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What Is Needed from Next of Kin for Burial and Cremation in Athens, GA?

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 12:00:53 GMT

Summary

The next of kin typically provides legal authorization for burial or cremation.
Funeral homes often request identification, vital information, and signed authorization forms.
Documentation needs may vary by state and individual circumstances.
Funeral professionals help guide families through each step with care and clarity.

What Is Needed from Next of Kin for Burial and Cremation

Families in Athens, Georgia often ask what is needed from the next of kin when planning burial or cremation . According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), funeral professionals typically rely on the legal next of kin to provide written authorization before arrangements can move forward.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) explains that authorization supports transparency under the Funeral Rule, helping families understand their rights and choices. Next of kin most often includes a spouse, adult child, parent, or legally appointed representative.

Identification and Essential Documentation

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the importance of accurate information when preparing an official death certificate. Because of this, funeral homes often request the following from the next of kin:

A government-issued photo ID for the person authorizing arrangements.
Vital details about the deceased, including legal name, date of birth, parents’ names, and Social Security number.
Signed authorization forms for burial or cremation.
Information required to complete and file the death certificate.

Providing this information helps ensure that arrangements follow legal guidelines while honoring the wishes of the family.

Why Authorization Matters

Authorization confirms that the individual making decisions has the legal right to do so. For burial, families may need to confirm cemetery property or permit information. For cremation, a signed Cremation Authorization Form is typically required, and some situations may involve a brief waiting period or additional review.

Funeral professionals at Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes provide compassionate guidance, helping families in Athens, Georgia feel supported and informed throughout the process.

FAQs

Who is considered the next of kin?

The next of kin is typically a spouse, adult child, parent, or legally appointed representative authorized to make final arrangements.

What documents are needed before cremation?

Most funeral homes require identification for the next of kin, vital information for the death certificate, and a signed cremation authorization form.

Do requirements differ by state?

Yes. Requirements may vary by state or situation, so families should consult their funeral home for guidance specific to their location.

Written for Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes, proudly serving families in Athens, Georgia with compassion and care.

About Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes

Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes supports families throughout Athens, Georgia with respectful funeral and cremation services. The funeral home is located at 4355 Lexington Rd, Athens, GA 30605 , and families may call 706-546-1587 for thoughtful guidance and assistance.

www.lordandstephens.com

Why Do Funeral & Cremation Costs Vary in Athens, Georgia?

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:00:46 GMT

Summary

• Funeral and cremation costs may vary based on location, facilities, staffing, and service options.

• Families in Athens may notice price differences due to amenities, on-site capabilities, and available gathering spaces.

• Personalization, professional care, and the level of support chosen often influence overall cost.

• The FTC’s Funeral Rule requires funeral homes to provide clear, itemized pricing to help families compare providers.

Why Do Funeral and Cremation Costs Vary?

Families in Athens often wonder why funeral and cremation costs differ from one funeral home to another. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), these variations occur nationwide due to differences in operating expenses, staffing needs, and available service options. All national data referenced is accurate as of 2025.

Regional and Overhead Differences

Funeral homes in communities like Athens may face different operating costs than those in more rural or urban parts of Georgia. Staffing, property expenses, utilities, and facility upkeep play an important role in pricing differences. These factors help explain why similar services may cost more or less depending on the funeral home.

Facilities, Service Options, and Personalization

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires funeral homes to provide families with an itemized General Price List (GPL). Pricing may vary based on whether a funeral home offers reception areas, chapels, or on-site cremation services.

Families may choose from multiple service types, including traditional funerals , cremation with a memorial service, or direct cremation. Personalized elements such as music, flowers, stationery, video tributes, and catered gatherings can also influence overall cost.

Professional Care, Expertise, and Documentation

According to the Cremation Association of North America (CANA), funeral and cremation arrangements involve extensive professional care. Preparation, transportation, documentation, and planning support all require expertise and time, contributing to overall expenses.

Reviewing GPLs and asking questions can help families choose the provider best suited to their preferences, needs, and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do funeral homes charge different prices for similar services?

Costs may vary due to differences in staffing, facilities, regional operating expenses, and the level of personalization chosen.

Does the FTC require funeral homes to provide itemized pricing?

Yes. Under the FTC’s Funeral Rule, funeral homes must provide an itemized General Price List (GPL) before families make decisions.

Can preplanning help manage funeral or cremation costs?

Preplanning may help families clarify their wishes, reduce emotional stress, and plan future expenses with greater confidence.

Written for Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes, proudly serving families in Athens with compassion and care.

About Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes

Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes is honored to serve families across Athens and the surrounding Georgia communities with compassion, dignity, and meaningful support. Located at 4355 Lexington Rd, Athens, GA 30605 , they can be reached at 706-546-1587 for guidance, planning assistance, and caring service options.

www.lordandstephens.com

How Much Does Cremation Cost in Athens, GA?

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 13:00:32 GMT

Summary

• According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the national median cost of a funeral with cremation is $6,280 as of 2025.

• Direct cremation, which typically does not include a ceremony, generally ranges from $2,800 to $3,000 nationwide.

• Cremation costs vary based on service type, merchandise selections, and the level of professional care provided.

• Families in Athens often choose cremation for its flexibility, simplicity, and ability to honor diverse cultural or personal preferences.

How Much Does Cremation Cost?

Families in Athens, Georgia, often ask how much cremation costs and how national averages compare to local options. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) 2024 General Price List Study, the national median cost of a funeral with cremation is $6,280, accurate as of 2025.

This amount often reflects professional services, transportation, and the use of facilities for a funeral, memorial, or celebration-of-life gathering.

For families seeking a simpler choice, direct cremation is typically the most affordable option, generally ranging from $2,800 to $3,000 nationwide.

Direct cremation usually includes transportation into the funeral home’s care, required documentation, and the cremation itself, without a ceremony or visitation.

What Factors Influence Cremation Costs?

Cremation prices vary depending on the type of service a family selects. Some choose a traditional funeral or memorial service followed by cremation, while others prefer a more private arrangement.

Merchandise selections—such as urns or small keepsake items—can also affect total expenses. Options are typically offered in a range of simple, meaningful styles so families can choose what feels right for honoring their loved one.

Local considerations in Athens, including staffing needs, facility resources, and Georgia state regulations, may also contribute to pricing variations.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires funeral homes to provide a transparent and itemized General Price List (GPL), helping families evaluate options with clarity and confidence.

Planning ahead can also provide peace of mind by clarifying wishes and reducing stress during an emotional time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cremation typically less expensive than burial?

Cremation is often more affordable because it generally does not require cemetery property, a burial vault, or a casket. However, the final cost depends on the type of service and merchandise chosen.

Can families hold a service with cremation?

Yes. Many families in Athens choose to hold a funeral, memorial, or celebration of life either before or after the cremation.

What is generally included with direct cremation?

Direct cremation typically includes transportation of the loved one into the funeral home’s care, basic professional services, required paperwork, and the cremation itself. It does not include a ceremony or visitation.

Written for Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes, proudly serving families in Athens with compassion and care.

About Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes

Families in Athens, Georgia, can turn to Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes for compassionate, professional guidance. Located at 4355 Lexington Rd, Athens, GA 30605 , their caring team can be reached at 706-546-1587 for support with cremation services, planning, and memorial options.

www.lordandstephens.com

How Much Does a Funeral Cost in Athens, Georgia?

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 13:00:45 GMT

Summary

• Funeral costs often vary based on the type of services chosen, merchandise selections, and local market factors.

• According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the 2024 national median cost of a funeral with burial is $8,300 and $6,280 for a funeral with cremation.

• These national averages, accurate as of 2025, typically do not include cemetery fees or memorialization costs.

• Understanding national medians can help families in Athens make informed decisions that reflect their needs and wishes.

How Much Does a Funeral Cost?

Families in Athens, Georgia, often ask what a funeral may cost and why prices can differ from one arrangement to another. National data offers a helpful starting point. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the 2024 national median cost of a funeral with viewing and burial is around $8,300, while the median cost of a funeral with cremation is approximately $6,280. These figures, accurate as of 2025, are useful benchmarks but do not represent a fixed price for every situation.

Funeral costs may vary depending on the type of service, the level of personalization , and the facilities offered by a funeral home. Some families may choose a traditional service with a visitation and ceremony, while others may prefer a simpler gathering or more modest arrangement. Location and regional economic factors can also play a role in the total cost.

Typical funeral arrangements often include the professional services of the funeral director and staff, use of facilities for a visitation or ceremony, care and preparation of the deceased, and transportation. Merchandise selections—such as a casket, urn, or other memorial items—also contribute to the overall cost. It is important to remember that cemetery-related expenses, such as burial plots and interment fees, are usually billed separately and are not included in NFDA median figures.

