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When Families Disagree About Funeral Decisions

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 17:26:55 GMT

When someone dies, grief rarely arrives quietly. It brings sadness, shock, regret, love — and sometimes conflict.

Even the closest families can find themselves divided when it comes to funeral decisions. Burial or cremation. Traditional service or private gathering. Open casket or closed. Where to hold the service. Who speaks. Who decides.

These disagreements are more common than people realize. And they are not a sign of a “bad” family. They are a sign of grief.

Why Conflict Happens

Grief activates more than sadness — it activates history.

Old family roles resurface. The responsible oldest child takes charge. The peacemaker tries to smooth tensions. The sibling who lives out of town feels out of control. A divorced spouse may feel excluded. A new spouse may feel protective.

Sometimes conflict reflects deeper questions:

What would Mom have wanted?
Who has the right to decide?
Are we planning for the deceased, or for ourselves?

Underneath nearly every disagreement is something tender: love, guilt, unfinished conversations, or fear of “getting it wrong.”

The Legal Reality (and the Emotional One)

In Louisiana, as in most states, there is a legal next-of-kin hierarchy that determines who has authority to make final arrangements.

Legal spouse
All living children
Parents
Siblings

This structure provides clarity when necessary. But legality does not always resolve emotion.

Even when one person has the legal right to decide, wise families often pause to invite input. A funeral is not simply a transaction: it is a communal ritual. When possible, shared participation can reduce long-term resentment.

Common Areas of Disagreement

Some of the most frequent tensions include:

Burial vs. Cremation
Religious vs. Secular Services
Budget Differences
Inclusion (or exclusion) of certain family members

Often, what appears to be a practical disagreement is actually a difference in how each person is grieving.

One sibling may want a large visitation because they need community support. Another may want privacy because they feel emotionally overwhelmed. Neither is wrong.

A Gentle Framework for Moving Forward

When disagreements arise, consider asking:

Did the person leave instructions?
Written wishes provide tremendous clarity and peace to the family members left to make final arrangements. Moreover, funding the final arrangements is preferred (more information on easily paying for your funeral is available; call 337-706-8941)
What mattered most to them in life?
Their values often guide the tone of their farewell.
What decision will we feel most at peace with five years from now?
Can we create space for more than one expression of grief?
Sometimes compromise looks like having both a small family gathering and a larger public memorial.

When families slow down enough to listen, common ground is often found.

When the Conflict Is Deeper

Occasionally, tension is longstanding. Estrangement, remarriage, addiction history, blended families — these dynamics can complicate funeral planning.

In those moments, it can help to remember:

A funeral does not resolve a lifetime of pain.
But it can prevent new wounds from forming.

If emotions begin to escalate, inviting a neutral third party — whether a clergy member, trusted family friend, or experienced funeral director — can help refocus the conversation on shared purpose.

The Role of the Funeral Director

One of the quiet roles of a funeral director is facilitator.

We are not only coordinating logistics; we are often helping families navigate complex dynamics with steadiness and care. Sometimes that means asking clarifying questions. Sometimes it means reminding everyone of the common goal: honoring a life well lived.

At its best, a funeral brings people back to what unites them — love for the person who has died.

Planning Ahead Prevents Conflict

One of the greatest gifts a person can give their family is clarity.

Pre-planning — whether through written instructions, a conversation, or formal arrangements — removes guesswork during an emotionally fragile time. It reduces the likelihood of conflict and increases the likelihood of peace.

When wishes are known, families can focus on grieving rather than debating.

A Final Thought

Disagreement during funeral planning is not a failure. It is often a reflection of deep attachment. It's often said that g rief is just love that has nowhere to go. When families approach one another with curiosity instead of certainty, and compassion instead of control, even difficult decisions can become meaningful ones. And in the end, what most families remember is not the specific choice between burial or cremation — but whether they felt respected, heard, and united in honoring someone they loved.

If your family is facing difficult decisions, know that you are not alone. Thoughtful guidance can make even the hardest conversations gentler.

Understanding the Cremation Process

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 20:07:52 GMT

What you need to know about cremation

Understanding the Cremation Process: What You Need to Know

Cremation is an increasingly chosen option for final disposition, yet many people are unfamiliar with what the process actually entails. Whether you’re considering it for yourself or a loved one, understanding the steps involved can bring clarity and peace of mind.

