Honestly, walking into a funeral home isn't exactly on anyone’s "fun Saturday afternoon" list. But if you’ve lived around Bucks County for a while, you know the corner of Washington Avenue in Newtown. The building has that classic, local feel—the kind of place that just looks like it belongs in a historic borough. Swartz Givnish Funeral Home Newtown PA has been sitting there at 323 Washington Ave for a long time, and while most people drive past it every day, they usually don't think about what happens inside until they absolutely have to.
When that time comes, the stress is usually pretty high. You're dealing with grief, sure, but also a mountain of paperwork and about a thousand decisions you never wanted to make. Most people think a funeral home is just a place for caskets and quiet music. That's actually a bit of a misconception. In reality, modern funeral care—especially under the "Life Celebration" banner that the Givnish family uses—is a lot more like event planning mixed with deep emotional support.
The History Behind the Name
The name itself tells a story of local legacies merging. The Givnish family has been in the funeral business since 1928, starting out way back at 5th and Lindley in Philadelphia. Over decades, they expanded across the bridge into New Jersey and up through the Philly suburbs.
The Newtown location, specifically known as Swartz Givnish Funeral Home Newtown PA, represents a partnership between established traditions. You've got names like Thomas J. Givnish and Michael J. Givnish—third-generation directors—who have kept the family business running while so many other local homes have been bought out by massive, faceless corporations. There’s something to be said for a place where the people answering the phone actually live in the community and know the local parishes, like St. Andrew’s or the local Quaker meetings.
What Actually Happens at Swartz Givnish?
If you’re expecting a dark, gloomy atmosphere, you might be surprised. They lean heavily into the "Life Celebration" concept. Basically, instead of just focusing on the death, they try to focus on how the person lived.
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It’s not just about the "standard" service anymore. I've seen them set up displays that look more like a museum exhibit of someone's life than a wake. If the person loved golf, there might be clubs and turf. If they were a baker, the place might actually smell like cookies. It sounds a bit weird if you’re used to old-school traditions, but it really helps families feel like they’re doing something personal rather than just following a script.
Services They Handle Regularly:
- Traditional Burials: The full-service experience with viewings and graveside ceremonies.
- Cremation with a Twist: They don't just "do" cremation; they offer memorial services where the urn is present, or even viewings before the cremation happens.
- Green Burials: For the eco-conscious crowd in Bucks County who want a minimal environmental footprint.
- Veteran Honors: They are particularly sharp about coordinating with the Washington Crossing National Cemetery, which is just a short drive away.
The Financial Side (The Part Nobody Likes to Discuss)
Let’s be real: Funerals are expensive. One thing people often get wrong about Swartz Givnish Funeral Home Newtown PA is thinking they only have one "price." They actually offer a range of payment options because they know not everyone has $10,000 sitting in a savings account for an emergency.
They work with something called "Family Shield Credit," which basically allows families to finance the costs over up to 60 months. They also handle life insurance assignments, where the insurance company pays the funeral home directly so the family doesn't have to front the cash. It’s a logistical headache they take off your plate.
Why Newtown Families Choose Them
Newtown is a tight-knit place. People talk. The reputation of Swartz Givnish usually comes down to the staff—people like Maureen Whirledge, a fourth-generation director. There’s a level of "neighborhood" knowledge there. They know the traffic patterns on State Street. They know the local florists. They know which cemeteries require specific types of vaults.
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Real Talk About Pre-Planning
Most people avoid pre-planning because it feels "creepy" or like they're tempting fate. But honestly? It’s probably the most selfless thing you can do for your kids or spouse.
When you pre-plan at Swartz Givnish, you can actually lock in today’s prices. Given how inflation is hitting everything from eggs to lumber, locking in a price for a service that might not happen for 20 years is a massive financial win. Plus, it stops your family from arguing over whether you wanted "Wind Beneath My Wings" or "Highway to Hell" at the service. You’ve already made the call.
The Role of the Funeral Director Today
A lot of people think a funeral director just moves bodies and wears a suit. At a place like Swartz Givnish, they’re basically part therapist, part lawyer, and part event coordinator.
They handle the death certificates, which you’ll need for everything from closing bank accounts to stopping a Netflix subscription. They coordinate with the police for funeral processions through Newtown’s narrow streets. They even help with "GriefShare" groups and local support resources. It’s a lot more than just the day of the service.
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Important Things to Know if You’re Visiting
If you're heading there for a service, parking in Newtown can sometimes be a bit of a squeeze, though they have their own lot.
- Location: 323 Washington Ave, Newtown, PA 18940.
- Atmosphere: It’s a historic building, so it feels warm and lived-in, not like a sterile hospital.
- Etiquette: Don't feel like you have to wear jet black. Many families now request "celebration" colors.
Actionable Steps for Families
If you’re currently facing a loss or just trying to be responsible and get your affairs in order, don't just Google and hope for the best.
- Call and ask for a General Price List (GPL): Federal law requires them to give this to you. It breaks down every single cost so there are no surprises.
- Take a tour: You don't need a death in the family to walk inside. Ask to see the "Life Celebration" setups.
- Check your insurance: See if your policy allows for direct assignment to a funeral home.
- Write down your "Must-Haves": Even if you don't fully pre-pay, tell your family if you want a specific song or a specific cemetery.
Dealing with Swartz Givnish Funeral Home Newtown PA is about making a hard time slightly less chaotic. Whether it's a traditional Catholic Mass or a backyard-style memorial with photos and stories, the goal is the same: getting through the day with your dignity—and your sanity—intact.
Next Steps:
If you need immediate assistance or are looking to start the pre-planning process, you should contact the home directly to request their Life Celebration Home Family Guide. This workbook helps you document your story and preferences before you ever sit down for a formal meeting.