Hohlt & File Funeral Home

11/05/2025

The Power of Personalized Tributes

From the obituary to the memorial slideshow, every detail tells a story.

That’s why we work closely with families to create tributes that truly reflect your loved one’s life—because no two lives are the same, and neither are the ways we say goodbye.

Whether you want soft music and wildflowers or camo boots and country ballads—we’ll help you design a farewell that feels right.

10/31/2025

While Halloween brings costumes and candy for many, it can also stir up unexpected emotions for those grieving.

Whether it’s a favorite tradition or just the empty space where someone used to be—grief has a way of showing up when we least expect it.

If you’re struggling this season, please know: you are not alone. We see you, and we’re here for you.

💙 From all of us at Hohlt & File Funeral Home, we wish you gentle moments this Halloween.

10/30/2025

🌿 Why the Ginkgo Leaf?

The leaf beside our Crematory logo isn’t just a design choice — it carries deep meaning for us at Hohlt & File Funeral Home.

We chose the ginkgo because:

• There is a ginkgo tree right here on our property — a living part of our history
• Ginkgo trees symbolize hope, endurance, and longevity
• The double-lobed leaf reflects the connection between life and death — two parts of the same whole

It reminds us that even through loss, life continues, love remains, and memories endure.

This symbol quietly supports everything we do — caring for families, honoring loved ones, and offering comfort when it’s needed most.

Contact us today at Hohlt & File Funeral Home 618-283-3434

10/27/2025

What is a Celebration of Life?

At Hohlt & File, we believe every life deserves a send-off as unique as the person being remembered. A Celebration of Life is about more than saying goodbye—it’s about honoring the personality, passions, and legacy of someone special.

Whether it’s fishing hats, baseball memorabilia, a snow cone truck, gospel hymns, or country music—we’ve helped families in Vandalia craft tributes that feel deeply personal and true.

Being locally owned means we know what matters to our community, and we’ll help you create a meaningful service your loved one would’ve been proud of.

10/25/2025

Hohlt & File Funeral Home owner, Sue Burnam, is proud to share a meaningful advancement in the care we provide to families.

Burnam Crematory is now open at Hohlt & File Funeral Home — our own private, on-site crematory.

What this means for you and your loved ones:

• They remain here at home, in Vandalia
• They never leave the care of our trusted, licensed staff
• Families can feel even greater peace of mind during a difficult time

We consider it a privilege to continue serving Fayette County and our surrounding communities with the dignity, compassion, and personal care you deserve.

Questions about cremation or pre-planning?
We’re always here to talk: 618-283-3434

10/21/2025

Why Choose Local?

Big corporations don’t know your family’s story—but we do.

As a locally owned and operated funeral home, we’re part of this community. We shop here, raise our kids here, and serve the same neighbors we see at ballgames, church, and the grocery store.

When you choose Hohlt & File, you're choosing people who truly care—and who will go the extra mile to honor your loved one like they were our own.

10/16/2025

Real Families. Real Gratitude.

“We felt supported every step of the way.” – A recent family we served.

When you’re navigating loss, trust matters. As a locally owned funeral home, we take the time to listen, care, and walk alongside you like only neighbors can.

Have we helped your family in the past? Feel free to share your experience below—your story may bring comfort to someone else. 💙

10/08/2025

3 Things You Might Not Know About Pre-Planning

Thinking about pre-planning but not sure what it really means?
Here are 3 things you might not know:

It doesn’t require pre-paying—you can make decisions now, pay later.

It locks in prices, saving your family money.

It gives your loved ones clarity and comfort when they need it most.

Let us help you make a plan that reflects your values and gives peace of mind to those you love.

10/08/2025

We’re excited to announce the launch of our new website – https://www.hohltandfilefh.com/

Whether you're looking for service information, resources for planning ahead, or simply want to learn more about who we are and what we do, our new site is designed to serve you better.

🕊️ Easy to navigate
📅 Up-to-date obituaries
💬 Online condolences & memorials
🤝 Resources for support and planning

Visit us today and let us know what you think!

The passing of a loved one is a difficult time. We are here to help you honor and celebrate their life, and to begin the healing process for your family.

09/29/2025

A Walk Through Our History
For over 90 years, Hohlt & File Funeral Home has stood as a pillar of compassion and community in Vandalia. What began in 1936 as a small-town funeral service has grown into a trusted place of comfort for generations of families.

Founded by the Barkley family, our tradition of care has continued through the years with the legacy of local, family-focused service.

We’re not part of a national chain. We live here. We raise our families here. And we’re honored to serve our neighbors through life’s most tender moments.

Thank you for trusting us for nearly a century. It’s our privilege to walk beside you. 💙

https://www.hohltandfilefh.com/about-us/

09/24/2025

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to honoring a life.
We’re here to help you create a meaningful farewell—exactly how you want it. 🌿