Our History
Our journey began with John T. Finch, who, in 1905, opened his doors as a funeral director in Grit, Virginia. With his vision and dedication, he established the foundation of what would become a family legacy. A few decades later, his son-in-law, Hubert J. Finch, joined the business, marking the start of the second generation.
Hubert, was a man of high standards and strong convictions. He expected nothing short of excellence from those around him. His leadership style instilled a deep sense of professionalism and unwavering commitment to quality that continues to define the business today. Under his guidance, the company moved to Altavista and grew its reputation for exceptional service and integrity.
Each generation has made unique contributions to the family legacy. During his time, Robert L. “Bob” Finch not only expanded the funeral home but also operated wholesale greenhouses, a retail florist, and an ambulance service. Known for his resourcefulness and determination, Bob was also well-loved for his quick wit and sense of humor. Whether lightening the mood during a challenging day or finding ways to connect with others, his humor left a lasting impression on both colleagues and families. By his side was his beloved and elegant wife, Pug, whose poise and steadfast support perfectly balanced Bob’s charismatic nature. He also had an unmatched knack for fixing things—a trait that would later be inherited by his grandson, Trey.
Building on Bob’s foundation, Robert L. “Rob” Finch, Jr. brought a fresh perspective and a forward-thinking approach to the business. Rob, alongside his wife Judy, brought strong business acumen and a clear vision to the family business. With high expectations and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Rob’s leadership could be challenging at times, but his dedication was always focused on enhancing the experience and affordability for the families they served. His commitment to excellence was matched by his loyalty to local families, organizations, and businesses. Rob understood the value of community partnerships and ensured that the business remained deeply rooted in serving and supporting the community it called home.
Today, Robert L. Finch, III, affectionately known as "Trey," proudly represents the fifth generation of service. Trey began working in the family business at the age of 16, he aspires to carry forward the best traits of the four generations before him—the strong convictions of his great-grandfather Hubert, the humor and resourcefulness of his grandfather Bob, and the visionary leadership and community loyalty of his father, Rob.
Trey brings a strong educational background to his role, having earned a bachelor’s degree in business management and marketing, as well as his funeral service degree and license. His combination of practical skills, deep knowledge, and heartfelt dedication has guided him in leading the business into a new era.
Trey and his wife, Brooke, reside in Altavista with their three daughters, Austen, Avery, and Audrey. Together, they embrace the hope that one day, a sixth generation of the Finch family will continue this cherished legacy.
At the heart of our business is a commitment to honoring each family’s unique story. When families come to us, they do so knowing that we will listen, understand, and work together to create a fitting, memorable, and affordable service for their loved ones. From traditional memorials to creative, personalized tributes, we provide a wide range of options tailored to meet present needs and offer peace of mind for the future.
As we celebrate 120 years of serving this community, our focus remains on providing value, compassion, and unparalleled care. This milestone is not only a testament to our family’s dedication but also to the trust and support of the families who have chosen us generation after generation.
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Robert L. Finch III President/Owner/CFSP/CCO - [email protected]
Trey represents the fifth generation of the Finch family to enter funeral service and proudly serves as President and Treasurer of the firm. He also serves as Vice President of the Virginia Funeral Directors Association and is an active member of the Blue Ridge Funeral Directors Association, Southside Funeral Directors Association, National Funeral Directors Association, and the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance.Trey earned his B.S. in Business Administration with concentrations in Marketing and Management from Ferrum College in 2010, after beginning his studies at the University of Charleston where he also played collegiate baseball. He later received his Associate Degree in Funeral Service from John Tyler Community College and became a licensed Funeral Service Licensee in 2013.A committed professional and community supporter, Trey served as Chairman of the Altavista Area Chamber of Commerce in 2018 and was honored that same year with the Community Builders Award by Masonic Campbell Lodge No. 316. He has also earned Certified Crematory Operator status and achieved national recognition in 2016 when he received the prestigious Lifetime Certified Funeral Service Practitioner (CFSP) designation—one of fewer than twenty-five funeral directors in Virginia to attain this honor.Trey is passionate about educating families and the community about funeral service. He frequently hosts preneed programs and other educational seminars at the funeral home and local churches. Dedicated to honoring tradition while embracing innovation, Trey strives to carry forward the finest qualities of the generations before him while continually seeking new ideas, technologies, and services that enrich the care offered to every family.Outside of his professional role, Trey enjoys sports and supporting his daughters’ activities—grateful that his athletic wife, Brooke, helps lead the way in coaching their girls. Trey is a member of New Prospect Baptist Church, and he and Brooke make their home in Altavista with their three daughters—Austen, Avery, and Audrey—and their dogs, Laney and Oliver.
