When you're dealing with the loss of a loved one, the last thing you want is a confusing corporate runaround. Honestly, that’s why so many families in the Upstate end up looking at Dillard Funeral Home SC. It's one of those local staples that has been around forever—over 70 years, to be exact—and it has a reputation for being remarkably steady in a world that feels increasingly frantic.
Located right there at 2402 Gentry Memorial Highway in Pickens, it’s basically a landmark for anyone who has lived in the area for more than a few years. It sits on the same grounds as Hillcrest Memorial Park, which makes things a lot simpler for families because you aren’t driving across the county from the service to the burial site.
What You Actually Need to Know About the Setup
The first thing you’ll notice if you walk in is that it doesn’t feel like a cold, sterile institution. It’s got that classic South Carolina feel. They’ve got these large service rooms that can handle a massive crowd, which is kind of a big deal in the South where funerals can sometimes turn into unofficial town reunions.
People usually call them for three main things:
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- Traditional Burials: This is the whole nine yards—the viewing, the chapel service, and the procession to the grave.
- Cremation: They’ve become much more flexible with this lately. You can do a direct cremation or a full service followed by cremation.
- Pre-planning: This is where you sit down and pick everything out before you actually need it. It sounds morbid, but it’s actually a huge gift to your kids so they aren’t guessing what kind of casket you wanted while they’re grieving.
The Hillcrest Connection
It is worth mentioning that Dillard Memorial Funeral Home is closely tied to Hillcrest Memorial Park. This isn't just a side note; it's a major part of the draw. The cemetery has these really serene "gardens" and mausoleums.
If you’re looking for a specific vibe, they offer:
- In-ground burial: The traditional lawn style with flowers and trees.
- Mausoleums: For above-ground entombment, which some people prefer for the "indoors" feel.
- Cremation Niches: They even have glass-front niches where you can put little personal treasures next to the urn. It makes the memorial feel way more personal than just a name on a plaque.
Let’s Talk Money (The Honest Version)
Funerals are expensive. There’s no way around that. But Dillard is pretty transparent about their pricing, which is refreshing. Basic services of the director and staff usually hover around $3,800. If you add in a viewing (about $895) and the actual funeral ceremony (another $995), you’re starting to see how the bill grows.
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You also have to factor in the stuff people forget, like the hearse fee—usually around $395—and the cost of the casket or vault. It’s a lot to process. One thing that’s kinda cool is that they work with CareCredit, so if you don't have ten grand sitting in a savings account, there are financing options to help manage the hit.
The Staff and the "Vibe"
The team there, led by folks like Ricky Tomlinson and the rest of the crew, are known for being incredibly patient. They were even named the Pickens Chamber "Members of the Month" recently. That doesn't happen if you’re treating people like numbers.
They handle a lot of the digital heavy lifting now, too. They’ll set up an online memorial page where people can light "virtual candles" or post photos. It’s a nice touch for family members who live out of state and can’t make the drive to Pickens.
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Why Do People Choose Them?
Look, there are other funeral homes in the Upstate. You’ve got options in Easley and Greenville. But Dillard has this specific "small-town professional" thing going on.
They don't just disappear after the service is over, either. They actually offer a year of free daily grief support emails. It’s a small thing, but for someone sitting in a quiet house for the first time in 50 years, those little check-ins can mean the world.
Actionable Next Steps
If you are currently in a position where you need to make arrangements, or if you’re just trying to get your ducks in a row for the future, here is how you should actually handle it:
- Request a General Price List (GPL): Federal law says they have to give this to you. It lists every single charge so you aren't surprised by "hidden fees" later.
- Tour the Hillcrest Grounds: Don't just look at the building. Walk the cemetery. See if the atmosphere feels right to you.
- Check the Obituaries Online: If you’re looking for a specific service time, their website is updated daily. It’s much faster than waiting for the local paper.
- Ask About Veterans Benefits: If your loved one served, Dillard is very experienced in coordinating with the VA for honors and headstones.
When it comes down to it, Dillard Funeral Home SC is about as reliable as it gets in Pickens County. They’ve seen it all, and they know how to guide a family through the worst week of their lives without making it harder than it already is.