Ask Barb - Flanner and Buchanan Funeral Centers

Every day I get a chance to review dozens of obituaries.  It seems that a lot of people have forgotten these newspaper entries are possibly the last tangible evidence of a person’s life.  In many cases it’s a simple list of survivors.  We rarely talk about what is lost and not recorded for the future.  We rarely acknowledge the historic relevance of these simple printed  lines.  If an obituary is authentic, it will carry a legacy forward for generations.

So here is some guidance.  Don’t be trite, throw away the rules and write from the heart. Be specific and let family and friends review and edit before it’s submitted. You are creating the final record of this special person in your life, what did they really care about?  You’d be amazed how many poeple read the obituary entries on a regular basis.  Think a head and considering jotting down thoughts for you own obituary.  Have the last word  and make it worth every  bit of the investment.

Some burial experiences and products date back centuries.  Recently burial shrouds, one of those products, has made its’ way back into our mainstream burial  offerings.

Shrouding by definition refers to wrapping the body in a long piece of cloth.  Burial shrouds are generally constructed without buttons, zippers, or fasteners.  Some religions have specific traditions regarding shrouding which include ceremonial cleansing, anointing  the body with fragrant oils and prayers. Select types of fabrics may be required such as linen, or silk.

Shrouding reminds me of the gentle wrapping a mother does with her new born child following their bath.  She snugly wraps the towel or blanket around the body to keep the child warm and safe.  She gently places the little one safely in a crib to allow for a peaceful slumber.

Shrouds are optional for eco-friendly burials, cremation services, and can be placed within a conventional casket.  It’s just another option you may want to consider.  Have you ever experience a service using a shroud?  I’d love to hear your experience.

I’m often asked how someone should select and urn or casket.  My best advise is to begin with the end in mind.

If you are making a cremation urn selection consider where the urn will be placed after the memorial service.  There are specifically designed urns for mausoleum niches, for below ground burial, and for cremation types of scattering.  There are designs that are created to sit artfully on your hearth or bedside table.  Most of us buy what we are comfortable with by color and design.

 Caskets selection is similar.  Some caskets are designed for above ground placement.  Cremation requires biodegradable considerations like wood, cloth, or fiberboard as well as casket alternatives like shrouds.  Know you can coordinate with your life style too.  Most providers offer a reasonably wide selection or can locate something special upon request.

If there are family members who want to know-the details of the caskets construction our team can details the material specks out for you.  As for me, can it do the job I need it do, and look good while doing it, I’m happy.