The Deathwives

At The Deathwives, we are revitalizing the sacred art of deathwork and propelling it to new heights through robust courses, trainings, doula certification programs, educational initiatives, and events. We are passionate about carrying the wellspring of end-of-life wisdom into the modern age and empowering a new generation of death workers who champion environmentally-sustainable standards and help others navigate the end of life with dignity, compassion, and support. We embrace a teaching model informed by diverse cross-cultural practices, grounding our approach in the timeless wisdom of end-of-life traditions while also prioritizing innovative and responsible stewardship of our planet. We believe in community-based deathcare models that recognize relationship and care as integral foundations for an equitable end-of-life experience. Deathwives co-founders Lauren Carroll and Erin Merelli are seasoned deathworkers and teachers who are pioneering a paradigm shift in the way society talks about death, dying, and grief. As thought leaders in the death-positive movement, they lead transformative experiences that invite audiences into candid conversations around mortality. Within these safe, compassionate containers, the duality of life and death is explored, grief is unearthed, the uncomfortable becomes accessible, and inner healing takes root. At the heart of The Deathwives' ethos lies community. Their inner circle, known as Deathfolx, has come to be recognized globally as a nurturing space for professional deathworkers and grievers alike. This membership fosters an environment where deathwork flourishes, death doulas unite, mentorship blossoms, and equitable care is realized. The Deathwives' mission and expansive vision are fueling the emergence of a generative world where death and dying are met with the same reverence as life's journey itself, our grief is deeply honored, and and collective care extends to ourselves, one another, and our Mother Earth.