Available 24/7 Call Now:

Fairburn: (770) 964-7833

Marietta: (770) 637-1486

McDonough: (770) 629-0026

Hispanic: (770) 672-0533

Our Staff

Our experienced, compassionate professionals are ready to assist you at Southern Cremations & Funerals’ three family-owned funeral homes in Fairburn, Marietta and McDonough. Our goal is to create meaningful experiences and lasting memories for our customers and their families. We are available to assist you 24/7 with immediate needs or are happy to schedule an appointment to help you pre-plan your own future services. Above all, we strive to treat each family we serve with kindness, professionalism and honesty.

José Juan Payá : Chief Executive Officer

José Juan Payá

Chief Executive Officer

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José Juan Payá

Chief Executive Officer

Jose Juan belongs to the second generation of a family that has been in the funeral industry since 1981. JJP joined the family business in 2000 and since then, has been in different positions and countries.

In a significant move, JJP and his family decided to relocate to the US in 2021. This transition marks a new chapter in his career and opens up exciting collaboration possibilities with US professionals. If you can´t find him, he is probably going on a run somewhere.

JJ holds an MBA from ESADE.

Miguel Brotóns Cano : Chief Operating Officer

Miguel Brotóns Cano

Chief Operating Officer

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Miguel Brotóns Cano

Chief Operating Officer

Miguel was born in Europe and was graduated in Economic Sciences. He started his relation with the funeral sector in 1998 as a consultant, when he prepared ASV GROUP (parent family company to Southern Cremations and Funerals) to get the first ISO 9001 Quality Management Certification for the funeral sector.

He enrolled ASV GROUP in 2002 and was hooked on the funeral sector because of the satisfaction of doing something to benefit families and society in such a difficult time. He has occupied multiple positions in the funeral and insurance sector for over 20 years, as Quality and Human Director, Operations Director, Purchases Director and as CEO of Limbo Europe, a company whose main aim is to offer innovative and environmentally friendly funeral solutions.

Before moving to Atlanta, he was a Member of the European working subcommittee of the International Cremation Federation, member of the Board of Directors of the main National Association of Funeral Services in Spain (PANASEF), member of UNE committee CTN 190 - Funeral services and cemetery management for developing standards for the funeral sector and teacher at “Universidad Autónoma de Madrid” in economics and legislation for the Funeral Sector. In 2015 attended a training in the Center for Loss & Life Transition and since that he become and advocate of Dr. Allan Wolfelt.

Miguel married Cecilia in May 1999 and are the proud parents of three girls. He loves traveling, cooking paella, sharing stories, reading, running and fitness.

Patricia Ramon : VP Finance

Patricia Ramon

VP Finance

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Patricia Ramon

VP Finance

Patricia is a skilled Production Engineer with more than 28 years of various experience in quality control. After moving to the United States, she decided to further her education, in Finance, to get involved with small businesses and to help establish organizations for growth. Patricia is also certified in International Standard Organizations 9000.

She has been with ASV Partners and Southern Cremations & Funerals for two years and is proud to be part of an organization that serves families in their time of need. She is a soccer mom that enjoys the outdoors, running, and exercising in her down time.

Brian Thorp : Vice President – Human Resources & Compliance

Brian Thorp

Vice President – Human Resources & Compliance

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Brian Thorp

Vice President – Human Resources & Compliance

Brian has 20+ years of retail Business and Human Resources management experience and has been employed with ASV Partners, LLC for two years. He has a Master of Business Administration, Organizational Leadership from Keiser University and a Bachelor of Business Administration and Management from Kaplan University. Brian likes to help people, giving them the tools and resources to flourish in life. He feels working in Human Resources enables him to not only give them those toos, but be part of their growth and development. "This industry is all about the people we interact with on a daily basis, and I love being a part of that!"

Brian has a fur baby named Chloe. He enjoys getting outdoors and seeing what life has to offer. His parents, grandmother and two siblings (with their families) all live in the same area and they enjoy getting together for family dinners/get togethers.

Lisa Barker : Accounting Director

Lisa Barker

Accounting Director

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Lisa Barker

Accounting Director

Lisa has a multitude of service experience across varying industries spanning all ages and walks of life. She graduated with an Associates of Arts degree in Business Administration in 2019 and started with the company 4 years ago as a Funeral Admin. The care and passion to lend an ear and a hand during others’ times of need shows through her mission statement of cherishing hard work and enjoying the service to others because our industry is a 24-hour calling and our families deserve our best at all times. She encourages operations as a collaborative effort to best meet our families’ needs.

