FAQs
We’ve provided a list of answers to questions we frequently receive regarding our services and other activities related to funerals. If you don't see the answer to your question here, feel free to contact us. We'd be happy to give you more information and clarify any of your concerns.
What do I do when a death occurs while out of town or away from home?
What do I do when a death occurs while out of town or away from home?
It’s important that you contact the local medical authorities first (as well as the police, if appropriate), and then make sure to give us a call as soon as possible. We will work with you to make the necessary arrangements to get you and your loved one back home as quickly and easily as possible. Calling us will also help you to avoid duplication of efforts and fees.
What do funeral directors do?
What do funeral directors do?
A funeral director is a licensed professional who specializes in all aspects of funerals and related services. They provide support to the family, guide the arrangement of visitations and funeral ceremonies, prepare the deceased according to the family’s wishes, and ensure that everything goes according to plan. They also arrange for the removal and transportation of the deceased throughout the process and assist families with any legal or insurance-related paperwork they might need to file. They’re experienced at recognizing when an individual is having an extremely difficult time coping with a loss and can provide extra support and recommendations for professional help if needed.
Can I personalize my service?
Can I personalize my service?
Absolutely! Our staff has years of experience getting to know families and incorporating their loved one’s hobbies, activities, interests, and unique requests into meaningful and memorable services. Don’t hesitate to make a request because you think it might be too “out there” — we’re honored to work with you to create a service that truly reflects and celebrates your loved one’s individual life journey.
Can I still have viewing and funeral services with cremation?
Can I still have viewing and funeral services with cremation?
Definitely! In fact, we encourage you to do so. Choosing cremation only indicates how you’d like to care for your loved one after the service and doesn’t exclude you from celebrating and honoring their life in any way. Whether you’d like to arrange a funeral service before cremation, or wait and hold the service after the cremation, we’re happy to help you design a meaningful service to accompany the cremation.
Why have a viewing?
Why have a viewing?
A viewing — also known as a visitation, wake, or calling hours — can involve an open or closed casket, and is seen as a vital part of the grieving process. Having their loved one present often helps family and friends to accept the reality of their loss, especially for those who may not have seen him or her in a while. The opportunity to come to terms with the death and say a final farewell is an important step on the road to healing.
Can we have a viewing if my loved one has donated organs or had an autopsy?
Can we have a viewing if my loved one has donated organs or had an autopsy?
Yes. Autopsies and organ donation do not affect your ability to have an open-casket viewing.
Should I bring my children to the funeral service?
Should I bring my children to the funeral service?
We believe it is important for children to be allowed to share in this important ritual. You may wish to prepare young children by explaining what they will experience at a visitation or funeral. We have brochures and books available with suggestions for explaining death to children, so please let us know if you have a need for these materials. Our general advice is to use honest, simple, age-appropriate language.
What is the purpose of embalming?
What is the purpose of embalming?
If you choose to have a public viewing, embalming may be required. Embalming is a process used to sanitize and temporarily preserve the body of a person who has passed away. It also can enhance the appearance of a person that has suffered damage from an accident or illness.
Is embalming required by law?
Is embalming required by law?
No. Except in rare circumstances, embalming is not required by law. However, embalming is necessary if you would like to arrange a public viewing.
What is a columbarium?
What is a columbarium?
A columbarium is a place for the interment of urns containing cremated remains. They’re often located in mausoleums, chapels, or memorial gardens, and contain numerous small compartments, or niches, designed to hold urns.
What can I do to help the bereaved after services?
What can I do to help the bereaved after services?
The grieving process doesn’t end with the funeral, and it will take time for the bereaved to heal. The family will need your support for months to come, so make sure to check in on a regular basis. Drop a note, make a phone call, and continue to invite them when you make social plans; they’ll let you know if and when they are ready to participate. Reach out to the family on special occasions, like birthdays or anniversaries, especially during the first year following their loss.
What is a burial vault?
What is a burial vault?
The burial vault or outer burial container protects the casket from the elements when burial takes place at the cemetery. Vaults are made of reinforced concrete so the earth will not collapse on the casket. Many cemeteries require the use of outer burial containers to reduce the ongoing maintenance of refilling sunken spots. Burial vaults are constructed with varying designs, so you may select basic or extensive protection depending on your wishes.