History

Founded in 1946, Claybar Funeral Home has always been committed to caring for families during the most difficult of times. The Claybar story began in 1946 when Ambrose Claybar converted a residence in Orange into a funeral home. When World War II ended, Lannie Claybar returned from service to join with his brother in the business and committed himself to service. Lannie Claybar and his wife, Marjorie Brown, built the business into Orange's leading funeral service provider. Lannie Claybar was a gifted individual with incredible people skills and a genuine compassion. Lannie was also an accomplished pianist.

Lannie died in 1969 and the torch was passed to Marjorie and David Claybar; Brown Claybar joined the family business in 1973. With the second generation, a new facility was built in Orange. This new facility is located at 504 5th Street, which is adjacent to the original building site.   David Claybar served as President of the company from 1969 to 1980.

A period of growth

In 1980 Brown Claybar assumed the leadership of the corporation. The 1980s started a period of growth. While continuing to be the leading funeral home in the Orange area, expansion became a business strategy. Shared cost and regional personnel efficiency benefited our funeral staff and clients. During this period the following companies were purchased by Claybar Funeral Home:

*Clayton - Thompson Bridge City Funeral Home - Bridge City, Texas

*Hillcrest Memorial Gardens - Orange, Texas

*Orange Forest Lawn - West Orange, Texas

*Fuller Funeral Home - Orange, Texas

*Kelley-Watkins Funeral Home - Beaumont, Texas

*Haven of Rest Crematory and Cemetery - Beaumont, Texas

*Claybar Floral Shop - Beaumont, Texas

Brown Claybar also is a partner with Roy Carroway, Jr. and together they own and operate the Carroway-Claybar Funeral Homes in Lufkin and Huntington, Texas.

Current Management

In May of 2007, Warren Claybar was elected President of the corporation and Brown was elected Chairman of the Board of Directors. Warren represents the third generation of the Claybar family leading the company. He and his capable management team perform the day to day activities of the company, keeping the founders' ideals in focus. Brown Claybar continues to be active in the business.