Lakeland Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens | Funeral & Cremation Services for Lakeland, FL - Lakeland, FL - Lakeland, FL

Who We Are

Our staff of professionals has years of experience caring for families from all walks of life. Each comes to us because we are leaders in our profession, with dedication to service and professional integrity.

When we sit down with a family, our shared goal is to create a fitting, memorable and affordable service for their loved one. We offer them a wide variety of services and products, as well as a wealth of creative ideas and suggestions. Together, we'll design a memorial or funeral service that suits their needs now, and in the future. Families who come to us know that years from now, they will have deep peace-of-mind because in coming to us, they've done their best to honor their loved one.

Our History

J.T. Oldham came to El Dorado from Iowa in 1879 to establish a furniture factory and be a dealer in furniture and carpet, and as was the case most of the time during this era, to establish an “undertaking parlor.” In all likelihood, Oldham manufactured the caskets or “coffins” in the same area he made furniture. In 1893, Oldham sold half his furniture business to J.R. Putnam, and in 1900, Putnam purchased the remaining half of the furniture business. Oldhamcontinued the undertaking business and in 1904 took in an associated by the name of Harry Washington. The 1902 El Dorado Business Journal also lists under “Undertakers,” A.R. Castle, who practiced in the “undertaking rooms” at the J.T. Oldham building. In 1916, F.M. Byrd of Parnell, Missouri, a graduate and practicing veterinarian, came to El Dorado and purchased the undertaking business from Oldham. While practicing Veterinary Medicine, Byrd was also preparing himself for the funeral profession, and was issued a diploma and license by the State of Kansas. He was accompanied by his brother, C.F. Byrd, as a partner in the business until 1929 when C.F. Byrd moved to Wichita to open a funeral home in that city. The Byrd Brothers Undertaking Company operated in the Oldham building at 203 S. Main St. for four years or until 1920 when they purchased the Dr. Fullinwider home at 200 S. Star. They converted the Fullinwider residence into a Funeral Home where the business has been located for over 80 years. In 1928, Clarence Wilke and Harry M. Harris joined the firm. These men were sons-in-laws of F.M. Byrd. The name was now changed to Byrd Funeral Home. In March of 1931, a completely new addition and remodeled building was dedicated and billed as on of the “most modern funeral home in Kansas.” In 1936, Glen Dietz came to the funeral home as an apprentice under Clarence Wilke. He worked until he was called into the Navy during W.W. II. Upon his release from duty in 1945, he returned to his position with the funeral home. In 1952, the funeral home was sold to Gerald and Carrol Byrd of Wichita, the sons of Claude F. Byrd. At this time Glen and his wife Loretta purchased a funeral home in Erie, Kansas where they remained until 1956 when they returned to El Dorado and purchased the funeral home. They along with Jack Pittman, the manager of Byrd-Snodgrass, operated the funeral home until 1960 when the Dietz’s became full owners. A new chapel was added to the home in 1968, and the firm was re-named Dietz Colonial Chapel. In 1974, Eugene and Betty Carlson moved to El Dorado from Solomon, Kansas, and purchased the funeral home and operated it until the death of Eugene in January 1993. Betty continues in the operation of the funeral home to the present time. Over the years many changes have taken place both inside and outside the building. Most notable were the erection of the four large pillars and porches on the front of the building in 1931 and the chapel in 1956. Many changes have occurred in the funeral service since the organization of this funeral home. In an issue of the El Dorado City Directory, during the 1880’s the funeral home advertised that they “used lowering devices”. These replaced lowering the casket into the grave by the use of ropes. Also, motorized equipment replaced the horse drawn hearse. Later changes which have affected the funeral business are the government agencies which are becoming more and more involved, the F.T.C, O.S.H.A. and the Environmental Protection Agency. The staff of Carlson’s who are serving the El Dorado and Butler County area are: Betty Carlson, who is still strongly active in the funeral home and other various organizations; Lionell Butts, a lifetime resident of Leon and El Dorado; and Darla Deaton, a lifetime resident of El Dorado. We here at Carlson’s strive to provide a professional service to families that will make a lasting impression of care and comfort.

Our Valued Staff

Ronnie Carl Hicks, Embalmer/Funeral Director In Charge

Ronnie C. Hicks was raised in Louisville, KY and graduated from high school in 1974. After completing high school he joined the U.S. Army and is a Vietnam War Veteran. Ronnie was with the 25th Infantry Division and his tours of duties include Hawaii, Ft. Sam, Houston, TX, and Ft. Know, KY as a Combat Medical Aidman. After serving 10 years in the U. S. Army he attended Mid America College of Funeral Service in Jeffersonville, IN where he received his Associate of Science Degree in Funeral Service. Ronnie has been a Lakeland, FL resident since 1985. He is a member of the United States Military Vets Motorcycle Club serving as the Vice President of the North Florida State Chapter and is also a member of the Polk County Veterans Council. Ronnie joined the Lakeland Funeral Home family in 2001 and is our lead embalmer and also the Site Safety Supervisor.
Elizabeth Franco, Funeral Director

