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Frequently Asked Questions

At Red Mountain Funeral Home, we understand that during difficult times, seeking clarity and guidance is essential. Our heartfelt commitment is to provide you with a comforting space where your most pressing questions are addressed with empathy and understanding. We aim to offer compassionate support through our Frequently Asked Questions, offering solace and reassurance as you navigate through life's challenges. Trust that you are not alone in your journey, and our dedicated team is here to assist you every step of the way.

Questions About the Cremation Process

  • What is cremation?

    To begin with, it is probably easier to describe what cremation isn't. Cremation is not a final disposition of the remains, nor is it a type of funeral service. Rather, it is a process of reducing the human body to bone fragments using high heat and flame. 

  • How long does the actual cremation take?

    It depends on the weight of the individual. For an average size adult, cremation takes from two to three hours at normal operating temperature between 1,500 ºF to 2,000 ºF. 


  • What happens after the cremation is complete?

    All organic bone fragments, which are very brittle, as well as non-consumed metal items, are "swept" into the back of the cremation chamber and into a stainless steel cooling pan. All non-consumed items, like metal from clothing, hip joints, and bridge work, are separated from the cremated remains. This separation is accomplished through visual inspection as well as using a strong magnet for smaller and minute metallic objects. Items such as dental gold and silver are non-recoverable and are commingled in with the cremated remains. The remaining bone fragments are then processed in a machine to a consistent size and placed into a temporary or permanent urn, selected by the family. 

  • What do the cremated remains look like?

    Cremated remains resemble coarse sand and are whitish to light gray in color. The remains of an average size adult usually weigh between four to eight pounds of cremated remains. 

  • In what kind of container are the cremated remains returned?

    We return remains in a temporary container but we offer a variety of affordable urns. The family may choose to provide their own container in which the cremated remains will be placed.  

  • Are all the cremated remains returned?

    With the exception of minute and microscopic particles, which are impossible to remove from the cremation chamber and processing machine, all of the cremated remains are given back to the family. 

  • What does a Funeral Director do?

    Pick up the deceased and transport the body to the funeral home (anytime day or night)

    Notify proper authorities, family and/or relatives

    Arrange and prepare death certificates

    Provide certified copies of death certificates for insurance and benefit processing

    Work with the insurance agent, Social Security or Veterans Administration to ensure that necessary paperwork is filed for receipt of benefits

    Prepare and submit obituary to the newspapers of your choice

    Bathe and embalm the deceased body, if necessary

    Prepare the body for viewing including dressing and cosmetizing

    Assist the family with funeral arrangements and purchase of casket, urn, burial vault and cemetery plot

    Schedule the opening and closing of the grave with cemetery personnel, if a burial is to be performed

    Coordinate with clergy if a funeral or memorial service is to be held

    Arrange a police escort and transportation to the funeral and/or cemetery for the family

    Order funeral sprays and other flower arrangements as the family wishesProvide Aftercare, or grief assistance, to the bereaved

Concerns About Cremation

  • Are there any laws governing cremation?

    Cremation regulations vary from state-to-state. 


  • Can two cremations be performed at once?

    Never. Not only is it illegal to do so, but most modern cremation chambers also are not of sufficient size to accommodate more than one adult. Thus it would be a practical impossibility to conduct multiple cremations simultaneously. 

  • Can the family witness the cremation?

    No. We are not offering these services at this time.  

  • How can I be sure I receive the correct remains?

    We have developed the most rigorous set of operating policies and procedures in order to maximize our level of quality and minimize the potential for human error. Positive identification of the deceased is assured throughout each stage of the cremation process. We only allow certified professionals to operate our cremation equipment. 


  • Can we scatter the cremated remains?

