Our History

GOING BACK IN TIME

Our History

The roots of Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home trace back to the early 1900s, when Earnest L. Oulla purchased the long-established Vaughan Undertaking Company and began operating it as Oulla’s Inc. Known for its dedication to service and its wide range of offerings, the firm quickly became a trusted name in the community. As the business grew, so did its reputation for compassion, professionalism, and care.

In 1946, Conner D. Stoudenmire purchased the firm, beginning a new era of service and leadership. Two years later, he renamed it Stoudenmire Funeral Home, a name that would become synonymous with integrity and community trust for generations. In 1973, Stoudenmire incorporated the business and welcomed long-time employees as stockholders, deepening the culture of service and teamwork that the funeral home had always embraced.

The next chapter began in 1980, when John F. Dowling joined the staff as a funeral director and embalmer. His experience, dedication, and connection to the region quickly made him an integral part of the team. By 1981, he became manager and part owner of the firm. Following Stoudenmire’s passing in 1986, the business transitioned under new leadership, and in 1988, Dowling acquired full ownership. In 1990, the name was officially changed to Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home, Inc., reflecting the partnership and legacy that shaped the organization.

Through every transition, one thing has remained constant: a commitment to serving families with dignity, respect, and unwavering compassion. Over the decades, Stoudenmire-Dowling has continued to grow, adapt, and expand its offerings to meet the evolving needs of the community—yet the heart of the funeral home remains rooted in the values established more than a century ago.

Today, we honor that legacy by providing caring, professional support to every family we serve, just as our founders envisioned.