874580-roberts-funeral-home

Choosing Cremation Doesn't Mean Skipping the Service

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 19:59:59 GMT

Many people believe that choosing cremation means there will be no viewing or funeral service. This is a common misunderstanding. Cremation is simply a final step—it does not prevent families from gathering, remembering, and honoring a loved one through meaningful services beforehand.

Why a Service Matters

A visitation or funeral service gives family and friends the opportunity to come together during a difficult time. Many families find comfort in:

Seeing loved ones come to pay their respects
Sharing stories and memories
Feeling supported by the presence of others

When services are held, people are far more likely to reach out, attend, and offer comfort in person .

Personal Touches That Celebrate a Life

Services allow families to create a tribute that reflects the individual’s life and personality, including:

Photo and video tributes
Meaningful music and readings
Beautiful floral arrangements
Personal displays and memorabilia

These details help tell a story, spark conversation, and create lasting memories for those who attend.

Viewing Can Be an Important Part of Healing

For many families, a viewing provides a peaceful opportunity to say goodbye. It allows loved ones to see the person at rest and can be an important step in the grieving process.

We’re Here to Guide You

Every family is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. If you are considering cremation, we encourage you to explore the option of having a visitation or funeral service first.

Our experienced staff is here to help you create a meaningful service that honors your loved one and brings people together when it matters most.

Contact us today to learn more about cremation with funeral services.

Do I Need a Final Resting Place?

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 18:04:13 GMT

What Is a Final Resting Place?

When a loved one passes, one of the most personal questions families face is: “Do I need a final resting place?” With choices like traditional cemetery burials or cremation with interment, it’s natural to feel uncertain about what’s best.

At Roberts Funeral Home, we believe a final resting place is more than just a decision about location. It is a lasting tribute, a sacred space, and a gift of peace for generations to come.

A final resting place refers to the permanent location where a loved one’s remains are laid to rest. This may include:

A cemetery burial plot
A mausoleum crypt or niche
A cremation urn placed in a columbarium
Burial of cremated remains in a family plot
Placement in a cremation bench or cremation estate

Why a Final Resting Place Matters

Even in today’s changing world, many families find peace in knowing there is a permanent place of remembrance.

1. A Space for Remembrance

A cemetery plot or cremation memorial provides a physical location where family and friends can gather for anniversaries, holidays, and quiet reflection.

2. A Record for Future Generations

Headstones, memorial plaques, and cremation niches ensure family history and legacies are preserved.

3. A Source of Comfort During Grief

Having a dedicated space in a cemetery offers closure, structure, and peace.

4. A Lasting Tribute

Whether through a traditional headstone, cremation memorial, or personalized monument, a final resting place reflects the life and values of your loved one.

At Roberts Funeral Home, every one of our locations is built directly on a cemetery, giving families the comfort of knowing all services — from the funeral to the interment — can happen in one place.

Our five cemetery locations include:

Sherwood Memorial Gardens – Wooster
Hillcrest Memorial Gardens – Seville
Ashland County Memorial Park – Ashland
East Lawn Memorial Park – Marietta
Mount Vernon Memorial Gardens – Mount Vernon

Contact Roberts Funeral Home today to learn more about our cemeteries and how we can help you find peace of mind with a final resting place. Click here to contact us.

What Do Funeral Directors Really Do?

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 18:35:39 GMT

A Look Behind the Scenes

Funeral directors do more than organize services—they guide families through one of life’s most difficult times. Below are the ways we help with funeral planning, grief support, and honoring your loved one with dignity and care.

�� Guiding Families Through Grief

During times of emotional stress, funeral directors help families make calm, informed decisions. We provide funeral planning support, walk you through each step, and help you create a meaningful tribute.

�� Handling the Details of Funeral Planning

From filing legal paperwork to coordinating with cemeteries or churches, we take care of the behind-the-scenes logistics. This allows families to focus on grieving without added pressure.

��️ Caring for Your Loved One With Dignity

Whether a family chooses traditional burial or cremation services, we ensure their loved one is prepared respectfully—through embalming, dressing, and cosmetic care for peaceful viewing.

