In the realms of life and loss, the choices we make often reflect our desire to pay homage to the uniqueness of those we hold dear. In recent years, cremation has gained popularity for families as it offers a more flexible and personalized opportunity to celebrate the lives of their loved ones. For families considering cremation, this choice opens the door to a wide array of memorial service ideas that can celebrate the life of the departed in a unique and meaningful way. We are going to explore some creative and heartwarming memorial service ideas for families that choose cremation, as well as address some common misconceptions that are associated with cremation. Let’s take a closer look at both of these. Meaningful and Personalized Ideas When choosing cremation as the final tribute to a loved one, there are many meaningful and personalized possibilities for you to choose from. Scattering Ceremony: Holding a scattering ceremony where you scatter the cremated remains of your loved one at a meaningful place can be a beautiful way to commemorate their life. Family and friends can attend to participate in the special ceremony and share stories or memories about the individual. Memorial Jewelry: Turning some of the cremated remains into memorial jewelry is a way to allow family members to carry a part of their loved one with them no matter where they go. This can be in the form of a pendant, bracelet, or ring, helping to create a tangible reminder of their presence. Biodegradable Urn Planting: In contrast to the traditional urn, a biodegradable urn is designed to nurture the growth of a tree or plant when the ashes are interred. This memorial service idea offers a lasting tribute to the memory of your loved one, as their remains contribute to the beauty of nature. Memory Bench or Plaque: Create a lasting memorial by installing a bench or a plaque in a place that was meaningful to your loved one. Virtual Memorial: With the digital age upon us, hosting a virtual memorial service allows friends and family members who may not be able to travel to attend in person to pay their respects. Some virtual options to consider are live streaming, having video tributes created, or sharing stories and photos. Cremated Remains Scattering at Sea: Did your loved one have a strong connection to the ocean? If so, a sea burial or cremated remains scattering ceremony at sea could be the perfect memorial service option. It is a dignified way to honor their memory if they loved the ocean. Federal law requires that ashes are scattered at least 3 nautical miles from shore and the EPA must be notified within 30 days of the scattering. Candlelight Vigil: A very powerful and meaningful memorial service idea is to organize a candlelight vigil. Having family and friends gather to light candles and share their memories of your loved one creates a special, memorable moment. Urn Burial or Placement: Choosing an in-ground burial of the urn, similar to a traditional casket burial, allows for your loved one to have a final resting place. An alternative option to burial would be to have the urn placed in a columbarium so family and friends have a final resting place that they can visit. These creative memorial service ideas for families opting for cremation provide an opportunity to celebrate the life of the loved one in unique ways that can leave a lasting legacy of love and cherished memories.

Dealing with death is unfortunately something everyone will face in their life, but that does not make the process any easier or less uncomfortable. Talking about death or trying to support someone who is grieving can often leave people feeling flustered or awkward and ultimately lead them to say the wrong thing. While we have the best intentions, saying a clichéd statement about death is bound to happen. None of us want to upset anyone any further, so keep reading to learn what and what not to say to someone who is grieving. What not to say: "They're in a better place," or “everything happens for a reason.” “Bright side” statements like the ones above are most likely said to everyone mourning a loss. They’re an attempt to cheer the person up by putting a positive spin on the situation. However, the goal of being there for someone during a time of grieving is not necessarily to make them feel better—it’s to be present, there for them, and make them feel less alone in the situation. What to say instead: "I'm sorry you're suffering." Losing someone is painful, so it’s important to show those dealing with that loss that you’re there for them. Plain and simple. What not to say: "Please let me know if you need anything,” or “Let me know how I can help.” Hearing these phrases from multiple people can be quite overwhelming for those grieving. It not only gives them one more thing to do, but also puts the burden on them to ask for help. What to say: "I'll bring groceries over later this week," or "I’ll come over Wednesday to do some loads of laundry and cook dinner." Offering tangible ways you can help provides one less thing for them to worry about. People tend to be more willing to accept support when it’s a specific rather than an open-ended offer. What not to say : "I know how you feel." Dealing with loss and grief is not one size fits all. While it is a universal experience, no two people have the same relationship with someone, and how one experiences loss can be completely different than how someone else does. What to say: "I can only imagine how you're feeling." Indicating that you’ve been through something similar can provide comfort without invalidating their specific feelings. What not to say: "They would have wanted it this way." Unless they pre-planned their funeral or services, there is no way to know what they would have wanted—whether it’s an extravagant memorial service or a simple funeral. Speaking