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About Us

Who we are

Celebrating life since 1883

As a proud member of the Salt Lake City community since 1883, we're honored to help families celebrate their loved ones. We pledge to ensure that every funeral and memorial service is deeply personal, fostering healing and remembrance.

What we stand for

Our promise

Today, tomorrow, and forever, our commitment to you stays the same.

Dignity

Every life is unique, and we promise to honor and respect each journey, crafting ceremonies that reflect each individual.

Guidance

Navigating grief can be overwhelming; we stand by you, providing direction and solace every step of the way.

Legacy

Beyond a service, we're committed to helping families create lasting tributes that transcend generations.

Our story

In 1883 Edward G. O'Donnell purchased Utah Undertaking Company which became O'Donnell Mortuary Chapel and was located at 32 South 4th East in Salt Lake City.  The O'Donnell family has been well known throughout the Salt Lake Valley predominately serving the Catholic Community.  Edward's sons, Neil and Jack, joined him in the family business and they eventually became partners carrying forth their family service.  In 1931 Neil and Jack split their partnership, Jack O'Donnell remained at the O'Donnell Mortuary Chapel and Neil purchased a home located at 372 East 100 South which became Neil O'Donnell Mortuary.  Neil's wife, Stella Devine O'Donnell became the first woman to be licensed as a Funeral Director and Embalmer in the State of Utah.  In December, 1939, Neil O'Donnell Mortuary held a formal opening of their newly added funeral chapel.  Their son, Neil Devine O'Donnell Jr., followed in the footsteps of his parents carrying the family business forward.  In 1957 a modernization of the building was completed which included the addition of an office where funeral arrangements are made, a solarium was incorporated through the main entrance and a large covered porch was added.  Neil Devine O'Donnell Jr.  was joined in the business by his sons, Mike and Casey, and the Mortuary became known as Neil O'Donnell & Sons Mortuary.  Casey stepped away from the business in 1997 and his brother Mike continued the legacy of their family.  In 2005, Mike was pleased to have his daughter, Katherine O'Donnell Nilson, join him and together they carried forth the same kindness and compassion in serving so many wonderful families.

In April 2020 Neil O'Donnell and Sons Mortuary was purchased by Shawn Wiscombe  and has become known as Neil O'Donnell Funeral Home.  A very important facet of the transition of ownership is that Shawn recognized the tremendous heritage of the O'Donnell family and are committed to providing honor their legacy.  The Funeral Home has undergone significant renovations that  include a room displaying the history of the O'Donnell family.  Much attention was given to accentuate the beautiful architecture of the building and to create a bright and inviting atmosphere for all those who enter.  The design of the building allows for more intimate services and can also open up to accommodate very large gatherings, the large chapel will comfortably seat 130 for a traditional funeral service, it is easily transformed for those desiring a more casual setting or Celebration of Life, some prefer a service with catered food and the chapel will comfortably seat 120 for a sit down meal, some request a service with appetizers and bar service.  The new design allows many options to serve all families.  We believe that each life lived is unique and that services we offer should reflect upon and honor the individuals we are so honored to care for.

We invite all to be valued and respected in our space and we are so honored to continue the incredible legacy of the O'Donnell family.

10K+

Legacies Honored

140

Years in Business

Moments Remembered

Meet the team

Our incredible staff

Helping families create lasting legacies is more than a job — it's our calling. We are here to support you in any way we can and will offer you the full attention, knowledge, and compassion you need.

Our Location

A place of healing

We welcome you to explore the Neil O'Donnell Funeral Home facilities, and invite you to discover a comforting and peaceful place to honor your loved one.

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We're here for you

We exist to serve the unique needs of every family

Seamless Arrangements

We'll help you with everything you need with a simple step-by-step process for all of your funeral, cremation and cemetery plans.

Unique Funerals and Tributes

Every individual is unique. Which is why we offer fully customizable memorial services designed just for your family.

Hands stretch out to release birds into the colorful sunset, symbolizing hope and liberation.

Around the Clock Support

We're here to answer any questions and help in any way we can – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Reviews

Hear from the families we've served

“Beautiful historic funeral home with great staff.”

Author: Jeff Butler rated with 5 stars

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Plan Ahead

Plan for the future, today

Pre-planning lets your loved ones focus on honoring life instead of hashing out details. Learn the choices you can make now, so a future funeral becomes more of a celebration than a burden.