About Us

Who we are

Since 1953, we have been honored to deliver healing experiences to the community

We exist to serve the unique needs of every family. Learn our story. Lean on us. And let our expertise lead you through the best experience possible.

What we stand for

Our promise

Today, tomorrow, and forever, our commitment to you stays the same.

Dignity

Every life is unique, and we promise to honor and respect each journey, crafting ceremonies that reflect each individual.

Guidance

Navigating grief can be overwhelming; we stand by you, providing direction and solace every step of the way.

Legacy

Beyond a service, we're committed to helping families create lasting tributes that transcend generations.

Our story

Trader Funeral Home, Inc. was founded in 1953 by Roland P. Trader and his wife, Grace T. Trader. Roland was a graduate of Eckels Mortuary School in Philadelphia.
The first funeral home was located near Kent General Hospital at 803 South State Street in Dover. Roland and Grace had two sons—Thomas (Tom) and Ross—who share the same birthday, two years apart on April 1.
The current funeral home, located at 12 Lotus Street, has been in operation since 1955 and has undergone several updates over the years.
In 1976, the family business expanded when both sons, Tom and Ross, became Delaware-licensed funeral directors. Grace later followed, becoming a licensed funeral director in 1980. Tom and Ross also became licensed funeral directors in Maryland in 1988. Both are graduates of the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science.
Following Roland’s passing in 1994, the Roland P. Trader Scholarship Award was established for the Kent County Volunteer Firefighters Association. After Grace’s passing in 1998, Tom and Ross continued operating the family business.
In 2002, the funeral home received the Exemplary Service Bronze Award from the International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR).
Trader Funeral Home is a proud member of the NFDA, OGR, the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce, and the Delmarva Funeral Directors Association.
Tom and Ross are graduates of Dover High School and lifelong members of Robbins Hose Fire Company / Dover Fire Department.
Ross is married and has two daughters, two sons-in-law, and four grandchildren. He enjoys hunting, tuna fishing, football, NASCAR, sporting clays, and traveling to visit his grandchildren.
Tom is a member of the Delaware Auctioneer Association. He is married, has two stepsons and three step-grandchildren, and enjoys bowling, hunting, skeet shooting, and sporting clays.
Families know they can count on us to provide the comfort and support they need during their most difficult times.

Meet the team

Families know they can count on us to provide them the comfort they need when they need it most

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Tom and Ross Trader

Founders / Owners

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Explore our Facility

The perfect place to hold a meaningful and unique ceremony.

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We're here for you

Where the memory of your loved one can be uniquely celebrated

One-Stop Arrangements

We provide funeral & cemetery arrangements and strive to make each step of the process seamless and customized to your needs.

Personalized Services

Every loved one is unique. Celebrate them with ceremonies and tributes that are authentic to the life they lived.

24/7/365 Support Staff

You’re never alone. Our dedicated staff is always available to assist you with making arrangements and finding support.

Real stories from real people

“Today I attended a Aunt funeral I have been to several funerals here the staff is amazing friendly and beyond helpful and personable.”
Author: Michael Gray rated with 5 stars

“Good, not a lot of parking but very friendly”
Author: Eric Walls rated with 5 stars

“A family that is always there for you, generation after generation.”
Author: Carol Hughes rated with 5 stars

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We're hiring

Join us

Beyond the opportunity to truly make a difference, Trader Funeral Home, Inc. offers competitive pay, a healthy work-life balance, and many opportunities for growth.

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Plan for the future, today

Pre-planning lets your loved ones focus on honoring life instead of hashing out details. Learn the choices you can make now, so a future funeral becomes more of a celebration than a burden.

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