Body Donor Memorial Service 
May 2025

Earlier this month, PCOM Georgia hosted its annual Body Donor Memorial Service, welcoming more than 240 attendees—the largest turnout in the event's history.

Families from across the metro Atlanta area and beyond traveled to honor and receive the cremated remains of their loved ones. Some families even flew in from distant cities.

The memorial service, which takes months of preparation, was organized by 25 first-year Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine students, in collaboration with Jeffrey K. Seiple, director of PCOM Anatomical Labs and Services, and Hannah Zepplin, anatomical director, Body Donor Program.

Warm hospitality filled the College as doctoral students opened doors to greet families; Physician Assistant Studies students escorted guests to the cafeteria for their catered breakfast, and Physical Therapy students poured hot coffee and tea with a smile.

Among the attendees was Board Member David McCleskey, who greeted many families personally. McCleskey expressed gratitude for the donors' contributions, acknowledging how their generosity advances medical education for the future doctors, physician assistants, and physical therapists at PCOM Georgia.

Miranda Turner (DO ’28) welcomed the large crowd, and Seiple offered words of thanks.

Michael Selby, PhD, an associate professor of Anatomy; Diana Peterson, PhD, a professor of Anatomy; and Erik Zarandy, DO ’12, an assistant professor of Family Medicine, shared their personal stories of working with body donors when they were students.

Student representatives from each program also spoke, including Milo Paman (DO ’28); Madison Gillespie (PA ’26); and Keilan Hulon (PT ’27), expressing appreciation for the donors’ sacrifices. 

The ceremony continued with the presentation of cremated remains as each family was called forward to receive their loved one. 

The room was filled with silent reflection, united in a collective remembrance. In honor of Mother’s Day weekend, each family of a female donor received a rose.

As the service drew to a close, Turner offered final remarks, leaving guests with a sense of connection, gratitude, and reverence for those who had selflessly given their bodies to science.