Dunbar Funerals and Cremations

With a history dating back to 1884, Dunbar Funeral Homes have become a cornerstone of the Columbia community. Our caring, dedicated staff is what sets us apart. We take great pride in fulfilling each and every family's unique needs by providing the most dignified, professional service available, whether you are in need of immediate assistance or would like to plan your arrangements in advance. Since its founding, Dunbar Funeral Home has continued to grow and has remained a much respected establishment in the Columbia area. The business still lives up to the standards set forth by founder J.M. Van Metre in 1922 stating: Our inspiration�to do the right thing at the right time in the right way; to do some things better than they were ever done before; to be courteous; to be an example; to work for love of the work; to anticipate requirements; to recognize no impediments; to master circumstances; to act from reason rather than rule; to be satisfied with nothing less than perfection. At Dunbar Funeral Homes, we believe that every life is unique, and every funeral should be too. We celebrate life. And for those who wish to plan their arrangements in advance, we offer The Simplicity Plan® prearrangement program, an easy way to handle an important family responsibility. Dunbar offers three locations in the greater Columbia area to better serve your family. Dunbar Funeral Home (Devine Street, Columbia) John Dunbar, Jr. purchased our Devine Street location in 1962. Originally known as Oaklawn Funeral Home, this Dunbar facility was built in 1959. The Devine Street location underwent a renovation in 1999, doubling its size. The recent expansion is a reflection of Dunbar's commitment to the families of Columbia, and recognition of change within the community. Our beautiful funeral home is 18,000 square feet and features eight visitation rooms and an inspirational chapel with seating for up to 280 guests. Because of our increase in size, Dunbar is able to accommodate requests of all kinds in our large gathering and visitation spaces. In 2002, Dunbar Funeral Home received The American Institute of Architects, Columbia Section Merit Award, and in 2004 received The American Institute of Architects South Carolina Chapter Merit Award. Dunbar Funeral Home (IRMO) The Dunbar standards of quality and dignity continue throughout our Irmo location, which was opened to provide service to families in the Dutch Fork area. Built in 1989 and consisting of 11,000 square feet, the funeral home sits on beautifully landscaped grounds. It is a Southern Colonial adaptation of the Greek Revival style. Inside, you will find a spacious lobby and reception area and three visitation rooms that can expand to seven if necessary. A simple, beautiful chapel seats up to 300 guests in custom-made maple pews. Families may enter through a private, covered entrance and can choose to be seated in the privacy of a family room. A separate room is available for the minister, organs and choir to use before services. Between the main building and the chapel, an atrium space allows light to enter from both sides of the chapel. Dunar Funeral Home (Gervais Street, Columbia) Dunbar's Gervais Street funeral home is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and was first built as a private residence in 1885. In 1924, founder John Dunbar opened the doors of this impressive house as a funeral home. It encompasses 8,000 square feet and includes three visitation rooms and a chapel comfortably seating up to 150 guests.