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About Us

Who we are

Since 1921, we have been honored to deliver healing experiences to the community

We exist to serve the unique needs of every family. Learn our story. Lean on us. And let our expertise lead you through the best experience possible.

What we stand for

Our promise

Today, tomorrow, and forever, our commitment to you stays the same.

Dignity

Every life is unique, and we promise to honor and respect each journey, crafting ceremonies that reflect each individual.

Guidance

Navigating grief can be overwhelming; we stand by you, providing direction and solace every step of the way.

Legacy

Beyond a service, we're committed to helping families create lasting tributes that transcend generations.

Our Story

Welcome to the visual history of Appalachian Funeral Home, a testament to dedication, family legacy, and community service. Established in the early 20th century, our journey unfolds through the lives of its founders, expansions, and generational leadership, embodying over a century of compassion and care in Johnson City.

The Founding Father

Maynard S. Cannon embarked on his funeral service career at Pouder Brothers in Johnson City. Licensed in Tennessee in 1915, he later joined McAmmon Funeral Home in Maryville.

Establishing Appalachian

By 1926, Maynard established the Appalachian Funeral Home at 305 N. Roan St., which saw expansion due to a thriving service, necessitating a move in 1937.

The Bowman Era Begins

Starting in 1939, Charles T. Bowman, marrying into the Cannon family, began a tenure that included presidency and overseeing major expansions, including the construction of a modern chapel in 1956.

Charles M. (Chuck) Bowman, continuing the family legacy, joined full-time in 1970, becoming President in 1982 and spearheading operations until 2005, then serving as Vice-President until 2016.

Fourth Generation Begins

From 2005 to 2019, Kevin Andrew Bowman, representing the fourth generation, served as President, continuing the commitment to community and service excellence.

Meet the team

Families know they can count on us to provide them the comfort they need when they need it most

David Mathes

David Mathes

Manager, Licensed Funeral Director and Licensed Embalmer

Kristen Bowman Stevens

Kristen Bowman Stevens

Licensed Funeral Director and Licensed Embalmer

Roni Long

Roni Long

Administrative Assistant (Non licensed)

We're here for you

Where the memory of your loved one can be uniquely celebrated

One-Stop Arrangements

We provide funeral & cemetery arrangements and strive to make each step of the process seamless and customized to your needs.

Personalized Services

Every loved one is unique. Celebrate them with ceremonies and tributes that are authentic to the life they lived.

24/7/365 Support Staff

You’re never alone. Our dedicated staff is always available to assist you with making arrangements and finding support.
Real stories from real people

“I want to thank david for the wonderful job he did on my dad last week and my name is Chris copas and my family also also said the same. So may God bless you all.and once again thank you”

Author: Chris Copas rated with 5 stars
We're hiring

Join us

Beyond the opportunity to truly make a difference, Appalachian Funeral Home & Cremation Services offers competitive pay, a healthy work-life balance, and many opportunities for growth.

Plan for the future, today

Pre-planning lets your loved ones focus on honoring life instead of hashing out details. Learn the choices you can make now, so a future funeral becomes more of a celebration than a burden.