Billy Bernhardt
Owner/Operator/Funeral Director/Embalmer
Mr. Billy Bernhardt is the esteemed owner and operator of Bernhardt Funeral Home, one of the most respected funeral establishments in North Georgia. From an early age, Mr. Bernhardt displayed a unique interest in funeral service. As a child, he made paper flowers for cemeteries and attended funerals in his community—even when he did not know the deceased—closely observing the work of funeral directors. Although some, including his father, considered this interest unusual, Mr. Bernhardt remained steadfast in his calling.
A native of Gilmer County, Mr. Bernhardt has served his community in multiple capacities. In addition to his longstanding leadership at Bernhardt Funeral Home, he served as the Coroner of Gilmer County for 22 years and as Sheriff for 14 years. His decades of commitment to public service were honored when he received a 50-year award from the Georgia Funeral Directors Association. He is also a distinguished member of the Academy of Graduate Embalmers of Georgia and the National Funeral Directors Association.
Mr. Bernhardt’s professional journey formally began when he worked at Hefner's Funeral Home prior to attending mortuary school. He earned his degree in 1961 from John A. Gupton Mortuary School in Nashville, Tennessee. Upon his return to Ellijay, he discovered that Hefner’s had been sold and the building was vacant—an opportunity he viewed as providential. In 1962, he opened Bernhardt Funeral Home in that very building, equipping it with a black Cadillac hearse and even an ambulance service. In 1973, he moved the business across the road to a larger facility with improved amenities and more parking.
In 1996, Mr. Bernhardt founded Yukon Cemetery to provide a dignified and well-maintained final resting place for community members. He also opened a flower shop, personally crafting funeral arrangements with unmatched care and attention to detail—often working late into the night to serve families in need.
Beyond his work in funeral services, Mr. Bernhardt has played a vital role in Gilmer County. Encouraged by community support, he ran for coroner and was appointed Sheriff of Gilmer County by Governor Frank Joe Harris. After completing his term, he successfully ran for re-election, defeating all five of his opponents.
Mr. Bernhardt is devoted to his family. He is married to the former Sandra Reece and is the proud father of three children: Jenny (Doug) Harrison, Martha (Rev. Steve) Fields, and Jason Bernhardt. He is also a grandfather to six grandchildren and great-grandfather to three great-grandchildren. He lovingly remembers his son, Jonathan Marshall Bernhardt, who passed away in 2004.
Throughout his career, Mr. Bernhardt has been deeply influenced by those who supported him. One such individual was Mable Stegall, his former secretary, whose financial discipline and loyalty contributed greatly to the business's stability. Mr. Bernhardt often credits her with helping him become a better steward of both finances and relationships, and he honors her memory with a portrait displayed in the funeral home.
A hallmark of Mr. Bernhardt’s work is his unwavering commitment to dignity and respect for every family he serves. He is meticulous in ensuring that each individual in his care is presented with grace—regardless of whether a viewing is planned. This dedication to quality and compassion has helped establish Bernhardt Funeral Home as one of the most trusted institutions in the region.
Mr. Bernhardt’s impact extends far beyond professional excellence. In 2009, he was named Citizen of the Year for Gilmer County, recognized for his quiet generosity, including financial support, food, and clothing provided to those in need. One nominator wrote, “I have known Billy for almost 50 years, and what stands out most is his willingness to help others without seeking recognition.” His legacy is defined not just by the business he built, but by the countless lives he has touched.
Today, Mr. Billy Bernhardt continues to work at Bernhardt Funeral Home every day. He remains a steadfast presence in the Ellijay community, embodying the principles of compassion, service, and integrity that have guided him for more than six decades. Those in need of his services or support are always welcome to contact the funeral home, where he continues to serve with unmatched care and humility.