When not at work, Lisa spends time with her Best Friend and Husband, Melvin and their 6 children ranging from toddlers to adults. She also plays tennis, research’s for fun, and travels home to Ohio every other year to spend time with family.

Michelle Pittman : General Manager and Licensed Funeral Director/Embalmer- Marietta

Michelle Pittman

General Manager and Licensed Funeral Director/Embalmer- Marietta

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Michelle Pittman

General Manager and Licensed Funeral Director/Embalmer- Marietta

Michelle Pittman is a licensed funeral director and embalmer in Georgia. She graduated from Gupton Jones College of Funeral Service, and through her many years of experience in the dental and fitness industries, Michelle has enhanced her skills in client care and service.

Michelle is dedicated to providing compassionate care for families and honoring the lives of their loved ones. Her friendly nature and meticulous attention to detail help ease the stress of funeral planning. With a deep respect for all cultural traditions, she ensures that every service is conducted with the utmost compassion and dignity. Michelle is committed to assisting families in creating personalized experiences to memorialize and celebrate their loved ones.

Miracle Randall : Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer- Marietta

Miracle Randall

Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer- Marietta

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Miracle Randall

Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer- Marietta

Miracle Randall is a licensed funeral service professional in South Carolina and Georgia. She earned her Associate's Degree from Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Services in September 2017 and is currently pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration. Raised in a small town in South Carolina, Miracle is deeply committed to serving families with compassion and care. Beyond her professional life, she cherishes the beauty and fulfillment of motherhood.

John Baranchak : Family Service Counselor- Marietta

John Baranchak

Family Service Counselor- Marietta

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John Baranchak

Family Service Counselor- Marietta

John was born and raised outside of Pittsburgh in Butler, PA. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Indiana University of PA (IUP). His extensive sales background included owning and operating his own business after college, financial sales and management for Fortune 100 and 500 companies, and his current position as Family Service Counselor Manager.

John has earned numerous accolades across various industries, including being honored in 2021 as one of the top professionals in the country for his work in helping individuals and families manage their funeral and cemetery needs. He credits his success to genuinely caring about the families he has had the privilege to work with. On a personal note, John has two sons whom he is very proud of.

Kevin Baker : Pre-Need Funeral Services and Cemetery Specialist- Marietta

Kevin Baker

Pre-Need Funeral Services and Cemetery Specialist- Marietta

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Kevin Baker

Pre-Need Funeral Services and Cemetery Specialist- Marietta

Kevin Baker is a native of Atlanta, graduating from Kennesaw State University with a Bachelor of Science and Arts in Political Science and American History. He has a background in sales, ranging from movies to fashion design. He is a historian with the City of Roswell and holds memberships in various volunteer agencies across the nation. He currently resides in Roswell with his wife and daughter.

Marcquis Phillips : General Manager– Fairburn and McDonough

Marcquis Phillips

General Manager– Fairburn and McDonough

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Marcquis Phillips

General Manager– Fairburn and McDonough

Since a young man Marcquis has been interested in the science of embalming. Upon obtaining his bachelor's degree in business administration from Shaw University in Raleigh, NC, he came to Georgia to attend Gupton Jones College of Funeral Services. After graduating with an associate degree in Applied Science in Funeral Service in 2017, he has remained in funeral service. Once he completed his apprenticeship, he became licensed as a funeral director and embalmer in the state of Georgia. Marcquis has a genuine passion for serving families in their time of need and does everything in his power to serve his families in the most dignified and professional way possible.

Marcquis has a daughter that he loves dearly and would do anything for. He likes to relax and enjoy life, being grateful for each day. Making a positive light for a family that is going through a tough time is what Marcquis strives to do every day.

Dorsey Thomas : Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer- McDonough

Dorsey Thomas

Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer- McDonough

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Dorsey Thomas

Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer- McDonough

Dorsey Thomas is a compassionate and experienced funeral professional with a deep understanding of end-of-life care. He holds an Associate's Degree in Applied Science of Funeral Services and a Bachelor's Degree in Funeral Service Management. Dorsey is a certified Death Doula and Thanatologoist in the state of Georgia. His commitment to providing compassionate and personalized care extends beyond traditional funeral services.

