EAGLEVILLE PA - A new resting place for urns that hold the unclaimed cremated remains of deceased individuals, whose next-of-kin cannot be found, is being created by the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office.
The office, at 56 Eagleville Rd., is responsible for their care and disposition. County Coroner Dr. Janine Darby reported the project is the first facility of its kind at a Pennsylvania coroner’s office.
The 200-square-foot structure (rendering at top) is planned to be made of precast concrete. A ceremonial ground-breaking was held Monday (Oct. 26, 2026). Construction is expected to begin in coming weeks.
“As our Coroner's Office continues to evolve, our mission remains rooted in compassion, professionalism, and dignity,” Darby said during the ceremony. That includes “our responsibility to ensure that those entrusted to our care have a permanent and respectful place of rest,” she added.
“The measure of a community is how it treats people when they have no one else to advocate for them,” county Chief Operating Officer Lee Soltysiak noted. “This resting place reflects Montgomery County’s commitment to honoring every person with respect and compassion, regardless of their circumstances.”
Several members of the state general assembly representing county residents also supported the project, according to 150th District state Rep. Joe Webster, who attended the event. "Dr. Darby and her team are providing a reverent site for remembrance as a final honor,” he said. It “exemplifies the kindness and care we all want our own loved ones to receive."
Relatives identified after the urns are placed in the structure are able to claim the remains. Once completed, the site will also be accessible to members of the public who wish to pay their respects.
Photo provided by the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office