Arlillian Kate Bushelon
MBA · CFSP · CFSGM
Funeral service executive, nationally recognized leader, and passionate advocate for advancing the funeral profession through innovation, service, and collaboration.
A native of Birmingham, Alabama — daughter of the late Aubrey Bushelon, founder of Bushelon Funeral Home, Inc., and Mrs. LeVoria O. Bushelon, President and Owner.
"It's not about what I can do to make this organization successful… it's about what we can build together."
A foundation built on discipline and study.
An Honors Graduate of George Washington Carver High School, Arlillian has spent two decades preparing — academically and professionally — to serve at every level of funeral service.
- Bachelor of Business Administration, Marketing — Clark Atlanta University
- Master of Business Administration, Management — Strayer University
- Associate of Applied Science, Mortuary Science — Jefferson State Community College
- Licensed Funeral Director & Embalmer (15 years)
- Certified Funeral Service Practitioner (CFSP)
- Certified Funeral Service General Manager (CFSGM)
- Certified Cremation Operator
Eleven years leading one of Alabama's most respected firms.
For the past eleven years, Arlillian has managed the daily operations of Bushelon Funeral Home, Inc. As Secretary and Treasurer, she has led the firm's strategic operations, marketing, business development, and community engagement — preserving and expanding the legacy established by her father in 1976.
Under her leadership, Bushelon Funeral Home has been recognized as CommunityVotes Birmingham's Best Funeral Home for five consecutive years.
Strong businesses should strengthen the communities they serve.
Arlillian founded the West End Food Truck Park, an initiative designed to support predominantly Black-owned small businesses while reinvesting proceeds into the surrounding community.
Funding has supported educational initiatives, school technology, financial literacy programs for students, youth athletics, health clinics, and scholarships.
A proven record. A trusted voice.
Arlillian previously served as President of the Alabama Funeral Directors & Morticians Association, Alabama State Secretary, and District V Governor for the NFDMA — demonstrating a consistent record of successful organizational leadership.
- Chairman, Alabama Funeral Directors & Morticians Association
- Social Media Chair, National Funeral Directors & Morticians Association, Inc.
- National Site Selection Committee, NFDMA
- Secretary & Treasurer, Bushelon Funeral Home, Inc.
- Public Relations Chair, Tri-County (AL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated
- Board Member, Urban League of Alabama
- Board Member, National Museum of Funeral History
Honored at home. Recognized nationally.
Selected as the cover feature of American Funeral Director magazine — an internationally circulated publication highlighting leaders shaping the future of funeral service.
- Cover Feature — American Funeral Director magazine
- Runner-Up, Funeral Director of the Year — American Funeral Director
- Birmingham Business Journal 40 Under 40
- The Birmingham Times Woman to Watch
- Urban League Empower Her Impact Award for Business
- This is Alabama: Women Who Shape the State
- Spa Boss Tribe Alabama Humanitarian of the Year
- CommunityVotes Birmingham's Best Funeral Home — 5 consecutive years
- Lifetime Member & Gold Award — Girl Scouts of America
Integrity. Accountability. Collaboration. Service.
As a candidate for President of the National Funeral Directors & Morticians Association, Inc., Arlillian is committed to increasing member engagement, expanding educational opportunities, strengthening partnerships, preserving the Association's rich legacy, and positioning it for an even stronger future.