Frequently Asked Questions
We have listed below many of the most frequently asked questions and the answers that we have provided. If you have other questions, call us. We will be happy to answer them.
What is the significance of a funeral service?
Ancient cultures used rituals and ceremonies to send a deceased person on his or her way to the afterlife. In contemporary society, we use the funeral service to honor the deceased and to celebrate that person’s life. The funeral service also gives the family of the deceased an opportunity to come together so that they can begin the process of adjusting to the loss of a loved one. This “closure” is essential for the healing process to begin.
What is embalming and is it necessary?
Embalming is a chemical process that temporarily maintains the physical appearance of the deceased’s body. If you are going to have a viewing, you will want the deceased to look as lifelike as possible. Embalming provides that appearance.
If you are not having a viewing, embalming is not necessary.
Where do I get a casket?
We maintain a selection of caskets on site so that the selection process is simple and uncomplicated.
What does cremation involve?
Cremation involves reducing the deceased’s body to ashes.
What happens to the cremated remains?
The ashes are placed in an urn selected by the family. Thereafter, the urn can be interred in a cemetery or a crypt, taken home, or used to hold the ashes until they can be scattered. Permission must be obtained to scatter ashes.
Is there a standard cremation container?
No. Like caskets, urns can be simple or ornate.
Are there legal aspects to cremation?
Yes. Before a body can be cremated, the attending physician or the medical examiner must sign a Death Certificate. Civil and medical authorities must also issue the required permits. In addition, the family must approve the cremation and sign the appropriate forms. Any objections to the cremation must be resolved before the cremation may occur.
Is the funeral service held before or after a body is cremated?
Either. If the ashes are to be interred (either buried or placed in a crypt), cremation typically occurs before the funeral service.
Costs and Arrangements
How much does a funeral cost?
The average price of a funeral ranges between $6,000 and $8,000. That cost includes a casket and an outer burial container, but does not include cemetery expenses.
Is everything included in the price I receive?
Absolutely. We will give you a complete list of all charges. You may select whatever options work for you.
Why is there a difference in the price of caskets?
Prices vary because the materials used to make caskets vary. The more expensive the material (bronze is more expensive than steel; mahogany is more expensive than pine), the more expensive the casket.
Can I make my funeral arrangements before I die?
Certainly. We can review all of your options with you and make ALL of your funeral arrangements at today’s prices. Preplanning and prepaying your funeral service spares your family the task of attending to these arrangements and expenses during an emotional time.
What happens if I prepay my funeral expenses and then move to another city or state?
We can transfer all of your arrangements nearly all of the funding arrangements that you have made with us to a funeral home in your new location.
Assistance
Can you help me with Social Security and VA benefits?
Of course. We are familiar with the forms and the submission process.
Where do I get copies of the Death Certificate?
From us.
Do I have to make all of the funeral arrangements myself?
No. You tell us what you want and we will do the work, make the arrangements, and make the funeral happen.