Frequently Asked Questions

General

What is the difference between a memorial park and a traditional cemetery?
Memorial parks are a newer type of cemetery introduced about 75 years ago. They are parks and gardens where bronze memorials (instead of tombstones) are placed level with the ground to blend with the beauty of the landscape. They often feature expansive lawns with a variety of trees, flowering beds and gardens, as well as fountains, sculpture, or memorial architecture. A traditional cemetery has upright monuments, usually made of stone. Because many have functioned in their communities for over 100 years, traditional cemeteries typically contain a great deal of history, such as architecture, statuary and other art, as well as the personages interred there. They often feature lush landscaping and impressive greenery.
What options does Ferncliff offer besides ground burial?
Besides ground burial, we offer interment in lawn crypts or entombment in mausoleums. In addition, we have many choices for those who have selected cremation including the placement of cremated remains in a niche of a columbarium (either glass, marble, or bronze) or interment in an urn space.
Who can be buried at Ferncliff?
Ferncliff is a non-sectarian cemetery that is open to all religious faiths and all walks of life.
If I'm going to be cremated, should I have my remains placed in a columbarium or interred at the cemetery or is it better to just scatter the ashes?
The choice regarding the placement of cremated remains is very personal. Some people find it hard to simply pour the mortal remains of a loved one out onto the ground. There are many times local regulations that prohibit the scattering of ashes in a public place, and even if permitted, these public places may not be accessible in the future making it difficult for your survivors to visit at some time in the future. Having your remains placed or interred on a cemetery's grounds or in a mausoleum ensures that your family and loved ones will have a place to go to remember.
Is it important to have a place to visit?
Permanent memorialization creates a lasting memorial and place of pilgrimage for present and future generations to pay respect to your loved one. It serves to preserve your family's heritage. Memorialization is also the tangible realization of the personal emotional journey, uniquely yours, which you experience when someone you love dies. It becomes a meaningful and unique symbol that bonds you and your loved one forever, preserving memories, and providing a lasting expression of love and devotion. It provides a place of quietude for you to visit to gain peace of mind and heart.
Why do individuals choose mausoleum burial?
Crypt entombment has been practiced for centuries. They have been chosen by national governments around the world as an appropriate type of burial for honored individuals. Mausoleum crypts are permanent placements in a clean and dry setting. It also permits year round visitation due to the buildings climate control while also inviting guests to return due to its beauty.
Are there different types of crypts?
Ferncliff offers a number of types of crypts as listed below:
  • Single Crypt is designed for the entombment of one person lengthwise.
  • Side Companion is designed for the entombment of two persons placed next to each other lengthwise
  • End Companion is designed for the entombment of two persons in tandem
  • Single Couch is designed for the entombment of one person placed horizontally
  • Double Couch is designed for the entombment of two persons placed horizontally
  • Private Rooms is designed for the entombment of up to seven individuals in single couch crypts, the room is constructed of the finest marbles and designed to reflect the personal taste and faith of the owners.
When I buy cemetery property do I receive a deed just like when I purchase other types of real estate?
When you purchase cemetery property, you are in fact purchasing the burial right of interment in the lot, crypt, or niche that is purchased. The burial space actually remains the property and responsibility of the cemetery. You will receive a deed that acknowledges the burial right to the property once the contract is paid in full.
Do I need a funeral director for burial or cremation?
New York State Law requires a licensed funeral director perform services to prepare and transport the deceased.