About Us

Owner: Bart & Georgette Yost

Funeral Home Manager: Todd A. Miller

Rumsey-Yost Crematory is Lawrence’s Only Locally Owned and Operated Crematory.

For over 100 years, Rumsey-Yost has been known for helpfulness, integrity, and competency from the moment our services are requested. Personal care and attention to detail at fair and affordable prices have earned our firm its excellent reputation.

We appreciate the trust you give to us, and the opportunity to serve you and your family. We pledge to make available to you the best selection of merchandise and to set the standard for quality services.

Services for Your Needs

Rumsey-Yost offers all of the traditional choices in funeral services, as well as the widest range of contemporary options customized to your preferences.

Our funeral directors and staff are well-versed in the traditions of most religious and ethnic groups, and are equipped to respond to the variety of requests. We are prepared to answer your questions and to arrange services that reflect the life of the deceased and the needs of your family.

Our History

history

After having grown up in the Vinland community of southeast Douglas County, Charles Rumsey began his career in the funeral business in 1916 in Tonganoxie, Kansas. In 1920, Charles Rumsey moved to Lawrence and, along with his brothers, J.C. and H.C. Rumsey, founded the Rumsey Brothers Funeral Home.

In 1938, Charles sold his interest in the Tonganoxie business to his brothers, and formed a new partnership with the Lawrence funeral home with his two sons, they had grown up in the business while it was located at 643 Indiana Street.

The business was moved a block north to the new quarters located at 601 Indiana Street in 1931. The Rumsey’s continued the family business until 1978 when they sold the funeral home to Alfred J. and Fleda Ann “Shorty” Yost and Fred and Virginia Thompson.

In 1986, the Yosts became the sole owners of the funeral home. In January of 2006, Al passed away, after serving 50 years in the funeral service. In October of 2019 Shorty passed away and son Bart and his wife Georgette continue to provide the high level of service that the people of Douglas County have come to expect for more than 100 years.

Our Mission

The mission of the Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home is to support people with sensitivity and compassion during one of the most difficult times in their lives.

I have now been a funeral director for over 50 years, and during that time our world has changed. Many aspects of the funeral profession have changed.

However, I learned early that, to be a caring professional, I should always treat each person and each family in the same way that I would want someone to help my family and me. My staff and I believe in giving personalized care with dignity. That will never change.

— Al Yost

Our Staff

We are proud of our entire staff, and we are thankful for the unique talents, abilities, and interests of each one, as we work together to help you.

With many years of combined experience in service, ministry, business, and industry, we offer a vast array of assistance to you concerning matters of the heart.