In a city as rich in history as Long Branch, some institutions are more than just businesses — they are part of the community's fabric. Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home is one such place. Founded in 1870, the family-owned funeral home has provided care, comfort and guidance to local families for more than 150 years.
Now operated by Scott Boglioli and his parents, the funeral home remains deeply rooted in tradition, yet continues to evolve to meet the needs of modern families. “The funeral home was started by my mom’s uncle,” said Scott. “It’s stayed in the family ever since — through multiple generations — and the building itself has gone through renovations, but it’s always been here, in the same spot.”
Being local is more than just geography to the Boglioli family — it’s personal. “My parents still live in Long Branch. So does my brother. It’s where we grew up,” Scott said. “We’ve always felt it’s important to be here for the people we know — our neighbors, family friends, classmates — especially during a time when they need support the most.”
Scott and his family are fully involved in the day-to-day operations. “My parents and I are here every day,” he said. “We also have a staff of six, but my dad or I try to be at nearly every service. People take comfort in familiar faces, and we want to make sure they feel supported from start to finish.”
While funerals have long been associated with somber formality, Scott has noticed a meaningful shift in recent years. “People are living longer and healthier lives,” he said. “More and more, families want to focus on celebrating that full life instead of just mourning the loss. It doesn’t mean it’s not sad — it always is — but it can also be a joyful tribute.”
The COVID-19 pandemic presented one of the greatest challenges Scott has faced in his nearly 10 years in the industry. “We had to tell families they couldn’t hold services,” he said. “That was one of the hardest things. People wanted to come together, but at the time, there was just no way. Thankfully, we’ve returned to something closer to normal.”
One increasingly common practice is pre-arranged services. Woolley-Boglioli and their other location, Holmdel Funeral Home in Holmdel, have brought on staff specifically to help families with what’s often referred to as “pre-need” planning. “We really try to encourage it now,” Scott said. “It removes a huge emotional and financial burden from families later on.”
Pre-need planning allows individuals to make decisions in advance — from burial or cremation preferences to financial arrangements. “Even if you just make a few small decisions, it helps,” Scott explained. “And when the time comes, the family isn’t left scrambling to figure everything out.” The state of New Jersey established a trust where all funds go when you make prearrangements that provides updates on the funds as they gain interest over time.
Planning ahead also makes room for more personal touches. “Some people want themed memorials or specific songs played — things that reflect their personality,” he said. “When you make those decisions ahead of time, it ensures your story is told the way you want.”
For Scott and his family, the most rewarding part of the work is being there for others. “Most people don’t deal with this often — and that’s a good thing,” he said. “So when they do, we’re here to guide them through it with compassion, clarity and calm.”
Whether it’s assisting a longtime neighbor or helping a young family navigate a first loss, Woolley-Boglioli remains steadfast in its mission: to provide comfort, dignity and personalized care — just as it has since 1870.
“It’s about community,” Scott said. “Always has been, always will be.”
Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home
Address: 10 Morrell St, Long Branch, NJ 07740
Phone: (732) 229-0122
Website: wbhfh.com
“We’ve always felt it’s important to be here for the people we know — our neighbors, family friends, classmates — especially during a time when they need support the most.” - Scott Boglioli