For over a century, Coulter-Garrison Funeral Home in Dayton, Tennessee, has compassionately served families throughout Rhea County and the surrounding areas. Its legacy of care and dedication began with Robert Jerome (R.J.) Coulter, who was born in Coulterville—just across the line in Hamilton County, Tennessee. Originally starting his career in the furniture business, R.J. soon felt a deeper calling to support families during their most difficult times. He became a licensed funeral director and embalmer and eventually opened his own funeral home in Dayton.

In 1922, R.J. expanded his vision by establishing a funeral home in Chattanooga, which quickly grew into one of the city’s most respected and trusted providers. Just three years later, on July 26, 1925, his reputation for professionalism and compassionate service earned him the honor of being selected as the funeral director for William Jennings Bryan—the famed lawyer, orator, and three-time presidential candidate—who passed away in Dayton shortly after the historic Scopes Trial.

Throughout the decades, R.J. Coulter’s unwavering commitment to excellence laid the foundation for what would become one of the region’s longest-serving funeral homes. 

 Under the care and leadership of a long family heritage, Barbara Garrison and Jane Garrison Murphy, continue to uphold the values and compassionate service to the families in our community.