Funerals in California

The CFDA promises to provide members of their organization – as well as consumers – with the most up-to-date information on the funeral profession in the State of California.  They believe it is important for their members to be aware of and use the latest technology to better serve clients. 

The CFDA offers its members continuing educational programs and seminars, the services of a full-time staff that continually researches industry issues and the newest information on legislative changes that affect the industry’s business practices. 

This organization offers consumers membership in its California Master Trust which helps families make funeral arrangements in advance of need.  A trust is defined as “an entity created to safeguard funds for a designated future use.”  And a Master Trust means that a number of trusts are under one administration.  The trustee for the CMT is the Comerica Bank and is authorized by the State of California. 

Funds for the trust are set aside based on the actual cost of the funeral and such funds belong to the consumer.  If the trust is revocable, the consumer may withdraw the funds and interest earned at any time.  Most funeral homes allow the consumer to either pay the trust in full or make payments over a specified time. 

Individual organizations offer unique services above and beyond those provided by the average funeral home.  One California company specializes in releasing white doves at funerals.  The birds are actually white homing pigeons with the appearance of white doves which are symbols of purity, peace and faithfulness.   A dove is handed to a relative or close friend to release which represents the soul of the deceased that is being honored at the services.   When this dove is released, it flies home as trained.  The rest of the doves are then released and follow the first dove home which is symbolic of the return home of the soul. 

Another option offered at funerals in California is bagpipe music.  The sound of bagpipes usually touches family members and friends at funeral ceremonies very deeply and  brings up strong emotions which often allows a sense of closure.  One of the most meaningful tunes requested is the spiritual sounds of “Amazing Grace”.