Common Questions
What is the purpose of a funeral?
A funeral service is a celebration of the life on earth that has now passed. A memorable funeral service is for the living, those who mourn. It is a time to express grief for the loss of the loved one; a time of remembrance; a time of sharing; a time to say goodbye.
Why prearrange a funeral?
Prearrangement is the planning of your funeral service. You can include payment of the service, but it is not required. Although, if you choose to pre-pay, it freezes the cost of all services and merchandise at today's prices--protecting your children and grandchildren from incurring additional costs.
By making prearrangements for yourself or a loved one and pre-funding the funeral, your family will not have to make important financial decisions during a time of much stress and grief.
By choosing to prearrange, your family will know your wishes and it will keep them from having to make some difficult decisions.
What is a funeral trust?
Funds which you use to pre-fund your funeral are deposited into an interest-bearing trust in your name. The interest earned will offset the increase in the cost of the funeral. (Money put in a funeral trust should remain in the account until your death. If withdrawals are made, the interest will not be sufficient to offset the inflation of the funeral service.) In case of a move or deciding on another funeral home, you may transfer the funds at or before the time of need.
What is an Irrevocable Form? Should I sign it?
An irrevocable form is legally binding. This form guarantees that the funds deposited into a funeral trust will not be able to be used for anything except the funeral expenses of the person named. The law does not require you to sign this form, but if the person is ever in need of Public Aid assistance, it will protect the money from being counted as an asset.
What is the cost of a funeral?
Costs incurred will depend on the type of service selected and choice of casket and outer burial container. Additional expenses may include burial plot (if not already owned), honorariums and flowers. We are happy to discuss various funeral options; you are under no obligation.
What is a vault?
A burial vault is a permanent enclosure to house the casket. It protects the casket from the elements as well as from the weight of heavy equipment overhead used in cemeteries. Vaults also help to keep the ground around the casket from sinking.
Do I have to purchase a vault?
Although state and federal laws do not require vaults, most cemeteries in the country require some type of out burial container.
Is cremation less expensive?
When cremation is chosen, there are several options that vary the price. But, yes, cremation is less expensive than traditional burial.
Cremation options: Direct cremation, with no visitation or service
Cremation with a visitation and service
The purchase or rental of a casket, visitation and service with the body present
Burial of cremains in a cemetery
Purchase of an urn
What personal information regarding the deceased will I need at the time of making arrrangements?
The following information is used to complete the death certificate and to write the obituary. We suggest that you complete and keep this information in a place that family members are aware of.
Name of deceased
Address
City
State
Zip Code
Social Security Number
Last Grade Completed
Date of Birth
Place of Birth
Father's Name
Mother's Name (Maiden)
Spouse
Date Married
Where Married
Sons, and their location
Daughters, and their location
Sisters, and their location
Brothers, and their location
Number of Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren
Preceded in Death By
Occupation
Military History
Society and Organization Memberships
Church Membership
Cemetery Plot