for the deceased opens the door for unnecessary disagreements or arguments between friends and family, as everyone might have different opinions on the matter. What to say: "I'd like to honor them this way." Give concrete details and explain why you’d like to honor them in this particular way. It gives all those involved a better understanding of your relationship and might tap into a specific time period or characteristic of the deceased that everyone will want to remember. What not to say: "You're handling this better than I expected," or “You’re so strong.” It’s highly likely that they might just be putting on a happy face while they’re surrounded by people or in a public place. Comments like this might make them feel like they’re not grieving the “right” way, or that they’re weak for feeling anything other than strong. What to say: "You might not be feeling great, and that's okay," or “Tell me how you’re feeling.” It’s important to let those who are grieving feel however they want to feel. There is no right or wrong way to cope with loss. Let them know you’re there for them and that however they’re feeling at that time is valid. What not to say: "You should…” or “Try to…” Unsolicited advice is a surefire way to make someone feel judged while they’re in the process of mourning a loss. Unless they’ve asked you for advice, refrain from giving them any. What to say: "What would you like to do?” or “Move at your own pace.” While it’s always hard to see someone you know or love grieving, you cannot force them to get through the healing process faster. By asking them what they need or saying affirmation statements, you’re showing them that they don’t need to do anything other than grieve in the way that’s best for them. Planning funeral arrangements while mourning the loss of a loved one is never easy, and it’s important to contact one of the local funeral homes as soon as possible so they can lighten the burden for you. If you’re located in Calvert County, MD or Prince George’s County, MD, Lee Funeral Homes is here to help. From planning ahead to grief support, contact us today to see how our family can help you.

When we die, we want to be remembered on our terms and in our own unique way. Talking about death with loved ones is never easy, but it’s important to do so to show them exactly how you want to be remembered. Having the Talk of a Lifetime also significantly reduces the amount of stress your loved ones experience when it comes time to make service arrangements. What Does it Mean to “Have the Talk of a Lifetime”? Many people do not realize the value of remembering or honoring a loved one at a funeral or memorial service. A lot of people want to get through the process as quickly as possible, but properly remembering your loved one after they’ve passed can be healing, comforting, and even transformative. Have the Talk of a Lifetime was created to assist families in having these difficult conversations. Rather than making it melancholy, families can discuss what matters most to them and how someone’s story can be honored and remembered in a meaningful way. More importantly, it ensures that someone is memorialized in the way they want to be, such as reflecting on their experiences, values, interests, and life story overall. How to Start the Conversation We fully understand that having this conversation can be difficult. However, there are many ways in which you can address this conversation with a more relaxed approach. Know the participants: Make sure everyone is open to having the conversation and do not force anyone to participate. Know your surroundings: Have the conversation in a space where everyone feels comfortable and is free from unwanted distractions. Know everyone’s comfort levels: Ensure everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings, especially without fear of a negative response or backlash. Know the audience: Make sure everyone is heard, and do not let one person take over the conversation. Know everyone’s bandwidth: These conversations can be tough. Make sure everyone knows this conversation does not have to take place in one sitting and can be an ongoing discussion over short periods of time. Know how to handle disagreements: If differing opinions take place, make sure to have everyone talk through their thoughts, feelings, and reasoning behind them. Understanding where one another comes from can help immensely when making these decisions. What to Discuss There are plenty of questions to ask and ideas to consider when it comes to Have the Talk of a Lifetime. The following can help you navigate through these decisions. Before discussing pre-planning , consider asking some of the following: How do you want to be remembered? Was there a defining moment in your life that you believe formed who you are? What would you like at your memorial service that you might not see at another service? How would you like your loved ones to celebrate your life when you die? Who will handle your financials, insurance, and other official documents? Does that individual know where this information is? Would you like anyone in particular to speak at your memorial service? Where would you like the service to be held? Do you want a religious or non-religious ceremony? More conversation starters can be found here . Whether you’re figuring out how to navigate the Talk of a Lifetime with a loved one or looking for an affordable funeral home in Calvert County, MD or Prince George’s County, MD, consider contacting Lee Funeral Homes. The staff at Lee Funeral Homes takes great pride in caring for our families and has made a commitment to provide you with a beautiful, lasting tribute to your loved one. We can assist you every step of the way and even provide you with a breakdown of funeral costs to ensure we choose the most affordable options for your family.