Billy Bernhardt
Owner/Operator/Funeral Director/Embalmer
Mr. Billy Bernhardt is the esteemed owner and operator of Bernhardt Funeral Home, one of the most respected funeral establishments in North Georgia. From an early age, Mr. Bernhardt displayed a unique interest in funeral service. As a child, he made paper flowers for cemeteries and attended funerals in his community—even when he did not know the deceased—closely observing the work of funeral directors. Although some, including his father, considered this interest unusual, Mr. Bernhardt remained steadfast in his calling.
A native of Gilmer County, Mr. Bernhardt has served his community in multiple capacities. In addition to his longstanding leadership at Bernhardt Funeral Home, he served as the Coroner of Gilmer County for 22 years and as Sheriff for 14 years. His decades of commitment to public service were honored when he received a 50-year award from the Georgia Funeral Directors Association. He is also a distinguished member of the Academy of Graduate Embalmers of Georgia and the National Funeral Directors Association.
Mr. Bernhardt’s professional journey formally began when he worked at Hefner's Funeral Home prior to attending mortuary school. He earned his degree in 1961 from John A. Gupton Mortuary School in Nashville, Tennessee. Upon his return to Ellijay, he discovered that Hefner’s had been sold and the building was vacant—an opportunity he viewed as providential. In 1962, he opened Bernhardt Funeral Home in that very building, equipping it with a black Cadillac hearse and even an ambulance service. In 1973, he moved the business across the road to a larger facility with improved amenities and more parking.
In 1996, Mr. Bernhardt founded Yukon Cemetery to provide a dignified and well-maintained final resting place for community members. He also opened a flower shop, personally crafting funeral arrangements with unmatched care and attention to detail—often working late into the night to serve families in need.
Beyond his work in funeral services, Mr. Bernhardt has played a vital role in Gilmer County. Encouraged by community support, he ran for coroner and was appointed Sheriff of Gilmer County by Governor Frank Joe Harris. After completing his term, he successfully ran for re-election, defeating all five of his opponents.
Mr. Bernhardt is devoted to his family. He is married to the former Sandra Reece and is the proud father of three children: Jenny (Doug) Harrison, Martha (Rev. Steve) Fields, and Jason Bernhardt. He is also a grandfather to six grandchildren and great-grandfather to three great-grandchildren. He lovingly remembers his son, Jonathan Marshall Bernhardt, who passed away in 2004.
Throughout his career, Mr. Bernhardt has been deeply influenced by those who supported him. One such individual was Mable Stegall, his former secretary, whose financial discipline and loyalty contributed greatly to the business's stability. Mr. Bernhardt often credits her with helping him become a better steward of both finances and relationships, and he honors her memory with a portrait displayed in the funeral home.
A hallmark of Mr. Bernhardt’s work is his unwavering commitment to dignity and respect for every family he serves. He is meticulous in ensuring that each individual in his care is presented with grace—regardless of whether a viewing is planned. This dedication to quality and compassion has helped establish Bernhardt Funeral Home as one of the most trusted institutions in the region.
Mr. Bernhardt’s impact extends far beyond professional excellence. In 2009, he was named Citizen of the Year for Gilmer County, recognized for his quiet generosity, including financial support, food, and clothing provided to those in need. One nominator wrote, “I have known Billy for almost 50 years, and what stands out most is his willingness to help others without seeking recognition.” His legacy is defined not just by the business he built, but by the countless lives he has touched.
Today, Mr. Billy Bernhardt continues to work at Bernhardt Funeral Home every day. He remains a steadfast presence in the Ellijay community, embodying the principles of compassion, service, and integrity that have guided him for more than six decades. Those in need of his services or support are always welcome to contact the funeral home, where he continues to serve with unmatched care and humility.
