What a plan covers

Everything your family would otherwise have to decide.

You choose what to include. Here is what families most often put in writing.

The kind of service

  • Traditional funeral with visitation
  • Graveside service
  • Cremation, with or without a memorial service
  • Celebration of life

The personal touches

  • Music, hymns, and readings
  • Who officiates, and where
  • Flowers, photos, and keepsakes
  • Pallbearers and who should be told first
  • Obituary wishes

The funeral home’s goods and services

  • Professional services and care
  • Transportation
  • Casket or urn selection
  • Use of facilities for visitation and service

Costs to ask about

Some items are often charged by others, such as cemetery property, opening and closing, a vault or marker, and death certificates. Ask which items your plan includes, and which it does not.

“Simple” doesn’t have to mean no service

Direct cremation with no gathering is a legal choice. But many families who pick it only to save money later wish they had given people a chance to come together. A quiet, simple service can still be meaningful. If you want it quiet, say so, and leave your family a few words about what you wanted.

Ready when you are

Most first calls take about 15 minutes. No pressure, no obligation.

Not sure where to start? Need help now?

Tell Duane a little about your situation. He will reply personally by email or phone, even if you are outside North Carolina.