The Maryland State Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors has summarily suspended the crematory permit for Heaven Bound Cremation Services, LLC, citing significant public health and safety concerns. The emergency action, effective immediately, follows findings of improper handling and storage of human remains at the White Plains facility.
The Board exercised its authority under Maryland Code Ann., State Gov’t §10-226(c), declaring that urgent intervention was necessary to protect public welfare.
Investigative Findings and Background
According to the Board, Heaven Bound Cremation Services was first issued a crematory permit (CR0037) in December 2016, valid through September 30, 2026. Owned by Rosa Williams and Brandon Williams, the crematory has faced repeated regulatory and statutory violations, including mishandling of remains and unsanitary conditions.
Rosa Williams, under operator registration number RC184, became the sole owner of the crematory in December 2016. Brandon Williams joined as a part-owner in June 2018, operating under registration number RC245. Both individuals have been disciplined previously for violations related to improper storage of human remains.
Prior Disciplinary Actions
In December 2017, the Board received complaints of improper storage practices at the crematory. During the ensuing investigation, Rosa Williams admitted in writing that cremains had not been disposed of properly. Following a 2019 evidentiary hearing, the Board determined that Williams had violated multiple regulations, including commingling cremains and storing remains with biohazard waste.
The Board reprimanded Williams, fined her, and placed her operator registration on probation for one year with conditions, including ethics training and supervised practice. Subsequent noncompliance led to a two-year probation term beginning in January 2021.
A 2024 inspection revealed further violations, including remains stored in ripped body bags, stacked bodies, and unsanitary conditions. Both owners entered into consent orders in September 2024. Rosa Williams faced a 10-day suspension and was fined $2,000, while Brandon Williams was placed on probation and required to complete recertification courses.
Recent Inspections and Emergency Action
On January 10, 2025, a Board investigator conducted another inspection, uncovering severe issues at the crematory, including:
- A non-operational cremation chamber leading to accumulation of human remains.
- Bodies stored in unsealed boxes and ripped body bags, exposing body parts.
- At least 18 bodies stored at temperatures exceeding 40°F.
- Evidence of decomposition, including strong odors, flies, and bodily fluids on the floor.
One decomposing body had reportedly remained at the facility since March 2024. The Charles County Department of Health classified the conditions as a public health hazard and issued an order to abate the violations.
Immediate Suspension and Public Notice
The Board’s order for summary suspension requires Heaven Bound Cremation Services to surrender its crematory permit. The suspension remains in effect pending a non-evidentiary show-cause hearing, should the crematory request one within 30 days. If no hearing is requested or the crematory fails to justify its practices, the suspension will continue.
The Board has emphasized its commitment to ensuring compliance with laws governing the respectful and hygienic handling of human remains. This order has been made public under Maryland law.