Planning ahead may help families feel more prepared and confident in their decisions. By learning about national averages and typical service components, individuals can better understand what to expect and make choices that align with their values and financial preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do funeral costs vary so much?

Funeral costs may vary based on the type of service selected, facility use, merchandise choices, and whether cemetery expenses are included or billed separately.

Are national averages a good guide for planning a funeral?

National averages from the NFDA provide a helpful starting point, but actual costs depend on local conditions and the specific services and merchandise a family chooses.

Can planning ahead help manage funeral expenses?

Planning ahead may help families understand their options, compare services, and make thoughtful decisions that reflect their wishes and budget.

Written for Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes, proudly serving families in Athens with compassion and care.

About Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes

Families in Athens, Georgia, can turn to Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes for caring and professional guidance. Located at 4355 Lexington Rd, Athens, GA 30605 , their dedicated staff can be reached at 706-546-1587 to answer questions about funeral planning and available options.

www.lordandstephens.com

10 Ways to Customize a Funeral

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 20:44:25 GMT

Funerals aren’t one-size-fits-all. One of the most important steps in funeral planning is customization. How is this funeral right for your loved one? How are you celebrating your loved one’s life through everything from the floral arrangements to the clothing they’re wearing? What makes this funeral uniquely your loved one’s funeral? Here are a few ways to customize a funeral for your loved one.

10 Ways to Customize a Loved One’s Funeral

1. Put together a community project.

When you’re thinking about how you can honor your loved one in their funeral, consider that you don’t have to do it alone. A community project to display at the funeral brings people together. Try to think of a project that fits something that your loved one enjoyed in their life. Maybe they were always in the kitchen, baking their favorite recipes. You could ask funeral-goers to contribute recipes that the decedent shared with them throughout their life for a recipe book. Or, if they loved to sew or crochet, you could make a memorial quilt, with everyone contributing their own granny square that they feel symbolizes the decedent.

2. Incorporate beloved items into a display.

Funeral flowers are a lovely way to honor a loved one, but consider taking the arrangements a step further and incorporating items that remind you of your loved one into the displays. If your loved one’s favorite thing to do was to be out on their surfboard, catching waves, build a floral display around the board. Or you could create a separate display outside of the floral arrangements. If your loved one received honors for their service in the military, for instance, you could build a section of the funeral where their metals could sit amongst photos of their time serving.

3. Have something for guests to take home.

The idea of funeral favors isn’t all that common, but it’s a way to have your guests bring something that reminds them of their loved one home. You could put together seed packets from your loved one’s garden if they were known for their green thumb. Or, if they were known for making the best jams and jellies around, use their recipe to make some small containers to give out at the funeral.

4. Make a memorial slideshow.

A memorial slideshow can be shown during the funeral, but it can also be put on loop to be projected throughout a viewing or reception. No matter how you choose to show your slideshow, it’ll be an homage to the life that your loved one lived. Ask family and friends to send you their favorite photos of your loved one, or ask them to put them all in a Google Drive folder to make collecting them a little easier. You could use slideshow services like Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides or a service that’s directly made for memorial slideshows, like Smilebox’s memorial slideshow maker .

5. Choose meaningful clothing.

It used to be more common that a decedent would be dressed in semi-formal clothing, but that tradition has been receding. Now, it’s considered less necessary to have a decedent dress more formally, and it’s more common for them to be dressed in a way that reminds funeral-goers of who they were. When you pick out clothing for your loved one, look for outfits that you have special memories of them in. If your loved one always wore their favorite colorful dress to every occasion, perhaps they should also wear it for their funeral. But even then, you don’t have to pick out clothing that they wore only to formal events. If your loved one loved their blue jeans, there’s no rule that says that they can’t wear them for the funeral.

6. Arrange for military honors, if applicable.

If your loved one was a veteran, you could plan to hold military honors at their funeral with the help of your funeral director. All honorably discharged veterans are entitled to military honors. By law, that includes an honor guard detail consisting of at least two members of the U.S. Armed Forces, one of whom must be from the decedent’s service branch. The ceremony includes the playing of taps and the folding and presentation of the American flag to the decedent’s next of kin.

7. Dine on their favorite foods and recipes.

Food has the power to bring back so many memories. To incorporate food into a funeral, you could plan a reception with all of their favorite meals. Another way to make food a part of the funeral is by baking a few of your loved one’s most beloved recipes and putting them out during the service. Pick recipes that are easy to eat and not too messy, like a cookie.

8. Organize a scattering ceremony at a special location.

A funeral ceremony isn’t the only event that you can plan for your loved one. You could also host a number of additional events, including a scattering ceremony if your loved one is to be cremated. A scattering ceremony is often very personal because you’re deciding where to spread their ashes based on what they loved in life. Although you can’t scatter ashes just anywhere, you can spread them in certain places like at sea or in a national park. Just make sure that you’re following all local, state, and federal restrictions.

9. Print photos for a display or scrapbook.

Sharing photos of your loved one adds to the celebration of your loved one’s life. There are many ways to make pictures a part of the funeral beyond the memorial slideshow. You could print poster boards of your loved one to greet guests at the entrance. Or you could make a collage to add to other displays around the room. Many funeral homes also offer photo printing as a service, so talk to your funeral director about your photo options.

10. Add music.

Music is a powerfully connective force, and if music was especially important to your loved one, find a way to add it to their funeral. You could make a playlist of their favorite songs to play during the viewing or hire a singer to perform one of their favorite songs during the funeral service itself. You could also hire a band or solo artist to perform at a reception.

Customizing a funeral looks different for every family, and you may have some of your own ideas about ways to make your loved one’s funeral personal to them. Whatever your ideas may be, talk to your funeral director about them. Even if you believe they may be challenging to do, funeral homes have plenty of experience turning those unique ideas into beautiful aspects of a loved one’s funeral.

www.lordandstephens.com

The First Thanksgiving Alone

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 20:42:27 GMT

Thanksgiving looks different to all different kinds of families, but it can also look different year after year. As family members grow up and have their own families, Thanksgiving celebrations may shrink. And as time goes on, the passing of family members can make those smaller Thanksgivings even more emotional. There may come a day when your Thanksgiving will be celebrated alone, which can trigger feelings of grief and loss. How can you navigate a Thanksgiving spent alone? There’s no wrong way, as long as you’re taking care of yourself.

What to Do When Spending Your First Thanksgiving Alone

1. Decide if you’d like to celebrate.

There’s no rule that says that you have to celebrate Thanksgiving. Sometimes, the most challenging part about the holidays is the expectation. We often remember images of what we think Thanksgiving is supposed to be like: an overflowing table with many family members seated around it, all smiling and having a wonderful time. We may even remember a time in our childhoods when our Thanksgiving dinner tables looked similar to those idyllic images.

But, more often than not, those images aren’t the reality for most people. You’re not alone if you don’t feel like celebrating when there aren’t others around. It’s okay not to want to put in the work to cook a large meal if you’re only the one eating it. There’s nothing wrong with deciding to skip the usual Thanksgiving traditions. On the other hand, if the traditions give you comfort, you may enjoy simply spending the holiday cooking. Only you can decide if you want to celebrate Thanksgiving when you’re alone.

2. Contact others who may also be alone for the holiday.

If you do decide to celebrate, remember that you may not be the only one celebrating alone. Perhaps a friend has recently been widowed, and their children live far away. Or maybe a recently divorced friend is spending the holiday alone because their children are with their ex-partner. Think about the people you know, and don’t be afraid to reach out and see what they’re up to.

Suggest a digital alternative if friends or family can’t gather in person. You could ask everyone to grab their favorite Thanksgiving foods and call into an online meeting platform, like Zoom. Even if you only chat for an hour out of the day, you may still enjoy having a little interaction with people you love during what otherwise may be a bit of a lonely day.

3. Volunteer.

Consider celebrating the holiday with people who may also be having a difficult day. Thanksgiving is one of the biggest volunteer days of the year, and the people who volunteer have the honor of helping those less fortunate have their own special holidays. When we volunteer, we’re helping others and helping ourselves. Volunteering our time releases dopamine , making us feel good about the good we’re doing. Seeing that what you’re doing is putting a smile on others’ faces will put a smile on yours.

Call around to your local food banks, soup kitchens, or places of worship and see who is in need of some help this holiday. When you’re spending a holiday alone, you may find it helpful to take your mind off the situation. Volunteering not only takes your mind off of the day but also puts the focus on someone else, making you feel good about your selfless act.

