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Funeral White Dove Release | Meaning, Cost and More

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 05:00:00 GMT

Planning a funeral for a loved one, or even pre-arranging a funeral service for yourself, is an intricate process that takes thoughtful reflection and planning. From start to finish, a funeral should honor the person’s spirit and their irreplaceable value in their loved ones’ lives. There are various ways to plan a funeral service that allows for this level of personalization while celebrating the person’s life, dreams, accomplishments and legacy.

One such practice is a white dove release for funerals, which is meant to represent a final farewell between loved ones and the departed. Releasing white doves may be the perfect way to honor your loved one. The following information includes everything you need to know about the meaning of releasing doves at a funeral, the associated costs and the implications of the practice.

What Do White Doves Represent at Funerals?

In a variety of contexts, white doves are seen as symbols of purity, peace and freedom. This overwhelmingly positive image assumes an even deeper meaning in the context of white dove release at funerals.

When white doves are released at funerals, they can signify family and friends’ release of their loved one’s physical presence on Earth. This practice can even represent the start of the grieving process. As the doves take flight from their basket, friends and family may imagine their loved one’s spirit moving on to the next realm, free from the bondage of sickness, old age or difficulties that they faced during their life.

How Many Doves Should You Release?

It’s worth noting that the meaning behind the white dove release can change based on the number of doves released. For instance, if you choose to release just one dove, it can represent the person’s soul departing on a new spiritual journey. However, two doves could represent the departed being accompanied by a spiritual guide to what awaits in the afterlife. Lastly, a larger group of doves for funerals can be seen as a general celebration of the person’s life.

Is a White Dove Release Expensive?

Whether the white dove release is the best choice for you or your loved one also depends on the funeral’s budget. The number of doves, as well as any decorations, music or props that accompany them, will directly impact the price. On average, a pair of white doves will cost around $150, with some companies offering different packages (i.e., 8 doves for $175 or 21 doves for $250).

The doves are typically released from wicker baskets that are included in the offer. Some packages will even allow family members to release one or two doves prior to the larger dove release. Allowing close friends and family to release the dove — or doves — adds a level of intimacy to the practice that makes it even more meaningful. Overall, the prices for the white dove release range from around $100 for a single dove to $250+ for more doves.

Are White Doves Associated With Religion?

Yet another aspect that makes a white dove release a fitting practice for funerals is that white doves are symbolically meaningful across many religions. They are not associated with one religion or form of spirituality more than another. In this way, white doves have come to be universal signs of peace, hope and sanctity for all.

That being said, a white dove release may have a slightly different meaning for various funerals, depending on each person’s religious affiliation. For example, in Christianity, white doves are often a symbol of the Holy Spirit. In Islam, white doves can represent divine intervention and assistance, while in Judaism, they are signs of vibrant life. In Paganism, doves most often represent Inanna-Ishtar, the goddess of love.

The History of White Dove Release at Funerals

Originating about 5,000 years ago, white dove release is a historical practice that has its roots in Egypt. However, the practice was not limited to Egypt — white doves soon became a popular and impactful symbol across the globe. In fact, they were used in Greek, Roman, European and Chinese cultures in a number of settings.

For weddings, Ancient Greek and Roman grooms would give their bride a dove to represent the promise to care for her family. However, for funerals, a white dove release typically signified the spirit’s flight back “home” after their passing. This message has persisted, evolving to accommodate different cultures’ beliefs throughout the years. Regardless of the variations, the practice continues to carry a positive, hopeful connotation around the world.

The Doves’ Well-Being

If you plan to use doves at a funeral, it’s important to ensure that they are kept and released in the best conditions possible. First, know that the doves are trained to return to their “home,” or the place that they are kept. Trained doves can easily make their way back home after a release — their homing abilities span over 600 miles. That being said, it’s essential to choose a reputable dove handler that has plenty of experience working with and releasing doves.

It’s equally important to note that doves cannot navigate home after dark. For this reason, they should only be released during the daytime, when they have plenty of visibility. Lastly, in order to protect the doves from danger, consider the season in which you are planning to release them. Remember that birds of prey are more likely to be present in the late fall and winter, so, ideally, doves should be released in the spring and summer.

Is the White Dove Release Right For You?

Each of the factors above can help you decide if a white dove release is the right choice for your or your loved one’s funeral service. Think about your budget, how many doves you can afford to release and whether a dove release will suit the tone of the funeral. If you would like to include an interactive element in the service, a dove release can be an impactful way to engage close friends and family. Moreover, releasing a dove — or multiple doves — can be a gentle way to start the grieving process for all who are in attendance. To incorporate a symbol of purity, hope, love and freedom into the service, a white dove release may be the right choice for you.

San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home Can Ease Your Burden

Planning a beautiful, respectful funeral service for yourself or your loved one can be an overwhelming process. But, don’t worry; our compassionate team at San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home is here to help. Our highly experienced staff can make a difficult time easier for you and your family while staying within your budget and respecting your wishes.

If you are considering pre-planning a service or you’re currently planning a service for your loved one around Queen Creek, AZ, connect with our team at San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home . If you have questions and need some guidance, we’re here for you. Fill out our simple contact form or give us a call at (480) 888-2682 today.

Everything You Need to Know About Crypts

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 05:00:00 GMT

There are times in life when we all feel uncertain — and this can be particularly true during times of deep emotional stress. Understanding all of the choices surrounding the final phase of life can feel overwhelming. Our staff at San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home continually look for ways to ensure you understand the various options that are available. With aboveground burial becoming increasingly popular in recent years, crypts may be a consideration for your friend or family member’s final resting place. However, it’s not unusual to have questions about how a crypt interment differs from a ground burial or cremation. This helpful guide provides you the information you need to think through this important decision with your loved ones.

What Are Crypts Used For?

A crypt is a structure that is often placed inside a cemetery, meant to provide a final resting place for remains that have either been placed in a casket or cremated remains that are in an urn. This flexibility allows families to make different decisions about the disposition of their remains, yet still remain together as a family unit inside one structure. This above-ground method of entombment provides a secure location that can be quite serene, offering loved ones a physical structure that can be visited to pay their respects to those who have passed.

How Are Bodies Placed in Crypts?

Bodies can be placed in crypts in a multitude of ways, with companion units being a popular selection. Companion units are designed to store two casketed remains together in the same space. These units can be designed to either have the spaces side-by-side or end-to-end, depending on the size of the crypt and the preferred location of the remains. After a memorial service, the casket will be interred into the crypt, often with a final blessing or prayer with the inner circle of loved ones. Crypts will have a memorial plaque or inscription in the granite of the crypt with personalized details about your loved ones.

Inside the crypt, there are drain holes located in the bottom corners with vents located in the top corners of each space. This allows a free flow of air throughout the space. Caskets are placed inside the crypt then enclosed with a type of metal shutter. A final exterior layer of material is made of either marble or granite and is the front-facing portion of the crypt.

Burial Crypts Have a Long and Fascinating History

Starting in the early Christian period, crypts were used extensively — starting with St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome . With tombs resting directly below the high altar in this vaunted church, it was quite easy to see why the practice quickly caught on and spread throughout Europe as a preferred method for maintaining final remains. While underground crypts were used extensively in the Middle Ages, aboveground crypts are much more popular in the U.S. today. Today’s crypts are inside mausoleums, which can be quite intricate in their design and decorations. Crypts are generally built from concrete, marble or other durable materials that are meant to stand the test of time.

You might be surprised to learn that the Taj Mahal is actually a mausoleum . Well-known as one of the most stunning and romantic buildings in the world, the Taj Mahal is also one of the most ornate mausoleums in the world. Built to honor the favorite wife of Emperor Shah Jahan, the Taj Mahal building effort was initiated in 1632 but wasn’t completed until nearly two decades later. Interring loved ones in a crypt is still considered to be a unique testament to the love and affection that was shared throughout the years.

What is the Difference Between a Mausoleum and a Crypt?

Mausoleums may be either private or open to the public, with the latter being less expensive. Mausoleums can be found indoors, outside or in a tranquil garden environment. We created a guide on this difference between mausoleums and crypts some time ago, which goes into detail on the differences. Briefly, the term ‘crypts’ refers to the individual burial chambers that are located inside a mausoleum. Mausoleums exist in a variety of formations and can be single-family, multi-family or even community-based groupings of crypts. These protective buildings offer your loved ones’ remains a sanctuary from the elements, as well as a way for family members and friends to maintain the history of their family over generations.

Crypts Are a Popular Resting Place for Families

With the space necessary to house several families or even generations together, crypts are considered ideal for those with extended families. This out-of-ground burial alternative also provides additional benefits, such as reduced costs associated with creating a final resting place for your loved ones’ remains. While a casket is still required as with a ground burial, the heavier vault may or may not be required. There are no opening and closing charges as there are with a burial, and the cost of the memorial may be lessened as well.

How Much Does a Burial Crypt Cost?

It is impossible to provide a true estimate due to the variety of factors involved in funeral planning. The best option is to begin planning early, speaking with our friendly and compassionate funeral directors. They are always available to help you define the ideal solution for your unique needs and budget. There are several factors that can influence the cost of a burial crypt for your loved one:

Type of final memorial that you select
Personalized service or interment
Cost of the casket
Location of the mausoleum
Whether the mausoleum is indoors, outdoors or private
Type of crypt
Additional options that are selected

With so many factors to consider, most families work closely with their funeral director to ensure they fully understand how to proceed. This important decision, and many more, are addressed with care and consideration by the support staff at San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home . We have been helping families throughout the region make the final choices that bring peace and closure after a loss. Contact us at any time by calling 480-888-2682 or by sending an email to wecaresantan@mvfuneralhome.com to schedule time with one of our compassionate funeral directors. From pre-planning your final memorial to personalized services , we are confident that your loved one will receive the respectful final farewell that they deserve.

Pre-Arranging Funeral Plans | Where to Start

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 05:00:00 GMT

Although it may seem like a daunting task, pre-planning your funeral is a wise decision that will lessen the emotional and financial burdens on your loved ones. Moreover, pre-arranging your funeral will ensure that your personal preferences are satisfied, from the location and type of materials to the music and guests who are invited to the service.

While planning key aspects of your funeral service can be beneficial, remember that it’s okay to leave some things undecided. At the end of the day, any details that you can offer your family about your ideal funeral service will be helpful and offer valuable guidance throughout a difficult time. The following information offers a detailed look at how to pre-plan a funeral service, from location and budgeting to the importance of communication with loved ones.

Do Your Research

The first step to pre-planning a funeral is to learn what your options are and determine which kind of service best suits your needs and preferences. After all, the more educated you are about your choices, the more confident you will be when planning your own service. Start by doing your homework — have any aspects of your funeral already been planned? Perhaps a family member generously purchased a cemetery plot for you years ago, but you haven’t thought about it since. Even though most people assume that nothing about their funeral service has been pre-planned, it’s worth taking a closer look to avoid paying for certain services or materials that you simply don’t need.

Consult with family members first to make sure that everyone is on the same page about what has or hasn’t been purchased for your service. Once you know whether or not any aspects of your funeral are already planned, it’s time to start considering what you would like your service to include. Of course, one of the first questions to ask yourself is whether you would prefer a classic burial, cremation or to donate your body to science.

Deciding Between Cremation, Burial, and Donation

While many people continue to associate funerals with traditional burial services, recent statistical trends show a rise in cremation rates in the United States. In fact, according to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), more and more Americans are opting for “non-traditional” burials, with a cremation rate of 56% in 2020. Classic burials, on the other hand, accounted for 37.5% of funeral services in 2020, with the remaining 6.5% representing alternative methods including the donation of the body to science.

When deciding whether a classic burial, cremation or perhaps donation to science is the best decision for you, most people base their decision on 2 primary factors: potential religious affiliation and finances.

Religious Considerations and Cremation

Certain religions do not condone cremation — the Islamic and Jewish faiths, in particular, look down on the practice. Muslims are actually expected to bury individuals on the day of their death and consider cremation to be an unclean practice. Furthermore, Muslims are forbidden to attend, approve of or participate in cremation.

Similarly, many Jewish people condemn the practice of cremation, as Jewish law insists that the dead be buried in the ground. On top of that, cremation was historically associated with paganism, which the Torah urges Jewish people to reject. However, of the 3 branches of Judaism — Reform, Orthodox and Conservative — the Reform branch does technically allow cremation and more Jewish people are starting to choose cremation for their funeral service.

For these reasons and more, cremation may not be the most suitable choice for you if you identify as Muslim, Jewish, Mormon or even Greek and Russian Orthodox Christian, as these groups have historically been opposed to cremation.

Budgeting for a Funeral or Cremation

Many people choose cremation over traditional burial today because of its advantageous cost. While a classic burial can range anywhere from $5,000-$15,000, a cremation is significantly less expensive . Common cremation costs range between $2,000-$10,000, with the higher figures including optional funeral home add-ons.

Depending on the type of funeral that you choose, it’s also important to think about the type of casket or urn that you would like to have. Choosing a casket or cremation urn that you like can take a weight off of your loved ones later, as they will know that you were satisfied with your choice. It’s worth noting that the price of a burial or cremation does vary depending on the state that a person lives in, so it can be helpful to take a look at local options before making a decision about cremation or burial. Finally, when making your funeral plans and purchasing prepaid services and materials, save your receipts, as your expenses could be tax-deductible on a future tax return.

Communicate With Family

There’s no doubt that pre-planning a funeral service can be a complex — and at times, overwhelming — process. However, for all of the arrangements that you can make to ensure that your funeral service is exactly the way you want, the most important step is communicating those desires to your family and loved ones. While you may pre-purchase a casket, choose a funeral director, pick out musical selections and more, your family members are the ones who will be working to combine all of these elements for a tasteful, respectful service that honors your memory.

The most impactful way that you can help your family satisfy your personal preferences is to let them know early on how you envision your service. Consider writing your family a detailed letter with guidance for your funeral service, or include details in your will.

Choosing a Funeral Home and Director

Last but not least, one of the most crucial aspects of pre-planning a funeral is choosing where you would like to have your service and if you would like to work with a specific funeral home . Consider visiting a few different funeral homes to get an idea of which location and staff are the best fit for you. While there, feel free to ask any questions that you may have about pre-arranging a funeral service, cremation vs. burial options, specific services that the funeral home offers and more.

With years of experience helping individuals just like you pre-arrange respectful and beautiful funeral services, San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home in Queen Creek, AZ is honored to guide you through this process. For more information about pre-planning a funeral service or planning an imminent service, connect with our friendly and knowledgeable team by calling (480) 888-2682 or filling out our quick contact form today.

Open vs. Closed Casket Funeral | What To Expect

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT

In the aftermath of losing a loved one, you are likely experiencing a whirlwind of emotions. Not only are you trying to process your own personal grief, but you also are trying to fulfill the wishes of someone who meant so much to you. As you begin to navigate the process of finalizing the arrangements, know that you can rely on our staff to help you make informed, thoughtful decisions about your loved one’s funeral .

One decision that many people have to make is choosing between an open or closed casket for the funeral. This guide will provide you with more information about open and closed caskets, and what to expect from each experience.

Open Casket Funerals: What You Need to Know

In an open-casket funeral, the casket remains ajar allowing those in mourning to view the body. Some people feel that an open casket funeral allows them to stay more physically connected to their loved one. Others have said that an open-casket funeral gives them more closure. However, an open-casket funeral is not the best option for everyone. It is important that you consider your own personal circumstances as well as the wishes of your loved one as you decide between an open-casket funeral and a closed-casket funeral.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Open-Casket Funeral

There are many factors that you may want to consider if you are deciding between an open-casket funeral and a closed-casket funeral, such as:

When the funeral will take place. An open-casket funeral typically has to take place within a few days or a week after the person’s death. If the funeral is not going to take place for a longer period of time, then the body may not be able to be preserved well enough to host an open-casket funeral.
The preferences of the person who died. Many people plan their funeral services in advance, and your loved one may have expressed a preference for an open-casket funeral prior to their death. In this event, most people abide by the wishes of their deceased loved one if possible.

Understanding Open Casket Protocols

In an open-casket funeral, the upper half of the person’s body is in view. After the body arrives at the funeral home, it is embalmed and readied for viewing by a mortician. An experienced and professional mortician will strive to make the individual appear as they did when they were alive, which allows those in mourning to feel closer to the person that they loved.

It is important to have an idea of what to expect when you are planning and attending an open-casket funeral. For family members and guests, the moment when they view the body for the first time is often an emotional one. Typically, immediate family members are given a private time when they can view the body, allowing them the space they need to grieve.

Etiquette generally requires people to view the body without touching it. It is polite to keep any comments about the appearance of the body to yourself. While the mortician can work tirelessly to maintain the individual’s likeness, there are going to be some differences that you may notice. It may be hurtful to other family members or guests if you comment on the body or the way that it looks in the casket.

If at all possible, many people prefer open casket funerals because it allows them to feel as if their loved one is still with them for another brief moment. It can often bring a sense of closure that cannot be achieved through a closed-casket funeral.

Closed Casket Funerals: What You Need to Know

In a closed-casket funeral, the casket remains closed during the viewing and the funeral service. Family members and guests are not able to see the body, and some prefer this option for a variety of reasons. It is important to feel comfortable with your own decision, particularly if you are respecting the wishes of your loved one.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Closed Casket Funeral

If you are planning a funeral for your loved one, you may want to consider the following factors before making your final decision:

The condition of the person’s body. The cause of death may have an impact on the appearance of the body and could necessitate the need for a closed-casket funeral. In some cases, a severe illness may have altered the person’s appearance, and they may not wish to be remembered in that way. In other cases, the death may have been caused by a traumatic event, and it may not be possible to display the body in an open casket. Funeral home staff members will work with you to determine if the condition of the body is suitable for an open-casket funeral, or if it would be best to opt for a closed-casket funeral.
The religious or cultural beliefs of the individual who died. A person’s religious beliefs are deeply personal and often have a significant impact on their funeral proceedings. Some cultures or faiths require a closed-casket funeral, and it is important to take these factors into consideration when planning a funeral for someone you love.

Understanding Closed Casket Funeral Protocols

A closed-casket funeral is sometimes required due to the condition of the body or cause of death, and it is sometimes preferred by the family of the loved one due to religious or cultural reasons. Regardless of the reason for choosing a closed-casket funeral, it is important that you know what to expect when planning or attending a closed-casket funeral.

In a closed-casket funeral, the body is not able to be seen during the viewing or the funeral service. The casket will be closed the entire time, but that does not mean that people have to distance themselves from the body of their loved one. Visitors at a closed casket funeral are still encouraged to pay their respects to the body and stand, kneel or pray in close proximity to it.

If a family does opt for a closed-casket funeral, it is not polite to question their reasons. This can be a difficult decision to finalize, and they may not want to provide details as to why they made that choice. While some believe that an open-casket funeral offers more closure, others feel that a closed-casket funeral helps them accept the finality of the loss that they are experiencing.

At San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home , we understand that this is a challenging experience that can be overwhelming at times. Please know that you do not have to make these decisions on your own. Our qualified and experienced staff members will work closely with you and help you understand your options. We want you to feel confident in your decisions so that you can feel comfortable grieving your loved one as you honor their wishes.

Feel free to contact us at any time with any questions that you have about the funeral planning process. We look forward to serving you at San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home .

What to Consider When Choosing a Mausoleum As a Burial Option

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 17:21:00 GMT

There are many elements to consider when planning a funeral, whether in the pre-planning stages or in the event of the death of a loved one. One of these elements is the determination of where your loved one’s remains will be interred. While many people choose traditional burial or even cremation, you should not rule out a mausoleum as an option for the storage of your loved one’s remains.

While all of the choices may feel overwhelming, at San Tan Mountain Funeral Home, we understand that discussions about death and funeral services can be highly emotional. Allow the qualified staff of our family-owned and operated business to help you skillfully determine if a mausoleum is an appropriate choice for the entombment of your loved one’s remains. You may have many questions about this option. We will try to answer some of these questions below.

What is the Definition of a Mausoleum?

A mausoleum is a unique type of above-ground entombment. This type of burial has been used throughout the world for thousands of years. Throughout history, mausolea were constructed as large structures to celebrate and honor the death of a person with great power or wealth.

The term actually can be traced back to the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus in Turkey. This famous mausoleum holds the body of King Mausolus, who was buried by his wife in a building that resembled a temple around 353 BC. The body of King Mausolus was laid to rest on a stone platform surrounded by stone columns and is considered to be the first mausolea ever built and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Taj Mahal in India and Castel Sant’Angelo in Rome are additional examples of famous mausoleums.

In the modern world, however, mausoleums are chosen by many as a way to preserve the legacy and honor the memory of their loved ones. Mausoleums are popular in today’s world by people from many different religious backgrounds and ethnicities. Members of the Islamic faith commonly build elaborate monuments to honor their deceased loved ones and members of the Jewish faith follow the ancient tradition of above-ground burial in mausoleums. While this method of burial is less popular in those of the Christian faith, it has become more widely selected in recent years.

Burial decisions are often a matter of family tradition and preference, however, mausoleums can be a practical choice in some cities where population density makes above-ground entombment a more natural choice because of space concerns and/or the cost of property in an area.

How Do They Work?

