We operate Bristol’s ONLY crematory, so whether you’re looking at a traditional service or cremation options, we will provide world-class service at the lowest prices in the community. HISTORY
In 1923, Paul Cook, an 11 year old farm boy from Grant County, Kentucky, moved to Bristol, Tennessee, to live with his uncle, J. Paul arrived just in time to help the family move Huff & Campbell Funeral Home from the old "undertaking parlor" on State Street to 101 Pennsylvania Avenue. The family lived in a modest apartment above what was then considered to be the largest and most modern funeral home facility in the area. Paul followed his uncle into the funeral profession where they served families together. In 1942, Paul purchased the Huff family interest in the firm which would later become known as Paul Cook Funeral Home. In total, Paul would serve Bristol and the surrounding area for more than fifty years. Sid Oakley began working at Paul Cook Funeral Home in 1961 when he was only 14 years old. After moving his way up in the organization, Sid purchased the funeral home in 1978, and he and Paul managed together until Paul’s death January 5, 1981. Seeing a great opportunity, Sid purchased a building and 1.5 acres of land on Volunteer Parkway in July of 1981. He completely renovated the property, opening Oakley-Cook Funeral Home in January 1982. In 1988 Oakley-Cook became part of Heritage Family Funeral Services. In addition to offering unparalleled service, Oakley-Cook houses and operates the ONLY crematory in Bristol and Sullivan County and offers the lowest cremation prices in Bristol. Though our leadership has changed over the years, we have always taken pride in caring for families from all walks of life. Huff, Paul Cook, Sid Oakley, and our current staff have always been leaders in our profession, dedicated to excellence in service, acting with the highest integrity. In January of 2022, newspaper articles, bill-boards and website and Facebook posts acknowledged the 40th anniversary of the dedication of the Paul Cook Memorial Chapel and the opening of the new funeral home on Sunday, January 10, 1982. Sid Oakley continues to serve families at Oakley-Cook and as requested from sister firms Akard Funeral Home and Blevins Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
