Frequently Asked Questions
We have heard thousands of questions, and chosen to provide you with the answers to some of the more common questions relating to a funeral, a funeral service and funeral homes.
- Why do we need an obituary notice?
It is helpful to friends and the community to have an obituary notice published announcing the death and type of service to be held. A notice can be placed in a local newspaper, or on the Internet.
- What do funeral directors do?
Funeral directors are both caregivers and administrators. In their administrative duties, they make the arrangements for transportation of the body, complete all necessary paperwork, and implement the choices made by the family regarding the funeral and final disposition of the body. As caregivers, funeral directors are listeners, advisors and supporters. They have experience assisting the bereaved in coping with death. Funeral directors are trained to answer questions about grief, recognize when a person is having difficulty coping, and recommend sources of professional help. Funeral directors also link survivors with support groups at the funeral home or in the community.
- What should I do if the death occurs in the middle of the night or on the weekend?
We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All you need to do is place a call to us at (410) 777-5295. If you request immediate assistance, one of our professionals will be there within the hour. If the family wishes to spend a short time with the deceased to say good bye, it's acceptable. Then they will come when your time is right.
- What should I do if a death occurs while away from home?
Your funeral director can assist you if a death occurs anywhere on the globe. Contact your hometown funeral director of choice immediately. They will assume responsibility and coordinate the arrangements for the return of the deceased person to their community. They may engage the services of a funeral director in the place of death who will act as their agent.
- How can I be sure the cremated remains I receive are my loved one?
At Simplicity Cremation & Funeral Services, we prioritize transparency and care in every step of the cremation process. As the owner and operator of our own crematory, we follow strict protocols to ensure the highest standards of accountability. From the moment your loved one is in our care, a metal disk with a unique identification number accompanies them through every stage, including the cremation itself, ensuring the remains you receive are your loved one’s with absolute certainty.
- Are there restrictions on scattering cremated remains?
It depends on the location. Scattering on your private property is unrestricted. However, if you wish to scatter on someone else’s private property, you must obtain their permission, preferably in writing. For public spaces, such as parks, you’ll need to check with the local government or the managing agency to understand their specific policies. If you'd like a copy of Maryland's scattering regulations, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
- How long does the cremation process take?
The cremation process typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, though the exact duration can vary depending on specific circumstances.