A mausoleum houses what are known as crypts. A crypt is technically a small room within the mausoleum where a casket or cremation urn is stored. These crypts are not rooms in the traditional sense as they are only large enough to store a casket or urn that holds the remains of your loved one. Each crypt is sealed from both the inside and the outside to protect the remains from the elements and provide a clean and dry method of burial. Depending on the type of mausoleum chosen, the crypt is either permanently sealed or sealed so that it can be reopened in the future.

What Mausoleum Options are Available at San Tan Mountain Funeral Home?

There are different types of mausoleums available at San Tan Mountain Funeral Home. Each of these types of mausoleums has benefits and there are options available at various price points. Our professional staff is ready to help you determine which of the following options is best for your loved one.

Public Mausoleums

Public mausoleums contain the tombs of multiple individuals inside of one structure. A public mausoleum is probably most akin to a public cemetery. A public mausoleum allows anyone to be entombed within its walls. These mausoleums are designed to accommodate visitors, allowing family members and friends to visit their loved ones at any time. Many public mausoleums also offer columbarium niches for the storage of cremated remains.

Mountain View’s Desert Star Chapel Mausoleum is a completely indoor mausoleum with both crypts (the vault within the mausoleum that holds the remains) and niches. It is a beautiful large structure that affords areas for committal and graveside services. We have both niches and crypts available in our public mausoleums at San Tan Mountain Funeral Home within The New Wall of Peace I, II and III, beautiful structures that have a covered and gated meditation area.

Private Mausoleums

Unlike a public facility, a private mausoleum houses only one family. Private mausoleums are lasting structures used for the entombment of family or group members. Private mausoleums can accommodate a variety of individual preferences, including traditional burial and cremation. Private mausoleums are beautifully designed to reflect a family’s unique heritage and create a permanent tribute to lives well-lived. These can be found either on private property (like the mausoleum that houses the remains of the late Princess Diana of Wales) or on land purchased within a cemetery.

Garden Mausoleum

A garden mausoleum is a mausoleum that is located outdoors rather than indoors. This type of mausoleum often contains niches for cremated remains in addition to traditional burial sites. This type of mausoleum is a good choice for the nature lover, as these spaces are often beautifully landscaped. The unique landscaping features and the beautiful outdoor environment of a garden mausoleum make this a desirable choice for many people. At San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home, there are four mausoleums named, Hope, Prayer, Faith and Charity that adjoin gardens of the same name. Mountain View also has seven other outside mausoleums. A few of these mausoleums still have some open crypts and niches available.

Companion Crypts

Companion crypts are another popular choice for private and peaceful above-ground entombment. These crypts come in a variety of designs and materials, and arrangement can be either vertical or side by side. Single- to six-crypt preassembled private mausoleums are available for placement on your own cemetery site.

How Much Does a Mausoleum Cost?

When it comes time for the burial or entombment of a loved one, there are a variety of associated costs. Understanding the various costs associated with planning can be overwhelming. However, there are mausoleums at multiple price ranges that allow families the choice of many affordable options. Mausoleum entombment also eliminates many burial expenses and decisions and does not require an outer burial container to be purchased. Public Mausoleum options are likely the most affordable choice of all the alternatives.

Whether you are considering burial in a family mausoleum or a community mausoleum for your loved ones, our caring and helpful staff at San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home and Advanced Planning Center can assist you with any questions that you may have. We understand that choosing a final resting place for your family is an important decision. We are here to help you make the right choice for you and your loved ones. Call us today at (480) 832-2850, or toll-free at 1 (866) 684-1951. We welcome the opportunity to help you create a legacy for your family.

Breakdown of Funeral Costs in Arizona

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 12:00:00 GMT

Understanding the various costs associated with planning a funeral can be overwhelming. Whether you are thinking ahead and budgeting for a future expense or managing the current costs of a funeral, the subsequent financial stress can be a heavy burden. However, when taken step by step, planning a funeral and understanding the related costs is a manageable task. Ultimately, becoming educated on all of the available options will help you choose the right kind of service for yourself or your loved one.

There are numerous ways to plan a funeral that is tailored to your budget. The necessary cost allocation varies based on the state that the funeral is held in, the type of equipment used, services requested, and more. For example, Arizona has notably lower funeral costs than most other American states, with the average funeral coming to $6,681, whereas the national average is $7,360 and up. Data shows that funeral costs have gone up 227% in the last 30 years , which is almost twice the national inflation rate. While this exponential rise is due to multiple factors, the prices are generally lower in Arizona because many residents choose to be cremated. The following information provides an in-depth look at the costs of a funeral in Arizona.

Transportation and Preparation Costs

The first expense to consider when budgeting for a funeral is the cost to transport the deceased. This is typically unavoidable, seeing as the body will need to be moved to the funeral home, church, or burial site. While some states do allow individuals to transport the deceased, the state of Arizona requires that a licensed professional fulfill these services. A funeral home can typically arrange for displacement for a fee of around $250 each way, depending on the length of travel. Of course, if the deceased must be transported across state lines or overseas, the costs will rise accordingly.

Once transportation has been taken care of, it is time to consider the expense of preparing for the funeral and/or visitation service. These preparations include but are not limited to the embalming of the body, cosmetology, dressing, casketing, and washing or disinfecting. Embalming alone can cost around $700, while cosmetology, restoration, and preservation may be up to $500, depending on what is required. The services provided by a mortician are extensive and ensure that the body is in the proper condition for the steps that follow.

Choosing the Right Type of Service

A funeral service can be carried out in a variety of locations, depending on the family’s preferences. If you choose to hold a funeral within a church, there is typically no cost if the family belongs to that church. However, this does not necessarily mean that there is no allocation of funds involved — rather, it is standard to give a donation of some sort to the host church. On top of that, keep in mind that there will invariably be transportation costs to move the body to your location of choice.

Of course, another common option is to use a funeral home. While funeral homes eliminate the need for additional transportation, they subsequently add on facility and staff costs which can cost around $500. What is more, those who opt for a funeral home service will likely be offered several add-on packages such as flowers, programs, and video tributes, which can cost hundreds of dollars.

An alternative option for those who prefer not to have a funeral in a church or funeral home is to have it at an outdoor space or within a home. While this private option would require transportation of the deceased, it is otherwise very low-cost or even free.

Caskets and Containers

The next — and often, the most costly — part of planning a funeral is related to the burial. In the case of a traditional burial, it is necessary to purchase a casket. Most funeral homes will offer a wide range of casket options that range from a standard metal casket (usually around $2,500) to more luxurious options that can cost up to $10,000. This choice can be based purely on the family’s preference, what they believe will look best at the service, or perhaps what they think the deceased would have liked. There is no hard-and-fast rule for which casket is best for your loved one.

Finally, families should account for the expense of a grave liner or burial vault — the outer container that houses the casket and keeps the grave from sinking. Grave liners, which only cover the top and sides of the casket, are a more economic option, ranging from $700-$1,000. Burial vaults encase the casket entirely, like a second casket. These can be costly, ranging from $900-$10,000.

Compared to traditional burials, cremations are a cost-effective option. Cremation forgoes embalming costs, though families will need to pay for the cremation itself as well as a container for their loved one’s remains. The average cost of a direct cremation is $600 — this means that the deceased is cremated soon after death, without opportunity for viewing.

Burial Plot and Marker Costs

Once the casket and burial vault or grave liner is accounted for, families will need to purchase a burial plot in the cemetery or graveyard of their choice. Though the terms are often used interchangeably, graveyards are associated with a church while cemeteries are public burial grounds. Purchasing a burial plot typically costs around $1,000, but fees vary based on location and the population of an area.

A grave marker is a touching way to commemorate the deceased. Families may choose a standard headstone engraved with their loved one’s name, birth, and death dates, and even a touching quote, but they also come in a variety of other forms and styles. The possibilities are endless when it comes to grave markers — any style, size, shape, and material is available based on your taste. The average cost of a headstone in the United States is around $2,000, but this figure can be significantly reduced or inflated based on what the family is looking for.

In the case of cremation, families often purchase a special urn or container, which can cost as little as $50 or up to hundreds of dollars.

Receptions

Following a visitation or funeral service, it is standard for the family to offer a reception for extended family and/or guests. This is an opportunity for friends and family to commune — typically in a lighter atmosphere — and tell stories or share pictures of the recently deceased.

The reception should be factored into funeral costs, given that they often feature a shared meal. Consider the number of people that might attend the reception and budget the cost of food and drink accordingly.

This general summary highlights the main expenses of a funeral in Arizona, but if you are seeking more information and guidance, the experienced professionals at San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home are ready to assist you. Our compassionate team can help ease your burden through a time of loss as well as help you plan for the future. We are available 24 hours a day on the phone — simply call San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home at 480-888-2682 or fill out our quick contact form today.

What to Include When Writing an Obituary

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 12:00:00 GMT

If you’re expecting or already grieving the loss of a loved one, let us be the first to share our sincere condolences. Writing an obituary after losing your loved one can feel incredibly daunting, but most of our clients share that with our support and guidance, writing the obituary ended up being therapeutic and a welcome task during an otherwise challenging time. We hope this guide helps.

The purpose of the obituary

First, let’s talk about the purpose of the obituary. In it’s simplest form, an obituary serves to inform others of the death and share important details surrounding the viewing and funeral service. However, most obituaries also serve to provide a meaningful biography of sorts, summarizing the life and legacy of the decedent for loved ones now and in the future.

Before you get started

Whether you’re writing the obituary yourself or working with the funeral home to write it, the first step is gathering important information to include. Things you might want to know include:

full name, date of birth and death, place of birth and death, age at the time of death, cause of death (if the family chooses to include it), and where he or she lived when they passed away
a summary of their life: where they grew up and went to school, the full names of their parents (including mother’s maiden name), who they married and when, the names of their children, where they lived throughout different stages of their lives, their education, religion, and their career history
any significant contributions he or she made during the course of life, such as volunteerism, major donations, or community projects
his or her interests and hobbies; how they passed their free time and made memories with loved ones
favorite memories or stories about your loved one
a list of both living and deceased relatives, including parents, grandparents, spouse, children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and step-family members (as well as the first name of any partners of these relatives)
date, time, and location of the viewing, funeral, and burial services
organizations the family has agreed upon for donations in lieu of flowers

Be sure to reach out to other family members who may remember different stories or facts to include.

Writing the obituary

The first paragraph of an obituary is the announcement of death. Here’s an example: “With great sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Aaron James Johnson, 82, on Monday, August 24th, 2020, at Jamestown General Hospital.”

The body of the obituary includes details of the decedent’s life, generally in chronological order: when, where, and to whom they were born; details about their childhood and teen years; post-secondary history like where they went to college, when they met their spouse, where they worked, and details surrounding their children, if they had any; career details and information about where they lived and what they did; and then the details of their passing if you choose to share.

Many families elect to use the obituary to further an important cause that contributed to the death of their loved one: cancer research, a religious message, or the need for better mental health or addiction services. Other families choose to keep sensitive subjects private and don’t include them in the obituary. There is no right or wrong approach; whatever feels the most right for you and your loved ones and brings you the most peace as you grieve and celebrate the life of the decent is the approach you should take.

The paragraph following the life story should summarize family: first those your loved one was survived by and then those your loved one was predeceased by. List children, grandchildren, and siblings in order of date of birth and list any spouses’ first names in parentheses immediately following the family member’s name, like this: Jane (Eric) Biel. It is okay to include or exclude pets depending on their role in the life of the decedent.

Next, share the details of the memorial. When and where is the memorial service? When and where is the reception? Share the place of internment and provide a phone number to call for more information, even if there isn’t a service planned.

The final paragraph is the closing and usually includes any memorial funds that have been established in the decedent’s honor, suggestions for memorial donations, and acknowledgment to those who have been most helpful during and after the passing (like ambulance, hospital, or long-term care staff), if applicable.

Checking for errors and omissions

Writing the obituary is often considered an honor and supports the healing process after the loss of a loved one. Although not everyone can write the obituary, involving family members in any way possible can help them feel as if they contributed and support their healing, too. One way to include more people is to ask a few family members to proofread the obituary, not only for grammatical or spelling errors but also for errors and omissions surrounding your loved one’s life story and family.

Be sure to have at least one family member, in addition to the team at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery, proofread the obituary. While your team at the funeral home should catch grammatical errors or misspellings, they’re less likely to catch a great story that you missed telling or an affiliation with a charity that meant a lot and isn’t mentioned. You need family for that.

The short obituary

Newspapers typically charge per word when publishing obituaries. For this reason, some families choose a short obituary to reduce word count and manage funeral expenses. All of the guidelines above apply in this case, but the life story is left out, leaving the obituary to look like this:

announcement of death
family, both survived by and predeceased by
details of the memorial service
memorial funds and donation suggestions

To learn more about preparing for or planning funeral services or to explore your options, visit us at San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home today. Our compassionate team of experts is here to help, guide, and support you.

Deciding Between a Coffin and a Casket

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 12:00:00 GMT

Losing a loved one is a monumental experience, accompanied by a range of emotions and followed by a variety of important decisions. Among those decisions is how your loved one will be laid to rest. This blog post discusses the differences between a coffin and a casket, when each is appropriate, and how to decide which is right for your loved one.

What is the difference between a casket and a coffin?

A question we commonly hear at San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home is when it comes to caskets and coffins, “are they the same?” While many Americans use the terms coffin and casket interchangeably, they refer to two different containers used to bury those who have passed away. Primary differences include:

The shape: Caskets are rectangular with four sides, while coffins have six sides and are wider at the shoulders than at the feet.
The size: Caskets are generally larger overall than coffins, which means they require more materials to manufacture and are generally more expensive.
The lid: Coffins have a one-piece lid, while caskets have a divided lid for viewing.
Popularity: Caskets are more popular in the United States while coffins are typically the container of choice in the United Kingdom.
Purpose: While both coffins and caskets can be used for viewing or burial, many families choose to rent a casket for the viewing and funeral service and then purchase a less expensive coffin for the burial. Because the burial containers are one of the most expensive components of burial, finding savings here can substantially reduce the overall cost.
The cost: Caskets are generally more expensive than coffins because they’re larger and made from more expensive and luxurious materials. The difference in cost will depend on the design, size, and exterior and interior materials used.
The history: Coffins were first introduced in the United States in the 1700s, focused on function rather than presentation, while caskets gained popularity later.

Both caskets and coffins can be beautifully made and honor the life that was lost.

What things should I consider when choosing a casket or a coffin?

A number of factors will play a role in the decision between a casket and a coffin.

First, will your loved one be buried or cremated? If your loved one will be cremated, you can rent a casket for the viewing and funeral service. In this case, the cremation container rests inside the casket and then is removed and taken to the crematory.

Second, what is your budget? Caskets range from inexpensive to more costly models and come in a variety of materials. You’ll choose between high-cost materials like cherry, walnut, mahogany, copper, bronze, or stainless steel; options in the mid-price range like maple, birch, or oak; and low-cost materials like willow, poplar, pine, or standard steel. As an added option, eco-friendly options like those made from seagrass, bamboo, or willow wicker are also available.

There are several types of coffins available, too, including traditional wooden coffins, personalized picture coffins, and cardboard, MDF, or wicker coffins.

Next, you’ll have to decide whether you’d like the casket to be “gasketed” or not. Gasketed caskets feature a rubber seal that prevents the elements from reaching the remains and slows the decomposition process.

It’s important to determine the appropriate size for your loved one. Standard sizes range from around five feet long to nearly seven feet long and two or more feet wide. Custom caskets can be ordered to accommodate lengths or widths that are outside the standard range, but it’s important to share that not all caskets are available in custom sizes.

Finally, you’ll have the opportunity to make decisions about the liner of the casket. Popular liner options include velvet, satin, velour, linen, or crepe. Once you choose the material, you may find that you’re able to select from a variety of colors and designs to best suit your loved one’s life and personality.

Does everybody need a casket?

In most cases, a container is required. Exceptions include a natural burial, which involves being buried in the earth without first being placed in a casket or a coffin and is not available in all cemeteries, and cremation. Containers are typically still required for cremation, but they’re much less expensive than a casket or a coffin.

How to buy a casket or a coffin

Your funeral director will provide you with a list of the types of caskets available, ranging in shape, size, material, and cost, and explain the advantages and disadvantages of each option. He or she will assist you in selecting the right casket or coffin for your loved one as you work through the funeral planning process, asking questions to learn more about the life of the decedent, and working to stay within your budget for the service and burial.

Many cemeteries require that caskets are supported by grave liners or burial vaults. The casket is placed in one of these structures to help prevent the ground from sinking under its weight, eventually leading to uneven landscape and helping to better maintain the cemetery grounds. Researching the requirements for the cemetery you choose is important to ensure compliance, and your funeral director can help.

How much do caskets cost?

The cost of a casket varies greatly depending on the materials you choose. While the average price of a casket is just over $2,000, some caskets made of high-end materials sell for over $10,000. We strongly encourage our clients to carefully review all of the options available so they’re able to make a decision that feels right both now and later as you reflect on your experience.

For compassionate, expert guidance as you plan your loved one’s services, reach out to the experienced team at San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home and Advance Planning Center . Whether you’re preplanning to alleviate the burden for your own family, preplanning as you work through the end-of-life of a loved one, or preparing to celebrate the life of someone you’ve already lost, we’re here for you and your family.

20 Personalized Funeral Service Ideas

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 12:00:00 GMT

Funerals can be an extremely emotional time for family and friends, but that emotion is rarely simple. While sadness often rules the day, there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate your loved one and the impact that they had on your life by creating an experience that brings their personality to life for loved ones. This type of celebration of life often includes funny stories and touching moments that will be remembered throughout the ages. Here are a few personalized funeral service suggestions to consider as you are planning your or your loved one’s final goodbye.

1. Personalize Your Loved One’s Casket.

Caskets and coffin choices do not have to be bland and boring, but can truly be used to communicate the personal style of your loved one. Consider using the bright colors of their favorite sports team or even custom-design a coffin with an image of a beloved pet.

2. Encourage Visitors to Bring Keepsakes for a Memory Board

There are plenty of photo display ideas that can be woven into your loved one’s memorial, but why not get your family and friends involved? Ask visitors to bring keepsakes such as photos or ticket stubs that speak to a special memory that can be shared with funeral guests.

3. Organize an Extended Family Meal

Many churches or civic organizations like to organize a family meal after a funeral, where guests can mingle in a more relaxed way and celebrate the life of your loved one while breaking bread together. This doesn’t have to be an overwhelming event, and most guests would be happy to bring an add-a-dish option to help offset any costs.

4. Define a Color Scheme for the Funeral

Did your loved one adore the color purple or perhaps yellow? Nothing says that funerals must be a black-and-white affair, dominated by white and red flowers. Instead, encourage guests to dress in their favorite color and let local florists know that there’s a color request for flowers. This is one of favorite personalized funeral service ideas.

5. Find Trendy Transport for the Casket

While hearses and limousines are the default option for transport of caskets from the funeral home to the final resting place of the body, horse-drawn carriages and other unique forms of transport are also acceptable. Consider a vehicle from the year your loved one was born, for instance.

6. Bring in Community Activities

Was your loved one a firm supporter of a local charity or hospital? Why not consider representing that community of individuals at your loved one’s final goodbye? They would likely appreciate knowing that funeral guests can donate to a beloved charity instead of purchasing flowers.

7. Offer a Candle-Lighting Ceremony

Lighting candles has long been a way to honor the memory of someone who is deceased, and a candle lighting ceremony can provide a feeling of serene peace for visitors. Allowing each visitor to light a special candle provides brilliant proof of their impact on the world.

8. Set up a Memorial Stone Station

All too often, loved ones are taken from us unexpectedly and without the opportunity to share a final thought with them. When you create a memorial stone station, you are offering guests the opportunity to share their last thoughts with the family and with their loved ones.

9. Get Creative with Flower Displays

Roses and lilies and potted plants in a display are certainly not the only options for flowers! Why not go full “Rose Bowl” and hire an expert florist to create a meaningful item designed wholly from flowers ? This could be anything from a movie character to a beloved pet, but it should be something meaningful that will make guests think — and maybe even smile for a moment.

10. Raise Funds for Charity

It is becoming increasingly popular to use “In lieu of flowers” language when announcing a memorial service. While flowers are a stunning visual reminder of your loved one, a more physical sign of devotion might be asking guests to contribute to their favorite charity.

11. Provide an Art Table

Children often have a hard time expressing extreme sadness or other emotions in words, but can share and work through their feelings using tangible methods. Creating an art table for children (and adults!) provides an option that not only offers a few moments of silence for parents but a meaningful way for children to share their thoughts.

12. Commission a Memorial Painting

Did your loved one have a special location or person that they adored? A memorial painting commissioned after their passing can help capture the spirit of your loved one in a way that will live on for generations.

13. Request a Powerful Military Service

Military funerals can be particularly moving, from the sound of “Taps” to the folding of the American flag. If your loved one is eligible, you can learn more about military funeral honors at the National Cemetery Administration website.

14. Design a Magical Memorial Release

The idea of your loved one’s soul moving on can be physically commemorated through the release of butterflies, doves or lanterns . While balloon releases have been favored in the past, it’s good to select a more environmentally-friendly option that still represents your loved one and provides opportunities for interaction with funeral attendees.

