History & Story

Our History

Bennie Smith Funeral Home has the proud distinction of being recognized as one of the largest African-American owned funeral homes on Delmarva.  Founded by Chairman and CEO Bennie Smith in 1982, Bennie Smith established a start-up of 14 funeral homes in the Delmarva tri-state area.

Bennie Smith Funeral Home and their knowledgeable staff of Licensed Funeral Directors, Arrangers, Embalmers, Certified Crematory Operators along with a designated Pre-Need Team have been supporting families with community focused, personalized “Signature” Funeral/Cremation Services and related merchandise, for 40 years.

For the past 13 years, daily operations have been under the guidance of COO, Terrence D. Nichols, a long-time business colleague and personal friend of both Mr. and Mrs. Bennie Smith. Mr. Nichols was born and raised on the Eastern Shore, a successful entrepreneur, married and has one son.  As a result of their business and personal relationships, in the spring of 2022, Mr. Terrence Nichols acquired ownership of the Bennie Smith Funeral Home, Delaware locations.  Mr. Smith continues to maintain an office at the main location, located in Dover, Delaware. They continue to collaborate as we continue to serve in excellence.