About Us

Who we are

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.

What we stand for

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.

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Meet the team

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

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Explore our Facility

The perfect place to hold a meaningful and unique ceremony.

Explore our location

We're here for you

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

Every loved one is unique. Celebrate them with ceremonies and tributes that are authentic to the life they lived.

24/7/365 Support Staff

You’re never alone. Our dedicated staff is always available to assist you with making arrangements and finding support.

Real stories from real people

“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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We're hiring

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.

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Plan for the future, today

Pre-planning lets your loved ones focus on honoring life instead of hashing out details. Learn the choices you can make now, so a future funeral becomes more of a celebration than a burden.

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About Us

Since 1946, we have been honored to deliver healing experiences to the community