15. Cremation or Funeral Jewelry

Your loved one’s cremains (cremated remains) can be transitioned into stunning jewelry options that can be provided to loved ones before or after a funeral service. Alternatively, you can design memorial jewelry that has a special quote or thought on it that is passed out to each of the funeral attendees.

16. Memorial Candles

Personalized memorial candles can include the image of your loved one as well as a favorite saying or their lifespan. Providing a candle to each of your memorial service attendees is yet another way to create a lasting memory of your loved one. This is a very popular option that is often used for mother figures, as they will continue looking over their loved ones.

17. Plant a Memory Tree

Long-living trees that are planted in a spot that was important to your loved one is a great way to maintain their memory long after they have passed. Visiting that special area in the future allows those memories to surface for years.

18. Give Away Favorite Books

Whether your loved one was a book worm who adored all types of books or had a single title that was particularly important, consider giving away books to family and friends at their memorial service. This is a great way to honor your loved one while also providing something useful to guests.

19. Send Your Loved One Off With a Bang

While not for everyone, alternative funeral ideas such as creating a fireworks show can help reinforce that memorial services are a celebration of life. If outdoor fireworks simply aren’t a viable option, you can consider indoor fireworks which can be projected on the wall during a service.

20. Memorial Seedlings or Flower Seeds

Giving the gift of life is an important part of any funeral celebration, and providing tiny saplings to attendees or cards that can be planted to grow flowers are excellent options.

The most important aspect of any personalized funeral service is to keep in mind that this is an event for the living, to help them know that their contribution to the life of your loved one was important and meaningful. Create the ideal personalized funeral service for your friend or family member when you call the caring professionals at San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home and Advance Planning Center at 480-888-2682. We will work with you to understand your needs and provide answers to any questions throughout the funeral and memorial service planning process.

What To Do If Someone Passes At Home

Sat, 05 May 2018 12:00:00 GMT

In some cases, loved ones pass away peacefully with an expert on death and dying – like a hospice nurse or doctor – nearby. This person knows exactly what steps to take to ensure your loved one’s body is taken care of respectfully and according to his or her wishes. But what if your loved one passes at home, surrounded by friends and family who have little or no experience with the process? Follow these steps to ensure that this sad life event is handled appropriately and peacefully.

Seek a pronouncement of death.

If your loved one had a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order, have it handy to avoid efforts at resuscitation, such as CPR. Call 911 so paramedics can either pronounce your loved one dead (in some states) or transport your loved one to the emergency room for a pronouncement. If the person who passed away was receiving hospice care, contact the hospice nurse instead.

Contact the mortuary or crematorium.

According to your loved one’s wishes, contact the mortuary or crematorium to transport the decedent into their care. You may be asked a few questions about your loved one before a time is scheduled for an Arrangement Conference. Feel free to ask about pricing over the phone, as law requires mortuaries to provide this information when requested.

Notify appropriate parties.

Take time to notify the person’s primary care physician, family, and close friends of his or her passing. When possible, ask those you call to notify others (such as their own children and grandchildren) to ease the burden and limit delay in communication.

Handle urgent responsibilities.

If the deceased was the primary caregiver for children, dependent adults, or pets, make arrangements for immediate care for all parties.

Contact their employer.

Notifying the person’s employer that he or she has passed away and will not be returning to work. Find out whether or not they had an employer-sponsored life insurance policy and whether any pay for worked hours or paid time off is due to the person and when it will be paid out.

There are further steps to complete following the funeral service, like obtaining a death certificate, handling the estate, closing utilities accounts, and discontinuing Social Security benefits. Keep in mind that the more you know about your loved one’s wishes in advance, the easier the process will be.

Step by Step Guide to Planning a Funeral Reception

Wed, 18 Apr 2018 12:00:00 GMT

Funeral planning may seem like a depressing topic, but the reality is that your loved ones will appreciate you taking the initiative to reduce the number of decisions they need to make during an emotional time. Plus, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that everything goes exactly the way you would like. This includes the music played at the memorial service to the types of potatoes served at the reception. Your funeral reception is a time for friends and family members to reunite from across the country (or the world!) to celebrate a life well-lived. Here are some tips to keep in mind when you’re planning your funeral reception in advance.

Step 1: Find Plenty of Room

You may be surprised at the number of individuals who are interested in paying their respects at a funeral. Even if your funeral is not a spiritual event, you may find that a local church building is a great place to host your final party.

Step 2: Plan for Extra Food

We live in a society where people equate food with funerals, so be sure you plan ahead for the extra potatoes and salads that will be brought for sharing. Long, simple tables are the best way to provide adequate space for everything and allow guests to peruse the various options before making their selections.

Step 3: Consider Catering

Worrying about having enough food for unexpected guests is more stress than your family needs during a day when emotions are already running high. Consider catering or asking distant relatives or friends to help out and keep things moving. Depending on your family traditions, the party may turn into a high-spirited opportunity for people to share stories or a quieter meal that is more refined in nature.

Advance planning for a funeral reception allows friends and family members to relax and enjoy themselves during a difficult time. Do you need additional ideas for planning a memorial service or burial ? Contact the knowledgeable associates at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery today at 480-832-2850 or contact us via email at wecare@mvfuneralhome.com .

Etiquette for Visiting a Gravesite

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 12:00:00 GMT

Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind when visiting a gravesite is that all people mourn differently. For some, the ideal visit with loved ones who have passed on is to respectfully bring flowers for a few moments and then leave. Others are perfectly comfortable bringing a picnic and having an extended chat. And some families prefer to bring children and pets and a great deal of love and laughter to the space. While no approach is more correct than others, it is always important to be respectful of the needs of others. Here’s some etiquette tips that will allow you to get the most out of your next visit without encroaching upon the needs of other visitors.

Children and Pets

Whether a leisurely stroll with an aging canine or a friendly pup tugging at its leash, pets can have a place near a gravesite. The same goes for children — all personality types are welcome, but be mindful of others and be sure to impart a few words of wisdom first. Explain to your young ones that a cemetery is often a place for reflection and peace, and shouting and jumping on gravestones is not appropriate behavior. Be sure you have a way to clean up after your pets should they need a nature break, too.

Follow the Rules

Many cemeteries and gravesite areas have specific rules posted either on their website for each location or near the entrance. These rules could contain a variety of things, such as:

Visiting hours
Limitations on temporary grave markers or stones
Whether or not artificial decorations are allowed
Any limitations for pet visitors
Speed limits

Keeping these guidelines in mind will ensure that not only do you have a pleasant visit with your loved one, but others will appreciate your thoughtfulness as well.

Most importantly, don’t think of gravesite visitation guidelines as rules to restrict your visit. Instead, they are a way of ensuring that each visitor is able to commune with loved ones in their own way. Do you have questions about the visitation recommendations for Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery ? Contact our friendly and caring associates at 480-832-2850 to learn more.

Best Resources for Grief Support on Holidays

Sun, 04 Feb 2018 12:00:00 GMT

Learning to live again after the loss of a spouse or loved one can feel overwhelming. This is especially true during holidays such as Valentine’s Day, wedding anniversaries, or birthdays. These special times are ones that were shared with our other half. Finding something to do can help manage the grieving process in a positive way. Many families find that planning some activities ahead of time that incorporate friends and family or others who are in a similar situation, may be helpful as well. Here are three of the best resources for grief support on holidays and anniversaries.

Plan a Visit

Visiting a gravesite doesn’t have to be a sad time. However, it can certainly bring up a wide range of powerful emotions. Consider bringing a special gift to your lost loved one on Valentine’s Day. We have seen many widows and widowers enjoying a special treat with their beloved while they spent time in meditation at their graveside. For birthdays and other special occasions, bring along family and friends to share in the memory of your loved one. You can coordinate with friends or the cemetery to release balloons or doves, or to have a shaded area prepared nearby.

Stay Active

If you’re not feeling up to a gravesite visit, what about a more active alternative? Plan a lunch or dinner outing with friends or family members. Some may find watching over children to be a fun way to spend the day and to improve one’s outlook on what the future may bring. A nature hike or active adventure may be just what you need to create a new annual event that you can enjoy in a different way.

Treat Yourself

Spending time pampering yourself — enjoying a leisurely brunch at a restaurant you wouldn’t ordinarily visit or a spa day — may be just what the doctor ordered. It doesn’t have to be expensive if your budget won’t support it. It could be as simple as visiting a museum you have always wanted to visit, a bubble bath accompanied by your favorite music, or giving yourself permission to take the time to throw yourself at a hobby or project that has been sitting on the shelf.

At Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery , we understand how difficult it is to lose a significant other who has been an integral part of your life. This year we want to show our love and support for our communities by offering a free Valentine’s Day Luncheon for widows and widowers. For those in-and-around Queen Creek, San Tan Mountain View’s Valentine’s Luncheon will be Wednesday, February 14, 2018, from noon to 1:30 pm. Mountain View Funeral Home in Mesa will host a Luncheon on Thursday, February 15, 2018, from noon to 1:30 pm. As seating is limited, please call to RSVP and mention which day or location you wish to attend.

Want to learn more about our monthly events? Check out our calendar online or call us anytime at 480-832-2850.

Three Unique Gravesite Decorations

Tue, 30 Jan 2018 12:00:00 GMT

Selecting a gravesite marker and any decorations is the ideal way to capture a small portion of your loved one’s spirit. The hardest part is deciding which one to choose that represents them entirely. Fortunately, gravesite decorations are as diverse as humans are. With these three unique options, you can show your everlasting love and devotion to your loved one.

Solar Powered Grave Decor

From a rose that never wilts to a cross that is lighted inside by the brightness of the sun, solar powered grave decor is a trend that provides a low-to-no maintenance option that is ideal for many gravesites . Keep in mind that some cemeteries limit the type of items that are placed within the grounds (for instance only live plants are allowed or vice versa).

Seasonal Decorations

A gravesite becomes a new home for your loved one. Many families enjoy the opportunity to continue celebrating the turning of the seasons with them. This could come in the form of tiny pumpkins for harvest festivals to mini trees or a wreath in remembrance for winter holidays. Consider roses or other flowers for Valentine’s Day or an American flag for Memorial Day.

Commemorative Flags

If your loved one was in the military, you may already be planning to keep an American flag by their gravesite, but flags are ideal remembrances for everyone. A personalized flag can be designed and custom made as a semi-permanent reminder of your loved one’s personality and zest for life. Get creative — consider a fan flag for their favorite sports team or activity that can be placed on their gravestone at any time of the year.

Need more ideas or inspiration? We will work with you to ensure you understand any limitations of the burial grounds you select and also to provide your loved ones with comfort and peace. Contact the staff at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery today to learn more at 480-832-2850, or visit us online for more information.

What is a Celebration of Life?

Tue, 23 Jan 2018 12:00:00 GMT

Losing a loved one does not generally feel like a time to celebrate. However, there are some individuals whose light in the world simply doesn’t lend itself to a staid and somber ceremony. In this case, or when the deceased has planned their own celebration of life service, there are plenty of ways to say your final goodbyes. A celebration of life may still have moments of sadness, but it is customary in many cultures to focus on the joyful aspects of your loved one’s life on earth.

Funeral vs Celebration of Life

There are many similarities between the two commemorative events. Both focus around an individual and the gathering of friends and family to share memories and stories. However, there is much more room in a celebration of life for creativity, while a funeral is generally a more structured event.

Location Matters

Traditionally, funerals are held in a funeral home or church. However, a celebration of life can be held practically anywhere. For example, you can hold a celebration of life in a funeral home, a family home, a restaurant or other location that was special to the family and their loved one. In warmer climates, these events can be held outside in a garden or other locale.

Level of Formality

If you’re looking for a less formal way to bring people together to honor someone who has passed, a celebration of life may provide the right scope for your gathering. Funerals are often quite structured, with specific times set aside for visitation with the body, ceremonies that often include a spiritual or religious element and interment or committal ceremonies . They are often lead by a clergy member whereas a celebration of life may be lead by a family member. Prayers may still be said, but often time is set aside for those attending to share a favorite story of their loved one.

Funeral Favors

Another way the two options differ is through the favors that are provided to attendees. Funeral attendees often receive a printed bulletin that is used both as a memorial and a way to follow along during the service. With a celebration of life, families may opt for an item that is a bit more personal — almost akin to a wedding favor. This could take the form of anything from a small, personalized candle to candy or other small gifts.

When you are ready to plan your funeral or celebration of life, contact our knowledgeable and compassionate team at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery at 480-832-2850. We strive to always exceed your expectations, and will treat your loved one with the respect that they deserve.

Embalming: Preserving Your Loved One

Tue, 16 Jan 2018 12:00:00 GMT

When a loved one passes away, there are many different considerations that go into preparing them for their eternal rest. There is often a question around whether or not the body should be embalmed or whether a natural funeral would be more appropriate. If your friend or family member did not leave specific instructions for about embalming, this important question is left up to the family to make based on the circumstances and their belief system.

Reasons for Embalming

In the past, laws were enacted to encourage families to have the bodies of their deceased embalmed to protect public health. These reasons have been invalidated by scientists, as a body that has not been embalmed does not harbor any sort of dangers to loved ones or the general public. However, it remains customary in the U.S. that bodies are embalmed after death in many cases for the sake of convenience and appearance, specifically if there will be an open casket.

When Embalming is Required

There are specific times when embalming a body after death is required, such as when a body will need to be transported across state lines or via a commercial carrier in certain states. There are some legal challenges to laws that require embalming under these circumstances, but transportation laws are still in effect in Idaho, Kansas, Montana and California to name a few of the states.

When Embalming is Recommended

If you live in a warm area of the country, embalming is a recommended method of preservation for your loved one’s body. The process slows down decomposition by replacing bodily fluids with formaldehyde, a preserving agent. This is especially recommended if friends and family members will be traveling for several days in order to attend the funeral.

Want to learn more about your options for bodily preservation for your loved one’s eternal rest? Contact the caring and knowledgeable staff at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery at 480-832-2850 or read a brief history of embalming on our blog . Our funeral directors are here to help you understand your options so you can make the decisions that make sense for your family.

What to Consider When Selecting a Gravesite

Mon, 25 Dec 2017 12:00:00 GMT

Are you selecting a gravesite for yourself as part of the funeral pre-planning process or making a decision for a loved one? Keeping these considerations in mind will help you find a final home that meets your space and religious requirements while also staying within appropriate rules, regulations and a cost structure that you can afford. Selecting a final resting place doesn’t have to be a sad occasion, but instead should be a process of finding exactly the right location for family and friends to visit in the future.

Rules and Regulations

From a limitation on the size and type of casket that may be buried in a particular location to limited hours for visitation, there are rules and regulations in place within many cemetery locations. Some cemeteries allow only real flowers and decorations must be removed in a timely manner, or require that families provide for care of the cemetery plot. Still other cemeteries have limitations on the types of gravestones or markers that can be used — sometimes due to visual requirements, while others are practical and due to ground that tends to sink under the weight of heavier stones.

Spiritual or Military Affiliations

When you’re considering a gravesite, it’s important to keep in mind any additional concerns such as religious affiliations or military service. There are very strict laws around military service and who is allowed to be buried in federal cemeteries. Contact your local Veteran’s Department or work with your funeral director to determine which cemetery spaces would be appropriate based on your needs.

Location and Space

Finding a centrally-located cemetery can be important for visiting friends and family. Is the tranquil beauty of the space likely to be changed with surrounding construction in the future? Equally important is whether there’s enough physical space for additional family members near the plot. It can be challenging to find a large enough grouping of gravesites, especially if you wish to plan for future generations.

Budget

Reputable funeral homes will work closely with you to stay within your stated budget, while finding the best alternatives that fit your personal requirements. However, there can be unexpected costs such as opening and closing the grave, burial liners and permits. There are also a wide variety of options for headstones and markers to fit within any budget.

Selecting the ideal gravesite ultimately provides your friends and family members a feeling of peace and comfort when they visit. Our patient and understanding funeral directors and staff will work closely with you to ensure that this important decision receives the consideration that it deserves. Contact us today at 480-832-2850 to learn more about the beautiful onsite cemetery options at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery .

The Difference Between a Mausoleum and a Crypt

Mon, 04 Dec 2017 12:00:00 GMT

What is the Difference Between a Mausoleum and a Crypt?

There is a whole new world of terminology around the end stages of life: crypts and mausoleums, entombment or cremation . . . but what do these terms mean to you and your loved ones when you are planning ahead ? While all of these words refer to a way to protect and honor the remains of your loved ones after their passing, there are a few key differences of which you should be aware. In general, crypts refer to the vault that is often located below a church or on the grounds of a memorial facility within a mausoleum to house a casket and the departed, while a mausoleum is a stately and serene building that may house one or more crypts. These alternatives to ground burial are used by families throughout the world and continue to gain popularity in the United States.

Mausoleums

Mausoleums can be either private or open to the community, with community options being more affordable. Mausoleums may be indoor, outdoors or in a serene garden setting. There are various configurations of mausoleum crypts available, with the most common including side-by-side, single, companion or family crypts. These protective buildings may also have a section for niches, which are holding spaces for urns and cremains. Mausoleums date back to 353 B.C., with the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus in Turkey being considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. These elaborate structures were originally built to house kings, nobility, and leaders. Even today, many mausoleums incorporate some of the same graceful and elegant styles of ancient mausoleums.

Crypts

The term “crypts” refers to the actual storage area for a casket that contains the remains of one individual. While side-by-side crypts offer a way for individuals to be positioned very closely together for eternity, most still have a separate marker for each crypt. Family crypts and companion crypts are simply an expanded version of the side-by-side, with crypts that can be stacked above one another as well as laid end-to-end to better use the space available.

Want to learn more about the various options for entombment available at San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery grounds ? Our private mausoleums, companion crypts and chapel mausoleums offer a variety of options to meet your family’s needs. Contact our knowledgeable staff today .

Components of a Memorial Service Explained

Tue, 28 Nov 2017 12:00:00 GMT

Funeral traditions across the U.S. are like a varied tapestry that provides texture to pay homage to the complex lives that we lead. Each element of a memorial service is designed to create a community of love and support that will continue throughout the difficult days ahead. Standard components of a memorial service often include the visitation before the service, the memorial service itself, interment or committal ceremonies and finally a reception.

Visitation

Family and friends gather to trade stories — both funny and emotional — and view videos or slideshows of the departed. Often seen as a time to renew old friendships and see far-flung family members, the visitation has a more relaxed atmosphere than the formal service. Your funeral home can offer guidance for visitation practices based on your spiritual background, but this time of fellowship often takes place in the day or two preceding the memorial service.

Memorial Service

The key parts of the service itself include the opening remarks, honoring or remembrance by family or through music and song, a litany, poem or prayer that provides a spirit of healing and gratitude for your loved one and finally words of inspiration that could include a blessing in religious services.

Music helps set the tone, and may provide emotional support for grieving family members and friends. For example, a celebration of life may be a more uplifting and light-hearted service than one that is planned for someone who was very dignified or tranquil in life. Feel free to incorporate various favorites into the service as a way to personalize the time.
Readings can be either spiritual or poetic, read by family members or a clergy person as your needs dictate.
While the eulogy is often written and read or delivered by members of the immediate family, this portion of the service may also be performed by a close friend or your clergy person.

Committal Services

Not every memorial service includes committal, as this ritual is dictated by the wishes of the deceased and their family. Committal services may take place at the burial ground, crematorium, funeral home or a local chapel and are a shorter version of the memorial service that includes many of the same elements of song as well as litanies or prayers.

The reception is often the most joyful part of any memorial service, as friends and family members begin to relax and start to envision their life moving forward. Need suggestions on planning or preparing for a memorial service? Contact our compassionate and knowledgeable funeral directors at 480-832-2850. At Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery , we promise to always treat you and your loved ones with dignity.

San Tan Funeral Home | Wills

Fri, 24 Nov 2017 14:49:00 GMT

San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home is a Queen Creek funeral home that believes in taking care of family. That includes having a will prepared when you are no longer around to care for them. When including property (your belongings) in your will, it is important to know that some types of property carry rules that govern what happens after your passing. These rules are handled independently from your will due to the nature of these types of properties. Here are the properties to leave out of a will:

Joint tenancy property
Property in a living trust
Life insurance proceeds that have a beneficiary
Retirement plan proceeds
Stocks and bonds held in beneficiary
Proceeds from a payable-upon-death bank account.

Typically, the settling of an estate and the probate proceedings occur after the funeral, so including your wishes for your Gilbert funeral home funeral arrangements in your will does not make sense. They would probably not be noticed until after your funeral. Instead, you can communicate your wishes to your loved ones in advance, write out your wishes in a separate document, or pre-plan your funeral. Our staff here at San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home will be happy to assist you with pre-planning your funeral arrangements at our Gilbert funeral home.

A will is still subject to estate taxes. So, instead of writing a will to avoid them, you may want to explore different kinds of trusts . Depending on your situation, you can escape some tax subjection with a trust because the property goes to a trust account rather than directly to the beneficiary.

Having a will does not mean that you can escape the probate process, but it can help speed things up. When writing a will, if you include specifics on how you want your property divided, then the court will follow your wishes.

Be careful when writing your will about placing certain conditions on gifts you are leaving to others. Conditions such as marriage, divorce, or even a change in religion cannot be provisions in a legal will. Other conditions that encourage a particular action can be included. For example, if you can give a gift to a grandchild provided he finishes college. Keep in mind, however, that conditions on gifts can complicate matters. You just need to be thoughtful about who will enforce your conditions, for how long, and if that person will get an executor’s fee for their services.

