Our History

When Skillern Hardware was established, in 1884, by Alex Skillern, it sold caskets and casket handles. In 1900, James Ison Latimer, Mr. Skillern’s son-in-law, started offering funeral services through the hardware store. The hardware store was also the local funeral business, as was often the case in those days. James I. Latimer was known as an honest merchant and funeral director. When Alex Skillern became inactive in his business, he relied on his son-in-law to continue to operate it until 1942. In 1935 Mr. Latimer moved his funeral business to an old house located on the corner of 3rd and West Howard Streets.

In 1937, his son, Jimmy Ison Latimer joined the company. After finishing high school in Nashville, he went to the Cincinnati Embalming College, where he graduated with high honors.

In 1945, another son, James Hearn Latimer joined the family business of Latimer Funeral Home.

After long years of planning, hard work, and careful supervision, the brothers moved the business into its new building, at 115 East Hempstead St., where it is located today. The new facility opened on March 1, 1959. Later on February 16, 1989, the firm opened the doors to its location in Murfreesboro.

Although the faces of this establishment have changed through the years, our mission has remained steadfast. That is to dependably serve families with the utmost pride, respect, and dignity. From our humble beginnings in the hardware store to the business it is today, we have had the great privilege of serving many families from different walks of life.

Our caring and dedicated professionals are available to offer support during the difficult moments of life. Services can be tailored to fit the needs and desires of each individual family. Feel free to contact our staff to learn more about our services and how we can help you. Our staff is trained to aid you in planning a personal, lasting tribute to your loved one. Carefully, we will guide you through the many decisions that must be made during this challenging time.