Testimonials

We receive many letters from the families we've served, thanking us for our caring ways during their time of loss. Their words warm our hearts, and speak to you of our professionalism, compassion, and the true value of the services we provide.

Dear Tom, There are just not enough words to express my deepest gratitude to you and Vanderwall Funeral Home. Vanderwall Funeral Home enabled me to keep a promise that I had made to my grandmother on the night that she died, to make sure that my mother was buried in the family plot in Graysville. Vanderwall Funeral Home helped to kick the rocks out of the path, on the way back to Graysville. I have sung your praises near and far. From the Estes in Oliver Springs to the Burnett’s in Rockmart and Atlanta. I have recommended that everyone use your funeral home for your personal services and compassion – no matter where they buried. Y’all were really there at the lowest time in my life. I was an only child, and had never had to go through all the decisions that have to be made during the funeral process, nor knew who to contact. The Vanderwalls walked me through each step, even though I was in another state. I would give your organization a seven star rating on a five star scale. Vanderwall Funeral Home is the best that I have ever seen, and I would never consider using or recommending any other funeral home – ever. I do not use social media. But I really do highly endorse anything that Vanderwall Funeral Home is involved with. As long as I live, I well never be able to thank you enough with the final decisions in life. Lara Peek, Roswell, GA

5 stars
Lara Peek September 07, 2023

Vanderwall Funeral Home, Inc.

I wish I had more words to express my families experience with Tom and Vanderwall Funeral Home. We are very grateful to have met someone to help us in this process. I appreciate everything you have done for my mother Angie Chapman and could never thank you enough. The stress and weight you have lifted from her shoulders will now give my family the time to grieve. Tom went above and beyond to help us for services in Michigan and in Tennessee. Thank you again for everything - Alyssha, Battle Creek MI

5 stars
Alyssha Mitchell November 06, 2020

Vanderwall Funeral Home, Inc.

Tom Vanderwall served and became an understanding friend during a time of sadness. During a time of confusion Tom displayed patience and gave advice that helped me with making hard decisions. Most importantly, thank you Tom for reminding me of hope anchored in Christ, for bringing me back to what really matters most in life. God bless you.

5 stars
Stephanie Hartz June 19, 2020

Vanderwall Funeral Home, Inc.

I want to thank Tom Vanderwall and the rest of the staff at Vanderwall funeral home in Dayton for working with me and making a difficult time easier. Thank you for helping me through the funeral process. I had no idea where to begin, and you walked me through each part. I appreciate the compassion you showed my family at this difficult time. Words cannot express my appreciation for all that was done. Your professionalism and graciousness were outstanding, and I will never forget.

5 stars
Summer Hicks August 27, 2019

Vanderwall Funeral Home, Inc.

On the occasion of our tragic and unexpected loss Tom and the staff at Vanderwall Funeral Home provided us with the comfort and professional care we needed. They were flexible and attentive to all our needs and wishes from the first call to the final service at Rhea Memory Gardens. We are grateful.

5 stars
Peter Held August 09, 2019

Vanderwall Funeral Home, Inc.

Two weeks ago Tom and his staff went out of their way to prepare mom for her viewing and funeral. He worked with her and dad tirelessly and honored her wishes. They handled the crush of people, stayed late and always had a smile. You'll be glad your loved ones used his services when the unfortunate time comes. Kind, fair and concerned describes them the best. Thank you again Tom for the work you did on mom and calming dad.

5 stars
Chuck Hall August 30, 2018

Rhea Memory Gardens

As a clergyman of 36 years, Vanderwall Funeral Home in my experience is more than a mere "funeral home." It is a place of stabilizing comfort and hope, because the Vanderwall family and staff are authentic in their grief with you, yet gently strong for you, as you painfully enter a new phase of your life.

5 stars
Dave Hobbs February 24, 2018

Vanderwall Funeral Home, Inc.

Dear Tom Vanderwall, Along with All the Dedicated Professional Staff of Vanderwall Funeral Home. The family of Mrs. Dixie C. Yates, from the depth of our hearts, thanks all of you, so very much, regarding the elegant manner in which, with honor and dignity you performed your duties during the recent loss of our beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Sister and Dear Friend to all she met - Ms. Dixie. Yours was a labor of Love and Care; not only for the Deceased, but as well for the loved ones, left behind, in their time of loss and grief. Again, thank you all for a job well done. May God bless and keep all of you. The Family of Dixie Yates

5 stars
Dixie Yates May 20, 2014

Tom, we are truly blessed to have you for our friend. May God bless you in all you do. You are a true example of God's love. We love you. Thank you, Tedra and family

5 stars
JoeAnn Everett October 03, 2013

Dear Tom, I can't thank you enough for all you've done. You are the most comforting person. The way you take over when people (like me!) can't think straight after such a terrible loss. I remember what a rock of comfort you were in taking care of everything when Mother died. The pictures on the memorial programs were perfect and brought such comfort to Wes' children. Robin and Bonnie are going by to take care of all the expenses. If there is more, please let us know. What about that wonderful picture? I wanted to keep it so bad, but I gave it to Wes' son, who was so thrilled to get it. I can't thank you enough for all you've done and your wonderful support last week. Bless you! We love and appreciate you. Glenn & Pat

5 stars
Wesley Irons May 21, 2013

Dear Tom and the Vanderwall Family and Staff, Thank you so very much for everything you've done to help make this difficult time easier to bear and to handle for me and our family. We are sincerely appreciative of your kindness toward us, your caring support and the professional, yet loving way you took care of our Mom and everything to do with her services and interment. You helped to make this sad occasion one of celebration, as we remembered her life and said farewell as she went home to be with our God. Thank you and God Bless You All!

