Frequently Asked Questions

It is common to have questions about the funeral process. This section answers some commonly asked questions to help make this process easier for you. If additional questions arise, please feel free to contact us directly at the funeral home.

What is a funeral?
A funeral is a ceremony for a deceased person, prior to burial or cremation.  A funeral gives the opportunity for family and friends of the deceased to gather and mourn the passing of their loved one, to share cherished memories, and to celebrate their life.  A funeral is a vital first step in helping the bereaved heal after the loss of someone special.

What type of service should I have?
If no pre-arrangements have been made, the type of service is entirely up to you, but it is best to consider what the deceased may have wanted.  Services are usually held at a funeral home or a place of worship.  There are a wealth of different services, ranging from traditional religious or military services, to something a little more unique.  Our funeral directors are more than happy to work with you to figure out what would be the most appropriate.

Can I personalize a funeral?
Of course you can! In fact, more and more people are opting for non-traditional, personalized services.  There is no one way to celebrate somebody’s life. Let the funeral director know exactly what your desires are and they will honor your wishes.

Who are funeral directors and what do they do?
Funeral directors are in charge of all the logistics following a death.  They complete all the necessary paperwork, make arrangements for the transportation of the body, and put into action the choices made by the family in regards to the funeral service and the final resting place of the body.  Beyond all of this, funeral directors are there to provide emotional support and personal guidance in the wake of a loss.

What happens if the death occurs in the middle of the night or on the weekend?
We are here to help. Funeral directors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year.

What is embalming and what purpose does it serve?
Embalming sanitizes and preserves the body. It also slows down the decomposition process and enhances the appearance of a body impacted by a traumatic death or illness.  Embalming gives time to the family of the deceased to arrange a service, and allows for the possibility of an open-casket viewing.

Do I need to have an embalming?
No. In fact, some religions forbid embalming. Some countries do require embalming by law in order for remains to leave or enter the country.  If it is not against your religious custom, embalming is generally recommended, especially if there is an extended gap between death and burial or cremation.