our staff
Meet the skilled professionals who are committed to serving our community with excellence.

Karl Flagg
President / CEO / LFDIC / Notary Public
Reverend Karl N. Flagg is the Founder and President/CEO of Karl N. Flagg Serenity Memorial Chapel. He concurrently serves as Senior Pastor of Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church of Palatka (since 1991) with a South Putnam Church campus added in September, 2016.
A lifelong resident of Palatka, Putnam County, Florida, he is actively involved in numerous community affairs and organizations. He has served as a compassionate and conscientious Florida Licensed Funeral Director& Embalmer since July 11, 1983. Karl started passionately assisting families at the youth age of 10, while in the 5th grade at Central Academy Elementary School. He served at D. A. Boyd & Sons Funeral Home from 1971 until 1997 and also at James C. Boyd Funeral Home, Fort Lauderdale, during and after mortuary school.
He was a 1977 honor graduate of Palatka Central High School, serving as Class president for both his junior and senior year. He was a 1979 graduate of Miami-Dade College of Funeral Service Education; He pursued management and marketing at St. Johns River State College and pastoral studies at New Orleans Baptist Seminary (Jacksonville extension).
Karl is a statesman! A public servant for over 30 years, he had the privilege of serving as a City Commissioner, Palatka (elected October 1989; term 1990-95); Mayor of the city of Palatka (inaugurated December 20, 2000; Elected un-opposed in 2000; re-elected unopposed in 2001; Re-elected in 2005, with 86% of the vote and completed his final term in 2011; He was elected as a Putnam County Commissioner in 2012 and served through 2016.
Formerly served as a City Commissioner, Palatka (elected October 1989; term 1990-95). He is a proud husband and father of two daughters. His wife of over 32 years, Terricena Gilyard-Flagg, native of St. Augustine and a longtime resident of Palatka. Their two beautiful daughters, Karla (Jarvis) Flagg-Wright is a Licensed Funeral Director and Kandyce Flagg, serves as an Administrative Assistant. They have one granddaughter, Jayla Faith Wright and one grandson, Jarvis F. Wright, II.
A snapshot of past and present community involvement, includes Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, Putnam County Tourist Development Council, Putnam County Economic Development Council, Putnam County Development Authority, Rodeheaver's Boys Ranch, Central Putnam Ministerial Association (Past President), National Funeral Director's Association, Independent Funeral Directors of Florida; Director of Chaplains & Support Services, Putnam County Sheriff's Department, Volunteer Chaplain, Putnam Community Medical Center, Chaplain for the FL Highway Patrol, Troop G, Chaplain for the Putnam County EMS, etc.

Karl Flagg
President / CEO / LFDIC / Notary Public
Reverend Karl N. Flagg is the Founder and President/CEO of Karl N. Flagg Serenity Memorial Chapel. He concurrently serves as Senior Pastor of Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church of Palatka (since 1991) with a South Putnam Church campus added in September, 2016.
A lifelong resident of Palatka, Putnam County, Florida, he is actively involved in numerous community affairs and organizations. He has served as a compassionate and conscientious Florida Licensed Funeral Director& Embalmer since July 11, 1983. Karl started passionately assisting families at the youth age of 10, while in the 5th grade at Central Academy Elementary School. He served at D. A. Boyd & Sons Funeral Home from 1971 until 1997 and also at James C. Boyd Funeral Home, Fort Lauderdale, during and after mortuary school.
He was a 1977 honor graduate of Palatka Central High School, serving as Class president for both his junior and senior year. He was a 1979 graduate of Miami-Dade College of Funeral Service Education; He pursued management and marketing at St. Johns River State College and pastoral studies at New Orleans Baptist Seminary (Jacksonville extension).
Karl is a statesman! A public servant for over 30 years, he had the privilege of serving as a City Commissioner, Palatka (elected October 1989; term 1990-95); Mayor of the city of Palatka (inaugurated December 20, 2000; Elected un-opposed in 2000; re-elected unopposed in 2001; Re-elected in 2005, with 86% of the vote and completed his final term in 2011; He was elected as a Putnam County Commissioner in 2012 and served through 2016.
Formerly served as a City Commissioner, Palatka (elected October 1989; term 1990-95). He is a proud husband and father of two daughters. His wife of over 32 years, Terricena Gilyard-Flagg, native of St. Augustine and a longtime resident of Palatka. Their two beautiful daughters, Karla (Jarvis) Flagg-Wright is a Licensed Funeral Director and Kandyce Flagg, serves as an Administrative Assistant. They have one granddaughter, Jayla Faith Wright and one grandson, Jarvis F. Wright, II.
A snapshot of past and present community involvement, includes Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, Putnam County Tourist Development Council, Putnam County Economic Development Council, Putnam County Development Authority, Rodeheaver's Boys Ranch, Central Putnam Ministerial Association (Past President), National Funeral Director's Association, Independent Funeral Directors of Florida; Director of Chaplains & Support Services, Putnam County Sheriff's Department, Volunteer Chaplain, Putnam Community Medical Center, Chaplain for the FL Highway Patrol, Troop G, Chaplain for the Putnam County EMS, etc.

