https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/mother-died-how-long-do-we-keep-her-things Separating from a loved one’s belongings is one of the more difficult jobs you will have to do after a death. It is amazing how much is collected over a lifetime. You probably won’t get it done in a day and you will probably shed a few tears. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Separating from a loved one’s belongings is one of the more difficult jobs you will have to do after a death. It is amazing how much is collected over a lifetime. You probably won’t get it done in a day and you will probably shed a few tears.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Ask for help. Accepting and asking for help is harder than you might think. It is hard to turn over the decision of what goes and what stays to someone else. If your offer of help is refused, be understanding. Your mother may need to handle every one of your deceased father’s possessions before anything can go. Give her some time and then offer to help again a little later. Offering to box or bag after items have been sifted through is a huge help.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> If you are the decision maker, consider providing some guidelines and then letting go. It’s a big job. Some help will be nice.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> First contact your family members to determine what they might be interested in having. Give people some notice and a time limit, “If there is anything that you want from Mom’s wardrobe please come and get it before next week. I am going to sort through then and will be giving things to charity.”  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Second, make it a goal to handle things once. To keep you on track, get boxes, bins or bags and mark them FOR CHARITY, FOR TRASH, TO KEEP. Keep those boxes moving. At the end of the day take the trash to the trash and the charity to the donation site so that you won’t be tempted to go through them just one more time.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> If you are thinking about having a sale, think long and hard. People haggle at tag and garage sales. Are you emotionally prepared to dicker over the value of your dad’s favorite tie or his collection of fishing lures? Might it be better to think of his things finding new homes with people who need them? Sales are a lot of work, be kind to yourself, avoid taking on too much.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Procrastination won’t make the task easier. If you cannot take care of the sorting and giving, turn the job over to someone else. If you are a procrastinator, storage units have your name written all over them. Calculate the annual cost. Ask yourself, “What will change between now and next year?” Have a plan. When does the storage end?  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Memories are attached to our stuff. You will no doubt take more than a few walks down memory lane. Slow down and enjoy the journey. A life is over, but it’s not forgotten. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 11 Dec 2025 17:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/mother-died-how-long-do-we-keep-her-things thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/veterans-day-thank-you-for-your-service Because you are there we all sleep better at night. You serve in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard. Some of you serve for two years, some for twenty or more. Some enter into service at a tender age looking for opportunity. Some are following a longstanding family tradition. You are mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters. We, thank you for your service. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Because you are there we all sleep better at night. You serve in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard. Some of you serve for two years, some for twenty or more. Some enter into service at a tender age looking for opportunity. Some are following a longstanding family tradition. You are mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters. We, thank you for your service. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> You spend days, weeks, and even years away from your family. You are not always there to teach your daughter to ride her bike; perhaps you missed your son’s first steps. Because you serve, you can’t always be counted on to attend the baseball game or the teacher conference. With your service comes sacrifice. Sacrifices made by both you and your family. We thank you and your family for your service.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Thank you for being ready and on alert so that we can go about our business without even thinking about the “what ifs”. Thank you for putting yourself in harms way. Thank you for giving us your time, your energy and your youth. Thank you for representing us with honor where ever you are stationed. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Regardless of whether you serve us at home or in foreign lands, in time of war or peace, we thank you for your service.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> On Memorial Day we remember those who gave their lives in our service, on Armed Forces Day we honor those currently serving. On Veterans Day we honor all who have served our country from the Revolution in 1776 to today. Thank you. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 06 Nov 2025 17:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/veterans-day-thank-you-for-your-service thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/what-to-expect-with-cremation Cremation has been around for thousands of years. It is required by some faiths and forbidden by others. Governments, charged with protection of the public health and aesthetic of the community, have laws governing both cremation and burial practices. One way to view burial and cremation is to look at each as a means to the same end. Dust to dust. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Cremation has been around for thousands of years. It is required by some faiths and forbidden by others. Governments, charged with protection of the public health and aesthetic of the community, have laws governing both cremation and burial practices. One way to view burial and cremation is to look at each as a means to the same end. Dust to dust. Cremation is quick, and burial is slow. Either one is a legal and acceptable means to the end. Most people understand what burial is about, but questions remain about cremation. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Cremation takes place in a chamber designed specifically for the purpose of reducing human remains to basic elements. This chamber is called a retort, cremator, or cremation chamber. One human body and only one at a time is cremated in the cremator. The body is clothed or shrouded and placed in a container before being placed in the cremation chamber. The container is made of a combustible material. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The cremation process takes from 2 to 3 hours. The time varies based on the size of the body and heat capacity of the cremation chamber. Typically, the chamber reaches between 1500 and 1900 degrees during the cremation process. The body is reduced to bone fragments. After cremation the chamber cools and the contents are swept clean, any metal is collected, and the larger bone fragments are crushed. The finished product is greyish white in color and is similar to the consistency of aquarium gravel. It is coarser than dust or ashes.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> On average, four to six pounds of cremated remains are produced. The height of the individual has more impact on the amount of remains than the weight of the person.  The composition of cremated remains is largely calcium carbonate. There are several options of what to do with remains. It is important, and sadly often overlooked, to have a plan for cremated remains that is acceptable for the family. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Cremated remains can be buried in a cemetery. Many cemeteries allow one cremated family member to be buried in the same grave space along with another family member. This option is a cost savings since a second burial space is not needed. It also gives family members the benefit of having a location to visit and remember.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Ashes can also be scattered on private property or buried at sea. See epa.gov for the laws regarding burial at sea. There are also services that will assist a family with carrying out a sea burial. It is always advisable to work through your family funeral home. Your local funeral director will know who to call and who can be trusted to carry out your family member’s wishes.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> It is also possible for family members to keep the remains in an urn or in attractive jewelry pieces. The best person to help you sort out all of these decisions and choices is your funeral director or advance funeral planner. Both typically offer consultation at no cost.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 09 Oct 2025 16:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/what-to-expect-with-cremation thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/what-do-you-do-with-cremated-remains What happens when no one decides what to do with the six pounds of cremated remains that are left following the funeral or memorial service? You might be surprised at some of the unusual places where they show up. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> What happens when no one decides what to do with the six pounds of cremated remains that are left following the funeral or memorial service? You might be surprised at some of the unusual places where they show up. