15 Years Later: Rebuilding a Cemetery Transport System
The work that takes place on cemetery grounds is often unseen, but it carries just as much responsibility. Every movement, every transfer, every step is handled with care. Not with ceremony in the public eye, but with quiet consistency behind the scenes.
That is where vehicles like this come into play.
Not as a replacement for a hearse, but as a purpose-built solution to support cemetery operations and serve the deceased in a respectful and practical way.
Recently, we had the opportunity to reconnect with the team at the City of Hobbs. Their Parks & Open Spaces team reached out to us with a familiar request, but one that carried a story nearly 15 years in the making.
A System That Stood the Test of Time
More than a decade ago, their team purchased one of our Casket Slide Mounting Systems and installed it onto a utility vehicle used throughout the cemetery grounds. This was part of their daily operations. The system supported both burials and transfers on a consistent basis. It was exposed to the elements and handled repeated loading and unloading over the years.
It performed exactly as it needed to.
When the time came to replace it, the current team, many of whom were not part of the original purchase, took the time to track us down.
They did not look for an alternative. They looked to rebuild what had worked.
A New Build, Backed by Experience
This project became more than a replacement. It became an opportunity to build forward with the benefit of experience.
The City of Hobbs team selected the Club Car Carryall 700 as their platform. A reliable utility vehicle that fits naturally within cemetery operations.
What stood out most was the custom deck their team built.
The wood base was clean, well-constructed, and thoughtfully designed. It provided a strong foundation for the system while also reflecting the level of care they bring to their work. Handles were built directly into the deck, allowing it to be removed when needed to access components underneath. A practical detail that speaks to how often these vehicles are used and maintained.
This was not a temporary setup. It was built for long-term use.
Why They Chose to Start Fresh
As the project moved forward, the decision was made to install two complete systems for two vehicles.
Rather than reusing older components, they chose to start with all new parts. After 15 years of consistent use, this ensured a clean installation and reliable performance across both builds. It also allowed the system to match the quality of the new deck they had created.
Our team worked alongside them throughout the process, helping confirm sizing, fitment, and overall setup to align with how the vehicles are used within their cemetery grounds.
Built for the Work Behind the Scenes
This application reflects a part of funeral service that is not always visible, but is essential.
Cemetery teams require equipment that fits their environment. Something that moves efficiently through the grounds, supports their workflow, and upholds the same level of respect given throughout every stage of the process.
This is one example of how that can be achieved.
A utility vehicle adapted for purpose.
A custom-built deck.
A system designed to support safe and controlled transport within the grounds.
We have seen similar needs across other applications as well. Memorial transport vehicles, first call vans, SUV conversions, and custom builds each require a solution that fits how they are used.
The approach may change. The responsibility does not.
Moving Forward
Today, both vehicles are in service, supporting the City of Hobbs cemetery team with a new foundation built on what had already proven to work. It is a reminder that the right solution does not need to change often. It simply needs to perform when it is called upon.
If you are planning a custom build for cemetery operations or a memorial transport application, having a system that aligns with your day-to-day work is critical.
Learn more about our Casket Slide Mounting System and how it can support your next build.
