History & Staff

We have years of experience caring for families, from all walks of life. Each family comes to us because they know we are leaders in our profession, dedicated to excellence in service, and have the highest integrity.

Our History

Our History

In 1932, Jay B. Smith and his wife Marie first established Jay B. Smith Funeral Homes when they purchased the Sarah Sutton Harrison mansion located in Maplewood, Missouri. The mansion was built in 1890. Through the years, although the mansion has been expanded and modernized several times, it's beauty and charm remain.

John B. Hardy joined the firm in 1948, working for the Smiths until the death of Jay B. Smith in 1956. Mr. Hardy purchased the firm and Marie Smith continued working until her retirement in 1967.

Today, Jay B. Smith Funeral Homes continues to be family owned and operated by John "Jay" Hardy. We offer funeral services and funeral pre planning in Webster Groves. With two convenient locations in Maplewood and Fenton, Missouri. Jay Hardy continues the dignified and trusted service that began in 1932, providing hometown values and personalized service, always at an affordable cost.

Contact us today for more information.

Our Valued Staff

  • David Work

    David Work Funeral Director/Owner

  • Jay Hardy

    Jay Hardy Funeral Director

  • Nikki Lynn Ham

    Nikki Lynn Ham Funeral Director/Embalmer

  • R. Beth Akers

    R. Beth Akers Funeral Director/Manager

  • Stephanie Brown

    Stephanie Brown Funeral Director/Embalmer

  • Steve Chancellor

    Steve Chancellor Assistant Funeral Director

  • Riley Work

    Riley Work Apprentice Funeral Director

  • In Memory of Forrest Hobbs

    In Memory of Forrest Hobbs