Gary S. Foster is Emeritus Chair and Professor at Eastern Illinois University, USA. At EIU, he taught environmental sociology and sociology of cemeteries. His recent publications have appeared in Illness, Crisis, and Loss; The Journal of Aging and Identity; The Florida Journal of Environmental Health; Markers; and The Association of Gravestone Studies Quarterly.

William E. Lovekamp is Professor of Sociology at Eastern Illinois University, USA. He is co-editor of the book Social Vulnerability to Disasters, (2nd ed). His recent publications appear in the International Journal of Mass Emergencies and Disasters; The Association of Gravestone Studies Quarterly; Markers; Teaching Sociology; and The Journal of Criminal Justice Education. He is also producer of the documentary called Nature's Fury and the Human Spirit.

Presents a collection of new data completed as a National Park Study (#GRSM-01120) under the auspices of a Great Smoky Mountains National Park Research Permit (#GRSM-2012-SCI-1120)

Combines statistical and observational data with oral and regional history to paint a fuller picture of an Appalachian community

Presents a multidisciplinary perspective drawing upon sociology, archaeology, folklore, and Appalachian history