Funeral Home
Trusted Funeral Care for Ashland, OH Families
Ashland families facing the loss of a loved one deserve a funeral home that feels personal, not transactional. Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory has served families throughout north-central Ohio since 1895, and while our roots are in Shelby, our doors are open to Ashland residents who want the same compassionate, unhurried care we've offered for generations.
As a sixth-generation, family-owned funeral home led by Carli (Fichter) Bailey, we understand that Ashland is a community with its own identity, home to Ashland University, deep-rooted local traditions, and families who value being treated as neighbors rather than customers. That's exactly how we approach every family who calls on us, whether they live in Shelby or make the short drive from Ashland.
How We Support Ashland Families
We've structured our services so that every family can build a farewell that fits their loved one, their budget, and their beliefs, not a one-size-fits-all package.
Traditional Funeral Services
From visitation through the funeral service and final committal, we manage the coordination so your family can focus on being present with one another. We're familiar with churches and cemeteries throughout Ashland County and can coordinate services there directly.
Cremation Services
Our funeral home operates an on-site crematory, the only one between Mansfield and Norwalk, giving Ashland families a nearby option with full oversight of their loved one's care from start to finish.
Burial Services
For families choosing burial, we assist with cemetery arrangements, casket and vault selection, and the logistics of a graveside service, always at a pace that respects your family's timeline.
Tailored Farewells
Some Ashland families want something less traditional, a celebration built around a loved one's passions, faith, or community ties. We work closely with families to shape a service that feels authentic rather than generic.
Veteran Services
We assist Ashland's veteran families with military honors, flag presentation, and coordination of VA burial benefits.

Advance Planning
Many families in Ashland choose to document their wishes ahead of time. We offer preplanning consultations by phone or in person, so you're never rushed into decisions during a difficult moment.
The Drive From Ashland to Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory
Our funeral home is located at 33 N Gamble St, Shelby, OH 44875. From Ashland, most families reach us in about 30 minutes by taking SR 39 West, a straightforward drive that avoids highway congestion. Whether you're coming from near Ashland University's campus or the neighborhoods around Center Street, the route is simple even under stressful circumstances.
Our team is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For immediate needs,
call (419) 342-6356 and we'll help you take the next step right away.
A Neighbor to the Ashland Community
Ashland carries a distinct identity within north-central Ohio, shaped by Ashland University, the historic homes along Center Street, and a manufacturing heritage that once earned the city the nickname "the balloon capital of the world." It's a community that values education, faith, and long memory, qualities we recognize because they mirror our own family's history of service.
Though our funeral home is based in Shelby, many of the families we've served over the decades have ties to Ashland, whether through work, church, or family connections that stretch across county lines. We consider it an honor whenever an Ashland family chooses to place their trust in us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you serve families who live in Ashland, not just Shelby?
Yes. We regularly serve families throughout Ashland County and the surrounding region, and we can coordinate services at local churches or cemeteries near Ashland.
How long does it take to get from Ashland to your funeral home?
The drive is approximately 25 miles and takes about 30 minutes via SR 39 West.
Can Ashland families request a service outside your Shelby facility?
In many cases, yes. We're happy to discuss holding a visitation or service at a location closer to Ashland if that better suits your family.
What if I want to preplan my funeral before I need these services?
We welcome that. Our preplanning consultations can be done by phone or scheduled in person, giving Ashland families the flexibility to plan without an immediate trip to Shelby.
Who do I contact for immediate assistance from Ashland?
Call us anytime at (419) 342-6356. Our staff is available 24/7 and will guide you through arrangements and transportation right away.
