History & Staff

We have years of experience caring for families, from all walks of life. Each family comes to us because they know we are leaders in our profession, dedicated to excellence in service, and have the highest integrity.  

Our History

Our History

In the fall of 1990, Grant Memorial Chapel was opened to meet the needs of the families of North Marshall County and the surrounding area. Since opening, Grant Memorial Chapel has offered a wide range of funeral services, both traditional and non-traditional, including cremations at the on-site crematory at our sister funeral home, Guntersville Memorial Chapel. Many things are the same from funeral home to funeral home, but we our services set us apart.  Our personal attention and professional service have been our foundation.  Our services and support do not end at the graveside. We continue to assist the family in whatever their particular situation requires.  

Our Valued Staff

Our caring and experienced staff members are always available to provide you with any assistance you may need.  Our staff is made up of Gene East, Michele Willmon,  Debra Sutphin, Joan Stapler, Roy Robertson, and Keith Randles.  At Grant Memorial Chapel, we believe in treating each family like our own family. 
  • Gene East

    Gene East, Area Manager

    Gene has more than 30 years of experience as a funeral director and embalmer, including 20-plus years of experience managing funeral homes and cemeteries. He graduated from Jefferson State in Birmingham with a degree in mortuary science.He is currently an area manager for Gamble Holding Company, serving as manager of their Guntersville (Carr Funeral Home), Grant (Grant Memorial Chapel) and Scottsboro (Scottsboro Funeral Home) locations.Gene, his wife Shana and their son, Jackson, reside in Arab. The East family attends Desperation Church of Arab. Gene is also an active member of the Guntersville Civitan Club and he serves as the president of Arab Youth Football League.

  • Michele Willmon

    Michele Willmon, Office Administrator

    Michele was born and raised in Morgan County, AL and is a 1985 graduate of A.P. Brewer High School. She is a 2012 graduate of Northeast Alabama Community College where she received her Associates Degree in Medical Assisting and Phlebotomy. Michele married Jeff Willmon in 1988 and live in the Swearengin community where they have attended Oak Grove Holiness Church for 30 years. Jeff and Michele have three children, the late Jaron Willmon, Jacob Willmon and Kaylon Willmon(Caleb) Williams; five grandchildren; Drake, Kolt, Oakley, Kynlee and Jaryn. She enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and cooking.Michele is the Office Administrator for Grant Memorial Chapel and has been with them on and off since 2004. She loves the town of Grant and the surrounding communities and helping others in their time of need.