16/01/2026
The East Coast funeral directors truths and not so much truths. Common "funeral director mistruths" often involve myths about their motives (only profit-driven), the necessity of expensive services (they can tailor to budgets), and the nature of their work.
However, genuine mistruths and misconduct do occur, like false representations about handling remains, the choices, options available or financial fraud, as highlighted in some high-profile cases. Families should research options and ask questions to ensure transparency, as some directors may downplay simpler, cheaper alternatives like cardboard coffins, smaller services or celebration of life funerals for profit.
Common Myths vs. Reality
Myth: They're only in it for money. Reality: Most are compassionate professionals, but it's a business; costs cover operations, so asking for deposits for third-party fees (disbursements) is normal, not untrustworthy.
Myth: Expensive or branded equals better. Reality: You can have a meaningful funeral on a budget; simple options (like direct cremation) exist, and costs aren't a reflection of service or quality and a small independent funeral director is the better choice.
Myth: They're death experts. Reality: They offer industry-specific advice and empathy, but aren't necessarily specialists in the psychology of death.
Myth: All loved ones are kept at the correct temperature whilst in care. Reality: Many do not have adequate refrigeration or bariatric provision.
Examples of Misconduct & Misinformation
Fraud: Cases exist where directors falsely claimed to care for remains or misrepresented services, sometimes involving financial fraud or mishandling ashes.
Misleading on Costs/Options: Some traditional directors may discourage cheaper, eco-friendly options (like cardboard coffins) because they lose profit margins, potentially presenting them as substandard.
Claiming to be family run, often using phrases like "our family looking after yours" or exaggerating the quality of their premises and or care, which can result in a smoke and mirrors approach to the business practices.
Unnecessary Procedures: Directors might over-sell services like embalming, which is not legally required in many places.
What Families Should Do
Ask Questions: Inquire about all costs, including disbursements, and request itemised estimates. Ask to see where your loved one will be cared for and what this care looks like.
Research: Look into alternatives like simple funerals, direct cremations, or green burials and don't presume that all funeral directors are the same.
Compare Providers: Get quotes from multiple funeral homes, just like any other significant purchase and make your decisions based on findings, facts and how they look after you, not price, location or fancy advertising.
At Funerals By Mark Drake the reality is clear and on view to all to see for yourselves. As unlike many invest 90% of our profits back into the business not shareholder pockets. Proudly differant in leading the call for higher standards across the industry based on facts not preception.
Best Always
Mark
