About James A. McAlister Funerals & Cremation
Our History
In 1997, Jimmy decided to open his own funeral home business in the Charleston suburb of West Ashley, next to a piece of land once owned by his grandfather James McAlister. The new funeral home resides in a 10,500-square-foot facility that used to house the AT&T Communications Office. Jimmy notes it was indeed fortunate to locate an existing building of that size with ample parking for 150. This building includes the latest video and audio technology, a spacious and elegant lobby, a stately chapel that seats 275 comfortably, and beautifully appointed staterooms.
But even more important than a beautifully appointed funeral home is the service it provides a family following the loss of their loved one. As Jimmy says, “We are dedicated to doing everything possible to help you and your family through a time of bereavement and loss. Your peace of mind is our greatest concern. We understand the importance of family and the comfort of tradition in times of loss.”
Independently owned and operated since its founding in 1997, James A. McAlister Funerals & Cremation represents an entirely new commitment to our growing Charleston community. It's our commitment to be “Always There” with personalized service and attention to detail, serving our families one at a time.
James A. “Jimmy” McAlister III, a fourth generation Funeral Director and Embalmer, founded James A. McAlister Funerals & Cremation in 1997. Jimmy’s great-grandfather, John McAlister, was one of the first licensed embalmers in South Carolina, who began his funeral home in the late 1800s. Although a strong legacy of funeral service existed, Jimmy instead chose a career in finance following his graduation from the University of South Carolina. But, as Jimmy explains, “I had grown up in the funeral home business and finally decided I wanted to be a funeral director.”
Carol Buchanan was our Administrative Assistant and worked in the funeral profession in Charleston from 1976 until she passed away unexpectedly on July 30, 2011.
She assisted the families we serve with help on where to go and what to do after the funeral, and she was instrumental in the founding and success of the James A. McAlister Funeral Home. She touched countless lives in her years with us, and she will always be remembered for her caring spirit and willingness to go out of her way and go the extra mile to help others. She was part of our family, and we miss her deeply.
Carol was a member and Eucharistic Minister of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. She was the mother of Gray M. Buchanan and the late Rev. Scott J.A. Buchanan, as well as a proud grandmother to Zachary and Allyson Buchanan.
