OUR STAFF

Our Valued Staff

Helping families create lasting legacies is more than a job — it's our calling. We are here to support you in any way we can and will offer you the full attention, knowledge, and compassion you need.

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Casey L. Music

Owner, Funeral Director/Embalmer

Casey L. Music, a native of Lakeland, Georgia, grew up with his parents, Dub and Wilma Music, following the early guidance of his mother, Judy Music. A graduate of Lanier County High School, Casey followed his passion for funeral service by attending the Gupton-Jones School of Funeral Service, where he was honored with the Richard Stewart Memorial Scholarship.

Casey began his career in the funeral service industry in 1995, continuing the legacy of his grandfather and father. He is an active member of the National Funeral Directors Association, Lakeland Masonic Lodge #434, and Azalea Lodge #716.

Casey and his wife, Brooke Dean Music, reside in Lake Park, Georgia. They are proud parents of two daughters: Kaytibeth, a student at the University of North Florida Funeral School, and Aubrey, a freshman business major at the University of North Georgia. Their family also includes their beloved pets: Ginger, Remi, Lucy, and Maxine.

In his free time, Casey enjoys attending Enoch Creek Church in Lake Park, relaxing on the beach, and boating at Mexico Beach. He finds joy in the simple moments of life and treasures the time spent with family and friends.

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Brooke Music

Casey's Wife

Brooke Music, devoted wife of Casey Music, has stood faithfully by his side since their marriage in 2002. Her journey in the funeral service industry began in 1996, reflecting nearly three decades of dedication and professionalism.
A native of Valdosta, Georgia, Brooke was raised in Lake Park—a place she and Casey proudly call home today. As the daughter of Larry and Beth Dean, she holds strong roots within the community. Brooke graduated from Lowndes High School and went on to achieve academic success at Valdosta State University.
Together, Brooke and Casey are the proud parents of Kaytibeth and Aubrey. She deeply values family time, whether it’s spent boating on peaceful lakes or relaxing along the shores of Mexico Beach—moments she holds close to her heart.
Outside of her professional and family life, Brooke shares a special bond with their four cherished pets: Ginger, Lucy, Remi, and Maxine. Known for her warm smile and uplifting spirit, Brooke brings light and kindness to those around her, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she meets.

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Lee Music

Senior Funeral Director/Embalmer, Manager

Lee Music was born in Valdosta, GA, and raised in the close-knit community of Lakeland, GA—where he still proudly resides today. A son of Dub and Wilma Music, Lee graduated from Lanier County High School in 2012 and went on to earn his associate degree in Mortuary Science from Ogeechee Technical College in Statesboro, GA. He is also a proud alumnus of Georgia Military College, where he deepened his commitment to discipline and service.

Since 2012, Lee has been a full-time licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer with Music Funeral Services. Known for his dedication and professionalism, he has earned the trust of countless families by providing compassionate care and expert guidance during their most difficult times. His strong work ethic and leadership qualities make him a valued team leader and an effective manager within the organization.

Lee is a devoted husband to April Browning, and together they are raising their son, Glyndon “Thomas” Music. They eagerly anticipate the arrival of their second child at the end of this year, continuing to build a life rooted in faith, love, and community.

Outside of his profession, Lee is an avid outdoorsman who finds peace and balance in hunting, fishing, and connecting with the natural world. Yet, his greatest joy comes from spending time with his family. The Music family worships together at TruthPoint Church in Lakeland, GA, where their faith continues to guide and strengthen them.

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Patches Phillips

Senior Funeral Director/Embalmer, Manager of Care Center

Patches Phillips, a proud native of Naylor, GA, boasts an extensive tenure as a Funeral Director, harnessing his expertise over many years. His professional journey has seen various turns, initially gracing the halls of Music Funeral Services in his youth before venturing into the realm of banking, where he made a substantial impact for several years. However, fate led him back to his true calling, and in 2021, Patches returned to the funeral home, reinstating his association on a part-time basis, eventually transitioning to a full-time role as of August 1, 2022.

Patches serves as the Manager of the Care Center at both of our locations, but his true calling lies in his work as an embalmer. It’s in this role that his heart and talent truly shine. With unwavering dedication and deep compassion, he pours himself into every detail, taking immense pride in knowing that each family sees not just their loved one—but the full measure of his care, respect, and passion in every final touch.

Beyond his commitments to funeral services, Patches has served Lanier County for over 25 years as the Coroner and Deputy Coroner, illustrating his steadfast dedication to public service. Additionally, he is a US Army Veteran, having served in both Desert Storm and Desert Shield wars. His personal life is enriched by his marriage to Jane and their two beloved children, Isabella and Garrett.

