What is the significance of a funeral service?

From the beginning of recorded history, societies have honored those who died with a traditional ceremony. According to beliefs at that time, the purpose of the ritual was to send the deceased on his or her journey into the afterlife.

Today, however, many experts agree that the benefits of a service are for those who are left behind after a death. A "closure" of sorts must occur to help survivors adjust to their loss and recognize that a death has occurred. A funeral service provides the opportunity for friends and family to celebrate the life that was lived and allow the healing process to begin.

How much does a funeral cost?

Funeral costs vary depending on the type of service selected. There are two types of costs associated with a funeral: (1) services provided by the funeral home and (2) merchandise such as a casket or urn.

Is everything included in the price given to me by the funeral home?

All charges involving the funeral home's services and merchandise are available from our professional staff. We will provide a general price list with all charges.

Can I make my funeral arrangements before I die?

Yes, today the prearrangement of funerals is becoming more common. Prearranging will provide you with more time to review your options and give you a choice in your own funeral service. At Pellerin Funeral Home, our licensed funeral directors are available to assist you with your prearrangement needs.

How many types of caskets exist, and why are some more expensive than others?

Caskets are made of either metal (bronze, copper or steel) or wood. Prices vary, depending on the exterior and interior materials used. Bronze, a semiprecious metal, is more expensive than steel. Mahogany, a rare hardwood, is more expensive than the readily available softwood pine.

What is embalming and is it necessary before services are held?

Embalming is the temporary preservation of a deceased's remains. It is not required by law, but is common practice when a viewing is planned.

Can a funeral home assist me with social security benefits?

Yes, Pellerin funeral home will complete the necessary social security form to begin the benefits process.

What is involved in the cremation process?

Before cremation occurs, the death certificate must be completed and signed by the attending physician or medical examiner, and all civil and medical authorities must have issued all required permits. In addition, necessary authorizations to cremate must be obtained from the next of kin or authorizing person and no objections to the cremation can be raised. The cremation then takes place and the cremated remains are placed in the designated container or urn selected for final disposition.

Are special cremation containers and caskets available?

Pellerin Funeral Home offers a wide variety of cremation containers and caskets to meet each family's needs.

Are the services held before or after cremation?

Services are held at the discretion of the family. Many choose to have a traditional service first, followed by the cremation.

What happens to the cremated remains?

There are many options to consider with a cremation. A family can choose to bury the remains in a cemetery, store and display them at home in an urn or scatter them in a place special to the deceased. It is advisable to check local restrictions on scattering remains on public property and obtain permission for private property.

I have already made prearrangments. What if I move or want to use another funeral home?

By making arrangements in advance, you were able to express your own wishes and relieve this emotional burden from your family. Usually, these arrangements can be reestablished with another funeral home and nearly all funding vehicles are transferable by the owner.