Funeral Director

Joseph Schuka is a licensed funeral director and embalmer for Ballard-Durand Funeral & Cremation Services. He has worked in funeral service for the past 15 years, and has been a licensed funeral director for 12 years. Formerly a native of Peekskill, NY, where he was well-established in the community and his church. Joe currently manages our Dutchess County location at Libby Funeral & Cremation Services in Beacon, NY. He is an active communicant of St. Joachim-St. John Parish in Beacon, NY; where he thoroughly enjoys assisting when needed as an Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist, and whatever else is needed by the parish Priests and...

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Thank you for calling Ballard-Durand Funeral & Cremation Services. The following information will answer some of your immediate questions regarding what will happen when death occurs and the next steps to be taken.

If a death has occurred, please call us to set an appointment 914-949-0566.

We understand this is a difficult time for you and want you to know we will help you in the days ahead as you honor your loved one.

Independent funeral homes that are members of this trade association are here to help you before, during and after your time of need.

• They are invited into membership only after meeting rigorous selection criteria.
• They are carefully screened for their commitment to quality, range of consumer choices, affordability and high standards.
• They are privately owned, meaning that your needs come first.
• They view their reputation as their most valuable asset.
• They must demonstrate ongoing high standards based on feedback from the families and individuals they serve.

Ballard Durand was wonderful. Our Funeral Director Melissa was the best. This was the hardest time of my family's life and they made this wonderful. Every family member or friend that came to my dad's memorial said that Ballard Durand was so serene and calm. They loved the birds in the sitting room too. I want to truly thank Ballard Durand for all they did to make the memorial for my dad an amazing experience.

“It wasn’t your typical, ‘sorry for your loss’, it was personal. The job Ballard-Durand did was absolutely beautiful. I will never forget Matthew, or the team who works with him.” – Mike Bizzoco

Elmsford, NY
October 23, 2019

Matt couldn't have done a better job in all respects. From his consultation, to the wake and funeral services, his attention to detail, organization and staff was exceptional. Matt treated us as family and made what was a very difficult time for our family, a consoling and comforting experience! Thank you for all you've done!