FAQ
-
WHAT IS A FUNERAL SERVICE?
Every funeral is different.
Religious or cultural traditions typically influence funeral services and vary by personal preference. They can be public or private, simple or intricate, open or closed casketed, burials or cremations, and can be influenced by religion or not.
They provide an opportunity for the loved ones of a person who has passed to gather and celebrate their life. They offer a safe space and a support system for the bereaved while honoring the life of a loved one. Regardless of the many differences in funeral services, they all offer a chance to say goodbye.
-
WHAT IS A FUNERAL ARRANGEMENT?
A funeral arrangement is an appointment where you meet with a funeral counselor or a funeral director.
They will answer any questions you may have, discuss your preferences, and guide you through the available options. Whether you're interested in traditional burial services, cremations, or pre-planning, they’re there to help you make informed decisions that reflect your wishes and those of your loved one.
-
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO THE FUNERAL ARRANGEMENT APPOINTMENT?
We ask that you bring the following information to your appointment:
Your loved one’s personal information, including:
Legal full name*, Home address, Social Security number*, Date and state of birth*, Father’s name and place of birth* (state/county), Mother’s full maiden name and place of birth* (state/county), Photo ID, A recent color picture of your loved one, Names/relationships of survivors, Physician’s information (please include phone number).
We will also need:
Photo ID (Next of Kin), Cemetery information (please include address & phone number), Clergy/place of worship information (please include address & phone number), Any pre-existing arrangements/insurance policy information, Military discharge papers (DD-214),. *Please note that the state of California requires these items to complete the Death Certificate
-
DO FUNERALS ONLY TAKE PLACE IN CHURCHES?
You can have a funeral service:
- At a cemetery
- In a park
- At the beach
- In your home
- At a funeral home
- In a church
A funeral can be held wherever you choose.
-
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE COST OF A FUNERAL?
The national median cost for a traditional funeral in 2021, which includes a viewing, is approximately $7,848 (according to the National Funeral Directors Association).
-
WHAT IS CREMATION?
Cremation is a respectful process that reduces the body to ashes using heat. Many families find this option to be a meaningful and flexible choice, allowing for different types of memorials and final resting places.
-
HOW LONG DOES THE ACTUAL CREMATION TAKE?
The cremation process typically takes two to three hours. It depends on factors such as the size of the individual and the type of cremation equipment being used.
-
IF SOMEONE IS CREMATED, CAN THEY STILL HAVE A FUNERAL SERVICE?
A funeral service can be held before or after cremation. You can choose to have a viewing beforehand or have an urn present after the cremation. Some people choose to have a memorial a few months after cremation.
-
WHAT IS A PRE-PLANNED FUNERAL ARRANGEMENT?
A pre-planned arrangement can be made by an individual for a family member or for themselves and ensures that future arrangements are made exactly the way they want them. When pre-planning, you decide what kind of burial you want, the location of your burial plot, what kind of cemetery committal service you would like, and all of the funeral arrangement details, including the casket and etc., without prepayment or funding.
-
WHAT IS A PRE-FUNDED FUNERAL ARRANGEMENT?
A pre-funded arrangement is made the same way a pre-planned arrangement is, except the plan is paid for prior to the planner's passing. Pre-funding services lets you choose how you want to be remembered without worrying about anyone else paying the bill.