About Us

Tommie Ann Wages Johnson, Rick Johnson, and Valerie J. Wages

In January 1949, the Tom M. Wages Funeral Home opened on the historic downtown square in Lawrenceville, Georgia, where it remained until 1963. The business outgrew the original facility, leading Tom M. Wages to build his first modern establishment, Wages Oak Lawn Chapel at the corner of Scenic Highway and Jackson Street in Lawrenceville. Several changes and additions occurred during a remodeling and expansion of the facility in 1973.

Groundbreaking ceremonies were held for the second location on Highway 78 West of Snellville, Georgia, in May 1984. The Snellville location currently serves as one of the most elegant funeral homes in Georgia.

In 1993 Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, LLC. once again proved to be the “leader in the area” opening Gwinnett County’s first Crematory. Loved ones no longer need to be transported miles away for cremation.  All services are handled on site, which provides a tremendous amount of comfort for families.  From the beginning we pledged to our clientele to never cremate for other funeral homes. While our competitors cremate for as many as 40 other facilities, we understand that your peace of mind is more important to us.

Throughout the years, the reputation of Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, LLC. as caring, friendly, and professional has become widely known throughout the state as well as the nation.  On November 19, 2005, Tom M. Wages, Sr., died at 81 years of age. He was truly one of the greatest funeral directors to have the honor of serving families. He continues to be greatly missed by his community and other funeral professionals.

With the death of Tom M. Wages, Sr., the businesses are now co-owned by his son-in-law and daughter, Rick and Tommie Ann Wages Johnson and oldest child and daughter, Valerie J. Wages, CFSP.  Rick Johnson has been with the firm since 1978 and is a seasoned funeral director with 29 years of experience.  He serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, LLC.  President, Valerie J. Wages, CFSP, returned to the business following a 15-year career as one of the premier funeral service educators in the profession.  Rick oversees operations at both locations with Alan H. Johnson, Location Manager for the Lawrenceville Chapel, 120 Scenic Highway, Lawrenceville, Georgia, and with Christopher S. Banks, Location Manager for the Snellville Chapel, 3705 Highway 78 West, Snellville, Georgia.  Valerie focuses on evaluating customer service to each family served by the Tom M. Wages staff of professionals.  Rick, Valerie, Chris, and Alan are all available upon request at either location to assist with arrangements during your time of need.

As the third generation of the Wages Family prepares to join our business we can truly say that we are proud to be "A Family Company"