History & Staff

We have years of experience caring for families, from all walks of life. Each family comes to us because they know we are leaders in our profession, dedicated to excellence in service, and have the highest integrity.

Our History

Our History

James A. Reed Funeral Home has been part of this community since around 1880, when it was founded by William H. Bowman, a furniture and cabinet maker who began caring for families from his own home. That original residence—now the house on the right—remains part of the funeral home today, a lasting reminder that our work has always been rooted in home, family, and service. After Mr. Bowman’s passing, the funeral home was entrusted to his grandson, Marlin S. Reed.

As the community grew, so did the funeral home. In 1968, the neighboring corner house was purchased, and the two homes were connected to provide families with more space and comfort during their times of need.

In 1969, following Marlin Reed’s passing, his son, James “Jack” Reed, assumed ownership. Jack dedicated his life to serving families with compassion, respect, and personal attention—values that continue to guide us today.

In 1991, the funeral home was expanded with the addition of a chapel at the rear of the building, increasing seating capacity and allowing us to better accommodate families and friends gathering to honor a loved one. This remains the layout of our funeral home today.

In 2009, Jack’s son, William Reed, joined the family business full time. After more than 50 years of service, Jack stepped into retirement in January 2011, though he never truly stepped away. Today, William is proud to represent the fourth generation of the Reed family to own and operate James A. Reed Funeral Home, continuing a tradition of caring for families with sincerity, dignity, and compassion that has endured for more than a century.

Our Mission

We believe it is our responsibility to care for every family with compassion, dignity, and respect during times of loss. Every family we serve is unique, and we see each one as an opportunity to listen, understand, and honor what matters most to them. Because of this, every service we provide is thoughtfully designed to reflect the life, values, and wishes of the family it represents.

Whether you are planning ahead or need our help immediately we are here for you. It is our honor to support our families and our community with care, commitment, and understanding, every step of the way.

Our Valued Staff

  • William A. Reed

    William A. Reed Funeral Director, Owner

    Bill, a fourth-generation funeral director, has been managing the funeral home since 2011. After many years of working part-time in the family business, he graduated with honors from the Northampton Community College Funeral Service Program in 2009. Bill also holds a Pennsylvania Insurance License, allowing him to assist families with pre-need funeral planning.Bill is an active member of the Pennsylvania Funeral Directors Association, National Funeral Directors Association, Gratz Borough Council, and the Gratz Fair Association.

  • Robert F. Corcoran jr

    Robert F. Corcoran jr Funeral Director

  • James A. Reed Sr.

    James A. Reed Sr. Former Owner & Funeral Diretor

    1932-2024Licensed since the 1950's, Jack was a former President of the Dauphin County Funeral Directors Association, a member of the National and PA Funeral Director Association, Good Shepard EC Church, Gratz, Gideon's International, and a member of the Gratz Fair Board.

  • Marvin Snyder

    Marvin Snyder Funeral Attendant

  • Rodney Deppen

    Rodney Deppen Funeral Attendant