4. Treat yourself with something that you enjoy doing.

There are other ways to take your mind off the day besides volunteering, however. And especially if you’ve had a difficult time lately, it’s important that you’re taking care of yourself. One way to treat yourself to some essential self-care is by finding a way to put a smile on your own face. If you don’t want to think about the holiday, think about something that will occupy your body and mind in another way. What’s something you don’t often get to do that you really enjoy? Maybe you’ll spend the whole day curled up by the fire with a beloved pet and a good book. Or perhaps you’d rather spend your time in a fishing boat with the sun shining over the water, illuminating your day’s catches.

Be kind to yourself and let yourself indulge a little. Make a list of things you’d like to do that you don’t do every day, from activities to other treats, like your favorite chocolates. You deserve something that makes you feel good, so enjoy it all without a second thought.

5. Consider making preparations for the day with a professional.

Spending a holiday alone can be challenging, especially if you’re spending it alone because of the passing of a loved one. Sometimes, it’s best to be prepared for any emotions you face during that day. Talking to a mental health professional before the day arrives can help you combat your feelings as they arise. Before Thanksgiving comes around, schedule a meeting with a mental health professional and work with them to create a game plan for the holiday. You may feel better knowing that you’re facing the day with professional advice to help you navigate how you’re feeling.

Spending your first Thanksgiving alone can bring about a wealth of emotions. Especially if you’re spending it alone because of a loved one’s passing, you may feel more grief than you expect. But remember that there’s no wrong way to observe Thanksgiving alone, even if it means not celebrating at all. No matter what you choose to do, remember to be patient with yourself because ignoring or repressing your emotions may end up causing more harm in the long run. You’re allowed to grieve, even during a holiday.

www.lordandstephens.com

Why Preplanning is a Good Thing for Parents

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 20:40:47 GMT

No one likes to imagine a time when they’re not around to help their children anymore. A parent’s job is never done, regardless of how old their children are. But there may be a time when a parent is no longer there physically for their children. However, there’s one final gift that any parent can give to their child. Preplanning your funeral as a parent can save your child from added pain and stress during an already challenging time.

Why Should Parents Preplan?

If you have several children, you’ll spare them from future spats.

When a parent passes away, it usually falls to the children to plan their funeral and disposition. But what happens when there are several children making decisions? Unfortunately, if they don’t know their parent’s wishes, those children will often butt heads because they all have different ideas that they want to follow. Everyone only gets one funeral and one disposition, so it’s crucial that they properly honor the loved one who passed. But each child may have a different image of what honoring their parent looks like.

By preplanning your funeral, your children will know what your wishes are. There won’t be any competing ideas that can result in arguments. There will be one set of instructions to follow — yours. During a time of great grief, emotions can run high, which can make even the smallest of arguments quickly compound. With your preplanning instructions, they can grieve together in peace instead of fighting while they should be spending time comforting and supporting one another.

If you have one child, you’ll spare them from becoming overwhelmed.

If you do have multiple children, you can take comfort in knowing that they’ll be going through the funeral planning process together. And while that can lead to fights, it can also lead to them feeling less alone during a lonely time, especially if you preplan to make arguments less likely. However, if you only have one child, they’ll be the only one making the decisions around your funeral. They may feel like they have no one to talk to, causing them to wonder if they’re making the right choices with no one else supplying their thoughts. The funeral planning process can feel overwhelming. There are many decisions to be made, from what types of services to have to where your final resting place should be. Losing a parent can trigger feelings of loneliness and isolation, in addition to powerful grief. But if your child has to plan every detail of your funeral and disposition while they’re already emotionally taxed, they may neglect taking care of themselves in favor of taking care of the funeral.

It’s hard to be an only child who lost their parent. There are no siblings there to comfort one another. Your child may find themselves feeling more alone than they’ve ever felt. By preplanning your funeral, you take the stress of worrying about the funeral off of them. You’re giving them a gift, saying that they can take care of themselves during this difficult time, rather than thinking about every detail of the funeral.

You’ll know that you’ve done your best to guide your children through the funeral process.

Parents never stop teaching. Whether your child is three or 43, you want to be a source of knowledge and guidance for them. Parents wish that they had all the answers in the world for their children, but one answer that they can give is what they want at their funeral and as a final resting place. Still, because talking about funerals and disposition can be uncomfortable, many parents neglect to have this essential conversation with their children.

When you preplan a funeral, you’re going one step further than simply talking about what you want. You’re giving your children a blueprint. Your children will know that they are hosting the funeral that you wanted, giving them peace of mind. They can mourn without any concerns about whether or not they’ve done right by your wishes. They’ll have your wishes written out for their guidance.

You can opt to prefund, saving your children from future financial woes.

Although you can preplan without prefunding your funeral, choosing prefund can spare your children from worrying about whether or not they can afford the funeral you deserve. Many believe that life insurance will cover the cost of a funeral and disposition, but the funds that your family receives through life insurance are often used to cover other end-of-life care, like medical expenses. At the time of a funeral, services must be paid in full. Without prefunding, your children may end up struggling to cover the costs.

When you preplan your funeral, talk to your funeral director about your option for prefunding. They can walk you through the different plans that can help you cover your funeral and disposition in full, preventing your children from having to worry about if their finances line up with the funeral you’ve planned. There are many different options for paying toward your funeral, so working with a funeral director can ensure that you’re using a plan that works best for you and your family.

The best way to preplan, whether you intend to prefund or not, is by working with a funeral home. Planning with a funeral home takes more of the guesswork out of arranging your funeral. Your children will know exactly where your plans can be found, and they’ll be able to work with a funeral director who understands your wishes. Preplanning your funeral with a funeral home is a free process that anyone can do. It’s the best way to ensure that your final wishes are honored.

Preplanning your funeral as a parent is giving a final gift to your children. Losing a parent is something that many people will experience in life, but the loss is always difficult. You can make this challenging time easier for your children by allowing them to grieve in peace without the worry of funeral planning.

www.lordandstephens.com

Memorial Service – Does My Casket or Urn Need to Be Present?

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 20:38:55 GMT

A memorial service differs from a traditional funeral service in that it takes place after final disposition. Final disposition is either the cremation or burial of the deceased. So, the answer is no—neither the urn nor the casket need to be present at a memorial service. That said, in the case of a memorial service following cremation the urn may be present if that is the family’s desire.

Because a memorial service takes place after either burial or cremation have occurred, the urgency to put together a speedy service is removed. A memorial may take place days, weeks, or ever years after a death. This allows a family that is spread over a great distance with time to arrange for travel, time off work, return from overseas postings, or whatever would likely make it impossible for all to gather on short notice.

A memorial service also works well when a family prefers to be more creative in their farewell. The additional time supports the family’s efforts to arrange for music or food. It provides more time to gather photos, find appropriate readings, and find the perfect venue for the service.

A memorial service may be held just about anywhere. Many funeral homes have space designated for these services that includes audio visual equipment and, in some cases, catering and food service capabilities. Be sure to ask your funeral director for guidance and advice.

A memorial service may be faith based if the individual’s religion permits. Some religions require that disposition take place immediately after death, making memorial service the standard. Other denominations require the body be present for the religious part of the service, making a traditional funeral service a better fit. Again, your funeral director is well-versed in the religious traditions in your community and is an invaluable resource for putting together a service that supports your family’s faith base.

There are a few considerations that are best not overlooked when planning a memorial service. The amount of time between death and the memorial service can become protracted and that can create a burden for some family members. Be aware that many people have an acute need to gather with friends and family, talk about the person who died with others who loved them, cry in a safe place, and receive a much-needed hug. The memorial provides that opportunity and until it takes place, their pain is fresh; most people find a service helps put them on firm footing as they begin their grief journey. It is a good idea to check in with close family members and establish a timeline for the memorial service that takes everyone’s needs into consideration.

The second consideration is the “creativity” piece. When we have a traditional funeral service or a religious based funeral service there is a fairly clear roadmap. When that doesn’t fit for you, or your family, and you are not a creative group you need to speak up and ask your funeral director for help. Not every family has people who are comfortable with public speaking to deliver a eulogy or put together music or a photo slide show. Your funeral director is a resource, so feel free to ask for his or her help.

www.lordandstephens.com

Five Tips to Help with the Year of Firsts

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 20:36:35 GMT

The first year following the death of someone dear—a parent, a child, a sibling, a spouse, or a good friend—is frequently referred to as “the year of firsts.” It will be the first time the holidays, birthdays, and the occasions both sad and happy that were shared and witnessed with the person who has passed will come and go alone, without the loved one. For most people it is a tough year. Still there are things that can be done to make experiencing these milestones easier.

