In the News
McFarland's Funeral Chapel Celebrates 106 Years of Service
May 8, 2017
For a business to stay open for over 100 years, it must build and maintain a close connection to the community where it is located, and provide lasting service to that community.
Those are two reasons that McFarland Funeral Chapel in Tryon celebrated its 106th anniversary this week.
Service to the community is something the company takes pride in, noted Brian Metcalf, a funeral director and an owner at McFarland’s.
Another characteristic of McFarland’s is the longevity of service by employees. Metcalf has been at McFarland’s for nearly 19 years, and still projects a positive and energetic, yet dignified, demeanor.
“Our goal,” noted Megan Keller, marketing director of Premier Funeral Services, which is associated with McFarland’s, “is to help the families find the peace and closure they’re looking for, and to honor the legacy of their loved ones.”
Keller participated in the interview via telephone.
Founder Frank K. McFarland received the businesses operating license on May 2, 1911, when he passed the state embalming examination, becoming the first licensed embalmer in Polk County. McFarland had been selling caskets with Ballenger’s, a general merchandise store in Tryon.
The business began on the Tryon site now housing First Trust Bank.
McFarland, known as “Senior,” was assisted by his wife, Flora Fisher McFarland, who served as secretary and receptionist. From the beginning, their quiet and understated manner brought a reputation of dignity.
In 1962, McFarland’s moved to its present location, along Rt. 108 (Lynn Road), just on the Columbus side of Tryon. In 1979, an on-site crematory was added.
“We are the only on-site crematory in Polk County,” Metcalf pointed out. “The body does not leave our care.”
Expansion took place in 1994, with the addition of two visitation rooms, a new office and a conference room. This expansive and quiet nature of the building enables McFarland’s staff to meet privately with grief-stricken families who need privacy.
Regarding community service, Metcalf labeled it “a cornerstone” of their business, by supporting initiatives and relationships, and building and growing those relationships. A goal of McFarland’s, Metcalf emphasized, is to “be a touchstone in the community.”
A large facet of McFarland’s service to clients, Metcalf said, is to “walk the family through the process, and take the burden off them.”
Keller noted, “You’re working with families who are going through the hardest thing of their lives.”
Traditional caskets are still part of the variety of services McFarland’s offers, but Metcalf also pointed out that green burial (in bio-degradable caskets) is getting more prevalent.
Another service McFarland’s offers is “pre-need” planning, for which they are licensed by North Carolina. Under this plan, families pre-pay for services. The money is placed in an insurance policy as a hedge against inflation.
Such planning “puts control in the individual,” Keller noted.
“Some people know when they are going to pass,” Metcalf said, but, as he noted, loved ones often die with little warning. “It can take families off guard.”
To help protect against at least some of that shock, “families can come in early, and discuss needs and wants,” he added.
Keller referred to that planning as “pre-arranging.”
Taking on burdens to relieve family members, McFarland’s staff will try to gather vital information for the deceased’s death certificate, and have a doctor or medical examiner help determine the cause of death, according to Metcalf.
Then McFarland’s goes through the steps of filing with the county where the death occurred (even if that location is far away). Because of Tryon’s proximity to South Carolina, McFarland’s staff works in nearby Greenville and Spartanburg counties.
Also, because so many Polk County residents are U.S. service veterans, McFarland’s has a special protocol, Keller pointed out, noting that veterans are entitled to many provisions often unknown by family members.
“We work closely with Western North Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain,” Metcalf remarked. “We coordinate all that for the family. We try to commemorate the loved one in the way that the family would want.”
That also includes working closely with the Polk County Honor Guard, which “we are blessed to have,” said Metcalf.
Part of the community service offered by McFarland’s took place last week, when they, along with Stott’s Ford, paid for students’ lunches at Polk County Middle School on Friday. Last year, McFarland’s paid for a day’s worth of lunches at Polk County High School.
In addition, the company works closely with Foothills Humane Society and Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry, and promotes Breast Cancer Awareness Month. “We try to show our support,” Metcalf emphasized. Last year, McFarland’s made a donation to the Elizabeth Reilly Breast Center in Hendersonville.
McFarland’s also owns Polk Memorial Gardens in Columbus.
“That is a blessing,” Metcalf noted, “to have the only perpetual care cemetery in Polk County.”
