Antonio Archibold
Have you ever dreamed of becoming a Funeral Director? I fulfilled that dream on September 23, 1983, by becoming the first Panamanian Funeral Director in New York State. I was born on October 2, 1959 in the Republic of Panama. I migrated from Panama to the United States at the age of 2. Between the age of 2 and 16, I commuted back and forth from Panama to the United States. I then married the woman of my dreams. I have three of the most wonderful sons a man can have and would not trade them for the world.
I earned an A.S.S. degree in Mortuary Science from LA Guardia Community College and the Academy of McAllister Institute of Embalming and Funeral Services. I received a degree in Funeral Services from St. Johns University. I earned a degree as an assistant Pathologist. Finally, I received a degree from Mercy College in Criminal Justice. From 1983 – 1986 I worked at various Funeral Homes as a Funeral Director. Then from 1986-1987 I worked as an autopsy assistant at the VA Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. In 1987 I joined the Department of Correction. On August 2, 2008, I retired after 21 years. While at the Department, many awards were bestowed upon me. I received three Employee of the Month Awards: 1997, 1999, 2006. I also received the Perfect Attendance Award from 1989-2007. I also received numerous letters of commendations and certificates of appreciations from the Mayor of New York City for the 2002 World Trade Center Assignment. Lastly, I received the Funeral Director’s Business Award from Upscale Production Inc. I am member of the Independent United Order of Mechanics Friendly Society Western Hemisphere Inc. since 1983, where I have served in many offices. Currently, I am a member of King Solomon District Grand Lodge #1. I served as the Venerable District Past Grand Master.
Today, I am still working as a Funeral Director at Rosedale Funeral Home and Caribbean Funeral Services. I am the President of JAR Caskets. While, simultaneously working as a Transport Officer for the Immigration Custom Agency.