Brad Billings
Owner and Funeral Director
30 Year Pin Recipient, 2013
Indiana Funeral Directors Association (IFDA)
The Billings family has served the greater Elkhart community for over seventy-nine years ( my father, Dr. Elmer R. Billings 1922-2010) in care-giving capacities, and we intend to continue for many years to come. Our vision at the funeral home is to continue building lasting relationships with families. After twenty nine years, I am increasingly grateful for the new family and friends that walk through our doors. We become so involved at such a critical and sensitive time in people's lives, that true friendships are formed between us all.
What an honor and privilege I have serving my families, in the city I love, and the many neighbors and friends I care about. Every single day I am enriched by these life stories. I have one-on-one and face-to-face contact with amazing people; people who are stronger than they realize. People who possess conviction and a desire to remain on course. That's where we come in - I want Billings to be known for being fair, honest, and having a can-do attitude. There is nothing that we won't do to go the extra mile in providing service and treating you as we would our own family.
We pride ourselves on being one of the most reasonably priced funeral homes in the area, although many expect our charges to be much higher given our level of professionalism, the quality of our facilities, and our ethical standards. Consumers and families finally can learn first hand that there is a difference in the service we provide and they do not need to fall into the trap of traditional loyalty many funeral homes attempt to count on. Today, being good is not good enough.
In addition, we are so proud to be chosen as a Veterans & Family Memorial Care provider; to be able to serve our veterans, our heroes, is an honor!
Brad Billings
Owner and Funeral Director
30 Year Pin Recipient, 2013
Indiana Funeral Directors Association (IFDA)
The Billings family has served the greater Elkhart community for over seventy-nine years ( my father, Dr. Elmer R. Billings 1922-2010) in care-giving capacities, and we intend to continue for many years to come. Our vision at the funeral home is to continue building lasting relationships with families. After twenty nine years, I am increasingly grateful for the new family and friends that walk through our doors. We become so involved at such a critical and sensitive time in people's lives, that true friendships are formed between us all.
What an honor and privilege I have serving my families, in the city I love, and the many neighbors and friends I care about. Every single day I am enriched by these life stories. I have one-on-one and face-to-face contact with amazing people; people who are stronger than they realize. People who possess conviction and a desire to remain on course. That's where we come in - I want Billings to be known for being fair, honest, and having a can-do attitude. There is nothing that we won't do to go the extra mile in providing service and treating you as we would our own family.
We pride ourselves on being one of the most reasonably priced funeral homes in the area, although many expect our charges to be much higher given our level of professionalism, the quality of our facilities, and our ethical standards. Consumers and families finally can learn first hand that there is a difference in the service we provide and they do not need to fall into the trap of traditional loyalty many funeral homes attempt to count on. Today, being good is not good enough.
In addition, we are so proud to be chosen as a Veterans & Family Memorial Care provider; to be able to serve our veterans, our heroes, is an honor!
Jo B. Johnston
Funeral Director
It’s hard for me to believe that more than twenty years have passed since I became a licensed funeral director, following my education at Franklin College and Mid-America College of Funeral Service after my early years at Culver Military Academy. Originally from southeastern Indiana, I have called Elkhart home since 1990. Each day, I feel a deep calling to be present for families experiencing the loss of a loved one and to respond with compassion when they turn to us.
One of the things I value most about serving as a director at Billings is the freedom we have to meet the unique needs of every family—both emotionally and financially. Providing this higher standard of care is far more attainable in a family-owned and operated funeral home than in a large corporation. Every family has specific expectations, and it is much easier to honor their wishes when we are not restricted by corporate guidelines. At Billings, each family receives individual attention, and celebrating a life lived remains central to our philosophy.
I am blessed with three children and two grandchildren, and my respect for the men and women who serve our country has grown even deeper through my son’s service in the U.S. Army. It is truly an honor and privilege to serve our veterans with the dignity they deserve in their final tribute.
Jo B. Johnston
Funeral Director
It’s hard for me to believe that more than twenty years have passed since I became a licensed funeral director, following my education at Franklin College and Mid-America College of Funeral Service after my early years at Culver Military Academy. Originally from southeastern Indiana, I have called Elkhart home since 1990. Each day, I feel a deep calling to be present for families experiencing the loss of a loved one and to respond with compassion when they turn to us.