The cremation process begins with proper authorization. Funeral homes and crematories require legal paperwork and consent from the next of kin before proceeding. Once authorized, the deceased is placed in a cremation container, which is typically made of combustible materials such as wood or cardboard.

Prior to cremation, the individual is identified according to strict protocols, ensuring the integrity of the process. Any medical devices, such as pacemakers, which could pose safety hazards, are removed. Jewelry and other personal items are typically taken off beforehand, unless specified otherwise by the family.

The cremation itself takes place in a specially designed chamber, called a cremator, which reaches temperatures between 1,400 and 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. The intense heat reduces the body to bone fragments over a period of approximately two to three hours. These fragments are then carefully processed into a fine, sand-like consistency known as cremated remains or ashes.

After the cremation, the ashes are placed in a temporary container or an urn chosen by the family. At this point, families have several options for memorialization. Some choose to scatter the ashes in a meaningful location, while others prefer burial in a cemetery, placement in a columbarium, or keeping the urn in their home. Personalized memorial jewelry or keepsakes are also popular choices for honoring a loved one’s memory.

Cremation offers flexibility in how one is remembered, and understanding the process can help in making informed, thoughtful decisions. Whether for religious, environmental, or personal reasons, cremation is a dignified choice that allows families to commemorate their loved ones in meaningful ways.

The Meaning of Flowers in Funerals: A Tribute Through Blooms

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 17:38:07 GMT

The History and Cultural Significance of Sending Sympathy Flowers

Flowers have long been a symbol of life, love, and remembrance. At funerals, they hold special significance, offering comfort, expressing emotions, and honoring the life of the deceased. Each type of flower chosen for a funeral carries its own unique meaning, adding depth and sentiment to the farewell.

The tradition of sending flowers as a sympathy gift dates back centuries and spans various cultures. In ancient times, flowers were used at funerals to mask the odor of the body, but over time, their role evolved into one of symbolic comfort and support. In Victorian England, flowers were sent as a discreet way to communicate emotions that were often too difficult to express openly. Today, this practice continues around the world as a way to offer condolences, express solidarity, and provide a source of comfort to grieving families. The act of sending sympathy flowers serves not only as a gesture of respect but also as a way of offering emotional support, showing that the family is in the sender's thoughts during a difficult time.

Lilies: Purity and Peace

Lilies are one of the most traditional flowers seen at funerals. They represent the restored innocence of the soul of the departed. White lilies, in particular, symbolize purity and peace, offering a message of hope and serenity to grieving families.

Roses: Love and Respect

Roses are often used to convey love, making them a fitting tribute in funeral arrangements. Red roses symbolize deep love and respect, while white roses stand for purity and reverence. Yellow roses are sometimes chosen to signify strong friendship and affection, showing the bonds that transcend even death.

Carnations: Remembrance and Admiration

Carnations are another popular flower at funerals. Their durability makes them a lasting tribute to the memory of the deceased. Red carnations express admiration, pink carnations are a symbol of remembrance, and white carnations represent pure love and innocence.

Chrysanthemums: Honor and Farewell

In many cultures, chrysanthemums are specifically associated with death and funerals. In Europe, they symbolize grief and are often used to honor the deceased. In Asia, chrysanthemums signify rebirth and are a positive symbol of saying farewell to the physical presence while recognizing the soul’s journey.

Orchids: Eternal Love

Orchids are less traditional but have become increasingly popular in funeral arrangements. They symbolize eternal love and offer a lasting message of beauty and strength. White and pink orchids, in particular, are often chosen to express sympathy and remembrance.

Not only the variety of flower can provoke emotional symbolism, but the colors of flowers used in funeral arrangements carry specific meanings and can convey different emotions or messages as well. Here's a brief guide to what the most common flower colors represent in funeral settings:

White: Purity and Peace

White flowers are often used in funeral arrangements as they symbolize purity, innocence, and peace. They are commonly associated with reverence and humility, making them a fitting choice for honoring the memory of the deceased in a calm and respectful way.

Red: Love and Grief

Red flowers, especially red roses, are a symbol of deep love, respect, and admiration. They can also represent the intense grief felt by those mourning the loss. Red is a powerful color that reflects the strong emotional bonds between the deceased and their loved ones.