At McFarland’s, Metcalf and Sean McKaig are funeral directors, while Metcalf also serves as general manager, part owner and partner. Megan Smith serves as office manager. Dennis Graham is a funeral assistant.
Metcalf noted that McFarland’s works with about 170 families per year.
McFarland Funeral Chapel Co-Sponsors Free Lunch for Local Middle School
May 3, 2017
Two longtime Polk County business mainstays are teaming up to provide free lunch to all Polk County Middle School students on Friday.
McFarland Funeral Chapel and Stott’s Ford will cover all costs of feeding the Polk County Middle student body on Friday. All sixth, seventh and eighth graders in attendance will be eligible to enjoy the free meal.
McFarland Funeral Chapel general manager Brian Metcalf and Stott’s Ford owner Robbie Stott presented checks to Polk County Middle School principal Hank Utz on Tuesday for the effort.
“It is such a treat for our students to be able to have a free lunch,” Utz said. “We appreciate all the community support we receive and are very appreciative of this support from McFarland’s Funeral Chapel and Stott’s Ford.”
McFarland Hosting Christmas Remembrance Service
November 17, 2016
Tryon, NC - On Sunday, December 4, McFarland Funeral Chapel, located at 54 McFarland Drive in Tryon, is hosting a Christmas remembrance event at its funeral home at 3 p.m. The event will be for grieving families working through the mourning process and commemorate those loved ones recently lost.
“The holidays can be really tough to get through when you’re mourning the recent loss of a family member or close friend,” explains McFarland general manager Brian Metcalf.
“McFarland Funeral Chapel wanted to put on an event for those who are struggling through the grieving process, so they know they’re not alone.”
This is the second year in a row that the local funeral home will be hosting a holiday remembrance event to comfort those who are grieving. Like last year’s service, the program will include inspirational and uplifting readings and music. After the event, families are invited to stay for refreshments. In addition, each family who has recently lost someone will receive a special complimentary Christmas ornament.
McFarland Funeral Chapel has served Polk County, North Carolina and the Upstate of South Carolina for more than 100 years. McFarland Funeral Chapel’s staff of dedicated individuals continue to offer to the community professional services with dignity.
McFarland Funeral Chapel is Thinking Pink to Raise Awareness
October 11, 2016
Throughout the month of October, McFarland Funeral Chapel, located at 54 McFarland Drive Hwy. 108 in Tryon, is thinking pink.
In order to show support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, staff members at McFarland Funeral Chapel will be wearing pink ties and scarves as part of the month-long initiative. In addition, the funeral home will be making a donation to Elizabeth Reilly Breast Cancer at Pardee Hospital, located at 800 North Justice Street in Hendersonville.
The Elizabeth Reilly Breast Center gives women and men access to advanced breast diagnostic and treatment services, including 3D mammography, ultrasound, and breast MRI.
“We’ve all been affected by cancer in some way, whether it’s through family members or the people who come through our funeral home,” explains McFarland general manager Brian Metcalf. “I survived cancer myself, so this cause has a special place in my heart.”
This past June, the Tryon funeral home sponsored the Survivor Tent at the Relay for Life event in Polk County which took place at the Stearns Education Center. Metcalf took part in the Survivor Lap, the first lap around the track that kicks off the event and celebrates those who’ve endured cancer.
“We hope this month helps people schedule a visit to their doctor and get a check up on their health,” says Metcalf. “Getting there early is the best way to treat it.”
For more information about McFarland Funeral Chapel and donating to breast cancer awareness, visit mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com or contact them at [email protected] or (828) 859-9341.
McFarland Collecting Donations for Louisiana Flood Victims
October 11, 2016
Throughout the month of October, McFarland Funeral Chapel, located at 54 McFarland Drive Hwy. 108 in Tryon, is thinking pink.
In order to show support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, staff members at McFarland Funeral Chapel will be wearing pink ties and scarves as part of the month-long initiative. In addition, the funeral home will be making a donation to Elizabeth Reilly Breast Cancer at Pardee Hospital, located at 800 North Justice Street in Hendersonville.
The Elizabeth Reilly Breast Center gives women and men access to advanced breast diagnostic and treatment services, including 3D mammography, ultrasound, and breast MRI.
