There Are Options When Choosing Jewish Cemeteries In New Jersey

By Rachael Gutierrez


After the loss of a loved one, people are often left with difficult choices to make. Thankfully, Jewish cemeteries in New Jersey provide options. The selection process can be daunting. This article is to help you explore your options.

Request itemized lists when getting quotes from different providers. Ask specific questions to find out what is included in their packages. Ask if the memorial and graveside services are all inclusive, or if the synagogue or chapel is included. If not, request a list of what services are included and how much additional services will cost.

The customs of your loved one should also be taken into consideration. Forethought should be taken regarding their beliefs. If they had more traditional beliefs you may prefer a more traditional service. If they were more non-traditional you may want to consider other options. Also, consider whether they were reformed, conservative or orthodox. Often, the funeral home will provide a Rabbi if you do not have one available.

Many providers will make arrangements to transport a body if the person passed while away from home. This will save you the additional stress of working with two funeral homes. Speak with your funeral director to make those arrangements.

Most funeral homes will offer your choice of burial, entombment or cremation. Also important to consider are gravestones, markers and monuments. When making those considerations it is important for you to keep shape, size, color, quality and design in mind.

Donations to charitable organizations must be made with consideration. Choose an organization which exemplifies the life of the person you are remembering. If you are uncertain of which charities to donate to, or if there is a particular charity that you wish to donate to, speak with the director of the funeral home. The director may have a list of charitable organizations.

If you must wait longer than 48 hours for the final disposition of the body, New Jersey law requires that the body must be embalmed. By choosing not to have the body embalmed, the final disposition must take place within 48 hours. If you choose for the final disposition to occur within the first 48 hours, you must make swift decisions regarding the arrangements.

Speak with family and friends regarding which facilities they have used in the past. Ask relevant questions. Find out if they were happy with the services that were provided. If they were unhappy, ask why.

Many of these businesses offer preplanning services. This seems to be an excellent option for many people. This option provides someone the ability to choose their services, based on their beliefs. It also allows for them to use the Rabbi they want. This option makes a difficult time much less stressful for the surviving family members and friends.

During this time, you may have to show some resolve. Take time and research the options that are available to you. Ask specific questions. Visit several Jewish cemeteries in New Jersey to see what they offer. Respect the person your loved one was. Base your decisions on what they would want, and what you can afford.




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