History & Staff

We have years of experience caring for families, from all walks of life. Each family comes to us because they know we are leaders in our profession, dedicated to excellence in service, and have the highest integrity.

Our History

Our History

Type The House of Winston was founded by Mr. James W. Winston in 1974. He was exposed to the funeral industry by his father who was an insurance salesman.  Motivated by his desire to aid others at their time of need, he relocated from Texas to Los Angeles, California, with a dream to serve families in their darkest hours. 

After his passing in 1991, his beloved wife, Mary Louise, assumed the position as President/CEO. Also sharing Winston's desire to aide others, Mrs. Winston dedicated her life to servicing the community. She is currently active in organizations such as YMCA, NFDMA, and 100 Black Women in which she awards mortuary science students with scholarships to further their education in the funeral industry. 

House of Winston has opened its doors for the Los Angeles community for 40+ years to date. Because of our attention to detail we not only have served families from our local community, we have also been called upon to serve celebrities, including Whitney Houston and Caesar Chavez. 

In April 2014, Mrs. Winston, decided to retire.  Although retired, she is still very much a part of the life of the House of Winston.  

Mrs. Winston's Pastor and adopted grandson, Shane B. Scott, MDiv., along with his wife are now the proprietors of the House of Winston.  Under Reverend and Mrs. Scott's leadership the House of Winston has undergone major renovations and staff updates.  We are striving to be the number one family owned and operated firm in Southern California, our family, serving your family with "Quality, Compassion, & Dignity!"

House of Winston continues to be a jewel in the Los Angeles community.

Our Valued Staff

  • Dr. Sonya L. Simpson Lewis

    Dr. Sonya L. Simpson Lewis Vice President / General Manager

  • Stevie  Bradford

    Stevie Bradford Assistant Manager

  • Jonathon M. Polk

    Jonathon M. Polk Embalmer

  • Fannie Mae  Penrice

    Fannie Mae Penrice Insurance/Pre-Need Specialist

  • Mr. Henry  Norman

    Mr. Henry Norman Insurance/Pre-Need Specialist

  • Rev. Shawnn Boyd

    Rev. Shawnn Boyd Funeral Service Director

  • Mr.. Fraiser Cexil

    Mr.. Fraiser Cexil Funeral Service Director

  • Maxine Jones

    Maxine Jones Receptionist/ Caretaker

  • Sherry Carrington

    Sherry Carrington Receptionist/ Caretaker

  • Marie Theus

    Marie Theus Death Certificate Clerk/ Care Taker

  • Louise Duncan

    Louise Duncan

    Service Attendant/ Musician

  • Ms. Johnella Allen

    Ms. Johnella Allen Funeral Director

  • Meloney Turner

    Meloney Turner Administrative Assistant