“We’ve all been affected by cancer in some way, whether it’s through family members or the people who come through our funeral home,” explains McFarland general manager Brian Metcalf. “I survived cancer myself, so this cause has a special place in my heart.”
This past June, the Tryon funeral home sponsored the Survivor Tent at the Relay for Life event in Polk County which took place at the Stearns Education Center. Metcalf took part in the Survivor Lap, the first lap around the track that kicks off the event and celebrates those who’ve endured cancer.
“We hope this month helps people schedule a visit to their doctor and get a check up on their health,” says Metcalf. “Getting there early is the best way to treat it.”
For more information about McFarland Funeral Chapel and donating to breast cancer awareness, visit mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com or contact them at [email protected] or (828) 859-9341.
Polk Memorial Gardens Holding Remembrance Event
August 24, 2016
On Saturday, September 10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Polk Memorial Gardens will be holding a special Remembrance Event to honor loved ones who’ve passed away. The event is open to the public and will take place at the Polk Memorial Gardens, Hwy. 108 in Columbus, NC.
The event coincides with National Grandparents’ Day, Patriot Day, and National Day of Service and Remembrance, all of which are celebrated on September 11th.
“We wanted to host an event for the whole family to honor and remember those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 and our loved ones who are no longer with us,” explains McFarland general manager Brian Metcalf. “Even though they may have passed away, these individuals will live in our hearts forever.”
A ceremony led by Dr. Chris Osborn will begin at 9:00 am, followed by a presentation from the Polk County Veterans Memorial Honor Guard. The local fire departments, Polk County EMS, Rescue Squad and local law enforcement will be in attendance. McFarland Funeral Chapel staff members will be on hand until 1:00 pm to help family members find the graves of their loved ones and to provide helpful information about the cemetery.
As a special touch, McFarland Funeral Chapel will be providing complimentary flowers to attendees to place on the graves of their loved ones to pay their respects.
If families and friends can’t make it to this Remembrance Event on September 10, Polk Memorial Gardens will be holding a second event on September 24 at the same time, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For more information about McFarland Funeral Chapel and these two September events, visit mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com or contact them at [email protected] or (828) 859-9341.
McFarland Funeral Chapel Donates Air Conditioning Units to Area Families
July 28, 2016
This summer, McFarland Funeral Chapel, located at 54 McFarland Drive in Tyron, NC, donated two air-conditioning units to area families in need through Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry. The units were presented by McFarland’s general manager, Brian Metcalf, to George B. Alley, Executive Director of Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry.
“The summer months can be brutal in this region,” explains general manager Brian Metcalf. “By working with Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry, we hope to make these months as comfortable as possible for two area families.”
Since 1991, Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry has been providing Polk County residents with basic necessities, like food, shelter, and utilities. Other endeavors from the organization include affording students with school supplies, Christmas and holiday support, and prescription and medical assistance to patients, like wheelchairs and walkers.
During this past holiday season, McFarland Funeral Chapel collaborated with Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry to host a Christmas Eve Box Drive from November 1 to December 1, collecting items from area businesses and community members to put into 30 gift boxes for needy children in the region to enjoy on Christmas Eve. The local funeral home was happy to collaborate with them again on a summer endeavor.
“During the summer months, staying cool is something many people take for granted,” said McFarland office manager Megan Smith. “But for those who don’t have air conditioning, it can be a miserable and potentially dangerous situation as the temperatures climb. McFarland Funeral Chapel is happy to be able to help area families remain comfortable in their homes.”
To donate to the Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry or get involved with the organization, visit http://www.tboutreach.org/ or call (828) 894-2988. For more information about McFarland Funeral Chapel and its commitment to the Tyron community, visit mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com or contact them at [email protected] or (828) 859-9341.
McFarland Hosting Pet Food Drive to Benefit Humane Society
July 3, 2016
McFarland Funeral Chapel in Tryon, NC will be collecting pet food to benefit Foothills Humane Society in Columbus, NC from Friday, July 15, 2016 to Monday, August 15, 2016.
“Pets are very close to the McFarland staff’s hearts,” explains general manager Brian Metcalf.
“Both office manager Megan Smith and I have rescue dogs from Foothills Humane Society, and the funeral
home loves giving back to both people and animals in our community.”
In June, McFarland Funeral Chapel staff volunteered at the Foothills Humane Society shelter, and this past May, the funeral home was a business sponsor for the Humane Society’s Animal Fair fundraiser.
