered Workshop employees and their families.
“We try to be good stewards in the community where we live. I really feel like true charity is when you help out somebody knowing that you’re getting nothing in return.”
Reid emphasizes that everyone should try to give back to their community — whether that be by volunteering their time and skills or donating to a cause. As someone in the funeral industry, Reid knows that losing a loved one can be overwhelming and can lead to some people feeling lost. Reid uplifts those who have lost a loved one and suggests volunteering or donating to a cause in honor of those family membersand friends.
“I think when you go through a loss, going out to volunteer for an organization and putting some effort forward in memory of your love done can be a great therapy.”
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