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About Us

The Homelani Difference

Our Purpose

Since 1871, we have been honored to deliver healing experiences to the Hilo community. We exist to serve the unique needs of every family. Learn our story. Lean on us. And let our expertise lead you through the best experience possible.

Words we live by
respect
empathy
honor
patience
comfort
integrity
collaborative
serenity
attention to every detail
support
courage
healing experiences
professionalism
experience
compassion
accountability
knowledge
calm
respect
empathy
honor
patience
comfort
integrity
collaborative
serenity
attention to every detail
support
courage
healing experiences
professionalism
experience
compassion
accountability
knowledge
calm
calm
knowledge
accountability
compassion
experience
professionalism
healing experiences
courage
support
attention to every detail
serenity
collaborative
integrity
comfort
patience
honor
empathy
respect
calm
knowledge
accountability
compassion
experience
professionalism
healing experiences
courage
support
attention to every detail
serenity
collaborative
integrity
comfort
patience
honor
empathy
respect
Our Family is here for yours

Our pledge

What we stand for

We’re here to give you care and comfort as we help guide you through the planning journey.

Care
We treat you and your loved one as if you were our part of our own family, providing the support and serenity you need.
Comfort
We go the extra mile to ensure that families are given the compassion they so desperately need during this time.
Plan
We are your trusted guide in times of immediate need, as well as when you're ready to make plans for the future.
History & Staff

Our Story

Learn the legacy

We've learned a lot about caring for families over the years. We realize that we aren't just caring for a loved one, but the entire family. People come to us during their most difficult times, and we respond with kindness, understanding and expertise. Our goal is to make everyone feel at home as we work with them to create a memorable service in honor of a beautiful life.

A heavenly home

Established in 1871 as a burial place, Homelani was originally called Halai Hill Cemetery. It was not until 1923 that the name was changed to Homelani, meaning "Heavenly Home" in Hawaiian.

A burial place for Hilo

In 1870, the people of the First Foreign Church in Hilo decided it was important to own a burial place for the foreign population of Hilo. They found a desirable location situated on Ponahawai and contacted the owners, Mr. and Mrs. Pitman. Through various correspondence and arrangements, the church secured possession of the land on April 25, 1871. The name "Halai Hill Cemetery" was given to their new found place.

“Homelani”

The name Homelani was officially adopted by the Trustees in 1923. On her dying bed in 1884, the wife of the former Governor Kipi whispered "Homelani" (Heavenly Home) when asked where she would like to be buried. She was referring to the Halai Hill Cemetery. From then on, the cemetery was popularly known as "Homelani," thus influencing the name change.

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Homelani by the numbers

14K+

Legacies Honored

151

Years in Business

780K+

Moments Remembered

Our team

Meet our amazing staff

We're members of the local community who have many years of experience caring for families from all backgrounds and all walks of life. Families know they can count on us to provide them the comfort they need when they need it most.

Edna  Russell

Edna Russell

Managing Partner, Family Service

Marlene  Eleneki

Marlene Eleneki

Cemetery Office Manager

John Andrade

John Andrade

Grounds Supervisor

Locations

Explore

Our Locations
Why Us

We illuminate paths to peace with personalized ceremonies and memorial tributes that honor your loved one.

Memorable Tributes
Full-Service Arrangements
We proudly provide both funeral and cemetery arrangements to make the process seamless and customized to your needs.
Online Funerals
We've adapted our services to make it easier for friends and family to participate from home. Please call us at (808) 657-3257 talk through your options.
24/7/365 Care
For generations we have stood by our commitment to caring for our community. We're here for you anytime you need us.
Virtual Appointments
All arrangements can now be made remotely. We'll work together however you feel comfortable, whether it's by phone, video conference or email.
Testimonials

What Families Are Saying

Real Stories from Real People

Josh and Porscha were great! Very respectful, caring and informative. I trusted them with my mom and felt comfortable! Thank you so much your both wonderful!❤️

Author: Maycie Kirkpatrick rated with 5 stars

News & Events

Happening at Homelani
Careers

Join us

We're hiring

We offer a healthy work/life balance and invite ideas and innovation. Homelani Memorial Park and Crematory is where our team members' purpose and passion unite.

Why Plan Ahead?

Plan for the future, today.
By planning your funeral, you can make sure your life is celebrated the way you want, and give your loved ones the peace-of-mind they need when the time comes.