The local funeral home will be collecting the following items: dog food (wet and dry), cat food (wet and dry), and specialty dog and cat food. Those wishing to donate to the pet food drive can either bring items into the funeral home located at 54 McFarland Drive or schedule a pick-up with a McFarland staff member by calling (828) 859-9341 or emailing [email protected].
“The pet food drive is for such a great cause,” said office manager, Megan Smith. “The Foothills Humane Society does so much for the animals in our community, and this is a great way to support their efforts.”
For more information about the food drive or to schedule a pick-up, contact the staff at McFarland by emailing [email protected] or calling (828) 859-9341.
McFarland Provides Free Lunch for All Polk County High Students
March 29, 2016
McFarland Funeral Chapel Providing Free Lunch to Local High School
McFarland Funeral Chapel in Tryon has been providing meaningful funeral services to the local community for over 100 years. Now, the funeral home will be providing one day’s worth of free school lunch for all 725 students at Polk County High School.
“McFarland is honored to partner with the Polk County school district to provide lunch for the wonderful high school students in our community,” said general manager Brian Metcalf. “We understand how important it is for students to stay focused and energized so they can concentrate on their studies throughout the day.”
The free lunch day will be happening April 1, 2016, following the school wide talent show and is available to all students at Polk County High School.
For more information about the services provided by McFarland Funeral Chapel, please call 828-859-9341.
Christmas Memorial Service
November 19, 2015
McFarland Funeral Chapel Hosting Christmas Memorial Service for Families
Tryon, NC funeral chapel offers the community a special opportunity to remember their loved ones
during the holiday season.
Tryon, NC - The holiday season is typically a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a very sad time for those who have lost a loved one. In order to honor the memory of those who are no longer with us this holiday season, McFarland Funeral Chapel will be holding a Christmas Memorial Service on Sunday, December 6th at 3:00 pm.
“For over 100 years, we’ve helped families in the area create meaningful memorial services,” said general manager, Brian Metcalf. “For this event, we want to provide comfort to families who are missing their loved ones during the Christmas season.”
The Christmas Memorial Service will feature a program of inspiring messages and music to fill families with hope and encouragement. Guests will be able to reflect on the memories of their loved ones and incorporate their loved ones in their Christmas celebration. After the service, guests will be served light refreshments.
The Christmas Memorial Service is open to all families. If you are interested in attending, please RSVP by calling 828-859-9341 or emailing [email protected].
Christmas Eve Box Drive
November 12, 2015
McFarland Funeral Chapel in Tryon, NC is giving back this holiday season by providing gifts for local children in need to open on Christmas Eve.
The holiday season is a time of joy and excitement, especially for young children. However, there are many children in the local Polk County community who are in need of some extra care this Christmas. In order to spread holiday cheer to children in need, the staff at McFarland Funeral Chapel is hosting a Christmas Eve Box Drive.
“A Christmas Eve Box is simply a box filled with small gifts to be opened by a child on Christmas Eve to make the holiday a little more special,” explained general manager Brian Metcalf. “The holidays are about giving back and we are happy to do our part.”
McFarland’s goal is provide local children with Christmas Eve Boxes and they are asking for help in order to fill each one with gifts. McFarland Funeral Chapel will be taking donations of new or unopened items from November 1st, 2015 – December 1st, 2015. Items needed include: pajamas, books, toothbrushes, gloves, socks, stuffed animals, cookies, and hot cocoa packets. Items can be dropped off at the funeral home or individuals can contact the funeral home to schedule a local pickup.
All items collected by December 1st will be assembled into Christmas Eve Boxes and distributed to families by Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry. Any leftover items will be donated to the Polk County Department of Social Services.
“We hope these Christmas Eve Boxes will be a blessing to families who need a little extra support this holiday season,” said office manager Megan Smith. “We are honored to continue to serve the wonderful families in our community.”
For more information on the Christmas Eve Box Drive or the services provided by McFarland Funeral Chapel, please call (828) 859-9341 or email [email protected].
Open House
October 7, 2015
McFarland Funeral Chapel to Present Open House to Public
McFarland Funeral Chapel is excited to welcome Tryon-area residents to an upcoming open house and information session on October 13.
