Our Story
Learn our story, from the beginning and into the future.
At a time when many funeral homes are owned by mega-corporations listed on the national stock exchanges, Music Funeral Service has remained a local family business. The Music's feel they can better serve Valdosta and Lakeland's families and its communities by remaining a family owned and operated business.
The late W.G. "Glyndon" Sr. and Maxine Music founded Music Funeral Service of Lakeland in 1955. After Glyndon's retirement in 1974, he turned the family business over to his son, W.G. "Dub" Music, Jr. In 1995, Casey L. Music, son of Dub Music joined a tradition of compassion and caring for each family's needs no matter what their statue in life. In 2012, the third son of Dub, Glyndon "Lee" Music, came to work for the family business.
In August of 2001, the tradition expanded to a Valdosta location, which Casey is the location manager. After many renovations we feel our facilities can provide a comfortable and homelike atmosphere to accommodate each family's needs.
Music Funeral Service can arrange national and international transfers, prearrangements, and cremations, as well as traditional funerals which can be held either in our chapel, at the cemetery, or one's home church.
Why Us?
In a nutshell? Experience, professionalism, compassion, and empathy.
We've learned a lot over many years. Like how to present options without overwhelming. And how to meet the needs of many caring parties. People come to us in difficult times, and we respond kindness, calmness and expertise. Our goal is to create a beautiful occasion and make you feel welcome, always. We spend our days planning with families. We stay up to date with industry developments. And we make hard times a little easier.
Who We Are
Meet our staff. Members of the local community make everything that happens possible.
Together, we make this place amazing.
Casey L. Music
Funeral Director
Casey L. Music, a proud Lakeland native, has woven a rich tapestry of life experiences. His roots trace back to Lakeland, where he was born to Dub Music and the late Judy Music but he was raised by Dub and Wilma Music. Casey's educational journey led him to success as a graduate of Lanier County High School, followed by his distinguished tenure at the Gupton-Jones School of Funeral Service, where his dedication earned him the prestigious Richard Stewart Memorial Scholarship.
His commitment to the funeral service industry extends beyond his academic achievements. Casey actively contributes to the field, having served on the board of the Board of Georgia Funeral Directors Association and the Academy of Graduate Embalmers. He also holds memberships in the esteemed National Funeral Directors Association, the Lakeland Masonic Lodge #434 and the Azalea Lodge #716.
In matters of the heart, Casey found love in his marriage to Brooke Dean, a fellow Valdosta native and the cherished daughter of Larry and Beth Dean from Lake Park. Their family is a testament to their love and devotion, with their daughter, Kaytibeth, pursuing her studies at Valdosta State University, while their son, Aubrey, thrives as a senior at Valwood School in Hahira.
Animals hold a special place in the Music household, particularly their fondness for dogs, exemplified by the recent addition of Maxine, their beloved schnauzer. Their sense of community extends to their involvement at First Baptist Church in Valdosta, where they find spiritual nourishment and connections with their faith community.
Casey's passions transcend the professional sphere; he finds solace and joy spending quality time on the beach or navigating the waves in his boat at Mexico Beach, relishing these moments with his cherished family. An ardent enthusiast of outdoor activities, Casey eagerly embraces various adventures that nature presents, fostering a deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures.
Lee Music
Funeral Director
Lee Music, born in Valdosta, GA but nurtured in Lakeland, GA, he is one of the offspring of Dub and Wilma Music. He completed his secondary education at Lanier County High School in 2012 and proudly holds the status of an alumnus of Georgia Military College. With a profound dedication to his field, Lee earned his associates degree in Mortuary Science from Ogeechee Technical College in Statesboro, GA. Lee continues to proudly call Lakeland, GA, his cherished home.
Lee is a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer, dedicating himself entirely to Music Funeral Services since 2012. His commitment and expertise shine through his full-time engagement in the profession. Adding another layer to his life, Lee cherishes his marital bond with April Browning, and together they joyfully raise their cherished offspring, Glyndon "Thomas" Music.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Lee finds solace and fulfillment in outdoor activities like hunting and fishing, fostering a deep connection with nature. However, his utmost joy comes from spending quality time with his beloved family, relishing each moment they share. Their spiritual compass guides them to the Southside Baptist Church in Lakeland, GA.
Patches Phillips
Funeral Director
Patches, a proud native of Naylor, GA, boasts an extensive tenure as a Funeral Director, harnessing his expertise over many years. His professional journey has seen various turns, initially gracing the halls of Music Funeral Services in his youth before venturing into the realm of banking, where he made a substantial impact for several years. However, fate led him back to his true calling, and in 2021, Patches returned to the funeral home, reinstating his association on a part-time basis, eventually transitioning to a full-time role as of August 1, 2022.
