Rooted in Shelby. Driven by Compassion. Trusted for Generations.
For generations, Penwell Funeral Home has been a trusted source of comfort for families in Shelby, Ohio and throughout Richland County. Rooted in tradition and designed for today, our funeral home offers a thoughtful balance of historic charm and modern care. Led by lifelong Shelby resident and licensed funeral director and embalmer Jake Penwell, we are proud to provide personal, dignified funeral care in Shelby, Ohio, always with a focus on the people we serve. Whether you’re planning ahead or navigating a recent loss, families across Richland County turn to us for meaningful support and compassionate guidance when it matters most.
At Penwell Funeral Home, we believe that exceptional funeral care starts with a deep connection to the community. Located in the heart of Shelby, Ohio, our Richland County funeral home reflects decades of dedication, compassion, and personalized service. Led by funeral director and embalmer Jake Penwell, we offer more than a place to say goodbye. We offer a place where families are treated like our own.
A Foundation Built on Dedication
Penwell Funeral Home’s story begins with Charles and Lucie Dye, who founded the Dye Funeral Home in 1932 with a simple but powerful mission: to serve Shelby families with dignity, compassion, and personal care. That mission continued under the stewardship of Bob and Catherine Turner, who lovingly restored and modernized the historic funeral home over several decades. Through their leadership, the funeral home became known not only for its beautiful setting but for the deep, unwavering support it offered to generations of families.
Discover the difference at our Shelby, Ohio funeral home—where your story matters and every life is honored with care.
Historic Roots, Ongoing Service
Jake Penwell was born and raised in Shelby, Ohio, and at just 14 years old, he began working at the funeral home under the guidance of the Turners, learning firsthand what it means to serve with empathy, dedication, and integrity. Inspired by their mentorship, Jake earned a business degree from Xavier University before following his calling to funeral service at the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science, graduating with honors in 2011.
After obtaining his funeral director and embalmer licenses, Jake fully committed himself to the people of Shelby and Richland County. In 2018, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by becoming the owner of the funeral home where he got his start. Today, he and his wife Lauren, also a licensed funeral director and embalmer, continue the legacy begun by the Dyes and lovingly carried forward by the Turners—treating every family with care, respect, and the personalized attention they deserve.
Today, Jake Penwell continues that tradition. Jake is honored to serve his community with the same personal care and unwavering commitment. He’s present, available, and fully invested in helping families create meaningful, one-of-a-kind services that reflect the lives and values of their loved ones.
Jake is joined by Brooke, a lifelong friend who will earn her Funeral Director’s license in August. Their history runs deep. Brooke once babysat Jake as a child, and years later, Jake and his brother were ring bearers in her wedding. That enduring bond reflects the close-knit spirit of the Shelby community they both proudly serve. Now working side by side, Jake and Brooke represent the next generation of care at Penwell Funeral Home. Their shared roots and genuine connection bring warmth, continuity, and a personal touch to every service. As the funeral home evolves, they remain committed to blending trusted traditions with thoughtful innovation, offering personalized support, modern grief resources, and a space where every family feels seen and cared for.
Whether you’re planning ahead or facing a recent loss, Jake, Brooke, and the Penwell team are here to support you every step of the way with warmth, flexibility, and a true sense of family.
Lifelong Local Commitment
Jake has served Shelby, Ohio families for over 20 years. He is rooted in community, shaped by mentorship, and driven by compassion.
Professional, Personalized Funeral Care
As licensed funeral directors and embalmers, Jake, Lauren, and Brooke lead a team devoted to making each service unique, whether it’s a small intimate gathering or a larger celebration of life.
Generations of Trust
With over 90 years of continuous service, Penwell Funeral Home remains a cornerstone for families throughout Richland County and beyond.
Experience the care and personalization that set us apart—schedule a consultation with our team today.
Rooted In Tradition, Designed for Today
Families who walk through our doors are treated like part of ours. Penwell Funeral Home is not a cookie-cutter facility. We understand that every life is different, and every memorial should reflect that. Whether you’re planning a small intimate gathering or a larger gathering of loved ones, our team will ensure the service is a meaningful, respectful, and personal reflection of your loved one.
This philosophy sets us apart in the funeral care industry. We take the time to listen, to plan thoughtfully, and to deliver services that go above and beyond what’s expected. That’s what makes us a trusted Shelby, Ohio funeral home and a preferred choice for Richland County families.