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> For example, let’s just say you buy a swell little red two-seater sports car and drive that baby home. Of course, you are going to give her a good sprucing up. When you get around to cleaning the trunk you find a non-descript little plastic box. Close inspection reveals it’s full of a chunky greyish white substance. On the bottom of the box you notice there is a label and a name! OMG! You have what’s left of someone you never knew in your trunk! Or, you buy a house and it looks like someone left a nice vase in the attic … you get where I am going with this, right? As life moves on, sometimes well-meaning people lose track of the box or urn they were looking after. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Thrift stores and Goodwill are often the recipient of cremated remains. And guess what? They don’t want your great uncle Henry. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> How can this be? Well, family members are not always comfortable with the scattering plan the deceased requested. It’s hard to dispose of what remains of someone you loved. Perhaps the plan wasn’t even realistic. The sand trap on the seventh hole is really not an easy place to “scatter” six pounds of crushed bone fragments. It’s not sand. All too often, cremated remains find their way back to the funeral home years after the funeral service took place. It’s the boom-a-rang effect, leaving the funeral home with the task of tracking down a living relative. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The moral of this story is simple. When someone you love tells you they “just want to be cremated” ask this question, “And then what shall we do with your ashes?”. If you are thinking about cremation don’t leave your plan partially complete. Talk to your funeral director or advance funeral planner (both can be found at your local funeral home) about your options for after the cremation. Make sure the family members you designate to carry out your final plan are comfortable and able to take care of the final resting place for your ashes. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Finally, if you have a family member’s cremated ashes in the attic, trunk, or somewhere unusual and you need help with a final plan… call the funeral home. They can help you make choices. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 04 Sep 2025 16:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/what-do-you-do-with-cremated-remains thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/cremation-society-or-funeral-home Cremation, like electric cars and cell phones is here to stay. For some people cremation is part of their religious practice. For other people, cremation just feels right for them. The big question is who should help you with your cremation, a society or a funeral director? <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Cremation, like electric cars and cell phones is here to stay. For some people cremation is part of their religious practice. For other people, cremation just feels right for them. The big question is who should help you with your cremation, a society or a funeral director? </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Cremation Societies specialize in what is called a direct cremation. Direct cremation means the society will remove the deceased from the place of death and take the body directly to their crematory where the cremation process will take place. Following cremation, the ashes are returned to the family in a bag or box. It’s all pretty quick. The cost is quite low for direct cremation. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> But something is missing. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> How do we feel when a family member dies? What helps? Death is a loss. It is hard to describe how loss feels, but it is something like a void, a vacuum, or an energy shift. You see something close when you watch victims of the California wild fires or a tornado on television. You see that dazed and stunned look on their faces. That is loss. There they stand looking at a pile of rubble that was their home … and now it is gone. That look is about loss of a building. Loss of a person, someone you love, is so much more. It hurts your heart. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Funeral directors are trained and specialize in taking care of the deceased AND in taking care of the family of the deceased. They know people need more. They are going to encourage you to slow down a little and give the family a little time for the reality of the loss to sink in. Give a little time for the family to consider what they need to do to begin to heal.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Funeral directors specialize in helping families put together a gathering to honor the one who died. They know that being with those you love and who love you helps. They know words, as a part of a religious, spiritual, or life celebration ceremony help. Funerals are the funeral director’s specialty. They have done this many times with many families. Funeral directors are the experts. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Of course, the funeral home will help you with a direct cremation if that is what your family prefers. To be fair, cremation societies will also add on some service options at the family’s request. As you add services the cost increases. It is important to look for value. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The funeral home is staffed by licensed trained funeral directors and serves families from a clean, company ready facility with plenty of parking and is a good value. Do your homework. Where will cremation take place? If your family wants service where will the service take place? If you add service and products what is the difference in price? How important is cost over expertise? Share your budget with the funeral director at your funeral home. Don’t assume you need to sacrifice ceremony for savings. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 07 Aug 2025 16:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/cremation-society-or-funeral-home thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/flowers-and-funerals What’s the story behind flowers at a funeral? Well, back in the day before funeral directors perfected the art and science of embalming, flowers were used to mask the odor of the body. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> What’s the story behind flowers at a funeral? Well, back in the day before funeral directors perfected the art and science of embalming, flowers were used to mask the odor of the body. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> In modern times flowers are no longer needed to mask unpleasant odors but they have come to be a part of the funeral for other reasons. When we struggle to find words to comfort a friend, flowers speak eloquently for us. They express that we care. Flowers can be sent from any place in the world to any place in the world. When we are not able to go to the service, flowers stand in our stead. Flowers are always in good taste and they are appreciated for the beauty and serenity they bring to the occasion. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Did you know different flower colors have different meanings? White flowers symbolize honor and innocence. In many religions, death means going to heaven and a return to innocence. White lilies, carnations, roses, and cushion poms are often used in funeral arrangements. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Red flowers are frequently given by a spouse or close family member. Red blooms symbolize courage, strength, and love. The red tulip is a symbol of perfect love. Blue flowers such as hydrangea and cornflowers represent peace and serenity. Yellow flowers symbolize friendship and new beginnings. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Flowers for the casket are usually provided by close family members. Funeral flowers are sent directly to the funeral home and are not usually addressed to a particular family member, but rather are sent in honor of the deceased. It is appropriate to send smaller cut flowers or plants of remembrance to individual family members at their home. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Flowers help us communicate feelings of the heart. Flowers speak for us and say we love you, we support you, we are proud of you, and we are with you on your grief journey. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> In recorded time, and probably before, communities have understood the importance of gathering following a death. Paying respects to the deceased and comforting the survivors has been a part of life. Coming together when an important life event occurs is just natural. We come to see the new baby and we gather when a loved one’s life on this earth ends. We celebrate and remember with flowers. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 10 Jul 2025 16:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/flowers-and-funerals thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/celebrating-grads-and-grands Millions of high school students across the nation will graduate this year. There will be parties, balloons, cakes and speeches. Many of these young people will receive the gift of a wonderful little book written at 87 years of age by Dr. Seuss. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Millions of high school students across the nation will graduate this year. There will be parties, balloons, cakes and speeches. Many of these young people will receive the gift of a wonderful little book written at 87 years of age by Dr. Seuss.