�� Creating Personalized Funeral Services

Every service should reflect the unique life it honors. Funeral directors help personalize music, readings, video tributes, military honors, and themed celebrations of life.

�� Available 24/7 Because Loss Has No Schedule

Funeral directors are on call day or night. Whether to respond to a death or simply provide guidance, we’re here whenever you need us.

�� Why It Matters

Funeral homes provide more than services—we offer compassion, structure, and healing. Whether you’re pre-planning or experiencing a loss, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Whether you’re planning ahead or need immediate assistance, our experienced funeral directors are ready to support you every step of the way. Contact us anytime for compassionate, expert care. https://www.robertsfuneralhome.com/about/contact-us

Wooster * 330-345-5665

Marietta * 740-373-2924

Ashland * 419-289-8958

Mt. Vernon * 740-392-6766

Seville * 330-334-1204

What to Expect When You Come to the Funeral Home

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 18:44:04 GMT

At Roberts Funeral Home, we’re here to make your experience easier, more comforting, and guided every step of the way.

�� 1. A Warm, Welcoming Atmosphere

From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll be greeted with kindness and respect. Our staff understands how emotional this time can be, and we’re here to offer comfort and support the moment you arrive.

�� 2. One-on-One Guidance With a Funeral Director

If you’re planning a funeral or memorial, you’ll meet privately with one of our experienced funeral directors. We’ll walk you through the process, explain each option, and help create a service that reflects your loved one’s life and your family’s wishes.

��️ 3. A Peaceful, Comfortable Space to Reflect

Our facility includes quiet rooms where you can gather with family, reflect, or have a moment alone. Whether it’s an intimate farewell or a shared time of remembrance, we’ve designed our space to meet your emotional and spiritual needs.

��️ 4. Respectful and Professional Care for Your Loved One

If you’re coming to say goodbye, know that your loved one has been cared for with the highest level of dignity, professionalism, and respect . Our staff handles every detail to ensure a peaceful and meaningful viewing.

��️ 5. Clear Answers and Support With the Paperwork

We take the confusion out of the paperwork. From permits to death certificates, we’ll guide you through what’s needed, answer your questions, and help take the weight off your shoulders during a difficult time.

⏰ 6. Flexible, Compassionate Service—Day or Night

Grief doesn’t follow a schedule. Whether you’re visiting during regular hours or need support after hours, we’re here for you. Our team is always ready to help with care and compassion—whenever you need us.

�� Ready to Visit Roberts Funeral Home?

We’re honored to serve families in our community with care, dignity, and respect. If you have questions or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today — https://www.robertsfuneralhome.com/about/contact-us

�� Our Locations

Roberts Funeral Home proudly serves families across Northeast Ohio with five convenient locations, each offering the same level of compassion, care, and professionalism. Click here for our locations.

Wooster * 330-345-5665

Marietta * 740-373-2924

Ashland * 419-289-8958

Mt. Vernon * 740-392-6766

Seville * 330-334-1204

Returning to “Normal” After a Funeral

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 19:55:18 GMT

Returning to “Normal” After a Funeral: What Grief Really Looks Like

After the funeral ends and loved ones return home, a new reality begins. The casseroles stop coming, the phone calls quiet down, and many families find themselves wondering, “ When will life feel normal again ?” The truth is, returning to “normal” after a funeral is a deeply personal journey —and it often doesn’t look the way people expect. While there is no set timeline for grief, understanding what to expect can offer comfort and guidance during this difficult time.

Is There Such a Thing as “Normal” After Loss?

Grief changes us. After the loss of someone important, life may never return to the way it was before—and that’s okay. Instead of aiming to go back, many find it more helpful to focus on creating a “new normal” —a life that honors their loved one while slowly finding joy and purpose again.

Common Feelings After the Funeral

In the days and weeks after a service, many people experience a mix of emotions, including:

Numbness or disbelief
Sadness or emptiness
Guilt or regret
Relief (especially after a long illness)
Anxiety about the future
These feelings are a normal part of the grieving process. They may come in waves and can be triggered by memories, milestones, or everyday routines.

