Funeral Terms

This section of our website will deal with an ever-evolving content of funeral and related issues. This area will soon be fully searchable and we hope will contain answers to any and all questions or concerns you might have.

We believe that a better understanding of what is involved in the funeral process and the options available, will allow you to make a much more informed decision saving both confusion and compounded grief at the time of a loss.

Embalming

Embalming and other types of preservation have been recorded in history as far back as the Egyptians. Back in those days, only the wealthy were embalmed, or "mummified", as it was known then.

Burial

"Disposition" is the term used by the funeral industry to describe the final handling of the deceased's remains.

Cremation

Decomposition of the body in the earth (after burial) is the slow oxidation of the body tissues. Cremation, on the other hand, provides rapid oxidation.

Visitation

A "visitation" is when the body is laid out in the casket (which may be open or closed) before the service so that mourners may come to "visit."

Memorial Services

A memorial service is a service without the body present and can vary in ceremony and procedures according to the community and religious affiliations.

Meaningful Services

A funeral is so much more than a way to say goodbye; it's an opportunity to celebrate the life of someone special.