Beyond his commitments in funeral services, Patches has served Lanier County for over 25 years as the Coroner and Deputy Coroner, illustrating his steadfast dedication to public service. His personal life is enriched by his marriage to Jane and their two beloved children, Isabella and Garrett.
Patches' unwavering support for the sporting fabric of Lanier County is unparalleled. He invests considerable time backing various athletic programs within the Lanier County schools, often traveling out of town to lend his support to multiple Lanier County athletic events. At the helm of the Lanier County Basketball Boosters, Patches assumes the role of President, channeling his passion for sports into enhancing the local basketball community.
Amidst his professional and community engagements, Patches finds excitement in the great outdoors. An ardent hunter, he embraces the thrill of hunting both deer and birds, immersing himself in nature's rhythms.
Patches exemplifies a multifaceted individual, balancing his professional acumen, community involvement, family commitments, and personal passions with remarkable dedication and enthusiasm, leaving an indelible mark on both the funeral service industry and the fabric of Lanier County.
Cole Tucker
Funeral Director
Step into the extraordinary journey of Cole Tucker, a devoted professional whose story weaves a tapestry of passion, skill, and diverse interests. In 2019, Cole embarked on his path at Music Funeral Services as a Funeral Service Apprentice, igniting his passion for serving families during their most tender moments. Eager to deepen his expertise, he pursued education at Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service, culminating in the proud acquisition of his Funeral Director's and Embalmer's Licenses in May 2023.
Hailing from the charming town of Hahira, Georgia, Cole is a proud native deeply rooted in his community's ethos. Beyond his heartfelt commitment to his vocation, Cole's life brims with an array of vibrant pursuits. A multi-talented individual, he finds joy in captivating audiences through the art of ventriloquism, harmonizing melodies on the guitar and piano, and lending his voice to soulful tunes.
Cole's heart, however, found its perfect match in his union with Kaytlin on December 2, 2023, marking a beautiful milestone in their lives. Their love extends even further with the recent adoption of Gunner, their beloved furry companion.
In Cole's story, dedication intertwines with a myriad of passions, painting a portrait of a compassionate professional, a talented artist, and a devoted family man, all bound by an unwavering commitment to his community's well-being.
Brooke Music
Casey's Wife
Brooke, the cherished partner of Casey Music, has shared a beautiful marital journey with him since 2002. Her deep involvement in the funeral industry dates back to 1996, reflecting her longstanding commitment to this profession. Born in Valdosta, GA, Brooke spent most of her formative years in Lake Park, GA, where she currently resides with Casey.
As the daughter of Larry and Beth Dean, Brooke's roots in the community run deep, further solidified by her educational journey. She proudly holds degrees from both Lowndes High School and Valdosta State University, marking significant milestones in her academic endeavors.
Brooke and Casey's loving family extends to their two beloved children: a daughter named Kaytibeth and a son named Aubrey. Brooke's heart brims with joy when she spends quality time with her children, whether it's riding the waves on a boat across picturesque lakes or basking in the sun-kissed shores of Mexico Beach, creating treasured memories with her family.
Beyond her familial roles, Brooke nurtures an affection for their furry companions, lovingly caring for Ginger, Lucy, Remi, and Maxine, their cherished four-legged members. Known for her perpetual smile and infectious positivity, Brooke effortlessly brings joy and warmth to everyone she encounters, leaving a lasting, uplifting impact on all fortunate enough to know her.
Janet Newton
Office Operations Coordinator
Janet Newton has been the cornerstone of our office since 2012, diligently ensuring the seamless operation of both our Lakeland and Valdosta offices. Beyond her multifaceted role, Janet plays a pivotal part in processing insurance documents and handling the sensitive task of organizing death certificates for families under our care.
Hailing from the tight-knit community of Hahira, Janet's roots run deep, having been born and raised there to her beloved parents, Johnny and Rudine Vickers. A proud alumna of Lowndes High School, Janet cherishes enduring connections with her former classmates, fostering cherished bonds that have stood the test of time.
In her personal life, Janet finds immense joy as a mother to her two daughters, Alexis McCullough and Logan Newton. Her role as a grandmother brings immeasurable happiness, cherishing every moment with her grandchildren, Adalyn and Jake McCullough. Beyond her familial ties, Janet's heart gravitates towards the serenity of the beach, exploring new destinations through travel, and savoring invaluable moments spent in the company of her cherished family and friends.
Alan Leonard
Cremation Director
Alan became an invaluable addition to Music Funeral Services, commencing his dedicated tenure as a full-time employee in December of 2016. His roots trace back to Lake Park, GA, where he settled in 1971 and completed his education at Lowndes High School. Presently, Alan calls Echols County home, serving the community in various capacities.
His longstanding commitment to public service is evident through his role as the Coroner of Echols County, a position he has held since 2008. His leadership extends further as he was democratically elected in 2012 to assume the esteemed position of Region 5 District Director for the Georgia Coroner’s Association, overseeing a broad expanse of 31 counties in southwest Georgia.