Pink: Grace and Sympathy

Pink flowers are softer and symbolize grace, compassion, and sympathy. They are often used to convey gentler emotions, such as fondness and admiration, making them a suitable choice for memorials where the tone is more reflective or celebratory of life.

Yellow: Friendship and Remembrance

Yellow flowers can represent strong bonds of friendship, warmth, and remembrance. While they are less traditional in funeral settings, they are sometimes chosen to honor a life filled with joy and positivity, or to reflect the deceased's bright personality.

Purple: Dignity and Respect

Purple flowers are often associated with dignity, respect, and spiritual awareness. They can symbolize a tribute to someone who led a life of honor and wisdom. Purple is also considered a regal color, making it fitting for paying tribute to an admired figure.

Blue: Peace and Comfort

Blue flowers are less common in funeral arrangements but are sometimes used to convey feelings of peace, calm, and comfort. Blue represents serenity and can be a soothing presence in memorial services, especially for grieving families.

Orange: Enthusiasm and Celebration

Orange flowers may be used in more modern or celebratory funeral services, symbolizing enthusiasm, passion, and a zest for life. Though less traditional, they can serve as a bright tribute to someone who lived their life with energy and joy.

The color of flowers in a funeral arrangement can provide an additional layer of meaning, making them a personal and thoughtful tribute to the life being honored.

Each flower used in a funeral arrangement brings its own meaning, whether it’s to express love, admiration, or hope. Selecting the right flowers for a service not only offers beauty but also conveys heartfelt emotions, providing comfort to those grieving while paying tribute to the life that was lost. When planning a funeral, consider the symbolism behind the flowers as a meaningful way to honor your loved one.

How Writing Thank You Cards Can Help You Heal After Loss

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 18:29:31 GMT

The act of writing thank you cards is a powerful gesture that can have a significant impact on both the sender and receiver. Not only is it considered good manners, but in the midst of grief, it's important not to overlook the power of gratitude and the impact that a simple thank you note can have.

Sending thank you notes after a funeral is a thoughtful and respectful gesture that can provide comfort and closure to both the bereaved and those who attended the service. It's a way to express gratitude for the support and kindness shown during a difficult time, and to acknowledge the contributions and memories of the loved one who has passed. Typically thank you notes are sent to all who participated in the funeral, including clergy, pallbearers, and lectors; and to those people who sent flowers, food, or charitable contributions in memory of your loved one.

In addition to being a meaningful way to show appreciation, thank you notes can also serve as a way to stay connected with family and friends after the funeral. By taking the time to write a personal message, you can strengthen relationships and build a sense of community during a time of grieving.

When writing a thank you note after a funeral, it's important to keep a few things in mind. First, be sincere and heartfelt in your message, expressing your gratitude in a way that feels authentic and true to your emotions. Second, be specific and personal in your note, referencing specific acts of kindness or words of comfort that were particularly meaningful to you. And finally, be timely in your response, sending your note within a few weeks of the funeral to ensure that it is received and appreciated.

Overall, sending thank you notes after a funeral is a simple yet powerful way to show gratitude and compassion during a difficult time. By taking the time to express your appreciation, you can honor the memory of your loved one and strengthen the bonds of friendship and family that support you through life's challenges.

Here are some examples of sentiments expressed:

"Please accept our sincere thanks for (the card, flowers, etc.) you sent in memory of my mother. It is only the generosity of good friends like you that has gotten us through this very difficult time. Thank you

Respectfully yours,"

"I know how much (the deceased) enjoyed spending time with you volunteering at (name of charity). Your thoughtful contribution to (name of charity) certainly honors her memory. Thank you for supporting such a wonderful organization in her name.

With sincere appreciation,"

"Your love and support during this difficult time has made the seemingly unbearable, bearable. Thank you for the gorgeous white floral stand you sent to the funeral home. I know that (deceased) would have loved them. I appreciate your thoughtfulness.

Warmly,"

"On behalf of the entire family, please accept our appreciation for the (food items) sent to the visitation at the funeral home. We all needed the nourishment and comfort it provided. It was all so delicious, and we are deeply grateful for your kindness.

Sincerely,"

----

In closing, it is important to remember that there is no deadline on when to send a thank you card. While it may seem like another task that must be completed immediately, taking the time to sincerely write out your gratitude to friends and neighbors will help move you along in your grief journey much more than rushing through this opportunity for thoughtful communication.

