Q. How can San Diego Memorial Society offer such cost-effective arrangements?

A. When immediate burial or cremation is desired, the considerable expenses of embalming and fancy caskets are avoided. The volunteer board of directors uses the the influence of the Society's large number of members to negotiate fair pricing with participating mortuaries. Expenses are also reduced because usually there is no viewing of remains and no funeral service. A memorial service without the body present is encouraged for its therapeutic value to family and friends. Memorial services can be held at a time and place convenient to survivors. These factors all combine to save many thousands of dollars while family and friends focus on meaningful experiences shared while mourning the loss of a loved one.

Q. Why does the Society charge a non-refundable fee for membership?

A. We are the only nonprofit consumer advocacy organization in San Diego County that offers access to simple, dignified arrangements for cremation and burial. The membership fee and voluntary donations are the only source of income for the Society. Contributions pay for outreach, printing, postage, and office expenses. After paying the non-refundable membership fee, no further dues or assessments are levied on members.

Q. What are "participating mortuaries?"

A. San Diego Memorial Society volunteers survey all of the mortuaries in San Diego County. A few of these mortuaries meet our criteria and are willing to provide services to our members at negotiated prices. Each participating mortuary is unique and they are located throughout the county, so members are able to match their needs to the mortuary that best meets those needs.

Q. Is embalming required by law?

A. Embalming is not necessary when the body is to be cremated or buried promptly and refrigeration is available. In rare circumstances embalming can be required. When possible, members are encouraged to forgo this expense, but there are times when viewing the body can have therapeutic value and restoration challenges may make embalming the right choice.

Q. How can I be sure my wishes will be followed?

A. When you join the Society you will be sent a Final Planning Booklet. This booklet contains a short but comprehensive set of questions about your final wishes. Your answers will assist you when making arrangements with a participating mortuary. The Society independently monitors the services provided to members by the mortuary and will assist if you or your family encounter a problem. The booklet can also benefit your loved ones by leaving them a document that unambiguously outlines the arrangements you want.

Q. There are a number of societies in San Diego County; how is yours different?

A. San Diego Memorial Society is the only nonprofit funeral society led by volunteers in San Diego County. Other organizations may use the word “society” as a part of their name; these firms are, however, for-profit businesses. The cost for cremation or burial available through San Diego Memorial Society is usually significantly less than prices offered by these profit-making “societies.” Since its founding in 1958, we have enrolled over 30,000 members; over 15,000 families have already been served. A little investigation will verify the advantage of joining San Diego Memorial Society.