How much does a funeral really cost? Even a basic funeral or memorial service costs upwards of several thousand dollars. Funeral costs are rapidly rising across the country, and this has placed a difficult financial burden on grieving families. The more you understand what goes into funeral costs, the better equipped you'll be to prepare, budget, and decide what's most important for you and your loved ones ..read more

There are many aspects of funerals designed to bring the family peace and comfort in their time of mourning. For many, music is one of the best forms of togetherness and remembrance. Funeral songs are used to bridge the gaps between generations, connect cultures, and even honor someone's life. Whether you're choosing the perfect funeral song or exploring other culture's funeral music, there's a whole world to discover ..read more

Reading a special passage, quote, or poem at a funeral or memorial sets the tone for the service. Finding the right words to say isn't always easy, so it's helpful to borrow from the masters of language. The right funeral reading can come from your favorite book, a famous author, or anywhere that inspires you. Most importantly, it's a way to reflect on your loss and your loved one's legacy ..read more

A memorial prayer is any prayer that reflects on life, loss, and remembrance. Though our loved ones aren't around forever, their memories stay with us for a lifetime and beyond. Funeral and memorial prayers honor this constant presence in our lives, reminding us that we can always find peace if we believe in our love. Each religion has its own prayers for honoring the dead and those who love them ..read more

Poetry has the power to describe the feelings that are hard to put into words. Some of the most beautiful verses ever penned have to do with death, dying, legacy, and remembrance. Perfect for honoring a life full of love, each poem connects to the reader in its own way. Poetry continues to be a common, popular choice for funeral and memorial services, and it's easy to see why ..read more

What you wear carries a lot of meaning. Not only is fashion a personal decision, but it can also be a sign of respect. When it comes to funeral and memorial attire, dressing for the occasion is a way to show the family you're there for them. While black is the typical color of mourning, there are no guarantees in our modern world. Families are free to choose the funeral attire that they feel best honors their loved one ..read more

Mexican Funerals: Traditions, Customs & What to Expect ..read more

By Erin Coriell, BA in Mass Communication/Media Studies ..read more

By Danielle Solomon, MA in Professional Writing ..read more

Veteran Death Benefits for Funerals & Family ..read more