Elizabeth “Lizzy” Franco was born in Germany and spent most of her life raised in Bayamón, Puerto Rico. She made her decision to become a Funeral Director during her senior year of high school at Miguel Meléndez Muñoz in Bayamón, Puerto Rico after losing one of her childhood friends. She became a graduate of Antilles School of Technical Careers in San Juan, Puerto Rico, as an Embalmer Technician and Funeral Director in January 2000. During her time in college she worked at the VA Medical Center in San Juan, PR as a secretary assistant and pathologist assistant. Lizzy started her career in the funeral industry in August 1999. She completed her Internship at Buxeda Funeral Home in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico and worked for Viner Funeral Home in Bayamón, Puerto Rico from December 1999 to November of 2002. Lizzy moved to Oak Grove, Kentucky in 2002 to further her career.
Lizzy returned to college and graduated in 2006 from John A. Gupton College of Nashville, TN and received her Associates Degree in the Arts of Funeral Science. In July 2007, She moved to Lakeland with her three children, and joined our Lakeland Funeral Home family as our first bilingual Funeral Director and Embalmer.
Elizabeth with her ethnic background helps our Hispanic community with her knowledge of the Latin American cultures and customs.
James Harrold Stewart Jr, Funeral Director

James H. Stewart Jr, (Jimmy) was born in Durham, North Carolina. He graduated in 1978 from North Mecklenburg High School and attended High Point College and Carolina School of Broadcasting. Jimmy is a veteran of the US Army serving during the Lebanon/Granada Conflict. In 2004 Jimmy chose the funeral proffesion as his carrer and joined the staff of Rose Mortuary in Knoxville, Tennessee. He completed his apprenticeship then attended John A. Gupton College in Nashville, Tennessee graduating in 2006 with an Associate of Arts in Funeral Service. While attending school he worked and lived at Woodbine Funeral Home in Nashville, Tennessee and worked part time at Rose Mortuary. He joined the staff of Highland Memorial Funeral Home in 2007. In 2009, Jimmy joined the staff of Lakeland Funeral Home as a Funeral Director and Embalmer. Jimmy has one son, Brad. He is a member of the American Legion Post # 4 and also attends Florida Southern College part time working towards his BA in business management.
Heather Norton, Funeral Director
Robert DeRushia, Funeral Assistant

Robert "Tito" moved to Lakeland in 2005 from Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia area. He retired from George Washington University Hospital after 28 years of service. Robert had always been fascinated by the funeral industry and decided to seek a new career. He joined our family in 2005 as a Funeral Assistant.
Ellen Distler, Ambassador

Ellen and her husband Chuck moved to Lakeland from Maryland on May 30, 1987. She worked at Florida Baptist Children's Home for over 7 years as a Houseparent. She also worked at Watson Clinic Kidney Center as a Dialysis Technician for over 9 years. Ellen retired on February 28, 2004. In July of 2008, Ellen joined our Lakeland Funeral Home family as an Ambassador.
Charles Distler, Ambassador

Charles "Chuck" and his wife Ellen moved to Lakeland from Maryland on May 30, 1987. Chuck worked at Florida Baptist Children's Home for over 7 years as a Houseparent. He also worked at Rubber & Accessories for over 9 years as a Shipping & Receiving Manager. Chuck retired on February 28, 2004. In July of 2008, Chuck joined our Lakeland Funeral Home family as an Ambassador.
Billie Reid, Ambassador

Billie and her husband Francis have been in the Ministry all their lives. They ministered in Central Florida since 1966. They moved to Lakeland from Daytona Beach in 1993. Billie and Francis have been married for 63 years; they have 4 children, 12 grandchildren and several great grandchildren. Billie enjoys sewing and spending time with her family. Billie and Francis, joined our Lakeland Funeral Home family in 2004.
Francis Reid, Ambassador

Francis and his wife Billie have been in the Ministry all their lives. They ministered in Central Florida since 1966. They moved to Lakeland from Daytona Beach in 1993. Francis and Billie have been married for 63 years; they have 4 children, 12 grandchildren and several great grandchildren. Francis is a retired Minister. Francis and Billie, joined our Lakeland Funeral Home family in 2004.
Terry Smith, Ambassador

Terry is a native of Royal Oak of Michigan. He attended Northern Michigan University. Terry is married with 2 sons and 2 step daughters. He served as a boy Scout Master and Little League Coach. His work history includes; store manager, VP of building supply company to owner of own business. Terry joined our Lakeland Funeral Home family in 2006 as an Ambassador.
Jerry Moore, Ambassador

Jerry moved to Florida in 1993 and retired in 2005. He worked in a funeral home for two years back in the early 60's. Jerry served in the US Army in the Vietnam and Korean wars and retired in 1975 and held the rank of Captain. He joined the Lakeland Funeral Home family as an Ambassador in March of 2006.
Jim Hirdes, Ambassador

Jim, married for 52 years with 3 children moved to Lakeland with his family in 1972 from Grand Haven, Michigan. Jim refereed football and baseball here in Lakeland. He is a member of Heritage Baptist Church. Jim joined our Lakeland Funeral Home family in January of 2004 as an Ambassador.
Andy Tuttle, Grounds Superintendant

