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Common Questions

We have provided some of the answers to the common questions relating to a funeral, a funeral service and funeral homes. If you have further questions related to funerals, please contact us.

What is a funeral?

A funeral is a ceremony of proven worth and value for those who mourn. It provides an opportunity for the survivors and others who share their loss to express their love, respect, and grief. Through the funeral, the bereaved take the first step towards emotional adjustment to their loss.

What type of service should I have?

The type of service conducted for the deceased is specified by the family. The service is usually held at a place of worship or at the funeral home. The service may vary in ritual according to religious denomination or the wishes of the family. The presence of friends at this time is an acknowledgment of friendship and support. A private service is by invitation only where selected relatives and a few close friends attend the funeral service. A memorial service is usually a service without the body present and can vary in ceremony and procedures according to the family's community and religious affiliations.

Can I personalize my funeral?

Absolutely. In fact, we recommend it. After all, the funeral is a celebration of life. We are happy to discuss all options to ensure your funeral is tailored to your wishes. It may be personalized in many unique ways. Contact us to explore the possibilities.

Why should we have a public viewing?

There are many reasons to view the deceased. It is part of many cultural and ethnic traditions, and many grief specialists believe that viewing aids the grief process by helping the bereaved recognize the reality of death. Viewing is even encouraged for children, as long as it is their desire to do so, and the process is explained to them.

Why do we need an obituary notice?

You don't need to have an obituary. However, obituaries are helpful to friends and the community. They announce the death, the type of service to be held, and the locations of the various events. A notice can be placed in a local newspaper or on the Internet.

What do funeral directors do?

Funeral directors are both caregivers and administrators. In their administrative duties, they make the arrangements for transportation of the body, complete all necessary paperwork, and carry out the wishes of the family regarding the funeral and final disposition of the body.

As caregivers, funeral directors are listeners, advisors and supporters. They have experience assisting the bereaved in coping with death. Funeral directors are trained to answer questions about grief, recognize when a person is having difficulty coping, and recommend sources for professional help. Funeral directors also link survivors with support groups at the funeral home or within the community.

What should I do if a death occurs in the middle of the night or on the weekend?

We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All you need to do is place a call to us at 440.942.1122. If you request immediate assistance, one of our professionals will be there within the hour. If you wish, you can also spend a short time with the deceased to say good bye. When you're ready, we will come.

What should I do if a death occurs away from home?

We can assist you if a death occurs anywhere around the globe. Contact your hometown funeral director immediately. He will assume responsibility and coordinate the arrangements for the return of the deceased. He may engage the services of a funeral director in the place of death who will act as their agent.

What is the purpose of embalming?

Embalming sanitizes and preserves the body, slows the decomposition process, and enhances the appearance of a body disfigured by traumatic death or illness. It makes it possible to lengthen the time between death and the final disposition, thus allowing family members time to arrange and participate in the type of service most comforting to them. Embalming the body enables mourners to view the deceased if they wish. The emotional benefits of viewing the deceased are enormous, particularly to those having difficulty dealing with the death.

Is embalming mandatory under the law?

No. But, the factors of time, health, and possible legal requirements might make embalming either appropriate or necessary. Please note that embalming may be required if the deceased is being transported by air to another country where local laws need to be observed.

Is cremation a substitute for a funeral?

No. Cremation is an alternative to earth burial or entombment for the body's final disposition and often follows a traditional funeral service. We can assist you with the necessary information for a funeral with a cremation followed by a memorial service.

Can I have a visitation and a funeral if cremation is chosen?

Yes. Cremation does not preclude you from having a visitation period and a funeral service. Cremation is simply one option for final disposition of the body.