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FAQs

FAQs

We’ve provided a list of answers to questions we frequently receive regarding our services and other activities related to funerals. If you don't see the answer to your question here, feel free to contact us. We'd be happy to give you more information and clarify any of your concerns.

What do I do when a death occurs while out of town or away from home?

What do I do when a death occurs while out of town or away from home?

It’s important that you contact the local authorities first, and then make sure to give us a call as soon as possible. We will work with you to make the necessary arrangements to bring you and your loved one back home as quickly and easily as possible. Calling us will also help you to avoid duplication of efforts and fees.

What do funeral directors do?

What do funeral directors do?

As funeral directors we are licensed professionals who specializes in all aspects of funerals and related services. We provide support to the family, guide the arrangement of visitations and funeral ceremonies, prepare the deceased according to the family’s wishes, and ensure that everything goes according to plan. We also arrange for the transportation of the deceased throughout the process and assist families with certain legal or insurance-related paperwork. We are experienced at organizing all the services needed inlcuding coordination with cemeteries, places of worship, and clergy; along with development and placement of a death ntice or obituary to announce services.

Can I personalize my service?

Can I personalize my service?

Absolutely! Do not hesitate to make a request because you think it might be too "out there" - we are honored to work with you to create a service that truly reflects and celebrates your loved on'es individual life journey. Our staff has decades of experience getting to know families and working to help each family develop meaningful and memorable services.

Can I still have viewing and funeral services with cremation?

Can I still have viewing and funeral services with cremation?

Yes you can and we encourage you to do so to help aid in the processing of grief and the death of a loved one. Choosing cremation indicates how you wish to care for your loved ones disposition and does not exclude you from celebrating and honoring their life in any way. Whether you wish to arrange a funeral service before cremation, or wait and hold the service after the cremation, we are here to help you design a meaningful service to accompany the cremation.

Why have a viewing?

Why have a viewing?

A viewing — also known as a visitation, wake, or calling hours — can involve an open or closed casket, and is seen as a vital part of the grieving process. Having a loved one present often helps family and friends to accept the reality of the death, especially for those who may not have seen him or her in a while. The opportunity to come to terms with the death and say a final farewell is an important step on the road to healing.

Should I bring my children to the funeral service?

Should I bring my children to the funeral service?

You should use your judgment to determine whether your child is old enough to comprehend death, and whether attending the funeral will be meaningful to them. It is important for children to be allowed to express their grief and share in this important ritual. If you bring young children, explain beforehand what they will see and experience, and make sure that they know the importance of being on their best behavior. If your child becomes cranky or noisy, remove them promptly to avoid disturbing those who are mourning.

What is the purpose of embalming?

What is the purpose of embalming?

In many cases, if you choose to have a viewing before cremation, embalming may be required. Embalming is a process used to sanitize and temporarily preserve the body of a person who has passed away. It also can enhance the appearance of a person that has suffered damage from an accident or illness. By preserving the body through embalming, we can give you and your family time to make personalized and meaningful arrangements.

Is embalming required by law?

Is embalming required by law?

No. Except in rare circumstances, embalming is not required by law. However, most funeral homes do not permit public viewing without embalming. If you opt to not use embalming, usually we can offer a private viewing prior to cremation with minimal preparation excluding embalming.

What is a columbarium?

What is a columbarium?

A columbarium is a place for the interment of urns containing cremated remains. They’re often located in mausoleums, chapels, or memorial gardens, and contain numerous small compartments, or niches, designed to hold urns. There may be restrictions on the size of an urn in these locations.

What can I do to help the bereaved after services?

What can I do to help the bereaved after services?

The grieving process does not end with the funeral, and it will take time for the bereaved to heal. The family will need your support for months to come, so make sure to check in on a regular basis. Drop a note, make a phone call, and continue to invite them when you make social plans; Reach out to the family on special occasions, like birthdays or anniversaries, especially during the first year following their loss.

What should I say when I run into the bereaved in public?

What should I say when I run into the bereaved in public?

What you say depends upon whether or not you have already had contact with the bereaved. If you have already offered your condolences, or attended the visitation or service, simply greet the bereaved warmly and express an interest in their wellbeing. If this is your first meeting since the death and you are in a public setting, it may be best not to bring up the death directly. Instead, you can say something like, “I understand these must be difficult days for you,” and perhaps ask about when might be a good time to visit, or suggest that you meet for lunch.

Do you know about funeral funds made available by FEMA for COVID deaths?

Do you know about funeral funds made available by FEMA for COVID deaths?

There is a FEMA Funeral Assistance Program that we cannot be involved with directly.  Please click on the links below for more infomation:

FEMA Funeral Assistance Program

FEMA Funeral Assistance Information

Parking Announcement:
We are pleased to offer our families and visitors complimentary valet parking.
Please take advantage of this free amenity and refrain from parking in the surrounding neighborhood streets.



Francis J. Collins Funeral Home, Inc.
Phone: (301) 593-9500 | Fax: (301) 593-6551
500 University Blvd. West, Silver Spring, MD 20901

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