Black Owned Funeral Homes In DeKalb County
Black Owned Funeral Homes in DeKalb County: Pillars of Community and Dignity
By Monica El-Amin, African American History Coordinator
Black Cemeteries across the United States are profound symbols of resilience and cultural preservation. Please read the two linked articles, Black Cemeteries Part I and Part II which detail the historical importance of these sites to provide context as we now explore three noteworthy Black-owned funeral homes in DeKalb County.
Black-owned funeral homes have historically played a significant role in serving their communities, and evolved into essential institutions that go beyond merely providing services. They respect their patrons and treat their loved ones with dignity while honoring Black American funeral traditions.
Tri-Cities Funeral Home
Tri-Cities Funeral Home, founded in 1960 by William Grant Reynolds, has a rich history serving the Black communities of Metro-Atlanta, including its home base of Lithonia. This funeral home became an important community institution during the peak of the Civil Rights Era, serving Black Americans who were coping with personal loss alongside persistent social struggles. Tri-Cities Funeral Home is widely recognized for its deep-seated commitment to honor the values and traditions of their community while offering personalized services. Over the decades, it has remained a trusted institution, continuing to provide comfort and support.
Gregory B. Levett and Sons Funeral Home
Gregory B. Levett and Sons Funeral Home has similarly established itself as a cornerstone of funeral services in the greater DeKalb County area for decades. Founded in 1980 by Gregory B. Levett, it rapidly built its professional reputation and importance in and around Scottdale. Now with three locations, the Levett family’s consistent commitment to high-quality services has earned them deep trust and respect within the county. Beyond traditional services, the funeral home is widely recognized for its community outreach programs, including grief counseling and support initiatives. Through their ongoing work, Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Homes continue to maintain and nurture the cultural traditions surrounding death, ensuring families can honor their loved ones in ways that are deeply reflective of their heritage.
Photo Credit: Aries George
Donald Trimble Mortuary
Donald Trimble Mortuary also holds a significant place in the tapestry of Black-owned funeral services in DeKalb. Established in Decatur in 1983 by the late Donald Trimble, the mortuary is family-owned and operated, continuing its legacy under the leadership of his niece, Chedonna Trimble-Holston. Situated on 2nd Avenue, the firm is known for its high volume of services and catering to the unique needs and traditions of the families it serves. Donald Trimble Mortuary is actively affiliated with local organizations and professional associations, reflecting its ongoing commitment not only to funeral services but also to the civic and professional advancement of the Black community in Decatur and beyond. The consistency and professionalism of their service have made them a trusted institution for generations.
These Black-owned institutions were often community centers in disguise, serving as hubs for organization and activism during periods of racial segregation and injustice. Denied access to many public venues, Black Americans utilized the chapels and reception areas of these funeral homes for civil rights meetings, community forums, and educational events. The funeral directors themselves frequently assumed leadership roles, leveraging their financial stability and deep community connections to aid in various causes. This dual function solidified their roles as community resources.
Furthermore, the tradition of Black funeral directing as a profession fostered crucial milestones of financial independence and economic stability within the community. Since the businesses relied exclusively on Black patronage, the income generated returned to the Black economy. Such entrepreneurship allowed these businesses to thrive outside of the structure of white establishments. By maintaining independent and successful companies, funeral homes like Gregory B. Levett and Sons and Donald Trimble Mortuary are prominent examples of how cultivating cultural experiences and maintaining financial independence can coexist.
In DeKalb County, the legacy of Black-owned funeral homes transcends beyond funeral services; they are crucial community pillars. By serving their communities, they have carefully preserved cultural traditions surrounding death, ensuring that people’s loved ones are honored in ways that respect the family’s unique heritage and beliefs. By consistently providing comfort, stability, and community, these institutions maintain their status as deeply trusted providers, supporting families during difficult times.