Eco-Conscious Funerals in 2023

Sat, 22 Apr 2023 02:46:03 GMT

Meaningful choices with less environmental consequences

Katrina Spade, founder and CEO of Recompose, poses in front of an array of composting vessels at Recompose Seattle on October 06, 2022 in Seattle, Washington. Recompose is a green funeral home specializing in human composting, also known as natural organic reduction, terramation, or recomposition.. (Photo by Mat Hayward/Getty Images for Recompose)

Happy Earth Day! The very first Earth Day was celebrated in America on April 22, 1970, and it sparked an environmental movement and led to the creation of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) later that year. Since then, it has become a worldwide day of action, having reached over one billion participants each year, touching all parts of the globe and every industry in America, including the deathcare industry.

Funeral trends have been shifting in a more ecologically-friendly direction over the past decade. Rising cremation rates point to this fact (although when asked, most people will cite “financial motives” as the number one reason cremation was chosen as the final disposition method.) If a person is environmentally conscious, the thought of taking up ground space, and putting chemicals/plastics underground deters them from traditional burial.

These are valid concerns from clients. It seems the industry has taken these concerns to heart, and recently we’ve seen many new products and services come out for those wanting their last effects left on this planet to be less harmful. Some of them are:

Natural Burials

According to the Green Burial Council (GBC), the gold standard for environmental causes in the industry, certified natural burials by funeral homes must meet these standards:

1. Offer the decedent’s family the option of a public viewing without embalming, or use only Green Burial Council-approved post-mortem fluids.

2. Carry at least three GBC-approved or rated burial containers, such as cotton shrouds and caskets made of biodegradable materials such as wicker

3. Accommodate families choosing to conduct home vigils prior to viewing on site without embalming, or use only GBC-approved post-mortem fluids.

4. Offer sanitation and temporary preservation of a decedent using only noninvasive techniques and materials.

Currently there are 35 states that have GBC certified funeral homes that offer natural burials. Unfortunately, a combination of state laws for funeral homes and cemeteries, combined with our low elevation level prohibit natural burials from taking place in Louisiana.

Natural Organic Reduction (NOR)

Natural Organic Reduction, also called “Terramation”, takes what would occur in nature (decomposition), and through controlled environmental conditions, speeds up the process.

Here’s how it works:

The unembalmed body is sealed in a holding vessel lined with wood chips, grasses, and flowers. The naturally occurring microbes in our bodies and on our skin are given just the right amounts moisture and temperature to flourish over the course of about six weeks. Because of these ideal conditions, the organic processes will result in nutrient dense soil, ready to return to the forest floor or gardens in just a few months.

Currently NOR is legally available in six states: Washington, Oregon, Colorado, California, Vermont and New York. In 2023, Massachusetts, Maryland, and Illinois legislators introduced bills on their state floors for consideration.

Here are three NOR companies based in the United States. Their websites are very helpful should you be interested in more information on a true “return to the earth” final disposition method. Click on the links below to view detailed information.

Return Home

Recompose

Natural Burial

Water Cremation

Water cremation, or “Aquamation”, is the disposition process of alkaline hydrolysis that uses lye and heat to dispose of the body. Similar to fire cremation, all that is left after the process is the minerals from a person’s bones.

Alkaline hydrolysis has been around for decades, being used as a means to dispose of human remains from medical schools and animals from research labs. It is still fairly new to the funeral industry, but received international attention when Archbishop Desmond Tutu chose water cremation after his death on December 26, 2021.

Proponents of the process argue that water cremation is more energy-efficient, cleaner and better for the environment, as it emits 35% less greenhouse gas than fire cremation. It’s currently legal in 23 states; Louisiana is not one of them.

Other innovations still in the testing phase are the tree pod burials, created by Italians Francesco D’Angelo and Adriano Del Ferro. These conceptual designs, now known as Capsula Mundi, made a huge splash on social media around 2018. People emotionally connected to the “circle of life” idea the inventors promoted, and embraced the thought of giving back to the Earth and becoming a tree. While it’s still a few years away, the company has created a biodegradable urn that functions similarly to the burial pod, but with cremated remains.

These green solutions are transforming historic rituals of commemoration for those who seek earth-conscious end of life services. These alternative funerals are becoming more popular as a way to honor our loved ones and provide a better environment for future generations. Louisiana should not delay in embracing these practices.