Tips for Easing Back Into Daily Life

1. Give Yourself Permission to Grieve

There is no rush to “get over it.” Grief takes its own course, and trying to speed it up often leads to more stress. Allow yourself to feel what you need to feel—without judgment.

2. Maintain Simple Routines

Going back to familiar routines, like morning walks or regular meals, can bring a sense of structure when everything else feels uncertain. Start small and build from there.

3. Talk About Your Loved One

Sharing stories, looking at photos, or visiting a memorial site can help keep their memory alive. It’s okay to talk about them—it doesn’t mean you’re stuck in the past.

4. Seek Support When You Need It

Whether it’s through a grief support group, a counselor, or simply close friends, connecting with others who understand can be a powerful part of healing.

5. Consider Memorial Traditions

Lighting a candle, planting a tree, or creating a scrapbook are gentle ways to honor your loved one while continuing forward.

Visit our page for grief resources; click here

7 Advantages of Preplanning Your Funeral at Any Age

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 14:56:45 GMT

Why Thinking Ahead Brings Peace of Mind

You don’t need to be elderly or facing a serious illness to begin thinking about your final wishes. In fact, preplanning your funeral while you’re healthy is one of the most thoughtful and empowering decisions you can make—for yourself and for the people you love.

Here are seven powerful reasons why preplanning your funeral is a wise choice, no matter your age:

1. Stay in Control of Your Final Wishes

Preplanning allows you to make your own decisions. From choosing between burial and cremation to selecting the style of service and personal touches, it’s your life story—and you get to tell it your way.

2. Remove the Burden of Guesswork for Your Family

One of the hardest parts of losing a loved one is not knowing what they would have wanted. When you preplan, you lift that weight from your family’s shoulders. They will have peace of mind knowing that every choice reflects your true wishes.

3. Lock in Today’s Funeral Prices

Like most things, the cost of funeral services tends to increase over time. Our funeral home allows you to secure current pricing, helping protect your family from future inflation in the years to come.

4. Provide Financial Relief for Your Loved Ones

Prepaying helps spare your family from unexpected costs during an emotional time. It’s a meaningful way to care for your loved ones even after you’re gone.

5. Personalize Your Celebration of Life

Preplanning gives you the opportunity to design a service that reflects your unique personality, values, and life story. Whether it’s your favorite song, a meaningful poem, or a themed memorial event, your farewell can be as personal as your journey.

6. Prevent Family Disagreements

Without a clear plan, families often face confusion and conflict during an already stressful time. By documenting your preferences in advance, you reduce the chance of disputes and ensure your loved ones are united in honoring your life.

7. Enjoy Peace of Mind Today

Knowing that your affairs are in order brings comfort—not just to your family, but to you. Preplanning your funeral allows you to live more fully today, confident that your wishes will be honored in the future.

It’s Never Too Early to Plan Ahead
Whether you’re 35 or 85, preplanning is a thoughtful act of love and responsibility. At Roberts Funeral Home, we make the process simple, respectful, and pressure-free.

Ready to take the next step?
Contact us today to learn more about your preplanning options or to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. You’ll be glad you did—and so will your family. https://www.robertsfuneralhome.com/about/contact-us

Wooster * 330-345-5665

Marietta * 740-373-2924

Ashland * 419-289-8958

Mt. Vernon * 740-392-6766

Seville * 330-334-1204

Why Family-Owned Funeral Homes Make a Difference

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 21:01:29 GMT

What Sets our Family-Owned and Operated Funeral Home Apart?

1. Personalized Service That Feels Like Home

Family-owned funeral homes are built on relationships, not policies. At Roberts Funeral Home, our team lives and works in the same community we serve. We know your traditions, values, and faith—and we treat every family like our own.

Choosing a local, family-run funeral home means:

Tailored funeral and cremation services to honor your loved one
A deeper understanding of your culture, religion, and community traditions
Care that comes from the heart, not a corporate script

2. Familiar Faces and Lasting Trust

One of the most comforting parts of working with a family-owned funeral home is the continuity . At Roberts Funeral Home, you’ll see the same caring staff year after year—people you’ve grown to know and trust.