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> Oh, the Places You’ll Go! </strong> <span> <span> was the last book to be published during Seuss’s lifetime. It’s about the journey of life and its challenges. It’s inspiring and makes a terrific graduation gift and is sure to be appreciated by any graduating senior…especially when a check, gift card, or tickets to Europe are stuck inside.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> But what about the other end of life. Shouldn’t there be another book… Oh, the Places You Have Been? Why, do people feel diminished as they age? Why are we taking less and less time to wrap up a life and tie it with a pretty ribbon? Why do we say, “No fuss needed for me, no funeral needed.”? Surely six, seven, or even nine decades of life are worth celebrating.   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> At the end of every life shouldn’t there be a look back? What about the choices that were made, the work that was done, the people encountered, the things that were learned? What about all that? Shouldn’t just sticking with it through all the ups and the downs of life merit a celebration of some kind? As Seuss advises, “With brains in your head and shoes full of feet, you can steer yourself in any direction you choose.” </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> There have to be stories. This is the generation that began with a party line telephone and is ending up with telephone watches that take pictures and tell you how many steps you’ve taken in a day! There have to be stories. These people served in Vietnam, listened to the Beatles, watched a man land on the moon. They had black and white TV that only sent a signal a few hours a day and they walked to the TV to change channels! There have to be stories. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Now is the time. Capture those stories. Ask your parent(s) about their life before you. Ask the same of grandparents. Ask about their hopes and dreams. What surprised them? What was fun and what was hard? Capture the stories and the life lessons. Prepare to celebrate the grands as well as the grads. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="/" target="_blank"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 05 Jun 2025 16:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/celebrating-grads-and-grands thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/memorial-day Thu, 01 May 2025 16:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/memorial-day thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/the-gift-of-a-note-to-your-family Nothing means more to a grieving child, spouse, sister, brother or friend than a personal note from the deceased. It’s something that will be cherished. The note will make its way out of it’s safe keeping spot whenever the mourner needs to feel close to the person who died. It will be read on those tearful days that are sure to come. It will also be read on those days that are full of joyful remembrance. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Nothing means more to a grieving child, spouse, sister, brother or friend than a personal note from the deceased. It’s something that will be cherished. The note will make its way out of it’s safe keeping spot whenever the mourner needs to feel close to the person who died. It will be read on those tearful days that are sure to come. It will also be read on those days that are full of joyful remembrance.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The note doesn’t have to be eloquent. It doesn’t have to be brilliant or witty. It doesn’t have to be long. It just needs to tell the person how you feel about them. The writer might also include what they liked about recipient, enjoyed doing with them, or how the person was helpful. The note can express gratitude or love. It can include a shared “remember when” story. In the end it’s a love note. A personal connection that lasts even when life has ended. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> So, when do you write these notes and where do you keep them? There really is no need to wait. Write your notes today or tomorrow as you live your life. They can always be revised and updated. Waiting may mean that you never get around to it. Remember, life is fragile. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> If you have an advance funeral plan on file at your preferred funeral home, you might ask the funeral director to keep them for you. Just imagine how lovely it would be for your family to receive your note at the conclusion of their conference with the funeral director to finalize your arrangements. If you don’t have a plan on file, make sure someone in your family knows where the notes are kept and when they should be distributed. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <strong> “We are fragile creatures, and it is from this weakness, not despite it, that we discover the possibility of true joy.”  <br/> ― Desmond Tutu, The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World </strong> </p> <p> <strong>   </strong> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 03 Apr 2025 16:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/the-gift-of-a-note-to-your-family thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/until-death-do-us-part-losing-a-spouse-three-to-six-months-after-loss By now most of the big stuff is probably done. The Thank you notes have been written and mailed. The marker or head stone has been placed or you’ve found a place for the urn. You’ve probably filed for the life insurance, and perhaps you’ve even begun to clean out his closet. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> By now most of the big stuff is probably done. The Thank you notes have been written and mailed. The marker or head stone has been placed or you’ve found a place for the urn. You’ve probably filed for the life insurance, and perhaps you’ve even begun to clean out his closet.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> You may be wondering, what have I missed? </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> o Have you changed the titles to the car? </span> </p> <p> <span> o Put the deed to the home in your name? </span> </p> <p> <span> o Have you changed the utilities and cable service into your name? </span> </p> <p> <span> o Is your medical power of attorney up to date? </span> </p> <p> <span> o Have you updated your estate plan or will? </span> </p> <p> <span> o Have you spoken to an accountant or tax expert about any tax consequences associated with gifts you have made or increased allocations from IRA or investments? </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> How about you? What are you doing to take care of you? </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> o Are you up-to–date with your health and dental care? </span> </p> <p> <span> o Are you eating well? </span> </p> <p> <span> o Are you learning to cook or have you gotten someone to mow the lawn? </span> </p> <p> <span> o Have you had lunch or dinner with a friend? </span> </p> <p> <span> o Have you done something fun? A movie? Golf? A ball game? </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Scientists tell us there is a hand mind connection. Doing things with our hands actually increases our sense of well-being. That something could be washing the dishes, preparing your meal, or even making your bed. But why not try something creative that you used to do or have thought about trying? Don’t discount the value of a craft, woodworking or an art project. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> <span> Finally, see people. If your friends and family aren’t calling you, call them. Look for a movie you would like to see, a museum you would like to visit, or a restaurant you would like to try and ask someone to join you.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 06 Mar 2025 17:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/until-death-do-us-part-losing-a-spouse-three-to-six-months-after-loss thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/cremation-or-burial-is-that-the-question When a family member dies or when a person is planning their own funeral in advance, one of the first questions that will be asked is, “Do you want burial or cremation?” The burial or cremation question is a starting point for a number of choices that must be made. It’s a place to start. But it is absolutely not the entire story. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> When a family member dies or when a person is planning their own funeral in advance, one of the first questions that will be asked is, “Do you want burial or cremation?” The burial or cremation question is a starting point for a number of choices that must be made. It’s a place to start. But it is absolutely not the entire story. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> So, how do you decide?  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Approximately 50 percent of people choose burial, so that means the other half choose to be cremated. The numbers vary vastly in different parts of the country, from small towns to big cities, from one faith base to another, from one family to another. The most important thing to remember when you are the decision maker is this: let go of what you think burial is, and let go of what you think cremation is. Either can be just about anything you want, and either can provide comfort for your family. So, yes, cremation can include faith, gathering, visitation, a funeral and burial. And, yes, burial can include a celebration of life, music, and pictures in addition to visitation, faith, and funeral. Woo Hoo! Who knew you can have it your way! </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Here are a few things to consider when deciding between cremation or burial. What is your family tradition? Do you want to continue with that tradition, or do you want to change things up? Do you and your family share a faith base? Where does your faith stand on the cremation or burial question? Where do you live? Does your family live near you? Will someone be around to tend or visit your burial place? Will your family be disappointed if there is no grave to visit? What is your budget? What will your family be able to do? Will they put together a video, sing a song, tell a story, host the gathering? What can they do and where will they appreciate help? </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> If the choice is to bury, a cemetery will need to be selected and then a location within that cemetery. The burial site provides a place for family members to visit and remember. They can bring flowers or flags to decorate the gravesite during the course of the year. These are all actions that many families find help them with the grieving process.