One of the things I value most about serving as a director at Billings is the freedom we have to meet the unique needs of every family—both emotionally and financially. Providing this higher standard of care is far more attainable in a family-owned and operated funeral home than in a large corporation. Every family has specific expectations, and it is much easier to honor their wishes when we are not restricted by corporate guidelines. At Billings, each family receives individual attention, and celebrating a life lived remains central to our philosophy.
I am blessed with three children and two grandchildren, and my respect for the men and women who serve our country has grown even deeper through my son’s service in the U.S. Army. It is truly an honor and privilege to serve our veterans with the dignity they deserve in their final tribute.
Bill Gill
Funeral Director
I am truly a product of the American dream. My father, who served in the U.S. Navy, met my mother in the Philippines during the Vietnam War, and not long after, I was born here in the United States.
Originally from Michigan, I grew up in a blue-collar Detroit neighborhood and later moved throughout the Midwest. I’m proud to say that meeting people from all walks of life has shaped me into the person I am today. After graduating from Michigan’s only mortuary school, Wayne State University, I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Mortuary Science. I am licensed to practice funeral service in both Michigan and Indiana.
In my free time, I’m often involved with my church family at Granger Community Church. Serving both the Lord and the community brings me great joy, and I’ve had the privilege of volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and 4Michiana. I’m also an active member of Christian Business Fellowship and the Northern Indiana Funeral Directors Association.
Working at Billings Funeral Home—recognized as Elkhart’s Best Funeral Home—has been a true blessing. Brad, Jo, Dorinda, and the entire staff genuinely put families first. What convinced me to stay was witnessing how every grieving family is cared for as if they were our own. My coworkers have become more than just my “work family,” and Michiana has become more than just where I live. I look forward to serving Elkhart and the surrounding communities for many years to come.
I love making people laugh and helping them feel at ease with a calm and steady presence. I’ve been told that my ability to relate to others comes from growing up around diverse communities and people of many faiths. I truly believe God planted me here in Michiana for a purpose.
When I’m not working, you’ll find me enjoying time with my wife, Mary, and our son, Marco—whether traveling across the country (or the world) or relaxing by the pool. I also enjoy working in my yard, cheering on my often-frustrating Detroit sports teams, following professional soccer, and attending Notre Dame hockey games. In quieter moments, I love listening to motivational podcasts, watching independent films, and collecting all things pop culture.
Bill Gill
Funeral Director
I am truly a product of the American dream. My father, who served in the U.S. Navy, met my mother in the Philippines during the Vietnam War, and not long after, I was born here in the United States.
Originally from Michigan, I grew up in a blue-collar Detroit neighborhood and later moved throughout the Midwest. I’m proud to say that meeting people from all walks of life has shaped me into the person I am today. After graduating from Michigan’s only mortuary school, Wayne State University, I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Mortuary Science. I am licensed to practice funeral service in both Michigan and Indiana.
In my free time, I’m often involved with my church family at Granger Community Church. Serving both the Lord and the community brings me great joy, and I’ve had the privilege of volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and 4Michiana. I’m also an active member of Christian Business Fellowship and the Northern Indiana Funeral Directors Association.
Working at Billings Funeral Home—recognized as Elkhart’s Best Funeral Home—has been a true blessing. Brad, Jo, Dorinda, and the entire staff genuinely put families first. What convinced me to stay was witnessing how every grieving family is cared for as if they were our own. My coworkers have become more than just my “work family,” and Michiana has become more than just where I live. I look forward to serving Elkhart and the surrounding communities for many years to come.
I love making people laugh and helping them feel at ease with a calm and steady presence. I’ve been told that my ability to relate to others comes from growing up around diverse communities and people of many faiths. I truly believe God planted me here in Michiana for a purpose.
When I’m not working, you’ll find me enjoying time with my wife, Mary, and our son, Marco—whether traveling across the country (or the world) or relaxing by the pool. I also enjoy working in my yard, cheering on my often-frustrating Detroit sports teams, following professional soccer, and attending Notre Dame hockey games. In quieter moments, I love listening to motivational podcasts, watching independent films, and collecting all things pop culture.
Dorinda Dietz
Funeral Director
I have been a licensed funeral director since the summer of 2018, and I strive to serve every family with the utmost respect, compassion, and care. I have always had a heart for helping others and a desire to lead through service. Although I originally planned to become a medical surgeon, after much prayer and reflection, I felt a strong calling to the funeral profession and chose to pursue this ministry wholeheartedly.
In 2017, I graduated with high honors from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis with an associate degree in Mortuary Science. The following year, I earned a second associate degree in Business Administration, also with high honors, and was an active member of my college’s Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society chapter. I attend St. Thomas of the Apostle Catholic Church in Elkhart, where I married the love of my life, Lucas Dietz. Together, we have been blessed with our sweet son, Kaspar Dietz, born in February 2023.
