Thompson Funeral Home sold to Autry
BY LELAND ACKER

Two of Jacksonville's best known funeral homes have become one as Autry Funeral Home has announced it is purchasing Thompson Funeral Home.

"We welcome our new family from Thompson Funeral Home as we come together to serve the people of Jacksonville, Frankston and the surrounding communities," said Barry Autry, owner of Autry Funeral Home. "We are so blessed with an incredibly professional staff. We look forward to working with them every day."

The purchase became effective Oct. 24.

Thompson Funeral Home, previously owned by an affiliate of Service Corporation International, was among a group of East Texas funeral homes the company was going to sell.

"We moved forward to try to bring ownership back locally," Mr. Autry said. "It just all fell into place and we truly feel honored to bring the two locations together as one."

Employees of Thompson Funeral Home, Sean McRight, Gail Rainey, Davy Carter, Jim Paul, Elsie Patterson and Dave Morrison have joined the staff, Mr. Autry said.

All Thompson Funeral Home policies will be honored as written.

Autry Funeral Home will offer services from their location at 1025 SE Loop 456 in Jacksonville and on Hwy. 175 at Garrison Street in Frankston.

"Thompson Funeral Home has a respected heritage in our area and we are so proud that we can join together our committed staffs," Mr. Autry said.