When it comes to honoring a Veteran after they’ve passed, there are many different steps to follow in order to show proper respect. Keep reading to learn the proper ways to honor our fallen heroes. What Are Traditional Elements or Honors That Take Place During Veterans Memorial Services? A standard honor military funeral can include the following honors: A US flag that gets draped over the casket and given to next of kin after services. Casket transportation by a hearse, depending on the level of service, provided by the funeral home. A three-volley salute fired by a rifle party consisting of an odd number of 3-7 service members. The playing of Taps, either performed or via an audio recording. Final Salute at the grave site A full-honor military funeral includes all the standard honors listed above, as well as: A military chaplain to assist family members. A ceremonial guard serving as pallbearers. A flyover by fighter jets in missing man formation Casket transportation by horse-drawn caisson A riderless horse, which symbolizes a fallen leader, that follows the limbers and caissons for commanding officers of O-6 (Colonel/Captain) and above An 11–17-gun salute for general officers and flag officers, depending on their rank. Participation from a military band and an escort platoon Are There Benefits Associated? Family and survivors of anyone who was an active or retired member of the military, or an honorably discharged Veteran could be able for the following benefits: An American flag that can be displayed either folded in the casket or draped over the casket. Burial in a National Cemetery (includes the grave space and opening and closing of the grave) A bronze or granite marker A lump sum payment between $300-$2,000, which you can learn more about here If not remarried, the surviving spouse is eligible for burial in the National Cemetery. Dependent children of the Veteran are also eligible. Reimbursement of burial expense** ** It’s important to note that reimbursement claims for Veteran's Benefits must be filed within two years of death by the Veteran's family, a non-family member who can prove that the Veteran's funeral services are paid, or the funeral director. How Can Lee Funeral Homes Help? Paperwork When working with us, do not worry about paperwork. We will promptly complete and file all necessary documentation to ensure that a Veteran's family receives any available death benefits. You can count on us to handle this with the Federal Veterans Administration and County Veterans Affairs office. All that we ask is that we be provided with a copy of the Veteran's Honorable Discharge. If a Veteran is considering making pre-need arrangements with us, we encourage them to allow us to copy discharge paperwork and keep that copy in the pre-need file for future reference. This service is offered to Veterans whether pre-paying a pre-need or not. Presidential Memorial Certificate To properly recognize and honor the Veteran, we request a certificate that bears the signature of the President of the United States. We obtain one of these certificates for every surviving spouse and child of a Veteran. If you did not receive a Presidential Memorial Certificate when your Veteran passed away, email us at Info@LeeFuneralHomes.com and we will procure a certificate for you at NO CHARGE. Flag Retirement Program We coordinate with local Veterans groups around Calvert County MD and Prince George’s County, MD to collect worn flags and cremate them in accordance with the flag code. ** **In accordance with the UNITED STATES CODE, The “FLAG CODE,” TITLE 36 Chapter 10; 1176. Respect for flag: The flag represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing. (k) The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning. What Is the Process for Honoring a Veteran at Lee Funeral Homes? The First Phone Call No matter who notifies us of a death, one of the first questions we ask is if the deceased person was a Veteran so that we know what procedures to follow. When transporting the Veteran, we drape the stretcher with a flag, no matter where or what time. We make sure to respect a Veteran from the moment we’re called to serve. The Funeral Hearse When taking the Veteran to their final resting place, we ensure their coach is identified with the American flag and the emblem of their branch of service, both on the back and side doors. Identifying Pallbearers Pallbearers usually dress in regular civilian attire unless the Veteran passed during active duty. To identify pallbearers, we provide each with a lapel pin as a gift of recognition for their service as a pallbearer for a Veteran. Patriot’s Walk Before the funeral procession arrives at the final resting place, our staff prepares the burial site by installing a double row of flags from the driveway where the coach will stop to the graveside, creating Patriot’s Walk in honor of the Veteran. Honor Guard We contact the Maryland National Guard to serve as an honor guard. They will provide a Final Salute through military honors. Here at Lee Funeral Homes, we ensure that those who served our country will be properly honored. We understand how personal this matter is to your family, and we keep that in mind every step of the way. We do all we can to honor and pay respect to our fallen heroes. If you require funeral arrangements, don't spend valuable time researching “funeral homes near me” or “local funeral homes.” Contact Lee Funeral Homes today, and we’ll take care of everything you need .