I am committed to serving every family equally, regardless of their race, religion, background, or lifestyle. Helping those in need has always been a meaningful part of my life, and I carry with me the message from Matthew 25:40–45: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Working at Billings has allowed me to fully embrace my calling as a funeral director, and I feel truly honored and blessed to serve the families of Elkhart County.
Dorinda Dietz
Funeral Director
I have been a licensed funeral director since the summer of 2018, and I strive to serve every family with the utmost respect, compassion, and care. I have always had a heart for helping others and a desire to lead through service. Although I originally planned to become a medical surgeon, after much prayer and reflection, I felt a strong calling to the funeral profession and chose to pursue this ministry wholeheartedly.
In 2017, I graduated with high honors from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis with an associate degree in Mortuary Science. The following year, I earned a second associate degree in Business Administration, also with high honors, and was an active member of my college’s Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society chapter. I attend St. Thomas of the Apostle Catholic Church in Elkhart, where I married the love of my life, Lucas Dietz. Together, we have been blessed with our sweet son, Kaspar Dietz, born in February 2023.
I am committed to serving every family equally, regardless of their race, religion, background, or lifestyle. Helping those in need has always been a meaningful part of my life, and I carry with me the message from Matthew 25:40–45: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Working at Billings has allowed me to fully embrace my calling as a funeral director, and I feel truly honored and blessed to serve the families of Elkhart County.
Brad McIntire
Altera Cremation Manager
I have followed Brad Billings and his work at Billings Funeral Home for many years, and I truly admire what he has built. The way he and the staff care for families during their most difficult moments speaks volumes about their values. Brad has served this community well, continually giving back and evolving the business in meaningful ways. The environment at Billings is respectful, professional, and warm—centered on the belief that every funeral should be personal, memorable, dignified, and affordable.
In my role as Altera Cremation Manager, I oversee Altera, a subsidiary of Billings created for families who prefer cremation—a choice now made by roughly 55% of Indiana residents. I am a compassionate person by nature, and it is an honor to support families who come together during times of loss. As of July 2014, I am proud to have completed the CCO Program™ through the National Funeral Directors Association in Brookfield, Wisconsin. Earning the Certified Crematory Operator designation has allowed me to better serve families who choose cremation.
I was born and raised in nearby Shipshewana and graduated from International Business School in Fort Wayne. I have been happily married to my wife, Pam, for 30 years. Together we raised two wonderful children and now enjoy the joy and blessing of four lovely grandchildren.
Brad McIntire
Altera Cremation Manager
I have followed Brad Billings and his work at Billings Funeral Home for many years, and I truly admire what he has built. The way he and the staff care for families during their most difficult moments speaks volumes about their values. Brad has served this community well, continually giving back and evolving the business in meaningful ways. The environment at Billings is respectful, professional, and warm—centered on the belief that every funeral should be personal, memorable, dignified, and affordable.
In my role as Altera Cremation Manager, I oversee Altera, a subsidiary of Billings created for families who prefer cremation—a choice now made by roughly 55% of Indiana residents. I am a compassionate person by nature, and it is an honor to support families who come together during times of loss. As of July 2014, I am proud to have completed the CCO Program™ through the National Funeral Directors Association in Brookfield, Wisconsin. Earning the Certified Crematory Operator designation has allowed me to better serve families who choose cremation.
I was born and raised in nearby Shipshewana and graduated from International Business School in Fort Wayne. I have been happily married to my wife, Pam, for 30 years. Together we raised two wonderful children and now enjoy the joy and blessing of four lovely grandchildren.
Jeremy Sarber
Chaplain and Pre-Need Advisor
Twelve years is long enough to preach more than a thousand sermons, pastor two churches, and plant a third. Jeremy Sarber knows this firsthand—he’s done it. After serving as a Christian pastor and Bible teacher for twelve years, he sensed it was time to begin an indefinite sabbatical from that role and pursue a different kind of ministry: walking alongside families after the loss of a loved one.
Trading the tobacco fields of North Carolina for Indiana cornfields, Jeremy and his family returned to their hometown of Nappanee in the summer of 2019. Not long after, God’s providence connected him with the Billings Funeral Home family, where he is grateful to use his gifts to serve the people of Elkhart County. While death is often a difficult and sobering reality, Jeremy is thankful for every opportunity to help families grieve, remember, and even celebrate the life of someone they love.
