How To Select a Cemetery
Losing a loved one is difficult. Consequently, it’s even more difficult to handle all the memorial preparations and other details that follow. Being thoroughly prepared is essential to alleviating much of the burden when someone passes away, and it’s imperative to feel comfortable and knowledgeable regarding any funeral planning you may do. Given recent events, practical advice on selecting a cemetery may be more necessary than you think.
Why Carefully Selecting a Cemetery is Necessary
Four employees of Burr Oak Cemetery near Alsip, Illinois were recently taken into custody. The employees were accused of selling used burial sites, disinterring the re-sold graves, and dumping the remains in a remote section of the cemetery. As one can imagine, the scandal has created confusion, turmoil, and a mix of strong emotions from families with relatives buried at the cemetery. Here’s how to reduce your risk of dealing with something similar.
Location
For starters, local cemetery listings can be a useful resource when selecting a location to be buried. Keep in mind that certain cemeteries, like those designated for Military servicemen and women or cemeteries with certain religious affiliations, may impose restrictions on who they allow to be buried. After some preliminary research, if you find a cemetery that interests you, schedule a tour to inspect the grounds and available plots.
While you’re visiting, evaluate how well the grounds are maintained. A good trick is to check the outermost boundaries or somewhat removed portions of the cemetery — if these place are well maintained, it’s likely the rest will be, too. Additionally, make a point to meet any staff you see. Often the demeanor of employees will reflect the manner in which they care for the grounds. How much information do they offer freely, and how much do they know about all the processes involved?
Price
Ask about the difference in price for various burial sites. Often plots with a scenic view or pleasant surroundings will have a higher premium placed on them. Choosing a less visually appealing burial site may save you money. Also, if you’re aware of certain family members desiring to be buried together, it is often cheaper in the long run to purchase as many plots at the same time as necessary.
Unfortunately, depending on the integrity of the cemetery you choose, you may find “hidden fees” associated with your purchase. As a note, make sure you inquire about all fees associated with the burial sites. For instance, the total cost of a plot may include an initial down-payment, opening and closing fees, and ongoing maintenance fees as well.
Inquire about payment options, and, as a precaution, ask what happens if you change your mind. Sometimes you may get a refund or be able to sell your plot to someone else, but again, there may be fees associated with these options. Some cemeteries or funeral homes do offer additional services that may prove convenient in the future. If you want to stay flexible, consider choosing an organization that offers a number of different options including burial sites, mausoleums, or cremation. Additional services like plot maintenance and care, flowers, and coordinating a graveside funeral can be helpful in eliminating details and responsibilities after a death.
Additional Advice
In general, before you sign a contract or receipt, always read every word and ask questions if you don’t understand anything. Failing to fully understand the stipulations of a burial agreement upfront can be both costly and emotionally unnerving later on.
Note that some states do have laws regarding various aspects of funeral planning, like embalming for instance. Familiarize yourself with any applicable regulations to alleviate unneeded hiccups in the funeral planning process.
Finally, ask around. Friends or family who have already used a particular cemetery or funeral home will be a good resource. Also, you can see what others are saying about certain burial sites by inquiring at a local business bureau or online.
Funeral planning, or funeral pre-planning, doesn’t have to be a worrisome endeavor. Of course, no one is particularly comfortable with the process, but everyone should have peace of mind knowing that loved ones will be well cared for after they’ve gone and won’t be an added burden to an already emotional and difficult time.
~Richard McNeal, 2009
Tags: cemeteries, cemetery listings, choosing a cemetery, selecting a burial site