At Music Funeral Services, Alan shoulders the crucial responsibility of managing the crematory operations, ensuring that each cremation reflects the utmost dignity, professionalism, and care, aligning seamlessly with Azalea’s cremation services and meeting families' expectations.
Alan now finds himself in the phase of an "empty nest" after devoting years to raising his three daughters. Emily, the eldest, has embarked on a career with the State of Georgia in Atlanta, GA, carving her professional path in the state's vibrant capital. Meanwhile, Sarah, one of the twins, currently resides in Athens, where she attends the esteemed University of Georgia, sharing a home with Emily while pursuing her education. As for Kaelyn, the other twin, she has recently taken up residence in Lake City, engaging in employment while pursuing online courses at Valdosta State University, charting her own academic journey.
Amidst these transitions, Alan remains an active member of the Enoch Creek Community Church in Echols County, finding solace, guidance, and a sense of community within the congregation. As his daughters embrace their own paths, Alan continues to foster his connection to both his faith and his evolving familial landscape.
Janice Harnage
Administrative Assistant
Janice Harnage stands as an unwavering cornerstone of Music Funeral Services, having dedicated herself to the Lakeland office since 1992. Her steadfast commitment ensures that the Lakeland office operates at its peak efficiency, fortified by her extensive knowledge and unparalleled expertise. Without Janice, the smooth functioning of our office would be markedly diminished.
Visitors and callers to the Lakeland funeral home are greeted by Janice's warm and accommodating demeanor, creating an atmosphere of genuine welcome and assistance. Her roots run deep in Lakeland, GA, where she was born and raised by her parents, Lossie & Ava Nell (Browning) Miller, who lovingly raised 11 children, instilling in Janice a strong sense of family and community.
Having retired from the Lanier County School System in 2011, Janice is an esteemed member of the Little Block Holiness Church, where her presence is valued and cherished. Her marriage to Russell Harnage, a dedicated employee of Music Funeral Services since 1988, lasted seven years until his passing in 1998, leaving behind a legacy of service and commitment to the organization.
In her family life, Janice finds immense joy in her daughter, Lisa Johnson, along with her two grandsons, Matthew and Dillon Parker, and her three great-grandsons, Wyatt, Charles, and Memphis Parker. Beyond her familial bonds, Janice indulges in hobbies such as reading, finding solace and enjoyment in the pages of a good book, and surprisingly, in the meticulous art of ironing.
Janice Harnage is not just an integral part of our team; she embodies a spirit of dedication, warmth, and community, enriching both our workplace and the lives of those she encounters.
Paula Sheffield
Preneed Specialist
Paula, our respected Preneed Specialist, has been an integral part of our team since 2012. Her unwavering dedication stems from a profound desire to assist individuals in planning for the future, alleviating their families from the weight of arrangements after their passing. Beyond her role, Paula serves as a licensed insurance agent, a crucial asset in guiding individuals through the intricate financial facets of preplanning.
Raised in a military family, Paula's life has been a mosaic of diverse experiences, having traversed the globe during her upbringing. Among the places she called home, Germany holds a special place in her heart, being where she completed her high school education. Following her studies at Middle Georgia College, she settled in Valdosta, drawn by the proximity to her family and eventually marrying Larry Sheffield, a fellow military serviceman. Together, they embarked on a journey that saw them stationed across various international destinations, contributing their skills to both the Departments of Defense and Justice. Upon retiring from their service, they returned to Valdosta.
The cherished union of Paula and Larry bore fruit in the form of their daughter, April, who currently resides in Florida with her husband, Chris. The passing of Larry in 2020, after 41 years of marriage, marked a poignant moment for Paula. However, she fervently advocates that their decision to make prearrangements stood as one of their wisest choices. Honoring Larry's wishes brought solace during a challenging period, as the process unfolded seamlessly.
Paula's firsthand experience underscores the importance of preplanning and the peace it brings during trying times. Her empathy, fortified by personal experience, allows her to guide others through similar journeys with compassion and expertise.
Dub Music
Funeral Director
Dub Music's journey began in Hahira, GA, where he came into the world, later finding his roots firmly planted in Lakeland, GA, under the care of the late W.G. "Glyndon" and Maxine Music. His educational milestones include graduating from Lanier County High School in Lakeland, GA, followed by his dedication to the field of funeral service, culminating in his graduation from Gupton-Jones School of Funeral Service in 1974.
Stepping into the footsteps of family tradition and with a profound sense of responsibility, Dub assumed the reins of the family-owned funeral home after his father's retirement in 1974. His life's journey expanded when he married Wilma Wacter, and together they nurtured and guided four sons: Casey (Brooke), Michael (Kristy), Lee (April), and Kyle (Laura), embracing the joys of parenthood and the blessings of several cherished grandchildren.
