J. S. Burkholder Funeral Home, Inc

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United States
Allentown, PA
J. S. Burkholder Funeral Home, Inc

Since 1895, the J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home has been serving families of the Lehigh Valley in their Selected Independent Funeral Homes J.S.

Since 1895, five generations of funeral directors at the J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home have been serving families of the Lehigh Valley in their time of need. Our family has developed a tradition of caring by assisting the community with funeral services and by helping people to prearrange their own funeral services. Burkholder Funeral Home, Inc. is family-owned and operated since 1895. We are the only funeral home in Allentown selected for membership by Selected Independent Funeral Homes, an invitation extended only after a thorough evaluation of out character, service, performance and facilities. For over 115 years, the J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, Inc., has served the families of the Lehigh Valley. We appreciate the trust that has been placed in us. It is the policy of Burkholder's never to refuse services based on the ability to pay. Additionally, we feel that no one should go into debt for a funeral service. It is our responsibility to assist you in making an intelligent and reasonable decision, and to this, we are dedicated. A funeral is a meaningful event; and, one that, properly planned, can help ease the pain of separation. It allows family and friends to join together with one voice to give thanks for a life well lived and to take the first step into a new life.

10/24/2025

Fun Fact Friday:
One of our favorite details in the funeral home is the original woodwork that brings warmth and character to every room. From the grand staircase and detailed window trim to our stunning original front door, each piece tells a story of the craftsmanship and care that went into building this home so many years ago.

These hand-finished wood details have been lovingly preserved through generations, standing as a quiet reminder of the tradition, dignity, and respect that define J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home. Every grain and carving reflects the history we’re proud to carry forward each day.

10/17/2025

✨ Fun Fact Friday ✨

Did you know our funeral home still features its original stained glass windows and Moravian tile fireplace?

These stunning details date back to the early days of our building and have been carefully preserved over the years. The stained glass windows cast a warm, colorful glow through the rooms, while the handcrafted Moravian tiles surrounding the fireplace showcase intricate patterns that reflect the artistry and craftsmanship of a bygone era.

Together, they add a sense of tradition, comfort, and beauty that continues to welcome every family who walks through our doors. 💫

10/14/2025

When a loved one passes, care begins immediately — and at J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, that first moment matters deeply. Every removal is personally handled by one of our licensed funeral directors, whether it’s our father-and-son team or another trusted member of our professional staff.

Many funeral homes today choose to outsource this most sacred part of their service. We never will. We believe that the first act of care — bringing your loved one into our care — should always be done by a licensed funeral director who understands the weight and dignity of that responsibility. It’s not just a transfer; it’s the beginning of our promise to serve your family as we would our own.

When you call us, you can take comfort in knowing that the person who arrives is not a stranger, but a compassionate professional from our own team — someone who knows your loved one’s journey matters. From that first call through every detail that follows, we are personally present, ensuring that every step is handled with respect, gentleness, and heartfelt care.

At J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, you are never alone — because our family truly does answer every call.

10/01/2025

🎗️ Breast Cancer Awareness Month 🎗️

This October, we join the community in honoring all those affected by breast cancer—those currently fighting, the survivors, and the loved ones we’ve lost.

At J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, we understand the profound impact of every life touched by illness. Each story reminds us of the importance of compassion, support, and cherishing the time we have with family and friends.

We encourage everyone to prioritize early detection, share love and encouragement with those in need, and take a moment to reflect on the strength and courage of those facing this challenge. Together, we can raise awareness, support one another, and continue the fight against breast cancer. 💖

09/22/2025

Congratulations, Kelly! 🎉

We are proud to congratulate Kelly on receiving her Funeral Director’s License after completing her year-long internship with us. Kelly began her journey with us three years ago, and since then has shown tremendous dedication, compassion, and professionalism in serving families. Her hard work and commitment to this calling have been an inspiration to our team, and we are excited to see all she will accomplish in the years ahead. Please join us in celebrating this incredible achievement and wishing Kelly continued success in her career!

09/11/2025

Today, we pause and remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001.
It has been 24 years, yet the memories remain vivid and the lessons remain powerful. On that day, nearly 3,000 lives were lost, countless families were forever changed, and our nation was shaken to its core.

But in the face of unimaginable loss, we also witnessed extraordinary courage and resilience. Firefighters, police officers, medical teams, and everyday citizens became heroes. Neighbors helped neighbors. Strangers stood together. Out of tragedy, a spirit of unity and compassion rose that reminded us of the best within us.

At J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, we stand with our community and our country in honoring the victims, the survivors, and the heroes of that day. We remember the families who continue to grieve, and we pray for peace, healing, and strength.

May we never forget the lives lost. May we always be inspired by the bravery shown. And may we continue to live with compassion, gratitude, and unity — values that carried us through the darkest hours.

We Remember. We Honor. We Will Never Forget.

09/09/2025

🎉 130 Years of Service 🎉
J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home – Established September 9, 1895

This year marks a rare and meaningful milestone — 130 years of uninterrupted service to the families of Allentown and the greater Lehigh Valley. Since 1895, J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home has stood as a symbol of compassion, dignity, and trust in our community. What began as a small, family-run funeral home has grown into a longstanding institution built on generations of care and commitment.