Jacob Bernhardt
Apprentice/ Funeral Director & Embalmer
Jacob is a lifelong resident of Gilmer County and is a graduate of Gilmer High School, class of 2009. He is the oldest of Billy Bernhardt's grandchildren. Jacob began working in the funeral industry at the age of 16, while still in high school. After graduating high school, he enrolled at Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service and graduated in 2015. Jacob is a valued asset to our team as an apprentice Funeral Director and Embalmer. He assists families with making arrangements, directing funerals, preparing bodies, and overseeing day-to-day operations in the funeral home. In addition, Jacob owns and operates Riverside Monument Co. When he is not working, Jacob enjoys doing anything outdoors, especially Bass Fishing. He is the Father of 2 sons, Owen and Henley Bernhardt.
Jacob Bernhardt
Apprentice/ Funeral Director & Embalmer
Jacob is a lifelong resident of Gilmer County and is a graduate of Gilmer High School, class of 2009. He is the oldest of Billy Bernhardt's grandchildren. Jacob began working in the funeral industry at the age of 16, while still in high school. After graduating high school, he enrolled at Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service and graduated in 2015. Jacob is a valued asset to our team as an apprentice Funeral Director and Embalmer. He assists families with making arrangements, directing funerals, preparing bodies, and overseeing day-to-day operations in the funeral home. In addition, Jacob owns and operates Riverside Monument Co. When he is not working, Jacob enjoys doing anything outdoors, especially Bass Fishing. He is the Father of 2 sons, Owen and Henley Bernhardt.
Butch Anderson
Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer- GA/TN
The Bernhardt Funeral Home of Ellijay is pleased to welcome Mr. Butch Anderson back as a full-time funeral director and embalmer.
Butch is a lifelong resident of Blue Ridge. He graduated from West Fannin High School in 1968 and Gupton-Jones College of Mortuary Science in 1970.
Butch is licensed as a Funeral Director and Embalmer in Georgia and Tennessee. Butch and his wife, Karen, currently serve on the Board of Directors for the Fannin County Empty Stocking Program. He has four children, thirteen grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
Butch Anderson
Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer- GA/TN
The Bernhardt Funeral Home of Ellijay is pleased to welcome Mr. Butch Anderson back as a full-time funeral director and embalmer.
Butch is a lifelong resident of Blue Ridge. He graduated from West Fannin High School in 1968 and Gupton-Jones College of Mortuary Science in 1970.
Butch is licensed as a Funeral Director and Embalmer in Georgia and Tennessee. Butch and his wife, Karen, currently serve on the Board of Directors for the Fannin County Empty Stocking Program. He has four children, thirteen grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
Eaan Wilson
Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer GA/TN
The Bernhardt Funeral Home of Ellijay is proud to welcome Mr. Eaan Wilson as a full-time Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer.
Mr. Wilson is a licensed funeral director and embalmer in both Georgia and Tennessee, as well as a certified crematory operator. A native of North Georgia, he is a 2020 graduate of Northwest Whitfield High School and earned his funeral service education degree from Jefferson State Community College in 2023. Eaan is also an active member of Shiloh Baptist Church in Rossville.
We are honored to have him as part of our team and are confident he will continue to serve our community with compassion, professionalism, and dedication.
Eaan Wilson
Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer GA/TN
The Bernhardt Funeral Home of Ellijay is proud to welcome Mr. Eaan Wilson as a full-time Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer.
Mr. Wilson is a licensed funeral director and embalmer in both Georgia and Tennessee, as well as a certified crematory operator. A native of North Georgia, he is a 2020 graduate of Northwest Whitfield High School and earned his funeral service education degree from Jefferson State Community College in 2023. Eaan is also an active member of Shiloh Baptist Church in Rossville.
We are honored to have him as part of our team and are confident he will continue to serve our community with compassion, professionalism, and dedication.
Caden L. Farist
Licensed Apprentice - Funeral Director & Embalmer
Caden Farist is a dedicated resident of Gilmer County and has been a valued member of Bernhardt Funeral Home since October 2021. From the age of 15, Caden knew that funeral service was the calling God placed on his life. He is the son of Joe Farist of Ellijay and Valecia “Sissy” Cook Farist of Blue Ridge and is one of three triplet boys. A devout member of Clear Creek Baptist Church in Ellijay, Caden’s deep faith is central to both his personal life and professional service.
