Our Story
Learn our story, from the beginning and into the future.
Ever since we opened our doors we have approached life (and death) differently. While some just see the end of a loved one’s life as a time for grief and mourning, we prefer to think of it as a time for reflection, appreciation and even celebration. This is evident in everything we do, from the way we conduct our services to the amenities we choose to offer. We are not a burial ground. We are a close knit community dedicated to honoring, sharing and preserving the amazing and inspirational stories that are life.

We've learned a lot over many years. Like how to present options without overwhelming. And how to meet the needs of many caring parties. People come to us in difficult times, and we respond kindness, calmness and expertise. Our goal is to create a beautiful occasion and make you feel welcome, always. We spend our days planning with families. We stay up to date with industry developments. And we make hard times a little easier.
Who We Are
Meet our staff. Members of the local community make everything that happens possible.
Together, we make this place amazing.

Gene Smith
Manager / Funeral Director and Embalmer
Gene is the Manager at Gardendale Heritage Funeral Home and has served the surrounding area for the past 34 years. He and his wife, Kerri, live and worship in the Gardendale community. Gene is so thankful to be a part of
and to serve the community that he lives in.

Karen Cook
Funeral Director
Karen is a licensed Funeral Director and Cremationist. She has been serving families in the funeral industry for over 20 years. She is a licensed Life Insurance Agent and facilitates families with pre-planning funerals also. Karen is also a Chaplain and serves with a non-profit Christian street ministry.

Miranda Murray
Office Manager
Miranda started working as Office Manger in October of 2020. Prior to this she worked as a Billing and Insurance specialist at a drug and rehab recovery facility. She and her husband attend church at Warrior Assembly of God, along with their two sons.
Explore Our Location
See where we are located.