Our Story
A family caring for families since 1976
Sierra Memorial Gardens is a family-owned and operated facility, proudly serving Northern Nevada for more than five decades.
The history behind our business
Established in 1976, Sierra Memorial Gardens has grown alongside Northern Nevada while never losing the personal touch of a family-run business. We hold all state licenses and certificates, and take pride in offering a variety of affordable burial and cremation options — each one a lasting expression of affection for your loved one.
As a non-denominational facility, we reflect the diversity of our region, welcoming people of every faith, culture, and heritage to a peaceful, desert-themed resting place.
Founded by U.S. Navy veteran John Lawton fifty years ago, we are in our second generation of service to Northern Nevada families, with John’s son Drew carrying on his father’s legacy into the 21st century.
ICCFA Member
Intl. Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Assn.
Chamber of Commerce
Reno–Sparks community member
Reno Rotary
Active local service organization
Fully Licensed
All state licenses & certificates
The people who care for our grounds
J. Drew Lawton
Owner
Drew was born and raised in Reno and has been immersed in every aspect of the business since he was able to walk. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, hiking, boating, and kite surfing. Drew and his wife are proud parents of two young children.
Drew and his staff are happy to answer any questions you may have and help you make a plan for your needs. They offer individual attention so you have lasting peace of mind that every need — for you and your loved one — is met, bringing comfort to families during one of life's most difficult times.
Zak Basch
Operations
Zak joined Sierra Memorial Gardens after a 20-year career in the sports industry. He manages day-to-day operations at the cemetery, assists with pre-planning and at-need burials, and runs Sierra Headstone, our memorial and monument division.
Zak enjoys traveling, live music, volunteering in the local food community, and supporting the athletics program at his alma mater, the University of Nevada. He and his partner Jane live in northwest Reno with their beloved cat, Boris.
Jim Knight
Grounds
An experienced equipment operator, Jim manages the 8+ acres on which Sierra Memorial Gardens sits. Jim is an invaluable jack-of-all-trades who can build, fix, and operate just about anything.
A native of Elk Grove, Calif., Jim is semi-retired from a career as a heavy equipment operator, snow groomer, and sound tech for a number of rock 'n roll bands. He lives in North Reno with his tuxedo cat, Buddy.
Community
Honored to give back to our neighbors
Sierra Memorial Gardens supports our community through financial contributions and hands-on involvement — organizing youth community service events with the Boy Scouts of America and volunteering for non-profits across the Reno–Sparks area. We take pride in caring for our community.