Karla Flagg-Wright
Vice President / COO / LFD / Notary Public
Karla N. Flagg-Wright is a native and lifelong resident of Palatka, Florida, born on April 1, 1991 as the first-born daughter of Rev. Karl N. & Terricena D. Flagg. She is a 2009 Summa Cum Laude graduate of Palatka High School. On December 15, 2009, Karla earned her Associate of Arts degree from St. Johns River Community College (now St. Johns River State College). On May 4, 2012, Karla was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management-Human Resources from the University of Central Florida, Orlando. On July 20, 2013, she was awarded a Certificate in Funeral Arts from St. Petersburg College. Karla is a Licensed Funeral Director and presently serves as the Chief Operations Officer of the family's firm, Karl N. Flagg Serenity Memorial Chapel.
On October 18, 2014, Karla united in Holy Matrimony to the love of her life and her best friend- Pastor Jarvis F. Wright, Sr. Jarvis and Karla are the proud parents of Jayla Faith Wright and Jarvis F. Wright, II.
Karla’s favorite scripture is Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future (NIV).

Karla Flagg-Wright
Vice President / COO / LFD / Notary Public
Karla N. Flagg-Wright is a native and lifelong resident of Palatka, Florida, born on April 1, 1991 as the first-born daughter of Rev. Karl N. & Terricena D. Flagg. She is a 2009 Summa Cum Laude graduate of Palatka High School. On December 15, 2009, Karla earned her Associate of Arts degree from St. Johns River Community College (now St. Johns River State College). On May 4, 2012, Karla was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management-Human Resources from the University of Central Florida, Orlando. On July 20, 2013, she was awarded a Certificate in Funeral Arts from St. Petersburg College. Karla is a Licensed Funeral Director and presently serves as the Chief Operations Officer of the family's firm, Karl N. Flagg Serenity Memorial Chapel.
On October 18, 2014, Karla united in Holy Matrimony to the love of her life and her best friend- Pastor Jarvis F. Wright, Sr. Jarvis and Karla are the proud parents of Jayla Faith Wright and Jarvis F. Wright, II.
Karla’s favorite scripture is Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future (NIV).

Willard Smith, Sr.
Senior Vice President / Director
Willard Eugene Smith, Sr., (affectionally known as "Gene"), is a native of Palatka, Florida, and Senior Vice President at Karl N. Flagg Serenity Memorial Chapel. He is married to the former Annette Gilyard of San Mateo and together they will soon celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary. He is a dedicated father to their children. Gene has been active in the funeral service profession since his teenage years. Gene is Pastor Flagg's youngest brother. Gene was educated in the Putnam County School District at Palatka High School.
He is a passionate caregiver for families during their time of bereavement. He has traveled extensively throughout the state of Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Alabama to bring many loved ones back home. He is a jack of all trades and serves a the go-to person for most of the service issues that comes up without notice. He is the primary coordinator for all transport needs to and from the facility. He is the start to finish man from the initial call until final disposition. He fully directs cemetery operations and vault installation services.

