Meet our staff, members of the local community who make everything that happens possible.
Claudia Cortés Whitting is a seasoned professional in the field of labor relations and business administration, with a rich and diverse background that bridges cultures and continents. Born and raised in a small town in southern Catalonia, Spain, Claudia graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Labor Relations from Universitat Rovira i Virgili, where she laid the groundwork for her career in human resources and organizational management.
Driven by a passion for personal growth and cross-cultural understanding, Claudia traveled to the United States after completing her undergraduate studies. Immersing herself in the language and culture, she cultivated valuable relationships that would become pivotal in her professional journey. Her commitment to furthering her education led her to pursue a Master’s degree in Business Administration from NYIT, which she completed in 2021.
Claudia's multilingual capabilities—fluent in Catalan, Spanish, and English—reflect her deep-rooted connection to her Catalonian heritage and her ability to bridge diverse cultural contexts. Her upbringing in a tight-knit community instilled in her the importance of nurturing personal relationships and fostering a sense of care and responsibility toward others.
Currently a valued member of the Whitting Group, Claudia leverages her extensive knowledge and experience to contribute to organizational success while maintaining a strong commitment to community engagement. Her unique background and professional expertise enable her to interact effectively with families and community members, embodying the values of empathy and collaboration that she holds dear.
Blase Whitting is a fourth-generation funeral director at Whitting Funeral Home, where he brings a deep-rooted passion for service and tradition. His journey in the funeral industry began in childhood, shadowing his father and assisting in the meticulous task of crafting prayer cards. This early immersion instilled in him a profound respect for the profession and a commitment to excellence.
After graduating from St. John's Military School in 2018, Blase's path led him back to the family business, driven by a desire to honor his family's legacy and serve his community with compassion and professionalism. Eager to expand his knowledge and skill set, he pursued a degree in Mortuary Science from Nassau Community College, graduating with honors in 2023.
To refine his expertise, Blase completed a rigorous residency at a prestigious funeral home in Suffolk County, where he gained invaluable experience and insights into contemporary practices in the field. His dedication to continuous learning ensures that he remains at the forefront of industry standards, providing families with exceptional care during their most challenging times.
Outside of work, Blase finds joy in simple pleasures such as fishing, maintaining an active lifestyle at the gym, and cherishing moments with his loved ones. He particularly treasures spending time with his wife Claudia and their beloved golden retriever, Marv, who bring balance and happiness to his life.
Driven by a profound sense of duty and guided by the principles instilled by generations before him, Blase Whitting exemplifies a modern funeral director committed to honoring traditions while embracing innovation to meet the evolving needs of the community.
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