Is embalming required by law?
No. You may select a funeral arrangement, such as a direct burial or direct cremation for which embalming is not required. In general, if there is to be an open-casket service with viewing, or if there will be a delay of more than a day or two between the time of death and the time of disposition, embalming will be required by the funeral firm.

What is the church's position on cremation?
Today, most religions, with the exception of the Jewish faith, allow for cremation as an option for disposition after death. The Catholic Church prefers that the cremated remains then be placed into a grave or columbarium (niche). In all faiths, a church service may be held prior to cremation or a memorial service may be held after the cremation. It is at the family's discretion whether the cremated remains should be present for the memorial service.

I'm Jewish. Must I use a Jewish funeral home?
No. Part of our training makes us aware of the traditions and special requirements of most of the world's religions. For those of the Jewish faith, we have a complete selection of all-wood construction caskets available at our facility, and can make arrangements for the ceremonial washing (Taharah) of the deceased. If there is any question we cannot answer, we have a rabbi available to help you with the requirements for a proper Jewish burial.

How do I get additional copies of the death certificate?
The original death certificate is filed with the Registrar of the township in which a person dies. For instance, someone who dies in Sayville will have his or her death certificate filed with the Islip Town Registrar. Additional copies may be obtained through the Registrar either in person or by mail. Copies are available only to next-of-kin or to a representative of the estate.

What do I do if someone dies at home?
When a death occurs at home, someone in authority must pronounce the death before the funeral home may come to remove the remains. If the patient is under Hospice care, a hospice nurse will come to the home to make the pronouncement. If a patient is under a doctor's care, call the doctor. If your family doctor cannot respond, call the police. They will come to the home and arrange for a physician's assistant from the Medical Examiner's office to make the pronouncement. If the patient has been under a doctor's care, there is generally no need for an autopsy to be performed, and the physician's assistant will release the deceased to a funeral home. Once we've been called, we will usually be at your home within one hour, at any time of the day or night.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice? Is either one required?
First, it is not required that you publish a notice upon the death of an individual. A death notice is a paid notice, which gives the deceased's name, date of death, survivors, and details of the funeral arrangements. An obituary contains all of the above information, plus more biographical information, such as armed service, schooling, interests, etc. and is generally placed in the paper at little or no charge.

What do I do if someone dies while away from home?
First, determine whether there are to be any services at the distant location. If not, then it is best to coordinate all arrangements through our funeral home. We have affiliates in all parts of the country and throughout the world, and can arrange to have your loved one returned here for final arrangements.

What does an average funeral cost?
While not trying to dodge the question, there is no such thing as an "average funeral." Each funeral is unique in that there are different circumstances regarding cemetery plots, religious affiliation, number of limousines desired and many other factors which will affect the cost. We are committed to work within each family's budget to provide a dignified funeral, no matter how simple or elaborate your wishes may be. We are always available to give you a detailed estimate of funeral costs based on your unique circumstances.

Any other questions? Contact Us.