Mission, Vision and Values

Mission Statement

At Downing & Lahey Mortuaries and Crematory, our mission is to serve the families of Wichita before, during, and after their time of need with dignity, compassion, and respect. We are dedicated to honoring the wishes of those who have passed while guiding their loved ones through the first steps of their grief journey. Through the expertise of our funeral directors and the support of our staff, we provide thoughtful, personalized services marked by attention to detail, continuous learning, and the highest standards of care. We strive to educate our community, helping families understand their options and the importance of honoring life and memory.

Rooted in more than a century of service, and guided by five generations of the Morris family’s commitment to this calling, our family remains dedicated to supporting yours with compassion, integrity, and lasting care.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to continue serving our community with excellence while expanding our role as a trusted resource for education and guidance on death, grief, and remembrance. We aspire to build lasting relationships with the families we serve, extending beyond services and across generations. As we grow, we will remain committed to innovation and flexibility, meeting the evolving needs of today’s families while upholding the traditions and standards that define us.

We envision and strive for a future in which our team continues delivering meaningful, high-quality experiences, by taking the time to truly know each family and the life being honored, and finding thoughtful ways to serve with care and reverence. We strive to influence the future of our profession by educating our community and helping inspire and develop the next generation of funeral directors. Above all, we aim to build lasting relationships and a legacy that endures for generations, grounded in service, faith, compassion, and a deep commitment to caring for others.

Core Values

Compassion and Respect

We consider it our sacred duty to honor every life and care for each loved one with dignity and respect. For their family, that care is shown through compassion, understanding, and thoughtful guidance, providing confidence and peace of mind throughout their time of need.

Honesty and Integrity

We are committed to truthfulness and transparency in all we do, ensuring every decision is fair, ethical, and in the best interests of the families we serve.

Excellence and Dedication

We hold ourselves to the highest standards, continually improving our services, skills, and knowledge to better serve our community.

Communication and Understanding

We believe in open, thoughtful communication, especially during times of grief. We meet families where they are and provide guidance with clarity and care.

Service to Families and Community

We are devoted to supporting families through meaningful experiences and educating our community about the value of remembrance and healing.

Legacy and Commitment

For five generations, the Morris family has remained committed to serving Wichita families with compassion, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to excellence.

Innovation with Tradition

We embrace new ideas and evolving needs while honoring the traditions and values that define our profession.