What is Cremation?
Cremation is the reduction of the body of a deceased person to recoverable bone
fragments through a process which combines intense heat and evaporation. The fragments are
then collected and referred to as "cremated remains" or "ashes"
Is Cremation allowed for Catholics and can ashes be inurned in the cemetery?
Yes, on both counts. In 1963, the Catholic Church modified its longstanding general
prohibition of cremation as a burial option. Ashes can be interred in an urn site (ground)
or a niche (wall). In addition, a single set of ashes can be added to an existing grave or
crypt through the purchase of a second burial right.
Do you have to be a Catholic to be buried in a Catholic Cemetery?
No. People of all faiths are welcome in our cemeteries.
Is there any chance my grave will be resold after a specified number of years?
No. The purchaser has an exclusive and permanent right of use through an easement
conveyed by the Cemetery.
Do I have to pay a monthly maintenance fee?
No. A one time Endowment Care fee is charged at the time you purchase a grave, crypt or
niche. The money is placed in a special restricted fund, the proceeds of which are used to
cover future maintenance costs throughout the cemetery
If I move after purchasing, can I get a refund?
Yes. Our cemeteries will refund the amount you prepaid. There is a nominal cancellation
fee, which is deducted from your refund. You may not sell the property yourself, but you
may transfer ownership to a family member.
If I am divorced and remarried can I be buried in a Catholic Cemetery: or if a
person commits suicide, can he or she be buried in a Catholic Cemetery?
Yes on both counts. For more information, please contact your parish priest.
What kind of monument may I purchase?
Monuments must conform to the regulations that govern the different parts of the
cemetery. We offer, flat monuments in granite and bronze. Upright monuments are only
available in granite. Ceramic photos, emblems, memorial benches, and statues are available
in all of our cemeteries.
(Queen of Heaven Cemetery only allows flush
bronze headstones – no granite or upright).
Does the cemetery have copies of the death certificate?
No. The document kept on file at the cemetery is called a "permit of
disposition", and it is issued by the Health Department registrar.
How do I pay for burial arrangements?
There are a variety of payment options and terms to help you remain within your
personal budget. Cash, check, Mastercard and VISA are honored for your convenience.
Interest free payment terms may be arranged with a down payment at the time of purchase.
Special terms are also available for persons in need. In special cases, when a family has
no way to finance burial, the cemetery will inter the deceased for a minimum charge.
