What purpose does a funeral serve? It is the customary way to recognize death and its finality. Funerals are recognized rituals for the living to show respect for the dead and to help survivors begin the grieving process. What do funeral directors do? Funeral directors are caregivers and administrators. They make the arrangements for transportation of the body, complete all necessary paperwork, and implement the choices made by the family regarding the funeral and final disposition of the body. 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 of professional help. Funeral directors also link survivors with support groups at the funeral home or in the community. Why have a public viewing? Viewing is part of many cultural and ethnic traditions. Many grief specialists believe that viewing aids the grief process by helping the bereaved recognize the reality of death. What is the purpose of embalming? Embalming is the temporary preservation and sanitation of a deceased's remains. Embalming is not required by State law, but is necessary when a viewing is planned. It may also be required when the deceased is to be transported from one state to another state by a common carrier. Why are funerals so expensive? When compared to other major life cycle events, like births and weddings, funerals are not expensive. A wedding costs at least three times as much; but because it is a happy event, wedding costs are rarely criticized. A funeral home is a 24-hour, labor-intensive business, with extensive facilities (viewing rooms, chapels, limousines, hearses, etc.), these expenses must be factored into the cost of a funeral. Moreover, the cost of a funeral includes not only merchandise, like caskets, but the services of a funeral director in making arrangements; filing appropriate forms; dealing with doctors, ministers, florists, newspapers and others; and seeing to all the necessary details. Contrary to popular belief, funeral homes are largely family-owned with a modest profit margin. Can I make funeral arrangements before I die? Yes. Today, prearranging and prepayment of funerals are becoming more common. It not only relieves loved ones of the stress of having to make difficult decisions at an emotional time, but it also allows you to insure that your personal wishes are carried out. Furthermore, you can guarantee the cost of your funeral and guard against funeral cost increases by prearranging. What should I do if the death occurs in the middle of the night or on the weekend? Most Funeral Directors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If a loved one dies out of state, can the local Funeral Home still help? Yes, they can assist you with out-of-state arrangements, either to transfer the remains to another state or from another state. Can I have a funeral or a viewing if I want cremation? Yes, viewing can precede the actual cremation. Your Funeral Home can assist you with the necessary information for a funeral with a cremation following or a memorial service.