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Jessie Hawkins Vice President/Office Manager/Corporate Secretary/CCO - [email protected]
Jessie joined the Finch & Finch staff in September of 2017 as the Office Manager, responsible for all business duties as well as support for our funeral service licensees and handles our After Care programming. She is a member of the Altavista Rotary Club and enjoys volunteering in the community. She graduated from Altavista High School in 2014. Jessie was previously employed at Mid Atlantic Printers Ltd. for five years in the Accounting Department. She is currently enrolled at Brightpoint Community College to earn a degree in Funeral Service. She enjoys traveling and spending time with her family and friends. Jessie and her husband, Jacob and their two sons reside in Gretna.
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Jessi Simpson Funeral Service Licensee
Jessi joined the staff of Finch & Finch in January 2020. She is a graduate of Altavista High School and completed her Associate’s Degree in Funeral Service at Brightpoint Community College in December 2024. In April 2025, she earned her Virginia Funeral Service License.Jessi has one daughter, Claire, and they reside in Altavista along with their feline companion, Blondie. She is an active member of Solid Rock Baptist Church and enjoys spending time with her family.
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Oliver Pax Finch Grief Therapy Dog
Oliver came to us from Buttercup Doodles Va, a home-based kennel-free breeder in Altavista. He completed his training at The K9 Academy also right here in Altavista. In his short time, he is already stealing the hearts of everyone he encounters. His puppy energy has brought so much joy to the funeral home and those who have been privileged to meet him. Oliver is available to all families, and he can be found sniffing and exploring places he is not supposed to be. He lives with Trey and his family in Altavista.
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Jerry Barnard Funeral Service Associate
Jerry joined the staff of Finch & Finch in July of 2019. He was a long time employee of The Lane Company and he retired from Teva Pharmaceuticals. Jerry and his wife Penny have one son, Jake and they reside in Hurt with their Beagle Antonio and feline friend, Miss Kitty. Since retirement Jerry enjoys golfing, yard work, attending baseball games and socializing with friends.
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Doris Cousin Funeral Service Associate
Dee joined the staff of Finch & Finch in July of 2018, she currently works at the Altavista YMCA as a front desk coordinator. She is a member of Tree of Life Ministries, Lynchburg. In her free time she enjoys taking legal classes and enjoying the great outdoors. Dee is a retired military vet of 26 years. She resides in Lynch Station, Dee has one daughter and two grandchildren.
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Brian Davis Funeral Service Associate
Brian joined the staff of Finch & Finch in November of 2020. He is a retired deputy sheriff who served in law enforcement for 26 years. Brian is a veteran of the United States Army. He resides in Altavista with his wife, Yong. Their son, James, is a vice president at one of the nation’s leading financial consulting firms in Washington, D.C. Brian has a master's degree in history from Liberty University. He attends Blue Ridge Community Church. Brian is active with the American Legion Post 16 and Friends of New London. He is a curriculum development specialist for Liberty University Online Academy.
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Terri Dews Funeral Service Associate
Terri joined the staff of Finch & Finch in May of 2018. She is an Altavista native who has held several positions at Abbott Nutrition, owned two businesses in Altavista: River's Bend Farm boarding horses and Airabella Flowers & Gifts. She currently is a semi-retired professional entrepreneur, holding several different part-time jobs in the community. Terri has been a board member of Avoca Museum & Historical Society for three years. Terri is married to Phil Dews and has two children, Trae & Elliott. She loves spending time with her family, animals, meeting & helping people and traveling.
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Dianne Fifer Funeral Service Associate
Dianne joined the staff of Finch & Finch in February of 2013. She is the owner of Dianne’s Hair Creations and is a member of the Altavista Area YMCA, and the fill-in pianist for numerous churches in the area. Dianne is a member of Bethel Pentecostal Holiness Church. She is married to Danny Fifer, owner of Danny's Rollback. Dianne has two children, Lauren and Jake; and four grandchildren, Karsyn, Corbin, Eloise and Lawson.
