The Tetrick Funeral Services Story

From its inception in 1922 within a humble furniture store to a landmark of service in northeast Tennessee, Tetrick Funeral Services has woven a rich tapestry of care, innovation, and dedication. This journey encapsulates a century of unwavering commitment to families during their most challenging times, showcasing the evolution of a small undertaking service into a beacon of comfort and excellence.

From Furniture to Funerals

Beginning as Williams Furniture Company in downtown Elizabethton, the venture expanded to selling coffins and offering undertaking services. By 1925, B.P. Curtis and Frank Bailey initiated Curtis Funeral Home at a significant downtown location, setting the foundation for future growth.

The North and Tetrick Transition

In 1932, H.S. North acquired the funeral home, bringing experience from a family of undertakers. By 1943, Don Tetrick took ownership, marking the beginning of the Tetrick Funeral Services's longstanding influence in Elizabethton.

The First Expansion

Under the Tetrick family, the funeral home served an increasing number of families, necessitating expansions, including the acquisition of the Grindstaff Victorian home in 1951 and addition of a modern facility in 1952. Don Tetrick's foresight led to the purchase of Happy Valley Memorial Park in 1955, pioneering a funeral home-cemetery association in the region.

Chapel and Facilities Enhancement

Significant additions from 1963 to 1979 included the Riverside Funeral Chapel, the first of its kind in northeast Tennessee, and various modernizations to accommodate growing demands, reflecting the community's changing needs and the funeral home's commitment to service.

Acquisitions and Growth

The strategic acquisition of Hathaway Percy Funeral Home in 1980 and subsequent expansion and renovation efforts, including the modernization of Castle Funeral Home, demonstrated the Tetrick family's dedication to serving wider communities.

Modernization and Excellence

With the new millennium came significant expansions, including the state-of-the-art Johnson City location in 2001 and renovations to the Elizabethton location. These enhancements underscored the Tetrick family's commitment to excellence, earning numerous awards and recognitions.

Across generations, the Tetrick family has been deeply involved in community service, reflecting their commitment beyond funeral services. This dedication has been recognized through numerous awards and the community's continued trust and respect.

In 2022, we proudly celebrated our 100th anniversary, marking a century of dedication to providing compassionate service to northeast Tennessee's families. From its humble beginnings to becoming a trusted name, the journey reflects a legacy of care, innovation, and community.