A story by Biddeford Cultural & Heritage Center "Voices of Biddeford" project from late 1800s to 2021
Voices of Biddeford interview with John Conroy on June 23, 2021
Losing a loved one is never easy. John Conroy shared how his family has been there to help families by providing funeral services that best meet their needs for 4 generations. John also shared his paternal grandparents' journey from Ireland to Portland, family contributions during World War II, and growing up in a 3-generational home that was also a funeral parlor. He spoke of his journey navigating his French and Irish roots, his career path from a lab technician back to the family business, the rewards and challenges of this line of work especially during the height of AIDS concerns and current COVID pandemic, changes in funeral traditions from the late 1800s to present day and converting the popular Roll-A-Way lanes to Hope Memorial Chapel. He also shared his personal experiences growing up in the Biddeford area and his perspective on the events and changes he has seen in Biddeford.
View a transcript of this interview, more pictures, and additional information.
For more stories from the Voices for Biddeford project, visit Voices of Biddeford.
John Conroy 2021
Then: J.F. Emond Funeral Services
Now: Hope Memorial Chapel
Friendly URL: https://www.mainememory.net/mymainestory/johnconroy