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Judy Finch Funeral Service Associate
Judy is the wife of Rob Finch and the mother of Trey. Originally from Pennsylvania and Georgia, she has been a part of the Altavista community since 1984, when she and Rob married. A 1983 graduate of Lynchburg College, with a B. S. degree in Medical Technology, she comes to the funeral home on a part time basis to assist with organizing of special events. Her employment background includes work in medical settings as a lab tech, working with Altavista On Track (a Virginia Main Street Community program) in many different capacities, health coaching and teaching yoga. Judy enjoys spending time with her family, Trey, his wife Brooke and granddaughters, Austen and Avery, and son Jackson, who lives in North Carolina. She is a member of Lane Memorial United Methodist Church.
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Robert L. Finch Jr. Chairman Emeritus
Representing the fourth generation of the Finch family, Rob retired in March of 2023. He attended Lynchburg College, graduated with a B.S. Degree in 1980 from Elon University, received an Associate Degree from Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service in Atlanta, Georgia in 1992, and was licensed as a Funeral Service Licensee in that same year. Rob earned his Certified Funeral Service Practitioner in 2004 from the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice and has completed the annual requirements for this nationally recognized award each year since. There are less than forty funeral directors in Virginia that have completed and received this certification.Rob is a member of the National Funeral Directors Association, Virginia Funeral Directors Association (VFDA), where he has served many years on the Board of Directors and as President of VFDA in 2014-15. Rob was named VFDA Outstanding Member of the Year in 2008 and is a two time recipient of the Funeral Director of the Year awarded by the VFDA in 2003 and 2009.Rob is dedicated to community activities and is an active board member of the First National Bank of Altavista and the Citizens for Altavista Baseball. He is a former member and Past President of the Lions Club of Altavista, a past board member of the Greater Lynchburg Community Trust, Altavista Vocational Advisory Council, Altavista Area YMCA, and the Altavista Chamber of Commerce. In his spare time, he enjoys golf, time with his family at the lake, and is a passionate baseball fan.Rob and his wife, Judy have two sons, Jackson of Edenton, North Carolina and Trey and his wife, Brooke of Altavista; and three granddaughters, Austen Rylie, Avery Camryn and Audrey Anne Finch. They are members of Lane Memorial United Methodist Church in Altavista.
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Maggie Mae Finch Grief Therapy Dog
Magnolia Mae “Maggie” Finch was born in Ringgold, Virginia on November 21, 2017. Maggie, as we affectionately call her, is a Sheepadoodle, which is a cross between an Old English Sheepdog and a Standard Poodle. She is hypo-allergenic and non-shedding, which is very helpful in the world of animal therapy. She was chosen out of a litter of eleven puppies to be the comfort dog for Finch & Finch Funeral & Cremation Service. Maggie began her basic obedience training at a local facility when she was just four months old and recently completed her Alliance of Therapy Dogs Certification.Maggie retired in March of 2023 alongside Rob, with whom she resides. Although she may seldom come to the funeral home to visit, her reputation still lives large in the hearts of those in our communities.
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Terry Finch Funeral Service Associate
Terry joined the Finch & Finch staff in June of 2015 after retiring from the Campbell County School System where he taught history for many years at Altavista High School. During his tenure at Altavista High School he was involved with the Hi-Y Club, various school activities, and athletics. He and his wife Bonnie reside in Lynch Station and are members of First Baptist Church in Altavista. They have two daughters, Jessica and Annalee and one grandson, Michael.
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Sammy Hensley Funeral Service Associate
Sammy joined the staff of Finch & Finch in April of 2017. He retired after thirty-five years as a Process Engineer with Areva in Lynchburg and is a member of The Church of God, Leesville Road where he teaches Sunday School. In his spare time, Sammy enjoys spending time with his family and friends, hunting, fishing, old cars, and singing and playing Bluegrass and Gospel music. He and his wife, Vera have two children and five grandchildren.
