Family-owned funeral home serving Philadelphia's Fishtown & Kensington communities for over 90 years. When you need us, we are here.
Every family is unique, and every life deserves to be honored in a way that feels right. We offer a full range of services tailored to your needs, traditions, and wishes.
A meaningful tribute with visitation, ceremony, and committal. We handle every detail with care and reverence so you can focus on family.
Learn MoreFlexible cremation options from simple and direct to full memorial ceremonies. We respect every family's preferences and budget.
Learn MoreHonor their spirit with a warm, personalized gathering that celebrates the joy and light they brought to every room they entered.
Learn MoreWe proudly serve those who served our country. Military honors, flag presentations, and assistance with VA benefits are our privilege.
Learn MoreProtect your family from difficult decisions during an emotional time. Lock in today's prices and ensure your wishes are honored.
Learn MoreHealing takes time, and you don't have to walk that path alone. We connect you with resources, support groups, and compassionate guidance.
Learn MoreIn 1933, in the heart of Philadelphia's Fishtown neighborhood, the McElvarr family opened their doors with a simple promise: to treat every family like their own. Over ninety years later, that promise has never wavered.
Through three generations, McElvarr Funeral Homes has been a quiet, steady presence in the Fishtown and Kensington communities. We have walked alongside families during their most difficult days, offering not just professional care, but genuine compassion born from decades of shared history with our neighbors.
Today, under the care of Larry McElvarr at our Susquehanna Avenue home and Lisa Glaser-Miller at the Hubert M. McBride location, we continue the tradition of personalized, heartfelt service. We know that no two families are alike, and no two farewells should be either. That is why we listen first and guide gently, ensuring every detail reflects the life being honored.
Whether your roots in this neighborhood run as deep as ours or you have just arrived, you are family to us.
Meet Our TeamPre-planning removes the burden of difficult decisions from your loved ones during an emotional time. It gives you the peace of mind that your wishes will be honored exactly as you envision.
Our step-by-step guide walks you through every important decision, so nothing gets overlooked. Thousands of Philadelphia families have used this checklist to prepare with confidence.
The trust of the families we serve means everything to us. Here is what some of them have shared about their experience.
The McElvarr family made one of the most difficult weeks of our lives so much easier. Larry treated us like we were his own family. He sat with us, listened to our stories about Mom, and helped us create a beautiful service that truly captured who she was. We will always be grateful.
When my father passed, I called McElvarr at 3 in the morning and someone answered right away. No voicemail, no runaround. They were at the hospital within the hour. That kind of care and responsiveness means everything when your world is falling apart. I recommend them to everyone.
Lisa at the McBride location was an absolute angel. She helped us plan a celebration of life for my grandmother that had everyone laughing and crying at the same time. It felt like Nana was right there with us. This family truly understands what it means to honor a life well lived.
We invite you to read about the remarkable lives of those we have had the honor of serving. Share a memory, light a candle, or leave a message for the family.
Share a few details about your loved one and our compassionate AI will create three personalized obituary drafts — each capturing their unique life and legacy. You choose, edit, and keep what resonates.
Two convenient Philadelphia locations serving the Fishtown, Kensington, Port Richmond, Northern Liberties, and surrounding communities.
Grief doesn't end after the service. McElvarr Funeral Homes offers compassionate aftercare, community connections, and free resources to support you through every season of loss.
Scheduled check-ins and supportive messages for one year after your loss — because grief follows no calendar.
We connect families with Philadelphia-area grief support groups, counselors, and community resources at no charge.
Download our compassionate guide to navigating loss — practical steps, emotional support, and local Philadelphia resources.
We remember with you. Thoughtful outreach on the anniversary of your loved one's passing and on special dates that mattered.
Whether you have questions, need guidance, or require immediate assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out. There is no wrong time to call.
In your time of need, we answer the phone day and night. You will always speak with a real person, never a machine.
(215) 739-1473 Call Now