What to Wear to a Funeral: A Guide

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 19:25:45 GMT

Funerals are a time to pay respects to the deceased and their family.Over the years societal norms on funeral attire have shifted to more casual garments. While It’s not uncommon to see blue jeans and sandals, funeral attendees should consider the message their clothing choices send. Let’s discuss what appropriate funeral attire looks like so you can honor the deceased and their family, and not draw attention away from the true reason of the gathering.

Length of Clothing Matters

Ladies: More so than the color of the garment, length still matters when it comes to funeral attire. Mini skirts and low-cut tops should be left in the closet for other social events. Tops that cover arms are preferred, and should not be too tight fitting. If you want to wear something more creative than a basic dress or pantsuit, consider a blouse with an ankle-length skirt or an ankle-length maxi dress instead of shorts or capris. The key here is to keep it modest and appropriate for all audiences, regardless of how casual the deceased may have been in life.

Rethink Denim

Denim jeans have come a long way from the everyday work pants, darker-washed denim especially. No matter how much they cost, ripped jeans, (whether at the thigh, knee, or hem) should be reconsidered, as should skinny jeans. Just because something is expensive does not mean it is respectful. If you must wear denim, go for a dark color that shows no wear in the knees or back pockets, and is not fraying at the hem.

A better alternative would be to opt for dress pants, khakis, nice leggings, or even a skirt depending on your comfort level and what feel appropriate for your body type. It's also important to remember that any colors worn should be muted colors - nothing bright or flashy - as this would distract from the somber atmosphere at the service. Black is customary, but other neutral colors such as navy, gray, brown and dark green are also quite nice.

Accessories Should Be Low Key As Well

Your jewelry should also be kept simple when attending funerals. Stick with small pieces such as stud earrings, small pendants on delicate chains, classic watches, etc., to avoid drawing attention away from what really matters during this time—being respectful to yourself and those around you while honoring the memory of the deceased person in attendance. Shoes should also be conservative – close-toed pumps or flats are always acceptable choices. Sandals are generally discouraged unless they are very formal sandals made of leather rather than plastic or rubber materials. This goes for men as well – dress shoes are always best as sneakers can look too casual for a funeral setting.

Funerals are times of reflection and respect for both ourselves and those who have passed away before us. Selecting an outfit in dark colors that aren't too revealing—and if possible opt for something made from natural fabrics like cotton over synthetic ones—will help make sure you look dignified while paying your respects at a funeral service. Dressing appropriately for funerals can be tricky but following these guidelines will help ensure you look respectable while showing respect to the family and the deceased.

New Year's Resolution: Get My Final Affairs In Order

cecile@waltersfh.com (Cecile Walters Trotter) — Mon, 02 Jan 2023 17:58:29 GMT

Do this for your family right now!

New Year's Eve: a time of reflection, wistfulness, and gratitude for days passed and lessons learned.

New Year's Day: a time of resolution-setting, focused determination that this year is gonna be different than last year, and you will lose those extra pounds, eat better, spend less. Unfortunately for our self-esteem, more than 80% break their promises to themselves by the end of February.

Could we just NOT this year? Give up the huge expectations and false hopes of making these sweeping changes in our lives, breaking deeply ingrained habits with no plan in place to do so? The pressure we collectively put on ourselves to "be our best self" starting on Jan. 1 is soul-crushing, and quite frankly, a recipe for failure.

Studies show that making smaller, more attainable goals and achieving them creates the sense of accomplishment we need to enjoy success in the bigger goals.

Start small with easily accomplished goals, like getting your final wishes documented for your family. Having taken part in thousands of funeral arrangement conferences, I can say without a single doubt, giving your family some indication of your preferences is simply the kindest, final act of love you can bestow upon your loved ones. Relieving their burden of making decisions at a time of such emotional upheaval is a profound act of love, (especially if your final arrangements are pre-funded) and a task that can be mostly completed right here through our website. While the decisions require some thought, our Online Pre-Planning Form takes less than 10 minutes to fill out. (click here to view the form) . Once submitted, I will open a preneed folder for you, and call to discuss pricing for the options you chose. BOOM! Simple as that.

Take this accomplished goal of getting your final arrangements in order and use it to catapult you to bigger accomplishments during the year, like increasing your savings, or taking up a new hobby (might I suggest pickleball?) Stay the course; 2023 could be your best year yet!