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> If the choice is to cremate, then a final location for cremated remains will need to be selected. Sadly, this final and very important decision is often overlooked. There are many options. Cremated remains can be buried, placed in a niche, scattered, or retained by a family member. Careful consideration of those left with the ashes should be made before deciding on a final resting place for cremated remains. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> It is a lot. Fortunately, help is available. A funeral director or advance funeral planner can help, and all you need to do is call the funeral home to arrange for an appointment. There is usually no cost for an arrangement appointment. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Fri, 07 Feb 2025 21:01:06 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/cremation-or-burial-is-that-the-question thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/writing-the-thank-you-notes Writing thank you notes is usually one of the very first “after the funeral” tasks you will undertake. You may be surprised to find that your brain/hand coordination is not working so well. You sit there with pen in hand and well-formed thoughts in your head, but somehow it all gets lost between the head and the paper. Don’t despair. This is normal and it’s all part of the grief journey. You are not thinking straight now, but you will again soon. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Writing thank you notes is usually one of the very first “after the funeral” tasks you will undertake. You may be surprised to find that your brain/hand coordination is not working so well. You sit there with pen in hand and well-formed thoughts in your head, but somehow it all gets lost between the head and the paper. Don’t despair. This is normal and it’s all part of the grief journey. You are not thinking straight now, but you will again soon.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> First, let’s tackle who gets a “thank you” and then I can give you a few wordy ideas to help you get started. Anyone who made a donation or sent flowers should get a thank you note from a family member. You will also want to send a note to people who helped. Maybe they provided food or took care of the dog for you or picked up people at the airport. All of those folks should receive a note of thanks. You do not need to send notes to people who sent condolence cards, emails, or texts.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Your words can be brief. No one expects a long letter from you at this time. It is just nice to know that the flo </span> <span> wers arrived, or the donation was received. Your kind friends just need to hear thank you.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Thank you for all your kindness ….  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> Your help meant so much to us….  </span> </p> <p> <span> We all loved the broccoli, thank you for taking care of us ….  </span> </p> <p> <span> Your flowers were so beautiful and such a comfort to us ….  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> For some, these are written the day after the funeral. Everyone sits around the kitchen table to write the thank you notes and everyone laughs as more than a few notes are torn and tossed in the trash. This may be the first laughter heard in several days.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="/" target="_blank"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> </div> Thu, 06 Feb 2025 17:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/writing-the-thank-you-notes thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/normandys-hallowed-ground The Normandy American Cemetery is the resting place for 9,387 Americans, most of whom gave their lives during the landing operations and in the establishment of the beachhead. The headstones are of white Italian marble adorned with a Star of David for those of Jewish faith and a Latin Cross for all others. The permanent cemetery is located on land France granted to the United States in perpetuity. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Every year on June 6, we recognize the anniversary of the Normandy Invasion during World War II. The invasion by the Allied Forces established a foothold on the shores of France; and was the start of the Allied advance into the interior which eventually lead to victory in Europe and liberty for the millions of people living under the tyranny of Adolf Hitler. The costly battle was the most important allied victory in the second world war. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The campaign began on June 6 and ended on June 30. During that period 425,000 Allied and German troops were killed, wounded, or went missing. Many are buried in the 27 war cemeteries, ranging in size from 30 graves to 20,000, in Normandy. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The Normandy American Cemetery is the resting place for 9,387 Americans, most of whom gave their lives during the landing operations and in the establishment of the beachhead. The headstones are of white Italian marble adorned with a Star of David for those of Jewish faith and a Latin Cross for all others. The permanent cemetery is located on land France granted to the United States in perpetuity. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> For those fortunate enough to visit the burial grounds, the experience is singular. Approaching alone or with a group the mood changes. Breathing slows, the chatter quiets, tones are hushed. The feeling is somber. It draws you in. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> And then, there it is, pristine lush green lawn dotted by thousands of white markers in perfect formation overlooking the very beaches where those buried here fought and died. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Visitors are, at first, overwhelmed by the sheer number of markers. But as you get closer and begin to read the engravings, the reality of the cost of war begins to sink in. So many died, they were so very young, and all lost in such a short span of time. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> All those lives ended before they ever really began. So many who would never find their true love, hold a new born child of their own, or buy a home. So many who never got to experience all the post war changes the rest of us take for granted. Those buried here did not live to see air travel become commonplace, a man land on the moon or watch a color television. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> They were heroic and their sacrifice was great. We must never forget. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The anniversary is an opportunity to honor those lost. It is also an opportunity celebrate peace and reconciliation. In our mindfulness we become aware of the fragility of peace and the pain of war. It is that mindfulness that makes us better people. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> In the words of the late John Lennon… </span> </p> <p> <span> Imagine all the people <br/> Living life in peace  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> You may say that I'm a dreamer <br/> But I'm not the only one <br/> I hope someday you'll join us <br/> And the world will be as one </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Wed, 22 Jan 2025 19:19:39 GMT fdgrif@gmail.com (Sank Griffiths) https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/normandys-hallowed-ground thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/dad-died-what-do-i-do-with-the-pills Thu, 02 Jan 2025 17:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/dad-died-what-do-i-do-with-the-pills thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/what-to-look-for-when-you-are-buying-final-expense-insurance Thu, 19 Dec 2024 17:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/what-to-look-for-when-you-are-buying-final-expense-insurance thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/moving-after-a-spouse-dies- Thu, 05 Dec 2024 17:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/moving-after-a-spouse-dies- https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/how-to-dress-for-a-funeral First, understand that what you wear to the funeral is much less important than actually going to the funeral or gathering.  Don’t underestimate the value of your presence.   Your kind words, shared stories, or even just a hug will mean a great deal to friends and family when there has been a death. Don’t let not having a pair of dress shoes keep you from offering your support.   That being said, what you wear depends on several different factors. The first thing to consider is who died.   If your 80-year-old grandfather passed, the funeral is likely to be more traditional. His older friends will attend, so you will want to be more conservative.   A pair of slacks and a collared shirt for men and boys will do nicely. If you own a sport coat, by all means wear it. A tie with or without the jacket would be a nice, but not a required, addition.   