Imagine walking into your favorite locally-owned restaurant, being greeted by name, and having your meal or drink prepared exactly the way you like it without even having to ask. This personal touch is likely one of the reasons you choose to dine there.

Similarly, the status of a locally-owned funeral home can significantly impact the experience you have. Just like your favorite restaurant, a local funeral home offers personalized service, understanding, and a deep connection to the community that larger, corporate establishments often can’t match.

When selecting a funeral service provider, the choice can significantly affect the experience for grieving families. Family-owned funeral homes bring a unique set of strengths, offering a level of care and personal touch that distinguishes them in this sensitive field.

You may be surprised to learn that more than 20% of all funeral homes in the country are owned by large corporations. 

Corporate entities offer standardized services and advanced resources, but they may lack the deep community connections that family-owned homes cherish.

Service Corporation International: A Closer Look

Service Corporation International (SCI) is North America’s largest provider of funeral, cremation, and cemetery services, with shares traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol SCI. Since its founding in 1962 and headquartered in Houston, Texas, SCI has grown to own and operate over 1,900 funeral homes and cemeteries across 44 states, eight Canadian provinces, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.

Brands Under SCI:

Locally Owned Brands Under SCI:

1. Personalized Service: Family-owned funeral homes provide intimate and tailored services, deeply understanding the needs and preferences of the families they serve.

2. Community Commitment: These businesses often have generational ties to the community, fostering trust and a profound sense of responsibility towards their neighbors.

3. Flexibility and Care: Without corporate mandates, family-owned homes offer greater flexibility, adapting to the unique needs of each family with genuine care and attention.

4. Generational Legacy: Many family-owned funeral homes are passed down through generations, preserving traditions and values that enhance the quality of service. This legacy fosters a deep understanding of the community’s cultural and historical context, ensuring that services are meaningful and respectful.

5. Personal Relationships: The staff at family-owned funeral homes often build long-term relationships with the families they serve, providing continuity of care and a personal touch that can be comforting during times of loss.

6. Local Investment: Family-owned businesses tend to reinvest in their local communities, supporting local economies and contributing to community well-being beyond their primary services.

Selecting a funeral home is a deeply personal decision. For those valuing a heartfelt, community-oriented approach, family-owned homes like Tharp Funeral Home offer unparalleled empathy and dedication. They provide not just a service, but a partnership in navigating one of life’s most challenging times.

In moments of loss, the priority is finding a provider that aligns with the family’s values and needs, ensuring a dignified and comforting farewell for their loved one. The intimate, personal touch of a family-owned funeral home can offer solace and support, creating a meaningful and respectful tribute.

Since 1848, Tharp Funeral Home has been a pillar of support for the Lynchburg and Bedford communities, extending compassionate care to countless families. The Tharp family’s long-standing dedication ensures that every family receives not only professional service but also the warmth and empathy that comes from a deeply rooted, community-focused business.

Read more about the Tharp Funeral Difference

Photo of Co-Owners Chris Tharp (3rd generation) and Murrell Thornhill (licensed for over 20 years)