FAQ

Embalming cleanses and protects the body, by impeding decomposition and can improve the appearance of a body disfigured by trauma or illness. The process also makes it possible to lengthen the period between death and the final internment, giving additional time to make arrangements and plan an appropriate service for friends and family.

In most cases, embalming is not required by law. However, it is a critical part of the process for funeral arrangements such as viewing during visitation or periods of more than 24 hours between death and final disposition. One of our experienced staff members would be happy to discuss options, such as cremation or a green burial, that do not require embalming.

A public viewing of the deceased’s body is optional. Many experts on the grieving process believe a viewing can have positive impacts for friends and family of the dearly departed. Even children may benefit from the experience, though it should be voluntary and explained clearly.

Costs can vary widely depending on the type of service and options chosen. Most funerals will include both costs related to basic services and preparing the remains, as well as for products such as caskets, urns and grave markers.

The average cost of a traditional funeral is now more than $7,000 according to the National Funeral Directors Association. However, we encourage you speak with one of our preplanning advisors to fully explore your options and get a personalized estimate, as well as to discuss prepayment options that can reduce the financial burden for you and your family.     

Yes. Pre-arrangement and prepayment are more popular than ever. We strongly encourage families to take advantage of prearrangement services as a way to ease the burden on loved ones left behind. A short session to work out the details can have be a huge benefit for your family when that difficult time comes. It can also be financially advantageous by locking in prices at current rates. 

Your Advance Funeral Plan is designed to follow you to your new home if you move, or even if you decide to have a different funeral home handle the arrangements.

Any veteran who has been discharged, other than dishonorably, may receive a burial flag and grave marker courtesy of the Veterans Administration. Sunset is strongly committed to honoring veterans, and also offers an internment grave space on our grounds at no charge. For more information, speak to one of our specialists or visit our Veteran Services page. 

An obituary typically includes the deceased’s full name, age, date of birth and city and state they were living in when they passed. The names of immediate family members, and details about the forthcoming funeral services, are also included in most cases. Additional information such as accomplishments, or preferred charities in lieu of flowers can also be conveyed in the obituary.

An increasing number of individuals are choosing cremation as their final method of disposition. The popularity of this choice has grown with the range of options available, environmental concerns, religious acceptance and other factors. Our professionals can explain the process and help you decide if it’s right for you.             

This decision is up to each family. A traditional service can be held prior to cremation, or afterwards with the remains present in the urn.

Yes. The choice of cremation does not limit your ability to plan a funeral that meets the needs of you and your family. The staff at Sunset would be happy to discuss the many options and flexibility that comes with cremation.

Again, cremation offers a diverse choice of options. Cremated remains can be buried, placed in a niche, kept and displayed at home, or scattered in a meaningful place. Our advisors can help you explore all the possibilities.