Retiring in 2014, Dub gracefully passed on the legacy to his eldest son, Casey Music, while maintaining an active presence in the community. His involvement extends to the Lakeland Masonic Lodge #434, where he serves as the secretary, showcasing his dedication to fraternity and service.
In the realm of spirituality, Dub's heartfelt service extends to his role as a pastor for Good Hope Church in Naylor, GA, where he passionately spreads the gospel, sharing wisdom and offering guidance to those in his congregation. However, when not engaged in his pastoral duties, Dub finds contentment in spending quality time with his beloved family, especially relishing moments with his cherished grandchildren.
His passion for nurturing life extends beyond family and faith; Dub's green thumb finds fulfillment in tending to his cherished vegetable garden, a hobby that brings him both tranquility and a connection to nature's rhythms. Dub Music embodies a life dedicated to service, family, faith, and the simple joys found in nurturing both the spiritual and natural world around him.
Tommy Strom
Funeral Director
Tommy stands as a seasoned and dedicated Funeral Director, lending his expertise to the industry for many years while dedicating part of his time to our team. His residence in Lake Park alongside his cherished wife, Gwen, has been the cornerstone of their shared journey. Their family is a source of immense pride and joy, comprising a loving son and his wife along with two delightful granddaughters who brighten their lives.
Having served his country with honor and distinction, Tommy's commitment to the United States Army National Guard is a testament to his dedication to service. His professional career unfolded at Langdale Ford Company, where he spent 27 years in the parts department, contributing diligently until his well-deserved retirement.
Away from professional commitments, Tommy and Gwen find joy in traversing the winding back roads on their motorcycle, relishing the freedom and adventure that open up before them. Their shared love for exploration and the open road has been a source of countless cherished memories.
Tommy's heart for service extends beyond his professional and personal spheres. His membership in the Patriot Guard Riders exemplifies his commitment to honoring veterans, paying tribute, and showing respect to those who have served. Through this involvement, Tommy stands as a symbol of gratitude and support for veterans and their families, reflecting his unwavering dedication to their cause.
Tommy embodies a life richly lived, marked by service, dedication, family love, and an adventurous spirit. His multifaceted contributions to both the funeral service industry and his broader community serve as a testament to his enduring commitment to honor, compassion, and respect.
Bill Young
Funeral Assistant
Bill Young, a native son of Valdosta, continues to proudly call this vibrant city home, sharing his life's journey with his beloved wife, Ann. Their union has been blessed with a son, and they revel in the joy of three cherished grandchildren, adding richness to their lives.
A distinguished veteran of the United States Army, Bill dedicated a significant portion of his life in service to his country. His professional journey led him through a fulfilling career at the United States Postal Service, where he eventually retired, marking the culmination of his dedicated service.
However, retirement didn't signify a slowdown in life for Bill; rather, it opened the door to enriching experiences and quality time with his family. His passion for family time shines brightly as he savors moments spent with his loved ones. An avid traveler, Bill adores exploring the country, with a recent highlight being a memorable vacation to the Dominican Republic, where he had the pleasure of sharing this adventure with his entire family.
Beyond his personal pursuits, Bill extends his heart and compassion as a part-time funeral assistant at Music Funeral Services. His dedicated role involves providing comfort and care to families during their challenging times, reflecting his commitment to service and empathy.
Bill Young epitomizes a life well-lived—one filled with dedication to both country and community, a deep love for family, and a passion for creating lasting memories through travel and service to others. His presence at Music Funeral Services is a testament to his unwavering commitment to supporting and comforting families during their moments of need.
Corbin Young
Funeral Assistance
Corbin Young, a vibrant 17-year-old Junior at Lowndes High School, embodies a whirlwind of energy as an enthusiastic member of both the Track and Cross Country teams. With ambitions set on Valdosta State University post-graduation, Corbin finds solace and purpose in being a reassuring beacon for families amidst their toughest moments, likening it to being a ray of light in the darkest hours. Notably, he proudly traces his lineage to our esteemed part-time employee, Bill Young, his grandfather, while also revealing a soft spot for the serene charm of Helen, Georgia, as his ultimate getaway destination.
Aree Booker
Funeral Apprentice
Aree Booker, aged 22, hails from Englewood, NJ, and has made the transition to Valdosta in pursuit of his passion for football at Valdosta State University (VSU). Currently in his senior year, he is dedicated to his academic path, majoring in Bio Premed with aspirations to embark on a career in medicine while also pursuing a degree in mortuary science. Excelling both on and off the field, he serves as the formidable Linebacker for the VSU Blazers, actively participates in the Student Union, and contributes to the Biology Club. Scheduled to graduate in the forthcoming Spring of 2024, Aree Booker epitomizes the essence of a driven and multi-talented student-athlete.
Explore Our Locations
See where we are and find the place that best meet your needs.