Frequently Asked Questions

Throughout human history, people have gathered to acknowledge death. A funeral ceremony is the opportunity for everyone to come together to acknowledge the death, recognize the community's shared loss and share the burden of grief.

The NFDA states the national median cost of a funeral in 2012 was $7,045 (up to $8,343 with burial vault). The cost depends on specific services and products selected. Your funeral director will explain all options and work within your budget.

They represent three points on a spectrum of ceremonial formats. The funeral is typically the most expensive, especially considering casket cost. The cost of any format depends entirely on choices made during the arrangement conference.

People who would want to be there. Guests demonstrate support for the bereaved family and tend to their own sorrow. Service details are usually published in the newspaper or online. Use common sense and don't invite more people than the venue can handle.

Flowers create warmth and beauty, adding dignity and consolation to the service. They serve as a visual expression of sympathy, love, respect, and support.

The body is temporarily preserved by embalming, refrigeration, or both. It is washed, dressed and groomed, then placed in the chosen casket for viewing. Contact us for more details.

It's a way of confirming the death and an opportunity to say goodbyes. It can be cathartic — a time to quietly share, let go of anger or resentment, and come to terms with the death.

Be honest and aware. Let them know what to expect — that people may cry. Let them ask questions, reassure them you'll be beside them. Never force them to go, and always give them the chance to change their mind.

A trained professional who helps create a ceremony reflecting beliefs, philosophy, and personality. Especially valuable when a family has no religious affiliations. Contact us for more details.

It depends on the service. No two end-of-life ceremonies are the same length or cover the same emotional ground.

Not anymore. Today things are less formal, and it's not uncommon for families to ask guests to avoid black. Contact us with additional questions about funeral attire or etiquette.