A long-time Tryon fixture, McFarland Funeral Chapel has been serving the needs of North and South Carolina families for more than 100 years. As part of its continuing effort to support the community, McFarland will be hosting an open house for the public on October 13. Guests will have an opportunity to meet the staff and learn about funeral home offerings and services.
“At McFarland Funeral Chapel, we are passionate about providing meaningful services that celebrate life,” said Brian Metcalf, general manager at McFarland. “We’re excited to welcome local families to an open house on the premises so they can learn more about our staff and services.”
Held at the McFarland Funeral Chapel in Tryon, the event will take place from 5pm to 7pm. In addition to presenting information on funeral offerings, the McFarland team will discuss the benefits of pre-need planning. By making end-of-life decisions in advance, individuals can decide how they want to be memorialized while reducing the burden on loved ones left behind.
“Funeral planning is incredibly personal,” said Megan Smith, office manager at McFarland. “With pre-need planning, individuals can select services that reflect their unique tastes and standards.”
Along with the chance to learn about McFarland Funeral Chapel, attendees will have access to various businesses including Funeral Home Gifts, Polk County Veteran’s Memorial Honor Guard, Homeward
Angels White Dove Release, and Columbian Financial Group. Additionally, Hospice of the Carolina Foothills will provide information on grief counseling.
The funeral home will also be serving light refreshments. The local music group, Colt Creek, will provide musical entertainment. Additionally, McFarland will be holding a raffle with great giveaways. All Tryon-area families are welcome to attend.
Johnnie B. McDowell (1931 ~ 2021)
In Loving Memory
Born in Landrum, he was the son of the late Howard McDowell and Tecora McDowell. Mr. McDowell worked 50 plus years at McFarland Funeral Chapel. He enjoyed farming, fishing, and hunting. Mr. McDowell was a member of Landrum Springs Baptist Church.
William Harold "Hop" Foster (1939~2023)
In Loving Memory
A native and lifelong resident of Saluda, he was the son of the late Crawford Foster and Meda Lusk Foster. Hop was a graduate of Saluda High School and played many sports. Hop went on to work for Cranston Print Works and retired as a supervisor. During the years, Hop was very involved with the community.
Hop served with the Saluda Fire & Rescue for years, serving in every capacity possible from Chief to later president of the board of directors. Hop was instrumental in the building of the Old Saluda Fire Department, which is now the Saluda Senior Center, and purchasing the department's first new engine.
Hop also was very involved with Saluda School having helped on many projects to benefit the children of Saluda and refereed basketball games at Saluda. He also was involved with coaching little league baseball at Harmon Field. Hop was a longtime member of Saluda United Methodist Church having served as a board trustee. Hop joined McFarland Funeral Chapel in 1998 serving families on visitations and services until his health declined. Being an avid golfer, Hop worked at the Tryon Country Club in the Pro Shop for several years.
One of Hop’s biggest moments each year was being the Master of Ceremony at Coon Dog Day in Saluda organizing and announcing the floats in the parade for 50 years. Saluda has truly lost a dedicated servant of the community and will be sorely missed.
Barbara Jean Horne (1944 ~ 2022)
In Loving Memory
Born in Tryon, she was the daughter of the late Charles Franklin Richards and Florence Isabell Waters Richards and widow of Burdette Horne who passed away in 2003. Growing up in Tryon, Barbara and Burdette married in June of 1973 and made Campobello their home. Barbara worked for over 30 years doing housekeeping at McFarland Funeral Chapel and area homes. When not working, her passion was her family. She would make daily phone calls to her family making sure everyone was okay. Barbara was a faithful member of Inman First Freewill Baptist Church and attended the Disciples Sunday School Class.
Dennis R. Graham (1959~2023)
In Loving Memory
A native and lifelong resident of Henderson County, he was the son of Joe Graham and Nancy Rhodes Graham of Hendersonville. Dennis was a graduate of Hendersonville High School. Following high school, Dennis went to work for Cranston Print Works until its closure.
Dennis began his career in Funeral Service in 1999 at Thos. Shepherd & Son and later Shuler Funeral Home. He came to McFarland Funeral Chapel in 2010 and worked until his retirement in February of 2023.
Dennis had a passion for sports, he played football at Hendersonville High School and was an avid Atlanta Braves and North Carolina Tarheel fan. Dennis sang with Herbs Quartet for many years alongside his dad.
