FAQs about Burial or Entombment

J. T. Morriss & Son has compiled a list of frequently asked questions to educate you about burial and entombment, and to provide information so you can make an informed decision if burial or entombment is selected.

What needs to be done after a death takes place?
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What takes place during the funeral arrangement conference?
The funeral arrangement conference usually takes place at the funeral home, at a time decided upon between the funeral director and the family. Because it is necessary to cover a large amount of information, this conference usually lasts 1 ½ to 2 hours. During this time, the funeral director will gather vital information about the deceased that will be necessary in the completion of various forms, such as, the death certificate, Social Security Administration notification of death, and application for Veterans Administration benefits for any veteran of military service. This and other information is used to compose an obituary notice for publication in the newspaper. The funeral director will disclose to you very important information explaining the services that are available through the funeral home, also merchandise, such as, caskets, burial vaults, etc., and the cost associated with these items. This information is not only informative, but very useful in planning a funeral service and selecting the proper casket and burial vault. All of our funeral homes have merchandise display areas where you will be informed by your funeral director on the different options that are available. At the conclusion of the arrangement conference, your funeral director will present you with a statement of funeral goods and services selected, which will outline the specific services and merchandise selected, and the total cost. When services have been pre-arranged, the arrangement conference is typically very brief, consisting only of scheduling the services and a review of the obituary information.

What is embalming?
The process of chemically treating a dead human body to prevent decomposition. Using the body's own vascular system (arteries, veins, and capillaries), embalming fluid flows to all parts of the body, penetrating into and preserving muscle, skin, and organs. Embalming began in America during the Civil War for health reasons, but is commonly used today, to sanitize and preserve the body, to allow an opportunity for family members and friends to view the remains prior to burial or entombment.

Is embalming required by law?
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 it. Certain cemeteries may require embalming for mausoleum entombment. Check with your cemetery for their regulations.

Is it necessary to use a burial vault or outer burial container?
In most areas of the country, state or local law does not require that you buy a container to surround the casket in the grave. However, many cemeteries require that you have such a container so that the grave will not sink in. The weight of the earth can create enough pressure to collapse a casket not protected by a burial vault or outer burial container. In addition, the use of a burial vault will prevent the casket from being exposed to water and other elements present in the grave.

What is the difference between a burial vault and a grave liner?
Burial vaults are commonly made of concrete or metal and are designed to support the weight of the earth surrounding it, and to protect the casket from water and other elements present in the grave. Most burial vault manufacturers offer a warranty to the consumer explaining the protective value of their products. A grave liner is designed to support the weight of the earth, to prevent the grave from sinking, but does not offer further protection against water and other elements. Most cemeteries require the minimum of a grave liner. Our funeral homes offer a wide selection of burial vaults and a grave liner to meet any budget.

What is the difference between Interment and Entombment?
Interment refers to the act of burying the casket in the ground. The casket is placed inside a burial vault or grave liner prior to the grave being filled in. The family may then mark the grave with a headstone or monument identifying the deceased.

Entombment refers to the act of placing the casket in a mausoleum crypt. The front of the crypt is often adorned with granite or marble and has a memorial plaque attached, identifying the deceased. When entombment is selected, a burial vault or grave liner is not used. Whether interment or entombment is selected, our staff is present to supervise the process until completion. 

Does Social Security help pay for funeral expenses?
The qualifications for Social Security benefits depend on age, marital status, number of dependents, and whether the deceased contributed to Social Security. It is important to remember that Social Security benefits are not automatic; survivors must apply for benefits through the Social Security Administration. However, our funeral home will file the needed forms for you, or will assist you in determining what benefits are available to you and how to receive them.