Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a funeral can be overwhelming, with numerous decisions to make during an emotional time. We hope this guide provides the support and information you need to make informed decisions.
Funeral directors act as support and manage all aspects of the funeral process, such as coordinating with cemeteries, crematories, vendors, churches and clergy, and florists, etc., ensuring everything runs smoothly. They also provide clerical assistance in the completion of various forms and permits associated with a funeral.
- Information about the deceased that is listed on our Vital Statistics Form. This information will be used to file a death certificate and a disposition permit, such as a burial or cremation permit.
- Advance Health Care Directive – If the deceased left a written advance health care directive concerning the right to control the disposition of their remains, please bring it so we can retain a copy for our files.
- Military Discharge Papers, such as a DD214, in the event that you want a burial flag, military honors, or interment at a national cemetery.
- The name and address of the cemetery if property is already owned or determined.
While we do accept walk-ins, it’s highly recommended that you schedule an appointment to guarantee that a director will be available for you, and attend to you in a timely fashion.
“Funeral Service” is an all-encompassing term that can refer to many types of funerals, such as a memorial service, prayer service, funeral mass, vigil, celebration of life, etc. Traditional funeral services typically include the physical presence of the departed while accompanying them to their final resting place. A memorial service often refers to a service taking place after cremation, or after the departed has been laid to rest.
Yes, we can. When you meet with your arrangement counselor to plan funeral services, you’ll have the option to request which details, if any, should be posted on our website.
Yes, even if arrangements have been completed with another mortuary, or you want to celebrate your loved one who passed away a long time ago, you may make arrangements to use our facilities. Please give us a call to schedule a time to do so.
The process involves a doctor to provide causes, the vital statistics you provide to your arrangement counselors, and the county health department. Times can vary depending on which county the death occurred, and how responsive the doctor’s office is. Generally, it can take approximately 10 to 14 days, but each family’s circumstances vary. After the death certificate is complete, we can order them from the corresponding county.
Once we have your loved one in our care, we will set an appointment with the next of kin or responsible party to make arrangements which may include the day and time of viewing your loved one.
We have easels for collages and photos, screens to display slideshows, livestreaming, and more. You can view all of our amenities as well as photos of our funeral home on our Facilities page. You’re welcome to call us at 714-544-1450 to schedule a time with one of our counselors to view our chapel and ask additional questions.
Embalming is very strongly suggested if an open casket viewing or service is to be held. Embalming may be required under special circumstances, such as international forwarding.
Services can be held either before or after cremation, depending on family preferences. Traditional funeral ceremonies can occur before cremation, while memorial services often take place afterward with the cremated remains present.
We accept cash, credit and debit cards, personal checks, and cashiers checks. We respectfully ask for payment at the time arrangements are made, but no later than 72 hours before services take place.
A burial vault is a lined and sealed receptacle that houses the casket, protecting it from the weight of the earth and heavy equipment. It also helps maintain the structure of the cemetery grounds. Not every cemetery requires one, but it is commonly required.
Yes, and it is highly recommended. Also known as a pre-need or pre-plan, this will allow individuals to outline their wishes, easing the burden on family members. They are able to guarantee current service pricing while protecting loved ones from future price increases, and provide peace of mind. For details, please call us to schedule a consultation appointment.