Drawing from his experience in funeral service, preaching, counseling, community outreach, writing, and web development, Jeremy is honored to contribute to the thoughtful, compassionate, and personalized care provided by Brad, Jo, Dorinda, and the entire Billings Funeral Home team.
On a personal note—because life isn’t all work—Jeremy enjoys quiet evenings at home with his wife, Danae, and spending time with their children. When he gets a moment to himself, you’ll likely find him reading a good book, watching an Atlanta Braves game, listening to a Bob Dylan album, or writing simply for the joy of it.
Jeremy Sarber
Chaplain and Pre-Need Advisor
Twelve years is long enough to preach more than a thousand sermons, pastor two churches, and plant a third. Jeremy Sarber knows this firsthand—he’s done it. After serving as a Christian pastor and Bible teacher for twelve years, he sensed it was time to begin an indefinite sabbatical from that role and pursue a different kind of ministry: walking alongside families after the loss of a loved one.
Trading the tobacco fields of North Carolina for Indiana cornfields, Jeremy and his family returned to their hometown of Nappanee in the summer of 2019. Not long after, God’s providence connected him with the Billings Funeral Home family, where he is grateful to use his gifts to serve the people of Elkhart County. While death is often a difficult and sobering reality, Jeremy is thankful for every opportunity to help families grieve, remember, and even celebrate the life of someone they love.
Drawing from his experience in funeral service, preaching, counseling, community outreach, writing, and web development, Jeremy is honored to contribute to the thoughtful, compassionate, and personalized care provided by Brad, Jo, Dorinda, and the entire Billings Funeral Home team.
On a personal note—because life isn’t all work—Jeremy enjoys quiet evenings at home with his wife, Danae, and spending time with their children. When he gets a moment to himself, you’ll likely find him reading a good book, watching an Atlanta Braves game, listening to a Bob Dylan album, or writing simply for the joy of it.
Julie Thompson
Family Follow-Up
I have joined the Billings staff in the Family Follow-Up position, and I am grateful for the opportunity to offer support and comfort to families who are grieving. I am a lifelong Elkhart resident, graduating from Concord High School before earning my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from Ball State University and Indiana University.
In 2016, I retired from Elkhart Community Schools, where I served as a school social worker for 28 years in two elementary buildings. During my time there, I became part of a crisis-response team that developed protocols for responding to deaths and serious illnesses affecting students and staff, and I helped train response teams for each school. I also participated in numerous educational opportunities related to the grief process and was dedicated to providing bereavement counseling to students.
I have long admired Brad Billings and his staff, who have supported many of my family members and friends over the years. They were especially compassionate and helpful when my late husband passed away unexpectedly in 2001, and again when my mother passed in 2015. When I saw this position advertised, I knew it was the perfect fit, and I am proud to be part of the Billings “family.”
I live in Elkhart and enjoy spending time at our family lake cottage with our three grandchildren and extended family.
Julie Thompson
Family Follow-Up
I have joined the Billings staff in the Family Follow-Up position, and I am grateful for the opportunity to offer support and comfort to families who are grieving. I am a lifelong Elkhart resident, graduating from Concord High School before earning my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from Ball State University and Indiana University.
In 2016, I retired from Elkhart Community Schools, where I served as a school social worker for 28 years in two elementary buildings. During my time there, I became part of a crisis-response team that developed protocols for responding to deaths and serious illnesses affecting students and staff, and I helped train response teams for each school. I also participated in numerous educational opportunities related to the grief process and was dedicated to providing bereavement counseling to students.
I have long admired Brad Billings and his staff, who have supported many of my family members and friends over the years. They were especially compassionate and helpful when my late husband passed away unexpectedly in 2001, and again when my mother passed in 2015. When I saw this position advertised, I knew it was the perfect fit, and I am proud to be part of the Billings “family.”
I live in Elkhart and enjoy spending time at our family lake cottage with our three grandchildren and extended family.
Carla Forgey
Office Manager
As the Office Manager, I take on just about anything that needs to be done. From working closely with the funeral directors to handling the bookkeeping, I stay quite busy. In this role, I’ve discovered that my love for people runs even deeper than I ever realized. Part of that comes from the environment of the funeral home, but most of it comes from the families who walk through our doors—whether they are experiencing loss or planning ahead. I consider myself an extension of the care Billings provides, and I am truly grateful to serve in this capacity.