Willard Smith, Sr.
Senior Vice President / Director
Willard Eugene Smith, Sr., (affectionally known as "Gene"), is a native of Palatka, Florida, and Senior Vice President at Karl N. Flagg Serenity Memorial Chapel. He is married to the former Annette Gilyard of San Mateo and together they will soon celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary. He is a dedicated father to their children. Gene has been active in the funeral service profession since his teenage years. Gene is Pastor Flagg's youngest brother. Gene was educated in the Putnam County School District at Palatka High School.
He is a passionate caregiver for families during their time of bereavement. He has traveled extensively throughout the state of Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Alabama to bring many loved ones back home. He is a jack of all trades and serves a the go-to person for most of the service issues that comes up without notice. He is the primary coordinator for all transport needs to and from the facility. He is the start to finish man from the initial call until final disposition. He fully directs cemetery operations and vault installation services.

Lori Hughes
Licensed Funeral Director
Lori Hughes is a native of Palatka, Florida and has been a resident of Jacksonville, Florida for 40 years. She is the proud mother of two daughters and a loving grandmother to her two grandchildren. Lori is a graduate of Palatka High School and Miami Dade College of Funeral Service. After 28 years of service, Lori retired from her position as an IRS Tax Law Specialist. She is a well-tenured licensed funeral director who is a member and officer in the Florida First Coast Morticians Association. For more than 30 years, Lori has been a member of the Potter's House International in Jacksonville where she regularly supports the youth ministry. Lori considers it a privilege to be part of a compassionate and caring profession.

Lori Hughes
Licensed Funeral Director
Lori Hughes is a native of Palatka, Florida and has been a resident of Jacksonville, Florida for 40 years. She is the proud mother of two daughters and a loving grandmother to her two grandchildren. Lori is a graduate of Palatka High School and Miami Dade College of Funeral Service. After 28 years of service, Lori retired from her position as an IRS Tax Law Specialist. She is a well-tenured licensed funeral director who is a member and officer in the Florida First Coast Morticians Association. For more than 30 years, Lori has been a member of the Potter's House International in Jacksonville where she regularly supports the youth ministry. Lori considers it a privilege to be part of a compassionate and caring profession.

LaShonda Simmons-Watson
Licensed Funeral Director
LaShonda T. Simmons-Watson is a native of Putnam County and has been with Flagg-Serenity Memorial Chapel, since 2000. She earned her B.S. degree from Florida A& M University majoring in Psychology. In 2002, She graduated from St. Petersburg College with an Associate in Science Degree in Mortuary Science. LaShonda has served as a Licensed Funeral Director since September, 2003. LaShonda is a former Putnam County School District educator and is currently serving as a school administrator in St. Johns County. She is married to Eddie Watson and they are proud parents of twin girls, Emery and Elise Watson. She always brings her smile and expertise to lift others in their time of need.

LaShonda Simmons-Watson
Licensed Funeral Director
LaShonda T. Simmons-Watson is a native of Putnam County and has been with Flagg-Serenity Memorial Chapel, since 2000. She earned her B.S. degree from Florida A& M University majoring in Psychology. In 2002, She graduated from St. Petersburg College with an Associate in Science Degree in Mortuary Science. LaShonda has served as a Licensed Funeral Director since September, 2003. LaShonda is a former Putnam County School District educator and is currently serving as a school administrator in St. Johns County. She is married to Eddie Watson and they are proud parents of twin girls, Emery and Elise Watson. She always brings her smile and expertise to lift others in their time of need.

Todd Williams
Licensed Funeral Director

Todd Williams
Licensed Funeral Director

Sharon Lesesne
Licensed Funeral Director / Pre-Need Specialist

Sharon Lesesne
Licensed Funeral Director / Pre-Need Specialist

Carol Love-Coffie
Licensed Funeral Director / Pre-Need Specialist
Carol is originally from Green Cove Springs, Florida, and is the middle child and the only girl between an older and younger brother. After receiving formative education in Clay County, she attended Bethune-Cookman College in Daytona Beach where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Speech-Communication and later earned a Master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Central Florida in Orlando.
She operates efficiently in the gifts of administration, teaching and helping. She has had the honor of serving in leadership at the Mt. Calvary Baptist Church of Palm Coast for the past 25 years. Her favorite pastimes include traveling, bargain shopping and coordinating events. After years of employment in education, social service administration and consulting, she embarked upon formal funeral service education. She began a Funeral Service Director internship with Serenity in 2022. In May of 2023, Carol graduated from the St. Petersburg College Funeral Services Program.
Carol considers the opportunity to serve families to be a blessing and an honor.