Losing a loved one is never easy, and planning funeral arrangements while dealing with the grief can be overwhelming on top of all the other emotions you might be feeling. A million questions might start to swirl around in your head—Who should you call? What type of service should you have? What if nothing was taken care of ahead of time? During this time, you’ll need to contact a funeral home and focus on at-need funeral planning. But what exactly is it? What Is At-Need Funeral Planning? At-need funeral planning, otherwise known as immediate need, occurs either at the “time of need” or after a death has already happened. These at-need services are offered to families that do not have any pre-arranged plans. For many, this occurs in the case of a sudden or unexpected death or a short-term medical diagnosis; however, that is not always the case. What Is the Difference Between At-Need and Pre-Need Funeral Planning? When dealing with the loss of a loved one, you might hear the terms at-need or pre-need, but what is the difference between the two? Simply put, surviving immediate family make at-need arrangements after a death has occurred. Pre-need consists of someone planning their own funeral arrangements while still living, and taking care of all decisions and payments so that their family does not have to take care of it while grieving. What Shou ld You Do After Losing a Loved One? The following days after a loved one has passed can seem like a whirlwind. There are many steps that need to be taken and decisions that need to be made to ensure all necessary arrangements are in place. At the same time, you want those arrangements to be a meaningful farewell for your loved one. So, what should you do and when? Within hours after they’ve passed: If they were at home or work, contact emergency personnel or their physician if they were under medical care. If no one was present at the time of death, the police will also need to be notified before the deceased is moved to another location. If the death occurred in a hospital, care facility, or hospice program, someone on the staff will contact both you and the proper authorities. If you provided the name of a funeral home, they will contact them as well. The next steps include registration of the death as well as processing proper documentation. The professionals you’ve been in contact with will be able to guide you through the correct procedures. However, if you’re unsure who you should contact or notify, reach out to the funeral home of your choosing, and they will be able to point you in the right direction. Within the first few days of their passing: After you've taken care of the initial necessary arrangements, you’ll want to notify friends and relatives of the death. This step can be extremely difficult for some, and many choose to have a trusted friend, or another family member make these calls. While this is taken care of, you should also look into if your loved one made any pre-arranged plans or had any wishes for their services, which can be discussed with the chosen funeral home. You’ll also want to write a death notice or obituary so that others in the community are notified of the death as well. If there aren’t any prearrangements, you’ll want to consider some of the following: Should you choose embalming? Does a casket need to be purchased? Should your loved one’s remains be cared for through burial or cremation? If you’re feeling overwhelmed, think of the process in two stages: decisions about the service/ how to honor your loved one, and how you’d like to care for their physical remains. When designing the service: If you’re not sure what kind of funeral or memorial you should plan, first consider if you’d like to include the services of a clergy member or spiritual leader. This will help determine the kind of service and what is needed. Keep in mind that the most important thing is honoring your loved one. For many, the services are the first step of the healing journey. It can be as formal, informal, traditional, or untraditional as you’d like. They can take place in any setting and can incorporate any aspects you’d prefer, i.e., art, photos, music, and so on. When taking care of their remains: Know that this can be the most emotional step for many. Whether you choose a formal burial or cremation, several decisions must be made to ensure your loved one's remains are taken care of in the way you prefer. At Lee Funeral Homes, we understand that planning a funeral while grieving your loved one can be a difficult experience. The emotions are high, and the timeframe feels short while you’re trying to cope with loss. Meanwhile, financial concerns can add more stress to the whole situation. From making arrangements to bring your loved one into our care to arranging times for your family to come to the funeral home and starting planning, we’re here to help you during this difficult time. Whether it’s immediate need or pre-planning , our staff is prepared to assist those in Clinton, MD and Owings, MD. Contact us today!

