Announcement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

A.S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home & Crematory Expands Legacy with Acquisition of Ford-Stewart Funeral Home

DECATUR, Ga. — A.S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home & Crematory is proud to announce the acquisition of Ford-Stewart Funeral Home in Jonesboro, Georgia, effective June 23, 2026. The funeral home will now operate as Ford Funeral Home & Cremation Services, a division of A.S. Turner & Sons, Inc.

The acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for two independently owned and operated funeral homes whose histories are rooted in compassionate service, community involvement, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Led by Owner Cy Hume and General Manager Tommy Wages, A.S. Turner & Sons has served families throughout Decatur and the greater Atlanta area for more than 120 years. The addition of Ford-Stewart Funeral Home reflects the company's long-term vision of thoughtfully expanding its reach while preserving the heritage and identity of the communities it serves.

Founded in August 1997 by Horace Ford and wife Linda Ford, Ford-Stewart Funeral Home has become one of the most respected funeral homes in South Metro Atlanta. Horace began his career in funeral service in 1963 and earned his funeral director's license in 1968. Over nearly three decades as owner and operator, he built a reputation for compassionate care and personalized service alongside his wife Linda, who sadly passed January 2018), son, Darren Ford, a licensed funeral director, and his daughter, Jennifer Ford, who oversees funeral assistance and administrative operations.

Recognizing the legacy the Ford family has built, A.S. Turner & Sons has chosen to retain the Ford name as the funeral home's new identity. Just as importantly, Horace, Darren, and Jennifer Ford will continue serving the families of Jonesboro, ensuring the trusted relationships they have developed over the years remain intact.

"Maintaining the Ford name was incredibly important to us," said Cy Hume, Owner of A.S. Turner & Sons. "Horace Ford has spent decades earning the trust of this community, and we wanted to honor that legacy. This is not about replacing what has been built—it is about investing in it, strengthening it, and ensuring it continues for generations to come."

Hume explained that he has envisioned expanding the A.S. Turner brand for several years, but only if the opportunity aligned with the company's values.

"When the opportunity arose with Ford-Stewart Funeral Home, it immediately felt like the right fit," Hume said. "Ford-Stewart already has an outstanding reputation and shares our commitment to serving families with dignity, integrity, and professionalism. We knew this wasn't simply an acquisition—it was a partnership built on common values."

As part of A.S. Turner & Sons, Ford Funeral Home & Cremation Services will continue providing the personalized, independently owned and operated experience that generations of Jonesboro families have come to expect, while gaining access to expanded resources, innovative service offerings, and additional expertise.

General Manager Tommy Wages emphasized that cultural compatibility was essential throughout the process.

"It was important to all of us that this be a good fit—not only for A.S. Turner & Sons, but for Ford-Stewart as well," Wages said. "Both organizations have earned the trust of their communities through compassionate service and ethical business practices. Bringing these two teams together allows us to build on those strengths while continuing to provide exceptional care to every family we serve."Hume echoed that sentiment, noting the shared philosophy between the two firms.

"We are not corporate, and we don't have that mentality," Hume said. "We see this merger as a definite win for both firms. Just as A.S. Turner & Sons has built a solid reputation in the communities we serve, Ford-Stewart has become a trusted and respected resource within theirs. Together, we can learn from one another and offer even more to the families who place their trust in us."

Both organizations remain committed to preserving the personal relationships and hometown values that have defined their success while expanding the services available to families throughout Metro Atlanta.

About A.S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home & Crematory/A.S. Turner & Sons Terramation Center

Founded in 1903, A.S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home & Crematory has served Decatur and the greater Atlanta community for more than 120 years. Family-owned and operated, the firm is recognized for providing compassionate funeral, cremation, and memorial services while continually investing in innovative options such as the addition of A.S. Turner & Sons Terramation Center that meet the evolving needs of families and the community.

About Ford Funeral Home & Cremation Services

Ford-Stewart Funeral Home has proudly served Jonesboro and the South Metro Atlanta community since 1997. Founded by Horace and Linda Ford, the funeral home has built a lasting reputation for compassionate care, personal attention, and dedicated service to generations of local families. As a division of A.S. Turner & Sons, Inc., the funeral home will remain committed to preserving the Ford family's legacy while expanding the services available to the community.

Media Contact:

Cy Hume

Owner

Tommy Wages

General Manager

A.S. Turner & Sons, Inc.

2773 N. Decatur Road

Decatur, GA 30033

Phone: (404) 292-1551

Website: www.asturner.com See less