In the 1920s, RJF purchased mines in Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania about 30 miles from the company's home in Hagerstown, MD. Funkhouser Company, produced granules to coat asphalt roofing shingles.

He, in partnership with accountant brother, Elmer, would acquire, organize, or become president of a number of companies, including the Maryland Glass Sand Co., Round Top Glass Sand Co., Blue Mountain Stone Co., Green Roofing Stone Co., Tennessee Rock Products Co., Sure Foot Heel Co., Martin Veneer Co., Victor Mica Co.and Har-Tru Corp.