    If you wish to have your ashes scattered somewhere, it is important to discuss your wishes to be scattered ahead of time with the person or persons who will actually have to do the cremation ashes scattering ceremony, as they might want to let your funeral professional assist in the scattering ceremony. Funeral directors can also be very helpful in creating a meaningful and personal ash scattering ceremony that they will customize to fit your families specific desires. The services can be as formal or informal as you like. Scattering services can also be public or private. Again, it is advisable to check for local regulations regarding scattering in a public place-your funeral director can help you with this.



  • What can be done with the cremated remains?

    With cremation, your options are numerous. The cremains can be interred in a cemetery plot, i.e., earth burial, retained by a family member, usually in an urn, scattered on private property, or at a place that was significant to the deceased. (It would always be advisable to check for local regulations regarding scattering in a public place-your funeral director can help you with this.)


    Today, there are many different types of memorial options from which to choose. Memorialization is a time-honored tradition that has been practiced for centuries. A memorial serves as a tribute to a life lived and provides a focal point for remembrance, as well as a record for future generations. The type of memorial you choose is a personal decision.

Questions About Urns, Caskets, & Embalming

  • Do I need an urn?

    An urn is not required by law. However, an urn may be desired if there is to be a memorial service or the cremated remains are to be interred in a cemetery. If an urn is not selected, the cremated remains will be placed in a plastic bag and then placed in a temporary plastic box or container provided by the family. 


  • Is a casket needed for cremation?

    No, a casket is not required for cremation. 

  • What is the purpose of embalming?

    Embalming sanitizes and preserves the body. Embalming makes it possible to lengthen the time between death and the final disposition, allowing family members time to arrange and participate in the type of service most comforting to them.

  • Does a dead body have to be embalmed, according to law?

    The Federal Trade Commission says, "Except in certain special cases, embalming is not required by law. Embalming may be necessary, however, if you select certain funeral arrangements, such as a funeral with viewing. If you do not want embalming, you usually have the right to choose an arrangement that does not require you to pay for it, such as direct cremation or immediate burial."

  • Can the body be viewed without embalming?

    Yes, you may select immediate family members to briefly view the deceased prior to cremation at our cremation facility at an additional cost. The deceased is first washed, dressed, and prepared for a private viewing. However, under certain circumstances additional alternative care may be required for autopsy remains organ/tissue or bone donors.


  • If I am cremated, can I be buried with my spouse even if he or she was in a casket?

    Yes — Depending upon the cemetery's policy, you may be able to save a grave space by having the cremains buried on top of the casketed remains of your spouse, or utilize the space provided next to him/her. Many cemeteries allow for multiple cremated remains to be interred in a single grave space.

  • What is memorialization for a cremation?

    You might choose ground burial of the urn. If so, you may usually choose either a bronze memorial or monument. Cremation niches in columbariums are also available at many cemeteries. They offer the beauty of a mausoleum setting with the benefits of above ground placement of remains. Many cemeteries also offer scattering gardens. This area of a cemetery offers the peacefulness of a serene garden where family and friends can come and reflect.

  • Do I have to make different funeral arrangements if I chose cremation?

    It really depends entirely on how you wish to commemorate a life. One of the advantages of cremation is that it provides you with increased flexibility when you make your funeral and cemetery arrangements. You might, for example, choose to have a funeral service before the cremation; a memorial service at the time of cremation or after the cremation with the urn present; or a committal service at the final disposition of cremated remains. Funeral or memorial services can be held in a place of worship, a funeral home or in a crematory chapel.

  • Why have a public viewing?

    Viewing is a part of many cultural and ethnic traditions. Many grief specialists believe that viewing aids the grief process by helping the bereaved recognize the reality of death. Viewing is encouraged for children, as long as the process is explained and the activity is voluntary.

Questions About Burial

  • What is a burial?

    A burial is a process of interring a deceased person's body in the ground or a designated burial site. Remember, specific regulations and practices regarding burials may differ depending on the region, culture, or religion involved. It's always advisable to consult local authorities, funeral directors, or cemetery staff for accurate and detailed information related to burials.

  • Why do people choose burial over other options?

