For 175 years, the Andrews Mortuary team has guided Wilmington families through some of life’s most difficult moments. At Andrews Mortuary Valley Chapel, we focus on creating meaningful, personalized funerals, memorials, cremations and celebrations of life. The atmosphere allows for both formal services and more relaxed gatherings, creating a setting where everyone can feel at ease while still honoring the moment. Whether you prefer a traditional service or a one-of-a-kind tribute, we will help you craft a memorial that honors and reflects your family’s wishes.

Personalization in Every Celebration

We firmly believe there's no one-size-fits-all approach to honoring a life. That's why personalization has become the standard in everything we do. We sit with you to listen and learn what made your loved one special. From there, we design a service that truly reflects their spirit by incorporating personalized touches.

That might mean incorporating a custom playlist, encouraging attendees to wear a specific color, or organizing a walk on the beach following the service. The possibilities are endless and unique to every family.

The History of Andrews Mortuary Valley Chapel

Andrews Mortuary traces its beginnings to 1850, when it operated as Woolvin Cabinetmakers and Undertakers, providing caskets and funeral services to Wilmington families. It remained under the Woolvin family name for decades, until Leon P. Andrews assumed ownership in 1925.

In 1934, a pivotal milestone came when Andrews opened a new, modern facility—the business's first purpose built funeral home. This expansion signaled a shift from a traditional establishment to a more contemporary operation, better equipped to serve a growing city.

In 1960, Leon’s son, Richard C. Andrews, continued this momentum by relocating the mortuary to its current home on Market Street. In 1982, a crematory was added to this location, making it Wilmington's first funeral home to offer this service.

In 1987, Richard opened the Valley Chapel location, which provided a more modern design and greater convenience to residents of south Wilmington. In 2006, the chapel was doubled in size.

Today, Andrews Mortuary stands as Wilmington’s oldest operating business. Through decades of compassionate leadership, it remains a trusted presence in the community.

Planning in advance

In addition to assisting with an immediate need, Andrews Mortuary Hampstead Chapel specializes in working with families to make final arrangements in advance. When you plan ahead, you relieve your family from financial and emotional burdens while ensuring your wishes are fulfilled. We offer in-person and virtual consultations, as well as a complimentary Personal Planning Guide.