Two last notes about writing a will: First, forget what you see in the movies…you cannot leave your property to a pet. You can, however, leave your pet with someone you trust will take good care of them. As well, you should not make arrangements to care for a person with special needs in a will. There are certain types of trust that specifically address such care management.

There is no one good time that you should consider writing a will. Many people wait until they are much older to do so. But at our Gilbert funeral home, we recommend that, if you have any notable property or if you have children or other family that you want to provide for, you should consider writing a will as soon as possible. It will make things so much easier for your loved ones.

Glenn David Miller Obituary

Tue, 21 Nov 2017 22:02:00 GMT

Glenn born on August 7th 1952 in Mullens, West VA to James and Athleen Miller. His parents instilled values of honesty, loyalty, and hard-work. He spent much of his childhood in Flagstaff, AZ, fishing, hunting, and exploring the country on his motor cycle.

Shortly after high school, Glenn moved to Page, AZ where he took an apprenticeship and began his career with SRP. There he set down roots, was married, and had two boys. Glenn took every opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with his friends and family. Their outings included camping on the Kaibab, fishing on the Colorado, boating on Lake Powell, and 3-wheeling at the Corel Pink Sand Dunes.

Glenn moved to Mesa, AZ to be closer to family and finished his 42 year career with SRP. In retirement, he reignited his childhood love for hot rods with his ‘67 Stingray, competing against some of the best classic cars in the southwest.

Glenn’s true love was his grandkids, and the treasured adventures they shared at the cabin. These outings ranged from 4-wheeling to catching crawdads from snow sledding to the occasional coyote calling.

He often curled up on the couch with the kids to watch a movie where he earned his nickname “Popcorn”.

Glenn also loved his country, its history, and traditions. We have lost a true patriot. Although he will be deeply missed, we can find peace in the knowledge that life does not end with death; till we meet again.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 1 at 10:30 a.m. at the LDS Chapel located at 22035 E. Ocotillo Road, Queen Creek , AZ 85142. The family will greet guests at 9:30 and services will begin at 10:30 a.m.

How Soon Should I Start Making Funeral Arrangements?

Tue, 21 Nov 2017 12:00:00 GMT

Losing a loved one is one of the most traumatic experiences in life, and can leave even the most structured mind struggling to make connections in the hours after your friend or family member’s passing. You may be racing in many different directions, wondering who to notify, when you should schedule any visitation times and the funeral, and the hundreds of other decisions required. Staying organized is crucial, and knowing that there are professionals available to support you may allow you to feel more in control.

Understanding Timing

It’s important to know that there is no ideal time between a loved one’s passing and their visitation or memorial service. Traditionally, several days are required to ensure the funeral home has time to prepare your loved one for burial or cremation, and allows time to contact friends and family members who may be from out of town. If family and friends are local, a service may comfortably be held within a week. If death occurs away from home or you need additional time to bring family members home, additional time may be required before a service may take place. In these cases, you may want to consider having your loved one embalmed.

Funeral Services

You may have noticed that most cemeteries are not open for burials on Sundays, so services are often performed on other days of the week. If your loved one passed on a Thursday or Friday, for instance, you may find it most convenient to wait until Monday to hold services. If your loved one made arrangements with a local funeral home, it is important to make that determination to ensure that you are following their final wishes.

At Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery, our funeral director and staff will patiently answer your questions to ensure that you are comfortable with the care of your loved one.

What You Should or Should Not Bring to a Funeral

Mon, 16 Oct 2017 12:04:00 GMT

Just as there is no rule book detailing the “right” thing to say to someone at a funeral, it can be difficult to know what you should or should not bring to a service. Funerals and memorials are a time for quiet reflection, bonding with loved ones and remembering a life well-lived — not necessarily the right venue for loud electronics or other noisy devices. Depending on a family’s faith and cultural background, funerals may be a time of quiet reflection or exuberant joy and celebration of the individual who has passed away. These general rules of Service Etiquette will allow you to be confident in your choices for what to bring (or leave at home) when supporting those you care for during a difficult time.

What to Leave Behind

Revealing clothing: While black is no longer a requirement for funerals, this is not the time to grab the limelight with brightly-colored new accessories. In these situations, modesty is the rule of thumb.
Loud electronics and phones that aren’t muted: In today’s selfie-driven society, it’s important to know that family members are in mourning and aren’t likely to appreciate you tweeting during the funeral.
Pets: Though adorable, unless they are certified service animals, animal companions can be a nuisance at a service. Some people have allergies or fears of some species or breeds. Depending on where a service is taking place, uncovered food may be present where fur would not be appreciated.

What You May Bring

Flowers: Though they may not last long, flowers retain the ability to bring light to a dim occasion. They are a stunning visual of how many people were impacted by the departed.
Food and Snacks: While you shouldn’t feel obligated to bring food to the funeral, it is often appreciated as family members may be there for extended hours with no ability to grab a bite. Especially thoughtful are items such as fruit trays, sandwich trays and other small items that can be eaten without a lot of mess and that will stay safe if opened multiple times.
Sympathy Cards: Though losing its hold in tradition, many people still bring sympathy cards to a service for the family. The thoughtful words and shared memories found within when the family grieves in private does much to offer support.

Children

Children tend to bring joy wherever they are — and can add a breath of fresh air to what could otherwise be a very somber occasion. Consider that not all children are at an age or of a temperament to endure a lengthy service surrounded by new people and demanding quiet periods. This is also a time when you may be more focused on being supportive or grieving yourself, therefore you may want to consider a sitter. If you do bring your child to a funeral service be sure to bring small, quiet toys or coloring books to keep them entertained and out of trouble. Electronics are fine as well, just be sure they are switched to silent. If you are planning to bring your child and these were forgotten at home, ask a staff member of the funeral home or church if they may have something available. Sometimes a side room may be vacant for them to play in without detracting from the service.

Attending a funeral can bring strong emotions to the forefront for anyone, especially close friends or family members of the deceased. At Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery , our caring and compassionate staff will help answer questions both before and during the ceremony to ensure that everyone is as comfortable as possible.

5 Types of Funeral Services

Wed, 27 Sep 2017 12:00:00 GMT

When a loved one passes, many people believe that there is only one type of funeral service available. Typically, it is whatever service or practice is proscribed by their culture or religion. This may be the only type of service they have attended in the past.

In actuality, there are dozens of variations in the funeral process. Jewish families, for example, mourn for a week-long period following a loved one’s passing. This is known as “sitting shiva.” Hindu funerals include open caskets and offerings to ancestors.

While every funeral service is individual, there are five types of funeral services commonly held in America. Families of the deceased may choose to have one type of ceremony, or incorporate several of the following.

Visitation or Viewing : Sometimes referred to as a wake, a visitation or viewing gives family and friends a chance to say goodbye to their loved one. It is an intimate, casual event without formal speakers or prayers. This service occurs after the body has been cleaned and prepared by the funeral home. While some people use the terms “visitation” and “viewing” interchangeably, the difference is in whether the casket is open or closed. As the name suggests, a viewing has an open-casket allowing mourners to see the deceased’s body.
Funeral Service : Funeral services are typically held at a funeral home or church, and involve speakers, prayers and clergy (if desired by the family). The body is present, with the casket generally closed, and a memorial card or program is often provided. Clergy and/or family members offer prayers, readings or psalms. The funeral service gives friends and family the chance to speak about their loved one and share memories or experiences aloud with everyone present. Some aspects of this service may vary with religion and culture.
Memorial Service : A memorial is similar to a funeral service where loved ones speak in remembrance of the departed. The key difference is that there is no body present. Instead, a photo of the deceased is typically displayed on an easel or board at the front of the room, surrounded by flowers at the family’s request. Because there is no body present, a memorial service can be held at any time after death, up to a year after the passing.
Committal Service : The committal occurs following a funeral procession in which attendees drive from the funeral home or church to the gravesite. The casket is removed from the hearse at the front of the procession and carried to the gravesite. There, a clergy member or officiant may give a reading from scripture, and loved ones are given a final chance to say goodbye to the departed. The casket is then lowered into the ground (or the urn placed in a mausoleum or other resting place). Popular traditions at the committal include placing a handful of dirt or a flower into the open grave. Some families elect to go straight to this ceremony rather than hold a formal funeral service prior.
Funeral Reception : Following the internment, families may choose to host a reception at a private home or public reception hall. This gives mourners the chance to interact and share stories about the deceased, as well as pay their respects to family members one-on-one. Receptions are often catered, or have food provided by friends and family.

Mountain View Funeral Home is here to assist you every step of the way, from organizing and hosting a wake through the committal and reception. Our services include advanced planning, onsite cremation or burial, and providing options for your loved one’s final resting place. We welcome you to call us 24/7 at 480-832-2850 or contact us online for information.

What Does a Funeral Home Do?

Fri, 22 Sep 2017 12:00:00 GMT

The death of a loved one can be difficult – especially if you’re the one tasked with making funeral arrangements. If you’ve never been responsible for planning a service, you may be wondering where to start and what decisions need to be made. This is where your funeral home comes in. Mountain View Funeral Home can assist with many of the important decisions and essential duties of planning your loved one’s ceremony and final resting place.

Immediately After Death

A family member is encouraged to contact their funeral home of choice as soon as possible after their loved one’s passing. Hospital staff and law enforcement can recommend local funeral homes they respect if the family has not decided on one. As the death of someone can leave the family in shock or at a loss of what is going on, a nurse or officer may offer or be requested to contact the funeral home on behalf of the family. Once contacted, the funeral home will send a funeral director or other representative to transport your loved one into their care.

The Arrangement Conference

After contacting your funeral home, they will schedule an in-person consultation to coordinate the legal aspects of a death. Family members are advised to bring a recent photo of their loved one for the obituary, family records such as birth certificates or marriage licenses, social security cards, and military discharge papers, along with clothing and personal items for the deceased.

Unfortunately, there can be a great deal of legal paperwork required after a loved one’s passing. Your funeral home is there to help ease the burden. They will help you fill out the necessary paperwork for government entities, help compose an obituary and send it to newspapers, and request certified copies of the death certificate for insurance purposes. You will also begin to discuss your loved one’s final arrangements – including burial or cremation, tributes, and funeral services.

Other Considerations

Mountain View Funeral Home deals with practical, legal, and social issues. We are there to help throughout the entire process, and can assist with pre-planning options so there are no questions about your last wishes.

Filing paperwork and requesting forms
Answering questions about Veterans’ Affairs, social security, and insurance
Arranging for cremation or burial
Helping family members work within a budget and work with insurance companies
Providing caskets, register books, funeral program,s and other memorial products
Helping families design a moving, personalized service
Contacting and scheduling clergy or other officiants, musicians, and speakers
Receiving flower arrangements and arranging tributes
Directing activities and ensuring a smooth process from the visitation to services, processions, and interment

While every funeral home is different, our goals are the same. We help guide family members and friends during a difficult time of transition, and ensure that your loved one’s life is celebrated with dignity and respect. At Mountain View Funeral Home & Cemetery, our friendly and understanding staff is here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us online or at 480-832-2850 for pre-planning options or to discuss arrangements for a loved one.

What Does A Typical Funeral Schedule Looks Like?

Mon, 18 Sep 2017 12:00:00 GMT

If you’re unsure what to expect at a funeral, you’re not alone. An estimated 2.4 million funerals take place in America every year. Yet, many guests don’t understand the intricacies of planning, or attending, a funeral service. To help, here is a general overview of what one would expect at a typical service.

The Night Before: Viewing

The viewing, also known as a wake , often occurs a night or two prior to the funeral service. This is a time for family and friends to gather in honor of the deceased, typically at a funeral home or church. A casket containing the deceased is present during the viewing. The casket may be open or closed, depending on factors such as religious tradition, circumstances of death and the family’s wishes.

What separates a viewing from the service?

A viewing is for loved ones to say goodbye and pay their respects to the deceased (and the deceased’s family).
It is smaller and more informal than the funeral service.
Not everyone who attends the funeral will attend a viewing/wake.

The Funeral Service

Funeral services are very personal, and depend on factors ranging from culture and religion to details specified in the deceased’s will. Expect a service to last between half an hour to one hour; longer for public figures, or if there are lengthy readings or speeches. A clergy member or other officiant presides over the funeral service, and a printed program is generally provided to guests. Typical parts of a funeral include:

Introduction from clergy or officiant
Readings by clergy members or friends and relatives of the deceased. These may be psalms, excerpts from holy scriptures, favorite poems or other inspirational quotes.
Words and memories shared about their loved one from family and friends of the deceased
Songs or hymns between portions of the ceremony
Conclusion by the officiant or funeral director
Pallbearers (casket bearers) or funeral home staff carry the casket from the ceremony to the hearse, which will carry the deceased to the cemetery or burial site. Guests traditionally follow the hearse containing the casket to the burial site for interment.

A memorial service, as opposed to a funeral, is conducted when there is no body present. In place of a casket there may be an urn or pictures for mourners to pay respects to the deceased. This service may contain the same elements as a funeral, except for the casket procession.

Same Day, After the Service: Interment and Reception

The Interment happens at the gravesite directly following the service. This is where loved ones have a final chance to say farewell prior to the deceased’s burial. A short service, typically 5-10 minutes, is conducted by the officiant. The casket is then lowered into the ground, or an urn containing the deceased’s ashes placed in a mausoleum. Some families opt to host a post-funeral reception at their home or in a public space, while others disperse following the interment.

Perhaps the last funeral you attended was long ago, involved different cultural expectations, or was highly customized to fit the deceased’s wishes. Maybe you’ve never been involved with planning a service. Regardless of the situation, it’s perfectly natural to have questions about what to expect during a funeral service. We welcome you to contact our staff at Mountain View Funeral Home online or at 480-832-2850 (24/7) for information or help with planning services for your loved one.

Why Do Mourners Wear Black?

Mon, 26 Jun 2017 14:10:00 GMT

Dark-colored funeral attire dates back at least as far as the 8th Century A.D., when ancient Romans wore the toga pulla – a grey, brown or black garment made of dark wool – during mourning periods. Traditionally, people wore black after the death of a loved one to signify a mourning period and to indicate to others that extra support may be needed during this time of mourning. In the 1920’s, American department stores had full mourning sections where people could purchase nice black clothing. While plain black clothing remains traditional for funerals in most Western cultures, the spectrum of color has expanded and traditions have laxed. Other dark colors like navy blue or grey have become accepted colors to wear to most funerals.

In the Victorian era, hair from lost loved ones was used to make mourning jewelry for their female relatives. Today, mourners sometimes don a favorite object or color to honor the deceased which is a great way to personalize and memorial service. You may decide to complement traditional black attire with a pop of color in remembrance of a lost loved one’s favorite color or a cause they believed in; for example, a pink ribbon for breast cancer awareness. If you need help making arrangements for your loved one, contact Mountain View Funeral Home today.

How to Help Your Parent Cope with Losing Theirs

Wed, 21 Jun 2017 15:00:00 GMT

At Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery , we understand that as an adult child, supporting a parent can be very difficult after they have just lost one of their own parents. When someone dies, many are left to mourn and grieve and it can sometimes be difficult for families to know how to support each other. It is important to honor all of the different relationships and dynamics that have been changed in the family with the passing of a loved one. Everyone grieves differently, and supporting someone you care about after they lose a loved one is difficult, especially if you are grieving yourself. It can be hard to know the right thing to say or how much extra attention to give someone in their time of mourning. It can be even harder to support a parent after they lose on of their parents. Not only are you grieving the loss of your own grandparent, but you are now worried about your parent and how they are coping as well. At Mountain View Funeral Home , we understand that supporting a parent can be difficult under these circumstances. So, how do you help mom or dad cope with the loss of a parent when you are experiencing grief of your own? We’ll help you and your family members plan a funeral or memorial service, take care of documents and arrangements, and help you through the entire process. Adult children are commonly the ones left to make arrangements when a parent dies; If your mom or dad are responsible for your grandparent’s arrangements, here are some simple ways you can help alleviate some of their stress:

Assist with Planning

Planning funeral services is overwhelming. Important and timely decisions must be made and your parent may have difficulty doing everything alone. You may offer to call relatives and friends to inform them about services or coordinating food for a reception. Visit the funeral home with your parent or offer to do something at home, like putting together an obituary or helping to keep track of flowers and cards. This will not only help your parent, it will also help you. Keeping busy helps many people cope with the initial shock of losing a loved one. Completing tasks like these is oftentimes what keeps us going.

Do a “Together” Activity

Participating in family activities helps remind your mother or father of happier times, and strengthens bonds. This can be a task related to the funeral arrangements, such as picking out flowers or designing memorial cards, or an outside activity you both enjoy such as coloring or working in the garden.

Talk and Tell Stories

Mourning is a very personal thing. Some people who have lost a parent enjoy reminiscing about good times shared with their lost loved one, while others find it too difficult to discuss immediately. Allow your mom or dad to set the pace for their own grief; if they bring your grandmother or grandfather up in conversation, participate actively. Share positive moments you recall, especially if you find that talking about your grandparent helps in your own grieving process. Sharing memories and story telling is one way that families can come together to process their grief. Ask your parent to tell one of their favorite stories about their parent and see where the conversation takes you. Just sitting and talking with family can be very cathartic for everyone.

Take Care of Yourself

We all want to support our parents during hard times, just as they have done for us growing up. Don’t forget, however, that you have just suffered a loss of your own and that you are also grieving. Grandparent- Grandchildren bonds are some of the strongest relationships out there. Take care of yourself and take your own time to grieve. You won’t be able to support your parent if you aren’t okay yourself. Even as adults, parents want to know their children are okay, so taking care of yourself may actually help your parent feel able to spend their emotional energy taking care of themselves.

Choosing Direct Cremation

Wed, 17 May 2017 15:36:00 GMT

Cremation is an option for final disposition that is becoming more and more popular. For those who choose to keep arrangements simple and cost-effective, the decision for direct cremation is often made.

What Is Direct Cremation?

Some people choose to have a funeral with the body present before cremation. Direct cremation, however, is when the cremation takes place without a traditional funeral service first. This doesn’t mean you can’t have a proper memorial. Many people who go this route have a memorial service after the cremation. In this case, the urn can be present rather than a casket, if desired.

Benefits of Direct Cremation

Choosing direct cremation offers several advantages to those planning the funeral:

There is no embalming required, due to the quick disposition. This means you save on preparation costs.
The Funeral Rule , imposed by the Federal Trade Commission, states that you are entitled to purchase a simple wood or cardboard container rather than a casket. This law allows you to save even more on funeral expenses.
Direct cremation gives you more time to plan a memorial service. This is helpful if you have out-of-town guests who must make travel arrangements and can’t make it right away.
Direct cremation is the most time-effective disposition method. This is because the entire process takes only two to three days. Planning and carrying out a traditional funeral could take as long as a week.

Of course, there is one thing you will want to consider if you choose direct cremation. There will be no viewing, which many people find helpful for closure. For those who wish to simplify the process and keep costs down, however, direct cremation is a helpful option.

When you’re looking for a knowledgeable and respectful funeral home to handle your loved one’s cremation, Mountain View Funeral Home in Mesa, AZ can help you with all of your funeral and cremation needs. We have our own crematorium, which means we can handle all of the details in one place, including direct cremation. Contact our caring staff today for more information.

Benefits Of Writing Your Own Obituary

Fri, 12 May 2017 15:58:00 GMT

Facing your own mortality is never easy. Writing your own obituary (also known as an autobituary ) may seem like an exercise that brings the subject too close to home. After all, creating the very words that others will read after your death is about as stark a reality check as you can get. You may be surprised, then, to learn that this practice can actually be cathartic, and even enhance your life here on earth.

There are multiple reasons to take the time to write your own final goodbye. The biggest advantage is that you can ensure you’re remembered exactly how you want to be remembered. Consider this: according to History.com , Alfred Nobel (creator of the Nobel Prize) may have gotten a preview of how others viewed him – in time to change it. Rumor has it that Nobel’s brother passed away, and the newspaper accidentally published Alfred’s obituary. The problem is that the obit deemed him “the merchant of death” (as the inventor of dynamite and munitions factory owner). As a result, Nobel created the Nobel Prize and altered the way the entire world saw him.

Another benefit of writing an autobituary is that you can let everyone know just how you feel about them, in your own words. It’s a very personal way of providing closure and comfort directly from your heart. The process can be as simple or comprehensive as you wish. Create a long document in your computer, or jot down a few notes with pen and paper. There are no rules as to how many or how few thoughts you need to communicate.

Finally, writing your own obituary may actually inspire you to live more fully. Seeing your life story and accomplishments in black and white can serve as inspiration to do those things you’ve been putting off, whether that means careers goals, personal development, or traveling to another country.

Regardless of who writes your obituary, funeral arrangements are a necessary step in everyone’s journey. Contact our compassionate staff at Mountain View Funeral Home for help with Phoenix area funeral planning.

Planning A Post-Funeral Reception

Mon, 08 May 2017 15:31:00 GMT

In the United States, it is customary to hold a reception after a funeral or memorial service. This provides time for family, friends, and others paying their respects to gather, share memories, and offer support to one another. While the reception is not typically meant to be a party, food and beverages are usually served.

