The O’Riley-Branson Difference
We provide individualized funeral services designed to meet the needs of each family.
The History of O'Riley - Branson Funeral Service & Crematory
We at O’Riley – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory have been proudly serving families with both dignity and compassion since 1971. Our main objective is to carry out your wishes down to the smallest detail, so that you may celebrate the life and memory of your loved one. We understand the many different emotions that accompany the loss of someone close to you, having dealt with the loss of family and friends ourselves. We are dedicated to making your arrangements with the same respect as we would our own.
Founded in 1971 as Daniel F. O’Riley Funeral Home, O’Riley – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory has remained a family-owned business dedicated to serving the community with compassionate care.
Daniel F. O’Riley, raised in a faith-centered Illinois family, pursued mortuary science before serving in the U.S. Army. After returning to Indiana, he worked in funeral service and education before realizing his dream of opening his own funeral home. With support from his wife, Denni, and his brothers, Dan opened the funeral home in 1971, where he served as director and Denni as office manager.
Over the years, family remained central to O’Riley, with son-in-law Shawn Gudat joining in 1981. After Denni’s passing that same year, other family members stepped in to help. Dan remained involved until his passing in 2012. In 2017, Chris and Mary Beth Branson, owners of Carlisle-Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, acquired the funeral home, sharing the O’Riley family’s commitment to faith and service. They modernized the facility and enhanced offerings while preserving its welcoming, family-centered atmosphere.
Today, Shawn and Chris continue to serve families with dedication, upholding the legacy that began with Dan O’Riley more than 50 years ago.
Wonderful wonderful! The staff are truly amazing people & are so helpful! They really helped my family in every aspect! I am extremely grateful of how they cared for my son & their ability to go above & beyond even after their services were completed 🙏🏼❤️