History of Fentress Mortuary

Fentress Mortuary is located six blocks from the heart of downtown Fort Smith. Constructed in a "Dutch" architectural style using yellow brick and stucco panels, it was one of the first buildings of this type constructed in Fort Smith.

The entire upstairs part of the building was dedicated as a living space for owners Oscar and Mae Fentress as well as sleeping quarters for the staff.

The chapel features a very high vaulted ceiling with huge exposed wooden beams and beautiful stained glass windows on both sides. The mural on the wall behind the alcove is the work of Roy T. Sheddy, a well-known artist of the day.

The adjoining family room and stateroom adjacent to the chapel are paneled in solid walnut. The large stateroom next to the chapel was once an open-air courtyard, but was closed in and roofed as the business grew and demanded more space. There are two smaller staterooms available, both of which can be divided to accommodate larger services.