Pierce Brothers: A History of Funerals and Cemeteries in Southern California

The Early Years

Pierce Brothers was founded in 1872 by two brothers, Fred and William Pierce. They started out as a small funeral home in downtown Los Angeles, but quickly grew into one of the largest funeral and cemetery businesses in Southern California. The company's success was due in part to its innovative approach to funerals and cemeteries. Pierce Brothers was one of the first funeral homes to offer cremation services, and it also developed a number of new cemetery designs that were more park-like and less traditional.

Expansion and Growth

In the early 20th century, Pierce Brothers continued to expand its operations, opening new funeral homes and cemeteries throughout Southern California. The company also began to acquire other funeral and cemetery businesses, including the famous Hollywood Forever Cemetery in 1939. By the mid-20th century, Pierce Brothers was the largest funeral and cemetery provider in Southern California, with a reputation for quality service and beautiful cemeteries.

Modern Pierce Brothers

Today, Pierce Brothers is still a leading provider of funeral and cemetery services in Southern California. The company operates 15 funeral homes and 11 cemeteries in the region, and it employs over 1,000 people. Pierce Brothers offers a wide range of funeral and cemetery services, from traditional burials to cremations and memorial services. The company also has a number of special programs, such as the Pierce Brothers Family Service Program, which provides support and resources to families who have lost a loved one.

Pierce Brothers Cemeteries

Hollywood Forever Cemetery

One of Pierce Brothers' most famous cemeteries is Hollywood Forever Cemetery, which is the final resting place of many Hollywood stars, including Marilyn Monroe, Rudolph Valentino, and Douglas Fairbanks. The cemetery is also a popular tourist destination, and it offers a variety of tours and events throughout the year.

Forest Lawn Memorial Park

Another popular Pierce Brothers cemetery is Forest Lawn Memorial Park, which is located in Glendale, California. Forest Lawn is one of the largest and most beautiful cemeteries in the world, and it is home to a number of famous works of art, including the "Pieta" by Michelangelo.

Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks Memorial Park

Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks Memorial Park is a newer cemetery, located in Westlake Village, California. The cemetery is designed to be a park-like setting, with rolling hills, lush landscaping, and a variety of water features. Valley Oaks also offers a number of unique features, such as a meditation garden and a pet cemetery.

Pierce Brothers Funeral Homes

Pierce Brothers operates 15 funeral homes in Southern California, each of which offers a variety of funeral and cremation services. The funeral homes are staffed by experienced professionals who are committed to providing compassionate care to families who have lost a loved one.

Pierce Brothers Family Service Program

The Pierce Brothers Family Service Program is a free program that provides support and resources to families who have lost a loved one. The program offers a variety of services, including grief counseling, support groups, and financial assistance. The Family Service Program is staffed by a team of experienced professionals who are dedicated to helping families through the grieving process.

Conclusion

Pierce Brothers has been a leading provider of funeral and cemetery services in Southern California for over 150 years. The company offers a wide range of services, from traditional burials to cremations and memorial services. Pierce Brothers also has a number of special programs, such as the Pierce Brothers Family Service Program, which provides support and resources to families who have lost a loved one.