As a Certified Funeral Apprentice (FSA007233 – GA) through the State of Georgia, Caden plays an essential role at the funeral home. His responsibilities include coordinating and assisting with funerals, preparing obituaries, supporting visitations, helping with administrative duties, managing social media platforms, and creating funeral and cemetery arrangements in the flower shop when he is not assisting with services.
Caden is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Risk Management and Life Insurance with a Certificate in Entrepreneurship at the University of Georgia. After graduation, he plans to attend mortuary school and become a licensed funeral director and embalmer for Bernhardt Funeral Home. While at UGA, he is also actively involved in the University of Georgia Insurance Society and the Terry College of Business Gamma Iota Sigma.
A 2024 graduate of Gilmer High School, Caden was the Salutatorian of his class and Student Body President. He held leadership positions in numerous organizations, including the Principal’s Advisory Council, Student Government Association, National Beta Club (as an officer), Lead Gilmer, Chick-fil-A Leadership Council, and the Georgia State Superintendent Student Advisory Council. He also served as a student representative for district planning and was a member of the United Community Bank Junior Board of Directors. In addition, Caden was a full-time Dual Enrollment student at the University of North Georgia.
In his free time, Caden enjoys working with others and offering support wherever he can. He is passionate about attending churches, revivals, and gospel singings to support the ministry, spending time at Lake Chatuge with his family, talking with people in the community, and playing golf.
Caden strives to live a Christ-centered life built on compassion, service, and humility. He often says, “It’s certainly not about me. It is about helping others without expecting anything in return. The Lord has blessed me to be in this business that I love so dearly, and I am going to try my best to make an impact on as many lives as I can while giving Him all the praise, honor, and glory that He deserves.”
His contributions to Bernhardt Funeral Home are deeply valued, and he remains committed to serving every family with the same care, dignity, and respect that he would offer his own.
Caden L. Farist
Licensed Apprentice - Funeral Director & Embalmer
Caden Farist is a dedicated resident of Gilmer County and has been a valued member of Bernhardt Funeral Home since October 2021. From the age of 15, Caden knew that funeral service was the calling God placed on his life. He is the son of Joe Farist of Ellijay and Valecia “Sissy” Cook Farist of Blue Ridge and is one of three triplet boys. A devout member of Clear Creek Baptist Church in Ellijay, Caden’s deep faith is central to both his personal life and professional service.
As a Certified Funeral Apprentice (FSA007233 – GA) through the State of Georgia, Caden plays an essential role at the funeral home. His responsibilities include coordinating and assisting with funerals, preparing obituaries, supporting visitations, helping with administrative duties, managing social media platforms, and creating funeral and cemetery arrangements in the flower shop when he is not assisting with services.
Caden is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Risk Management and Life Insurance with a Certificate in Entrepreneurship at the University of Georgia. After graduation, he plans to attend mortuary school and become a licensed funeral director and embalmer for Bernhardt Funeral Home. While at UGA, he is also actively involved in the University of Georgia Insurance Society and the Terry College of Business Gamma Iota Sigma.
A 2024 graduate of Gilmer High School, Caden was the Salutatorian of his class and Student Body President. He held leadership positions in numerous organizations, including the Principal’s Advisory Council, Student Government Association, National Beta Club (as an officer), Lead Gilmer, Chick-fil-A Leadership Council, and the Georgia State Superintendent Student Advisory Council. He also served as a student representative for district planning and was a member of the United Community Bank Junior Board of Directors. In addition, Caden was a full-time Dual Enrollment student at the University of North Georgia.
In his free time, Caden enjoys working with others and offering support wherever he can. He is passionate about attending churches, revivals, and gospel singings to support the ministry, spending time at Lake Chatuge with his family, talking with people in the community, and playing golf.