If you'd prefer to have us give you a call to set up an appointment to discuss your options, please fill out the form below and we'll be with you shortly.

Holiday Blues: Grief Around the Corner

cecile@waltersfh.com (Cecile Walters Trotter) — Thu, 01 Dec 2022 18:00:04 GMT

What to say to a friend in mourning

Finding the right words to connect to friends and family who are mourning is always tougher around the holidays. Most people have a genuine desire to help, but aren’t sure of what is helpful. It’s easy to feel awkward and uncomfortable about approaching the subject at all, and to give up contacting them until after the holidays. I’m here to tell you: don’t give up!

Don’t wait for the “perfect” time to call; the “perfect” card to sum up your feelings in a most clever way. Your message to them doesn’t have to be more than “I’m sitting in traffic while on my way to the grocery store and am thinking about you. Do you need me to pick anything up for you?” A simple call like this let’s the person know you care about them in their time of mourning, and opens the door for more meaningful connection.

The most common reason I hear for people shying away from reaching out is finding the right words to say without sounding trite or dismissive. While there are some better ways to word things, people in grief are looking to reconnect, get back to some sense of normalcy. They need their friends and family to help get them there. So, best bet is to be real with them. Don’t treat them like pariah.

Here’s a list of specific examples that can be used to open up a conversation*:

Instead of… “I’m sorry” ( This can sound like you are apologizing instead of expressing sorrow. ) Say … “I’m sad to hear that…”

Instead of… “I know how you feel.” (Even if you have experienced a loss or a difficult time, each person’s experience is unique.) Say… “If you want to talk about what happened, I’m here to listen.”

Instead of… “You shouldn’t feel that way.” (Feelings aren’t right or wrong and can’t be simply turned off.) Say… “I can sit with you even if you don’t feel like talking.”

Instead of… Clichés like “Time heals all wounds” or “You’ll be okay.” (These can seem like you are dismissing your friend’s feelings.) Say… “I can’t imagine how hard this must be for you.”

Instead of… “It’s time to put it behind you.” (We grieve because we love, so grief becomes a lifelong journey.) Say… “I’m not sure what to say, but I’m here if you need a friend.”

In closing, don’t be afraid of the grief! This is an emotional time. Trying to stifle or evade an emotional onslaught (whether that be crying or laughing or feeling angry) will come off feeling crusty and fake. Investing time and energy into your friendships will be worth the momentary discomfort.

*compiled by Highmark Caring Place

Children's Grief Awareness Day

cecile@waltersfh.com (Cecile Walters Trotter) — Tue, 15 Nov 2022 18:25:28 GMT

Hope for Grieving Children

Mourning the death of a loved one is never an easy process, and even more difficult for children. Bereaved youth are more likely to be expelled from school or repeat a grade, have difficulty concentrating, and most often experience a decrease in academic performance. They become socially withdrawn, and lose interest in activities which they used to love. But research shows that the more caregivers and other family members openly discuss the person and their loss, the more validated and “seen” these youngsters feel in their grief, which translates into happier and better adjusted kids.

But not so fast: on average children will mourn their loss for six or more years, much longer than the six or so months adults typically afford them. In my time volunteering at Healing House, I’ve learned the critical importance of support in these years following a death. The grief journey for each child could look different on different days: sometimes children may want to be left alone; sometimes they’ll become hyper-attached and clingy, or other days they'll withdraw or they’ll act out. What's most important for their wellbeing is that they feel supported and loved no matter how their grief is presenting itself.

Regardless of their behavior on any given day, these communication tips remain constant, and will help you navigate grief with them.

Listen to them if they want to talk about the person who died. Yes, it will be uncomfortable, but fight the urge to rush to change the subject. Don’t try to fix the situation, or “look on the bright side.” Just listen.
Sit with them even if they don’t feel like talking. Your presence will give comfort where words cannot.
Text them to let them know you’re thinking about them. Ask how you can be helpful to them today.
Keep some things the same. When everything feels upside down, consistency and routine feel warm and welcome. Ice cream after school to celebrate good grades, or watching a movie together on rainy days will tether young minds to the reality that not everything has changed.