Carol Love-Coffie
Licensed Funeral Director / Pre-Need Specialist
Carol is originally from Green Cove Springs, Florida, and is the middle child and the only girl between an older and younger brother. After receiving formative education in Clay County, she attended Bethune-Cookman College in Daytona Beach where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Speech-Communication and later earned a Master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Central Florida in Orlando.
She operates efficiently in the gifts of administration, teaching and helping. She has had the honor of serving in leadership at the Mt. Calvary Baptist Church of Palm Coast for the past 25 years. Her favorite pastimes include traveling, bargain shopping and coordinating events. After years of employment in education, social service administration and consulting, she embarked upon formal funeral service education. She began a Funeral Service Director internship with Serenity in 2022. In May of 2023, Carol graduated from the St. Petersburg College Funeral Services Program.
Carol considers the opportunity to serve families to be a blessing and an honor.

Terricena Flagg
Professional Nurse
Terri is a Licensed Nurse and counselor. She earned her B.S.N. Degree at Bethune Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Florida. She is the wife of Rev. Karl Flagg. While Terri is mother of two lovely daughters and a part-time state employee, she makes herself available to address the needs of the families we serve and the Flagg-Serenity staff on an as needed basis.

Terricena Flagg
Professional Nurse
Terri is a Licensed Nurse and counselor. She earned her B.S.N. Degree at Bethune Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Florida. She is the wife of Rev. Karl Flagg. While Terri is mother of two lovely daughters and a part-time state employee, she makes herself available to address the needs of the families we serve and the Flagg-Serenity staff on an as needed basis.

Kandyce Flagg
Executive Assistant / Notary Public
Kandyce is a native of Palatka, Florida. She is the youngest daughter of Karl and Terricena Flagg. She is also a recent graduate of the University of Florida, where she obtained her Bachelor's degree in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences with a specialization in Animal Sciences. She currently works as the administrative assistant at Karl N. Flagg Serenity Memorial Chapel.

Kandyce Flagg
Executive Assistant / Notary Public
Kandyce is a native of Palatka, Florida. She is the youngest daughter of Karl and Terricena Flagg. She is also a recent graduate of the University of Florida, where she obtained her Bachelor's degree in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences with a specialization in Animal Sciences. She currently works as the administrative assistant at Karl N. Flagg Serenity Memorial Chapel.

Mary Hobbs-Thomas
Administrative Assistant / Notary Public
Mary was born in Roy, Florida and raised in the East Palatka, Florida area. She is one of 15 children of which she is the fifth youngest. There are three brothers and one sister younger than her. Three of her siblings are deceased. In 1982, Mary married her high school sweetheart and celebrated 40 years of marriage to him in 2022. One daughter (Danielle)and son-in-law (Timothy), as well as one bonus daughter (LaTrena) are blessed to call Mary their mother. She has two grandsons, three bonus grandsons, one bonus great grandson and one bonus great granddaughter.
Mary has an Associates degree from Central Texas College and a Bachelor's degree from Troy University.
After retiring from leadership roles in child welfare, Mary joined the Serenity family in 2022. She serves as an Administrative Assistant. Her role provides support for all funeral service operations. On a daily basis Mary leads with a sincere desire to serve loving families.
Mary feels that being a part of the Serenity family affords her the opportunity to experience strong leadership, loving support and phenomenal teamwork.

Mary Hobbs-Thomas
Administrative Assistant / Notary Public
Mary was born in Roy, Florida and raised in the East Palatka, Florida area. She is one of 15 children of which she is the fifth youngest. There are three brothers and one sister younger than her. Three of her siblings are deceased. In 1982, Mary married her high school sweetheart and celebrated 40 years of marriage to him in 2022. One daughter (Danielle)and son-in-law (Timothy), as well as one bonus daughter (LaTrena) are blessed to call Mary their mother. She has two grandsons, three bonus grandsons, one bonus great grandson and one bonus great granddaughter.
Mary has an Associates degree from Central Texas College and a Bachelor's degree from Troy University.
After retiring from leadership roles in child welfare, Mary joined the Serenity family in 2022. She serves as an Administrative Assistant. Her role provides support for all funeral service operations. On a daily basis Mary leads with a sincere desire to serve loving families.
Mary feels that being a part of the Serenity family affords her the opportunity to experience strong leadership, loving support and phenomenal teamwork.

