Providing a comfortable place to gather and remember

Earthman Southwest Funeral Home blends comfort with modern amenities. Guests often remark on the beauty of our spaces, and we provide an environment that feels peaceful and inviting.

Our spacious chapel has comfortable pews. Its soft white and light gray palette is a serene backdrop for services of all kinds. A smaller room accommodates more intimate gatherings and viewings. After a service, you may want to gather in our reception area, just steps from the chapel. We can partner with a trusted local caterer to arrange anything from a casual breakfast buffet to a formal, sit-down dinner.

Guiding with purpose and heart

Our mission is to take your family through tender moments with empathy, professionalism and care. We believe every life deserves a meaningful farewell, and we work closely with you to reflect your values, culture and faith.

Families from a wide range of religious and cultural backgrounds choose us. Our team is experienced in honoring diverse customs. We always work to ensure services are authentic and meaningful—whether incorporating sacred rituals, adapting to specific timelines or blending spiritual and personal elements.

Offering personalized funerals and celebrations

We take the time to sit with you, to listen and learn what made your loved one special. From there, we design a service that truly reflects their spirit.

That might mean parking a classic car right out front for a lifelong auto enthusiast, serving a favorite meal like falafel sandwiches, or inviting guests to wear a loved one’s favorite color. If the service calls for it, our staff will dress in costume, or we can end a ceremony with a butterfly release. The possibilities are endless and personal for every loved one.

The history of Earthman funeral homes and cemeteries

James Bradshaw Earthman Sr. began his career as a blacksmith and livery service provider in Taylor, Texas. In those days, funeral homes were rare, and it was common for those in horse-related trades to lend a hand when a death occurred. When the town purchased a horse-drawn hearse, families often turned to Earthman, the trusted proprietor of the local livery stable, to help with their funeral needs.

In 1889, providing funeral services became James’ full-time profession. His company was among the first licensed providers in Texas.

A move to Houston

In 1904, James and a friend, railroad surveyor J.C. McCarty, moved to Houston and established the Earthman and McCarty Undertaking Company at 715 Main St. The company did well and, in 1924, James and J.C. built a funeral home at 2420 Fannin St. After J.C.’s death, the company became the J.B. Earthman Company.

After James B. Earthman Sr. died in 1931, James B. Earthman Jr. (J.B.), a St. Thomas High School and Rice University graduate, left his successful architectural career to manage the company. His wife, Blanche Bastien Earthman, worked with J.B. on daily operations. When Blanche earned her funeral director’s license, she was among the first women in Texas to do so.

A family tradition

J.B. pioneered funeral pre-planning, founding a burial insurance company in the 1930s. Together, J.B. and Blanche built Earthman Funeral Directors & Cemeteries into one of the largest family-owned-and-operated funeral companies in the United States. Their children and grandchildren joined to manage and expand the business. Some of them are still involved today.