1. Avoid being blindsided

Keep an eye on your calendar. Know what is coming. Be aware of the approaching anniversary, birthday, holiday or time of year when you always took a vacation with the person who has died is approaching. Do not let the day sneak up on you and catch you off guard.

2. Know that ignoring the occasion won’t help

When a sensitive occasion is noted on the horizon it may be tempting to think about just ignoring it and letting the day pass. That seldom works out well. Most find the loss of sharing the day with one’s special person cannot be ignored. Trying to do so may mean spending the day alone with a great big elephant in the room.

These are things everyone who has experienced a loss must go through. There is no going around. Grief is often likened to a journey. The first year is full of milestones encountered along the path to living life without the person who was loved. The end of the journey is not forgetting that person, it is finding a way to live life without the loved one in it.

3. Make a plan

Decide how you will mark the occasion. For some a trip to the cemetery will feel right. It might be a good idea to ask a friend or someone who shares your loss to come along. For others it may mean coming up with an alternative plan for spending a holiday. If the day was always celebrated with family at mom’s house and it is mom who has died, the family may all need to be included in how the day will be best celebrated.

4. Acknowledge your loss

Just as ignoring the day is not a good strategy, neither is ignoring the fact someone is missing from the celebration. Perhaps it will be appropriate to acknowledge your loss privately by making a visit to the cemetery or church to say a prayer or have a “chat” with your loved one. In some instances, you may find yourself spending the day with others who share your loss. In that case it may be lovely to include a mention, toast, or other remembrance of the one who died.

5. Include others

If you can, avoid spending the day alone. Do something with someone you love. It doesn’t have to be the same thing you always did with the person who is gone. While it may be enjoyable to carry on a tradition for some, for others the tradition may feel hallow when done with a “replacement person.” What you do should be something you enjoy. The idea is to own your loss, making an effort to celebrate the occasion in a way that is pleasant.

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Funeral Service and Veterans Benefits

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 20:34:39 GMT

The Funeral Home is the best resource for understanding veterans death benefits.

The Federal Government provides a death benefit for honorable discharged veterans. The dollar amount varies based on where the death occurs (VA hospital) and if the death was service-related. In most cases the benefit is modest and will not cover the entire cost of a funeral, burial, or cremation. Your local funeral home is an excellent resource to help veterans and their families understand the benefit that is available.

www.va.gov

VA will pay up to $796 toward burial and funeral expenses for deaths on or after October 1, 2019 (if hospitalized by VA at time of death), or $300 toward burial and funeral expenses (if not hospitalized by VA at time of death), and a $796 plot-interment allowance (if not buried in a national cemetery).

Most funeral homes will provide a consultation and planning session at no charge upon request. It is never too soon to schedule a meeting with a funeral planner. Understanding exactly the benefit that will be available upon death is the best way for veterans to assure their family is not misinformed and thereby disappointed in the benefit they receive when death does occur.

The funeral planner will review the current benefits available from the U.S. Government. These benefits have been subject to change over the years, making obtaining current up-to-date information important. The planner will discuss your funeral service desires and your family’s funeral expectations and needs. The planner will also discuss the military graveside service and US flag that can be provided, if you desire, upon death. During your planning session you will also review final disposition options. Final disposition is a term referring to a person’s personal preference to be buried or cremated and the location of your final resting place.

During a meeting with a funeral planner the veteran will have the opportunity to ask questions about burial availability in a local Veteran’s cemetery, funeral service and memorial service options as well as review funeral products such as caskets and vaults that honor the different branches of military service.

It is a good idea bring a copy of discharge papers (DD214) to the meeting. Making a list of your questions and bringing it to the meeting as well will help to assure your questions are answered and nothing is overlooked.

It is also a good idea to ask the planner about any programs the funeral home has to help fill in the cost difference between the US Government Benefit amount and the estimated cost of the funeral service. Many funeral homes provide the opportunity to set up manageable payment plans to cover the gap. Some funeral homes even offer plans that provide coverage for the entire cost should death occur before all payments are complete.

Once a funeral plan is completed it should be kept on file at the funeral home along with a copy of the DD214.

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How to Get the Funeral You Want

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 20:32:50 GMT

Don’t be afraid to ask the funeral director your question or to speak up and say what you want.

Some events only happen once in a lifetime. Graduations, weddings, and funerals are a few of these one-time occasions. That means the way the event is marked makes a lasting impression. If the cake at the wedding was supposed to be chocolate and it was not it does not ruin the marriage or even the day, but it can mar the occasion and it is usually the thing that is remembered. It was not right and it is never forgotten.

When a funeral is not “right”, when a minister mispronounces the deceased’s name, or the dress mom always told you she wanted to wear is not the one your brother chose, the hurt can go deep and last a long time. Getting the funeral right for your family is very important.

When you meet with the funeral director do not be afraid to speak up. Funeral directors are kind, caring people, but they are not mind readers. Tell your director what you want. Tell her what you do not want. Ask questions. Tell him about your mother, father, or spouse. Ask how to bring out what you loved about the person you lost. Treat the funeral director like you would a wedding planner. Share where family members are having a problem agreeing and ask for guidance.

Rules are made to be broken. If the number of pictures, songs, or readings recommended by the director doesn’t seem to match what you had in mind, speak up. No one at the funeral home wants your family to struggle to get the number of photos for the video down to twenty when what you really want is forty. If what you really want is for your deceased daughter to wear her cheerleading outfit for her visitation and something else for the church service speak up. Just because the body is usually dressed only once doesn’t mean it must be that way. Funeral directors know how important every detail is to the families they serve. They just don’t know what is important to you if you don’t tell them.

www.lordandstephens.com

What is a Green Funeral?

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 20:30:58 GMT

The term “green funeral” refers to ceremony, service, and body disposition that focuses on preservation of the earth. Many of those who live “green” also wish to end “green”. Just as living green is carried out in different ways and with many choices, there are also many different methods of having a green funeral. Your funeral director is your best guide to the green funeral options available in your geographic area.

For one person living green may mean passing on the offer of a plastic straw. For others, green may mean living off the grid and bicycling to work. One can be all in, or just a little green. Funerals can also be greenish or very green.

Sometimes a green living choice comes with a cost savings and sometimes going green costs more. For example, you’ll use less fuel with a hybrid automobile. Using less gas will generate a cost savings. However, you will usually pay more for a hybrid car than for the same make and model that is not hybrid. Green is not about saving dollars—it is a lifestyle. A belief system motivated by a sense of responsibility for our home, the planet earth. It is a choice.

If you are motivated to pursue a green goodbye, you will be pleased to know that your choice will not require that you give up any of the healing aspects of a funeral service. Service, gathering, and viewing the body can all be included in a green funeral.

Funeral directors have access to environmentally friendly embalming chemicals. If your family prefers to have the body present for the funeral service that can be accomplished. Should a private family viewing be more in line with your green funeral plans, the body can be simply prepared without embalming to make that experience possible for family members.

Green cemeteries or green areas in traditional cemeteries usually do not require a burial vault or grave liner. The body is shrouded and placed directly in the earth or placed in a biodegradable container which is buried. Those who opt for a green burial do so because disruption to the earth is minimized. No harsh chemicals from embalming, no treated wood or metal casket and no metals or concrete from a grave liner are introduced in the grave space. If you remember our hybrid car example something similar occurs with green burials. In most cemeteries a green burial space will cost more than a traditional burial space, but you will not incur the cost of the vault.

For those who prefer cremation you will need to know that all cremators (the device where cremation takes place) are not created equal. Newer models tend to have a smaller carbon footprint. Ask your funeral director which providers in your area are the most environmentally friendly.

There are also many different green options when it comes to the final resting place for cremated remains. Cremated remains can be incorporated into objects that become family heirlooms, or, they can become part of an underwater reef. There is a nearly unlimited number of earth-friendly alternatives of what to do with cremated remains. When making funeral arrangements tell your funeral director that green is important to you and ask for help in finding service providers that support your values.

www.lordandstephens.com

Should We Have an Open Casket?

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 20:29:10 GMT

“I was very surprised at my reaction. Seeing John in his casket wasn’t something I was looking forward to. His daughter (from his first marriage) really wanted an open casket. So, I agreed. Mostly just to remain on good terms with my stepdaughter. He looked so peaceful. He had a Mona Lisa smile. I am so glad I didn’t stick to what he and I had talked about. The opportunity for that last good good-bye ended up meaning the world to me… and his daughter.”

Many long-standing funeral practices, like viewing the deceased, are undervalued today. Perhaps we should think again? Maybe go slowly? Allow for individual family members to say goodbye in a way that is most meaningful to them.