Dorsey believes in empowering families during difficult times by offering support and guidance through open communication of end-of-life planning. When he isn't working, Dorsey enjoys spending time with his family, fishing, and working on his collection of classic cars.

Karryla Ramos : Family Service Counselor/Memorial Coordinator- McDonough

Karryla Ramos

Family Service Counselor/Memorial Coordinator- McDonough

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Karryla Ramos

Family Service Counselor/Memorial Coordinator- McDonough

BIO COMING SOON

Tiffani Baum : Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer- Fairburn

Tiffani Baum

Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer- Fairburn

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Tiffani Baum

Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer- Fairburn

Tiffani Baum is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer, with a heartfelt commitment to helping families through one of the most challenging moments in their lives- the loss of a loved one. Tiffani's calling to this field came later in life, driven by a deep desire to offer comfort and support to those navigating the difficult decisions that accompany the death of a family member. She strives to ease the stress of final arrangements, ensuring that every family she works with feels cared for and understood.

Tiffani is a proud graduate of Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service, where she earned her degree as a Mu Sigma Alpha graduate. Her professional qualifications also include certification as a Crematory Operator, further expanding her expertise in the funeral industry.

Outside of her professional life, Tiffani is a loving mother to two children and a devoted wife to her supportive husband, who has been instrumental in her career, even assisting at the funeral home when needed. Together, they share a family home with six beloved fur babies- four dogs and two cats- who bring joy and warmth to their lives.

In her free time, Tiffani enjoys crafting in all forms, finding peace and creativity in a variety of artistic endeavors.

Tiffani's unique blend of compassion, professionalism, and personal commitment ensures that every family she serves is treated with the utmost care and respect during their most difficult time.

CJ Powell : Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer- Fairburn

CJ Powell

Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer- Fairburn

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CJ Powell

Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer- Fairburn

With more than 20 years of dedicated service in the funeral profession, CJ Powell is a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer in both Georgia and South Carolina. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to upholding the highest standards of care, dignity, and professionalism for the families he serves.

CJ’s experience spans all aspects of funeral service, including embalming, restorative art, arrangements, and directing meaningful ceremonies that honor each life with respect and compassion. Known for his steady presence and attention to detail, he takes pride in guiding families through difficult moments with clarity, empathy, and integrity.

His passion for the profession is rooted in a deep respect for both the deceased and the loved ones they leave behind, ensuring every service reflects honor, care, and excellence.

Jason Lewis : Family Service Counselor- Fairburn

Jason Lewis

Family Service Counselor- Fairburn

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Jason Lewis

Family Service Counselor- Fairburn

Dedicated Family Service Counselor with a passion for helping families create lasting legacies through compassionate and thoughtful planning. As a loving husband and proud father of four daughters, "my greatest achievement", he brings empathy, integrity, and genuine care to every interaction. Currently finishing a bachelor's degree in accounting and finance, he combines strong interpersonal skills with a growing foundation in financial principles to ensure families feel supported, informed, and at peace throughout the process.

Mercedes Farinas : Multicultural Liaison

Mercedes Farinas

Multicultural Liaison

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Mercedes Farinas

Multicultural Liaison

Mercedes was born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela. In 2018, she left her hometown and relocated to Buenos Aires, Argentina, where she lived for five years. In 2023, she and her mother, along with her daughter, made a new home in the United States.

With a degree in Industrial Engineering, she boasts over 20 years of experience across various industries, including logistics, customer service, audiovisual, industrial pumps, healthcare software, pharmaceuticals, and wine. She has always focused on customer satisfaction, continuously seeking ways to improve service delivery in productive and efficient ways.

In September 2024, Mercedes joined Southern Cremations and Funerals, where her bilingual skills- fluent in both Spanish and English- play a crucial role in bridging the language gap between families and the funeral home. She enjoys connecting with people from diverse backgrounds, listening to their unique stories, and offering guidance to help them navigate death-related matters with compassion and ease.

Outside of work, she has a deep passion for music, cooking, traveling, and most importantly, spending quality time with her family and friends. She shares a special bond with her daughter, who, after just three months in the United States, has successfully learned English and is now preparing to enter middle school, showcasing her resilience and adaptability.