Several years ago, I experienced firsthand the compassion of Billings Funeral Home when they cared for me after the death of my fiancé. Brad Billings, Jo Johnston, and the entire staff guided me through every step with such attention to detail. They helped lift many burdens during one of the hardest times of my life.
I live in Elkhart and am a graduate of Elkhart Memorial High School.
I cannot express enough how happy I am to be part of the Billings team!
Carla Forgey
Office Manager
As the Office Manager, I take on just about anything that needs to be done. From working closely with the funeral directors to handling the bookkeeping, I stay quite busy. In this role, I’ve discovered that my love for people runs even deeper than I ever realized. Part of that comes from the environment of the funeral home, but most of it comes from the families who walk through our doors—whether they are experiencing loss or planning ahead. I consider myself an extension of the care Billings provides, and I am truly grateful to serve in this capacity.
Several years ago, I experienced firsthand the compassion of Billings Funeral Home when they cared for me after the death of my fiancé. Brad Billings, Jo Johnston, and the entire staff guided me through every step with such attention to detail. They helped lift many burdens during one of the hardest times of my life.
I live in Elkhart and am a graduate of Elkhart Memorial High School.
I cannot express enough how happy I am to be part of the Billings team!
Danny Rust
Maintenance / Groundskeeper
Danny E. Rust has been with Billings Funeral Home full-time for a little over a year, serving as the funeral home’s groundskeeper after completing 27 years of service as an Osolo Township firefighter. He is responsible for keeping the funeral home and its grounds well-maintained, updated, and in excellent repair.
Danny is a single parent with two adult children and three granddaughters. He enjoys woodworking, golfing, and spending time outdoors. He also loves being with his family and attending Riverview Baptist Church, where he has always felt surrounded by friends.
Helping others has always been important to Danny, and having the opportunity to support families by providing a clean, welcoming place to celebrate a loved one’s life makes him proud to be part of the Billings family.
Danny Rust
Maintenance / Groundskeeper
Danny E. Rust has been with Billings Funeral Home full-time for a little over a year, serving as the funeral home’s groundskeeper after completing 27 years of service as an Osolo Township firefighter. He is responsible for keeping the funeral home and its grounds well-maintained, updated, and in excellent repair.
Danny is a single parent with two adult children and three granddaughters. He enjoys woodworking, golfing, and spending time outdoors. He also loves being with his family and attending Riverview Baptist Church, where he has always felt surrounded by friends.
Helping others has always been important to Danny, and having the opportunity to support families by providing a clean, welcoming place to celebrate a loved one’s life makes him proud to be part of the Billings family.
Emily Studt
Funeral Assistant
Emily brings a fresh, compassionate perspective to Billings Funeral Home. A 2024 graduate of Elkhart High School, she joined our team through a year-long internship that began in 2023. Her dedication, attention to detail, and genuine care for others quickly made her an integral part of our family. Now, as a full-time staff member, we are excited to see her continue to flourish.
Eager to deepen her skills, Emily plans to attend mortuary school, driven by a desire to serve families with excellence and understanding. Her goal is to make a lasting impact on the community by offering comfort and support during life’s most difficult moments.
Outside of work, Emily’s creativity shines. Whether through fashion, makeup, or her love for thrift store finds, she enjoys expressing her unique style. Art and music are her constant companions, and she has a soft spot for animals, especially dogs.
With a blend of compassion, creativity, and a heart for service, Emily embodies the values of Billings Funeral Home. We are honored to have her on our team as she looks forward to continuing to care for and support our community with grace and empathy.
Emily Studt
Funeral Assistant
Emily brings a fresh, compassionate perspective to Billings Funeral Home. A 2024 graduate of Elkhart High School, she joined our team through a year-long internship that began in 2023. Her dedication, attention to detail, and genuine care for others quickly made her an integral part of our family. Now, as a full-time staff member, we are excited to see her continue to flourish.
Eager to deepen her skills, Emily plans to attend mortuary school, driven by a desire to serve families with excellence and understanding. Her goal is to make a lasting impact on the community by offering comfort and support during life’s most difficult moments.
Outside of work, Emily’s creativity shines. Whether through fashion, makeup, or her love for thrift store finds, she enjoys expressing her unique style. Art and music are her constant companions, and she has a soft spot for animals, especially dogs.
With a blend of compassion, creativity, and a heart for service, Emily embodies the values of Billings Funeral Home. We are honored to have her on our team as she looks forward to continuing to care for and support our community with grace and empathy.
Yesica Rojas
Receptionist
Yesica Rojas
Receptionist
