Reliable Smith & Thomas Funeral Home started after Emmanuel Smith, Mary Smith, and John Thomas [broke into and] took over the locks of the funeral home located at Madison Street in August 1984. The doors were officially opened to the public on October 1, 1984. Eventually, Smith and Thomas Funeral Homes, Inc. expanded from one funeral home to four, with the third one sold to the city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Mary Smith is the owner of all the funeral homes within the Chicago metropolitan area land as well as the only African American woman who owns three. She is recognized as a “People Who Care” entrepreneur. Mary cares for her clients, employees, and the community. On April 26, 2012, the Chicago Defender presented the Woman of Excellence plaque to Ms. Smith. The City of Chicago honored some of Mary Smith's accomplishments and public service by unveiling on November 7, 2013, a streetsign in her name (Smith & Thomas Funeral Home, n.d.).
The funeral home, Smith & Thomas have unconditional praise and approval from families who have experienced their services, with remarks acknowledging the comprehensive understanding provided to the grieving relatives. Their treatments of the posthumous look of the deceased got the eulogies and accolades. Many appreciate their fashion and the attention given to the home environment. Some customers felt comfortable and loved at the funeral home, citing employees such as Eric Smith who went the extra mile in making sure that the grieving period is seamless, making recommendations as well as providing luggage needed for posthumous events. Here is a review from a customer, "The staff were extremely knowledgeable and understanding and made sure to make recommendations. I could not find the makeup bag which was one of the items needed for the posthumous events. Eric Smith ensured I got a makeup bag and even supported my business.” There is a funeral home that makes you feel like family and offers the usual service and an extra mile experience. This is why these customers show their appreciation for the professionalism and compassion shown to them. The Client noted, "The compassion and professionalism that this facility showed to us during my mother's funeral were indisputable. Joel and Deja were forthcoming, and Eric told me, 'It is my duty and mission to maintain a fresh, clean appearance to make you comfortable and safe.’". Most of the families were satisfied with the way the funeral home provided them with a sense of fulfillment and good memories. Their exceptional customer service approaches made them feel at home at this home. "The support staff and management at Smith & Thomas funeral home gave us a feeling of satisfaction and joy during their various activities and service." \nIt was easy to choose this funeral home when my loved one passed on. I would do it again and recommend Smith & Thomas. This is a place where my loved ones deserve to be treated with compassion and empathy.