If you are planning an after-funeral or memorial reception, you may be wondering what you need to do. Here is a list of suggestions to consider:

Determine the best location. There are many options to choose from when selecting a venue for the reception. Many people opt to host at the home of a friend or family member. You can also hold your reception at a restaurant, an event space, or the social hall of a religious place of worship. In some cases, you may want to hold the reception at a place that was special to the deceased, such as a favorite park.
Decide what to serve. The time of day can dictate what is appropriate to serve. Many memorials and funerals are held in the morning, so serving lunch afterward is typically expected. But don’t feel that you have to put out a huge spread. Often, you can order some deli plates with salads and some dessert and then ask others to bring some additional side dishes to supplement the meal. Most people are very willing to contribute something to the day and make things easier for you.
Ask for help. The last thing you want to do is spend your time playing host. The reception is a time for you to connect with others, not serve them. For this reason, you will want to recruit a few friends or neighbors to help in this capacity. If you hire a caterer, then you may also want to ask them to stay to help with serving and clean up.

Lastly, when planning your reception, you may want to have some photos of the deceased and perhaps some of their cherished mementos on display. If you have created a tribute video, you might also want to have it play on a continuous loop during the reception.

When you have questions or are looking for assistance with funeral planning, our compassionate staff at Mountain View Funeral Home is here to help. Contact us at (480) 832-2850.

Graveside Visits Can Help In the Grieving Process

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 16:19:00 GMT

As you may already know, there are various stages of grief that include shock, denial, anger, guilt, and depression. There is no right or wrong way to grieve, and going through the grief process can be very different from one person to the next.

There is also no set amount of time to go through the grieving process. It can take days, weeks, months, or years to come to terms with the acceptance of a loved one’s loss.

People who are grieving often benefit from quiet time of contemplation, meditation, and prayer. For many, having moments of solitude at their loved one’s graveside can help to provide a sense of connection and peace.

During a graveside visit, it is not unusual for someone in mourning to talk to the deceased. According to Shelly Beach, a seminary graduate and an instructor at Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, “Talking to dead loved ones helps some survivors move through the stages of grief, even though they’d admit that their loved ones aren’t really there .”

Beach also states that, “visiting a grave can be a way to try to remain connected to those who’ve died. Spouses may also feel comfortable expressing their deep emotion at a cemetery after the death of a loved one.”

While it is perfectly normal for a graveside visit to be comforting and help through the grieving process, it is also important to watch for signs of extreme depression if you are concerned about a grieving loved one. Look for symptoms of excessive crying, loss of interest in activities, poor concentration, fatigue or lack of sleep, significant weight change, or suicidal thoughts. If your loved one’s grief shows any of these signs over an extended period of time, you will want to seek the advice of a medical professional.

At Mountain View Funeral Home, we certainly understand that grief is a natural part of the process when you lose a loved one. We care about families and are here to make the funeral planning as easy as possible so you can focus on paying respects and healing.

For more information on how we can help you, please contact us here.

Unique Ideas For Cremation Dispostion

Fri, 14 Apr 2017 15:33:00 GMT

More and more, cremation is becoming a prevalent choice for final disposition. The Cremation Association of North America estimates that by 2020, more than half of Americans will choose this option. Whether you’re planning for your own final resting place or you’re a loved one looking for the right disposition solution, there are plenty of possibilities. Here are some truly unique ways to handle cremation disposition.

Garden Memorial

Cremains can be mixed with cement and pebbles to form a special memorial garden stone. This could be combined with an engraved plaque with information like name and dates. What better remembrance piece for the avid gardener? While it is legal to bury cremains on private property in Arizona, you should check with your local zoning authority first.

Stuffed Animal

A teddy bear with a small urn inside is a sweet way to commemorate a child’s life. It also works as a softer, more approachable vessel for your loved one’s cremains than a traditional urn.

Fireworks

For a more extreme option, your ashes could be mixed into fireworks and shot into the sky in a spectacular display of color. This is definitely a choice for those who want a very distinctive send-off.

Cremation Jewelry

If you prefer to keep your loved one with you at all times, jewelry urns are the ideal choice. These pieces are available in nearly any design you can think of – bracelets, pendants, rings, and more. There are many personalization options as well, from military insignias to sports themes.

Space Launch

Undoubtedly the most extravagant cremain disposition option of all – you can choose to be launched into outer space. Celestis will arrange for you to be taken into orbit, or even to the moon. You can stay there, or return home. There are substantial fees involved, of course.

Traditional Options

At Mountain View Funeral Home, we also provide traditional cremain disposition options such as columbariums (compartments designed to hold an urn, typically within a wall or building). Selecting a columbarium as a final resting place provides a peaceful place for family and friends to pay their respects.

Regardless of your choice for disposition, At Mountain View Funeral Home, we can help you with all your final plans. We are a full-service funeral home with an on-site crematorium. Contact us for more information.

Understanding Graveside Funeral Etiquette

Wed, 29 Mar 2017 21:08:00 GMT

There are several components involved in a funeral. As a guest, you want to know how to handle each one. A full-service funeral , as it is known, typically begins with a service at a church. In some cases – often in the event of cremation – a memorial service may be held at the funeral home. Some funeral homes, such as ours at Mountain View Funeral Home, have an onsite chapel and cemetery. Once the funeral itself is over, this is the time the graveside service takes place.

Should You Attend the Graveside Service?

Unless you read in the death notice or there is an announcement at the church service that the affair is private, you can usually assume that anyone who knew the deceased is welcome. If it is a private event, you should respect the family’s wishes. Simply send a card with your condolences in lieu of attendance.

What Is the Procedure for a Graveside Service?

After the church service, the funeral procession will leave for the cemetery. Unless you are part of the family, wait until all of the marked funeral vehicles leave, then follow the procession. Travel will be slow, so be patient and courteous.

Graveside Etiquette

Your phone should already be on silent, but if you forgot to do this, be sure to do it before you get to the gravesite. There may or may not be chairs. If there are, only sit if there are enough for family plus other attendees.

There are typically readings or prayers said during the service. If they call for a response, participate if you know the responses. Otherwise, remain respectfully quiet.

If you’ve brought young children along, walk them away from the gravesite area if they become restless.

Some religious or cultural rituals may dictate that family and/or friends participate in throwing dirt into the grave. If this is the case, follow the lead of those around you.

Stay until the service ends, then offer your respects to the family and leave quietly.

If you have any questions about a specific situation, or about planning a graveside service, contact our knowledgeable, compassionate staff here at Mountain View Funeral Home.

Funeral Service Eulogies

Fri, 24 Mar 2017 19:57:00 GMT

When you are immersed in the emotional process of planning your loved one’s funeral, the details can be overwhelming. You may be wondering about how to handle the eulogy. Your questions may include how many people should speak and how long the eulogy should be.

History of Eulogies

Eulogies are thought to have originated in ancient Greece as a form of mournful poetry called elegy. The word, literally translated, means “high praise”. Today, this brief remembrance speech is a way of relating what a loved one was like in life.

How Many People Should Give a Eulogy?

A eulogy may be given by clergy, family members, or even close friends. The decision of who should speak may involve a combination of factors. Certain family members may request to deliver a eulogy, while others may be too grief-stricken. The general rule of thumb is to allow those who want to speak to do so, if appropriate. But try to keep the number to a minimum so that the service will not run overly long. If you want to include various family members in the service, there are other ways they can do so including handing out programs or greeting guests.

In other cases, religious rubrics may dictate that only clergy deliver the eulogy. In that event, family is often able to contribute thoughts that they would like included in the speech. Some clergy members allow loved ones to share during the service, however prefer to keep the number of speakers to three or fewer. This keeps the funeral service from going on too long.

How Long Should the Eulogy Be?

In general, a few minutes should suffice for a eulogy. Three to five minutes is considered ideal. If you prefer, you can sometimes have your pastor or other officiant deliver a longer, main eulogy, while one or two people spend a couple of moments sharing memories of the person’s life.

How to Write the Eulogy

If you, as a loved one, are going to speak, there are some guidelines recommended by the NMFH (National Museum of Funeral History):

Choose an organizational structure such as chronological or thematic.
Write your eulogy down. This allows for another person to finish it if you become too overcome with emotion to finish.
Rehearse your speech, using your natural way of speaking.

If you or a loved one needs help planning the eulogy or other funeral details, we at Mountain View Funeral Home can assist you through the process. Contact our experienced staff with any questions you may have.

Choosing A Memorial Service Venue

Mon, 20 Mar 2017 19:32:00 GMT

A memorial service can be a therapeutic way to remember your loved one and share memories. This type of service is helpful if some family members or close friends were unable to make it to a previously held funeral due to distance or timing. It can also be the right solution if there was an immediate cremation without a full-service funeral. You also have flexibility with a memorial service because it can be held at any time. Have it within days, or even months later.

The other advantage of a memorial is that it can be held almost anywhere. Venue choices are limited only by the amount of time you have to plan, and facility availability.

Where to Hold a Memorial Service

As the Funeral Consumers Alliance points out, your location choice or theme should reflect who your loved one was. For example, if the deceased was active in church, clergy can help you arrange a service there.

Depending on their interests and personality, other possibilities include:

Flower gardens
Concert venue
Winery
Beach
A large backyard

For a more formal event, you could hold the memorial service at a funeral home, such as our facility at Mountain View Funeral Home. Whatever the case, the venue should be a place that your loved one would have enjoyed and also meets the practical requirements of the event.

Other Considerations

While making a final decision on the best memorial service venue for your situation, keep a few other things in mind.

What kind of ambiance is important?
Will there be food and drink, and who will provide it?
Do you want music or special lighting?
What kind of decorations do you want?
Do you need a projection screen for photos or videos?
How many guests will there be?
Could the weather cause problems?

At Mountain View Funeral Home in Mesa, we have the experience to assist you in planning and carrying out a memorial service. Just let us know what your needs are, and we will work with you to create a memorial service that honors your loved one and makes your guests feel welcome.

How To Care For Cremation Urns

Wed, 15 Mar 2017 15:02:00 GMT

Choosing a cremation urn for your departed loved one takes careful thought and consideration. You want to select something that reflects your feelings or your loved one’s personality. Perhaps you prefer an urn that coordinates with your home decor.

While your urn selection is an important one, so is knowing how to gently care for it throughout the years. Caring for a cremation urn isn’t difficult or time-consuming, however, the appropriate measures will depend upon what kind of urn you’ve chosen. At Mountain View Funeral Home we offer remembrance pieces in a variety of materials, each of which requires a different method to keep them looking their best.

Wood

Keep a wooden cremation urn in optimal shape by following these steps:

Routinely remove dust and dirt with a soft, dry cloth.
Treat with furniture polish every few months.
Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent drying and cracking.
Avoid using chemicals or water.

These simple steps will keep your wooden cremation urn in good condition for many years to come.

Metal

Placement is important for a metal urn because sun exposure or falls can damage the shape. Keep a metal urn on a stable surface, out of direct sunlight. Use a soft, dry cloth – never damp – to clean a metal cremation urn, as water can cause rust to form.

Glass and Marble

As with most urns, you should keep dust off glass or marble by simply wiping with a dry, soft cotton cloth from time to time. The difference with these materials is that you can use a damp cloth or glass cleaner to shine them. Just be sure to dry the urn completely afterwards, to prevent damage to the container.

Ceramic

There are two main points to remember when caring for a ceramic urn:

Place the urn on a sturdy surface high enough to prevent pets or children from knocking it over.
Use only a dry cloth to remove dust and dirt; water can damage the surface.

If you have any other questions regarding how to care for your cremation urn, please contact us at Mountain View Funeral Home in Mesa. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff is here to help you with all of your funeral planning needs and beyond.

Guidelines For Visiting A Gravesite

Mon, 06 Mar 2017 16:47:00 GMT

Even though visiting a loved one’s gravesite is commonplace in our culture, you may still have questions regarding how such visits should be carried out. Are there things you should or shouldn’t do? How can you ensure that you show respect during your visit?

Most cemeteries have their own general rules governing visitors to the property. It is helpful to be familiar with these before you go to your loved one’s gravesite. Below you’ll find some additional guidelines which can assist you in making the most of your visit.

When visiting a gravesite, be careful NOT to:

Allow children to run around unsupervised.
Park anywhere but in designated areas.
Litter (according to the International Association of Cemetery Preservationists , a good rule of thumb is to “leave only footprints”).
Be loud or disruptive (it’s okay to speak in low tones with those in your party).
Touch other headstones or monuments.
Leave your vehicle idling or play loud music.

Do feel free to:

Engage in quiet conversation with others in your party – reflect on your thoughts and feelings if desired, and share memories of your time with the deceased.
Lay flowers on, or place a flag near, the monument.
Kneel and/or pray.
Clean the monument, removing any dirt, debris, or sticks which have accumulated.
Sit on a bench for a bit, giving yourself space for healing to take place.
Speak to your loved one.

As long as you use common sense and behave in a way which is respectful to the dead as well as to other mourners, there is really no “right” way to visit your loved one’s gravesite. Take the time you need to process the emotions which may arise during your visit.

We invite you to consult our staff here at Mountain View Funeral Home if you have any questions regarding our cemetery or any aspect of visiting your loved one’s gravesite. We’re here to help with your funeral planning needs and beyond.

A Brief History Of Embalming

Mon, 27 Feb 2017 15:49:00 GMT

The art of preserving deceased individuals dates back thousands of years. This practice has taken different forms in various civilizations. Method have involved everything from spices and perfumes to arsenic-laced solutions.

Motivations have varied as much as techniques. Embalming has its roots in ancient Egypt. The Egyptians believed that the body should be attractive enough to lure the soul back to it for resurrection.

Origin of Modern Embalming

Fast forward a few thousand years and embalming took on a more functional purpose. The Civil War brought about a challenge – how to send fallen soldiers back home in a way such that their families could have a proper funeral. Also, railway systems eventually refused to transport deceased soldiers. This situation forced military personnel to bury them in unmarked graves in the field.

At the time, a Dr. Thomas Holmes of New York had been experimenting with preservation methods that began in France. He wanted to reduce the risk to medical students who worked with deceased study subjects. Dr. Holmes came up with a way to use arterial injection to embalm the deceased with a solution he had invented.

In 1861, Dr. Holmes was commissioned by Washington to embalm the first officer killed in the Civil War. This officer happened to be Col. Elmer Ellsworth, a good friend of President Lincoln.

The Rest Is History

Dr. Holmes, along with other physicians and pharmacists, quickly realized that there was a need for their services. Over time, funeral parlor owners followed suit.

You may be surprised to learn that embalming is not always necessary. Many times, it is up to the family whether or not to have it done. In fact, it is recommended that individuals specify their in their will, particularly if they do not wish to be embalmed.

If you’re not sure what your options are when it comes to this part of the planning process, consult with our caring staff at Mountain View Funeral Home. We’re here to answer any questions you might have and help you make the appropriate choices for your loved one. Contact us here.

What It Takes To Become A Mortician

Fri, 17 Feb 2017 16:39:00 GMT

Whether you’re considering becoming a mortician yourself or you want to ensure that you’re working with highly trained funeral professionals, you may be curious about the process of entering a funeral services career. Here are some details about what it takes to be a mortician.

What Is a Mortician?

A mortician, or funeral director, works with families to plan and carry out the details of final arrangements for their loved ones. This may involve moving and preparing the individual for the funeral, responsibility for a service respecting the family’s spiritual requirements and beliefs, and carrying out the cremation or burial.

Becoming a mortician requires high levels of compassion, business acumen, and interpersonal communication skills. The job often involves being on call at all hours of the day, which means that funeral directors also need strong dedication to their chosen path.

Education Required

In most states, a mortician must have a minimum of an associate’s degree in Mortuary Science. Some funeral homes in Arizona and around the country require a bachelor’s degree. According to the American Board of Funeral Service Education, there are about 60 Mortuary Science programs available across the United States.

Mortician and funeral director licensing requirements vary from state to state. Some states have their own state exam, while others, including Arizona, require candidates to pass the national board exam. An apprenticeship is also often an integral part of a mortician’s training, taking place before, during, or after mortuary school.

Caring and Compassionate Service

When you come to Mountain View Funeral Home, you can feel confident about the services you will receive, as Arizona also requires that morticians get 12 hours per year of continuing education. With nearly 70 years in the funeral services industry, our family-owned and operated funeral home is also known for our caring and compassionate staff who are here to help. We have the necessary training, experience, and understanding to give our clients the comprehensive level of service they deserve during this difficult time.

For more information, please contact us at Mountain View Funeral Home.

Step-By-Step Funeral Planning

Wed, 08 Feb 2017 16:16:00 GMT

Preplanning a funeral is practical for many reasons. The first, of course, is that you are able to make your own choices about your own funeral. You can make decisions about whether you want to have a traditional burial or if you prefer cremation. You can also leave directions on special ways you want to be remembered.

Planning ahead of time also makes it easier on your family. Naturally, they will be grieving at your loss. If your funeral is already planned, then your family will not have to spend as much time making arrangements or decisions on how to memorialize you.

As we all know, however, preplanning isn’t always an option, nor is it always done. This is especially so when a death occurs unexpectedly. If you have found yourself in a position where you need to plan a funeral for a loved one, here is a step-by-step guide to help you.

Inform Others. Depending on the circumstances, you may need to let necessary authorities know of the person’s passing. If accidental, then certainly the local police should be notified. If your loved one was hospitalized, then the medical staff will make the necessary calls. You will also want to let others know who are close to your loved one. Family and friends should be at the top of that list.
Find A Funeral Home. If you loved one did not specify a particular funeral home, you will need to find one yourself. Often, family members have used certain funeral homes before, so it is worth asking them. Hospital staffs can also provide names of local funeral homes if your loved one died in the hospital.
Meet With The Funeral Director. The Funeral Director will be a very helpful resource to you. He or she will also be a source of comfort during this difficult time. The Funeral Director will also help you coordinate each aspect of the funeral and assist you with any and all questions you might have.
Purchasing Essentials. Whether you are planning a ground burial or cremation, there are certain items that need to be selected. Caskets and urns, for example, can be purchased directly from a funeral home. You will also want to consider such things as grave markers and a guest book for the funeral or memorial service.
Plan The Ceremony Or Memorial. There are a number of ways to honor a loved one who has passed away. From traditional religious services to celebrations of life, you will want to make plans that will meet your needs and the wishes of your loved one. You may also want to consider hosting a reception for guests after the service.

While there are many more details involved in planning a funeral or memorial, this guide will help you get a good start. At Mountain View Funeral Home, we are here to help. Serving the local community since 1951, we offer full-service funeral planning including an on-site crematory and cemetery.

Please contact us here if we can be of help to you.

What To Know If Someone Dies While In Another State

Fri, 03 Feb 2017 18:41:00 GMT

According to the U.S. Travel Association , Americans go on a total of more than one-and-a-half billion trips each year. While passing away during travel is not typically something people anticipate, life is always uncertain. Should someone die while out of state, it is important to understand that there are some additional steps that are required if you want to transport your loved one home. At Mountain View Funeral Home, we can help you make the necessary arrangements to help simplify this process for you.

Going Home

Preparation and transportation are typically the first steps in the process of dealing with the situation if you die out of state. Each state’s laws differ, however most require embalming to take place before the deceased may cross state lines. Transport may take place by ground or airplane, depending upon the distance from your home state. These things can be arranged through a mortuary located in the city where the death occurred. This is known as the shipping funeral home, and they will take care of all necessary documentation, preparation, and transportation arrangements. This assistance can ease some of the burden on loved ones who are coping with their loss.

Alternatively, some families choose cremation, which is performed by the shipping funeral home. This simplifies the process somewhat if the deceased had already made their wish for cremation known. Then loved ones may carry out the funeral or memorial service at your preferred funeral home upon arrival back in your home state.

Planning Ahead

At Mountain View Funeral Home, our goal is to help families as much as possible throughout the difficult time that accompanies a loss. Utilizing our pre-planning services means that your loved ones will have one less thing to worry about when the time comes. Whether a death happens out of state or in the Phoenix area, our funeral home staff is ready to assist you in the following days to ensure everything goes smoothly.

World’s Most Expensive Funerals

Mon, 23 Jan 2017 16:48:00 GMT

Funeral costs can vary depending on the kind of funeral you want to have. You will want to consider your budget, as well as what is important to you when planning your own funeral or that of a loved one.

Of course, we have all been witness to some of the most elaborate funerals over the past few decades. From the King of Rock to British Royalty, celebrities and well-known dignitaries have been honored with some of the most expensive funerals ever.

Here are some of those that top the list:

Elvis Presley

Elvis’s family spent nearly $25,000 for his funeral. That may not sound like an exorbitant amount, but remember, it was 1977 when The King died. With the number of fans that descended upon Memphis for the funeral, however, then-President Jimmy Carter had to order 300 National Guards to help keep order in the streets. This brought the actual cost of the funeral up to an even greater amount.

Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson’s passing was an incredible shock to the world. The King of Pop’s music and his legacy left a lasting mark in musical and popular culture. When he passed in 2009, he was preparing his comeback through a series of concerts called “This Is It”. His $1 million dollar memorial service was held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles and was attended by a flood of celebrities, some who performed or gave eulogies.

