Downs & Son Funeral Home was established in 1907 by the Original Owner Edward J. Downs.

Edward J. Downs

      1884-1957

John B. Downs

   1918-1984

Bryon D. Downs

     present

OUR HISTORY:

Few Funeral Homes in Canada can match the DOWNS AND SON FUNERAL HOME for longevity or experience. We have been the “Family Funeral Home” for thousands of client families for over 100 years. A tradition since 1907 we have provided funeral arrangements for all faiths within everyone’s means for three generations.

Admirable, though tradition may be, we pride ourselves in our ability to be a leader in a constantly demanding profession. Our staff of men and women are second to none. We believe that each one is a caring, understanding professional who takes pride in helping people.

We are a family owned community-located funeral home which has earned a reputation for service, price and reliability over the years. Word-of-mouth, without question, is our finest endorsement.

Regardless of whether or not a family comes to Downs and Son Funeral Home for the first time, or considers us to be their “family” funeral home, we take personal interest in helping.

We take pride in our reputation for service and dependability and carefully guard our standing in the community as being one of the areas premier funeral homes. We are proud of our 100 year history of professional service and an enduring committment to the communities in which we serve.

Edward J. Downs built his funeral home at the corner of Queen Street and Bruce Street (where Tim Horton’s is now located) in Hepworth in the year 1907. E.J. , as he was known, wore many hats. Besides being the local funeral director, he was also a barber, had a furniture store, ambulance business and was Reeve of the town. He was a member of County Council since 1925 and became Warden of Bruce County in 1931.

There were no radios, televisions or phones back in 1907. In fact, automobiles were just starting to be introduced. Mostly transportation was by horse and buggy. When a death occurred most visitations were held at the persons home and the funeral conducted from the home or a church.

John B. Downs became involved with the family business in the 1930’s and became a licenced funeral director in 1939. John, better known to the public as “Jack” or “J.B.”, worked with his father in all phases of the business. Jack was also a barber, involved in the furniture store, ambulance business and was Clerk of the Village for over 45 years.

When Edward (E.J.) died in 1957, his son Jack decided to build a new funeral home. He had purchased the home of Dr. Frank Williamson and in 1958 the funeral chapel was added and became the new Funeral Home at 145 Queen Street West.

In 1978 Jack’s son Bryon became a licenced funeral director, joining the family business in 1979 as a third generation Funeral Director. Over the years many changes have occurred to the building, giving it a distinguished and prestigious Victorian Style with white southern pillars wrapped around the front of the building. Many families have appreciated the beautiful facilities and welcoming atmosphere.

In 1984 Bryon purchased the family business from his father and remains the current owner and operator. In 1986, Jack died after a short illness.

They say “beside every successful man stands a woman” and without question this was certainly the case with Downs and Son. The business would not have existed without them. Their strong support and countless hours of work should not go unmentioned. For over 45 years Bawn worked with Jack, faithfully serving the families in their time of need. For over 25 years Bonnie and Bryon have continued the family tradition.

We’re very proud of the fact that we are the “OLDEST FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME” in Grey and Bruce County.

IMPORTANT FACTS WHEN SELECTING A FUNERAL HOME

1. REPUTATION

The Downs and Son Funeral Home has been serving the public for 100 years.

2. LOCATION

The Downs and Son Funeral Home is in the geographic centre of the area. We like to think that Hepworth is the “Hub” or the “Doorway” to the Bruce Peninsula, Sauble Beach, Tara, Allenford and Wiarton.

3. PRICE

The Downs and Son Funeral Home offers the highest possible standard of service at a responsible price.

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