Improperly Stored Remains Found at Chicago Funeral Home

Authorities in Chicago discovered the remains of 56 individuals stored improperly at a funeral home. The dire situation unfolded at a facility run by a couple previously involved in shutting down a crematory for similar reasons.

The Illinois state officials acted by suspending the license of one director from the funeral home. The allegations pointed to bodies being kept in unsatisfactory, non-refrigerated areas. A smell from the funeral home raised concerns in the neighborhood months earlier, prompting some residents to alert city officials.

The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office responded after receiving reports about the improper storage conditions at South Chicago Chapel. Forensic pathologists began assessing the bodies, which exhibited various decomposition stages. A spokesperson emphasized that identification and notification processes might take days to ensure respect for the deceased individuals.

A misstatement initially indicated a hazardous materials incident, but this was later corrected by local police. Although no arrests followed, an investigation remains active. Communication attempts with the funeral home were made through phone and their website.

Community Reaction

Residents and those affected gathered outside the funeral home. Latasha Johnson shared her distress upon discovering her mother’s remains were among those mishandled. Authorities informed her an autopsy and identification were necessary.

Community advocate Blaise Von Bruchhaeuser expressed frustration, noting ongoing complaints about foul odors prior to finding the decomposing bodies. This case has stirred strong community emotions due to the blatant disregard for the deceased.

Background and Legal Actions

Owner Johanna Morgan established the South Chicago Chapel in 2022. The state suspended her license, citing public safety and health dangers due to neglect, including rodent infestations and maggot presence.

Clark Morgan, Johanna’s husband, was identified as the funeral home president. His license was revoked in 2024 due to expired credentials and unspecified unprofessional behavior at a prior crematory they operated, which also faced closure for similar infractions.

State Comptroller Susana Mendoza criticized the Morgans, emphasizing the tragic nature of these discoveries. She condemned the mishandling of remains, emphasizing the dignity owed to the deceased.

Litigation involving the Morgans related to their previous crematory is ongoing. The couple resides in Evergreen Park, a Chicago suburb. Attempts to contact them and their legal representative were unsuccessful.

National Context

This incident is part of a troubling national pattern of mishandled remains. Recent cases include arrests in Colorado for similar issues and discoveries at funeral homes in Georgia and Indiana, underlining a persistent, disturbing trend over the past few years.