Unity Funeral Chapels

For over seven decades, Unity Funeral Chapels, Inc. has been a pillar of compassionate service in New York City’s African American community. Founded in 1953 by three visionary African American entrepreneurs, the firm remains independently owned and operated, with Clifford V. James serving as President and CEO, Vincent J. Morgan as Vice President and Manager of the Bronx Chapel, and John T. Dash (retired) as a founding partner. The company’s enduring mission is to provide dignified, affordable, and culturally sensitive funeral and cremation services to families throughout Manhattan, the Bronx, and Brooklyn.

Unity Funeral Chapels operates three conveniently located chapels: the Manhattan Chapel at 2352 8th Avenue (also known as Frederick Douglass Boulevard), the Bronx Chapel at 1018 Prospect Avenue, and the Brooklyn Chapel at 1406 Pitkin Avenue. Each location is wheelchair accessible and features an onsite chapel for visitations, services, and memorials. The chapels are designed to offer a warm, respectful environment where families can gather to honor their loved ones.

The firm offers a full range of end‑of‑life services, including traditional full‑service burial, full‑service cremation, and direct cremation. Pricing is transparent and competitive, with a traditional burial starting at $6,475, full‑service cremation at $4,330, and direct cremation at $1,810. Unity also accepts a variety of payment methods and is accredited by the Better Business Bureau, reflecting its commitment to ethical business practices.

Beyond its core services, Unity Funeral Chapels provides online obituary listings, allowing friends and family to share memories and condolences. The company’s website features recent obituaries and a simple interface for finding service times and locations. With a history spanning more than 70 years, Unity Funeral Chapels continues to be a trusted partner for New Yorkers navigating the difficult journey of loss, offering professional guidance, personalized care, and a legacy of community service.