This week we take a look back at the history of the McCafferty Funeral Home and the legacy of its original owners; C.E. “Mac” and Viola McCafferty. In January of 1905 the McCafferty Funeral Home opened to serve families of the Tonkawa community. The two story brick building was modernly equipped and achieved a feeling of “homey comfort” throughout. Prior to opening the funeral home the McCafferty family owned a furniture store downtown as did many funeral homes during that time. During the early 1900’s many visitations were still held in the family home. Furniture stores provided the casket prior to opening the mortuaries.
Mr. McCafferty was the licensed funeral director and his wife, Viola, was said to bring personal attention and care to the ladies and children they served. The fleet consisted of three motor service cars; a courtesy car (what we now call a hearse), motor service car (car for transporting family members to cemetery) and a motor ambulance. Ambulance, you may ask? Most funeral homes offered ambulance service well in the 1960’s. Already being on call 24/7, it made sense to be an extra helping hand when it came to emergencies.
Mr. McCafferty and his wife devoted their lives to the Tonkawa community for over 50 years. It was said their ethics were impeccable and respect for the both of them was tremendous . The last line of Mr. McCafferty’s obituary reads, “Well, done, good and faithful servant.”
Visit our Tonkawa Historical Society Facebook page for photos!
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