This consistency means:

You're not treated like a number
We remember your story and what matters most to you
You receive reliable care before, during, and after the service

3. A Legacy You Can Trust

Today, it’s more common than you might think: large corporations purchase well-known funeral homes and continue using the family’s name—often without the family involved at all. The name stays the same, but the personal touch and long-standing values behind it are gone.

That’s not the case at Roberts Funeral Home .

We’ve never sold our name or our legacy. Our funeral home has always been owned and operated by a member of the Roberts family —and always will be.

What that means for you:

Our family name stands for something real—because we’re still the ones behind it
You’re served by people who built this business, not a company that bought it
Our traditions, values, and commitment to care are passed down—not handed off
You can trust that the compassionate service we’re known for is still deeply personal

When you choose Roberts Funeral Home, you’re choosing an unbroken legacy of family service—rooted in truth, not marketing.

Everything in One Place: The Comfort of On-Site Cremation

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 13:54:40 GMT

While many funeral homes send loved ones to off-site facilities for cremation, we do things differently — with our private, on-site crematory, Remembrance Cremation Center , your loved one remains in our care every step of the way.

Why Families Appreciate About Our On-Site Cremation

Your loved one never leaves our care
Everything is handled by our own trusted team — no third-party transfers.
Complete transparency
You know exactly where your loved one is at all times.
Shorter time frame
Services can be scheduled more quickly and flexibly without waiting on outside providers.
Compassionate, consistent staff
The same caring professionals guide your family through every step of the process.
Peace of mind
Being in one place means fewer decisions, less worry, and more time to focus on what matters most.

If you’re interested in learning more about cremation or the services we offer, we invite you to schedule an appointment with our team. We’re here to answer your questions, walk you through your options, and help you make the decision that’s right for you and your family.

Wooster * 330-345-5665

Marietta * 740-373-2924

Ashland * 419-289-8958

Mt. Vernon * 740-392-6766

Seville * 330-334-1204

What to Do with Cremated Remains at Home: Meaningful Options

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 15:50:33 GMT

Cremated Remains at Home? Here’s What You Can Do Next

Bringing a loved one’s cremated remains home is a deeply personal choice. For many families, it brings comfort and closeness in the days and months after a loss. Over time, however, those remains may be placed on a shelf, tucked away in a closet, or even passed between generations with no clear plan for the future.

If you’ve found yourself wondering what to do next, you’re not alone — and there are thoughtful, respectful ways to honor your loved one’s memory for years to come.

Meaningful Memorial Options for Cremated Remains

At all five of our cemeteries, we offer a variety of thoughtful and beautiful ways to provide a permanent place of rest:

See our cemeteries here: https://www.robertsfuneralhome.com/services/our-cemeteries

��️ Columbarium Niches

Granite or marble structures designed to respectfully house urns above ground. Some can be personalized with engraved plaques, photos, and other special touches.

�� Burial of Cremated Remains

Cremation doesn’t rule out burial. We offer dedicated cremation plots where remains can be interred with a marker or monument—just like traditional graves.

�� Memorial Benches and Trees

For those seeking a unique tribute, we offer options like memorial benches or living tree dedications that incorporate cremated remains in a peaceful setting.

�� Family Estates or Companion Spaces

Planning for future generations? We offer cremation estates and shared memorial areas for couples or family members to be remembered together.

We invite you to call us and schedule an appointment to explore the meaningful options available for your loved one’s final place of rest.

Wooster * 330-345-5665

Marietta * 740-373-2924

Ashland * 419-289-8958

Mt. Vernon * 740-392-6766

Seville * 330-334-1204

Understanding Power of Attorney and Funeral Planning in Ohio

Fri, 16 May 2025 16:03:05 GMT

Power of Attorney vs Appointment of Representative

Power of Attorney (POA)

A legal document that allows someone (called the agent) to make decisions on behalf of another person (the principal). This can include managing finances, making healthcare decisions, and handling personal affairs. However, it’s important to know that Power of Attorney ends when the principal dies . At that point, the agent no longer has legal authority to act on their behalf—control shifts to the executor of the estate or next of kin.