    Burial is often chosen due to religious or cultural beliefs, personal preferences, or family traditions. Some individuals find comfort in the idea of a physical resting place for their loved ones.

  • What are the different types of burials?

    There are various types of burials, including traditional in-ground burials, above-ground burials in mausoleums or crypts, natural burials where the body is buried in a biodegradable container without embalming, and burials at sea.

  • Do I need to embalm the body before the burial?

    Embalming is not always required, but it may be necessary if there is a significant delay between death and burial, or if the body is being transported across state or international borders. Local regulations and cultural practices may influence the need for embalming.

  • How much does a burial cost?

    The cost of a burial can vary depending on factors such as the location, type of burial plot, cemetery fees, cost of the casket or burial container, headstone or grave marker, and any additional services or arrangements. It's best to contact local funeral homes or cemeteries for specific pricing information.

  • How long does the burial process take?

    The burial process can vary depending on factors such as the availability of cemetery plots, the need for permits and paperwork, and any additional arrangements. In general, it can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.

  • Why are funerals so expensive?

    When compared to other major life events like births and weddings, funerals are not expensive. A wedding costs at least three times as much; but because it is a happy event, wedding costs are rarely criticized. A funeral home is a 24-hour, labor-intensive business, with extensive facilities (viewing rooms, chapels, limousines, hearses, etc.), these expenses must be factored into the cost of a funeral.


    Additionally, the cost of a funeral includes not only merchandise, like caskets, but the services of a funeral director in making arrangements; filing appropriate forms; dealing with doctors, ministers, florists, newspapers and others; and seeing to all the necessary details. Funeral directors look upon their profession as a service, but it is also a business. Like any business, funeral homes must make a profit to exist.

  • Should I choose Burial or Cremation?

    Burial in a casket is the most common method of disposing of remains in the United States, although entombment also occurs. Cremation is increasingly selected because it can be less expensive and allows for the memorial service to be held at a more convenient time in the future when relatives and friends can come together.


    A funeral service followed by cremation need not be any different from a funeral service followed by a burial. Usually, cremated remains are placed in urn before being committed to a final resting place. The urn may be buried, placed in an indoor or outdoor mausoleum or columbarium, or interred in a special urn garden that many cemeteries provide for cremated remains. The remains may also be scattered, according to state law.

  • Why have a Funeral?

    Funerals fill an important role for those mourning the loss of a loved one. By providing surviving family and friends with an atmosphere of care and support in which to share thoughts and feelings about death, funerals are the first step in the healing process. It is the traditional way to recognize the finality of death. Funerals are recognized rituals for the living to show their respect for the dead and to help survivors begin the grieving process.


    You can have a full funeral service even for those choosing cremation. Planning a personalized ceremony or service will help begin the healing process. Overcoming the pain is never easy, but a meaningful funeral or tribute will help. 

Questions About Veterans

  • Who is eligible for Military Funeral Honors?

    • Military members on active duty or in the Selected Reserve.
    • Former military members who served on active duty and departed under conditions other than dishonorable.
    • Former military members who completed at least one term of enlistment or period of initial obligated service in the Selected Reserve and departed under conditions other than dishonorable.
    • Former military members discharged from the Selected Reserve due to a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty.

  • Who is not eligible for Military Funeral Honors?

    • Any person separated from the Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions or whose character of service results in a bar to veteran's benefits. 
    • Any person who was ordered to report to an induction station, but was not actually inducted into military service. 
    • Any person discharged from the Selected Reserve prior to completing one term of enlistment or period of initial obligated service for reasons other than a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty.
    • Any person convicted of a Federal or State capital crime sentenced to death or life imprisonment.

  • How do I establish veteran eligibility?

    The preferred method is the DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty.  If the DD Form 214 is not available, any discharge document showing other than dishonorable service can be used.  The DD Form 214 may be obtained by filling out a Standard Form 180 and sending it to:


    National Personnel Records Center(NPRC)

    9700 Page Blvd.

    St. Louis, MO 63132


    The Standard Form 180 may be obtained from the National Records Center or via the following web site: http://www.archives.gov/research/order/standard-form-180.pdf

  • Is anyone else eligible to receive funeral honors?

