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    Making Change: Chardy Memorials

    In 1923, George T. Chardy, a Frenchman who trained in the art of stonemasonry in Italy, opened Chardy Memorials in Kennett Square. His work endures today, as does the family business that bears his name.

     

    After working for DuPont in Buenos Aires for many years, George’s son-in-law, Ken Roberts, Sr., returned to Kennett Square to manage Chardy’s. His son, Ken, who runs the business today, always knew he’d follow in his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps. He picked out the house in Kennett Square where he lives now when he was 16. After Ken graduated from college, RCA offered him a job. Some thought he was crazy to turn it down to work with his father at Chardy’s. Today, RCA is defunct and Chardy’s is in its ninety-sixth year. Ken’s wife Prissy also works in the office.

     

    Ken says Chardy’s has provided him many opportunities to give back to his community. He served on the Borough Council for 23 years, many of them as President, and helped bring Genesis and the YMCA to Kennett Square. Prissy, who co-founded the first girls’ softball league here, is also active with Anson B. Nixon Park and other committees.

    “When our clients are satisfied, their families will come back to Chardy’s generation after generation.”

    - Ken Roberts, Sr., son-in-law of George T. Chardy

    Chardy Memorials serves families at their most vulnerable moments with sensitivity and dignity. Listening to people’s wishes is important, Ken says, as is providing a completely tailored approach to celebrate the life of their loved one. “When our clients are satisfied, their families will come back to Chardy’s generation after generation.”

     

    “Quality and personal, timely service has been our mission for 96 years,” says Ken, “and through my daughters, son-in-law, and nephew this tradition will continue through a fourth generation of our family as we look forward to celebrating 100 years in business!”