We know that planning a memorial for someone isn’t easy. Unfortunately, it’s a reality that we all must face at some point in our lives. At Arlington Mortuary, we understand how difficult the process is, and it’s our goal to help you make final decisions in the easiest, most educated way possible. Planning a funeral in advance is the best possible option, but not everyone makes these plans early. To help you understand the available options, we’ve answered a few of the most common questions we receive.
Funeral Or Cremation? Which One Is The Right Choice?
Making a decision about burial or cremation is an extremely personal choice, which should be guided by your religious or cultural perspectives and your budget. While we can’t make that choice for you, we can certainly give you the information you need to make an informed decision.
Simply put, there are many options available to you. You can even have both services if you desire. Many do not realize that you can have a funeral with (or without) a viewing followed by cremation services. Or, you can have a simple cremation service with no funeral or memorial.
What About The Cost?
Cost is a factor for most people during this time. Once you have considered religious views and the final wishes of the deceased and/or the family involved, the remaining decisions to be made revolve around cost. There are many options available to you, and the total cost will vary depending on which options you choose.
Here are a few examples:
With in ground burial, a funeral and viewing can be planned followed by burial at the cemetery of your choosing. But there is more cost associated with this decision, as you will need to purchase a casket and pay for the memorial service. With a simple cremation, there is no casket or in ground burial charges to consider. However, you are not limited to simple cremation services alone. You could plan a memorial service with (or without) a viewing followed by cremation after. Or, after the cremation service is complete, family and friends of the deceased can choose a venue to hold a memorial ceremony. Choosing to keep the ashes in an urn for scattering at a later date at an agreed upon location is also an option.
With all of these decisions and costs to consider, it is no surprise that the remaining friends and family are overwhelmed. Pre-planning your own funeral is what we recommend to reduce the stress level for those left behind, but we understand that life is unpredictable.
How Do I Start the Planning Process?
If you’re faced with planning the funeral of a friend or loved one, or if you’d like to begin pre-planning your own service, our staff will go over all of the options available to you with compassion and care. At arlingtonmortuary.com, we understand that emotions are running high during this time. It’s our job to guide you in the best way possible. If you have more questions, or need to schedule some time with us, please contact us through this webpage by clicking “contact” or call us directly at 1-800-275-4648.