Aledo, Il

Our historic building has lived many lives. It began as a cigar factory, later an extension of the Murphy Furniture Store, which was located across the alley, and eventually a funeral home. The formal chapel, on the west-side of the funeral home, was added in 1939. In July 2000, the building was gutted by fire and abandoned. In 2003, renovation efforts began under new ownership.

In September 2003, William J. Bewley, funeral director and embalmer, opened a store front funeral service office on Main Street in Aledo. Services and visitations were held at area churches and community venues. In July 2005, following complete renovation of the historic building on SW 3rd St. (Hwy 17), Bewley Funeral Home and Cremation Service celebrate a Grand Reopening at the new location. Bill Bewley owned the funeral home until his unexpected passing in January 2017.

Jeff Nichols and Travis Anell helped Bill open his new funeral business in 2003, and continued to assist in the operation. In late 2013, Jeff began managing the funeral home. Following Bill's passing in 2017, Jeff and Travis purchased the business, and continue to serve Mercer County area families today.

In 2019, the name was changed to Nichols Bewley Funeral and Cremation Services to reflect the change of ownership and continued legacy of caring.