Andy has been in the funeral industry since 1985. Andy joined Lakeland Memorial Gardens in 1999 as a Cemetery Supervisor. Andy enjoys camping and spending time with his family.
Albe Gonzalez, Grounds Crew

Albe moved to Lakeland from New York in 1996. Albe joined our grounds crew family of Lakeland Memorial Gardens in 1998. He is a proud father of 3 and enjoys spending time with his family.
Johnny Lee Christian Jr., Grounds Crew

Johnny moved to Lakeland and joined our grounds crew family of Lakeland Memorial Gardens in January of 1991. Johnny has a passion for riding his bicycle.
Ron Brewer, Grounds Crew

Ron Brewer a Floridian landscaper from 1958 to present. He also has an extensive background in traits job, to include welding, plumbing, irrigation, electrical and mechanic. Ron joined our grounds crew family of Lakeland Memorial Gardens in May of 2007. Ron enjoys spending time with his family.
Jackie Byrd, Grounds Crew

Jackie "Jack" a lifelong resident of Polk County. Jack has five kids and two grandchildren whom he enjoys spending time with. Jack joined our grounds crew family of Lakeland Memorial Gardens in May of 2006.
Joey Hewitt, Grounds Crew

Joey Hewitt is a groundskeeper with us at Lakeland Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens. Joey takes care of the gardens and services held here. Joey graduated from George Jenkins High School and on his days off you can find him playing hockey and rollerblading. Joey also loves fishing and any outdoor activity.
Suzie Wiggs Sanchez, Office Manager

Suzie began her career at Lakeland Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens in 1998 joining as the Front Office Receptionist. Suzie quickly realized her passion for this profession and was soon promoted to the position she currently holds as Office Manager. Suzie is a lifelong residence of Lakeland, where she graduated from George Jenkins High School. When she is not managing her qualified staff she loves spending time with her husband, daughter and step-son, whom are all members of Highland Park Church of the Nazarene.
Belle Andrews, Administration

Katura Belle Andrews is our youngest employee here at Lakeland Funeral Home, but has quickly taken on the responsibility of our Administrative Sales Assistant. Belle was born in Lakeland, but grew up in Katy, Texas. She plans on attending Polk State College in the near future. When not at Lakeland Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens you can find Belle at an antique car shows and spending time with her two dogs, Timex and Rolex.
Melissa Major, Administration

Melissa was born and raised in Florida and joined our Lakeland Funeral Home family in march of 2006. Her position as the front office administrator is endless and is always willing to help everyone that she comes in contact with.
Yolanda Santos, Administration

Yolanda moved to Lakeland in 1986 and joined our Lakeland Memorial Gardens family in 2006 as a our cemetery administrator. In this role Yolanda coordinates the managing of all our memorial orders. When Yolanda is away from the office she is spending time with her two daughters and three grandchildren. She also loves visiting her family in Chicago.
Michelle Mouncey, Administration

Michelle is a lifelong resident of Lakeland and thoroughly enjoys raising her two boys in the same town she grew up in. Michelle is no stranger to the funeral industry, having spent seven plus years with us at Lakeland Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens. Being an active member of our administrative team she takes great pride in helping families with any questions that might arise with any of their arrangement accounts.
Brandy Sowell, Administration

Brandy is a lifelong resident of Polk Conty. She became part of the Lakeland Funeral Home family in June of 2008 as an Administrative Assistant. Brandy became an EMT in december of 2009, she also enjoys spending time with her family.
Pamela Beck, Family Services

Pamela began her career at Lakeland Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens in 2004 as a Family Services Coordinator. She is a lifelong resident of Winter Haven, FL. Pamela is married to a wonderful husband, and has five beautiful daughters. She enjoys working out and spending time with her family.
Lisa Wood, Family Services

Lisa C. Wood, originally from Lakeland, spent 15 years in Tennessee where she raised her 3 children, got her degree and started her career in Family Service. Upon returning to Lakeland in 1999, she worked in the medical field until returning to Family Service with Lakeland Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens in 2006. Lisa is passionate about the responsibility that one has to his/her family regarding the inevitable obligation of making final arrangements. She is active in educating the community through seminars and speaking engagements to the fundamental steps of pre-planning and the benefits of providing protection and peace of mind to the love ones left behind. Lisa and her husband, Charlie are blessed with a blended family of 5 children and 4 grandchildren.
Mary Schack, Family Services

Mary came to Florida from Baltimore, Maryland in 1974. She began her career in the cemetery and funeral industry approximately 15 years ago, serving families as a Family Services Counselor and Advance Sales Counselor. She is currently serving the families here at Lakeland Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens as an Advanced Sales Counselor.
Orville Lee Dials, Family Services

Orville came to Lakeland, FL 28 years ago, after working 15 years with the Tampa Tribune. He joined Carriage Services with Lakeland Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens 13 years ago. Working in Family Services most of his career gives him the opportunity of helping families prepare for the future. He is happily married with 3 children and 4 grandchildren. He enjoys all sports especially, fishing, golfing, and bowling.