OUR HISTORY
Learn Our Story, From the Beginning & Into the Future
Ever since we opened our doors in 1919 on 4th St. in Bethlehem, we have approached life (and death) differently. While some just see the end of a loved one’s life as a time for grief and mourning, we prefer to think of it as a time for reflection, appreciation and even celebration. This is evident in everything we do, from the way we conduct our services to the amenities we choose to offer. We are a close knit community dedicated to honoring, sharing and preserving the amazing and inspirational stories that are life.
Francis J. Connell, Sr.
Our Founder
Why Us?
Experience. Professionalism. Compassion. Empathy.
We've learned a lot over many years. Like how to present options without being overwhelming. And how to meet the needs of many caring parties. People come to us in difficult times, and we respond with kindness, calmness and expertise. Our goal is to create a beautiful ceremony and make you feel welcome, always. We spend our days planning with families. We stay up to date with industry developments. And we make hard times a little easier.
Learn the Legacy
Connell Funeral Home, Inc. was founded by the late Francis J. Connell, Sr. in 1919. Since then the Connell family has served the needs of the great residents of Bethlehem, Allentown, Easton and surrounding areas with dedication and distinction. Mr. Connell, Sr. based his efforts on a simple philosophy of true care, concern and compassion for his fellow man. Built on this foundation the Connell name has become synonymous with funerals in the Lehigh Valley.
In the 1940's Mr. Connell was joined by his son, the late Francis J. Connell, Jr. This led to the opening of a second location on Broad Street in Bethlehem in 1952. Their practice thrived and grew along with the community, continuing on a steady path of expansion, becoming the most often selected funeral home in the Lehigh Valley.
The 1970's brought the addition of a third generation, Patrick and Eugene Connell. This led to further growth and a continuing increase in service to the families of the community. With an enthusiastic sense of dedication to the ideals of their predecessors, this generation of the Connell family has guided the firm on a steady path into the 21st Century. The facilities have been remodeled and redecorated several times. The professional staff has grown and everything that is required to serve the wishes and needs of those who call upon us is carefully attended to.
Center: Francis J. Connell, Jr. Second Generation
Left: Patrick J. Connell, Third Generation
Right: Eugen J. Connell, Third Generation
As much as things have changed over the years one thing has remained the same...the basic philosophy of our founder remains our credo...to serve with a true and sincere care, concern and compassion for our fellow man and to provide service beyond the expected...every step of the way.
Pictured Left to Right: Matthew Connell, Jamie Connell, and John Connell, Fourth Generation
Welcome to Our Funeral Home in Bethlehem, PA
Our Original Location
427 East Fourth Street, Bethlehem
Since 1919, the Connell family has proudly been serving the greater Lehigh Valley area, creating a place where the community can find comfort and support during their time of need. Conveniently located just a short drive away from several cemeteries, including Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem Memorial Park, Cedar Hill Memorial Park, and The Union Cemetery of Hellertown, our Bethlehem funeral home sees funerals as an opportunity to commemorate a life lived and an individual loved. As soon as you step foot in Connell Funeral Home, you’ll find comfort, care, and customization. We’ve designed our funeral home to suit the individual needs of every family who seeks our assistance. Our spacious sitting rooms feature elegant yet comfortable seating, giving your family and guests a place for quiet conversation. We offer choices for how you want to celebrate your loved one’s life. We have two service rooms large enough for over 100 guests, while we also have an additional third room for a more intimate setting.
In our desire to properly support everyone who comes through our doors, we’ve ensured that our facilities are handicap accessible, so you can rest assured that all of your guests can comfortably attend your loved one’s funeral service. We are always looking for ways to keep our Bethlehem funeral home up to date with the needs of our community.
In the 1940's Mr. Connell was joined by his son, the late Francis J. Connell, Jr. This led to the opening of a second location in 1952. Their practice thrived and grew along with the community, continuing on a steady path of expansion, becoming the most often selected funeral home in the Lehigh Valley.
The 1970's brought the addition of a third generation, Patrick and Eugene Connell. This led to further growth and a continuing increase in service to the families of the community. With an enthusiastic sense of dedication to the ideals of their predecessors, this generation of the Connell family has guided the firm on a steady path into the 21st Century. The facilities have been remodeled and redecorated several times. The professional staff has grown and everything that is required to serve the wishes and needs of those who call upon us is carefully attended to.
Our Second & Current Location
Opened By Francis J. Connell, Jr. in 1949
As the owners of one of the oldest funeral homes in Bethlehem, PA, the Connell family has been grateful for the support of the Bethlehem community and is honored to be able to return some of that assistance. From church functions to golf tournaments, we greatly enjoy sponsoring events that encourage the community to unite. Our funeral directors take their roles seriously as pillars of the community, having joined the boards for local youth baseball, hospice care, Northampton Community College, and ArtsQuest.
Building Exterior in the 1970's
Our Bethlehem funeral home is also a member of the Chamber of Commerce, while one of our funeral directors is a member of the Knights of Columbus. In an effort to further bring the people of Bethlehem together, Connell Funeral Home hosts a remembrance service during the holiday season. Our staff is service-oriented, both in the halls of our funeral home and throughout the streets of Bethlehem. When you come to Connell Funeral Home, you know that you’re working with a team who believes in providing only the best care and support. Please contact our funeral home in Bethlehem, PA, to learn more about what Connell Funeral Home can do for you and your family.
