Glossary of Funeral Terms

When a person dies, the survivors may be eligible for Social Security benefits and/or Veterans Benefits.

A death certificate is required by law after a person dies. Two parties must complete the death certificate – a medical professional (either a physician, coroner, or medical examiner) who will certify the death by noting the cause of death, time of death and the identity of the deceased; and a licensed funeral director, who will confirm that the body was properly handled.

A simple burial with no viewing or visitation, which usually involves only the transportation, care, of burial of the remains.

A simple cremation with no ceremony, viewing or visitation.

This term refers to the placement of cremated or whole remains in their final resting place.