Princess Diana

One of the most glamorous and beloved figures in recent history, Diana died in a car crash in Paris in 1997. The world was in shock. As the former wife of the Prince of Wales, she was no longer considered a member of the royal family. For this reason, it was initially decided by the monarchy that flags should not fly at half-mast. This caused a public outcry. Because she was much-loved, the Queen had a change of heart and allowed Diana a ceremonial funeral that cost the equivalent of $11.8 million dollars today.

Queen Mother

Britain’s Queen Mother, the mother of Queen Elizabeth II, passed away in 2002. She was given a ceremonial funeral in London’s Westminster Abbey. The cost of the funeral was more than $9 million dollars, which equates to roughly $12 million in today’s currency.

Pope John Paul II

This well-loved papal leader was admired the world over for his kindness and compassion. He had such an impact that, when he died in 2005, even leaders from Cuba and North Korea sent their condolences. His Catholic funeral brought together the largest gathering of heads of state in history.

John F. Kennedy

Our nation and the world grieved at the tragic death by assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Those who were alive at the time can vividly remember where they were upon hearing the news of his passing in 1963. Kennedy’s somber $15 million dollar funeral was held in Washington, D.C. He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery, and it is reported that his burial plot alone cost $13 million dollars.

Ronald Reagan

One of our nation’s most admired presidents, Ronald Reagan, died in 2004 at the age of 93. Reagan was given a state funeral service at the Washington National Cathedral after lying in state for thirty-four hours in the Capitol rotunda. His casket was then transported before his body was returned to California for interment at the Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley. The $400 million dollar funeral costs were so high largely due to the declaration of a national day of mourning that closed down the stock market and gave federal employees the day off of work.

Fortunately, at Mountain View Funeral Home, you do not have to spend the likes of the rich and famous when planning a funeral. We offer a variety of affordable services and products to meet every need. Contact us here to learn more about how we can help you.

Who Do You Need To Notify When Someone Passes Away?

Wed, 18 Jan 2017 16:42:00 GMT

When a loved one passes away, the combination of grief and shock can be overwhelming. It can be difficult to focus on dealing with the personal business that needs to be addressed after someone dies. At Mountain View Funeral Home, we know that there can be a lot to do, which is why we are here to help make things easier for you.

If your loved one has already preplanned their funeral, your job will be much easier. Our funeral directors can make sure that the deceased’s wishes are honored when it comes to the logistics of a funeral and final disposition.

But there are other details that must be attended to. Here is a list of some of the documents to gather and people/agencies to notify upon your loved one’s passing.

Documents

Living Trust or Will
Death certificate
Birth and marriage certificates
Social security card
Real estate documents
Tax records
Insurance policies and account records
Bank account records

People

Personal representative/executor (if not yourself)
Physicians/health professionals
Funeral Director
Family and friends
Clergy members
Attorney
Landlord
Accountant

Agencies

Social Security Administration
Banks
Insurance companies
Medicare
Utility companies
Creditors
Motor Vehicle Division
Voter registration
Post office
Employers and pensions

While there may be others you will need to notify, this list will give you a general idea of where to start.

If you are making contact in writing, here is a sample letter to help you with what to say:

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing to inform you of the death of the following person:

Name of deceased

Street address

City, State, ZIP code

Date of birth:

Date of death:

I understand that the deceased had business with your organization, and I am requesting that you update your records. The account or reference # is: (insert account or reference #). Please send confirmation to me at the below address. Should you have any questions, please contact me, as well.

Your name

Street address

City, State, ZIP code

Telephone

Email:

Relationship to the deceased:

Thank you very much for your prompt attention. Please contact me if you have any questions.

Signature

Date

While this is a simplified checklist of what you need to do, we understand that there is much more to think about during this challenging time. Please know that our caring and compassionate staff at Mountain View Funeral Home are here to guide you and offer assistance. Contact us here for more information.

Funeral Homes In Mesa AZ | Death Certificates

Mon, 07 Nov 2016 16:10:00 GMT

There are many legal and personal matters that will require a formal death certificate and Mountain View Funeral Home is one of the funeral homes in Mesa AZ that can help you with this request.

What is a Death Certificate?

A death certificate is a government-issued, official document that states the location, time and cause of death plus additional personal information about the person who passed. These documents are legally required to be issued when death occurs and allow relatives to act on behalf of the deceased to take care of personal business such as insurance paperwork, medical bills and more.

How are Death Certificates Used?

There are a variety of reasons that your will need a death certificated for your loved one, and getting the certificate from one of the funeral homes in Mesa AZ is your best option to obtain this important document. Attorneys will require a death certificate to settle an estate, the government will need a copy to provide Medicaid benefits, and a spouse may also need a death certificate to legally be allowed to marry again in the future. Spouses may also be able to get death benefits such as a pension or other forms of payment from a previous job.

How Can I Obtain a Death Certificate?

Among funeral homes in Mesa AZ, Mountain View Funeral Home can help you with funeral plans, as well as with obtaining copies of a death certificate for your legal and personal needs. Our caring and organized staff can help you retrieve this document as well as many others that are required throughout the process of laying your loved one to rest .

If you have questions or concerns as you’re going through this challenging time, we are here to help. Whether your loved one will be interred or cremated, our staff can help make the early and last-minute decisions easy for you and your loved ones so you can focus on supporting each other as a family.

Burial Services | Guidelines

Mon, 26 Sep 2016 16:59:00 GMT

Nearly everyone understands that when you see a line of vehicles traveling closely together–led by a police escort, all with their lights on–that you’re seeing a funeral procession heading towards burial services. However, did you know that there is definitely a protocol to being in the funeral procession, as well as specific ways that you can show your respect to the deceased? At Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery , we get a lot of questions about this topic and hope we can offer some guidance.

General Rules

There are a few general rules that everyone who is involved in a funeral procession should follow, such as always keep your headlights on for the entire drive to the cemetery. Here are a few other tips:

Stay close to the vehicle in front of you, so other drivers will understand that you’re all together and it’s inappropriate to cut in.
Be prepared to take your time. Funeral processions normally go between 30-40 miles per hour on main roads and less than 60 mph on the highway. This is to ensure that the formation remains tight and keeps the participants safe from harm.
You have the right of way when you’re on the way to burial services, so don’t be concerned if you’re going through red lights on the way there. Other motorists must yield.
If you are the last vehicle in the funeral procession, the funeral home will often provide you with flags for your vehicle to signify that you are at the end of the procession. Cemetery attendants will collect the flags upon your arrival at the burial services site.

Arriving at the Cemetery

Once you’ve arrived for the burial services, it’s important to stay respectful for the deceased. This can be especially difficult if you have small children, but encourage them to speak in low voices and to conduct themselves with as much dignity as possible. Be sure to leave spaces nearest the grave site for close family. It is not unusual for distant family and friends to be standing during the short burial services.

When you keep these tips in mind, you’re offering the highest level of respect to the family of the deceased. If you have questions about where you should park the day of a funeral, always ask our considerate staff and they can help you park appropriately to be a part of the procession.

Funeral Plot | Planning

Mon, 19 Sep 2016 15:52:00 GMT

Many Americans choose cremation as their final disposition, but more than half of individuals in the U.S. still want to be interred at a cemetery–meaning it makes good sense to find a suitable final resting place before you need it. There are actually several advantages to purchasing a funeral plot in advance, regardless of whether you decide to be buried above or below ground .

Location, Location, Location

If you live in the city, it’s easy to believe the old adage that “They’re not making any more land!”–space is at a premium and you may end up paying the price if you wait around. The same can be said of a prime funeral plot location, because if you wait around it may not be available when you truly need it. Most of the 40,000 cemeteries in the U.S. are facing a harsh reality: they will eventually run out of room. Land restrictions are limiting the amount of land where it is permissible to inter human remains.

Rising Prices

Inflation is a serious topic, and one that most people don’t want to consider. As land gets more scarce it will also become more expensive, and the dollars spent on land now will multiply perhaps hundreds of times in your lifetime. If you have the option of spending eternity with your family overlooking a beautiful vale or a less-optimal location, which would you choose?

Your Choice

Perhaps the best reason for purchasing a funeral plot sooner than you need it, is that waiting can cause consternation and concerns within your family if you should pass away before the decision is made. If you feel strongly about a specific burial site, purchasing your funeral plot early in life can ensure that not only will you have the final peaceful resting place that you deserve, but can save some family heartache in the long-run.

There is no one answer for when you should purchase your funeral plot , but if you make the decision during your funeral pre-planning process you’re removing one more burden from your family when you pass beyond the mortal veil. If you have questions about purchasing your funeral plot or need more information about funeral pre-planning, contact our friendly and knowledgeable staff at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery.

Military Funeral | Symbolism

Mon, 12 Sep 2016 15:56:00 GMT

Just like many other parts of service to our country, a military funeral is steeped in tradition and symbolism. Whether you’re the parent, spouse or loved one of a fallen military member, it’s good to understand the various symbols and what they mean as these thoughts may help you feel the full power of their sacrifice during difficult days and weeks ahead.

Covered Caskets

According to a patriotic tradition that was started during the Naploeonic wars, anytime a fallen soldier is being transferred to the place of interment , the casket should be covered by the American flag–always with the field of blue over the left shoulder of the deceased.

Military Honors

Full military funeral honors, such as those awarded to Presidents or heads of state, require a horse-drawn caisson to transport the body. In the case of Army or Marine Corps soldiers of a high rank, a riderless horse is led as part of the procession–signaling that the fallen will never ride again.

Playing Taps

The single, solitary bugle call is the final farewell to a fallen soldier, signifying “Lights out”. Originally used during the Civil War, Taps continues to be the traditional way to honor the lost during a military funeral.

Duty, Honor and Country

If you have ever attended a military funeral, you’re likely familiar the presentation of a folded flag to the family. However, did you know that the flag also contains three bullets that signify Duty, Honor and Country? The history behind this custom is simple–two warring factions would grant each other a time of grace to clear their wounded and fallen from the battlefield, without hostilities. When the battle was ready to resume, three volleys were fired to indicate a return to the fight. There is some debate with experts on military tradition whether the shell casings should be slipped into the flag or presented separately.

If you have questions about military funerals or how to honor a fallen soldier, our friendly and knowledgeable team members can help find you answers. At Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery, we also offer a wide range of personal services to meet your needs and those of your loved ones.

Cemetery | Graveside Service

Mon, 05 Sep 2016 15:42:00 GMT

Planning a funeral can be overwhelming, and if you’re unfamiliar with the terminology or structure of a traditional service than it can be difficult to know where to start. Our knowledgeable and compassionate funeral directors and their staff will help answer any questions about the cemetery, mortuary or funeral services, and ensure that you’re getting the information that you need to make the right decision for your loved one.

What to Expect

Just as every life is different, so is each final celebration of life. A graveside service can precede a memorial, but most often is the final element in a traditional ground interment ceremony. This may be the most brief portion of the memorial for your loved one, and there may not be a great deal of room for sitting or standing around the deceased. Since it is generally an outdoor service, there is always the possibility of inclement weather, and not all of the family and friends generally travel to the grave site so this service may be smaller and more intimate than a traditional memorial held at the funeral home.

Key Service Elements

While in general, participation is optional, there are certain elements that are found in many graveside services. These include:

Reading of a poem or Bible verse
Shared song, where visitors are encouraged to sing
Eulogy
Prayer or spiritual thoughts from the officiant
Lowering of the casket

While in some cultures it is customary to have guests shovel a bit of dirt into the grave, in others families lay a single flower on top of the body. The casket is customarily closed and sealed before the service begins in the cemetery so it is ready for final interment into the ground after the mourners have left the area.

Graveside services are often open to the public, even when a service may be limited to the family only. If you have any questions about whether or not to attend, contacting our staff at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery is a good option as we will know the specific requests of the family and can share recommendations.

Funeral Music For An Elderly Parent

Fri, 02 Sep 2016 15:12:00 GMT

When planning a memorial service for an elderly parent, you want to be sure that the funeral music is appropriate, tasteful and meaningful. When your family has been impacted with a loss–expected or not–it can be difficult to think of favorite songs that would be appropriate. Listed below are we have provided some excerpts of some songs to consider here. We hope that these examples will be helpful to you as you search for just the right funeral music to memorialize your beloved parent.

In the Arms of an Angel , Sarah McLachlan

In the arms of an Angel fly away from here
From this dark, cold hotel room, and the endlessness that you fear
You are pulled from the wreckage of your silent reverie
You’re in the arms of an Angel; may you find some comfort here

Amazing Grace, Traditional Hymn

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me….
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now, I see.

My Heart Will Go On, Celine Dion

Near, far, wherever you are
I believe that the heart does go on
Once more you open the door
And you’re here in my heart
And my heart will go on and on

Thanks for the Memory, Bob Hope and Shirley Ross

Thanks for the memory
Of rainy afternoons, swingy Harlem tunes
Motor trips and burning lips and burning toast and prunes
How lovely it was

Thanks for the memory
Of candlelight and wine, castles on the Rhine
The Parthenon, and moments on the Hudson River line
How lovely it was

We’ll Meet Again, Vera Lynn

So will you please say “Hello”
To the folks that I know
Tell them I won’t be long
They’ll be happy to know
That as you saw me go
I was singing this song

Just As I Am , Mahalia Jackson

Just as I am, without one plea
But that Thy blood was shed for me
And that Thou bid’st me come to Thee
O Lamb of God, I come! I come

Just as I am, though tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt
Fighting and fears within without
O Lamb of God, I come, I come

Nearer My God to Thee , Traditional Hymn

Though like the wanderer, the sun gone down,
Darkness be over me, my rest a stone;
Yet in my dreams I’d be
Nearer, my God, to thee;
Nearer, my God, to thee, nearer to thee!

Tears in Heaven , Eric Clapton

Would you know my name
If I saw you in heaven?
Would it be the same
If I saw you in heaven?
I must be strong and carry on
‘Cause I know I don’t belong here in heaven

My Way , Frank Sinatra

And now, the end is near
And so I face the final curtain
My friend, I’ll say it clear
I’ll state my case, of which I’m certain
I’ve lived a life that’s full
I traveled each and every highway
And more, much more than this, I did it my way

Wind Beneath My Wings , Bette Midler

It must have been cold there in my shadow,
To never have sunlight on your face.
You were content to let me shine, that’s your way.
You always walked a step behind.

So I was the one with all the glory,
While you were the one with all the strength.
A beautiful face without a name for so long.
A beautiful smile to hide the pain.

Whether you choose a traditional hymn, a “golden oldies” tune or something a little more contemporary for your funeral music, keep your audience in mind and the personality of your loved one. This special time is an opportunity to celebrate the beauty that your loved one brought to life, and music is an evocative way to bring that feeling to your audience. If you have questions or need assistance, contact our caring and compassionate funeral directors . We would be honored to help with your funeral music selection.

Burial Vaults | History

Fri, 19 Aug 2016 15:35:00 GMT

Many people are under the impression that the casket selected for underground burial is what will physically be in contact with the earth, but that is not the case. A burial vault, also known as a grave liner, is a container that is often made of concrete that the casket is placed inside of. The purpose of the burial vault is to prevent a grave from sinking or settling into the earth when maintenance equipment is driven over it. While original vaults were made of wood, today’s concrete is much more sturdy and durable.

Early Grave Vaults

Grave vaults or liners are a relatively new construct as they were rarely used before the 1800s . Back in those days, vaults were often made of wood, brick, iron or steel and had a primary purpose of preventing grave robbery–which apparently was much more common back then, as loved ones were often buried with expensive jewelry or other finery. As grave tenders noticed that those graves with a burial vault did not tend to sink into the ground, they began to be adopted for other reasons as well.

Modern Burial Vaults

Modern vaults enclose the casket completely, and are lowered into the grave first with the lid on the vault left open. Once the casket has been lowered into the vault, the vault lid is added and secured. The vault, made of plastic, metal or concrete, is different from a burial liner, which does not have a bottom. When using a burial liner, the casket is lowered directly into the ground and the liner is lowered on top of the casket. A variety of styles, colors and finishes are available and the burial vaults can even be lined on the inside with precious metals such as bronze or copper.

Your state or cemetery may require that a burial vault or liner be used in your burial, but they are not legally mandated across the U.S. Interestingly enough, while burial vaults are used in the majority of U.S. burials, this construct is very rarely found around the world.

If you have questions about whether a vault or liner will be required for your burial, contact us today and our friendly service team will be happy to help you.

Funeral Prices | Planning

Mon, 15 Aug 2016 15:19:00 GMT

Planning a personalized funeral can be a great way to bring together everything that you love about your special someone. While funeral prices are rising everywhere, this doesn’t mean that you don’t have options to personalize your funeral. Far from it–you can customize many different options about the funeral of a loved one without adding a lot of cost. Here’s some ideas for making funerals special without breaking the bank:

Creative Floral Arrangements

While flowers are admittedly a big expense at many funerals, having a creative floral arrangement does not add much more to funeral prices than traditional flowers do. Think about what your loved one enjoyed–long walks in the part might translate into a floral arrangement that includes mossy greens, interesting twisted branches and a clean, simple look. Flowers for a Dad who loved fishing could incorporate a fishing pole, a painted wooden fish as an enhancement, and sports lovers could have lays (the flowers that are laid over the casket) in the colors of their favorite team.

Musical Appreciation

Funeral music is another way to personalize your service without adding to funeral prices. Select music that your loved one would enjoy hearing and that brings back fond memories for the listener. While funerals are a sad and emotional time, bringing in some elements that are lighter can help people move towards a positive light and remember all that they loved about their special someone. Music can be evocative of many different emotions, and can be changed depending on where you are in the service or memorial. Playing music that is memorable during the viewing can help color the tone of that portion of the memorial as well.

Graveside Services

Personalizing a funeral parade by adding a motorcycle-drawn hearse or a dove release are both great ways to make the graveside service memorable. A sense of peace and comfort can be derived by the family from a dove release, signifying the change of state and letting go.

When you’re planning a funeral, it’s always helpful to have someone knowledgeable to share ideas with, so please feel free to call us at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery . We can help you see the different options available and select exactly the right service for your loved one.

Cremation Costs

Wed, 10 Aug 2016 15:09:00 GMT

Millions of people die every year, but why are nearly half of these individuals choosing cremation? Well, cremation costs may be a part of that choice–they are significantly lower than burial costs and the economy isn’t great. Cost certainly isn’t the only reason for this shift, religion and family are also contributing and the softening of the Catholic Church towards the practice is contributing as well. As Americans spread out away from their nuclear family, cremation is an increasingly-popular choice.

Popular and Cost-Effective

Many states in the U.S. boast a cremation rate over 70%, and that is because cremation costs can drop to as much as 1/3 of the cost of a traditional visitation, memorial and burial. Popularity continues to rise as individuals look for ways to remember their loved ones through personal remembrance options such as gorgeous memorial jewelry or urns that are displayed within the home.

Cremation Costs

How are crematoriums and funeral homes able to keep the costs so low? There are several factors that contribute to the reduced cremation costs: you don’t need to purchase an expensive metal casket, burial plot, headstone, or burial vault–all of which can add up to five thousand dollars or more. Cremation costs are often limited to the cost of cremation, the urn and casket rental, although the cost of urns can be higher depending on your choices.

Final Disposition of the Ashes

Many individuals are choosing cremation as it allows their ashes to be scattered throughout their favorite places, with popular locations being the beach, mountains or special valleys. Another trend is having loved ones take a final trip together to scatter ashes several different places where family spent time together vacationing. This option can serve as a way to grieve together while celebrating a life well-lived–something that can prove to be a comforting thought during your loved one’s final days.

Learn more about cremation costs and determine whether or not this is the right option for you when you speak with our knowledgeable and understanding team at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery.

Cost Of Funeral | Caskets

Mon, 08 Aug 2016 15:06:00 GMT

If you’ve been to several funerals, you may have noticed that there are a broad range of caskets available on the market–from bronze, copper, steel to hardwood–and that they can contain elaborate designs on both the interior and exterior. Caskets can add to the cost of funeral expenses significantly, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for and the different types and sizes of caskets before you start planning.

Metal Caskets

Caskets generally fall into two categories: metal and wood. Metal caskets are available in stainless steel, copper, steel, and bronze and offer your loved one a permanent, non-rusting home for their earthly remains. Used for millennia to create monuments and sculptures, metal caskets provide a prestigious statement for your loved one and make a visual impact during a viewing but can add to the cost of funeral expenses significantly.

Wood Caskets

Wood caskets come in a wide variety of hardwood options including walnut, mahogany, cherry, pine, oak, poplar and even veneer. With the look of fine furniture, these hardwood caskets are often hand-rubbed with layers of finish to offer a rich and highly-polished patina. Pine, poplar and veneer wood caskets can help reduce the cost of funeral expenses as they are a cost-effective option that still provides the beauty of natural materials.

Cremation Caskets

While you can utilize an elaborate hardwood casket for a cremation casket, you may decide to use a more inexpensive cremation casket instead. A variety of styles and prices are available, but in general these caskets are sturdy and durable and made of solid wood and other composite components so they are fully combustible. Cremation containers are similar to cremation caskets, but may be only slightly more elaborate than the required cardboard alternative container.

If you need more information about caskets or questions about casket sizes, contact our team at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery. We can help you determine the cost of funeral services based on your particular hardwood or metal casket needs. We can also answer your memorial, burial and casket questions 24/7 on our hotline .

