Our Caring Team

Alyssa Brugger

VP of Operations

Alyssa grew up in Gardiner, the second eldest of five kids. She attended Briarwood College for Mortuary Science; after graduating in 2009 she moved back to her hometown and served at her local funeral home for years. Taking time off, she and her husband settled in Freedom where they built their dream home and raise their two daughters. She came back to the career she loves in 2021 serving Family First Funeral Homes. In her free time she loves her pets, the beach, crafting, fishing, and spending time with family.

Danny Hatt

Regional Director

Danny R. Hatt is a Maine Native who was raised in a small town in Downeast Maine. He graduated from the New England Institute at Mount Ida College and has been working in funeral service for more than 27 years. Becoming a licensed funeral director was a lifelong dream that came to life with determination and a lot of hard work.


Danny loves serving the families of Mid Coast, Central and Southern Maine, helping families plan meaningful and dignified services celebrating the life of their loved one. “It is an honor and a privilege to assist families during these difficult times.”


Danny is also active in the community, a past member of the board of directors for the RBPA, a current trustee on the board of the Victoria Mansion and a longtime volunteer designer and decorator for Christmas at Victoria Mansion. Danny is also a longtime supporter of the Arts in Maine.


In his spare time, he enjoys the theatre, traveling, decorating for the holidays, interior design, gardening, home remodeling, and cooking and entertaining for family and friends. He lives in Portland with his partner Don and their dog Dozer the Frenchie. They especially enjoy the time spent with their daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter and spending time at their lakeside cottage in Downeast Maine.


Danny is very excited to be the newest member of the Family First Team and looks forward to caring for the families of Gardiner, Augusta, and surrounding communities.

Brock M. Thomas

Licensed Funeral Director

Brock is a Managing Funeral Director and Embalmer with an unwavering passion for supporting families during their most challenging moments. Since officially stepping into the role in 2017, he has built upon a solid foundation gained during his apprenticeship, which began in 2002. An alumnus of the American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service in New York, Brock's journey reflects his dream of becoming a funeral director, a dream realized through heartfelt dedication and professional integrity. A proud Gardiner native with ties to Pittston and Litchfield, he lives by the motto, “If you can dream it, you can do it,” inspiring others through his commitment to compassionate care in the funeral service industry.


A passionate and proud homeowner who built his house in 2003 on the street where his journey began in Gardiner. Alongside his partner Cameron and three active dogs Willow, River, and Finn, he embraces the perfect blend of family life and personal interests. A globetrotter at heart, Mexico is his happy place, where he finds inspiration and relaxation. Whether he’s by the pool with family or hosting friends for an exquisite culinary experience, Brock’s passions encompass cooking, fashion, art, and antiques, reflecting his vibrant personality. As an active member of the Riverside Cemetery Committee, he merges his love for community with his artistic talents, honoring the past while shaping the future.


“Just when a caterpillar thought it’s life was over; it became a butterfly” ~Unknown author~

Ann Hayward

Office Administrator

Nicole Osbourn

Funeral Attendant

Ralph Butts

Maintenance/Grounds

Patrick Carlton

Funeral Director Apprentice