Patches' unwavering support for the sporting fabric of Lanier County is unparalleled. He invests considerable time backing various athletic programs within the Lanier County schools, often traveling out of town to lend his support to multiple Lanier County athletic events. At the helm of the Lanier County Basketball Boosters, Patches assumes the role of President, channeling his passion for sports into enhancing the local basketball community.

Amidst his professional and community engagements, Patches finds excitement in the great outdoors. An ardent hunter, he embraces the thrill of hunting both deer and birds, immersing himself in nature's rhythms.

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Cole Tucker

Funeral Director/Embalmer, Cremation Manager

In 2019, Cole Tucker began his journey with Music Funeral Services as a Funeral Service Apprentice, where he discovered a deep passion for supporting families during their most vulnerable moments. Committed to expanding his knowledge and skills, he attended Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service, proudly earning his Funeral Director and Embalmer licenses in May 2023.

In addition to his work with families, Cole plays a vital role in overseeing crematory operations. He ensures that each cremation is carried out with the highest standards of dignity, care, and professionalism—values that align with Music’s commitment to exceptional cremation services and the expectations of the families they serve.

Cole marked a joyful milestone in his personal life when he married his wife, Kaytlin, on December 2, 2023. Originally from Hahira, Georgia, Cole now lives in Lakeland with Kaytlin. Together, they share their home and their hearts with their beloved dog, Gunner.

Outside of his professional life, he enjoys a wide range of creative pursuits. A gifted entertainer, Cole expresses his talents through ventriloquism, playing guitar and piano, and singing.

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Janet Newton

Office Manager

Since 2012, Janet Newton has been the heart of our office, guiding the daily operations of both our Lakeland and Valdosta locations with grace and compassion. Her dedication goes far beyond routine logistics—Janet plays an essential role in managing insurance documents, death certificates, expenses, and accounts receivable. A true jack of all trades, she brings a steady hand and a caring spirit to everything she does.

A lifelong resident of Hahira, Janet, was born and raised in this close-knit community by her loving parents, Johnny and Rudine Vickers. She is a proud graduate of Lowndes High School, where she forged lifelong friendships that remain dear to her heart.

Outside the office, Janet’s world revolves around her family. She is a devoted mother to her two daughters, Alexis McCullough and Logan Newton, and a doting grandmother to Adalyn and Jake McCullough. Whether she's relaxing by the ocean, discovering new places, or simply enjoying time with her loved ones, Janet lives each day with warmth, gratitude, and a deep love for those around her.

Her kindness touches everyone she meets, making her not only an invaluable team member but also a true blessing to all who know her.

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Alan Leonard

Funeral Assistant

Alan Leonard became a valued member of the Music Funeral Services team when he joined as a full-time employee in December 2016. A longtime resident of Lake Park, GA since 1971, Alan is a graduate of Lowndes High School. He now resides in Echols County, where he remains deeply involved in serving the local community.

Alan’s dedication to public service is well established. He has served as the Coroner of Echols County since 2008, demonstrating both leadership and commitment. In 2012, he was elected as the Region 5 District Director for the Georgia Coroner’s Association, representing and supporting 31 counties across southwest Georgia.

Now in the "empty nest" stage of life, Alan proudly raised three daughters. His oldest, Emily, works for the State of Georgia in Atlanta. Sarah, one of his twin daughters, is studying at the University of Georgia in Athens. Kaelyn, her twin, lives in Lake City, balancing work with online studies at Valdosta State University.

Through these family transitions, Alan remains a devoted member of Enoch Creek Community Church in Echols County, where he finds strength, faith, and fellowship. As his daughters pursue their own journeys, Alan continues to nurture his commitment to both his community and his faith.

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Kaytibeth Music

Funeral Apprentice

Kaytibeth Music, better known as “KB”, born in Valdosta, Georgia to Brooke and Casey Music. She is a Valwood School graduate, Class of 2023.

Growing up alongside her brother, Aubrey, Kaytibeth discovered the true meaning of sibling bond.

Kaytibeth enjoys working, helping families, and most of all spending time with her friends and family. Her favorite getaway destination is Mexico beach with her family.

With a steadfast determination to follow in her father's footsteps, Kaytibeth set her sights on a career in mortuary science. Even as a teenager, she displayed a mature understanding of the importance of compassion and professionalism in such a delicate field. Her aspirations led her to pursue higher education, where she enrolled in a rigorous program to obtain her associate degree in Mortuary Science.

Kaytibeth carries within her a profound sense of purpose to be the guiding light for families during their darkest hours. As she walks alongside grieving families, Kaytibeth's presence brings comfort and reassurance, offering a beacon of hope amidst the shadows of loss.

With empathy as her compass and kindness as her language, she listens with an open heart, offering support and understanding without judgment or reservation.

