Providing Memorable Funeral
and Memorial Services

Bill Pedersen

Family Service Manager

Bill Pedersen joined Forest Lawn East as a Family Service Manager in February 2023, after transferring from a Florida location. His career in the death care industry began over 35 years ago when he worked as a staff associate while attending mortuary school at Miami- Dade. He became a licensed Funeral Director in 1987, and a Family Service Manager in 2006. Other than a 4- year period teaching math and science to middle- schoolers, Bill’s entire career has been in the funeral industry. Mr. Pedersen earned his Bachelor’s degree from Florida Tech.

Derek Sullivan

Family Service Counselor

It is with great enthusiasm that I extend a warm welcome to Derek Sullivan as he joins our team here at Forest Lawn East Cemetery. Derek's wealth of experience in both the hospitality and real estate sectors promises to bring a new dimension of expertise to our already exceptional team. Derek's journey began in Syracuse, NY, Go Orange! He embarked on his educational path at the University of Buffalo, earning a Bachelor of Science in Economics while also leaving his mark on the club volleyball scene. His dedication and commitment to learning are evident in his accomplishments, including his real estate license and his role as the Broker in Charge of his own firm in the Carolinas. With a remarkable career spanning 37 years in the hospitality industry, Derek has honed his skills as a stellar communicator. His interactions with individuals from diverse backgrounds have undoubtedly shaped his ability to connect and collaborate effectively. Away from the professional sphere, Derek finds his grounding in his cherished family. His wife, Dawn, and their children, Hannah and Logan, provide a constant source of support and joy. When they are together, whether it's hiking, beach trips, or simply spending quality time together, it is the family time that means the most. Derek's commitment to the community shines through his involvement with various charitable organizations. His dedication to causes such as Samaritan's Feet, Red Cross, and Hearts for the Homeless - a local initiative in Charlotte close to his heart - underscores his values and his desire to make a positive impact in people's lives.

Phillip Van Poole

Family Service Counselor

Meet Phillip Alexander Van Poole, a compassionate change maker whose journey has been defined by a deep-rooted desire to help others. Starting with an upscale home service company, he alleviated the burdens of countless families. This drive for empowerment led him to assist small businesses in securing government contracts, catalyzing growth within the community. Today, as a family service counselor, Phillip provides solace and preplanning support during life's most challenging moments. His life's work showcases a remarkable fusion of empathy and entrepreneurship, inspiring all to create a more compassionate world.

Paul Martin-Fernandez

Family Service Counselor

Paul Martin-Fernandez's professional journey reflects a seamless blend of service-oriented roles. Starting in the service industry, he later founded a business aimed at aiding small enterprises. Now a Family Service Counselor at Forest Lawn East Cemetery, Paul leverages his extensive background to guide families in their final arrangements. His unique path underscores his adaptability, compassion, and unwavering commitment to helping both businesses and families navigate important life transitions.

Yerania Torres

I’m born and raised in PR, have a BA in Science-Biology, 2 years associate as a surgery technician, and worked more than 20 years in customer service. One of my passions is traveling, especially if the ocean is part of it. I got certified as a scuba diver back in 2011, and with this therapy, I have gained so many friends and memories throughout the world. In 2017 I moved to the state of Florida with my two daughters looking for a better life. Since April 2018 I started working with Carriage Services in the funeral and cemeteries industry. Over time and based on the experience I have gained; I have been able to identify that families will always need education and support to make the right decisions. I am here to answer all your questions, provide you with the necessary tools, show you our beautiful cemetery, the value, and benefits of making advance arrangements, guide you, and help you find the best solution that is within your budget. I believe that protecting your loved ones is an experience that will relieve your family at the worst moment of their life. Let me know about you, your family, and your wishes… Contact me anytime! I’ll be more than happy to help.

Visit www.prepaidfunerals.texas.gov for information relating to the purchase of pre-need funeral contracts including descriptions of the trust and insurance funding options available under state law.

All complaints must be in writing. Concerning the Prepaid Contract: Texas Department of Banking, 2601 North Lamar Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78705; 1-833/855-1820 (toll free); www.dob.texas.gov.

Complaints concerning perpetual care cemeteries should be directed to: Texas Department of Banking, 2601 North Lamar Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78705; 1-833/855-1820 (toll free); www.dob.texas.gov.

Visit www.prepaidfunerals.texas.gov for information relating to the purchase of pre-need funeral contracts including descriptions of the trust and insurance funding options available under state law.

All complaints must be in writing. Concerning the Prepaid Contract: Texas Department of Banking, 2601 North Lamar Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78705; 1-833/855-1820 (toll free); www.dob.texas.gov.

Complaints concerning perpetual care cemeteries should be directed to: Texas Department of Banking, 2601 North Lamar Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78705; 1-833/855-1820 (toll free); www.dob.texas.gov.

Meet Our Staff

Providing Memorable Funeraland Memorial Services

Bill Pedersen

Derek Sullivan

Phillip Van Poole

Paul Martin-Fernandez

Yerania Torres

Providing Memorable Funeral
and Memorial Services