Our Location In Pottsville, PA
At the James E. Humphrey Funeral Home, our facility provides a dignified and meaningful setting designed to meet your family’s wishes with comfort and care.
Our building is truly unique. Constructed in 1918 as a Georgian-style residence for prominent lumber yard owner Harry F. Wertley, the home reflects the craftsmanship and character of a bygone era. Mr. Wertley’s lumber yard was located near what is now Market Square Apartments, just around the corner from our funeral home.
The home showcases beautiful original oak doors, intricate wood moldings, a handcrafted staircase, and a stately fireplace. Originally, it featured six bedrooms, spacious living and dining rooms separated by large oak pocket doors, an enclosed porch, a second-floor sunroom, and expansive grounds — a grand and elegant family residence.
After Mr. Wertley’s passing on November 24, 1930, his widow, Sarah, continued living in the home until her death on May 27, 1941. In keeping with the customs of that era, both of their funerals were held in the residence — becoming, quite fittingly, the first two funerals ever conducted in the home before it officially became a funeral establishment.
On October 31, 1942, St. Clair funeral director Richard W. Morgan purchased the property from the Wertley family and converted it into a funeral home. The first floor was adapted for funeral service use, including the addition of a preparation room where the enclosed porch had been located, along with modifications to the detached garage. The second floor became living quarters for the Morgan family, with the former sun porch transformed into a living room and two bedrooms converted into a kitchen and dining area. The Morgan family operated the funeral home until Mr. Morgan’s passing on September 17, 1986.
On November 11, 1986, our family purchased the building and began extensive renovations before officially opening our doors on February 3, 1987. Over the past 35+ years, we have continued to enhance the facility with thoughtful updates, modern amenities, and expanded parking to better accommodate the families we serve.

Today, we are proud to maintain the home’s historic charm while offering a comfortable, welcoming, and fully handicap-accessible environment. Our goal has always been to preserve its warmth and character — ensuring families feel supported in a setting that feels like home.