Planning Ahead in Ohio: Appointment of Representative

In Ohio, there's a special document called the Appointment of Representative for Funeral Arrangements . This form allows you to legally name someone to take charge of your funeral plans after your death. It can include instructions for burial or cremation, memorial services, and other final wishes. Unlike a POA, this appointment remains valid after death and ensures that your chosen representative has the legal right to carry out your funeral preferences—avoiding family disputes or delays.

Key Takeaways:

POA ends at death —it cannot be used to manage funeral or estate matters.
In Ohio, use an Appointment of Representative to legally designate who will handle your funeral plans.
Planning ahead gives you peace of mind and clarity for your loved ones during a difficult time.

Preparing for Peace of Mind: Life Insurance for End-of-Life Planning

Fri, 16 May 2025 15:30:45 GMT

Types of Life Insurance You Should Know

There are several types of life insurance, but only some are ideal for end-of-life planning. Here's a quick breakdown:

✅ Term Life Insurance

What it is: Coverage for a specific time period—usually 10, 20, or 30 years.
Best for: Those looking for affordable, temporary protection.
Good to know: If you outlive the term, the policy expires with no payout.

✅ Whole Life Insurance

What it is: A permanent policy that lasts your entire life and builds cash value over time.
Best for: Long-term financial planning and guaranteed benefits.
Good to know: Premiums tend to be higher, but the coverage never expires as long as payments are made.

❌ Not Accepted forms of payment for End-of-Life Planning at Roberts Funeral Home

Group Life Insurance: Provided through employers or organizations, but coverage often ends when you leave the group or retire.
Annuities & Contestable Policies: We do not accept these due to their complex rules and payout restrictions.

�� Immediate Life Insurance Checklist

When the time comes, having everything ready helps avoid delays and confusion. Here’s a checklist to help make sure your policy is ready:

Locate the Policy: Find a physical or digital copy of your life insurance documents.
Check Policy Status: Make sure premiums are up to date and the policy is active.
Identify Beneficiaries: Ensure the listed beneficiaries are current and accurate.
Review Exclusions: Be aware of any waiting periods or clauses that may limit payouts (e.g., suicide clause, contestability period).

The Advantages of Funeral and Cemetery Services in One Location

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 15:46:15 GMT

A Look at Wooster-Sherwood Chapel

When a funeral home is located directly on cemetery grounds, it creates a unique setting that offers several practical and emotional benefits for families. One of the most significant advantages is the convenience it provides. Instead of traveling between separate locations for arrangements, services, and burial, everything can be handled in one place. This makes the entire process easier to navigate, especially during a time when families are already feeling overwhelmed and emotionally taxed.

Our Wooster-Sherwood Chapel was the first funeral home and cemetery combination in Ohio, setting a precedent for how integrated care can better serve grieving families. The chapel itself draws inspiration from the beautiful gardens that surround it, creating a peaceful, welcoming environment that reflects the natural beauty of the cemetery grounds. This thoughtful design offers families a serene and comforting space to gather, remember, and reflect.

Having both the funeral home and cemetery in one location also allows for better coordination. The same team that helps plan the service is present throughout the burial process, which reduces the chance of miscommunication or delays. This consistency can make a difficult day run more smoothly and helps families feel supported from beginning to end.

Another benefit is the sense of continuity and familiarity that develops when the same professionals are guiding the family through every step. It can be comforting to work with one team from the initial arrangements all the way through to the final goodbye. This approach often helps build trust and allows for more personalized care, as the staff gets to know the family and their specific needs and wishes.

Proper Funeral Etiquette

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 15:39:28 GMT

Proper Funeral Etiquette

When attending a funeral, following proper etiquette is important to show respect for the deceased and their family. Start by dressing conservatively, usually in muted or dark colors, as this is a somber occasion. Arrive on time and be mindful of the schedule, as punctuality is a sign of respect. During the service, maintain a respectful demeanor—turn off or silence your phone, and speak quietly if you need to communicate with others. Offering condolences to the family is also important; keep your expressions simple and sincere. Acknowledge their loss without overwhelming them with lengthy conversations or unsolicited advice. Sometimes, the most meaningful gesture is to offer a supportive presence and listen, allowing the family to express their grief and share their memories in their own way.

