Royal Funeral Home owners Karen and David Smith

The weeklong activities will include cultural events inspired by a new painting by artist John Green, unveiling and pilgrimage at historic Glenwood Cemetery, a masquerade ball and fundraising gala, a prayer and dedication service, and jubilee gospel celebration.

Members of the Royal Funeral Home are looking forward to celebrating this anniversary occasion with the many families, churches and community organizations that have supported them throughout the years.

The anniversary also provides the opportunity for Royal to partner with the United Way of Madison County in honoring two outstanding community organizations by donating all proceeds from the events to Harris Home for Children and the National Children’s Advocacy Center.

“It gives us great pleasure to promote two initiatives of the United Way of Madison County—helping children and youth succeed and strengthening and supporting families by choosing the two beneficiary charities,” said Karen Jones Smith and David Smith, owners of Royal Funeral Home. “Throughout our 90 years in business, Royal has always believed in community reinvestment, so it is only natural that we continue this legacy of giving in celebration of this momentous occasion.”

Royal Funeral Home is the oldest African-American owned business in Huntsville. Established in 1918 by Charles K. Binford, Royal is now owned by David and Karen Jones-Smith, who are the third generation in their family to purchase, own and operate the business. Karen’s parents, James A and Barbara Hundley Jones, and her grandparents, Lawrence B. and Amanda Rice Hundley, make this the 60-second year of ownership by the family.

For more information, please contact Kim Long at (256) 534-8481 or ktravL411@aol.com.