History & Staff

We have years of experience caring for families, from all walks of life. Each family comes to us because they know we are leaders in our profession, dedicated to excellence in service, and have the highest integrity.

Our History

Our History

Harry Hamilton started his funeral business in a Hoopeston storefront in 1922. He purchased the present facility from Lafayette Goodwine in 1935.

Eugene Orr acquired Hamilton Funeral Home in 1952 and renamed it to Hamilton-Orr Funeral Home. His son, William, assumed ownership in 1989.

When Ryan Anderson was fifteen, he started working for the Orr's, mowing the lawn and doing other odd jobs. After graduating from Hoopeston Area High School, Ryan received an associate's degree in applied science from Danville Area Community College in 1999. Ryan then attended Worsham College of Mortuary Science in Wheeling, Illinois and completed his studies in 2000. Ryan returned to Hoopeston to work at Hamilton-Orr Funeral Home. He managed the funeral home until taking ownership in 2006.

Per Bill Orr, retiring owner, "I would like to convey to you how pleased I am to be succeeded by a local resident, rather than a 'regional consolidator' or an 'out of town' stranger... His standards are high, and his management of the funeral home will certainly be a reflection of those standards. His future is bright and I will consider it a privilege to observe his career as it progresses from this point."

Our Valued Staff

  • Ryan  Anderson

    Ryan Anderson Owner & Funeral Director

    Became interested in the funeral business while watching his uncle, retired Vermilion County Coroner Lyle lrvin.The Anderson Family has farmed in northern Vermilion County since 1919. Today our family farm is being carried on by the fourth generation of farmers. His family-based agricultural background, in conjunction with thirteen years of employment at Hamilton-Orr Funeral Home, has prepared him to appreciate the diverse needs a family might require.

  • Megan Anderson

    Megan Anderson Co-Owner

  • David  Anderson

    David Anderson Director's Assistant

    Licensed Pre-need Counselor Has assisted Hamilton-Orr Funeral Home since 1991.