Certified Death Doula Beth Montgomery will conduct Death, Dying & Grief: An Honest Conversation (DDG), at 11 a.m., April 26, at The Englewood. The event features four expert presenters—each offering valuable insights on death, dying and grief—followed by dedicated Q&A sessions. Attendees can also explore resources from local community vendors and sponsors, and those registered will enjoy a complimentary lunch.

 

Montgomery says, “This gathering is a community-oriented event aimed at bringing conversations about death, dying and grief into a comfortable, even celebratory space—a concert venue. Attendees can enjoy free food, live music and interactive presentations while accessing valuable resources on end-of-life issues. By combining education with entertainment, it breaks the taboo around these subjects, offering a safe, supportive environment where participants can learn, connect, and share experiences.” The presence of Natural Awakenings magazine further ensures attendees have access to expert insights and tools for navigating end-of-life matters.

 

“In January 2024, I approached my friend Rachel Schwab about organizing an educational event where professionals could speak on death, dying and grief,” explains Montgomery. “We wanted a welcoming place where the community could learn, gather resources and hold genuine conversations about these often-avoided topics. My motivation stemmed from a requirement in my death doula certification to host an educational event or Death Café.”

 

She held her first Death Café on October 13, 2023, at Metropolis, in Mechanicsburg, revealing a strong need for open, stigma-free dialogue. Building on her community group leadership experience, Montgomery introduced An Honest Conversation, leading to the creation of DDG. “Where else can you talk to a funeral director, hospice team, estate cleaning services, alternative grief support professionals and local community members all in one welcoming environment while enjoying some incredible food?” she asks.

 

“The event’s primary purpose is to remind everyone that they don’t have to face loss alone. It’s a community-driven gathering where people can connect, share their experiences and support each other through grief. By opening up the conversation around death, dying, and grief—topics often considered too heavy or scary—we’re creating a safe, welcoming environment.”

 

Last year’s inaugural event drew more than 150 attendees and sparked numerous meaningful discussions. “Building on that momentum, I established a monthly Death Café in central Pennsylvania to provide an ongoing, safe space for these conversations year-round,” she says.

 

Montgomery plans to continue hosting annual in-person gatherings during the same timeframe as National Death Doula and Healthcare Decisions day/week. “I would like to create an online DDG event to accommodate individuals who cannot travel or face physical limitations. Eventually, I aim to expand and organize additional DDG events throughout the country, making these important conversations accessible to more people.”

 

Location: 1219 West End Ave., Hummelstown. For more information, visit DeathDoulaBeth.com/deathdyingandgriefevent.