Planning ahead, especially when it’s your funeral arrangements, can seem like an uneasy process that makes you feel uncomfortable. However, being prepared can put your loved ones at ease. What is involved when it comes to pre-need funeral arrangements, and why should you plan? What Is Pre-need? A pre-need plan is purchased from a funeral home of your choosing. To create and set up this plan, you will sit down with a licensed funeral director at the funeral home to discuss the specific arrangements you desire. Afterward, they can help price out what you’ve asked for and work with you to pay the cost ahead of time, either in one large sum or monthly over several years. When discussing pre-need, you might also hear the term pre-need insurance. Otherwise known as burial or funeral insurance, pre-need insurance is a certain type of life insurance that can be used to cover the cost of funeral services and burial or cremation. What Is Pre-planning? Pre-planning is similar to pre-need, with the exception of a payment requirement. You will discuss your preferences with the funeral home and leave instructions, which can be as detailed and specific as you want them to be, with your loved ones. When the time comes, the funeral home will ensure everything is taken care of just as you planned. It’s important to note that while pre-planning does not require payment like a pre-need plan does, many people still choose to have funds put aside for the family to use. A pre-planning checklist not only helps ensure you’ve made all proper decisions ahead of time, but also helps relieve some stress from your loved ones who are in mourning. By pre-planning your services, they’re not left wondering if they planned something you would like or honored you in a way that you would want to be remembered. Pre-planning allows your wishes to be known in advance and offers peace of mind that your wishes will be carried out. The most important parts of a pre-planning checklist include: Choosing the type of service you want What type of service? Where will it be held? Who will be involved? What type of flowers? What music should be played? Choosing who you want to be in charge Make sure your executor has a copy of your will, designate someone to be your executor, and give a family member or friend a list of important account information for services that will need to be contacted after you pass. Choosing to pay in advance Pay for all expenses in advance when possible. This can include cemetery services, burial plots, and all funeral arrangements. Why Should I Have a Plan in Place? While we know this is a difficult reality to wrap your head around, at the end of the day, pre-planning will greatly impact your loved ones as they mourn the loss of someone important: you. Rather than having to frantically plan and figure out what type of service you would want or how you would like to be remembered, you’ve already done the work for them. There are many benefits when it comes to advance funeral planning , including: Make your wishes known Ensure peace of mind Offer flexible spending options Relieve family burden Rather than searching “funeral packages near me” and adding one of many things to your family’s to-do list during a time of mourning, plan ahead with Lee Funeral Homes. Located in both Clinton, MD and Owings, MD, we understand the importance of preparing arrangements in advance. We’ll help you make decisions about your funeral service ahead of time, which in turn will help eliminate some of the unnecessary stress brought on by a loved one’s death that your family and friends might experience. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to learn more.