The Value of a Funeral

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 18:22:21 GMT

Funerals play a crucial role in helping people cope with the loss of a loved one. They provide a structured opportunity for family and friends to come together, share their grief, and offer support to one another. This gathering helps acknowledge and honor the life that has ended, giving everyone a chance to say their final goodbyes. Beyond marking the end of a life, funerals offer a moment for reflection, allowing people to celebrate the deceased’s achievements and memories. They also create a space for shared grieving, which can help individuals feel less isolated in their sorrow. This collective mourning process helps in beginning the healing journey, as it often involves stories, rituals, and ceremonies that help frame the loss in a way that acknowledges both the pain, and the beauty of the life lived.

Why Should I Pre-Arrange?

Pre-arranging a funeral is a proactive step that can greatly benefit both you and your loved ones. By planning ahead, you can make your wishes clear regarding the details of your service, such as burial or cremation preferences, the type of service you want, and any specific wishes for the ceremony. This can alleviate the burden on your family during a time of grief, as they won’t have to make difficult decisions while coping with their emotions. Additionally, pre-arranging often allows you to lock in current prices for services, which can help avoid inflation and unexpected costs. It also gives you the opportunity to make thoughtful choices and ensure that everything aligns with your personal values and desires. Overall, pre-arranging can provide peace of mind, knowing that everything will be handled according to your preferences and that your family will be spared from added stress.

Proper Funeral Etiquette

How Do Funeral Homes Play a Role in the Grieving Process?

Funeral homes are essential in guiding families through the complex process of arranging a funeral while they are grieving. They handle many of the logistical details, such as coordinating the service, managing paperwork, and arranging transportation and burial or cremation. This support allows families to focus on their emotional needs rather than being overwhelmed by practical tasks. Additionally, many funeral homes offer grief support services, such as counseling, support groups, or resources to help individuals cope with their loss. By providing these services, funeral homes contribute to the overall healing process, ensuring that families receive the emotional and logistical support they need during one of the most challenging times in their lives.

How Can You Personalize a Funeral Service?

Personalizing a funeral service can make the experience more meaningful and reflective of the deceased’s individuality. Start by incorporating elements that were important to the person’s life, such as favorite songs, hobbies, or achievements. You might include a slideshow or video montage of memorable moments or have a display of personal items that represent their passions and interests. Customizing the service to reflect their personality can help celebrate their life in a unique way and provide comfort to those attending. Additionally, you can involve family and friends in the planning, allowing them to contribute stories or readings that capture the essence of the deceased. Personal touches, such as specific rituals, themed decorations, or picture frames can also make the service a heartfelt tribute and create lasting memories for everyone involved.

What is Embalming and What is it For?

Embalming is a technique used to preserve the body after death, primarily to slow down decomposition and make the body suitable for viewing. The process involves injecting a mixture of chemicals, including formaldehyde, into the body’s vascular system. This helps to sanitize and temporarily preserve the body, allowing for an open-casket viewing if desired. Embalming is particularly useful when there will be a delay between the time of death and the funeral service, or if the body needs to be transported over long distances. While embalming is not always required, it can be an important part of the funeral process for families who wish to have a final visual memory of their loved one or need to adhere to specific logistical requirements.

What Kind of Music is Played at Funerals?

The choice of music at funerals can vary widely depending on the deceased’s preferences, cultural traditions, and the tone of the service. Traditional funerals might feature hymns or classical music, which offer a solemn and reflective atmosphere. Common choices include pieces like “Old Rugged Cross” or “Amazing Grace”. In more contemporary services, people might opt for modern songs or personal favorites that hold special meaning. Some choose rock classics like “Stairway to Heaven” or “Free Bird”. The music chosen often aims to reflect the personality of the deceased and provide comfort to those attending. Whether it’s uplifting or solemn, the music serves to set the mood and help convey the emotions and memories associated with the person who has passed away.