There is a value to “seeing” the deceased. If you doubt that value think about what happens when there is a sudden, unexpected death. Body recovery is high on everyone’s list. Seeing is believing. Some family members may find an opportunity to see the deceased helpful. Some, like the woman who wrote the opening quote, may be surprised at the comfort the opportunity to see the person they love at peace brings.

The funeral director is there to guide you. Ask questions. How can we give my grandson an opportunity to see his grandfather? What if some family do not wish to see dad? Mom didn’t want an open casket but some of us would like an opportunity to see her one last time. What can we do?

Funeral directors are always willing and able to allow for individual family differences. A daughter who prefers not to view the body and grandson who would very much appreciate an opportunity for a face to face farewell. One need not exclude the other. Funeral directors have solutions. When you meet with yours, be open. Share your family’s needs and ask questions.

www.lordandstephens.com

Celebrity Funerals and Ceremonies

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 20:27:08 GMT

On February 24 ^th , 2020, twenty thousand mourners filled downtown Los Angeles' Staples Center — “the house that Kobe built” — to celebrate the lives of the 41-year-old Lakers star and his 13-year-old daughter, who were killed alongside seven others in the crash in Calabasas. With tears streaming down his face, Michael Jorden spoke about his “big brother” mentoring relationship with Kobe. Beyoncè sang KO, one of Kobe’s favorites, and his wife Vanessa bravely spoke about her daughter, her husband, and her loss.

Kobe’s life is not the first to be celebrated in a large public way. Princess Diana, Michael Jackson, and John McCain all had funeral services that were shared with large groups of their fans or followers. These very large and very public funerals acknowledge the family’s loss is our loss too. They help the community heal.

We may not have ever had a face to face conversation or sat down to break bread with any of these people, but we loved them. Kobe was a master of his game and it was pure joy to watch him play. He went well beyond just playing basketball and shared his love of the game and impact it had on his life with a whole new generation in his books and his movie. He was larger than life.

His wife and family’s kindness in sharing their celebration of his life, and that of his daughter, with his fans is beautiful. It will help all of us heal. We can only hope knowing this, we were there witnessing tributes to a man who was admired, respected, and loved by so many. Hopefully the healing began then.

www.lordandstephens.com

Why Not Call the Funeral Director?

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 20:24:54 GMT

A husband and father of four dies suddenly. He languishes in the morgue at the coroner’s office for weeks because no one knows what to do and no one is empowered to act. The only thing the kids and grandchildren can agree on is that their father did not want to spend a lot of money on a funeral.

It is just downright crazy the things folks will do to work around the funeral home when a family member dies. Let’s get real about the widespread and totally unreasonable fear of working with a funeral director. The origin of the fear is the belief that funerals cost too much. Let’s take a look at the reality.

Funeral directors are educated professionals. Like doctors and lawyers, they meet rigorous state requirements in order to be licensed to practice. Funeral directors do expect to be paid for the work they do. However, unlike doctors and lawyers, funeral directors do not typically charge for a consultation. Which means a family can talk with a director about options and cost before they make a commitment to actually have the funeral home provide services.

A person should not expect this is something one should do on the fly over the phone. That is just unreasonable. You would not expect to call Macy’s and ask how much a pair of shoes will cost. Everyone knows it is not that simple. You are going to need to provide more information about the kind of shoe you need to get an accurate cost. In the same way there are literally hundreds of possible combinations of funeral services and products. The cost depends on what your family wants and needs.

So instead, call the funeral home and ask for an appointment with a funeral director to learn about options for service and cost. When you sit down with the director you will be presented with a general price list. This list will detail all the services and costs. What could be more up front than that? What other professional group will provide you with that kind of information?

Be prepared to share both your budget and what is important to your family. Please, do not let unreasonable fear keep you from getting the professional help your family needs when someone they love has died.

www.lordandstephens.com

AFTER THE FUNERAL…WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 15:49:26 GMT

AFTER THE FUNERAL…WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO

Sometimes the future feels bleak. For those struggling with a recent death in their family or just beaten down by the news, it can be difficult to look forward, to anticipate, to feel hopeful.

Most of us are removed from the rituals of spring. The tilling of the earth, getting our hands in the compost, planting seeds, all simple pursuits that are, by their nature, full of hope. Even if you are living in a community that takes care of your landscape, or a group living arrangement or even in a big city high rise it is really not that hard to grow something. Something that you can nurture, and watch grow - a little something to look forward to.

Grow Something to Eat!

· A basil plant from the grocery store just needs a sunny window and water. A little bit of your own home-grown basil in your tomato soup, or your scrambled eggs, or a salad will make you smile.

· Have a little more room? Go for a tomato plant. It ’ ll need a little more attention and space. You’ll need to rotate the pot, water, and support the branches but nothing tastes like a vine ripened home-grown tomato. As you watch it go from bloom to fruit the anticipation will build.

Grow Something to Attract the B’s … Birds, Bees, & Butterflies

· Milk weed, bee balm, cone flowers… The list is long. You are sure to find something that works in your spot be it little or large. Use plants or seeds that are not treated with pest controls and if you have the space go for a little variety that will extend your blooming season. The B’s need you and nothing lifts the spirits like being needed! They are also entertaining/fun to watch and something to look forward to. Try it, you’ll see.

Feed the Hummingbirds

· Hummingbirds are amazing! Once they know you have a feeder, they will show up every morning and evening. You’ll have fun watching them “protect” their feeder. It’s like snoopy and the red baron the way they zoom and dive on each other. Much better than the 24-hour news channel. All you need is a simple feeder. Some feeders attach to the outside of your window with suction cups. The food is simple to make. Just one-part sugar to four parts of water, warm it up in the microwave or stove top just to dissolve the sugar. Then cool and store in the fridge. You’ll be surprised how much they eat! Best part is once they get used to seeing you at the window, they’ll make your day.

www.lordandstephens.com

Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes has been serving families with the highest quality funeral, burial and cremation services in northeastern Georgia since 1989. Their staff of dedicated professionals provide personalized and meaningful ceremonies for each family they work with. They have locations in Athens, Watkinsville, and Danielsville, Georgia.

DO I NEED A “FINAL RESTING PLACE”?

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Jewish Funeral Traditions

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 20:09:01 GMT

As we begin to learn more about religious practices outside of our own, it is sometimes surprising to find how much different faiths have in common. Mourners of all faiths understand the power of grief and the comfort of community. So, what happens when a person of the Jewish faith dies, and how can a person outside that faith support a friend or neighbor who is grieving?

In order to support a person of the Jewish faith when they have experienced a loss, one must learn about the Kaddish and sitting Shiva. According to Jewish Law anyone who has lost a parent, sibling, child, or spouse recites Kaddish every day beginning with the funeral and continuing for thirty days after the death. The Mourners Kaddish is a prayer, a profession of faith. The prayer is a listing of God’s holy attributes. Jewish law requires that sanctification of God’s name and requires ten voices … a minyan. This requirement of a minyan assures that the mourner is not alone. For thirty days the Mourners Kaddish is recited in the presence of at least ten people. According to Anita Diamant in her book Saying Kaddish… “The power of Kaddish comes, in large measure, from the consolations of being in a group that recognizes and embraces the bereaved”.

The Hebrew word for funeral is Levayah, which means “accompanying”. There is no religious requirement for clergy to be present at a Jewish funeral. The responsibility is on the family. The service does not address the ideas of heaven, redemption or reunion, the focus is on the life of the deceased. The service is simple. Here are no flowers or music, the casket is lowered and all in attendance participate in covering the coffin. Once the casket is lowered the business of caring for the dead is ended. The focus now shifts to mourning and supporting the family in their grief.

Shiva or “sitting Shiva” is a time for the bereaved. Traditionally Shiva lasts for seven days, although in modern times that is sometimes abbreviated to three days. It is a time to “sit” with grief. During Shiva the bereaved do not work or play. No calling into the office, no cooking, no dishes, no television or video games. Shiva is a time to do grief work. It is a time to explore emotions and feelings, to cry and to laugh. It is a time to share memories, tell stories, and receive consolation.

When a Jewish person dies:

Expect the service to take place the day after the death.
The service will be held either at a funeral home or a synagogue/temple
There will never be an open casket
The service will be led by a rabbi
The rabbi may deliver the eulogy or eulogies may be delivered by friends or family
Close friends and family will attend the interment. All who attend the interment will participate in filling the grave.
As the closest members of the family leave the gravesite, they pass between two rows of relatives and friends.
Do telephone or visit the bereaved
Do bring food, to be on the safe side, bring kosher food
Do not send flowers
Do make a contribution to a favorite charity in honor of the deceased
When calling on family members who are sitting Shiva expect to stay for 20 to 30 minutes. The Mourners Kaddish will be recited twice a day, morning and evening. A guest should stand when the mourners stand and read along with the prayer in English
The one-year anniversary of the death is marked with a ceremony, yahrzeit. This ceremony is by invitation only and usually involves a service at the synagogue and “unveiling” of the tombstone at the cemetery.

www.lordandstephens.com

HOW TO CHOOSE A CASKET?

