How much does the average funeral cost?
In 2007, the charge for an adult full-service funeral was $6,000 in the Howard County area. This included a professional service charge, transfer of remains, embalming, other preparation, use of facilities, viewing and visitation one day with a service the next day, hearse, limousine, and casket. The casket in this price range was an 18 gauge steel casket. (There are many to choose from in this price range.) Cemetery charges would be additional as well as the charge for a vault required by most cemeteries in Howard County.
When someone dies at home, does a coroner need to be called before removal of the deceased?
The circumstances of death enter into the answer. If an elderly person under a doctor’s care dies at home, the doctor will usually sign the death certificate and the removal may be made. If suicide, homicide, accident, or unusual or suspicious circumstances are present, a coroner may need to order an autopsy. When in doubt, a call to 911 will answer the question in a particular situation.
Is it possible to have a traditional service and still choose cremation?
Yes, many options are available for those who choose cremation. Family members may view the body before disposition, public visitation may be observed with the use of a casket (rental caskets are also available), and memorial services or traditional funeral services are often held before cremation takes place. In the case of a direct cremation, a memorial service may be held at a later date.
What happens when someone dies of AIDS or AIDS-related illness?
A person who dies of AIDS can have a traditional funeral if the family desires. If public viewing is desired, that option is encouraged. It is safe to touch the hands and face of the deceased if one chooses to do so. The grief experienced by survivors of one who has suffered with AIDS is often very intense and those people may need even more support than survivors of other non-AIDS related deaths.