Toale Brothers Funeral Home is proud to have served Sarasota and its citizens for three generations. Our story begins in 1912 when Mr. George Thacker established Sarasota's first funeral home. Mr. F. W. VanGilder eventually joined Mr. Thacker and the funeral home became known as Thacker VanGilder Funeral Home. The Funeral Home began operating out of our main location, 40 N. Orange Ave, in 1925. The Funeral Home was purchased by the Toale Family in 1948. Brothers George E. Toale and John (Jack) P. Toale along with their sister Catherine Toale Christian operated the family business. George and Jack Toale earned their degrees from the Cincinnati School of Embalming and Catherine was the first female licensed Embalmer in the State of Florida. George and Jack Toale soon expanded the funeral home to include two locations in Bradenton and three in Sarasota. Under the leadership of the second generation, including David and Curt Toale, the funeral home flourished, strengthening into what it is today.

It is notable that Kathleen Toale (David), was instrumental in establishing the Pre- Need program for Toale Brothers, which allows for consumers to plan ahead for a loved one or themselves. The Pre-Need program is still in operation today and provides a great sense of comfort to those families wishing to pre-plan final arrangements. Syndi Toale (Curt) has been involved in many community events and has helped with administrative duties of the Funeral Home. The third generation is comprised of Curt’s two daughters, Tiffany and Stephanie. The sisters are proud to carry on the locally owned and operated family business and are happy to have such a knowledgeable and dedicated staff that has made Toale Brothers thrive over the years. There are currently four Toale Brothers locations to best serve the families in our community; Bradenton Chapel, Colonial Chapel, Gulf Gate Chapel, and our newest location, Ewing Chapel on Venice Island. The Toale family is thankful to be serving your family in the community they know and love.