Curran O’Brien steps in, reopens former Ryder Funeral Home

Date: 2/12/2015

SOUTH HADLEY – After more than 50 years in business, The Ryder Funeral Home was shut down last May after investigators uncovered several procedural and financial violations on the part of former owner William Ryder.

Curran O’Brien, another longtime family business, has stepped in to reopen the 33 Lamb St. establishment.

Joe Curran and T.J. O’Brien bring many years of experience in the funeral business to the new venture in South Hadley. They are co-owners of the Curran-Jones Funeral Home in West Springfield, a business that dates back to the 1930s. Curran-Jones also has a location in Agawam.

When they embarked on this venture, Curran and O’Brien were both aware of the potential for negative feedback, given the well-publicized controversy surrounding the closing of the Ryder Funeral Home. Instead, they have found the community of South Hadley very welcoming.

“Before the unfortunate circumstances at the end, you have to remember that this was a beloved institution for more than 50 years,” Curran said. “It’s a beautiful home and we’re hearing from a lot of people who are happy to see the place being operated properly again.”

O’Brien agreed. “South Hadley is a fantastic, close-knit community,” he said. “My family and I are in the process of moving to town and we’re committed to providing our neighbors here with comfort and services in their time of need.”

Curran O’Brien recently hosted their first funeral at the newly reopened facility and encourage interested parties to call them at 538-4642 with any questions about the new ownership or to make arrangements for their loved ones.