Our Story
Learn our story, from the beginning and into the future.
Ever since we opened our gates 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.
Why Us?
In a nutshell? Experience, professionalism, compassion, and empathy.
We've learned a lot over many years. Like how to present options without overwhelming. And how to meet the needs of many caring parties. People come to us in difficult times, and we respond kindness, calmness and expertise. Our goal is to create a beautiful occasion 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.
1912
George Thacker establishes Sarasota's first funeral home
1925
Funeral Home began operating out of our main location, 40 N. Orange Ave.
1948
Brothers George and John (Jack) Toale purchased the funeral home
Toale Brothers Funeral Home is proud to have served Sarasota and its citizens for three generations. Our story begins in 1912 when Mr. George Thacker established Sarasota's first funeral home. Mr. F. W. VanGilder eventually joined Mr. Thacker and the funeral home became known as Thacker VanGilder Funeral Home. The Funeral Home began operating out of our main location, 40 N. Orange Ave, in 1925. The Funeral Home was purchased by the Toale Family in 1948. Brothers George E. Toale and John (Jack) P. Toale along with their sister Catherine Toale Christian operated the family business. George and Jack Toale earned their degrees from the Cincinnati School of Embalming and Catherine was the first female licensed Embalmer in the State of Florida. George and Jack Toale soon expanded the funeral home to include two locations in Bradenton and three in Sarasota. Under the
leadership of the second generation, including David and Curt Toale, the
funeral home flourished, strengthening into what it is today. It is notable that Kathleen Toale (David), was instrumental in establishing the Pre- Need program for Toale Brothers, which allows for consumers to plan ahead for a loved one or themselves. The Pre-Need program is still in operation today and provides a great sense of comfort to those families wishing to pre-plan final arrangements. Syndi Toale (Curt) has been involved in many community events and has helped with administrative duties of the Funeral Home. The third
generation is comprised of Curt’s two daughters, Tiffany and Stephanie. The sisters are proud
to carry on the locally owned and operated family business and are happy to
have such a knowledgeable and dedicated staff that has made Toale Brothers
thrive over the years. There are currently three Toale Brothers locations to best serve the families in our community; Bradenton Chapel, Colonial Chapel and Ewing Chapel on Venice Island. The Toale family is thankful to be serving your family in the community they know and love.
Explore Our Locations
See where we are and find the place that best meet your needs.
Toale Brothers Funeral Home & Crematory - Colonial Chapel
Toale Brothers Funeral Home & Crematory - Ewing Chapel
Toale Brothers Funeral Home & Crematory - Bradenton Chapel
Toale Brothers Funeral Home & Crematory - Pre Arrangement Center