The Casket and Funeral Supply Association (CFSA) is proud to announce that Betsy VerPlank-Kerl, President of VerPlank Enterprises, Inc., received the prestigious Audrey Thacker Women of Excellence Award during the 2025 CFSA Annual Conference in Cleveland, OH April 4-6.
Betsy VerPlank-Kerl’s career in the casket industry spans over two decades, during which she has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and a deep commitment to her family business. Starting in 1994, she worked in various roles within VerPlank Enterprises, Inc., eventually becoming President in 2012. Her leadership has been instrumental in the company’s continued success.
Before joining the casket industry, Betsy VerPlank-Kerl pursued a career in interior design. A college art major, she gained practical experience through an interior design internship in New York City. She was so passionate about this field that she returned to work there full-time after graduating from college, spending six years in the city.
In 1994, Betsy’s father, Joel VerPlank, started a new business, VerPlank Enterprises, Inc., in Iron City, TN. He invited Betsy to join the company, and after some consideration, she decided to leave her interior design career in New York City to embark on a new adventure in the casket business.
CFSA Chief Executive Officer Timothy Murphy CAE shared his thoughts on the awardee: “Betsy VerPlank-Kerl represents the best of our industry. She has not only led VerPlank Enterprises with distinction, building on a strong family legacy, but she has also balanced that with a deep commitment to her family. Her dedication and achievements make her a truly deserving recipient of the Audrey Thacker Women of Excellence Award. We are honored to recognize her contributions.”
The Audrey Thacker Women of Excellence Award recognizes women who have made significant contributions to the casket and funeral supply industry. Betsy VerPlank-Kerl’s dedication to her work, her family, and her industry make her a deserving recipient.