Common Questions
Final arrangements for your loved one require many decisions to be made. Making cemetery arrangements typically takes place not long after the death itself so family members can easily find themselves overwhelmed with grief, even anger. With most things in life, education is key to navigating this process. We’ve compiled a listing of the most common questions or families have asked us and present them to be helpful to you.
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Why do people choose Woodlawn Abbey Mausoleum when planning for the future and in time of need?
Serving the Puyallup Valley since 1913, generations of your friends and neighbors have been served by Woodlawn Abbey. Our climate controlled facility is impeccably maintained and we are open 7 days a week for you to visit.
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Who owns Woodlawn Abbey Mausoleum?
Woodlawn Abbey Mausoleum is owned by the Gaffney Group. Gaffney Group is a family company that owns and operates cemeteries, cremation businesses and funeral homes in Western Washington.
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Do I need to contact a cemetery if I’ve already contacted a funeral home?
Yes, we encourage you to also contact a cemetery in addition to the funeral home, as they can help you plan for and arrange all the details for your loved one following a funeral or memorial service. Any cemetery will be able to provide you help and assistance as you’re planning.
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How can I find out the costs involved with cemetery property and services?
One of our Family Service Associates can itemize the exact costs involved for you and can suggest a payment plan, which allows you to pay over time and offers discounts for those who purchase property in advance of need.
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When I buy a crypt or niche, do I own the space?
No. What you own is the right to determine who may be place in your space. These rights are called “interment rights.” The crypt or niche remains the property, and the responsibility, of the cemetery.
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Do I have to pre-pay for my cemetery arrangements?
No. Planning your cemetery arrangements ahead of time protects your family from having to make decisions during an emotional time and allows them to focus on what’s important – grieving your loss.
However, when plans are made ahead of time, peace of mind is achieved along with financial savings. You can lock in the price today for what you will need in the future.
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What Will Happen to My Loved One’s Grave in the Distant Future?
Cemeteries are traditionally thought of as permanent, and the land designation is often in perpetuity. You can visit the final resting places that are more than a hundred years old all over the country. It’s nice to think that your loved one’s permanent resting place will still be around and treasured by coming generations.
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I’ve heard of Endowment Care - what is it?
In short, Endowment Care refers to the funds that keep the cemetery beautiful and well-kept, ensuring that your loved one will be taken care of each and every day over the long term. Once the service is over and those in attendance have left the cemetery, we want to ensure that peacefulness and beauty are permanent parts of our property and the interest generated from the Endowment Care Fund makes this possible.
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I’m researching my family tree. How can I get information from Woodlawn Abbey Mausoleum about my ancestors?
Please visit our Genealogy Request Form on this website to get started. For a nominal fee we check our permanent records and will share with you the information we have on file. Oftentimes, the funeral home handling their arrangements will have a copy of their death certificate on file which can be a treasure trove of information.