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Cheyenne Cucurullo

Administrative and Funeral Assistant

Cheyenne Cucurullo started her journey in the funeral home business back in her home state of Mississippi where she developed her skills and passion for helping families in their most difficult times. Through the military, she and her husband moved to the great state of Georgia where she found Music Funeral Services in hopes to continue her service to families.

Cheyenne handles the tasks of answering phones, putting together memorial packages, completing obituaries and keeping the office running smoothly. She brings a warm and professional air into the building, being one of the first faces you see walking in.

Her commitment to excellence means she meets challenges head-on, finding practical and compassionate solutions to ensure everything continues smoothly and respectfully.

In her spare time, she enjoys reading, baking, playing pickleball and cheering on her husband at the slow pitch games on base.

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Janice Harnage

Administrative Assistant

Since 1992, Janice Harnage has been a steadfast cornerstone of Music Funeral Services, faithfully serving the Lakeland office with unwavering dedication. Her depth of experience and exceptional knowledge have been instrumental in ensuring the office operates at peak efficiency. Simply put, the seamless functioning of our Lakeland location would not be possible without her tireless contributions.

Guests and callers to the funeral home are consistently met with Janice’s warm, welcoming presence—a reflection of her genuine desire to help and comfort others. A true Lakeland native, Janice was born and raised in the community by her parents, Lossie and Ava Nell (Browning) Miller, who lovingly brought up 11 children. From them, she inherited a deep sense of family values and a strong commitment to community.

Following her retirement from the Lanier County School System in 2011, Janice has continued to be a respected and devoted member of Little Block Holiness Church. Her late husband, Russell Harnage, who served at Music Funeral Services since 1988, shared her commitment to service until his passing in 1998 after seven years of marriage. Together, they left a legacy within the organization.

Janice finds immense fulfillment in her family. She is the proud mother of Lisa Johnson, grandmother to Matthew and Dillon Parker, and great-grandmother to Jaxon, Noah, Beau, Wyatt, Charles, Memphis, and Cammie Parker. Outside of work and family, she enjoys reading and finds surprising joy in the simple pleasure of ironing—a testament to her appreciation for care and detail in all things.

Janice Harnage is far more than a valued team member—she is the embodiment of dedication, compassion, and community spirit. Her presence enriches not only our workplace but the lives of all who know her.

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Paula Sheffield

Preneed Specialist

Paula Sheffield has been an integral part of our team since 2012. Her unwavering dedication stems from a profound desire to assist individuals in planning for the future, alleviating their families from the weight of arrangements after their passing. Beyond her role, Paula serves as a licensed insurance agent, a crucial asset in guiding individuals through the intricate financial facets of preplanning.

Raised in a military family, Paula's life has been a mosaic of diverse experiences, having traversed the globe during her upbringing. Among the places she called home, Germany holds a special place in her heart, being where she completed her high school education. Following her studies at Middle Georgia College, she settled in Valdosta, drawn by the proximity to her family and eventually marrying Larry Sheffield, a fellow military serviceman. Together, they embarked on a journey that saw them stationed across various international destinations, contributing their skills to both the Departments of Defense and Justice. Upon retiring from their service, they returned to Valdosta.

The cherished union of Paula and Larry bore fruit in the form of their daughter, April, who currently resides in Florida with her husband, Chris. The passing of Larry in 2020, after 41 years of marriage, marked a poignant moment for Paula. However, she fervently advocates that their decision to make prearrangements stood as one of their wisest choices. Honoring Larry's wishes brought solace during a challenging period, as the process unfolded seamlessly.

Paula's first-hand experience underscores the importance of preplanning and the peace it brings during trying times. Her empathy, fortified by personal experience, allows her to guide others through similar journeys with compassion and expertise.

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Kyle Roberts

Part Time Funeral Apprentice

Born and raised in Valdosta, Georgia, Kyle Roberts is the son of John Roberts and Kyla Padgett. He is a dedicated and compassionate individual who is currently gaining hands-on experience in the funeral profession as a funeral apprentice.

Kyle is committed to advancing his career by pursuing an associate’s degree in Mortuary Science. He is deeply devoted to serving families with empathy, respect, and professionalism during some of life’s most difficult moments.

Outside of his professional role, Kyle enjoys riding motorcycles, dining out, and spending time with friends and loved ones. His genuine passion for the funeral service and his desire to support others continue to guide his journey in the industry.

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Tommy Strom

Part Time Funeral Director/Embalmer

Tommy Strom is a seasoned and compassionate Funeral Director who has dedicated many years to the profession, bringing a wealth of experience to our team. He and his beloved wife, Gwen, make their home in Lake Park, where they’ve built a life centered on faith, family, and service. Together, they take great pride in their son and daughter-in-law and find endless joy in their two wonderful granddaughters.

