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Planning a Funeral in Sarasota

Funerals in Sarasota may start with a visitation, which may feature an open casket where mourners may pay respects and say their final goodbyes to the deceased. Visitations also provide a time for mourners to visit with and provide support to one another.

Some families may elect to skip the visitation or keep it private rather than open to others. There is also usually a funeral or memorial service, which may include singing, readings, and loved ones speaking about the deceased. 

If the remains of the deceased are being interred, service attendees will then typically proceed to the location of the interment so that the remains can be laid to rest. The culture or faith of the deceased may impact funeral traditions and practices.

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Venice Memorial Gardens

Venice Memorial Gardens provides a beautiful, peaceful resting place with a variety of options to honor the deceased. Present are several gardens to accommodate the traditions of people of different faiths and backgrounds, including the Garden of Mercy (Catholic), Garden of Eden (Jewish), Ukrainian Garden, Garden of Honor (Veterans), and non-denominational Gardens.  

Contacting Venice Memorial Gardens to discuss planning arrangements, either in advance or for an immediate funeral, can be done here.

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Reasons to Plan Arrangements Now

The grief and other emotions experienced by family members after the death of a loved one can make planning a funeral even more difficult. Financial concerns may also add stress. Making funeral arrangements in advance can lessen this burden.

Visiting our Planning Center provides resources to make pre-planning arrangements for a funeral easier, including the option to schedule virtual and in-person meetings with our funeral specialists. These same resources can also be used for immediate, at-need planning.

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Immediate Planning

Immediate planning may include flower arrangements, finding settings, customizing a burial, planning cremation, planning a service, writing an obituary, headstone creation, accessing resources and planning for a veteran, transportation arrangements, assistance throughout the planning process, and more.

We are here to help with all of these needs. Free consultation with a funeral or cemetery specialist are available by phone, virtually, or in person.

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Free Funeral Planning Guide

Download our free burial & funeral planning guide for step by step guidance and a detailed checklist for funeral arrangements.

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Resources for Funeral Planning in Sarasota, Florida

To help planning individuals make informed decisions throughout the funeral planning process, Cemetary.com offers resources to help with making funeral plans and finding a funeral home or cemetery in the Sarasota area. We have guides to the various burial and entombment options available, as well as guides to the types of funeral homes and services available.To help those struggling with the cost of burial, we have a guide to financial assistance options. We also have glossaries of funeral terms and cemetery terms to provide clarity to those planning a funeral for the first time. We also provide access to experts that can guide you through the planning process.

Cemetery & Funeral Costs in Sarasota, Florida

The cost of a funeral varies based on location and the arrangements made. The average funeral in Sarasota costs $7,775. This includes the cost of a funeral director and staff, optional goods and services, fees, a casket and vault, and more. It does not include cemetery costs. Cemetery costs can add an additional $1,500 to $2,500. Pre-planning funerals, funeral funds, and life or burial insurance can help cover the cost of a funeral.

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Cremation & Memorial Services in Sarasota, Florida

As with burial, there are multiple options for how to handle services if a loved one is being cremated, and the right option is a deeply personal choice. One option is to conduct a traditional funeral service, with or without a viewing, with cremation occurring after the service. 

Alternatively, individuals may choose a memorial service, which is very similar to a funeral but occurs after the cremation, with or without the cremated remains present. If a memorial service with cremated ashes present is the chosen option, a decorative urn can be selected.

Whether a traditional funeral service or a memorial service is chosen, the service can be conducted at a place of worship, a funeral home, or another location such as a home.

 

 
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a funeral and a memorial service?

The difference between a memorial and a funeral is the presence of the body. At a funeral, the body is present and will be cremated or laid to rest after the service. A memorial honors the deceased without a body present, though ashes may be present.

Is burial or cremation better for me and my family?

Burial or cremation is a personal choice. If the deceased had no preference, either one is a valid choice. To help you choose between these options, you may consider cost, practicality, family preferences, and time sensitivity.

What if I am a veteran or the loved one I am planning for is a veteran?

You may be eligible for burial and cremation benefits through the VA, including burial in a national cemetery. Other organizations also offer financial assistance for burial and cremation services for veterans and their families. Contact your local VA to find out what is available for you.

Can I purchase multiple cemetery plots next to each other at the same time?

Many cemeteries allow families to purchase family plots. Family plots are multiple single plots adjacent to one another that can be purchased as a package.

What can I do to show my support and condolences in Sarasota, Florida?

There are many ways to show your support and condolences for someone after they have lost someone close to them. The right way for you will depend on your comfort and relationship with the grieving person. Common ways to express condolences include calling or texting, sending a card or flowers, and preparing food for the grieving.

Do I need a burial permit in Sarasota, Florida?

You do not need a burial permit in Sarasota, Florida. You do, however, need to register the death with your local or state vital records office within five days and prior to burial or cremation.

How much does cremation cost compared to a burial?

Fortunately, burial and cremation costs in Florida tend to be well below the national average. Still, cremation is significantly lower in cost compared to burial, making it a more economically efficient alternative to burial.

Can you be buried without a casket in Sarasota, Florida?

Florida law does not require a casket for burial or cremation. However, cemeteries may have their own policies regarding containers for burial.

How long will I be grieving the loss of my loved one?

The grieving process is different for everyone. A year from now, the loss may still feel very fresh, or it may feel like an old part of you. There are numerous grief counseling options available in the Sarasota area, as well as national options below:
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