Carl Barnes Funeral Home

A welcoming Houston funeral home

Located in The Heights, in a single-story red brick building at the corner of West 22nd Street and North Durham Drive, Carl Barnes Funeral Home serves people from all walks of life and all faiths. With a large funeral chapel and a flexible space for memorials or receptions, we easily accommodate gatherings of different types and sizes.

When you first meet with a Carl Barnes funeral director or celebrant, we'll ask questions about your family traditions and your loved one: what he liked to do, what she cherished, how he thought about the world, how she liked to spend time. From there, we create a service that speaks to the unique life of your loved one. Inspire us with a memory of your loved one, a hobby that grew into a passion, a favorite music genre or a signature style, and we will work to incorporate as many personal elements as you would like into the service. Our team is also experienced in planning catered events.

Just let us know what you have in mind. We'll handle food, drink, decor and more. We'll also help you write an obituary, create a tribute video and assist you in choosing music.

A long history of caring for families

Founded in Houston in June 1932, Carl Barnes Funeral Home began as a new path for the Barnes family after their grocery store was affected by the Great Depression. With determination and vision, Carl and Maxey, along with their sons, Titus and Timothy, laid the groundwork for what would become one of the most respected names in funeral service.

By 1933, the funeral home was serving more than 60 families annually, and the business soon expanded to meet the growing needs of the community.

The early years looked very different from today. Embalming was often performed in family homes, with services following the next day. Funeral costs ranged from $250 to $500, and wakes were typically held on Saturday evenings. The Barnes family became known for innovation. As their business grew, they expanded their fleet, introduced limousine services and even operated an ambulance service. After World War II, Timothy launched a burial association to help low-income families secure affordable funeral coverage, demonstrating the family’s deep commitment to caring for all.

The Barnes brothers carried their father’s vision forward for decades. Titus and Timothy remained pillars of the business and the community. Carl Barnes Funeral Home was once the largest Black-owned funeral home in Texas, a point of pride in its history. Timothy was recognized as the oldest and longest-licensed funeral director in Texas until his death in 2013.

Today, the story continues under the leadership of Michael Jones. As location manager, he honors the Barnes family’s mission while guiding the funeral home into its next chapter.

Here for you and your family

We believe saying goodbye is not only about mourning a loss but also about honoring a life. From thoughtfully designed spaces to attentive, full-service planning, we’re here to create moments of comfort and celebration—because every life deserves nothing less. Reach out when you need us