The holiday season is usually full of joy and togetherness, with family gatherings and traditions. However, it might be hard to feel that way after losing a loved one. While the holidays bring plenty of joy for many, some may need assistance coping with their grief and finding things that bring them joy throughout this time.  Cope with Grief Allow Yourself to Feel Whether it’s joy, anger, sadness, or something else, allow yourself to process these emotions and grieve. It’s expected that the holiday season brings these feelings to the forefront, no matter how long ago you lost your loved one. There is no right or wrong way to grieve, and you’re allowed to experience both joy and laughter throughout these tough times. Plan Ahead Was there a specific tradition or role your loved one usually took on during the holiday season? Planning ahead to fill these roles might help you and your family avoid unnecessary moments of grief. Of course you’re missing your loved one in general, but realizing that a specific role or part they played could potentially intensify those feelings of grief for everyone. Surround Yourself with Your Support System Whether it’s your family, friends, both, or someone else, surrounding yourself with people who care about and support you will help immensely during this tough time. It’s essential to be open with them about how you’re feeling, and don’t force yourself to do anything you’re not up for. They’re most likely grieving with you as well! Honor Those No Longer with You While the holiday season can be a difficult time after a loved one has passed, there are many ways you can honor your loved one as a way to cope with your grief. Using one or a few of these ways to honor them is the perfect way to keep them involved in the holidays and hold onto their memory, even though they’re unable to physically be there. Find Joy Do Something for Others One way to find joy and feel good about the holiday season is simply doing good for others. Whether you’re helping family members so that they’re not stressed during the holiday season or volunteering at a charity to help bring joy to those who need it, the act of giving to others might help alleviate your grief and sadness during this difficult time. Decorate Accordingly No matter what holidays you celebrate, there are plenty of ways you can decorate your home. If you’re not feeling too cheerful during the holiday season, try putting up some decorations! Not only is it fun in the moment, but it can also help bring you joy whenever you look at them. Put Yourself First As we previously mentioned, it’s important to allow yourself to acknowledge any feelings you might experience over the holidays, both positive and negative. Try to get comfortable with putting yourself and your needs first. No one grieves the same way, so it’s crucial to take care of yourself before you try to help others through their grief as well. Start by taking about 15-20 minutes a day to relax and see how much of a difference it makes! Here at Lee Funeral Homes, we’re family and we’ll treat you like family, too. We aim to provide a beautiful, lasting tribute for your loved one and are here to support you not only now, but in the future as well. For those located in Owings, MD or Clinton, MD, contact Lee Funeral Homes today. Instead of researching “funerals near me” or “funeral homes near me,” we’ll make sure to find ways to meet your needs as soon as we hear from you.

Dealing with the loss of a loved one can be extremely difficult, and for some, the holiday season might intensify these feelings of grief or loss. One way to navigate through these feelings is by choosing to honor your loved one in special ways throughout the season.  1. Light a Candle Consider getting a special candle for the season as a way to remember your loved one. It can be their favorite scent or one that simply reminds you of them. Certain days might be harder than others, and keeping this candle lit is not only a heartfelt way to honor them, but also a way to signify their presence both in your heart and mind. 2. Visit a Special Place Is there a certain place that reminds you of your loved one, or one that you two used to visit together? When the holiday season gets hectic, consider visiting this special place as a way to relieve stress and clear your mind. Throughout both the holiday season and everyday life, this place can remind you of memories the two of you shared. 3. Leave Them a Seat at The Table While you’re surrounded by family and friends for the holidays, saving your loved one a seat at the table is a special way to remember them and feel their presence. Whether you include a photo of them, place a candle at the table, or simply leave an empty chair, giving them a place setting is a special way to honor them moving forward. 4. Look Through Photos or Home Videos A great way to honor your loved one is to share memories of them throughout the years. By flipping through photos or watching home videos, you and your family can remember the good times and include your loved one in your holiday festivities moving forward. 5. Cook Their Favorite Dish As we all know, with the holiday season comes traditions, many of which involve food. A great way to honor your loved one is to prepare their favorite dish, whether it was one they loved making or eating. This is a great way to ensure their memory lives on with you and your family throughout these holiday traditions. 6. Give to a Cause in Honor of Them Consider donating a gift to a charity or organization that was important to your loved one. Making the donation in memory of them is an even more special way to honor them this season, while also partaking in a cause they care about. We understand the grief associated with losing a loved one, and we hope you are able to honor your loved one in a special way this holiday season. At the end of the day, what matters most is surrounding yourself with family and friends and remembering the times you shared with your loved one. Here at Lee Funeral Homes, our valued staff takes pride in caring for our families. Whether you’re looking for simple funeral services or accommodating funeral costs in Calvert County, MD, consider working with us . Contact us today to learn more!