For the ladies and girls, dress slacks and a nice sweater or blouse will serve the purpose. A dress or skirt would also be lovely. Do pay attention to necklines and length of the skirt.   When the funeral is for a younger person or will not be faith based, it may be more informal.   A celebration of life is typically more relaxed and may even have a theme that the family will ask attendees to support.  So if you’re asked to wear golf attire to the funeral of an avid golfer, don’t be surprised.   Like the dress code for most events today, what we wear to a funeral has relaxed. Black is no longer required, but neat, clean, and subdued are always in good taste.   A funeral is not a place to stand out or be the center of attention. As you survey your wardrobe, think in terms of what you would wear to an important job interview or something you would want to wear to apply in person for a bank loan. www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com Thu, 21 Nov 2024 17:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/how-to-dress-for-a-funeral https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/saying-thank-you-to-a-veteran There are a million ways to say thank you. Great or small they all have value. Decide to always just say thank you whenever you see a person in uniform. When you see a person in uniform at the coffee shop or fast food restaurant pick up their tab if you can. At the airport trade your first class or comfort seat for their standard seat If you have a neighbor who is deployed offer to play catch with the kids or mow the lawn. Ask how you can help Send a care package by contacting Operation Gratitude Donate your old cell phone Drive a Veteran to their doctor appointments (contact the hospital services coordinator at the local VA hospital) Write a letter Volunteer at a VA hospital If you run a business hire a veteran - Hire Heroes USA Donate dollars or time to train service dogs for veterans - Patriot Paws or Puppy Jake Foundation Build a house for a veteran - Building Homes for Heroes Big dollars or only a few dollars, lots of time or only a little time, where there is a will there is a way to say thank you to those who serve in our military. www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com Thu, 07 Nov 2024 17:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/saying-thank-you-to-a-veteran https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/too-little-too-late----a-memorial-gone-wrong Thu, 24 Oct 2024 16:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/too-little-too-late----a-memorial-gone-wrong https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/preplanning-your-funeral-in-your-60-s Thu, 10 Oct 2024 16:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/preplanning-your-funeral-in-your-60-s https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/grief-is-individual Thu, 26 Sep 2024 16:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/grief-is-individual https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/how-should-i-prepare-for-my-funeral-preplanning-meeting- Thu, 12 Sep 2024 16:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/how-should-i-prepare-for-my-funeral-preplanning-meeting- https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/it-s-not-really-a-funeral-plan-if-it-s-not-at-the-funeral-home Thu, 29 Aug 2024 16:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/it-s-not-really-a-funeral-plan-if-it-s-not-at-the-funeral-home thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/should-i-go-to-the-funeral- Why should you attend a funeral? The presence of family and friends at the funeral is appreciated. We gather to acknowledge a life that was lived. We gather to comfort those for whom life has just been forever changed by the death of someone they loved. If you care for one or more of the survivors, you should attend the funeral (even if you did not know the person who died). Your friend will appreciate your presence. Being there shows that you acknowledge that your friend’s life has changed in some way. Your presence shows your support. If you knew the person who died but do not know their family, you should attend the funeral. Your presence demonstrates your respect for human life in general and the life of the person who died in particular. Perhaps you worked with the person who died. It is comforting for the surviving family to know the person they loved was also appreciated at work. If you are hesitating because you are unfamiliar with the person’s faith and fear you will embarrass yourself or feel like a fish out of water, go anyway. You will be fine. You can prepare a little in advance by looking for some information online about the funeral customs of the family’s faith. When should you stay home? Anytime you are going to a funeral and you know it will make one or more members of the immediate family uncomfortable, perhaps you shouldn’t go. If going is more about you and less about the deceased or the surviving family, don’t go. A funeral is not a place to prove a point. www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com Thu, 15 Aug 2024 16:00:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/should-i-go-to-the-funeral- thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/thinking-about-skipping-the-funeral- Sun, 04 Aug 2024 21:13:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/thinking-about-skipping-the-funeral- thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/finding-your-joy Sun, 21 Jul 2024 23:50:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/finding-your-joy thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/we-all-love-in-very-different-ways---preserving-the-family-relationship-while-planning-a-funeral Sat, 13 Jul 2024 16:35:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/we-all-love-in-very-different-ways---preserving-the-family-relationship-while-planning-a-funeral thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/do-i-really-need-to-attend-the-funeral- Wed, 26 Jun 2024 19:56:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/do-i-really-need-to-attend-the-funeral- thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/where-should-i-send-my-condolences- Mon, 10 Jun 2024 19:22:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/where-should-i-send-my-condolences- thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/why-plan-your-funeral-in-advance The story below illustrates the benefits of preplanning your funeral. Also known as an “advance funeral plan”, “preneed”, or a “preplanned funeral”, it is one of the few things in life where you can pay today’s prices for a product and service you may not need for many years down the road, thus saving you money. <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Why Plan Your Funeral in Advance? </span> </h3> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> The story below illustrates the benefits of preplanning your funeral. Also known as an “advance funeral plan”, “preneed”, or a “preplanned funeral”, it is one of the few things in life where you can pay today’s prices for a product and service you may not need for many years down the road, thus saving you money. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> We buried my dad last week. My dad’s funeral would have been just a little more than $8,000 not counting the luncheon or cemetery space. However, thanks to his pre-need funeral plan that he prepared 18 years ago at the funeral home, we got it for $5,000 and some change. Saving money wasn’t necessarily what motivated him to make the plan in advance. But, let me tell you, my mom was pretty pleased to know she didn’t have to write that check. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Now, I should clarify something here. My mom is more than okay financially. Paying, even the full $8,000, for the funeral would not have been a financial issue. It was an emotional thing. She knew the death of my dad was going to change her life. She just didn’t know how it would change. So, everything, every action and especially spending money, increased her anxiety. We didn’t need that. Thank you, dad, for taking care of the plan and its cost well before it was needed. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> What motivated my father to pre-plan was the fact we are a blended family. It’s not the we don’t all get along, we do (most of the time). But, we don’t all have the same taste. My sister, his oldest daughter, likes the earth tones. Our mom, his wife, on the other hand, likes the jewel tones. My dad picked a black casket and even said he wanted to be buried in his navy suit. Seems like small stuff, but it probably saved us all some angst. There was no fuss, no brown suit and no hurt feelings. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> If my dad would have asked us 18 years ago if he should pre-plan and pre-pay for his funeral, I feel certain all five of us would have said, “Don’t worry about that. We can take care of it when we have to.” I am so grateful that he did not ask and that he did not think just about the money portion of an advance funeral plan. Dad, thank you for being smarter than us and knowing that we would need your emotional support even in death. