ALTON, Ill. — Pinnacle Funeral Service has acquired Gent Funeral Home & Cremation Services, a trusted provider in the greater Alton community for more than 90 years. The funeral home will continue operating under its established name with its current staff, ensuring families receive the same compassionate care and personal service they have come to know and trust.
Founded in 1935 by Ralph A. Gent, Gent Funeral Home & Cremation Services has served generations of families throughout the Alton area. In 1970, Gent’s sons-in-law, Lester Bowles and Robert Scoggins, purchased the business. Following Scoggins’ passing in 1985, Lester and Joanne (Gent) Bowles became sole owners. Their son, Ralph Bowles, joined the firm in 1988 and later led the business alongside his wife, Dawn. Ralph’s sisters, Lynn, Laura, and Louise, also played important roles in the family business over the years.
With no family members from the next generation planning to continue the business, the Bowles family sought a partner committed to preserving the funeral home’s legacy and caring for both its staff and the community.
“It has been an honor to serve so many families over the years, and the bonds I’ve formed with them are what I’ll miss most,” said Ralph Bowles, former owner of Gent Funeral Home & Cremation Services. “I wanted a partner who would treat our community like extended family and keep our entire staff. There was never any pressure to make a deal. They simply wanted the transition to be seamless and our family legacy to continue. I’m confident Pinnacle’s professionalism and resources will allow them to serve this community well for years to come.”
Pinnacle Funeral Service is committed to preserving the traditions and reputation that have made Gent Funeral Home & Cremation Services a respected name in the community. The firm will continue to operate under the leadership of its longtime local manager, providing continuity for the families it serves.
“We’re honored that Ralph and Dawn trusted us to carry on what their family built,” said Tony Kumming, President of Pinnacle Funeral Service. “Our promise is simple: keep the name, keep the team, and serve every family with respect and dignity.”
About Pinnacle Funeral Service
Pinnacle Funeral Service partners with respected funeral home owners seeking succession solutions, growth capital, or long-term operational support while preserving the local relationships and traditions that define their businesses. Through a locally focused approach, Pinnacle helps funeral homes continue serving their communities while providing the resources needed for long-term success.
Funeral home owners interested in learning more about partnership opportunities may contact Tony Kumming, President, at tony@pinnaclefunerals.com.
