Traditional Burial Services

Complete guide to traditional burial services and options in Phoenix, including costs, preparation, and ceremony planning.

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

  1. Body Preparation
    • Embalming (optional but common for viewing)
    • Dressing and cosmetic preparation
    • Placement in casket
  2. Viewing/Visitation
    • Usually 1-2 days before funeral
    • Opportunity for family and friends to pay respects
    • Can be public or private
  3. Funeral Service
    • Religious or secular ceremony
    • Eulogies and readings
    • Music and remembrances
  4. 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