Tommy proudly served in the United States Army National Guard, a reflection of his deep commitment to service and country. Following his military service, he enjoyed a fulfilling 27-year career in the parts department at Langdale Ford Company before retiring.

In retirement, Tommy and Gwen embrace the open road, often exploring back roads on their motorcycle and creating lasting memories through their shared love of travel and adventure.

Tommy’s dedication extends beyond his personal and professional life. As a proud member of the Patriot Guard Riders, he honors and supports veterans by standing in tribute at ceremonies and services. His involvement reflects a deep respect for those who have served and a steadfast commitment to their legacy.

Having served his country with honor and distinction, Tommy's commitment to the United States Army National Guard is a testament to his dedication to service. His professional career unfolded at Langdale Ford Company, where he spent 27 years in the parts department, contributing diligently until his well-deserved retirement.

Away from professional commitments, Tommy and Gwen find joy in traversing the winding back roads on their motorcycle, relishing the freedom and adventure that open up before them. Their shared love for exploration and the open road has been a source of countless cherished memories.

Tommy's heart for service extends beyond his professional and personal spheres. His membership in the Patriot Guard Riders exemplifies his commitment to honoring veterans, paying tribute, and showing respect to those who have served. Through this involvement, Tommy stands as a symbol of gratitude and support for veterans and their families, reflecting his unwavering dedication to their cause.

Tommy embodies a life richly lived, marked by service, dedication, family love, and an adventurous spirit. His multifaceted contributions to both the funeral service industry and his broader community serve as a testament to his enduring commitment to honor, compassion, and respect.

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Bill Young

Part Time Funeral Assistant

Bill Young, a native son of Valdosta, continues to proudly call this vibrant city home, sharing his life's journey with his beloved wife, Ann. Their union has been blessed with a son, and they revel in the joy of three cherished grandchildren, adding richness to their lives.

A distinguished veteran of the United States Army, Bill dedicated a significant portion of his life in service to his country. His professional journey led him through a fulfilling career at the United States Postal Service, where he eventually retired, marking the culmination of his dedicated service.

However, retirement didn't signify a slowdown in life for Bill; rather, it opened the door to enriching experiences and quality time with his family. His passion for family time shines brightly as he savors moments spent with his loved ones. An avid traveler, Bill adores exploring the country and has the pleasure of sharing these adventures with his entire family.

Beyond his personal pursuits, Bill extends his heart and compassion as a part-time funeral assistant at Music Funeral Services. His dedicated role involves providing comfort and care to families during their challenging times, reflecting his commitment to service and empathy.

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Marty Faulkner

Part Time Funeral Assistant

Marty Faulkner became a member of the Music Funeral Services team in March 2024, bringing with him extensive experience and a sincere passion for serving others. A lifelong resident of Nashville, Georgia, Marty still calls the town home, where he lives with his cherished wife, Deloris—affectionately known as "DeeDee." Together, they’ve raised three wonderful children and are proud grandparents to four beloved grandchildren.

Marty’s dedication to service is rooted in his time with the United States Navy, where he honorably served for four years, including during the Lebanon Conflict. His military service has earned him membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and he remains an active member of Post 5978 in Nashville.

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Dub Music

Part Time Funeral Director/Embalmer

Dub Music’s life journey began in Hahira, Georgia, and soon found deeper roots in Lakeland, Georgia, where he was lovingly raised by the late W.G. “Glyndon” and Maxine Music. A proud graduate of Lanier County High School, Dub pursued his calling in funeral service, earning his degree from Gupton-Jones School of Funeral Service in 1974.

Following in the footsteps of his family’s legacy, Dub took over the family-owned funeral home after his father's retirement that same year. With a deep sense of commitment and care, he continued to serve the community with dignity and compassion.

Dub’s personal life blossomed when he married Wilma Wacter. Together, they raised four sons—Casey (Brooke), Michael (Kristy), Lee (April), and Kyle (Laura), creating a close-knit family anchored in love, support, and shared values. They have since been blessed with several beloved grandchildren, who remain a central joy in Dub’s life.

After a long and dedicated career, Dub retired in 2014, entrusting the family business to his eldest son, Casey. Even in retirement, he remained a vital part of the community. He serves as secretary of Lakeland Masonic Lodge #434, reflecting his lifelong commitment to fellowship and service.

In addition to his community involvement, Dub serves as the pastor of Good Hope Church in Naylor, Georgia. His passion for sharing the gospel and guiding others in their faith is evident in his compassionate leadership and heartfelt sermons. Outside of the pulpit, he finds great joy in spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who bring constant delight to his days.

Dub also nurtures a deep connection to the earth through his love of gardening. His vegetable garden is more than a hobby, it’s a source of peace and a reflection of his appreciation for life’s simple, grounding pleasures.