Learn about funeral planning, costs, and recent changes in the local funeral home business
By Mary Gardner-Ruch
Funerals are something we avoid thinking about and often avoid planning until there is a need for one. Grace United Church has invited John W. Embser of J W Embser Sons Funeral Home Inc. to start the conversation about what to think about when planning a funeral. He will be the guest speaker at “Tuesdays With Grace” on February 18th. A light lunch will be served at 12:30 pm, followed by John’s presentation. There is no cost to attend.
There are many things to consider when planning a funeral, from the type of service and location to things like burial versus cremation. There are also financial considerations and ways to earmark money for funeral costs. John will cover such topics. He will also discuss the recent stock transfer on December 31st, 2024 when Olney-Faust purchased Embsers. The merger of businesses hopes to serve the community better and ensure the future of the funeral homes.
John’s grandfather, John William Will) Embser started the business in September of 1913. He died in 1939, and John’s father, Richard (Dick) Embser, and his brother, Walter Embser, took over the business. They were already working at the funeral home when their father died. John joined his father in the company in 1976. Walter’s daughter, Joan, married David Gardner, who became a partner in the business. Their son, Walter D. Gardner, joined the company in 1985 and remains there today.
John married Diana Vincent of Allentown in 1981. They raised a family of 5 children in Wellsville.
If you want to learn more about funeral planning and what is happening locally with the new merger, come to Grace United Church at 289 North Main Street in Wellsville on Tuesday, February 18th. You don’t need to make a reservation to attend.