Doris Humphrey
Administrative Assistant / Notary Public
Doris is a native of Hastings, Florida and is the fourth of six children in her family. As a matriarch, her tender love and care is given to her four children, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. In 2006, she earned a B.A. degree from Bethune-Cookman University. Her major was Sociology. After numerous years as a leader on the college administration level, Doris joined the Serenity team in March 2019. She performs a variety of tasks such as administrative support and guidance for multiple funeral home operation tasks including managing customer experiences and supporting families’ efforts to preserve living memories. By helping family and friends honor their loved ones, Doris sees herself as doing God’s work.

Doris Humphrey
Administrative Assistant / Notary Public
Doris is a native of Hastings, Florida and is the fourth of six children in her family. As a matriarch, her tender love and care is given to her four children, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. In 2006, she earned a B.A. degree from Bethune-Cookman University. Her major was Sociology. After numerous years as a leader on the college administration level, Doris joined the Serenity team in March 2019. She performs a variety of tasks such as administrative support and guidance for multiple funeral home operation tasks including managing customer experiences and supporting families’ efforts to preserve living memories. By helping family and friends honor their loved ones, Doris sees herself as doing God’s work.

Rebecca Watkins
Administrative Assistant / Lab Assistant / NP*
Rebecca "Becky" Watkins, longtime Palatka resident - A native of Fort Myers, she is an Apprentice who is very caring and devoted to the family served. She is engaged in all facets of the profession. She works tirelessly in Funeral Home Accounting, Administration, and is a Lab technician. She is a very conscientious person who offers her assistance to all who she sees have a need to be fulfilled. She also serves in administration with the Palatka Housing Authority.
*notary public

Rebecca Watkins
Administrative Assistant / Lab Assistant / NP*
Rebecca "Becky" Watkins, longtime Palatka resident - A native of Fort Myers, she is an Apprentice who is very caring and devoted to the family served. She is engaged in all facets of the profession. She works tirelessly in Funeral Home Accounting, Administration, and is a Lab technician. She is a very conscientious person who offers her assistance to all who she sees have a need to be fulfilled. She also serves in administration with the Palatka Housing Authority.
*notary public

James Chestnut
Operations Assistant
James is a native of Hastings, Florida and is the 3rd oldest in his sibling group. Being a father to his two children is James' greatest joy. He is a master barber with full licensure in Florida. In 2009, James joined the Serenity team. He is an experienced lab technician and fleet manager. James considers his tenure at Serenity as an invaluable opportunity to gain on-hands experience toward his future goal of becoming a funeral director.

James Chestnut
Operations Assistant
James is a native of Hastings, Florida and is the 3rd oldest in his sibling group. Being a father to his two children is James' greatest joy. He is a master barber with full licensure in Florida. In 2009, James joined the Serenity team. He is an experienced lab technician and fleet manager. James considers his tenure at Serenity as an invaluable opportunity to gain on-hands experience toward his future goal of becoming a funeral director.

Pernell Thomas
Operations Assistant
Pernell is a native son of Palatka, FL. He is the fifth of 11 children. His formal education was received as a student at Central Academy and Palatka High School. During his high school years, participation in NJROTC helped him develop organizational skills and introduced him to the concept of collaboration. His work history includes employment at retail sites - Pic 'N Save, Winn Dixie and Publix.
As part of the Serenity family, Pernell supports response operations, environmental preparation of final resting site and fleet management.
Fishing is Pernell's most favorite pastime. He enjoys auto mechanic projects and is a certified plumber.
Pernell considers being a part of the Serenity family as an opportunity to exhibit compassion to families when they need it the most. Being guided by high standards of professionalism and integrity are factors that motivate his continued service in the funeral industry.
Pernell and his wife Tamara have been married for 20 years. Together they have eight children and 13 grandchildren.

