Choosing a Funeral Home

Sometimes the death of a loved one is sudden.  At other times, we know that death is near, but illness takes time to unfold its shroud. In all cases, dealing with death proves difficult. Those we love are a part of our lives, and it is never easy when they are separated from us.

Choosing a funeral home is often the first step in preparing for death and dealing with the emotional decisions that must be made during a time of loss.

At the time of a funeral, you need a trusted professional to help make the decisions which make you feel comfortable. You need to know that the professional you have chosen will be honest about the processes, the procedures, and the costs. This person will be like a trusted family member in your time of need and will treat you with respect and compassion.

In today's world, service professions, such as funeral homes, are changing rapidly. Because of corporate buyouts that focus only on the bottom-line, there is more reason than ever before to choose one's funeral director with care.

The R. Hayden Smith Funeral Homes recommend that families become educated BEFORE the funeral home is needed. Phone calls to local funeral service providers can be a key element in choosing a funeral home.

Begin by asking these questions:
1. Are you an independent funeral home? Independent funeral homes are locally owned by people who are an active part of the community.
2. Are your funeral directors fully licensed and do they have advanced training?
3. Does the funeral home offer opportunities for pre-arrangement? 
4. Does the funeral home honor pre-arrangements from other funeral homes?
5. Is a price list available (including services and merchandise such as caskets and vaults)? This should be given to you at no obligation.

These types of questions should help you determine whether this service provider will be available to meet your personal needs. In the past, many people simply went back to the funeral home that their family had always used. Today, the informed family may find it advantageous to research their choices.

R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home and Berceuse Funeral And Cremation Traditions will always answer any of your inquiries openly, honestly and with no obligation.

Ours has always been a tradition of our family serving your family. We live in this community and serve this community. Serving you means, among other things, providing you with information that is helpful in all areas of grief and loss. If you would like more information, please contact us and we will help you anyway we can.