• What do Funeral Directors do?
Funeral Directors are care givers and facilitators.   They assist families in every aspect of caring for a deceased loved one from transporting the deceased to implementing the families’ wishes for a funeral and the final disposition, and from answering questions to completing required paperwork. They offer not only support and advice but also experience and professionalism in helping families cope with death.  Even more, funeral directors honor those who have died by showing dignified treatment and proper respect of the bodies entrusted to their care.

• Why a funeral?
Mankind has always had an emotional need to cope with the loss of a loved one. In fact, anthropologists have found evidence of the “proper burial” predating written histories.  A funeral is a time for people to share their loss with friends and family and to honor the memory of their loved one.

• What is the purpose of embalming?
The purpose of embalming is to sanitize the body and to preserve it, primarily for viewing.  Furthermore it is our belief that this process endows a higher level of care for a person’s loved one, and we take great pride in the dignified manner with which we provide this service to our families.  Embalming is not required for all service choices.

• Is cremation a substitute for a funeral?
No. Cremation is an alternative to an earth burial as a form of final disposition. The notion of this process being a substitute for a funeral is a common misconception.  

• Can I still have viewing or a funeral with cremation?
Yes.  Often viewing and funeral services precede the cremation process.

• What should I do if a death occurs away from home?
It has been our experience that families who contact us at the time of death (no matter where) are served more conveniently and expeditiously.  Even simply making us aware of the anticipated death of a loved one, who is away from home, will also allow us to serve you better.

• What will help me with the loss of a loved one?
Share your feelings with friends and family. As much as possible participate in the planning of a service that is personal and a reflection of the life of the deceased.  In addition, there are grief counselors available at a variety of community and health services.  Your funeral director can assist in recommending the appropriate group for your needs.

• What is pre-planning?
The primary benefit to pre-planning your funeral is peace of mind and security for both you and your loved ones.
o You select exactly the type of service you prefer, detailing your personal wishes.
o You address the issues in as stress-free an atmosphere as possible without the urgency surrounding a death.
o You reduce the confusion and emotional burdens of decision-making for family members.
o If pre-paying, you eliminate the financial responsibility that might be incurred by other family members.
o Should an individual require institutionalization, prepaid contracts make the process easier and the funds are exempt from the inventory of tangible assets.