Gill has become a tradition for Washington area families. We would like to take this opportunity to share with you our heritage of service of over 100 years.
Upon his return from the Civil War in 1864, Joseph A. Gill, an accomplished cabinet maker, took employment with the Bonham Bros. Furniture & Undertaking Co. Upon the death of one of the Bonham brothers in 1872, Mr. Gill acquired his half interest in the company, and thus, Bonham & Gill Undertaking Co. came into being.
In 1892, Mr. Joseph A. Gill along with his son, James A. Gill, started their own separate business: Joseph A. Gill & Son. This was located at 211 E. Main St. In 1912, after the death of his father, James A. Gill built the building at the corner of N.E. 3rd and Van Trees St. The Gill family lived on the second floor of this building, and the business was conducted on the first floor. In 1922, W. Hayes Gill joined his father in the business, thus becoming the third generation to be in the business.
Following the death of their father, James C. Gill joined his brother in the business in 1934. The business was moved to larger quarters at 314 E. Van Trees in 1936. In 1941, the brick colonial building at 308 E. Walnut St. was built: the same location now used. In 1985 the west wing was completed. In 1957, James W. Pirkle was employed as a funeral director/mortician by the Gill Bros. Upon their retirement in 1974, Mr. Pirkle assumed ownership of the firm.
We offer a full range of at-need services and pre-need arrangements. Pre-need arrangement are becoming more and more common, as people wish to spare their families the burden of having to make decisions at a difficult time.
Our funeral home has the very finest in accommodations to the families who use the facilities. There are two separate chapels, each having a private family room for the funeral service. Four visitations may be accommodated, and each family has their own separate, private entrance during the visitation. For the funeral service, enclosed, heated parking is provided for the family cars. The lounge area provides relaxation and refreshment for the families and friends. Private arrangement rooms are provided away from the public areas for the use of families when making funeral arrangements.
Our second level, which features our casket selection room, is accessible by elevator or stairs. We have a complete selection of funeral merchandise in all price ranges, and services may be tailored to each family's needs and wishes. The business office is located in such a manner that transactions there do not interfere with visitations or services.
The Gill firm is the oldest continuously operating business in Washington, Indiana. We are indeed pleased to have been an integral part of the Washington community for so many years. We pledge ourselves to continue to offer service to the highest degree of excellence to the community.
We invite you to stop by for a tour of the facilities and for answers to any questions you might have regarding our services.
