Spence Funeral Services Blog
How long does embalming preserve a body?
I am frequently asked, “How long does embalming preserve a body?” The answer is actually quite simple… it depends!
The preservation goal of modern embalming is to preserve the body adequately for ...
Friday, March 31, 2023
Can I be buried on my own property?
According to the legal counsel of the Pennsylvania Funeral Directors Association, Pennsylvania does not have laws restricting one from being buried on their own property. The legality of being buri...
Friday, March 24, 2023
What is the PA state law regarding funeral processions?
As one might expect, each state has its own laws regarding funeral processions. In Pennsylvania, each vehicle in the procession must have its headlights lit and emergency lights flashing as well as...
Tuesday, January 24, 2023
GoFundMe for Funeral Expenses
An unexpected loss can be devastating—not only emotionally, but also financially. Many people turn to GoFundMe and other platforms to raise money for funeral costs because they feel stuck. But usin...
Thursday, January 5, 2023
How should I dress for a funeral?
In the past, custom dictated that immediate family wore black clothing to the funeral of a deceased family member. While other relatives and friends didn’t necessarily need to be dressed in bl...
Thursday, December 29, 2022
Are vaults required in Pennsylvania?
Vaults or other types of outer burial containers are not required by federal or Pennsylvania state law to be placed in the ground prior to a casket being buried. However, most cemeteries in Lancast...
Friday, December 16, 2022
What sets William P. Spence Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc., apart from other funeral homes?
Providing services to families that are appropriate and meaningful at an affordable price are the hallmarks of our business. Part of our mission is to exceed the expectations of the families we ser...
Friday, December 9, 2022
Previous Posts
Do you provide traditional funeral services?
Do you provide traditional funeral services?
The answer is “Yes, we provide traditional funeral services.” Actually, we provide a range of funeral services from traditional services, includi...
Who is William P. Spence?
I was raised in rural Indiana County. Prior to becoming a funeral director, I was employed for 12 years as an underground coal miner by Rochester & Pittsburgh Coal Company. In 1993, I graduated...
FEMA Funeral Reimbursement to End September 30, 2025
Since FEMA began accepting applications for COVID-19 Funeral Assistance in April 2021, the agency has provided nearly $3 billion in assistance to more than 438,000 people, with an average award of ...
Why are people of the Jewish faith buried so soon after death?
There are various sects of Judaism, each with slightly different customs and practices. Jewish funeral customs are based on their belief and understanding of life, death, soul (neshama), and afterl...
What is the coroner and what do they do?
The coroner is a county government official who is elected by county residents by typical voting procedure. Although the office is usually held by physicians or, sometimes funeral directors, all ci...
What is meant by Green Burial?
Green burial is an alternative method of disposition that allows the remains of a person to return back to the earth naturally. Ideally, green burial minimizes the impact disposition has on the env...
What happens to money I pre-pay if you are no longer in business or you sell your business?
Nearly every person who pre-funds their funeral will ask this question, and rightfully so. It’s wise to know how your money will be invested and what safeguards are in place to protect it for its i...
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