About Us

For many years, we have served our community by providing healing and meaningful funeral and memorial services that honor life and meet the needs of those who grieve. Our hope is that from the moment you walk through our doors, you feel welcomed, respected, and heard.

"It is the mission of Whitaker Funeral Home to be the leader in the facilitation and creation of meaningful ways for families to grieve their loss and celebrate the memories of their loved ones. We will always strive to exceed the expectations of each family we are privileged to serve."

Our staff is here to provide you with excellent care and service during your time of loss. Get to know the people who will help you through the planning process.

Originally known as John Rowland Leavell Funeral Home, our facilities were located near the present-day Hampton Inn on Nance Street in Newberry, SC. This home was founded in 1847, and in 1865 Robert Young Leavell built the Nance Street facility.

After the death of R. Y. Leavell in 1935, James R. Leavell took over the helm, moving the Newberry Home to its present site (Calhoun St. & College St.) in the winter of 1937.

The College Street facility was built by Edward Sholtz around 1880 and sold to Dr. William E. Pelham in 1889. Upon his death in 1930, the home went into Dr. Pelham's estate. It was purchased in 1936 by John Stockman, who in turn sold it to James R. Leavell.

In 1951, the home was sold to Roy Doggett Whitaker, Sr., acquiring its current name, under which it was incorporated in October of 1970. In 1972, a new brick garage was added.

Roy Doggett Whitaker, Jr., was named General Manager of the Whitaker Funeral Home in 1974 and carries on the family tradition to this date.