5 stars
Minnie Wilkerson August 17, 2012

Tom, you thought of every detail so I didn't have to. For that, thank you, Candi

5 stars
Bobbie Garrison August 13, 2012

I cannot say enough about Tom Vanderwall and his employees. They not only took great care of my moms service in Tennessee but also helped with getting her a headstone in Michigan as well and has text me checking on me weekly to ensure I am doing ok. I have never had such great care and awesome service from anyone and it has been greatly appreciated. He went above and beyond his call of duty for my mother Barbara Hoefler. Thank you again for all you have done for my family!

5 stars
Angela Chapman November 18, 2020

In a time of inexpressible grief, it is a great consolation to find friends. The services at Vanderwall Funeral Home was not merely a professional exercise, but one of true benevolence of a neighbor. Not only was every nice thing taken care of and all necessary things to ease the pain, but many extras thrown in. And to add a neighborly touch, coming home from the funeral with a house full of guests, and a banquet of food, the water main had broken and we had no water. It was suggested we ask if we could use the funeral home dining area, and it was immediately and graciously granted. Drinks and cookies were added, a perk which makes for a nice touch of kindness; our visiting friends from other locations marveled that they had never seen the like at other places. Thank you for all this display of Christlike care and comfort.

5 stars
June Griffin July 31, 2020

My Family and I would like to thank Mr. Vanderwall (Tom) and his staff for all their help and support through the most difficult time in our lives. Tom and his staff cared greatly for my mother who passed and my family. Tom was so helpful and easy to contact with any questions we may have had. (Believe me I had a lot!) Rhea Memory Gardens is also one of the most beautiful places we could have laid Mom to rest. Thank you Tom!

5 stars
Nichole Hudson June 05, 2020

I want to thank Tom Vanderwall and the rest of the staff at Vanderwall funeral home in Dayton for working with me and making a difficult time easier. Thank you for helping me through the funeral process. I had no idea where to begin, and you walked me through each part. I appreciate the compassion you showed my family at this difficult time. Words cannot express my appreciation for all that was done. Your professionalism and graciousness were outstanding, and I will never forget.

5 stars
Summer Hicks August 26, 2019

During a time of great sadness for our family, the Vanderwall staff came alongside us and eased our burden. Their attention to detail, thoroughness, and diligence to prioritize our wishes was greatly appreciated. Every step of the way, they maintained a disposition of compassion and a calming presence. We are deeply grateful for the service and ministry they provided to our family.

5 stars
Amanda Opelt June 10, 2019

"Tom, our entire family is deeply grateful for all your kindness and attention in our time of loss. You, and your staff have an excellent service, above and beyond! Thank you again."

5 stars
Noemi C. July 27, 2018

Words can't express the gratitude my husband and I feel when we think of all the support you all gave us from the moment we stepped in your parlor for the first time to discuss arrangements to the final hand shake when we took him to his final resting place. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Thanks, Alison and Keith Taylor

5 stars
Langley Owsley June 30, 2014

Dear Mr. Vanderwall, You are so kind. Thank you for all that you are doing for my in-laws. God bless you and your family always! Sincerely, Wendy Yates

5 stars
Dixie Yates March 25, 2014

Tom, You and your staff were so wonderful to me and my family during our time of grief for Mom. You surpassed my expectations hitting ALL the marks. I will always remember Mom's passing funeral with a hopeful smile. Mitchell

5 stars
Betty Standifer October 01, 2013

Tom, I don't know how to thank you for everything you have done for my family. Your vocation is truly your calling and you have blessed us beyond measure by your kindness and helpfulness. The despair and confusion of losing my brother so tragically was greatly eased by your help. May God richly bless you. Sincerely, Robin Jones

5 stars
Wesley Irons May 21, 2013

Tom, I know you will say "It is my job", and it is, but not everyone does their job as you do. With caring, kindness and sincere sympathy. Whenever I felt lost, you were there to guide me and show me what to do. I deeply thank you from my heart. I felt that the choices you helped us make really did honor Mike and gave us all dignity. Since we had to let him go, I felt like we gave him a good send-off in style. Thanks again for all that you and your team did for all of us and especially for me. You are appreciated.

5 stars
Michael Stuart August 13, 2012

My father-in-law, Donald Lewis, passed away on Sunday and we had his funeral with you yesterday. I just wanted to send a letter of thanks for all you did. Thank you for working with us financially, as well as providing such a good experience. In addition to the beautiful chapel and the provided refreshments, you were all very professional, yet friendly. We felt like you went above and beyond to provide a good experience for us in a potentially very stressful time. Thank you for providing such quality service during a time when you know all of your clients are barely able to make it. I will definitely be recommending you in the future. Thanks again.

5 stars
Donald Lewis July 11, 2012