Palm Mortuaries, Cemeteries, Crematories

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does a body have to be embalmed before it is buried?

  No, embalming is not required for burial. It is your choice. Embalming is suggested when the family has selected a public viewing with an open casket; or to enhance the deceased’s appearance for a private family viewing. If the body is transported out of state, some states require embalming or a special sealed container.

• Why is having a place to visit so important?

  It provides a focal point for memorializing the deceased. To remember, and to be remembered, are natural human needs. Permanent memorialization serves as an important emotional function for survivors as a place to come during the healing process. Providing a permanent resting place for the deceased is a dignified treatment for a loved one’s mortal remains, which fulfills the natural human desire for memorialization.

• What happens if I buy cemetery property here in advance and later move to another area?

  Many cemeteries belong to an exchange program which allows for a dollar-for-dollar transfer of services and merchandise between participating cemeteries. When prearranging, be sure to ask your local provider about exchange privileges offered.

• What is endowment care?

  A portion of the purchase price of the grave is contributed to an endowment care fund. Income from the endowment care fund is used to provide regular care and maintenance at the cemetery. The amount to be contributed to the endowment care fund is governed by law.

• What purpose does a funeral serve?

  For those who are left behind, a funeral provides a place for family and friends to gather for support and to reminisce; an opportunity to celebrate the life and accomplishments of a loved one; a chance to say goodbye.

• Is a funeral or memorial service always held in a funeral home or place of worship?

  A service can usually be held at any location the family and friends feel would be comfortable and appropriate. Your funeral director can assist with arranging a meaningful service.

• Is it okay to have a viewing and not a service?

  Yes, if that is the wish of the family, the funeral director will arrange designated times for calling hours, have the times published in the newspaper and simply add to obituary that services will be private.

• Does the price I receive from the funeral home include everything?

  The funeral director is responsible for explaining all the charges that specifically pertain to the funeral home’s services chosen and merchandise sold stated on its general price list. Any additional charges might be for clergy honorarium, newspaper notices, flowers, organist etc.

• How can I personalize a funeral service?

  One way is to bring personal items into the funeral home to be displayed in or near the casket. Example: An avid hunter or fisherman might have some of their personal effects or trophies displayed on a memory table. An artist could have their artwork displayed.

• What if I do not wish to use all the services a funeral home has to offer?

  The Federal Trade Commission Funeral Rule requires that all funeral homes itemize their charges for professional services, facilities and motor equipment and that they provide a General Price List to all clients. You have the right to select and pay for only those services you choose to utilize.

• Is a cremation service different from a traditional funeral service?

  No, the service or ceremony in memory of the individual can be the same regardless of whether cremation or burial is chosen. The extent or content of either service is subject to the wishes of the family.

• Is a casket required?

  Most crematories require that the body be enclosed and in an acceptable rigid container. It should provide a proper covering for the body and meet reasonable standards of respect and dignity.

• How is cremation accomplished?

  The enclosed body is placed in the cremation chamber where, through heat and evaporation, the body is reduced to its basic elements, which are referred to as cremated remains. The cremated remains are placed in an urn in preparation for final disposition.

• What choices of memorialization are available?

  The family may choose from a full selection of urns for permanent placement of the cremated remains. The urns may be placed in building niches called columbariums or lawn niches called urn gardens. In Palm’s cemeteries there are specially designed areas for this purpose. Family lots may also be used.

• What about scattering remains?

  This may be legally done in some areas. Many families that scatter still choose memorialization so they will have a permanent place to visit and remember their loved one. Palm’s cemeteries provide scattering gardens within their dedicated property often with the option of personal memorials.

• Is embalming necessary for cremation?

  No, the choice is yours. The factors of time, health and possible legal regulations might make embalming prior to cremation appropriate. Some religious beliefs or traditions might prohibit embalming.