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Our Message to You

Our Message to You

There is only one sure thing that a person must do – that is to die. Although we know death is inevitable, the majority of us make no arrangements for that day, leaving that task to our bereaved family and friends.

Unknown to many, a funeral service is one of the three largest single purchases the average person makes. The other two being a home and an automobile. Of the three, lengthy investigations are generally undertaken before purchasing either a home or an automobile. But people spend less than an hour in the purchasing of funeral services for a loved one. It is estimated that the average person participates in the purchase of three funeral services in their lifetime.

To prepare for that ultimate day, as a practicing funeral director, I suggest that at some point in time we all should have a will on file. This may be done by the person himself or by an attorney. A person should be aware of financial challenges caused by death and should know whether life insurance, Social Security benefits and other types of coverage will apply to his funeral and burial. A good funeral director will be helpful in these areas if his assistance is needed.

The selecting of a funeral director is one of the most important steps in the preparation for services and burial. A bad choice in funeral directors can be costly.

If at all possible, visit a funeral home prior to the death of a loved one; meet with the director, inspect his facilities and ask questions concerning cost and other services. Most funeral directors will welcome your visit. There is no substitute for prior investigation. However, lacking that investigation, reliable friends, business persons or relatives who have experienced the death of a loved one, can generally offer you good advice.

The cost of funeral service varies little from funeral home to funeral home. The difference in the price is mainly due to the facilities and services rendered. The competition in the funeral business in the Chicago area is great and this tends to hold down costs. It should be the goal of every funeral director to offer services in a price range that will not only fit your budget but your taste.

Let me leave you with this thought: There is nothing more important to a family than proper services for a loved one. Pre-planning makes a difficult time easier.

By: Howard B. Brookins, Sr.

Brookins Funeral Home
Phone: (773) 233-3002
9315 S. Ashland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60620

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