Before the funeral...
There are numerous decisions to be made before the funeral service. As a result, it’s helpful to have the following information prior to your arrangement appointment.

Time of Service - When the desired time for the funeral has been determined and confirmed, we will notify our staff, the clergy member performing the service, the cemetery of your choice, and a church if the service will be held at one. Please note that cemetery requirements can affect the times available for services. Their hours vary, as well as their charges.

Visitation - After a loss, family and friends are sources of strength and support. The visitation will enable you to gather with loved ones and reflect upon the life that was lived. Since visitation customs vary from community to community, we will be happy to describe the types of visitation most common in this area. A visitation is optional and is a personal decision that should be made by you and those involved in planning the funeral service.

Burial Site - If a burial site has yet to be selected, we can help you by providing information on cemeteries and their specific requirements. Some cemeteries require visiting their property to sign authorization forms and make financial arrangements. Others require payment be made through the funeral home.

Clergy - If you know a clergy member you would like to conduct the funeral service, we’ll be glad to contact him or her on your behalf. If you don’t know a member of the clergy and would like to have one involved in the service, we’ll be happy to contact someone for you.

Pallbearers - Serving as a pallbearer is considered an honor and a true act of friendship. Usually those selected are people who were close to the deceased; such as children, grandchildren, nephews, or friends. Traditionally, six pallbearers are used, however, you may choose as many as you wish. Those selected should be physically capable of lifting without injuring themselves. Honorary pallbearer status can be given to those unable to lift or attend the service.

Music - Music is a traditional part of a funeral; however, it is optional. If you want music, you may choose whatever songs you wish. We’ll help in selecting the music if you would like our assistance.

Flowers - Usually families receive flowers from friends and relatives as a way of expressing their sympathy. However, you may want to provide additional floral arrangements. We advise doing this after selecting a casket. That way you’ll be able to choose the type and colors of the flowers to match the casket. As floral tributes arrive, we'll arrange them for the visitation and funeral service.

Clothes - The selection of clothing for burial is a personal decision. We suggest womens’ clothing have high necklines and long sleeves. You should include undergarments, as well as socks. Shoes aren’t usually worn. Mens’ clothing should also be long sleeved and have close-fitting collars. Although ties aren’t necessary, they can be worn by the deceased.

Jewelry - Jewelry can be worn during the visitation and the funeral service. You have to decide if you would like it to remain in place or be removed before burial.

Glasses - If glasses were worn by the deceased on a regular basis, they should be worn during the visitation and funeral service. Upon request, they may be removed before burial.

Photographs - For preparation purposes, it’s helpful for our associates to have a recent picture of the deceased. So we can effectively begin making the arrangements, we suggest bringing a photograph (which we’ll return), the clothing, any jewelry, and glasses (if appropriate) to your appointment.

Merchandise - All merchandise and services are itemized. This allows you to choose from a complete list of various prices. You’ll know exactly what each item costs, thus making it easier for you to select the merchandise and services desirable to you and your family.

During your arrangement appointment, we’ll discuss the different types of merchandise, such as caskets and outside containers. Many cemeteries require a rigid container designed to prevent the grave from settling. We’re prepared to answer any questions about quality, construction, or price of our merchandise. Our duty is to outline the options available to you. Please don’t hesitate to ask questions.

Personal Information - It’s necessary for us to have accurate biographical information. This information will be filed with the appropriate government agencies. In preparation, you should review the checklist provided for you. If you don’t know some of the answers, please try to find the information. It will help you, your family and our staff. Another way to help us serve you is to have the deceased's social security number and a copy of the discharge if the deceased was a veteran.