Questions we don't ask, but want to know, about death

To prepare for this article (and one to follow in two weeks) we asked Ferry's Funeral Home and the Evergreen Memorial Chapel 25 questions we would like to get answered. They were both very generous with their time and gave detailed answers to each question. We are compiling the answers whenever possible, without identifying which establishment gave which answer. We are indebted to each business for their help.

1. If you die at home unexpectedly, what is the legal procedure?

A: Call 911, or local law enforcement who would then contact the County Coroner. If the Coroner is called first, he would then notify law enforcement. After the Coroner investigates, the body is released to the funeral home of the family's choice.

2. If you have been sick at home and then die at home what is the procedure?

A: The same principle as above unless the person is on Hospice. The Coroner still needs to be notified immediately that death has occurred. If the person has not seen a doctor within three days the Coroner must be notified for investigation.

3. When is an autopsy required?

A: If a contagious disease is suspected, or to show cause of death for the death certificate or insurance companies, or if circumstances surrounding the death are suspicious, but it is ordered only at the Coroner's discretion and is paid for by the county.

4. If an autopsy is not required, can the family request one to be done?

A: Next of kin can request an autopsy but will be required to pay for it. However the funeral home can assist in making arrangements.

5. Who has priority in making decisions about the funeral, services, and/or cremation options, etc.?

A: The deceased next of kin in order are: spouse, children, parents, siblings, next nearest surviving relative or aperson that was designated, by the deceased to act as next of kin. The wishes of the deceased may be honored such as those set up in a prearranged funeral or cremation plan, however the next of kin legally has the right to change those plans.

6. If cremation is chose, does there have to be a casket?

A: No casket is required for direct cremation or a cremation followed by a memorial service. A casket can be used for viewing purposes at the visitation or funeral services before the cremation occurs.

7. Where are cremations done for deaths in Vernon County?

A: Crematories are available in Peculiar, Joplin, Harrisonville, Webb City and Pittsburg.

8. Are the charges different if the service is held at a funeral home or at a church?

A: State law requires that the funeral home itemize costs on the funeral contract to protect the customer. There may be a cost difference in where you have the service (a graveside may be cheaper than a chapel service.) This can be answered by the funeral home of your choice.

9. What is the range of costs for a casket? How is it financed?

A: Approximately $300 up to $4000. This can be financed by a pre-paid plan or arrangements made at the time the services are given.

10. Can a person be buried in Vernon County Cemeteries without a vault? A: All cemeteries within the Nevada city limits require outer burial containers (grave liners and vaults). Some rural cemeteries allow burial without a vault.

11. Does each cemetery have different regulations about the number of remains or bodies that can be burried in one plot?

A: Only National Cemetery in Fort Scott allows two bodies to be buried in the same plot. Most Vernon County Cemeteries allow for more than one set of remains to be buried in a single cemetery space.

(To be continued on Oct. 12)