Meet Our Team

Jeffrey A. Forsythe

President

Jeff Forsythe knows firsthand that the most meaningful work often arises from life’s toughest challenges. When his parents divorced, the 15-year-old left Fairfield for Portland, scraping together $7 a week to rent a room at the YMCA and earning his keep on the city’s fish docks. Those hard-won lessons in grit and service still anchor his approach to funeral care today.

In Portland, Jeff met Rhonda, the partner who would accompany him back to central Maine in 1987. While studying nights at Thomas College and the University of Maine at Augusta, he balanced roles at Zimba Corp. and PepsiCo.—until a part-time position with mentors Ed and Marilyn Gaunce at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home changed his trajectory.

Captivated by the privilege of helping families heal, Jeff enrolled in the New England Institute of Mortuary Science, graduating in 1992. By 1995 he was managing Lawry Brothers; four years later he purchased the firm outright. Under Jeff’s stewardship, the business broadened into new communities across Maine and the broader New England region, ultimately uniting under the Family First Funeral Homes & Cremation Care banner.

Jeff’s commitment to ethical, family-focused service earned him the Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce’s 2018 Business Person of the Year award, but he measures success by quieter metrics: a widow’s relieved smile, a child’s heartfelt “thank you,” and staff who feel called—not compelled—to serve. More than three decades after his first day in funeral service, Jeff still believes there is no more rewarding vocation than guiding families through their hardest days—with dignity, transparency, and genuine care.

Justin Richardson

Chief Operating Officer

Justin Richardson serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Family First Funeral Homes & Cremation Care, where he oversees operations, strategic initiatives, and future acquisitions across the organization. Since joining the funeral profession in 2014, Justin has been involved in virtually every aspect of funeral service, giving him a comprehensive understanding of both the operational and service-related components of the business.

As COO, Justin is responsible for driving organizational growth, improving operational efficiency, implementing innovative technologies, and supporting Family First's continued expansion. He works closely with leadership teams across all locations to ensure consistent service excellence, strong financial performance, and a culture centered on caring for both families and employees.

Prior to entering the funeral profession, Justin was a personal trainer and co-owner of two successful fitness facilities in Central Maine. During that time, he utilized his Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science while helping individuals improve their health, performance, and overall well-being. His entrepreneurial background and passion for leadership have helped shape his approach to business, focusing on continuous improvement, innovation, and long-term growth.

Justin is known for his forward-thinking mindset, collaborative leadership style, and commitment to building strong teams. He believes in challenging conventional thinking, embracing change, and creating opportunities that strengthen both the organization and the communities it serves.

Justin resides in Central Maine with his wife, Hannah, daughter, Kayda, son, Bentley, and their dog, Max. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family, staying active, and serving in his local church and community.

Wayne Durrett

Chief Financial Officer

Wayne Durrett is the Chief Financial Officer at Family First Funeral Homes & Cremation Care.

He has been involved in financial management actions, and his primary responsibilities include financial reporting, forecasting, managing cash flows, and capital structuring for acquisitions.

Before joining Family First, Wayne worked as a Manager at a regional public accounting firm performing financial statement audits and helping clients implement and maintain efficient and accurate accounting practices. Wayne graduated from Florida State University with a (BS) in Accounting and also Finance. Wayne is a Certified Public Accountant in the state of Florida.

When not at work, Wayne enjoys spending time with his wife Jill, daughter Parker, and son Andrew. His hobbies include exercising, soccer, and fishing.

Angela Simpson

VP of Accounting

Angela is the Controller for Family First Funeral Homes, where she orchestrates the daily accounting operations, oversees payroll, and ensures precise financial reporting in collaboration with the accounts payable and receivable teams. Proficient in financial statement preparation and budget management, she spearheads efforts to refine internal processes.

With over two decades of experience spanning both for-profit and not-for-profit sectors, Angela brings a wealth of expertise in accounting and HR management. Holding a Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia Tech, she is driven to enhance operational efficiency for the company and its employees.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Angela's compassionate nature shines through her dedication to helping others. Outside the office, she cherishes moments with her family, relishes outdoor adventures, and indulges in her passion for cooking.

Alyssa Brugger

VP of Operations

Argo Regan

Regional Director

Danny Hatt

Regional Director