Caden strives to live a Christ-centered life built on compassion, service, and humility. He often says, “It’s certainly not about me. It is about helping others without expecting anything in return. The Lord has blessed me to be in this business that I love so dearly, and I am going to try my best to make an impact on as many lives as I can while giving Him all the praise, honor, and glory that He deserves.”
His contributions to Bernhardt Funeral Home are deeply valued, and he remains committed to serving every family with the same care, dignity, and respect that he would offer his own.
Donald DeHart
Licensed Funeral Director & Embalmer
Mr. Doanld DeHart is a licensed funeral director, embalmer, and insurance agent.
He worked at Bernhardt Funeral Home for 43 years before he retired in January of 2021. Donald's expertise and contributions have been instrumental in shaping the funeral home into what it is today. He is a member of the Oakhill Independent Church, Oak Bowery Lodge #81, Georgia Funeral Director's Association, National Funeral Director's Association, and the Academy of Graduate Embalmers of Georgia.
Despite his retirement, Donald continues to assist us on a call-in basis during his free time. The Bernhardt Funeral Home expresses its gratitude to Mr. Donald DeHart for his unwavering dedication and years of service to our funeral home and the citizens of Gilmer County.
Donald DeHart
Licensed Funeral Director & Embalmer
Mr. Doanld DeHart is a licensed funeral director, embalmer, and insurance agent.
He worked at Bernhardt Funeral Home for 43 years before he retired in January of 2021. Donald's expertise and contributions have been instrumental in shaping the funeral home into what it is today. He is a member of the Oakhill Independent Church, Oak Bowery Lodge #81, Georgia Funeral Director's Association, National Funeral Director's Association, and the Academy of Graduate Embalmers of Georgia.
Despite his retirement, Donald continues to assist us on a call-in basis during his free time. The Bernhardt Funeral Home expresses its gratitude to Mr. Donald DeHart for his unwavering dedication and years of service to our funeral home and the citizens of Gilmer County.
Cody Evans
Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer
The Bernhardt Funeral Home of Ellijay proudly welcomes Mr. Cody Evans as a part-time employee.
Cody is a native of Ellijay, GA, and graduated from Gilmer High School in 2002. In 2005, Cody received his degree in Funeral Service Education from Ogeechee Technical College in Statesboro, GA.
He is a Licensed Funeral Director, Embalmer, and Life Insurance Agent. Cody has been in the funeral industry since 2000.
Cody and his family reside in Chatsworth, GA where he is a member of the Mountain View Baptist Church. In his spare time, he enjoys playing golf and watching sports.
Cody Evans
Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer
The Bernhardt Funeral Home of Ellijay proudly welcomes Mr. Cody Evans as a part-time employee.
Cody is a native of Ellijay, GA, and graduated from Gilmer High School in 2002. In 2005, Cody received his degree in Funeral Service Education from Ogeechee Technical College in Statesboro, GA.
He is a Licensed Funeral Director, Embalmer, and Life Insurance Agent. Cody has been in the funeral industry since 2000.
Cody and his family reside in Chatsworth, GA where he is a member of the Mountain View Baptist Church. In his spare time, he enjoys playing golf and watching sports.
Andrew (Andy) Marquez
Director of Prearrangements/ Licensed Ins. Agent
Andrew (Andy) Marquez began working with Bernhardt Funeral Home in 2019 as a licensed insurance agent specializing in prearrangements.
MBA from Shorter University and BBA from Georgia State University.
Andy currently lives in the Cherry Log Community and attends the United Methodist Church of Ellijay, GA.
He is married to Lori Marquez and they have two children, Thomas Marquez and Tawnia Vots and they have four grandchildren.
Andrew (Andy) Marquez
Director of Prearrangements/ Licensed Ins. Agent
Andrew (Andy) Marquez began working with Bernhardt Funeral Home in 2019 as a licensed insurance agent specializing in prearrangements.
MBA from Shorter University and BBA from Georgia State University.
