Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home

A Legacy of Care

Written by Dayne Commander | Photos by Riyen Helg

For over 50 years, Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home and Crematory has been more than just a funeral home—it has been a pillar of support for families navigating life’s most difficult goodbyes. Under the leadership of Lance Vicknair, a lifelong Tangipahoa resident with a heart for his community, the funeral home remains committed to serving with dignity, compassion, and an unmatched level of care. But what truly sets them apart? It’s not just their services—it’s the way they care, the way they connect, and the way they make every family feel like their own.

The Only On-Site Crematory in Tangipahoa Parish

One of the most defining aspects of Harry McKneely & Son is their onsite crematory that is available for both their Hammond and Ponchatoula locations. Since 2008, they have been the only funeral home in Tangipahoa Parish to offer this service, ensuring that loved ones remain under the careful watch of trusted professionals from start to finish.

As cremation grows in popularity, families are looking for a seamless, stress-free process. Not too long ago, Harry McKneely & Son handled only a handful of cremations—five or six per year. Today, that number has surged, with 35-40% of families opting for cremation. Having an onsite crematory means families don’t have to worry about their loved one being transported elsewhere. Every step is handled with dignity, security, and the personal care that defines the McKneely standard.

FOR OVER 50 YEARS, HARRY MCKNEELY & SON HAS BEEN A PILLAR OF SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES NAVIGATING LIFE’S MOST DIFFICULT GOODBYES.

A Team That Feels Like Family

At the core of the funeral home’s success is its team of 10 licensed funeral directors. These aren’t just funeral professionals—they’re people who have spent decades walking alongside families in their hardest moments. Many of them, including Lance himself, have been with the funeral home for years, building relationships that extend across generations.

When families walk through the doors of Harry McKneely & Son, they aren’t just another client—they’re neighbors and lifelong connections. In a world that often feels impersonal, this deep sense of community and care is what makes all the difference, from the very first phone call to the final farewell.

The Value of Pre-Planning

If there’s one thing Lance emphasizes to families, it’s the importance of pre-planning. Thinking ahead might not be easy, but it can make all the difference when the time comes. Pre-planning not only ensures that final wishes are honored, but it also helps families avoid rising costs due to inflation. More importantly, it spares loved ones from making difficult decisions during an already emotional time. It’s a gift of peace of mind, both financially and emotionally.

Perhaps the most reassuring part of choosing Harry McKneely & Son is knowing they’re always available. Day or night, weekday or weekend, their team is just a phone call away, ready to guide families through every step. From traditional services to personalized celebrations of life, they take care of every detail so families can focus on what truly matters—honoring their loved ones.

More Than Just a Funeral Home

At its heart, Harry McKneely & Son is more than a business—it’s a legacy of care, a family of professionals, and a place where every goodbye is met with grace, dignity, and the warmth of a community that truly cares. Recently, Harry McKneely & Son was recognized as Best in the Parish, a reflection of the trust and appreciation they have earned over the years.

The Staff of Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home

Always Here, Always Available

With their on-site crematory, experienced staff, and unwavering commitment to serving local families, Harry McKneely & Son continues to be the name families trust in their most challenging moments. At Harry McKneely & Son, every service is more than just a ceremony—it’s a tribute to a life well lived and handled with the utmost care and respect.