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 05:00:00 GMT

VETERANS: IS MY FUNERAL PAID FOR?

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT

THE MANY DETAILS A FUNERAL DIRECTOR IS RESPONSIBLE FOR

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT

WHO SHOULD RECORD MY FUNERAL WISHES?

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 04:00:00 GMT

DO I NEED A PERMANENT PLACE FOR MY LOVED ONE’S URN?

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 04:00:00 GMT

PREPARING FOR A FUNERAL: CLEAR AND OPEN COMMUNICATION WITH A FUNERAL HOME

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 04:00:00 GMT

GRIEF - FEELING INDECISIVE

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT

MOVING ON WITH LIFE AFTER THE DEATH OF A LOVED ONE

Fri, 05 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT

WHAT ARE DEATH CERTIFICATES FOR AND HOW MANY DO I NEED?

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 04:00:00 GMT

WHAT TO DO WHEN SOMEONE DIES: WHAT TYPES OF SERVICE CAN WE HAVE?

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 05:00:00 GMT

WHAT TO DO WHEN SOMEONE DIES: SHOULD WE HAVE A SERVICE?

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WHAT TO DO FIRST WHEN SOMEONE DIES

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WHEN THE SOUL LEAVES THE BODY … REACTING TO A SUDDEN UNEXPECTED DEATH

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT

WHAT IS PTSD?

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 04:00:00 GMT

MAKE FAMILY THE FOUNDATION FOR FUNERAL PLANNING

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT

WHO WILL TAKE CARE OF MY FUNERAL PLANS?

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT

HOW MUCH DO FUNERALS COST?

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT

FUNERALS ARE FOR SAINTS AND SINNERS

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 04:00:00 GMT

CONTROL FUNERAL COSTS BY PLANNING AHEAD

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT

FOOD AND FUNERALS

Fri, 06 May 2022 04:00:00 GMT

HOW TO DRESS FOR A FUNERAL

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT

HOW TO SAY THE RIGHT THING AT A FUNERAL

Sat, 12 Mar 2022 05:00:00 GMT

WHAT TO EXPECT AT A FUNERAL

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 05:00:00 GMT

WHAT DO FUNERAL DIRECTORS DO?

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 05:00:00 GMT

NICE LOOKING FUNERAL HOME DOESN’T MEAN EXPENSIVE

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 05:00:00 GMT

LEAVING SOMETHING IN THE CASKET

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 05:00:00 GMT

THREE THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THANKSGIVING

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 04:00:00 GMT

FUNERAL HOME NEAR ME

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT

TALKING WITH A VETERAN

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 04:00:00 GMT

PLANNING A MEMORIAL SERVICE: DO IT YOURSELF OR CALL THE FUNERAL DIRECTOR?

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 04:00:00 GMT

THINKING NO FUNERAL? THINK AGAIN.

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 04:00:00 GMT

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FUNERAL SERVICE: 10 STEPS TO HELP YOU GET IT RIGHT

Fri, 21 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT

EXPRESSIONS OF CONDOLENCES

Fri, 07 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT

WHAT TO GIVE MOM FOR MOTHER’S DAY

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 04:00:00 GMT

TOP THREE PRIORITIES FOR THOSE WHO ARE GRIEVING

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 04:00:00 GMT

When a person is in the midst of grief, taking care of themselves can get lost in the mayhem. There really are so many things to do. Eating well, exercise, and even sleep just don’t seem that important. The reality is that grief takes a lot of energy. Self-care might just be the most important item on the agenda.If you know someone who is grieving, feed them. Make it easy. Take them something to eat. The effort of ordering a meal or getting dressed to go out to eat can be overwhelming to a person who is mourning a loss.If you are grieving, buy a few easy-to-prepare foods. Eggs and soup can be a good start. Don’t overlook the freezer section. Buy an apple. Microwave popcorn is not a meal!Exercise doesn’t always need to involve weights, running, or even sweat. Just take a walk. Start small. Try ten minutes the first few days and then see if that can be increased each week. Set your sights on a 30 minute walk each day.The experts tell us we need seven to eight hours of sleep a night. They suggest going to bed at a regular time and getting up at a regular time. Set the alarm and watch those naps. It is tempting to use sleep to avoid those sad feelings. Too much sleep is no better than too little sleep. Try turning down the thermostat at night. Those in the know tell us 65 to 68 degrees is the optimal temp for sleep. Paying attention to these three basics, eating well, exercise, and sleep will help support a person who is involved in the difficult task of grieving.www.lordandstephens.com Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes has been serving families with the highest quality funeral, burial and cremation services in northeastern Georgia since 1989. Their staff of dedicated professionals provide personalized and meaningful ceremonies for each family they work with. They have locations in Athens, Watkinsville, and Danielsville, Georgia.

“WHEN I DIE, I JUST WANT YOU TO …”

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT

Adult children of parents of a certain age frequently find themselves caught off guard by parents who want to share their do’s and don’ts about their funeral service. It’s just natural to want to share thoughts on one’s final wishes. Most families appreciate the guidance. However, something this important really should be written and on file at the funeral home.Consistency is crucial. A series of “in the moment” comments to various children at different times, almost always leads to each child having at least a slightly different page at a time when they really need to work together.Those off hand missives are very frequently made without consideration of the mourners. Telling children, you don’t want to be viewed after death may mean that a dear granddaughter who lives far away misses out on the opportunity to say “good-bye” in a way that would have helped her. So, before telling your children what you would like for your funeral service consider asking them what they would like to do for you. It’s also for the family that is left behind.Enlisting the help of a funeral director or advance planner is very helpful and not at all difficult. Nearly all funeral homes have dedicated staff to help people plan funerals in advance. Parents and children can come together for the planning meeting and ensure everyone is on the same page. This service is typically provided by the funeral home at no charge and can provide peace of mind for the whole family. www.lordandstephens.com Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes has been serving families with the highest quality funeral, burial and cremation services in northeastern Georgia since 1989. Their staff of dedicated professionals provide personalized and meaningful ceremonies for each family they work with. They have locations in Athens, Watkinsville, and Danielsville, Georgia.

WHY DON’T WE CELEBRATE LIFE WHILE THE PERSON IS ALIVE?

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 05:00:00 GMT

MAKING THE FUNERAL ABOUT THE ONE WHO DIED

Sat, 26 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT

CHRISTMAS AFTER THE DEATH OF A LOVED ON

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT

THE FIRST THANKSGIVING WITHOUT THE ONE YOU LOVE

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 04:00:00 GMT

PREPARING THE EULOGY

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 04:00:00 GMT

MAKING THE FUNERAL ABOUT THE ONE WHO DIED

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 04:00:00 GMT

EMBALMING … WHAT FUNERAL DIRECTORS DO

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 04:00:00 GMT

THE BEST INSURANCE PURCHASE YOU WILL EVER MAKE

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT

We all have our love/hate relationship with insurance. Typically, we pay and pay and then we pray we don’t ever need to file a claim. No one wants to have their house burn down or blow away. But, it is also hard to write that check every month. Most folks do so because they are afraid not to.However, there is one kind of insurance you will absolutely use. You’ll get more than you paid in, and you don’t have to pay endlessly.Funeral insurance, not to be confused with final expense insurance, is the rare insurance product designed to cover a cost that you absolutely will incur. We all die in the end. So, how does it work?Funeral insurance is sold through your funeral home. The amount of the insurance matches the cost of your funeral in today’s dollars. It can be paid in one payment and you are done. Or, you can pay over three to 20 years and be covered for the whole cost of your funeral while you pay. It’s easy to find out more. Just call the funeral home and ask to speak to someone in the advance planning department. You will want to set aside one to two hours for your meeting with the advance planner. You will have questions. Remember to ask how funeral insurance is different from final expense insurance. www.lordandstephens.com Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes has been serving families with the highest quality funeral, burial and cremation services in northeastern Georgia since 1989. Their staff of dedicated professionals provide personalized and meaningful ceremonies for each family they work with. They have locations in Athens, Watkinsville, and Danielsville, Georgia.

WHERE ARE YOU NOW? THREE TO SIX MONTHS AFTER THE DEATH OF A SPOUSE

Fri, 29 May 2020 04:00:00 GMT

THE CHANGING FACE OF AMERICAN VETERANS

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 04:00:00 GMT

SOCIAL DISTANCING, WEDDINGS AND FUNERALS

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MOTHER DIED…HOW LONG DO WE KEEP HER THINGS?