Pernell Thomas
Operations Assistant
Pernell is a native son of Palatka, FL. He is the fifth of 11 children. His formal education was received as a student at Central Academy and Palatka High School. During his high school years, participation in NJROTC helped him develop organizational skills and introduced him to the concept of collaboration. His work history includes employment at retail sites - Pic 'N Save, Winn Dixie and Publix.
As part of the Serenity family, Pernell supports response operations, environmental preparation of final resting site and fleet management.
Fishing is Pernell's most favorite pastime. He enjoys auto mechanic projects and is a certified plumber.
Pernell considers being a part of the Serenity family as an opportunity to exhibit compassion to families when they need it the most. Being guided by high standards of professionalism and integrity are factors that motivate his continued service in the funeral industry.
Pernell and his wife Tamara have been married for 20 years. Together they have eight children and 13 grandchildren.

Lula Jones
In Memoriam
When you would call Serenity's office, more than likely you heard the caring and pleasant voice of Lula. She coordinated countless calls, facilitated the staff and greeted families and visitors who needed guidance during trying times and difficult circumstances. She is greatly missed and her memories will be treasured forevermore.

Lula Jones
In Memoriam
When you would call Serenity's office, more than likely you heard the caring and pleasant voice of Lula. She coordinated countless calls, facilitated the staff and greeted families and visitors who needed guidance during trying times and difficult circumstances. She is greatly missed and her memories will be treasured forevermore.

DeRon Armond
Funeral Service Specialist

DeRon Armond
Funeral Service Specialist

Justin Campbell
Funeral Service Specialist
Growing up in the small town of Palatka, Florida, Justin Campbell has always recognized the importance of hard work, helping others, and giving back to the community. He is a graduate from Florida State University, where he obtained a dual degree in Criminal Justice and International Affairs. He is currently pursuing a Masters in Educational Leadership.
Campbell is a community leader with extensive experience in leadership and serves on several boards whose missions are centered around youth development, community equity and individual sustainability.
Campbell lives by the quote "Without faith nothing is possible. With faith, nothing is impossible. Faith in God is the greatest power, and faith in one’s self is powerful too.“

Justin Campbell
Funeral Service Specialist
Growing up in the small town of Palatka, Florida, Justin Campbell has always recognized the importance of hard work, helping others, and giving back to the community. He is a graduate from Florida State University, where he obtained a dual degree in Criminal Justice and International Affairs. He is currently pursuing a Masters in Educational Leadership.
Campbell is a community leader with extensive experience in leadership and serves on several boards whose missions are centered around youth development, community equity and individual sustainability.
Campbell lives by the quote "Without faith nothing is possible. With faith, nothing is impossible. Faith in God is the greatest power, and faith in one’s self is powerful too.“

Carlos Hunt
Funeral Service Specialist

Carlos Hunt
Funeral Service Specialist

Charles Hunt
Funeral Service Specialist

Charles Hunt
Funeral Service Specialist
Charles is a native of Gainesville, Florida. He is the second oldest child in his sibling group. As a proud father of a son and daughter, Charles cherishes the blessing of family. In 2004, he graduated from Buchholz High School and later completed studies at the Institute of Safety at Santa Fe College. As a part of the Serenity team, Charles has served as a lab assistant and fulfills general responsibilities associated with Funeral Services Specialist. Serving families is Charles' passion and he is grateful for the opportunity to bring light to families during their darkest hour.

Lee Johnson
Funeral Service Specialist

Lee Johnson
Funeral Service Specialist

Donald Lockhart, Jr.
Funeral Service Specialist
Donald Lockhart is a native of Palatka and a graduate of Palatka High School. He is a coach and mentor to students in Flagler and Putnam counties. Donald and his wife, LaToya are proud parents to four children. He currently resides in Palm Coast. Since 1997, Donald has served as a Funeral Service Specialist at Serenity.

Donald Lockhart, Jr.
Funeral Service Specialist
Donald Lockhart is a native of Palatka and a graduate of Palatka High School. He is a coach and mentor to students in Flagler and Putnam counties. Donald and his wife, LaToya are proud parents to four children. He currently resides in Palm Coast. Since 1997, Donald has served as a Funeral Service Specialist at Serenity.

