Other Questions

When I come to the funeral home to pay my respects, what should I say to the grieving family?

Our best advice is to be yourself. By having a public service, the family has invited you to come and share this time with them. Feel free to relate any story, memory, or kind word as it relates to the deceased. The family will cherish your fond remembrances.

Would our school, fraternal, civic or any other interested group be able to visit the funeral home to tour the facility?

Parise Funeral Home offers tours to any interested group or individual at their request. This comprehensive inside look covers all aspects of the funeral home. Please call or visit for more information.

What can be done about missing documents?

In the event of a death, it is important that a family have quick access to the cemetery deed and military discharge papers, if any. We've always found it wise, therefore, to assure yourself that these papers are readily available.

If either has been misplaced, a duplicate record can be obtained. But we suggest that the time to apply for duplicates is now -- before they're needed. When you have them in hand, keep them in a secure location, and make sure your family knows where to find them. But remember a bank safety deposit box is not the best place for such documents, because access to it is not always assured.

What do I need to bring to the funeral home to make funeral arrangements?

Biographical information to be used for the death certificate and obituary. Social Security information, VA discharge papers if the deceased was a veteran and the cemetery deed. Any insurance policies with which the funeral home can assist the family. A recent photograph for possible use with the obituary and to assist the funeral home staff prepare for the services. Clothes, jewelry and other personal items for use during visitation, funeral service, burial or cremation.

I'm considering organ donation. Can I do this and still have funeral services for the benefit of our surviving family members?

You certainly can. The generous act of organ donation does not preclude whatever funeral services you and your family deems appropriate. When a death occurs, and organ donation is a consideration, early communication and cooperation between the family, funeral director and the medical profession is very important. Once that is accomplished, all needs can be met. The "gift of life" with organ donation does not have to interfere with services and will allow the surviving family, friends and community to experience the funeral.

We're prepared to help in all these matters and our positive approach and broad experience can be a big help with these concerns.

Should I take my child to the funeral home for a visitation or funeral service?

We are asked this question quite frequently and our answer is always that you need to ask your child if they are comfortable attending. Children will tell you what they are and are not comfortable with. Never decide for your child. If they are comfortable and want to attend, then let them do so. On the other hand, if they do not want to attend, then you should not force them.

We welcome and enjoy having children at the funeral home. If they decide they do not want to be in the visitation room with the deceased, then you can have them stay in one of our other sitting rooms.