Home Funeral Frequently Asked Questions

Colorful Coffins is dedicated to helping families and friends make the best choices when planning the rites surrounding the passing of a loved one. By organizing a personal memorial, the family and friends are able to fully participate in the care of the deceased and come together to grieve. This will begin the healing process. Generations before us have cared for their own at home. A family directed farewell can affirm that death is a part of life, and can be a transforming, empowering, and memorable experience for all involved.

Are home funerals legal in California?
Yes. Home funerals are not a new concept. Just 100 years ago, home funerals were common events.

Can I have a funeral in my home?
Yes. This is the quintessential act of love. Having a home funeral allows you to extend personal care to a loved one. It also allows the deceased to remain with those who mattered most during their life. Consequently, the family is privileged to share in the mystery of the ultimate act of living -- death.

Are there legal requirements involved in having a home funeral?
A death certificate, issued by the attending physician or coroner is necessary. A permit for disposition is also necessary before burial or cremation can occur. Contact your home funeral consultant or your local coroner's office for further information.

What happens if my loved one dies in a hospital?
If your loved one dies in a hospital you are perfectly within your rights to take the body home. You may transport the deceased in your private vehicle. Although you may want to, it is not necessary to contact a funeral home or hire an ambulance or hearse.

What is a home funeral?
A home funeral is a celebration of a life. You may organize the celebration to meet the requests of the deceased or the needs of the immediate family. It can be elaborate or simple. A separate room where the deceased lies in honor is always appropriate. Candles, flowers, scented oils, a colorful coffin - decorated by friends and family, or a willow coffin, spoken eulogies, spiritual readings, and recorded or live music can be an important part of the celebration. Many families opt to surround the deceased loved one with items that were an important part of their life.

Must the deceased loved one be embalmed?
No. Unless the body is shipped across state lines, the deceased need not be embalmed. During a home funeral commercially available dry ice is used to preserve the body for up to 3 days. Check your local phone directory for availability of dry ice.

What does caring for the deceased entail?
Preparing a body for the grave is an act of loving kindness steeped in ancient tradition. Bathing the body, washing hair, dressing, and applying makeup are all parts of the process of preparing the deceased for his/her celebration. Your home funeral consultant has detailed information on recommended procedures for each of these activities.

What about disposition?
Prior arrangements with the cemetary or crematory are advised. Your home funeral consultant or a commercial funeral home can be hired to transport the deceased to the cemetory or cremetory. Or, the deceased may be transported in any personal or family vehicle that is suitable.

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