Traditional Burial Services

Overview

Traditional burial remains one of the most common funeral choices in Phoenix. This guide covers everything you need to know about planning a traditional burial service.

The Traditional Burial Process

Body Preparation
- Embalming (optional but common for viewing)
- Dressing and cosmetic preparation
- Placement in casket
Viewing/Visitation
- Usually 1-2 days before funeral
- Opportunity for family and friends to pay respects
- Can be public or private
Funeral Service
- Religious or secular ceremony
- Eulogies and readings
- Music and remembrances
Burial Service
- Procession to cemetery
- Graveside ceremony
- Final committal

Required Elements

Casket selection
Cemetery plot or mausoleum space
Burial vault (required by most cemeteries)
Headstone or grave marker

Cost Considerations

Typical Expenses

Basic services fee: $2,000-$2,500
Embalming: $500-$700
Casket: $2,000-$5,000+
Cemetery plot: $1,500-$3,000
Vault: $1,000-$2,000
Headstone: $1,000-$3,000

Choosing a Cemetery

Consider these factors when selecting a cemetery:

Location and accessibility
Plot availability and cost
Cemetery rules and regulations
Perpetual care provisions
Monument and decoration policies

Planning Tips

Start planning early if possible
Compare prices from multiple funeral homes
Consider pre-planning to lock in current prices
Review cemetery contracts carefully
Understand all fees and charges

Legal Requirements

In Phoenix, traditional burial services must comply with:

Arizona Department of Health Services regulations
Local zoning laws for cemeteries
Transportation requirements
Death certificate filing requirements