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Ed Kizer Funeral Service Associate
Ed joined the staff of Finch & Finch in November of 2021. He is a retired postal letter carrier and United States Air Force Veteran. He and his wife, Patsy reside in Hurt, they have three children, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling the world and camping. He is a member of First Pentecostal Holiness Church in Altavista.
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Robbie Lindsey Funeral Service Associate
Robbie Lindsey joined the staff of Finch & Finch in April of 2022. He is a member of Bethel Pentecostal Holiness Church and he and his wife, Cindy reside in Gladys.
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Jessica Little Funeral Service Associate
Jessica joined the staff of Finch & Finch in July of 2019. She is a seven year veteran of the U.S. Army. She is currently a student at the University of Lynchburg studying Management and Human Resources. In her spare time Jessica enjoys the outdoors and spending time with her family. Jessica is a member of First Baptist Church of Altavista. She resides in Lynch Station with her husband, Hank and children, Michael and Evelyn.
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Matt Lucado Funeral Service Associate
Matt has been associated with Finch & Finch since 2008 and is the owner of M&M cleaners three locations, Forest Road, 12th Street, Lynchburg and Main Street, Altavista. He enjoys working on Mustangs and drag racing. Matt resides in Hurt with his wife Sharon.
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Mike Lucado Funeral Service Licensee
Mike received his degree from Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science in Cincinnati, Ohio, was licensed in Virginia in 1971, and in North Carolina in 1994. Mike knows this community well, and is committed to the many families whose lives are centered here.Mike was born and raised in Appomattox and resides in Altavista with his wife, Susie. They have six children, thirteen grandchildren, and are members of Hyland Heights Baptist Church. In his spare time, he volunteers at the Hyland Heights food pantry and also works for Rhino Sports Security.
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Zachary McGill Funeral Service Associate
Zachary joined the staff of Finch & Finch in May of 2018; he is a graduate of Longwood University with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. He currently works for First National Bank as a Retail Business Development Specialist. Zachary loves giving back to his community and in his spare time enjoys being with family and friends.
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Terry Mitchell Funeral Service Associate
Terry joined Finch & Finch in January of 2015. She was previously employed as a CMA & RT at Staunton River Family Physicians and is the current owner of Body & Sole Spa located in Lynch Station. Terry is a member of Lynch Station Baptist Church where she serves as the pianist and on the Youth Board. During her spare time, she enjoys traveling, gardening, kayaking, riding ATV’s, and spending time with her family and friends. Terry is a lifelong resident of the area.
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William Myers Funeral Service Associate
Billy has been associated with Finch & Finch since 2009 and was an employee of Burlington Industries, Klopman Division for 40 years. He is a longtime member of Monte Vista Baptist Church and Gideons International. He enjoys gardening, farming, hunting, fishing, and most of all serving his church and the Gideons. Billy spends time ministering at Green Rock Prison with Kiros prison ministries. He and his wife Peggy reside in Hurt and have been married for 57 years. They have two sons, Keith and Michael Myers; a daughter, Wendy M. Payne; four grandchildren, Sydney, Raegan, Avery, and Caroline; and one great-grandson, Ryker.
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Jerry Rowland Funeral Service Associate
Jerry served our community as a member of the Altavista Police Department for 28 years. He is a member of the Altavista Church of Christ and has three children, seven grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. Jerry resides in Altavista.
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Dorinda Scruggs Funeral Service Associate
Dorinda joined the staff of Finch & Finch in April of 2017. She was formerly an Activity Director with Autumn Care Nursing and Rehabilitation and is a member of First Pentecostal Holiness Church, Altavista. She and her husband, Howard reside in Hurt and have two children and two grandchildren.
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Bonnie Walker Funeral Service Associate
Bonnie has served with Finch & Finch since 1997. She is an employee of Campbell County Schools and a member of Wesleybury United Methodist Church. Bonnie and her son, Jeb reside in Gladys.
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Christopher Wingfield Funeral Service Associate
Chris joined the staff of Finch & Finch in January of 2022. He was born and raised in Richmond, but is a transplant to Altavista; where he and his family moved back in 2013. He has a passion for meeting, connecting, and helping others. Chris has two French bulldogs named Blake and Krystal. On his time off he enjoys spending time with his friends and family, reading good books, and golfing.