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 04:00:00 GMT

PREPARING THE EULOGY

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Protection from Scams

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Funerals are changing ... but grief is still the same

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Happy New Year 2020

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Christmas

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The gift of a note to your family

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Too Little Too Late - A Memorial Gone Wrong

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Should I go to the funeral?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Why should you attend a funeral? The presence of family and friends at the funeral is appreciated. We gather to acknowledge a life that was lived. We gather to comfort those for whom life has just been forever changed by the death of someone they loved. If you care for one or more of the survivors, you should attend the funeral (even if you did not know the person who died). Your friend will appreciate your presence. Being there shows that you acknowledge that your friend’s life has changed in some way. Your presence shows your support. If you knew the person who died but do not know their family, you should attend the funeral. Your presence demonstrates your respect for human life in general and the life of the person who died in particular. Perhaps you worked with the person who died. It is comforting for the surviving family to know the person they loved was also appreciated at work. If you are hesitating because you are unfamiliar with the person’s faith and fear you will embarrass yourself or feel like a fish out of water, go anyway. You will be fine. You can prepare a little in advance by looking for some information online about the funeral customs of the family’s faith. When should you stay home? Anytime you are going to a funeral and you know it will make one or more members of the immediate family uncomfortable, perhaps you shouldn’t go. If going is more about you and less about the deceased or the surviving family, don’t go. A funeral is not a place to prove a point. Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes has been serving families with the highest quality funeral, burial and cremation services in northeastern Georgia since 1989. Their staff of dedicated professionals provide personalized and meaningful ceremonies for each family they work with. They have locations in Athens, Watkinsville, and Danielsville, Georgia.

The holidays aren't the same this year

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Oh Boy here come the HOLIDAYS

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Saying thank-you to a Veteran

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 05:00:00 GMT

There are a million ways to say thank you. Great or small they all have value. Decide to always just say thank you whenever you see a person in uniform. When you see a person in uniform at the coffee shop or fast food restaurant pick up their tab if you can. At the airport trade your first class or comfort seat for their standard seat If you have a neighbor who is deployed offer to play catch with the kids or mow the lawn. Ask how you can help Send a care package by contacting Operation Gratitude Donate your old cell phone Drive a Veteran to their doctor appointments (contact the hospital services coordinator at the local VA hospital) Write a letter Volunteer at a VA hospital If you run a business hire a veteran - Hire Heroes USA Donate dollars or time to train service dogs for veterans - Patriot Paws or Puppy Jake Foundation Build a house for a veteran - Building Homes for Heroes Big dollars or only a few dollars, lots of time or only a little time, where there is a will there is a way to say thank you to those who serve in our military. www.lordandstephens.com Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes has been serving families with the highest quality funeral, burial and cremation services in northeastern Georgia since 1989. Their staff of dedicated professionals provide personalized and meaningful ceremonies for each family they work with. They have locations in Athens, Watkinsville, and Danielsville, Georgia.

What can the funeral home do for a Veteran?

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 04:00:00 GMT

What is the Day of the Dead?

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Vanished without a trace

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT

What to look for when you are buying final expense insurance

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Remembering a Rabid Football Fan

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Dad died. What do I do with the pills?

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Cheap cremations

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Where did summer go?

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT

What do you do with cremated remains?

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Cheap funerals

Sun, 01 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Flowers and Funerals

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 04:00:00 GMT

It's not really a funeral plan if it's not at the funeral home

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 04:00:00 GMT

What to expect when you expect to be cremated

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 04:00:00 GMT

How should I prepare for my funeral preplanning meeting?

Fri, 02 Aug 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Cremation or burial ... is that the question?

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Celebrating Grads and Grands

Fri, 19 Jul 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Preplanning Your Funeral in your 60's

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Honoring Military Service

Fri, 05 Jul 2019 04:00:00 GMT

The 4th of July ... Birthday of Our Great Nation

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Writing the Thank You Notes

Fri, 21 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Grief is Individual

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Father's Day

Fri, 07 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Let’s all give a big shout out for all the fathers! Boy, have they ever stepped up to the plate and embraced the changing role of fatherhood. Lots of those who are young dads today were raised by a very different kind of dad. Their dads may have never changed a poopy diaper or traveled alone with an infant. But times have changed. Now, dads are all in. You see them on planes toting a little one in a carrier on their chest, no mom in sight, so you just know they will be changing that diaper. We have stay at home dads, dads who cook meals inside the house as well as on the grill, and dads who know where the kids’ PJs are stored. Lots of big changes in one generation. That’s not to short-change the granddads. The generation that spawned those super adapters. They are now grandfathers and were grand fathers. A generation ago lots of dads supported the family all by themselves. They also coached, were scout masters, mowed their own lawn (with a push mower) and made pancakes on Sunday mornings. These same guys are now the grandpas who are teaching their grandchildren to fish and holding the hand of a princess in a tutu as they wander the zoo. Kudos to the Dad’s! It’s their day! Today is the day to appreciate your dad and to say thank you. You won’t have him forever, you know. Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes has been serving families with the highest quality funeral, burial and cremation services in northeastern Georgia since 1989. Their staff of dedicated professionals provide personalized and meaningful ceremonies for each family they work with. They have locations in Athens, Watkinsville, and Danielsville, Georgia.

Normandy's Hallowed Ground

Sat, 01 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Memorial Day

Fri, 24 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Cremation Society or Funeral Home

Fri, 17 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Mother's Day

Fri, 10 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Thinking about skipping the funeral? What would an Elephant do?

Fri, 03 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Spring: A Fresh Optimistic Start

Fri, 26 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Death and Taxes

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Finding YOUR Joy

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Do I really need to attend the funeral?

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Our dog died and my family wants to get a new one. Why?

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Plan It...All the Way Out

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Moving After a Spouse Dies?

Fri, 15 Mar 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Preserving the Family Relationship While Planning a Funeral

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Why Plan Your Funeral in Advance?

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Where Should I Send My Condolences?

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Get Your Family Involved in Funeral Planning

Sat, 16 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Who Should Record My Funeral Wishes?

Sat, 09 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT

When Death is Sudden and Unexpected

Sat, 02 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Who Will Take Care of My Funeral Plans?

Sun, 27 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT

To Plan or Not to Plan Your Funeral in Advance

Sat, 19 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Email to a Funeral Director

Sat, 12 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT

To: Funeral Director From: Dad with no plan Subject: A question about funeral preplanning Before I get to my question, I have to tell you the background. Friday after Thanksgiving I took my wife (who cooked for a week for that dinner) and my kids (who came from west coast, east coast, and the middle) and the grandkids (who only ate rolls for Thanksgiving) out for pizza. Sounds nice, right? OMG! It took us forever to order, no one could agree! We ended up with one cheese pizza for the picky grandkids, a large with ¼ meat lovers, ¼ with anchovies, and ½ supreme. We also ordered a medium white with gluten free crust. Still they were all picking stuff off, making faces, and huffing and puffing. OMG again! So, my question…and I need your opinion here…how are they going to do when the time comes for them to meet with you to plan my funeral? Do you think maybe the wife and I should do one of those funeral preplans or advance funeral plans? ---------------------------------------- To: Dad with no plan From: Funeral Director Subject: Re: A question about funeral preplanning OMG yes, you and your wife need a plan. Your family sounds perfectly normal! They’ll get over the pizza … but I’ve seen too many families break apart over disagreements about how to honor their parent’s life. Decisions such as burial or cremation or who is going to pay can be tough when families are grieving. A funeral plan is an easy fix. I‘d be happy to help. When do you want to meet with me? At the funeral home or your house? Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes has been serving families with the highest quality funeral, burial and cremation services in northeastern Georgia since 1989. Their staff of dedicated professionals provide personalized and meaningful ceremonies for each family they work with. They have locations in Athens, Watkinsville, and Danielsville, Georgia.

