JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Chapel and Oaklawn Cemetery, part of the Dignity Memorial® network, announced plans to expand its facility off Hendricks Avenue.
The planned expansion on six acres adjacent to the cemetery will add a new chapel and Life Well Celebrated center, a funeral and reception area, as well as expanded parking facilities for funerals and memorial services.
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“We are excited about our expansion plans which will allow us to better serve families in the Jacksonville area,” said Jody Brandenburg, president of Hardage-Giddens.
Opened in 1927, Oaklawn Cemetery has a rich history in the Jacksonville community. Tommy C. Shad, who is the owner and caretaker of the Shad family property adjacent to the cemetery, said after many years of determining what is in the best interest of the family, the family made the decision to sell the property to Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn.
Finding the right buyer, honoring the property that has been home to many generations of Shad’s and timing factored into the decision.
“We wanted a buyer that would honor and preserve the property and one that would take an active role in maintaining the integrity of its unique beauty,” said Shad. “Oaklawn is the best fit and we are confident in its reputation and heritage.”
The new facilities will be on the north side of Oaklawn Cemetery, on Inman Place.