Augusta funeral home plans to rebuild following fire

Apr. 17--Mark Jones is in the process of rebuilding after an April fire destroyed Poteet Funeral Home. His goal is to continue to serve those families who have lost their loved ones.

"They can continue to call us," he said. "It's not business as usual. We've had some adjustments in the way we do business, but we are going to be able to continue to serve families the way we have always served them."

Jones is general manager of the funeral home on Peach Orchard Road, which was destroyed by an April 2 fire. He said a lot of his colleagues in the funeral home business have helped him as he tries to rebuild.

"I've had some really good friends that have come by, and my (colleagues) have reached out and helped me out as much as they can," he said. "It's just a win-win for all of us, because they have all come together to help me continue business."

The Richmond County Coroner's Office assisted the funeral home by taking two bodies found inside until Jones could figure out what to do. Jones said the coroner's office also took some cremated remains to secure them.

Jones said all the bodies that were at the funeral home have been returned to the families, but they can still contact him with questions or concerns.

"We are in the plans of (rebuilding). Working with insurance and getting the structure that is there right now tore down and clear the lot and start again," he said.

The funeral home has been in business since 1934, and Jones said he is thankful for the community's support during this difficult time.

"We deeply appreciate the gratitude from everyone that has reached out to us and all the generosity that everyone has had towards us that want us to rebuild," he said.

The fire is still being investigated by the Augusta Fire Department and the Georgia fire marshal. No injuries were reported.

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