Funeral Cost Secrets Revealed: a Guide to Understanding Burial and Cremation Expenses
A letter from Chris Tharp, Co-Owner of Tharp Funeral Home
At Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory our team prides itself on providing our client families with exceptional service at an affordable price. Time and time again we hear from families that they appreciate our transparency and willingness to clearly share complete cost information so that they can make informed decisions and not fall into the “emotional overspending” trap that can occur when complete pricing information is not readily shared.
In this spirit of simplicity and transparency, we are very proud to be among the first funeral homes in Virginia to introduce an online funeral cost estimator that enables families to build just the service packages they want while seeing the itemized price for each selection. This tool helps empower families to make informed decisions during an emotionally taxing period. With this focus on continuing to serve our client families better we invite you to use this cost estimator to build a service and merchandise plan that matches your family’s preferences and budget. Outlined below we will provide an overview of the cost drivers in funeral selections as well as provide a link to our itemized cost estimator.
We appreciate your trust in our local family company and Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory is proud to be the most often selected funeral home and crematory in our region.
Understanding Funeral Cost Basics: What Services to Expect
While funeral costs may fluctuate depending on factors such as location and individual service and merchandise preferences—with merchandise selections such as casket, vault, urn etc. often forming the greatest expense–there are fundamental service expenses that form the backbone of any funeral arrangement. Here is a breakdown of these basic services:
- 24/7 Availability : A compassionate and experienced team is always at hand to promptly address any needs or concerns.
- Family Consultation Conferences : Information, guidance, and support are provided by a licensed staff member in selecting services.
- Documentation Handling : Gathering vital statistics and preparing necessary paperwork for permits and certificates.
- Coordination : Seamless orchestration of service plans with various entities including clergy, cemeteries, florists, and musicians.
- Care and Shelter : Ensuring respectful and meticulous handling of the deceased based on familial wishes.
- Regulatory Compliance : Adherence to all legal and health regulations governing funeral practices.
- Support Services : Comprehensive assistance with administrative tasks and beyond.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Professional Services
In addition to the core services, funeral homes provide a range of optional professional services tailored to each family’s individual needs and preferences:
- Anatomical Donation : Minimal professional assistance for those opting for anatomical donation arrangements.
- Home Setup : Delivery and arrangement of essential items for home-based services.
- Estate Settlement Assistance : Personalized aid in navigating the complexities of benefit claims and insurance policies.
- Embalming : Optional service, often necessary for viewings or certain funeral arrangements.
- Specialized Care : Tailored services for autopsied remains, organ donors, and other special cases.
- Extended Care : Provision for extended care and preservation of remains awaiting interment.
In addition to the core and optional services, there are further considerations that may impact the overall cost of a funeral arrangement:
- Special Handling Fees : Additional charges for specific requests such as evening or weekend services or services that require additional staff members to handle or move the deceased’s remains.
- Pallbearers Fee : Compensation for staff members acting as pallbearers.
- Vital Statistics Courier Service : Assistance with obtaining and delivering necessary documents.
- Additional Mileage Charges : For services conducted outside a specified radius.
Navigating the Journey Together: Access to Transparent Pricing
At Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, we offer more than just a service; we provide solace and healing support during one of life’s most challenging times. With transparency, empathy, and professionalism at our core, we help guide our client families through the process of bidding farewell to their loved ones, ensuring dignity and respect every step of the way.
Estimating Your Cost
Having the foresight to preplan can equip you and your family in your time of need. Learn more here.
