About Us
Since 1946, we have been honored to deliver healing experiences to the community
We exist to serve the unique needs of every family. Learn our story. Lean on us. And let our expertise lead you through the best experience possible.
Our promise
Today, tomorrow, and forever, our commitment to you stays the same.
Dignity
Every life is unique, and we promise to honor and respect each journey, crafting ceremonies that reflect each individual.
Guidance
Navigating grief can be overwhelming; we stand by you, providing direction and solace every step of the way.
Legacy
Beyond a service, we're committed to helping families create lasting tributes that transcend generations.
Our Story
Explore the enduring legacy of Reins - Sturdivant Funeral Home. From its humble beginnings in the early 1900s as Hughes Funeral Home to its evolution into a beacon of compassionate service in Avery County, this presentation will take you through a century of dedication, innovation, and community care. Join us as we trace the milestones that have shaped our history and our commitment to serving families with respect and dignity.
Hughes Funeral Home
Founded in the early 1900s by Ronald Hughes, Hughes Funeral Home began its legacy in Avery County, providing essential funeral and ambulance services, rooted in community care.
Reins - Sturdivant Begins
In 1946, Ronald Hughes sold the funeral home to J.C. Reins and William "Bill" Sturdivant. The new leadership marked the beginning of Reins - Sturdivant Funeral Home, setting the stage for innovative funeral services across the region.
Growth Beyond Newland
By the late 1940s, Reins - Sturdivant had established additional locations in North Carolina and Virginia, showcasing their pioneering approach to multi-location funeral services and enhancing their community reach.
Laughridge's Leadership
William "Bill" Laughridge, taking over in 1950, led significant expansions including the construction of a new chapel in 1971. The firm also transitioned out of ambulance services, with the establishment of the Avery County Rescue Squad in 1967.
Modernizing Facilities
The 1980s saw a complete renovation of the existing facilities and expansion of service spaces to better serve the community. In 1989, a modern facility was built on Ash Street, equipped with advanced amenities for funeral services.
The Legacy Continues
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, the funeral home continued to innovate with new services and facilities, including webcasting capabilities. Leadership transitions ensured the continuity of compassionate care, culminating in a partnership with Tetrick Funeral Home.
Families know they can count on us to provide them the comfort they need when they need it most
Garrick Smith
Location Manager, Funeral Service Licensee
Brandy P. Hampton
Funeral Service Licensee
Melissa Cook
Administrative Assistant
Sheri Cornett
Funeral Service Apprentice
Debbie Gragg
Funeral Assistant
Steve Stemler
Funeral Assistant
Donna Garland
Administrative Assistant
Rev. Marcus R. Benfield
Funeral Assistant
Rev. Ronnie Pyatte
Funeral Assistant
Michael Hendricks
Aftercare Coordinator / Licensed Insurance Agent
The perfect place to hold a meaningful and unique ceremony.
Where the memory of your loved one can be uniquely celebrated
One-Stop Arrangements
We provide funeral & cremation arrangements and strive to make each step of the process seamless and customized to your needs.
Personalized Services
24/7/365 Support Staff
“The staff was helpful and they went above and beyond to help us during our loss”
Author:— Lisa Trivett rated with 5 stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Everyone at the funeral home is always helpful with anything you need. They are great to work with. I appreciate everything they do for family and friends they go above and beyond.”
Author:— Barbara Staton rated with 5 stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The team at this location are very kind and compassionate, making one of the hardest experiences of your life a lot easier to manage”
Author:— Misty Jones rated with 5 stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Reins assisted our family when our Daddy died and again when our sweet sister Carla died. The staff did an excellent job and were very helpful when our hearts were broken. We didn't have to worry about anything.”
Author:— Deanna Griffith rated with 5 stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Always treat you like family. When in your time of need I could not had done it without the support and care of there staff. I highly recommend them.”
Author:— Sheri Shell Cornett rated with 5 stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Our Mom passed away in February 2018. The care for her was excellent. We were so thankful for all the kindness and consideration shown to us. We cannot thank Reins Sturdivant enough.”
Author:— Betty Cook Ward rated with 5 stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
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Join us
Beyond the opportunity to truly make a difference, Reins-Sturdivant offers competitive pay, a healthy work-life balance, and many opportunities for growth.