When Your Parent Loses Their Spouse

Sun, 06 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Enjoyable New Year's Resolutions

Sat, 29 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

New year, new you. It’s an exciting concept full of promise, right? Then we take all the fun out of it by resolving to do things we don’t like to do. We’ll lose weight, eat healthier, exercise more, give up ice cream. Ugh, no fun at all. So how about selecting enjoyable resolutions instead? Some ideas to get you thinking are listed below: 1. Do more of something you love. Read more books, go fishing more often, spend more time with your kids or grandkids, binge-watch your favorite series from the start again. Just enjoy and give yourself a big old hug in the form of having fun your way. 2. Get better at something you really like to do. Take a lesson, learn to cook something new, improve your golf swing, learn a new knitting stitch, or just build on what you love. 3. Make a dream come true. See the mountains or the Grand Canyon. Go to the opera or to Disney. Buy the car, lease the car, or rent the car of you dreams for a weekend. Just complete the following sentence and do it: “I’ve always wanted to _______.” 4. See your town like a tourist. Everything fun doesn’t have to require a lot of money. Most of us have attractions, restaurants, natural wonders or parks close to home that we haven’t visited in ages. Just go. 5. Make lots of new friends. Some friends are for life while other friends can be for just for a few hours or even minutes. Try smiling and talking to the cab driver, the checkout person, or the person next to you as you walk into or out of church. Enjoy your life. Seize the day. Happy New Year! Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes has been serving families with the highest quality funeral, burial and cremation services in northeastern Georgia since 1989. Their staff of dedicated professionals provide personalized and meaningful ceremonies for each family they work with. They have locations in Athens, Watkinsville, and Danielsville, Georgia.

The Loneliness in Losing a Life Partner

Thu, 20 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Accepting an Invitation

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Previous blog posts have acknowledged how hard it is to deal with special occasions (e.g. holidays, birthdays) when you’ve recently lost the one you love. So, what do you do when you receive an invitation for that special occasion that you don’t feel like accepting? Maybe you are afraid you’ll be a wet blanket, or you aren’t eager to do something new and different because you really just want things as they were. That’s understandable but perhaps turning down the invitation isn’t really in your best interest. Before you say “no” to an invitation too quickly, give yourself a few minutes to think about it. Take that time to consider your alternatives. What will you do if you don’t accept it? Is there something you would prefer to do? Think about it, do you really want to be alone on that special day? It is important to acknowledge that the day won’t be the same. Acknowledge your loss. A woman who recently lost her husband goes to the cemetery for a little chat on those special days. She tells her husband how it’s hard for her and that she misses him. Then she tells him how she is going to spend the day. It is difficult to do something different on those special occasions. Your first few efforts may even fall short. Eventually, perhaps even sooner than you expect, you will find your joy in those occasions again. Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes has been serving families with the highest quality funeral, burial and cremation services in northeastern Georgia since 1989. Their staff of dedicated professionals provide personalized and meaningful ceremonies for each family they work with. They have locations in Athens, Watkinsville, and Danielsville, Georgia.

A Year of Firsts

Thu, 06 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

The Cranberry Sauce is for Dad

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT

People often say that one of the hardest things about that first year, the year after your loved one died, is that no one uses their name or talks about them. The hole in your heart begins to feel deeper and wider because talking about them seems forbidden. And as the holidays approach, the quietness can feel even more painful. So, why not take the bull by the horns, so to speak, and find a way to bring your loved one to your holiday gathering in a light but meaningful way. A good example of keeping your loved one in your holiday gathering is the family that always includes that jiggly cranberry sauce straight from the can on their table. There it is - just as it comes from the can - indentations, ridges, and all. Every year it’s there for dad. Every year it is ceremoniously placed on the table accompanied by a few words about how important it was to dad’s enjoyment of the holiday. Every year it brings lots of smiles and stories about dad. If you have lost someone dear, and you miss them more at the holidays, consider opening the conversation, using their name, and talking about them in a positive way. Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes has been serving families with the highest quality funeral, burial and cremation services in northeastern Georgia since 1989. Their staff of dedicated professionals provide personalized and meaningful ceremonies for each family they work with. They have locations in Athens, Watkinsville, and Danielsville, Georgia.

The First Thanksgiving Without the One You Love

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Make Family the Foundation for Funeral Planning

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT

How Much Does a Funeral Cost?

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Thank You for Your Service

Sat, 10 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Because you are there we all sleep better at night. You serve in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard. Some of you serve for two years, some for twenty or more. Some enter into service at a tender age looking for opportunity. Some are following a longstanding family tradition. You are mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters. We, thank you for your service. You spend days, weeks, and even years away from your family. You are not always there to teach your daughter to ride her bike; perhaps you missed your son’s first steps. Because you serve, you can’t always be counted on to attend the baseball game or the teacher conference. With your service comes sacrifice. Sacrifices made by both you and your family. We thank you and your family for your service. Thank you for being ready and on alert so that we can go about our business without even thinking about the “what ifs”. Thank you for putting yourself in harms way. Thank you for giving us your time, your energy and your youth. Thank you for representing us with honor where ever you are stationed. Regardless of whether you serve us at home or in foreign lands, in time of war or peace, we thank you for your service. On Memorial Day we remember those who gave their lives in our service, on Armed Forces Day we honor those currently serving. On Veterans Day we honor all who have served our country from the Revolution in 1776 to today. Thank you. Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes has been serving families with the highest quality funeral, burial and cremation services in northeastern Georgia since 1989. Their staff of dedicated professionals provide personalized and meaningful ceremonies for each family they work with. They have locations in Athens, Watkinsville, and Danielsville, Georgia.

Talking with a Veteran

Sat, 03 Nov 2018 04:00:00 GMT

How to Thank a Veteran

Sat, 27 Oct 2018 04:00:00 GMT

Three hundred and sixty five days a year, twenty-four hours a day, rain or shine, hot or cold, from the year 1776 to present day, they’re serving our country. They are our veterans and November 11th is the official day that we honor and thank them each year. So what can you do to show your appreciation? Here are a few ideas: Attend a parade or remembrance event held in your community Brush up on your patriotic etiquette Teach your children things such as when to stand for the American flag or what to do during the playing of our National Anthem Visit the gravesite of a veteran Hang a flag in your yard Support a veteran-owned business Hire a veteran or the spouse of a veteran Visit a veterans hospital Say thank you to a veteran and his or her family Did you know you can even hold a “Care Package Party”? Here’s how: Invite friends to bring items for those serving away from home You can contact the US Post Office for help with packaging supplies for military care packages. Some items you could send: Foot care products Cotton socks Flavorings for water iTunes gift card Snacks Hand written notes expressing your thanks Everyone is busy and on Veteran’s Day we’ll be inundated with advertising. It will be easy to see November 11th just as another great sale day…but it is so much more. Perhaps the most important thing you could do is ask a veteran you know to tell you about their experience and then listen. Just really listen. Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes has been serving families with the highest quality funeral, burial and cremation services in northeastern Georgia since 1989. Their staff of dedicated professionals provide personalized and meaningful ceremonies for each family they work with. They have locations in Athens, Watkinsville, and Danielsville, Georgia.

Funerals are for Saints and Sinners

Sat, 20 Oct 2018 04:00:00 GMT

The History of Veterans Day

Sat, 13 Oct 2018 04:00:00 GMT

Control Funeral Costs by Planning Ahead

Sat, 06 Oct 2018 04:00:00 GMT

Food Provides Comfort

Sat, 29 Sep 2018 04:00:00 GMT

How to Dress for a Funeral

Sat, 22 Sep 2018 04:00:00 GMT

How to Say the Right Thing at a Funeral

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 04:00:00 GMT

First, take a deep breath and relax. We all worry that we’ll say the wrong thing. Second, know that you don’t have to be eloquent. While we wish it were so, you can’t make everything all better with a few words. Here are a few simple ideas to keep in mind to be sure you say the right thing when attending a funeral. Don’t underestimate the power of your presence. It’s important. Just being there says more than you can know. Keep your words simple. “I’m sorry for your loss” may be all that is needed. Share your story. If you have a brief anecdote about how you interacted with the deceased, share it. Knowing how her sister lit up her workplace may just be the most comforting thing a mourner can hear. Use deceased person’s name. “Mary always made me laugh.” “John had the longest drive, too bad it wasn’t always straight.” “We always knew when Big Bad Byron was in the plant, everyone was on their toes.” “Nobody made better chocolate chip cookies than your mother.” Avoid using common platitudes. Resist the temptation to tell the bereaved how they must feel -- “grateful that he is in a better place,” “relieved that his suffering is over,” “grateful for a long life,” etc. We don’t know how that wife, husband, mother, son, or daughter actually feels. Just say you’re sorry for their loss. Let them tell you how they feel and accept it with a nod or hug. Don’t forget about listening. Listen to understand, not just to hear. Listen to show you care, not to judge. Listen with love, even when you’ve heard the story before. Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes has been serving families with the highest quality funeral, burial and cremation services in northeastern Georgia since 1989. Their staff of dedicated professionals provide personalized and meaningful ceremonies for each family they work with. They have locations in Athens, Watkinsville, and Danielsville, Georgia.

What to Expect at a Funeral

Sat, 08 Sep 2018 04:00:00 GMT

What Do Funeral Directors Do?

Sat, 01 Sep 2018 04:00:00 GMT