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Fri, 31 May 2024 22:02:57 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/why-plan-your-funeral-in-advance thumbnail main image https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/why-plan-your-funeral-in-advance- Fri, 31 May 2024 20:46:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/why-plan-your-funeral-in-advance- thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/who-should-record-my-funeral-wishes There is a woman who once thought that she’d like to have a hologram made of her wearing an Obi-Wan Kenobi robe for her funeral. Her four sons grew up during the Star Wars era and similar to Obi-Wan, she would love to pass along the wisdom she acquired over her lifetime to those she loves. And yes, she would also like to have the last word! So who should this woman see to discuss and share her wishes? Should she talk to an attorney? Her financial planner? Or a funeral director? <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Who Should Record my Funeral Wishes? </span> </h3> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> There is a woman who once thought that she’d like to have a hologram made of her wearing an Obi-Wan Kenobi robe for her funeral. Her four sons grew up during the Star Wars era and similar to Obi-Wan, she would love to pass along the wisdom she acquired over her lifetime to those she loves. And yes, she would also like to have the last word! So who should this woman see to discuss and share her wishes? Should she talk to an attorney? Her financial planner? Or a funeral director? </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Both her attorney and financial planner suggested they could help but she wasn’t convinced based on her past experience. When her parents died the funeral was over before she even started to work on the finances and the estate. And there was so much attention paid to the final, final part…burial or cremation. She decided to contact her family funeral home and she met with Sue, the advance funeral planner. As it turns out, helping people get their funeral plans in place is Sue’s only job at the funeral home. And help this woman Sue did! </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> They talked about what this woman thought she wanted for her funeral plans. They talked a lot about her family – her husband, her four grown up sons, their wives and their children. Sue helped this woman see that although her sons would appreciate the Obi Wan idea, her husband would need something a little more traditional with a spiritual element. They talked about the cost and how she could keep that under control. They also talked about the burial and cremation options. Sue explained to the woman that if she wasn’t ready, she didn’t need to make a decision about burial or cremation. The woman ended up talking to her family about it and she was able to get her wishes recorded at the funeral home and she decided to use a payment plan. With her plan in place, she can go in and change her plans at any time (e.g. if she decides she wants to be cremated at a later date) and Sue will help her with that. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Sue also suggested the woman begin gathering those words of wisdom that she wants to share at her funeral and bring them to Sue so she can put them in the file. On the day of the woman’s funeral, the funeral directors will print these words of wisdom and hand them out to those attending the funeral. As it turns out, holograms aren’t available just yet, but Sue thinks they may be prior to this woman’s death. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> In the end, leaving the finances to the financial planner, the will &amp; estate planning to the attorney, and the funeral planning to the funeral home made the most sense for this woman. </span> </p> </div> Fri, 03 May 2024 22:01:16 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/who-should-record-my-funeral-wishes thumbnail main image https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/who-should-record-my-funeral-wishes- Fri, 03 May 2024 21:50:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/who-should-record-my-funeral-wishes- thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/make-family-the-foundation-for-funeral-planning There are two ways to take care of funeral planning: 1) you can plan your own funeral in advance or 2) your survivors can plan your funeral for you after your death. Regardless of when it is planned, or who plans the funeral, the planning needs to start with your family. Your family should be the foundation for funeral planning. <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Make Family the Foundation for Funeral Planning </span> </h3> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> There are two ways to take care of funeral planning: 1) you can plan your own funeral in advance or 2) your survivors can plan your funeral for you after your death. Regardless of when it is planned, or who plans the funeral, the planning needs to start with your family. Your family should be the foundation for funeral planning. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> After all, the funeral is not really for the deceased…it is for those who survive. We show respect for all human life in the manner in which we care for the body that housed the soul or spirit of our loved one. Respect and dignity for the body is important. The funeral helps those of us who survive by changing our focus from the cause of the death to the life that was lived. The funeral is the beginning of our grieving process and that is why funerals are so important. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> If you are planning in advance for your own final remembrance, begin by thinking of those who love you. Your spouse, your children, your grandchildren, your friends and even your co-workers, what will they remember? What will make them smile? What will comfort them? What will they need? When they think of you what will come to mind? How is faith a part of their lives? </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> If you are planning a funeral for a deceased family member, involve the children, grandchildren and even close friends in the process. Ask them how they remember their friend or relative. Remember, we have all had a unique relationship with the deceased, so what you want to remember may be different from what your brother remembers. Ask your funeral director for ideas so they can help you capture and express the unique personality of your family member in the service plan. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> For many years funeral planning started with a different set of questions. It started with questions about the faith. What church did your mother belong to? It followed with questions about the decedent’s wishes. What do you think your dad would want? These are still good valid questions but basing the entire funeral plan on only these aspects may not touch every family member. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Mother may have preferred that no one see her after death, but if you, her daughter, need to see her, speak up. If you don’t share your brother’s faith and you need to hear a eulogy that is all about his life or see pictures that bring back your time growing up together, speak up. The imprint of the funeral sticks with the surviving family. It is literally the last memory we carry of someone we loved. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Sat, 13 Apr 2024 21:59:25 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/make-family-the-foundation-for-funeral-planning thumbnail main image https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/make-family-the-foundation-for-funeral-planninge83f45e3 Sat, 13 Apr 2024 17:27:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/make-family-the-foundation-for-funeral-planninge83f45e3 thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/who-will-take-care-of-my-funeral-plans- Sat, 30 Mar 2024 23:03:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/who-will-take-care-of-my-funeral-plans- https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/who-will-take-care-of-my-funeral-plans It is not uncommon for people to ask themselves, “Since I never had any children, who will take care of my funeral plans?” That is all the more reason to preplan your own funeral! <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Who Will Take Care of My Funeral Plans? </span> </h3> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> It is not uncommon for people to ask themselves, “Since I never had any children, who will take care of my funeral plans?” That is all the more reason to preplan your own funeral! </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Each state has laws that say who will “own” your body when you die. The “owner” is responsible for making and paying for your funeral service and “final disposition”. Final disposition is simply what happens to your body in the end and those choices include burial, cremation or donation. Regardless of disposition, a funeral service with or without a religious component will take place before or after disposition. These are all choices the responsible person will make. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> If you are to be cremated, there is still the matter of what will be done with your cremated remains. They can be kept by a family member, scattered on private property, buried in a cemetery, or kept in a columbarium niche. Again, this is a choice the responsible person will need to make. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> In most states the responsible person is your spouse. When there is no legal marriage then your parent will be responsible. If your parents are deceased, then your child will take the lead. When there are no children then your eldest sibling will be responsible. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> As you can see, this system only works if you and your family are all of like mind regarding the funeral and you are on the same page regarding faith. Since this is not always the case, you can break the legal chain and designate a person of your choice to carry out your wishes. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> It’s not at all difficult or even expensive. You just need to call the funeral home of your choice, ask for an appointment with the person who does the pre-planning. Be sure to tell that individual that you want to designate someone to carry out your wishes. He or she will need to get the proper paperwork for you to complete this task. