Text & cover photo by Michael Dumas

The Mobile Chamber is gearing up for its annual celebration of minority businesses, known for three decades as the Eagle Awards. This year’s accolades highlight the entrepreneurship of individuals specializing in a variety of industries, from home and business climate to compassionate end-of-life care to the communal celebration that is live music.

Eagle Awards Hall of Fame Winner: Small’s Mortuary and Cremation Services

This year’s sole Hall of Fame inductee is an industry leader that has twice before been awarded Eagle Awards, in 2018 and 2021. In its 23rd year of operation, Small’s Mortuary and Cremation Services has more than 50 employees and operates four full-service funeral homes in Mobile, Daphne and Mt. Vernon, as well as its latest venture, Gulf Coast Cremation and Funerals by Small’s.Owned and operated by longtime Mobile City Councilman C.J. Small, the company stands as a testament to his goals of being a role model for African-Americans in south Alabama and beyond.

“It’s such a privilege to receive our third Eagle Award,” Small said. “Many African-Americans have

the disadvantage of not having high hopes and dreams, and it is a blessing to let people know that no matter where you come from, you can expand your thinking and truly achieve greatness through your businesses.”

When he decided to open his first funeral home, Small chose a location in the heart of the Oakdale community on South Broad Street, close to those he was dedicated to serving. “The company really relies on our connections to the community and the personal touch of knowing so many of the people we serve,” Small said. “They support us, and it’s very important to give a lot back to the community.”

Those connections directly led to the creation of Gulf Coast Cremations and Funerals by Small’s, he said. Realizing there were still many families who couldn’t afford the services offered by his primary company, he created a brand which still provides the dignity and compassion Small’s has been known for, but at a lesser cost.

Another significant point of growth for Small’s is its new digital interface, which allows customers to make all their choices and book services through the company’s website.  “We realize some of our customers are very tech savvy, so they won’t have to leave the comfort of their living rooms to make all the arrangements and everything,” Small said.

2024 Eagle Awards Luncheon

The recipients will be honored during the 2024 Eagle Awards at the Battle House Hotel on October 11, which will feature training sessions and a luncheon featuring keynote educational speaker Cheryl Grace.

Tickets are available now by clicking here. Darrell Randle, the Mobile Chamber’s vice president of Small Business Development, said the lasting legacy of the Eagle Awards is a testament to the strength of the businesses it recognizes.

 

Cover photo: Michael Dumas