Employment History:
Licensed Funeral Director, Angelus Funeral Home; Mental Health Counselor, Los Angeles County Women's Jail (1991-1999); Emergency Room Nurse (1982-1988); Clinical Medical Records Director (1960-1979); Contract Mental Health Services Manager

Published Works:

Public Speaking Experience:

Why F is an Expert:
I consider myself an expert in funeral direction because it is what I continue to do; it is also the area in which I am current

Best Advice:
Understand your own emotions and intentions for helping and you will be exposed to uncontrollable situations, but you yourself have to be the stabilizer in those situations.

Passionate about:
I’m passionate about my own family and two granddaughters.

Biography Excerpt:
Throughout her storied life, Barbara Jane McNeil-Thompson has taken on a handful of occupations, all centered on providing compassionate care and healing. In 40 years, she has experienced much as a registered nurse, a mental health counselor at the Los Angeles County Women’s Jail and in her current position as a licensed funeral director at Angelus Funeral Home. The most gratifying aspect of Mr. McNeil-Thompson’s career is providing comfort to grieving families, an extension of her selfless compassion, moral work ethics and high standards. In fact, her behavior and perspectives are based on the following quote, penned by the Christian theologian John Wesley: “Do all the good you can, By all the means you can, In all the ways you can, In all the places you can, At all the times you can, To all the people you can, As long as ever you can.”

     

Cambridge Who's Who: What makes you a valuable resource in your industry?  
BARBARA JANE MCNEIL-THOMPSON :  I keep on top of any new approaches to the industry. My partners and I talk about how to handle certain situations when we are out on a service. I attend the association meetings and see what’s going on.

What is the most significant issue facing your profession today?
I think that cost is a big issue. The cost has increased tremendously and we face families who just don’t have that kind of money and who have not prepared for that devastating event in their life. People can just not accept the fact that their loved ones may pass away at any time.

Who have been your mentors or people who have greatly influenced you?
Years ago, I was influenced by Mrs. Townsend, who was the first black nurse to graduate from the Los Angeles County Hospital School of Nursing [now Los Angeles County College of Nursing and Allied Health]. She was so sharp and she looked so beautiful in her white coat; I admired her. I was very impressed by her and her husband. My parents, who were teachers and my grandparents, inspired me as well.