The cost of death

You might think your funeral is someone else’s problem, but you’ll be surprised at the costs and options available. Plus, there are good reasons why you’re better off planning your own farewell shindig. After all, there’s a lot more than just dollars and cents at stake.

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Corinne Kerk

Published Fri, Sep 23, 2022 · 02:00 PM

Made from ashes, Algordanza memorial diamond is available in a wide range of cuts and are produced, engraved and controlled in Switzerland. PHOTO: ALGORDANZA
For those who want a green touch at their funeral, Ang Chin Moh Funeral Directors offers wicker caskets as an option. PHOTO: ANG CHIN MOH FUNERAL DIRECTORS
An elaborate funeral setting arranged by Ang Chin Moh Funeral Directors. PHOTO: ANG CHIN MOH FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Ang Chin Moh Funeral Directors can help organise a sea burial with a biodegradable seashell urn. PHOTO: ANG CHIN MOH FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Ang Ziqian of Ang Chin Moh Funeral Directors says it takes courage, wisdom and love to do funeral pre-planning. PHOTO: ANG CHIN MOH FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Each of the 3 exclusive suites at Goldhill Memorial Centre offers privacy for up to 30 visitors. PHOTO: DIOS VINCOY JR, BT
There are 14 private booths at Goldhill Memorial Centre. PHOTO: DIOS VINCOY JR, BT
An elegant private booth at Goldhill Memorial Centre. PHOTO: DIOS VINCOY JR, BT
Singapore Funeral Services' Hoo Hung Chye had local Chinese celebrities attend the grand opening of Goldhill Memorial Centre. PHOTO: DIOS VINCOY JR, BT
Some families choose to have live food stations serving dishes that were the favourites of the deceased. PHOTO: THE LIFE CELEBRANT
Pallbearers preparing for the departed's final set-off in Showers of Love Sanctuary at The Life Celebrant. PHOTO: THE LIFE CELEBRANT
The Life Celebrant's Ang Jolie Mei spending a moment with the daughter of a deceased man after his funeral service. PHOTO: THE LIFE CELEBRANT
A modern-looking parlour at Direct Funeral Services. PHOTO: DIRECT FUNERAL SERVICES
A set up with lush greenery by Direct Funeral Services. PHOTO: DIRECT FUNERAL SERVICES
Direct Funeral Services' Jenny Tay and her father Roland, who is known for doing pro-bono funerals for the underprivileged. PHOTO: DIRECT FUNERAL SERVICES

FROM niches sold like hot Build-To-Order property at “new launch” prices (yes, there’s a secondary market for them) and a freehold spot for your ashes with “excellent feng shui” (installment plans available) to turning your remains into diamonds as precious keepsakes, there is much that happens after death.

Made from ashes, the Algordanza memorial diamond is available in a wide range of cuts and are produced, engraved and controlled in Switzerland. PHOTO: ALGORDANZA

And they all cost a pretty penny.

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