Military Funerals | Honoring Soldiers

Mon, 25 Jul 2016 17:03:00 GMT

Military life is steeped in symbolism and tradition, and the honor and respect shown to the deceased at military funerals is certainly no exception. While in many ways a military funeral is very similar to a traditional funeral, there are certain aspects that highlight the dignity and solemnity of the occasion.

Honor Guards

While it is traditional for friends and family members of the deceased to carry the casket, in military funerals this can be modified to a full honor guard–a six-man contingent in full dress uniform–that carries the casket to the grave site. This is a compelling sight, and one that will not soon be forgotten by the family and serves as one of the final thanks for the service to their country.

Firing Three Volleys

While this is not always part of the service, in a full military funeral an odd number of service people from 3-7 will fire three volleys into the air. The size of the firing party is determined by the rank of the deceased.

Playing of “Taps”

A lone bugler, standing from 30-50 yards from the grave site, will play “Taps” or in some cases this honor could be an audio recording if a bugler is unavailable. This moving tribute began as a humble bugle call during the Civil War and was originally called ‘Extinguish Lights’. If you want to learn more about the history of “Taps”, read our in-depth article on its origin.

Ceremonial Flag

Once the service has been completed, the final step of a military funeral ritual includes the ceremonial flag folding and presentation. Proper folding of the flag is critical as there is meaning behind each step of the fold. Once the folding is completed by the military honor guard, three spent shell casings from the volleys are often placed inside the final fold before it is formally presented to the next of kin.

At Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery, we have a great respect for individuals who served our country, and actively look for ways to assure that they receive the full honors for which they are entitled. If you need more information, our funeral directors are well-versed in the various options available for your loved one.

Embalming vs Mummification

Wed, 20 Jul 2016 16:50:00 GMT

While the term ‘mummification’ may bring up thoughts of Ancient Egypt, ’embalming’ feels like a more contemporary term and a process that is still used today. However, embalming is merely one step of the mummification process that involves the deliberate preservation of a body to forestall decomposition for any period of time. While it is not believed that any modern peoples are still using the full mummification process to protect the bodies of those they have lost, embalming is still a widely-used practice at funeral homes .

Masters of Mummification

Egyptians are widely known as the masters of the complicated process of mummification, a process that took upwards of 70 days from removal of internal organs to the final restorative beautification. Starting around 3,000 BC, professional mummers would treat bodies with natural salts to remove all the damaging liquids from the body before coating it in warm resin and eventually with over 150 yards of linen strips applied in layers. Oddly enough, while Egyptians are thought to be the originators of the mummification process, it was actually the early South Americans who began the embalming and mummification process around 5,000 BC–2,000 years before Ancient Egyptians!

Embalming

Modern embalming is generally thought to have started during the Civil War period and was encouraged by President Lincoln as a way to allow lost soldiers to be returned to their hometowns for a proper burial. Embalming today is undertaken less for a desire of long-term preservation of the body than for the ability to allow a few extra days for friends and family to gather to celebrate the life of the deceased. The discovery of formaldehyde allowed for a relatively quick method of disinfecting and preserving the human body from decomposition.

While few topics around death are comfortable, it can be helpful to understand the basis and reasoning behind why specific steps are taken in the process. While embalming may feel like a medieval process to some, it is also a procedure that is meant to allow family and friends to view the body after passing. If you have questions about embalming or any other aspects of memorials or funeral planning, contact our 24-hour answer line at 1-866-684-1951 or visit Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery during normal working hours.

What to Know About Mausoluems

Fri, 15 Jul 2016 15:40:00 GMT

Choosing a Mausoleum for a Final Resting Place

Cremation is rising in popularity in America, and the variety of ways that you can store final remains also continues to grow. Whether you’ve chosen cremation or entombment, you may want an option that allows your family to visit your remains after you pass to provide comfort to those who remain. C olumbariums and a mausoleum perform similar functions in that they both store remains; however, there are several differences between the two.

Mausoleums

There are three main types of mausoleum : indoor, outdoor or private. Indoor mausoleums are often air-conditioned spaces that offer an opportunity for family to stop and visit with their loved ones on comfortable benches. Our New Wall of Peace II includes a gated meditation area with a lighted water featured. Options for entombment include waterfall niches, wall niches and cenotaphs.

Chapel Mausoleum

Mountain View Funeral Home has a unique option for families interested in indoor entombment in our Desert Star Chapel Mausoleum–a large and beautiful structure that provides an elegant yet affordable option for families. Indoor worship services as well as graveside and committal services can be held within this sacred space.

Garden Mausoleums

Outdoor mausoleums are a way to feel in tune both with your loved one and with nature, with open-air structures that provide a lasting remembrance option. Mountain View offers four garden mausoleums : Hope, Prayer, Faith and Charity–and each adjoins a garden of the same name.

Columbariums

Selecting cremation does not limit your options for entombment or interment. Your cremains can be safely stored in a columbarium and will offer your loved ones a lifetime of comfort. SImilar to a mausoleum, a columbarium offers wall spaces, or “niches”, which are much smaller and are the perfect size for a cremation urn and even some family mementos. Columbariums are often included as part of a mausoleum or can be standalone private family structures.

Selecting a final structure for your entombment does not have to be confusing. You may want to consider how your family will be visiting as well. If they are more likely to be visiting in the long summer months, an indoor and air-conditioned space may be a better choice. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be pleased to answer any questions and provide you with all of the options that Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery offers for your final resting place.

Cremation Urns To Match Personality

Fri, 17 Jun 2016 15:28:00 GMT

In previous centuries, cremation urns were basically a storage medium for the cremated remains (cremains) of a loved one. Today there are many different options for non-traditional cremation urns. Finding just the right urn based on your needs may feel challenging, but with assistance from the professionals here at Mountain View Funeral Home , you’ll soon find the ideal final home for your loved one that really expresses their personality and style.

Urn Size

The single most important factor when selecting a cremation urn is the size of the vessel and how it will be used. Options available include: companion urns, individual urns, and keepsake urns or even memorial jewelry . In general, you’ll need an urn that is one cubic inch per pound of pre-cremation body weight for an individual, or a little less. If your loved one weighed 160 pounds, you’ll need an urn with at least 160 cubic inches of space available. Having an urn that is larger than needed is not considered a problem.

Types of Urns

With all types of options available from a simple wooden box urn to a fully decorated, painted and engraved vessel, you will have plenty of choices for your loved one. You can even commission a custom piece to show your respect and love. Materials include metal, glass, ceramic, wood, stone or a mixture of the various options. Your cremation urn options are limited only by your imagination.

Showing Support for the Environment

Environmentally friendly urns are among the most popular options available today, as more people wish to dedicate themselves to the earth and make a final statement about their love for the world. Biodegradable urns can be used for scattering ashes at sea and many will be fully degraded in less than one week.

Sport and Hobby Urns

Your loved one may have been dedicated to a particular sport or team during their life, and displaying this love in a long-term fashion can be accomplished by selecting a more colorful or shaped hunting, fishing, or hobby urns such as those commemorating knitting or even dance.

Once you’ve determined the size of the cremation urn that is needed, the sky is literally the limit for the type of urn that you select. Keep personality in mind and don’t be afraid to go for a non-traditional option. Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery offers a full crematory , and you’ll find plenty of remembrance options as well. Selecting a cremation urn for your loved one can bring back many good memories, and allow you to make a final expression on their behalf about a life full of joy.

Choosing Donations and Flowers for a Cremation Service

Wed, 15 Jun 2016 16:10:00 GMT

Why Choose Cremation

Why cremation – of all the possible end-of-life options? It may not be your preference, but since your loved one requested it, you intend to comply with their wishes.

But what do you do when it comes to accepting gestures from family and friends? Is this OK when your loved one is cremated?

Flowers are always a thoughtful way to express sympathy. Donations are also quite acceptable.

San Tan Mountain View Funeral Home offers the following recommendations:

Flower arrangements are acceptable for the memorial services, but attendees will not view the actual cremation – only immediate family, if desired.
Often times, floral arrangements are placed around a photo or picture of the dearly departed.
If you opt to have an inurnment service, you can also suggest that it would be nice to have attendees at the ceremony bring a single bloom/rose to place at the site, as a way to say ”goodbye.” They can be given a choice between this and the flower arrangement at the memorial service if you would like.
It is also appropriate to indicate that donations in the departed’s name be made to a favorite cause, charity, or organization that is related to the cause of death. This can provide an option to do something meaningful. not just symbolic.

If the deceased was partial to certain kind of plants or flowers, you can let people know in advance. There are some religions that may not find flowers acceptable at a cremation – like Hinduism. However, Western religions do not have this issue.

Under most circumstances, attendees have the same choices for showing they care as they would for a traditional funeral service. However, it is a common concern. It is almost as common as the question – Why cremation?

If you have questions about why cremation is chosen over a funeral, or cremation memorial etiquette, our compassionate staff is pleased to assist you. We are here to ensure that all of your requests are met with the utmost attention to detail. You can reach us at 480-832-2850 or toll free at: 1-866-684-1951.

Mesa Funeral Homes | Grief Support Group

Fri, 10 Jun 2016 15:30:00 GMT

Coping With the Stages of Grief

The stages of grief are well-documented, but if you are faced with the loss of a loved one it can feel as though no one has ever felt the pain that you are feeling. Everyone employs different coping mechanisms for dealing with grief, and while the sadness will typically diminish in time, it may never completely fade. As one of the Mesa funeral homes who work with a large number of local clients, the team at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery will tell you that no one’s journey is the same and that there is no “normal” formula for grief.

Moving On With Life

At first, it may feel as though you will be stuck in the cycle of grief forever. But taking that first step towards moving on can provide you with a powerful catalyst and help you find a renewed sense of meaning in your life. At Mountain View Funeral Home, we offer you ways to help understand what you’re going through and know that it’s okay to accept your feelings and continue taking care of yourself and your family.

Reaching Out to Others for Grief Support

Many people find that one of the more effective ways of dealing with your personal grief from the loss of a loved one is to support others as they pass through the various stages of understanding. When you share stories of your lost loved one, you are spreading the joy that they brought to life and to your family and friends.

Mesa Arizona Adult Grief Support Group

This coming Tuesday, June 14, Mountain View Funeral Home is offering an Adult Grief Support Group gathering at 6:00pm. The presenter will be Diane Cunningham who will speak on “Finding Comfort Through Your Grief”. RSVPs are accepted, but not required. To RSVP, please call us at (480) 832-2850.

Nurturing your grief takes time. Allowing and accepting your feelings is a big part of healing. With time, things will get better. But, allow yourself the time. What Mesa funeral homes like Mountain View can help you with is to offer support, encouragement, and understanding when you have experienced a loss. Contact our caring and compassionate team today to make arrangements or to answer any questions that you may have about the funeral process.

Phoenix Funeral Homes | Songs for Mom & Dad

Wed, 08 Jun 2016 14:32:00 GMT

Parents have such a special place in our hearts., When we lose a parent, it can feel as though the foundation of our existence has been shaken. How could you possibly choose a few simple songs for the funeral of your Mother or Father that could represent all the love, longing, and hope that they presented you with throughout your life? As one of the most well-known Phoenix funeral homes, we want you to know that we understand how important it is to honor your parent with just the right touches, including songs that are meaningful.

Tributes to Mothers

Some of the most beautiful songs in the world are devoted to the tender love between mother and child. How better to commemorate that love than with a beautiful tribute song that will communicate just a little of that depth of feeling to everyone who hears it? While certainly not an exhaustive list, here are a few heartwarming options that you may want to consider for your Mom.

The Hand That Rocks the Cradle – Glen Campbell and Steve Wariner
Coat of Many Colors – Dolly Parton
Goodbye’s (The Saddest Word) – Celine Dion
Halo – Beyonce
Wind Beneath My Wings – Bette Middler
Mama Tried – Ricky Skaggs and Merle Haggard
The Baby – Blake Shelton

Tributes to Fathers

Father figures are the hands that hold us, the feet that we dance on as children, and the ones who make us laugh and are always there to keep us strong. Celebrating the life of a father is a tribute to the strong, silent hero that we’ve always looked up to–no matter what. Our Phoenix Funeral homes team would like to share some favorite musical choices that may help you say just the right thing to your Dad:

If Tomorrow Never Comes – Garth Brooks
Tears in Heaven – Eric Clapton
Daddy’s Hands – Holly Dunn
If You Get There Before I Do – Collin Raye
Hero – Mariah Carey
You Raise Me Up – Josh Groban
Father’s Eyes – Amy Grant

And then there are some songs that seem to have been made for funerals. They are so stunning that they defy words. One of those songs for our Phoenix funeral homes staff is “Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley and another is “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”. The sad but beautiful undertones remind us that our loved ones have passed beyond the pale and into a new life.

If you have questions about choosing songs for a memorial service or anything else, contact us today at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery. We are here to help you find perfect way to honor your loved one.

Muslim Funeral | Traditions

Wed, 11 May 2016 15:29:00 GMT

In America, it is relatively easy to forget that there is an entire world full of people who often do things quite differently. Funeral traditions, which may seem relatively homogeneous within the U.S., vary greatly throughout the rest of the world. Understanding some of these different traditions can help aid compassion and allow us to support others as they express their grief in various ways. For instance, Muslim funeral traditions are rich and steeped in heritage, although they may feel different than “traditional” American rites.

Muslim Funerals

There are several rituals that occur even before death occurs, including the gathering of family members and the closest of friends to the bedside of the ailing to support and pray for them as they pass through the mortal coil. According to the laws of shariah (Islamic law), the body should be buried as quickly as possible–meaning preparations begin immediately. While organ donation is allowed, this is one of the few ways that Muslims allow the body to be changed after death, as both autopsies and embalming are considered a desecration of the body unless required by law. Cremation is not allowed for Muslims, and with the need to quickly bury the body , visitations or wakes are rare.

Preparation

While there are some controversial traditions around the placement of the body as facing towards Mecca and the need to place a copy of the Quran under the head of the deceased, these may be more personal preferences of the family than a true requirement of the Muslim faith. Before interment occurs, the family follows precise Islamic rites about washing the body, including the need for same-sex relatives (with the notable exception of husbands and wives) to methodically clean the body from top to bottom, left to right. The process is repeated seven times, and then the body is wrapped in a shroud in preparation for interment .

Mourning Period

While Muslim scholars agree that mourning and quiet weeping for the deceased are acceptable, loud crying and wailing most certainly are not. A relatively short mourning period of three days is enforced for all except a woman mourning her husband, who is permitted to mourn for four months and ten days–a time during which her social activities and personal adornment with jewelry and makeup are severely restricted. After this period, however, widows are permitted to return to an active lifestyle and even remarry.

Muslim traditions are steeped in faith and family, and provide a way for all people to offer love and support to the grieving family, as well as prayers to lift the loved one to Allah. If you have questions about ensuring you are following all of the correct protocols for your faith, ask our knowledgeable funeral directors during your funeral arrangement conference or at any time during the process.

Reasons for Embalming

Mon, 09 May 2016 20:09:00 GMT

While an uncomfortable topic for many, there are any number of misconceptions about embalming that can influence individuals to feel a certain way about the practice. Embalming is not required by law, and generally is not an essential practice, although there are times when it is highly recommended. Why does the practice of embalming our loved ones carry so much concern?

Definition of Embalming

Embalming is the act of replacing bodily fluids with a preservative solution, such as formaldehyde, and disinfecting the body in preparation for viewing or a burial. This process can also include other preparations for visitation such as setting the features of the deceased in a fashion that is appealing visually and may offer a more life-like appearance that can help families during an emotional time.

Embalming Around the World

While embalming is used for the majority of the deceased in the U.S. and in Canada, the practice is not widely accepted on the global front. Specifically, Hindus, Buddhists and those of the Orthodox Jewish faith forbid embalming as they feel it is a desecration of the body. While there are no states that require embalming if the body stays within the state lines, crossing over state lines is a different story. Many states require that a body undergo embalming before it can cross state lines or when there is going to be a delay before the body can be interred or cremated .

Alternatives to Embalming

There is some concern that embalming is a dangerous chemical process–so much so that OSHA requires mortuary staff to wear full protective gear and a respirator before they are able to perform the procedure. Alternatives such as refrigeration of the remains may provide an adequate method of preservation depending on the heat and humidity of the climate. It’s true that embalming does not preserve the body forever; instead, this practice merely prolongs the period of time before the inevitable decomposition occurs.

Determining whether or not to have your loved one embalmed is ultimately a personal decision. However, understanding the reasons behind the practice as well as some of the alternatives can help you make an informed decision. If you have additional questions about embalming, contact our caring and confidential staff at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery.

Funeral Home Gifts

Wed, 04 May 2016 15:00:00 GMT

Personal Remembrances

Perhaps one of the most thoughtful gift of solace would be a memory of the individual who was lost–either in the form of a lovely framed portrait, a professional video compilation of their stories or other simple memento that will aid remembrance. This could take the form of a poem or saying embroidered on a quilt or pillow or even an uplifting thought in a small frame that can be kept near to hand.

Jewelry

While elaborate gifts of jewelry may not be appropriate at this time, simple charms or other thoughtful items such as fingerprint jewelry or keepsake jewelry can be shared as a way to promote healthy healing. If your loved one has a commemorative bracelet, adding a small charm that reminds you of the one who was lost will make your grieving friend smile every time they wear the bracelet. The same is true of a clean and simple necklace or ring. If you personally design jewelry, creating a one-of-a-kind creation for your grieving friend or family member is a funeral home gift that will be remembered forever.

Ceramics

Specifically for women, ceramics in the shape of an angel, mother or family can have special meaning that will last for many years. Finding just the right ceramic figure can be challenging, but there are plenty of places online that provide options that will speak to the love that your friends and family members shared with their loved one.

Grave Markers

While it may seem a bit more intimate, depending on the relationship with the grieving individual you may consider gifting them with a plate, decoration or other item for the grave of their loved one, to help remember their personality and warmth on each visit to their final resting place.

There are many different options for providing funeral home gifts during this time. What is important during a time of grief is the gift of your presence, and the knowledge that your friend or family members feels fully loved and supported during an emotional time.

Burial Vault | Famous Burial Places

Mon, 02 May 2016 15:00:00 GMT

From children to adults, we have what many may term an unholy fascination with the dead and their final resting places. From Agra , India, where creating a memorial is an art form to ancient Egypt when a burial crypt could be worth millions and take years to finish, people are constantly curious about the ways that we celebrate and commemorate the passing of individuals. Here are a few of the most famous burial vault sites in the world.

Westminster Abbey

Perhaps one of the most famous and well-visited resting places in the world, Westminster Abbey is the stunning gothic church in London and was established around the tenth century. Used for both the coronation and resting place of monarchs, the abbey marks the location of the remains of Charles Dickens, Rudyard Kipling, Charles Darwin and any number of monks, aristocrats and kings.

Egyptian Resting Places

While you have almost certainly heard of the pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx dating back to 2560 BC, are you familiar with the Valley of the Kings? The pyramids at Giza is composed of blocks weighing up to 1.5 tons each with granite blocks in the roof of the burial chamber weighing in at a whopping 80 tons. The world is still not sure how this amazing feat of engineering was completed using tools of the time, and with a margin of error of less than 3 inches across the nearly 800-foot wide base.

The Valley of the Kings is the final resting place of King Tut, dripping with gold and valuable items stored within his tomb as well as a treasure trove of historical drawings and hieroglyphics on the walls.

China’s Terracotta Army

Ancient Chinese legend dictates that when the First Emporer Qin Shi Huangdi passed into the afterlife, he would need an army at his disposal to help ensure his continued rule. Apparently, his followers were quite convinced, as they hand-crafted around 8,000 life-sized terracotta soldiers and placed them in his burial vault–each with unique facial features and stance–to shepherd the Emperor on his quest for continued rule of the lands.

The Taj Mahal

The Agra , India burial site was created in 1631 by Emporer Shah Jahan upon the death of his beloved wife during childbirth. This architectural wonder is replete with precious stones, gilding, and is strikingly symmetrical in design. Marble reigns throughout the building, and the elaborate tombs are still a wonder to behold.

While it’s unlikely that anyone is going to build another massive structure such as these historical treasures, there are still ways that you can commemorate loved ones with a burial vaul t that is customized for their personality and preferences.

What to Expect at a Funeral Ceremony

Fri, 22 Apr 2016 23:06:00 GMT

Attending a funeral ceremony can be an emotionally challenging experience. If you’re attending your first funeral ceremony, you may be wondering what to expect. While understandably sad, funerals are not innately frightening and can be an affirming celebration of life and a healthy part of the grieving process. To put you at ease, here are some things you might encounter during a funeral ceremony:

Viewing: Before the Memorial Service

You may be invited to the mortuary before the formal funeral ceremony for the viewing; a time when you are able to mingle with friends and family and also view the body of the deceased should you be so inclined. The important thing to note is that you are not required to view the body. If you are truly uncomfortable doing so at your first funeral ceremony, then you should certainly give that part a pass. Coming to the viewing still gives you the opportunity to share memories and love with those in your community.

During the Funeral Ceremony

While there are some differences for region, religion and cultural backgrounds, most funeral ceremonies include a eulogy given by a faith leader, friend or family member. This is a time to reflect on and honor the life of the departed. The funeral ceremony may also include prayers, song, and shared worship.