James Miller
Funeral Service Specialist
James Miller is a native of Palatka, Florida. He graduated from Central Academy in 1965. Mr. Miller was employed at Hudson Mill for several years before enlisting in the Air Force. After an honorable discharge from military service, James returned to Palatka and became employed at Georgia Pacific. His post military employment ended in retirement after 47 years.
Mr. Miller has been a part of the Serenity team since it opened over 25 years ago. His usual responsibilities include driving vehicles but he has served in a variety of roles over the years.
Mr. Miller is a family man who has enjoyed more than 50 years of marriage to his wife D'Arcy. James & D'Arcy are the proud parents of two daughters: Latice and Saraya.
Comforting families during their time of need is considered by James to be a great need that he is honored to fulfill. He often reflects on his mother's guidance during his formative years..... "be nice to people".

James Miller
Funeral Service Specialist
James Miller is a native of Palatka, Florida. He graduated from Central Academy in 1965. Mr. Miller was employed at Hudson Mill for several years before enlisting in the Air Force. After an honorable discharge from military service, James returned to Palatka and became employed at Georgia Pacific. His post military employment ended in retirement after 47 years.
Mr. Miller has been a part of the Serenity team since it opened over 25 years ago. His usual responsibilities include driving vehicles but he has served in a variety of roles over the years.
Mr. Miller is a family man who has enjoyed more than 50 years of marriage to his wife D'Arcy. James & D'Arcy are the proud parents of two daughters: Latice and Saraya.
Comforting families during their time of need is considered by James to be a great need that he is honored to fulfill. He often reflects on his mother's guidance during his formative years..... "be nice to people".

Steve Shavers
Funeral Service Specialist
Steve Shavers is a native of Palatka, Florida. He is a former CSX employee and has served in several leadership positions in law enforcement. In addition to being a community leader, Steve is a leader in his local church ministry and is a skilled musician. For more than 5 years, Steve has served as a Funeral Services Specialist at Serenity.

Steve Shavers
Funeral Service Specialist
Steve Shavers is a native of Palatka, Florida. He is a former CSX employee and has served in several leadership positions in law enforcement. In addition to being a community leader, Steve is a leader in his local church ministry and is a skilled musician. For more than 5 years, Steve has served as a Funeral Services Specialist at Serenity.

Anterio Smith, Sr.
Funeral Service Specialist

Anterio Smith, Sr.
Funeral Service Specialist

William McCormick, Jr.
Funeral Service Specialist
William McCormick, Jr. — affectionately known as “Junior” — was born and raised in Miami-Dade County, Florida. He is the youngest son of the late Deacon William McCormick Sr. and Martha McCormick. William is married to Dedra McCormick, LPN, and together they parent four children: the late Robert, Ah’tilah, Madison, and Marleigh.
In 2009, William officially relocated to Palatka, Florida, following his graduation from Clark Atlanta University. He began his collegiate journey at Tuskegee University, where he was a proud member of the 2002 SIAC Championship football team. He later earned his bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Clark Atlanta University.
In May 2025, William joined the Flagg-Serenity team as a Funeral Service Specialist. With over fifteen years of dedicated service to children and families in Florida’s Northeast Region, he brings deep compassion and experience to his role.
For William, serving families is more than a profession — it is an act of love, compassion, and a reflection of God’s design.

William McCormick, Jr.
Funeral Service Specialist
William McCormick, Jr. — affectionately known as “Junior” — was born and raised in Miami-Dade County, Florida. He is the youngest son of the late Deacon William McCormick Sr. and Martha McCormick. William is married to Dedra McCormick, LPN, and together they parent four children: the late Robert, Ah’tilah, Madison, and Marleigh.
In 2009, William officially relocated to Palatka, Florida, following his graduation from Clark Atlanta University. He began his collegiate journey at Tuskegee University, where he was a proud member of the 2002 SIAC Championship football team. He later earned his bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Clark Atlanta University.
In May 2025, William joined the Flagg-Serenity team as a Funeral Service Specialist. With over fifteen years of dedicated service to children and families in Florida’s Northeast Region, he brings deep compassion and experience to his role.
For William, serving families is more than a profession — it is an act of love, compassion, and a reflection of God’s design.
