Our Staff

Our dedicated and supportive staff are here to guide you through this difficult journey. We take pride in doing our absolute best to ensure your needs are met. We are here for you.

Tyler E. Kent, Licensed Funeral Director and Manager


Tyler graduated from Horseheads High School in 2007, where he met his wife Ellen. He went on to earn his BS in Business Administration from SUNY Brockport and his A.A.S. in Funeral Service Administration from Hudson Valley CC in Troy, NY.   A licensed funeral director since 2014, he serves on committees for the New York State Funeral Directors Association and is on the board for the regional Finger Lakes Funeral Directors Association. Tyler is also a Certified Crematory Operator.

Walter J. Kent, Owner and Licensed Funeral Director


Walter began his career over 41 years ago at the Barrett Funeral Home in Elmira. In 2003 he built his own funeral home on the corner of Lake St. and Washington Avenue and continues to serve families there.  A Big Flats resident, he has been involved with the Elmira, Horseheads and Big Flats communities for decades, including serving on the Board of Directors for Meals on Wheels, the Chamber of Commerce and for his church parish. He has been active with several professional associations including the Finger Lakes Funeral Director Association, Selected Independent Funeral Homes and the NYS Funeral Directors Association, where he served as President from 2016-2017.  Walter is also a Certified Funeral Celebrant, receiving certification from the Insight Institute.

John P. Knapp, Licensed Funeral Director 


John P. Knapp has been serving the community for over 35 years having started his career with Walter 36 years ago at the James D. Barrett Funeral Home. Walt was his mentor but more importantly his friend. John is elated to join Walt and his son Tyler as they continue to serve families with excellence and compassion. He is a Lay Pastor and well known to the local Christian community. John loves his family, wife Lesley; children Amanda (Caleb) Drake, Allison Knapp and Ashley (Dylan) Robinson; grandchildren Joshua, Logan Leah and Julia Drake. 

<< BACK