Interment: After the Service

Once the funeral service is complete, the family generally leaves the pews first, followed by the guests. If the deceased is being interred, or buried in the ground, then the next step is a processional of vehicles towards the cemetery. The etiquette is that you will put your car lights on as you enter the procession out of respect for the deceased. It also helps to indicate that you are part of the procession and other motorists, with the aid of a law enforcement officer, will give way so the procession can pass. Once you are graveside, there may be another short service that could include singing, music, or prayers. Oftentimes, family members and friends add flowers to the casket before it is lowered into the ground.

Attending a funeral allows you to pay respects, honor the deceased, and offer support to those left behind. Having a fuller understanding of what occurs during a funeral will help you know what to expect. If you have questions about funerals or pre-planning your own service, contact our friendly and caring professionals at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery.

How a Funeral Consultant Can Assist You

Mon, 18 Apr 2016 23:50:00 GMT

Detailed Support When You Need It

You can trust our funeral consultants to ensure that your loved one is looked after in every possible way after their passing, and that they are receiving the gracious care that they deserve. We have simplified our funeral choices to allow you the variety of options that you need in order to provide a unique and memorable service while not feeling overwhelming for decision makers. Your funeral consultant at Mountain View can assist you in making tasteful choices to memorialize your loved one that are within your budget.

Cremation or Burial

Determining how the remains of your dearly departed will be handled is an intensely personal decision. We understand that interment is one that should not be taken lightly. While some individuals have left specific instructions in this regard, your funeral consultant can help answer any questions or clear up confusion about these two choices as well as listen to you about any concerns your may have.

Our professional staff at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery can help you honor your loved one in timeless and appropriate ways, while also offering you the support that you need. We hope that if you are in the Mesa, AZ area that you will consider meeting with our knowledgeable and caring funeral consultants .

Military Funeral | Taps

Fri, 08 Apr 2016 15:26:00 GMT

The solemn sound of a solitary bugler is often heard at a military funeral. But have you ever questioned where the melancholy tune originated? The music of mourning, as Taps has been called, started out as a humble bugle call during the Civil War called ‘Extinguish Lights’.

It Started with Napoleon

Around 1809, a French bugle call became a personal favorite of Napoleon. This particular call is one that would be sounded at the end of the day for soldiers to put out the lights and go to sleep. However, Union Army Bridadier General Daniel Butterfield felt that the call was a little too formal to be sending his troops off to bed, so he eventually revised the call.

Only 24 Notes

While General Butterfield didn’t technically compose the simple 24 notes that make up ‘Taps’, he did commission the changes that led to this historic music. His 22-year old brigade bugler by the name of Oliver Wilcox Norton worked with General Butterfield to make the changes; morphing the melody into that which we hear at a military funeral even today.

The Meaning of Taps

To military buglers, the piece has extraordinary significance when played. The bugler has the responsibility of representing the entire country in saying farewell to someone who has served – possibly someone who has given their life for their country. This can be a difficult and emotional task for those who do the duty, as not only are there personal emotions to deal with but also the ongoing challenges of the weather – extreme cold, extreme heat, snow, rain – all of these factors can alter their performance.

Most Well-Known Lyrics

While the original lyrics were not very inspiring, the currently-accepted lyrics can bring peace and acceptance to families during a difficult time. While not truly “official” lyrics, these are incredibly fitting for a military funeral.

Day is done, gone the sun.

From the lake, from the hills, from the sky . . .

All is well, safely rest. God is nigh.

As a tune, ‘Taps’ transitioned from “lights out” to “eternal rest” during the Civil War, when a captain named John Tidball did not want to give away their position to the enemy by firing volleys over the grave of a fallen soldier, so instead he asked the company bugler to play ‘Taps’. This was around 1862, and the tune has been representative of a military funeral since that time.

If you have additional questions about how to appropriately stage a military funeral, check with your funeral director at Mountain View Funeral Home . The friendly and caring staff is well-versed on military funerals as well as the different needs for traditional funerals.

Funeral Visitation and Viewings

Mon, 04 Apr 2016 15:48:00 GMT

When you have recently lost a loved one, it is understandable that you may not be able to think clearly about things. It is a difficult time. Under such circumstances, it may be confusing to completely comprehend some funeral-related terms. For example, while funeral visitation times and funeral viewings are similar, they are not the same. The key difference is that the visitation does not necessarily require that the body be present, while a viewing includes the body of the deceased.

Funeral Visitations

While all beliefs and backgrounds are different, funeral visitations often take place at the family home. They can be up to three days before interment or disposition of the body. Some families are very open and happy to have people come visit and celebrate the life of their loved one – often by bringing a casserole or other food dish to share – while others are more comfortable gaining quiet support from friends and family in a more non-verbal way. There is no right or wrong answer to how to grieve. Instead, take your cues from the family and be sure you are not lingering overlong and putting strain on those grieving.

Funeral Viewings

Viewings can be a slightly more formal affair, and are often held at the funeral home. At Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery, our compassionate and caring staff is ready and willing to help guide you through the process of arranging a respectful viewing, memorial service and even interment or cremation – depending on your unique needs.

Finding Closure

Both the funeral visitation and the viewing are ways that friends and family can get closure. They can also help the healing process when a loved one has passed. While multi-day viewings used to be commonplace, in today’s busy society, they now typically last only a day or two at the most. In the case of an unexpected passing, the additional time can allow friends and family to say their goodbyes without rushing and feeling as though they did not have the time that they needed for this critical step of grief through to acceptance.

While a funeral visitation and viewing are certainly solemn occasions, they can be a way to reconnect with family through remembrances of your loved one as well as a way to pay respects to one that you held dear. Let Mountain View Funeral Home be a trusted source of information to help you during this most challenging of times.

Traditional Funeral | Amazing Grace

Wed, 16 Mar 2016 15:37:00 GMT

When preparing for a loved one’s traditional funeral, or even pre-planning your own ceremony , one of the tasks is to determine which songs or hymns to include as a way to weave the personality of the deceased into the service and create a memorable final service. “Amazing Grace” may be one of the most moving and beloved spiritual hymns of our time, and one that is heard at many funerals, but do you know the history behind the song?

Powerful Beginning

It may be surprising, but an outspoken atheist and slave trader named John Newton penned the soaring melody and lyrics around 1772 after he found his faith while riding out a horrific storm at sea as he was running slaves from Africa to Charleston, South Carolina. Over the course of his lifetime, he was intensely prolific, writing more than 280 hymns in his life after he was ordained as an Anglican priest. His turnaround in faith inspired generations of people around the world to turn their eyes and heart in a different direction.

“Amazing Grace” Through the Years

Newton was not the only figure to use the concept of “Amazing Grace” as a vocal testament to his faith and strength. Leaders throughout history chose this hymn to share loss, love, and respect in times of great human need. The narrative of personal redemption that runs throughout the song tugs at the heart and soul, and fulfills a deep need for peace both in the individuals hearing it, and those who perform. President Jimmy Carter helped to make the song more mainstream by performing it with everyone from Senate Majority Leader Robert Byrd to Willie Nelson. Today, “Amazing Grace” is heard at many a traditional funeral alongside other hymns of comfort.

Music for the Ages

Working with our caring, compassionate and helpful staff at Mountain View Funeral Home means that you will have access to decades of knowledge about a traditional funeral and practices and you will always have someone ready and willing to answer your questions. Creating a memorial service that will be remembered by friends and family for years to come can feel like a heavy burden, especially if you are still grieving yourself. Our staff can help you release the burden and assist you in crafting exactly the type of service that you want for your loved ones or for yourself.

Funeral Service for Law Enforcement

Fri, 11 Mar 2016 15:11:00 GMT

When planning a funeral service for a member of law enforcement, it may be helpful to form a temporary committee with whom the deceased worked with regularly. This committee can help decide who should speak at the funeral/burial, and be part of the ceremony in other ways. This committee is also essential in organizing parking at the funeral/church/gravesite, along with catering and outdoor bathroom facilities that are often needed for a full public military ceremony.

There are different designated categories that honor law enforcement professional by rank for a funeral service. These include:

Category 1 – This is a full, military ceremonial honors reserved for sworn officials (and reserve officers) who were killed in the line of duty. It is done in accordance with the family’s faith. It includes a graveside ceremony that incorporates dignitaries and attendees. It is a public event that takes the most time to coordinate and execute.

Category 2 – Death of a law enforcement professional in any other manner.

Category 3 – Death of a civilian employee.

Category 4 – Death of a retired or separated law enforcement employee.

Category 5 – Death of a family member of a law enforcement professional.

Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery will ensure for any ceremony that the wishes of the family are met. For a full honors ceremony, we verify that the master of ceremonies has full drill and relevant experience. We give special attention to the flag folding, coffin and all particulars of a full honors funeral service so that it is executed without error.

Lastly, our compassionate, caring staff goes above and beyond for each law enforcement category funeral service to ensure that your loved one’s life is honored with the utmost respect. Contact us with any questions you may have at 480-832-2850.

Funeral | Accidental Death & Grief

Mon, 07 Mar 2016 15:40:00 GMT

A funeral is taking place for a close friend or relative. Their pasing was unexpected. It’s understandable that you want to be there for their family. However, among these good intentions, it is important to be aware that your grief and theirs will be quite different from the times you’ve lamented over someone with a long-term illness or loved one who died of old age.

Before the funeral, this would be the best way to treat grieving survivors:

Don’t seek details about the death. Let the survivors share on their own time. Be there for them and willing to listen.
Help to make sure the deceased’s personal effects are returned to the family after the autopsy.
Refer to the deceased by their name.
Encourage the family to plan a wake, funeral and burial, if it’s appropriate.
Send flowers with a note or offer a donation to a relevant charity.
Offer to make arrangements or do tasks, without being ashamed that you are also affected by the loss. Set limits comfortable for you.

Throughout the funeral ceremony you may notice that feelings are more tense and intense. This is naturally so because no one had time to mentally prepare. In the previously mentioned cases (old age, ongoing disease or illness), people had time mentally and emotionally to brace themselves. A few things that may help during the funeral services are:

Include siblings/close relatives. Allow them to ask questions and express their frustrations. Assure them repeatedly that they shouldn’t blame themselves for the death.
Don’t feel guilt for taking actions that made loved ones to cry – or for showing emotion yourself.

Our caring staff at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery knows how difficult this type of death can be for loved ones. We are here to help you with any details during this overwhelming time and relieve you of as much stress as possible.

Should you have any questions about our services or facilities, do not hesitate to contact us at our 24-hour answering service – 480-832-2850.

Facts You Should Know About Choosing Cremation

Fri, 04 Mar 2016 14:30:00 GMT

The word cremation may bring up a variety of feelings: mystery, uncertainty and, possibly, discomfort. So, why choose cremation? Many of these doubts are simply due to the lack of understanding of the process and how it is performed. At Mountain View Funeral Home, we want to be sure that everyone understands the various reasons for cremation and why it is growing in popularity not only in the United States, but around the world. Here are a few facts about cremation that you may not be familiar with:

1. Cremation is taboo in many religions.

While there are a few religions that do not support cremation, they are far from the majority. There has been a large resurgence in cremation in the past decade, as baby boomers are opting for this practice. While some religions still prefer a church ceremony to a secular service for cremated remains, younger Americans are more likely to identify as spiritual instead of overtly religious – making cremation a more attractive option.

2. The cremation rate has grown greatly in the past ten years.

As recently as 1999, only 1 in 4 families chose to cremate the remains of a loved one. By 2017, nearly half of families will make the decision to have the remains of their loved ones cremated instead of a more traditional in-ground burial.

3. Cremation is cost-effective.

While there are additional costs associated with an in-ground burial , for such things as embalming and viewing, cremation costs are fairly straightforward. Of course, families can choose a traditional viewing and mortuary service prior to cremation, so costs can vary based upon choices that are made.

4. Ashes can travel with you.

In past years, burial plots would be purchased years in advance so you could guarantee that families will be laid to rest together. However, families today are often more mobile so it can be challenging to go see relatives who have already passed. Instead, one reason why to choose cremation is to keep loved ones close no matter where in the country (or the world) you travel.

5. Greater flexibility for the family.

Once your loved one’s remains have been cremated, you have the option of scattering the ashes somewhere that was particularly special such as a nature locale or in the ocean. Ashes can also be buried in a traditional ceremony or they can be stored in urns in the home. You can also opt for a combination of scattering or urn storage for disposition. This flexibility appeals to many families.

Regardless of your choice, our caring and understanding staff at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery is available to answer questions and offer assistance every step of the way.

Cost of Cremation & Traditional Burial

Fri, 26 Feb 2016 15:04:00 GMT

Although no one wants to think about planning for final disposition, budgeting for a funeral or memorial can give you peace of mind that your family will not be burdened with expenses and decisions they are not ready to handle. Whether you are considering the cost of cremation or a traditional burial , there are several items you will need to consider. Working with a caring, family owned business like Mountain View Funeral Home will help you prepare in advance for your final outcome.

When you consider the cost of cremation you should think about the expense of transporting the body to the funeral home where the procedure will be completed. You will also need an original death certificate and you will need to pay to have the body prepared for cremation. If the body has a pacemaker, it will most likely need to be removed before cremation. If you are planning a ceremony that includes the body present prior to cremation, you will need to rent a casket, provide flowers, and pay for a reception if you plan to host guests after the service. Finally, once the body is cremated, you will need to purchase an urn to contain the ashes or make plans to spread the ashes depending on the wishes of the departed.

If you are planning a traditional burial, many of the expenses will be the same. In addition, you will need to purchase a casket, pay for embalming, and purchase a grave site and gravestone. You will still need to pay for clergy or someone to perform the service and someone to prepare and dig the grave. When deciding whether you would like a traditional burial or a cremation service, you need to take into account expense and personal feelings of those you love.

The cost of cremation is usually less than a traditional burial, but expense should not be the only determining factor. Pre-planning and preparing for your passing is one of the most compassionate things you can do for your family and friends. Making your final wishes known and making decisions for your funeral can easily be discussed in a confidential conference with our caring staff members at Mountain View Funeral Home. Let us help you make plans today.

Crematorium | Arizona Laws

Wed, 24 Feb 2016 15:14:00 GMT

Planning for the cremation of a loved one can be difficult and confusing. In additional to dealing with the loss, you need to make sure you follow Arizona laws and guidelines when dealing with cremation. The easiest way to make sure your wishes are followed, and the cremation of your loved one goes as planned, is to find a reputable funeral home. Mountain View Funeral Home in Mesa is one of the best choices and offers a crematorium on site. Although not all funeral homes can cremate bodies in their facility, Mountain View offers this service and allows you the comfort in knowing that your loved one’s body is always being cared for by our professional staff.

The state of Arizona has an above average cremation rate with more than 50% of residents choosing cremation over traditional burial. When you are making plans for a funeral, you will want to ask about the crematorium and how the body will be handled. You will also need to decide if you want a service with an open casket before the cremation or if you will hold a memorial service once the cremation is completed. Cremation is usually considered a less expensive option than a traditional burial. Arizona state law requires the funeral home to provide you will a list of general prices before you sign a contract. At Mountain View Funeral Home, we offer a variety of affordable options and will work with you to make the best decision for your loved one.

In Arizona, a crematory must abide by the practices of the state when disposing of human remains in a crematorium. First a “Cremation Authorization Form” needs to be signed by the next of kin and a coroner must issue a permit. The body then enters a 24-hour mandatory waiting period in which time most people are making preparations. Although a casket is not required, many families choose a casket instead of the basic cardboard or plywood box. Once you receive the ashes, you can place them in an urn or you may choose to scatter them in a particular location. You can do this on your own private property, or if you want to scatter ashes in the Grand Canyon , for example, you will need a letter and free permit from the National Park. Following the Arizona guidelines for cremation will help ensure your loved one’s remains will be taken care of properly.

For more information, please contact us at Mountain View Funeral Home.

Pet Cemetery & Remembrances

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 02:03:00 GMT

Anyone who has ever lost a pet knows how hard it is. When pets join our families, they become an integral part of our daily lives. When they pass on, it is very similar to losing a family member or best friend. Once the shock of losing them begins to wane, we want to think of a way to honor and memorialize them and the important place they held in our hearts. A memorial service in a pet cemetery can help relieve the pain and feeling of loss. While our facilities at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery are not equipped to handle pet cremation nor interment, we understand how difficult it is to lose a pet. Here is some information that you may find helpful:

Pet Cemetery

You may choose to have a home memorial service followed by burial in a pet cemetery. In a pet cemetery, you can be assured that the property and gravesite will be well-maintained. The stone marking the pet’s burial site can be engraved with the name and dates. When in a pet cemetery, there will always be a place to visit when you want to feel close to your pet. The grave can also be marked with favorite toys.

Cremation

Many people choose to cremate their pets so that the remains can be stored in an urn in a prominent place in the house. Along with a special urn, you can have a beautiful plaque engraved with the pet’s name, dates and other information. With an urn and a plaque as a backdrop, you can set a time for everyone who knew your pet to get together for a memorial service. The remains can stay in an urn in your home, be scattered in its favorite spots or divided among family members.

Pet Photos, Portraits, and Pawprints

Making an album of photos of your pet from the time it was a puppy through its life is a comforting way to memorialize it. You can put photographs in an album with your pet’s name and picture on the cover. You can also give a photo to a portrait artist and commission a beautiful painting of your pet. And, finally, many veterinary clinics offer to make a final pawprint cast in clay. This is one more way that you can remember your pet.

Although we are not a pet cemetery, we do understand the grief that comes when losing a beloved animal. The care and comfort that you need then is the same as we provide when you lose a human loved one. Contact us at Mountain View Funeral Home, we can guide you toward the best path forward.

The Difference Between a Funeral Home and Mortuary

Thu, 22 Jan 2015 01:10:00 GMT

When making plans for a loved one, the needs of each family is different. When deciding whether to use a mortuary or funeral home, there are a few items to consider. First, one of the biggest differences between a funeral home and mortuary is on-site cremation. If you and your loved one have chosen cremation, something to understand is that a mortuary typically offers on-site cremation and may be the best choice. Funeral homes will give you the same option, but will likely ship the deceased to another facility for the cremation. However, Mountain View Funeral Home offers on-site cremation and your loved one will never leave our facility.

Another item to think about is the level of support and family care that you may need throughout this difficult process. At a funeral home, the funeral director is not only trained in the business aspect of this industry, but also in grief counseling. The burial preparation services are similar in both the mortuary and funeral home, but funeral homes will typically provide more emotional support throughout the process. In a mortuary, the mortuary director is educated in mortuary sciences and will typically perform the burial preparation, as more emphasis is put on the preparation of the deceased, rather than the emotional aspect.

A third difference between a mortuary and funeral home is how many visitors are typically allowed. Funeral homes have larger areas where services can be held and public viewings also take place. A mortuary, however, usually does not have these facilities and viewings are closed and are attended only by the family members.

Lastly, but not least, states have different requirements in handling the deceased person. Some states require that a funeral director be involved in the handling of the deceased, therefore, even if you choose to use a mortuary, a funeral home may need to be involved in some capacity. At Mountain View, we are a full-service funeral home with on-site cremation, so we can take care of making all of your arrangements for you. There is no need to go anywhere else to take care of your funeral arrangement needs.

Contact Mountain View Funeral Home and let us help you navigate through this process and make the best decisions for you and your family.

Dove Release Symbolism

Sat, 01 Nov 2014 03:55:00 GMT

A dove release at a funeral or memorial has become a beautiful tradition to commemorate the life of a departed loved one. Not only does a dove release bring a feeling of peace and comfort, but it also carries with it significant meaning.

The symbolism of doves has relevance in many cultures and religious beliefs. It dates back as early as the Ancient Egyptians who thought of the dove as a symbol of quiet innocence. The Ancient Chinese looked at the dove as a symbol of peace and long life. In the Greek and Roman cultures, doves represented love, devotion, and care for one’s family.

Doves are also depicted multiple times throughout the Bible. Two of the most notable references are the stories of Noah and the Great Flood in Genesis 8:11 and the Baptism of Jesus in Matthew 3:16. Throughout Scripture, the dove represents love, loyalty, fidelity, and honesty, as well as the Holy Spirit.

Many have associated doves with a maternal image, as well. Doves are known for being quite nurturing. For this reason, the dove is also associated with several mother figures. Commonly seen in Christian art with the Virgin Mary, the dove is known as a symbol of care, devotion, purity, and peace. The dove is also a companion of Ishtar, the Great Mother of Assyrian culture, signifying the promise of hope and salvation.

In more modern times, the image of the dove has become an international symbol of peace. In 1949, Picasso’s lithograph, la Colombe (the Dove) , was chosen as the emblem for the World Peace Congress in Paris. Today, doves are widely seen as symbols for many organizations advocating for peace.

At a remembrance ceremony, a dove release helps to begin the grieving process. The letting go of the doves signifies the “letting go” of the loved one. A dove release is also inspirational for those attending a funeral or memorial as it beautifully and peacefully honors the memory of the deceased.

Whatever your beliefs, a dove release can be a perfect addition to a remembrance ceremony. At Mountain View Funeral Home, we can help you to include a dove release into a funeral or memorial service. It is a wonderful way to provide comfort and peace, as well as honor the memory of your loved one.