Andy currently lives in the Cherry Log Community and attends the United Methodist Church of Ellijay, GA.
He is married to Lori Marquez and they have two children, Thomas Marquez and Tawnia Vots and they have four grandchildren.
Robin Evans
Office Manager/ Secretary
Robin is a life-long resident of Gilmer County and serves as a very important part of our team. Robin oversees the clerical affairs of the business. She takes care of filing death certificates, assisting with funerals, and helping each family in any way that she can. Robin is married to Tommy Evans, and they have three children and four grandchildren. She always has a warm smile and a kind word for everyone. Robin is available to help anytime.
Robin Evans
Office Manager/ Secretary
Robin is a life-long resident of Gilmer County and serves as a very important part of our team. Robin oversees the clerical affairs of the business. She takes care of filing death certificates, assisting with funerals, and helping each family in any way that she can. Robin is married to Tommy Evans, and they have three children and four grandchildren. She always has a warm smile and a kind word for everyone. Robin is available to help anytime.
Beth Arnold
Office Assistant / Funeral Attendant
Beth has been a resident of Gilmer County her entire life, having grown up in the Whitestone area. She is one of four children born to Lee and Buffy Rittenberry Holcombe.
Beth is married to Dusty Arnold, and they are the proud parents of two beautiful daughters, Reagan and Farrah. A graduate of Gilmer High School in 2010, Beth pursued further education at Ogeechee Technical College, focusing on the funeral service program.
We are pleased to have Mrs. Beth Arnold as a member of our team.
Beth Arnold
Office Assistant / Funeral Attendant
Beth has been a resident of Gilmer County her entire life, having grown up in the Whitestone area. She is one of four children born to Lee and Buffy Rittenberry Holcombe.
Beth is married to Dusty Arnold, and they are the proud parents of two beautiful daughters, Reagan and Farrah. A graduate of Gilmer High School in 2010, Beth pursued further education at Ogeechee Technical College, focusing on the funeral service program.
We are pleased to have Mrs. Beth Arnold as a member of our team.
Ricky Wimpey
Funeral Attendant/ Monument Salesman
Ricky Wimpey is a life-long resident of Gilmer County. He is married to Meredith (Callihan) Wimpey and they have four kids. Ricky was the former owner of the Dairy Queen in Ellijay, GA. Ricky helps the Bernhardt Funeral Home with monument sales, grounds keeping, putting tents up, and helping transport bodies. Ricky plays a vital part in the production of the funeral home and is ready to help anyone.
Ricky Wimpey
Funeral Attendant/ Monument Salesman
Ricky Wimpey is a life-long resident of Gilmer County. He is married to Meredith (Callihan) Wimpey and they have four kids. Ricky was the former owner of the Dairy Queen in Ellijay, GA. Ricky helps the Bernhardt Funeral Home with monument sales, grounds keeping, putting tents up, and helping transport bodies. Ricky plays a vital part in the production of the funeral home and is ready to help anyone.
Carson Farist
Funeral Attendant
We are pleased to have Carson Farist on our team.
Carson is the son of Joe and Valecia Farist of Ellijay. He was a graduate of Gilmer High School, Class of 2024 and a member of the Clear Creek Baptist Church of Ellijay, GA.
Carson always has a smile on his face and is ready to help.
Carson Farist
Funeral Attendant
We are pleased to have Carson Farist on our team.
Carson is the son of Joe and Valecia Farist of Ellijay. He was a graduate of Gilmer High School, Class of 2024 and a member of the Clear Creek Baptist Church of Ellijay, GA.
Carson always has a smile on his face and is ready to help.
Gary Watkins
Funeral Attendant
Gary Watkins
Funeral Attendant
Edward Casey
Visitation Assistant
Edward Casey
Visitation Assistant
Ann Casey
Visitation Assistant
Ann Casey
Visitation Assistant
Bonnie Smith
Flower Maker
Bonnie Smith
Flower Maker