As deaths from COVID-19 rise in southern and western states, they’ve fallen dramatically in New York City. For funeral homes, the lull is a welcome respite.

The Kearns family funeral business was founded in New York City in the year 1900. Over 120 years, the family has seen a lot of history. Patrick Kearns and Paul Kearns-Stanley are the owners. After 4 months, they finally had a chance to reflect on the COVID-19 pandemic, and how it’s looked from their corner of New York.

This is our last Hunker Down Diary, at least for now. If you’ve enjoyed the series, we hope you’ll tell a friend. Stay in touch with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The story has support from Humanities New York and National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this production do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities. We also have support from Radio Diaries listeners, find our more and donate.