Oakley Metcalf Funeral Home

12/12/2025

Funeral Fact Friday!

Did you know that rosemary was the original funeral flower arrangement? Ancient Romans and Greeks carried rosemary in processions and placed it on the body during funeral rites, while mourners in medieval England tossed sprigs of the herb into graves - both to mask the smell of decomposition and to ward off evil associated with the superstitions of the time.

The Ancient Egyptians used rosemary as part of funerary rites too, but in a slightly different way. Instead of placing it in the grave with the body, rosemary was used as part of the embalming process!

12/10/2025

Tomorrow, we welcome our community to Gipson Funeral Home for our Lights of Love Service of Remembrance. In this season of togetherness, may we find comfort as we honor the memories of those we love 🕯️

12/08/2025

December 8th marks the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, an important day honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary. We join our Catholic brothers and sisters in recognizing this holy day and hope her example of faith and compassion brings comfort and peace to our community.

12/07/2025

On this 84th anniversary of Pearl Harbor, we remember the heroes, the fallen, and all who served in the days that followed. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.

12/06/2025

Please join us next Thursday, December 11th at 6 pm at Gipson Funeral Home for the annual Lights of Love Candlelight Service, a gentle and meaningful ceremony of remembrance honoring the loved ones we hold in our hearts. All are welcome to attend as we come together in reflection, support, and community during this holiday season.

11/27/2025

As we pause to give thanks, we also hold close those who are walking through grief this season. May this Thanksgiving bring you comfort, strength, and moments of grace.

11/24/2025

Funeral History: Colonial America

In the 1600s, early Pilgrims faced harsh conditions—nearly half didn’t survive their first year. Because clothing was expensive and hard to make, funeral preparations were simple. Townswomen washed and dressed the deceased at home, and most were buried in shrouds. Puritan funerals were quiet and modest, but the night before, families held a “wake” with food and drink while keeping watch over the body.
Mourning periods were strict: widows mourned for up to 2½ years, parents and children for a year, siblings six months, and extended family three to nine months. Black clothing was required, with women following stages of mourning from deep mourning in all-black to light mourning in muted purples and grays.

11/21/2025

As the deadline quickly approaches for wreath sponsorships at Garden of Memories, we are asking our community for support.
We remain about 1,000 wreaths short of our goal to ensure every veteran is remembered during Wreaths Across America.
Your sponsorship helps us honor their service and keep their legacy alive.
Please see the details below on how you can contribute.

11/20/2025

Share Memories and Support the Family.

11/18/2025

11/17/2025

The holiday season can be especially difficult for those carrying the weight of grief. As we move into Thanksgiving and Christmas, we want to remind you that it's okay to feel what you feel. Take time for self-care, find moments of peace where you can, and lean on others when you need help. You are not alone, and your well-being is important.