If you are in the Acadiana area, Healing House is an incredible resource for families experiencing loss. The non-profit hosts children and caregiver support groups in their facilities on Beadle Rd., and also brings sessions to area schools. While they do not provide therapy or counseling sessions, the support groups do provide kids with a safe place for them to express their feelings, and meet other kids that are going through the same thing. Visit their website for more information: www.healing-house.org

Hospice Appreciation Month

cecile@waltersfh.com (Cecile Walters Trotter) — Thu, 03 Nov 2022 19:05:50 GMT

National Hospice & Pallative Care Month celebrated with theme, "It's About How You Live"

November is traditionally known as the month of giving thanks and showing gratitude, and I can't think of people more deserving than hospice employees. From social workers to nurses; chaplains to administrative staff; it takes a special person to choose hospice and palliative care as their career. Some of the characteristics I think of when considering those employed by hospice are patience, kindness, and compassion. Acadiana is truly blessed to have numerous people I can think of that exemplify these qualities working in hospice care.

In the funeral profession we work closely with hospice and palliative care professionals, and are well versed in their industry's terminology. However, many people ask us, "What's the difference?" To clear up confusion and to answer some other FAQs, I've spoken to some of the experts in Acadiana to answer some basic questions.

Difference between hospice and palliative care:

Palliative care is for patients throughout all stages of illness to improve their quality of life and comfort. Patients can still be on curative care, meaning they are still receiving treatment to cure the illness, i.e. chemotherapy, or dialysis. Hospice care is the next step in palliative care, when the patient is no longer receiving curative care, and has less than six months to live.

No, hospice is not a place.

While some physical places in Lafayette offer in-patient hospice services (The Carpenter House and Calcutta House), the term "hospice" does not describe a location but rather a high level of care for people with six months or less to live. The quality of care received allows patients and their families to focus on living as fully as possible in the time they have left.

The four goals of hospice are:

Caring for the whole person, not just treating the disease and its symptoms
Addressing the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of the patient
Supporting the family and caregivers
Providing the best quality of life for whatever time remains

Is hospice covered under Medicare/Medicaid?

Yes, both Medicare and Medicaid has hospice care benefits, which is not to say that hospice care is free. There are associated costs, such as co-pays for prescriptions, and equipment or supplies.

Walters Funeral Home opens The Gift Shop at Walters

cecile@waltersfh.com (Cecile Walters Trotter) — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 19:38:22 GMT

Expertly curated gifts for those in mourning

Walters Funeral Home has opened a small gift shop as an alternative for mourners to give thoughtful, personalized gifts and support, at a time when personal and community connections may have changed due to the pandemic.

"In the beginning of the pandemic, watching as families had to pick and choose who could attend the funerals; it was a heart-wrenching experience,” said Cecile Walters Trotter, founder of the Gift Shop at Walters. “I think that helpless feeling led people to want to connect and show their care in new and different ways that were more meaningful and intentional. It made us wonder if there was a need for alternative sympathy gift options.”

Walters Trotter spent several months curating specialty gift items that aid in the healing process and help move the recipient along in their grief journey to come to terms with their loss. There are gifts that help the bereaved create a ritual for mourning—such as tea, candles, journals, and other self-care items. The candles are made in collaboration with Nouvelle Candle Co. out of St. Francisville, and fragrances were specifically selected for scents that inspire, such as rebirth, healing, peace, and hope.

The Shop also offers books on grief and specific to different types of loss.

“A lot of research has been done on the stages of grief, and how mourners have to go through this journey to find a sense of peace,” explained Walters Trotter. “Rituals—whether meditative, journaling, exercise, etc.—sets up a specific time and place that we can slow down to contemplate and express our grief. We are here, in this time, to do that work; whether it be making tea and journaling, taking a bath, lighting a candle and saying prayers. It’s about finding space to recognize the death, reorganize your life, and move on in a healthy way.”

The Gift Shop at Walters also offers personalized items as tokens of remembrance, such as laminated prayer cards and obituaries, personalized candles, and video ‘books’—a 5” x 7” screen in a soft cover book that automatically plays a slide show of photos when the cover is opened.

For those who want to give an assortment of sympathy gifts, ready-made baskets are thoughtfully put together for a range of budgets .

“Our hope is that this selection of items allows the giver to give a more meaningful, sincere and sensitive gift that is both tasteful and useful,” she said. “Share your sympathies, encourage self-care, and give comfort to those in mourning.”

View some of our products below: