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About Us

Who we are

Celebrating life since 1820

As a proud member of the Seaford community since 1820, we're honored to help families celebrate their loved ones. We pledge to ensure that every funeral and memorial service is deeply personal, fostering healing and remembrance.

What we stand for

Our promise

Today, tomorrow, and forever, our commitment to you stays the same.

Dignity

Every life is unique, and we promise to honor and respect each journey, crafting ceremonies that reflect each individual.

Guidance

Navigating grief can be overwhelming; we stand by you, providing direction and solace every step of the way.

Legacy

Beyond a service, we're committed to helping families create lasting tributes that transcend generations.

Our story

Watson-Yates funeral home has a long standing tradition in the Seaford area since 1820, making it possibly the oldest established funeral home in the State of Delaware and one  still in business.  

Originally known as “The House of Watson”, the funeral home began in the Seaford area in 1820 by Paynter Watson. As the firm grew the need for a new location was foreseen and in 1858 operations were moved into  the current location of 609 East King Street.  Through the years the business continued under the direction of several Watson heirs, beginning with Henry H. Watson (son of Paynter), his son Medford L. Watson, Sr.; then his two sons, Medford L. Watson, Jr. (Paynter) and Pasher Watson, then business associate and licensed funeral director Gary Yates. 

Pictured:Top Left: Henry Watson

Top Right: Medford L. Watson, Sr.

Lower Left: Paynter Watson

Lower Right: Pasher Watson

300K+

Legacies Honored

0

Years in Business

5M+

Moments Remembered

Meet the team

Our incredible staff

Helping families create lasting legacies is more than a job — it's our calling. We are here to support you in any way we can and will offer you the full attention, knowledge, and compassion you need.

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Our Location

A place of healing

We welcome you to explore the Watson-Yates Funeral Home & Crematorium facilities, and invite you to discover a comforting and peaceful place to honor your loved one.

We're here for you

We exist to serve the unique needs of every family

Seamless Arrangements

We'll help you with everything you need with a simple step-by-step process for all of your funeral, cremation and cemetery plans.

Unique Funerals and Tributes

Every individual is unique. Which is why we offer fully customizable memorial services designed just for your family.

Around the Clock Support

We're here to answer any questions and help in any way we can – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Associations & Awards

Honoring excellence

We’re honored to be recognized for our dedication to excellence and genuine care. Explore the esteemed associations we're a part of, and the awards that celebrate our commitment to the communities we serve.

Our Awards

Watson-Yates is honored as one of the Best Places to Work in 2023.

We're hiring

Beyond the opportunity to truly make a difference, Watson-Yates Funeral Home & Crematorium offers competitive pay, a healthy work-life balance, and many opportunities for growth.

Plan Ahead

Plan for the future, today

Pre-planning lets your loved ones focus on honoring life instead of hashing out details. Learn the choices you can make now, so a future funeral becomes more of a celebration than a burden.