J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home was founded on September 9, 1895, with a simple mission that still guides us today: to offer dignified, respectful care to families in their time of need. What began on Linden Street in Allentown quickly became a trusted name in funeral service. In the 1920s, we relocated to our current home on Hamilton Street, where we’ve continued to serve families for nearly a century. While the location changed, our unwavering commitment to the community never did.

Over the decades, we’ve had the honor of supporting thousands of families through some of life’s most difficult moments. That work has been carried on through the dedication of many individuals, including three father-and-son teams who helped lead the funeral home across generations. Their shared values and devotion to service helped preserve the integrity of our mission and build the foundation we continue on today.

Though much has changed over 130 years — in the city, in funeral traditions, and in the world itself — what remains constant is our role as a steady, compassionate presence when families need it most.

As a family-owned and operated funeral home, we remain deeply honored by the trust so many families have placed in us across generations. We are grateful beyond words for the relationships we've built, the stories we've been part of, and the opportunity to continue serving Allentown and the Lehigh Valley with care, professionalism, and heart.

🕊️ With heartfelt gratitude,
The Burkholder Family & Staff
J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home
130 Years of Compassion, Tradition, and Service

09/01/2025

Happy Labor Day!

Today we honor the hard work, dedication, and spirit of those who built and continue to shape our community. For over 130 years, our funeral home has been blessed with generations of staff who have given their time, talents, and compassion to care for families in their most difficult moments. Their commitment is a reminder of the true meaning of service.

Labor Day is not just about rest, but about reflecting on the dignity of work and the people whose efforts make life better for all of us. As we celebrate, may we take time to be grateful for the past, present, and future of our community’s workforce.

From our family to yours, we wish you a safe, restful, and meaningful holiday surrounded by those you love. ❤️

08/16/2025

From the Archives: A Ride of Honor 🚘⚰️

One of our favorite historic photos shows two of our vintage hearses — one black, one white — parked proudly outside our original Linden Street location. It’s a glimpse into a different era, when every detail of a funeral procession was prepared with care, and the hearse itself was a point of pride for the funeral home and the community.

In the early and mid-1900s, these beautifully crafted cars were more than just vehicles — they were symbols of dignity and tradition. The polished chrome, gleaming paint, and quiet engines marked the beginning of a final journey. Families and neighbors would often pause on the sidewalk, hats in hand, as the procession rolled slowly by.

Our story began on September 9, 1895, right there on Linden Street. In the 1920s, we moved to our Hamilton Street location, where we still serve families today. While the vehicles have changed over the years, the heart of our mission has never wavered: to honor each life with compassion, respect, and the utmost care.

These photos are more than pieces of history — they’re a reminder of the trust generations of families have placed in us, and of the traditions we’re proud to carry forward into the future.

📍 1601 Hamilton Street, Allentown, PA
📞 610-433-5161

08/14/2025

A little planning today can mean a lot of comfort tomorrow. ❤️

At J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, we’ve been honored to walk alongside families in the Lehigh Valley for more than 130 years. Through all those years, we’ve seen the peace of mind that comes when final wishes are planned ahead of time.

Preplanning isn’t just about making arrangements — it’s about giving your loved ones the gift of clarity, easing their burden during an emotional time, and ensuring your life is celebrated in a way that feels true to you.

We’re more than a funeral home — we’re your neighbors, your friends, and part of your community’s history. When you sit down with us, it’s not just paperwork; it’s a caring conversation about your story, your values, and the legacy you want to leave behind.

Whether you’re ready to make decisions now or simply want to learn more, our doors are always open. There’s no rush, no pressure — just guidance, compassion, and understanding.

📞 Call us at 610-433-5161 or stop by to chat. Together, we can make sure your story is honored your way.

08/06/2025

💐 Compassion. Care. Community. 💐

At J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, we’ve been honored to serve families in the Lehigh Valley for over 130 years. Whether you’re planning ahead or navigating a recent loss, our experienced and caring team is here to guide you with compassion, dignity, and respect.

We're more than just a funeral home — we're part of the community, standing beside you when it matters most.

📍 Located in the heart of Allentown
📞 610-433-5161 | www.jsburkholder.com

Let us help you honor life and celebrate love. 💙

07/31/2025

🎉 Congratulations to Matthew on His Promotion! 🎉

We’re honored to announce that Matthew G. has been promoted to Executive Vice President at J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home.

Matthew earned his funeral director’s license in 1990 and has been a dedicated part of our firm for 35 years. Throughout his career, he has served families with care, respect, and professionalism—becoming a trusted leader both within our team and in the wider community.

Matthew’s thoughtful leadership, deep knowledge, and compassionate approach have made a lasting impact on our organization and the families we serve. His commitment to excellence helps ensure that our funeral home continues to provide comfort and support in life’s most difficult moments.

This promotion recognizes not only his decades of service, but also his unwavering dedication to upholding the values and legacy of our funeral home, which has served the Lehigh Valley for over 130 years.

Please join us in congratulating Matthew on this well-earned achievement!

Carl F. Schmoyer III
Owner/President

Address

1601 Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA
18102

Telephone

+16104335161

Website

http://www.jsburkholder.com/

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