    Yes. Members of the Commissioned Officer Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), as members of a Uniformed Service, are also eligible to receive funeral honors.


    For NOAA personnel, eligibility is established using NOAA Form 56-16, Report of Transfer or Discharge. If the family does not have a copy of the NOAA Form 56-16, it may by obtained by contacting the Chief, Officer Services Division, NOAA Commissioned Personnel Center at (301) 713-7715. or by writing:


    National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 

    Commissioned Personnel Center 

    Chief, Officer Services Division (CPC1) 

    1315 East-West Highway, Room 12100 

    Silver Spring, Maryland 20910


    For PHS personnel, funeral honors eligibility is established using PHS Form 1867, Statement of Service (equivalent to the DD Form 214).  If the family does not have a copy of the Statement of Service, it may be obtained by contacting the Privacy Coordinator for the Commissioned Corps at (240) 453-6041 or writing:


    Division of Commissioned Personnel/HRS/PSC 

    Attention: Privacy Act Coordinator 

    5600 Fishers Lane 

    4-36 

    Rockville, Maryland 20857



  • Who Is Eligible to Receive the Burial Flag?

    Generally, the flag is given to the next-of-kin, as a keepsake, after its use during the funeral service. When there is no next-of-kin, VA will furnish the flag to a friend making request for it. For those VA national cemeteries with an Avenue of Flags, families of veterans buried in these national cemeteries may donate the burial flags of their loved ones to be flown on patriotic holidays. 

  • How can you apply to receive a Burial Flag?

    You may apply for the flag by completing VA Form 27-2008, Application for United States Flag for Burial Purposes. You may get a flag at any VA regional office or U.S. Post Office. Generally, the funeral director will help you obtain the flag.

  • Can a Burial Flag Be Replaced?

    The law allows us to issue one flag for a veteran's funeral. We cannot replace it if it is lost, destroyed, or stolen. However, some veterans' organizations or other community groups may be able to help you get another flag.

  • How Should the Burial Flag Be Displayed?

    The proper way to display the flag depends upon whether the casket is open or closed. VA Form 27-2008 provides the correct method for displaying and folding the flag. The burial flag is not suitable for outside display because of its size and fabric. It is made of cotton and can easily be damaged by weather.

Questions About Social Security Benefits

  • Are there Social Security benefits available for the family of the deceased?

    Yes, some family members may be eligible for Social Security benefits if the deceased person worked long enough under Social Security to qualify. It is advisable to contact Social Security promptly to ensure that the family receives all entitled benefits.

  • What is the one-time payment of $255, and who is eligible to receive it?

    A one-time payment of $255 can be paid to the surviving spouse if they were living with the deceased. If living apart, the surviving spouse may be eligible if they were receiving certain Social Security benefits on the deceased's record. If there is no surviving spouse, the payment is made to a child who is eligible for benefits on the deceased's record in the month of death.

  • Who is eligible to receive monthly benefits from Social Security?

    Certain family members may be eligible for monthly benefits, including:


    • A widow or widower age 60 or older (age 50 or older if disabled)
    • A surviving spouse of any age caring for the deceased's child under age 16 or disabled
    • Unmarried child of the deceased under age 18 (or age 18 or 19 if a full-time student)
    • Parents, age 62 or older, who were dependent on the deceased for at least half of their support
    • A surviving divorced spouse under certain circumstances

  • Where can I find more information about Social Security's programs?

    The Social Security website is a valuable resource for information about all of Social Security's programs. You can visit their website to learn more about the available benefits and how to apply.

  • How can I contact Social Security for more information?

    You can call Social Security toll-free at 1-800-772-1213. Staff is available to answer specific questions from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Information is also available through automated phone service 24 hours a day. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call the TTY number at 1-800-325-0778.

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