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> This is also a perfect time to talk to the pre-planning person at the funeral home about your ideas regarding both your funeral service and your final disposition. A funeral professional can help you get everything written down so that your designated person will know just what to do. Since this person will also bear the financial burden for your funeral service and burial or cremation, you will want to talk to the advance funeral planner about eliminating that burden by prefunding your plan. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Sat, 30 Mar 2024 20:59:19 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/who-will-take-care-of-my-funeral-plans thumbnail main image https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/get-your-family-involved-in-funeral-planning When death is near or has just occurred, there are so many things to do and yet there is nothing you can do. You feel helpless. You can’t make the person well or bring them back. But you know you will, very soon, need to make many decisions about the service, the final resting place, the music, food, flowers, donations, clothing and much more. Your mind is racing and oddly enough, at the same time, at a complete standstill. On one hand it feels like it is too soon to do anything. You’re just not ready. But at the same time, you feel the weight of all that is coming. <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Get Your Family Involved in Funeral Planning </span> </h3> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> When death is near or has just occurred, there are so many things to do and yet there is nothing you can do. You feel helpless. You can’t make the person well or bring them back. But you know you will, very soon, need to make many decisions about the service, the final resting place, the music, food, flowers, donations, clothing and much more. Your mind is racing and oddly enough, at the same time, at a complete standstill. On one hand it feels like it is too soon to do anything. You’re just not ready. But at the same time, you feel the weight of all that is coming. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> This is stress. It is hard. If you can, reach out to your family and friends and let them help you. Have your son or daughter get the older grandchildren involved in pulling together pictures and music. They are really good at this stuff. Going through the pictures brings back happy memories and it’s one of the most therapeutic chores that comes with funeral preparation. Let them do something that will help them – they are dealing with this loss too. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> If would you would like family and friends to donate to a charity, put someone in charge of looking into that. Have your daughter-in-law pull together a few clothing choices for your final selection. Send your son-in-law to the cemetery or have him get the cars washed. You may want to delegate the task of writing the eulogy and obituary. Give someone the job of gathering information for the funeral luncheon or brunch. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Spread the work around. Let go, embrace help and give them something to do. You’ll feel better that things are getting done and they’ll feel better because they are involved and helping. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com <span>  </span> </a> </p> </div> Sat, 16 Mar 2024 20:57:36 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/get-your-family-involved-in-funeral-planning thumbnail main image https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/get-your-family-involved-in-funeral-planninge7b34863 When death is near or has just occurred, there are so many things to do and yet there is nothing you can do. You feel helpless. You can’t make the person well or bring them back.  But you know you will, very soon, need to make many decisions about the service, the final resting place, the music, food, flowers, donations, clothing and much more. Your mind is racing and oddly enough, at the same time, at a complete standstill. On one hand it feels like it is too soon to do anything. You’re just not ready. But at the same time, you feel the weight of all that is coming.   This is stress. It is hard. If you can, reach out to your family and friends and let them help you. Have your son or daughter get the older grandchildren involved in pulling together pictures and music. They are really good at this stuff. Going through the pictures brings back happy memories and it’s one of the most therapeutic chores that comes with funeral preparation. Let them do something that will help them - they are dealing with this loss too.   If would you would like family and friends to donate to a charity, put someone in charge of looking into that. Have your daughter-in-law pull together a few clothing choices for your final selection. Send your son-in-law to the cemetery or have him get the cars washed. You may want to delegate the task of writing the eulogy and obituary. Give someone the job of gathering information for the funeral luncheon or brunch.   Spread the work around. Let go, embrace help and give them something to do. You’ll feel better that things are getting done and they’ll feel better because they are involved and helping. www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com Sat, 16 Mar 2024 20:23:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/get-your-family-involved-in-funeral-planninge7b34863 thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/how-much-do-funerals-cost- Sat, 02 Mar 2024 22:18:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/how-much-do-funerals-cost- https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/how-much-do-funerals-cost For most of us, one of our first questions when we think we need a funeral home soon is, “How much will it cost?” It’s understandable that everyone wants a simple answer to this question. Unfortunately, there is no one simple answer. <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> How Much Do Funerals Cost? </span> </h3> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> For most of us, one of our first questions when we think we need a funeral home soon is, “How much will it cost?” It’s understandable that everyone wants a simple answer to this question. Unfortunately, there is no one simple answer. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Think of the last time you bought a pair of shoes. It’s not really helpful to know that the average cost of a pair of shoes is $75.00. So, what does an “average” pair of shoes look like? Shoes come in many different sizes, colors and styles. You wouldn’t expect to call the shoe store and ask, “How much does a pair of shoes cost?” Everyone needs some help finding the right fit for his or her feet. You also understand that you’ll need to share more information about the kind of shoe you are seeking before you find the cost. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> It’s the same with funerals. The funeral you choose will need to fit your family’s needs as well as your budget. The funeral director will help you with both. You will be pleased to know funeral homes are required to have standardized prices for everything they do. This price list must be printed and available for you. You should also take comfort in knowing there will be a range of prices associated with the choices you will be making. The funeral director wants you to be satisfied with both the service you select and with the costs associated with those services. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> As soon as you are able, it is a good idea to call the funeral home and ask to set up a time to meet with a funeral director to review your options and prices. There should be no cost for this meeting. This is the best way to assure that you understand what is involved with the various services so that you can get the best value for your dollar. You can schedule this kind of meeting with as many funeral homes as you desire. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> At first, this may seem like a lot of work. The reality is, however, that you’ll obtain far more information by meeting with the funeral director versus searching online or making phone calls. You’ll save time, too. Don’t wait to set up that meeting if you think you’ll need a funeral home soon. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </span> </p> </div> Sat, 02 Mar 2024 21:56:07 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/how-much-do-funerals-cost thumbnail main image https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/funerals-are-for-saints-and-sinners7d8eca0f Sat, 17 Feb 2024 02:10:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/funerals-are-for-saints-and-sinners7d8eca0f thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/funerals-are-for-saints-and-sinners These days we’re hearing a lot about life celebrations. A funeral is a ceremony for someone who has died and the survivors. A celebration of life is a funeral with a celebratory feel and it may or may not have a faith-based component. Celebrating the life of the accomplished, the kind, and the generous feels natural. It feels like something we should do. <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Funerals are for Saints and Sinners </span> </h3> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> These days we’re hearing a lot about life celebrations. A funeral is a ceremony for someone who has died and the survivors. A celebration of life is a funeral with a celebratory feel and it may or may not have a faith-based component. Celebrating the life of the accomplished, the kind, and the generous feels natural. It feels like something we should do. