D onnellan Family Funeral Services was founded September 29, 1913 by Edward Joseph Donnellan, Sr. The business was located at 92nd and Commercial Avenue in South Chicago. Edward Donnellan began the firm in a response to his desire to serve the community and fulfill his religious convictions. Edward had been a seminarian.
From the firm's beginnings, the Donnellan family has been dedicated to the mission of providing families with the highest quality funeral services while treating families with sensitivity and compassion. All associates of the firm have understood that primary focus of Donnellan's treating all whom they serve with dignity and respect.
The initial operation of the business was in a store front setting, as families conducted visitations in their homes. Following moves to several locations in South Chicago, Edward located the business in South Shore in 1926, as population shifts dictated. The move to South Shore also marked the construction of Donnellan Funeral Home at 77th and Jeffery Boulevard.


The building housed several funeral chapels as well as apartments for associates and their families. The facility was air-conditioned. This innovation encouraged families to make the transition from home to chapel visitations.