Imagine a weathered bronze plaque. It stands proudly on a pole. This is the King-Tears Mortuary plaque in Austin Texas. It tells a story spanning over a century. It’s a story of resilience service and community. William M Tears Sr opened the Tears Funeral Home in 1901. It was the first Black-owned funeral home in Texas. He served the African American community with dignity and respect. This was a time when resources for Black families were severely limited. Tears Funeral Home provided essential services. It addressed the vital need for respectful burials. William M Tears Sr also played a key role in the establishment of Bethany Cemetery. This was in response to a shortage of burial space for the Black community.
Years later in 1933 Charles and Alice King opened King and Company. This later became King Funeral Home. It too served Austin’s Black community. In 1934 Tears Funeral Home relocated to its current location. King Funeral Home made significant renovations in 1936. The two businesses joined forces in 1955. They merged to create King-Tears Mortuary. This merger marked a significant turning point. It symbolized the continued commitment to providing quality service. King-Tears Mortuary went on to expand its services. It also engaged in numerous charitable works. The King-Tears Mortuary continues to operate. It has become a cornerstone of the Austin community. It remains an important part of Austin’s heritage. The plaque stands as a testament to the legacy of these two families. Their dedication to the African American community is remarkable. It’s a story of perseverance and service. A story etched in bronze and in the hearts of Austinites.