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> On the other hand, what do we do about the “broken” people? The bullies, the addicted, the angry, or those who just never got it all together. What do we do when they die? Most of us have one or more imperfect people in our immediate circle. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> The loss of one of these folks is real and it hurts. Because they are gone, our lives will not be the same. We may be relieved of a burden, but we are also without hope. The hope that we will get a hug or a kind word is gone. The hope that a child will get sober and realize the potential you knew was there is gone. The hope that we will hear “I’m sorry” or understand the reason behind the addiction, the anger, or the hatred is now gone. It’s painful. Someone we love has died. Having a funeral will help. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> It can be hard to know just what to do when “celebration” doesn’t feel right. This may be especially true if a faith-based service does not feel like the right fit. Ask your funeral director for help. There are funeral celebrants who are not attached to a church who can help you find the right fit. Your funeral director can help you find the right person. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Funerals are always for the survivors. Regardless of how the deceased spent their time on this earth, survivors need to gather with each other and their friends. Everyone needs to share in a safe place. All survivors grieve. We all need the opportunity to begin our grief journey in a healthy way. A funeral, a ceremony for someone who has died, is the beginning of that journey. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/" target="_blank"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Fri, 16 Feb 2024 21:54:35 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/funerals-are-for-saints-and-sinners thumbnail main image https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/control-funeral-costs-by-planning-ahead How does planning for your funeral in advance save you money? Doesn’t it just let the funeral home make money on your money? How big a part should emotion play in your funeral selections? <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Control Funeral Costs By Planning Ahead </span> </h3> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> How does planning for your funeral in advance save you money? Doesn’t it just let the funeral home make money on your money? How big a part should emotion play in your funeral selections? </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> First, let’s be honest. Emotion is not a bad thing. Some life events should move us emotionally. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Marriage, birth, and death all appropriately tug at our heartstrings. But the cost of all three can also get out of hand if you make all the decisions when emotions are running high. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Put the word “wedding” in front of anything and the cost doubles. If you’ve ever planned a wedding you know that the dress will cost you half as much if you buy it far in advance instead of just before you need it. The same is true of funerals. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> When you and your spouse sit down together with the funeral director, well in advance, you’ll feel a little emotion as you consider the reality of your death. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> But that little tug is nothing compared to what your husband or wife will feel if you don’t prepare in advance and they’re making those decisions alone hours after you’ve died. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Emotional overspending happens. Funeral directors don’t make it happen. In fact, they don’t like it either. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Advance planning allows you to make all the decisions that determine the final cost. Making them together with cool heads and warm hearts saves dollars. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Planning ahead eliminates the excessive spending that can occur when someone is in a heightened emotional state. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Think back to wedding planning. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Starting early can also help you absorb the cost over a longer period of time. That means you don’t drag the wedding debt into your brand new marriage. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> When you plan your funeral in advance, you will also have the option of paying for it over time. That means you don’t have to take money from your savings or investments and your survivors won’t have the financial burden of paying for your funeral days after your passing. Advance planning eliminates the need for a lump sum payment when death occurs. </span> </p> <p> <span> All money set aside in advance for a funeral should be held with a third party. Nearly all funeral homes participate in programs that hold the dollars in either insurance or a trust product until the death occurs. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> The funeral home should not have access to your funds and the insurance products they use should have an increasing death benefit to help offset inflation, providing a cushion for increasing funeral costs. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Consult with an advance planning specialist for more details. </span> </p> </div> Fri, 02 Feb 2024 21:39:11 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/control-funeral-costs-by-planning-ahead thumbnail main image https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/control-funeral-costs-by-planning-ahead88875ff2 Fri, 02 Feb 2024 19:57:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/control-funeral-costs-by-planning-ahead88875ff2 thumbnail https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/where-should-i-send-my-condolences Condolences do matter and timing is important. Do not put off contacting your friend to express your sympathy. Options and opportunities may have changes over the decades, but the importance of reaching out to those suffering a loss has not. A call or a written note is always just right. Social media is just fine under some circumstances and a personal visit is lovely. Additionally, many funeral homes have a place on their website to post condolences. This format allows your expression of sympathy to be delivered privately and quickly. <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Where Should I Send My Condolences? </span> </h3> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Condolences do matter and timing is important. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> <span> Do not put off contacting your friend to express your sympathy. Options and opportunities may have changes over the decades, but the importance of reaching out to those suffering a loss has not. A call or a written note is always just right. Social media is just fine under some circumstances and a personal visit is lovely. Additionally, many funeral homes have a place on their website to post condolences. This format allows your expression of sympathy to be delivered privately and quickly.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> <span> So, let’s start with the newest trend – technology and social media. It’s so fast and so easy to access. If you are texting a co-worker several times a day about other things, it would seem rude to not mention the loss of her mother. Do use private messaging forms of social media with people you communicate with regularly in this manner. Caution!! Be very careful to not send a public condolence message using social media if your friend has not made an equally public announcement of his or her loss on the same platform. Do follow-up your message with a call or personal note. Finally, do not use electronic messaging if the receiver is not a regular user of tech.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Hand written notes or cards made for just this purpose should be mailed to the person closest to the deceased or to a personal friend who has experienced a loss. Your personal note should be simple. Thoughts such as you are sorry for their loss, you are thinking of them in this difficult time or they are in your thoughts and prayers are appropriate. If you knew the deceased, you might share a brief story about the person who died and shares your connection.    </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Should you make a condolence visit? Oh, my yes! A personal visit is the only way to give a hug. However, do call ahead. Do keep your visit brief and do focus on the grieving individual. Please, don’t say you know how they feel even if you share a similar experience. There will be a time for sharing later. For now, just let them know you are sorry for their loss. Come as a listener not a problem solver. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com"> www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com </a> </p> </div> Wed, 10 Jun 2020 22:04:31 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/where-should-i-send-my-condolences thumbnail main image https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/more-news Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Morbi hendrerit at libero ac convallis. Ut ut nisi vel justo pharetra cursus quis a ante. Ut sit amet odio at neque scelerisque eleifend. Nullam tellus erat, scelerisque eu tempor at, cursus vitae purus. Aenean magna nunc, sollicitudin eu urna in, semper efficitur lacus. In ultricies scelerisque nibh non vulputate. Vivamus pellentesque consectetur diam, ac dapibus eros viverra ac. Vivamus id sollicitudin quam. Sed sagittis a leo vel hendrerit. Quisque pellentesque purus vitae malesuada lobortis. Duis eu porttitor lacus. Fusce elementum ut massa ut aliquam. Thu, 19 Mar 2015 19:47:00 GMT https://www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com/more-news