Hickory Funeral Home was founded in 1928 by Cary E. “Thel” Hayworth, and was purchased by the Drum family in the 1940s. Originally located across from Hotel Hickory, Hickory Funeral Home moved to 102 First Ave. NE in 1948. Years later, John S. Hodges bought an interest in the business and managed it for several years.

Hickory was sold in 1970, at which point, Gene Carpenter took over the management position until his retirement in 1991. Ron Swift, an employee of Hickory since 1965, began managing daily operations after Mr. Carpenter’s retirement. The location moved once more to Lenoir-Rhyne Blvd., where a brand new facility was developed to serve the families of Catawba County and the surrounding area.