Frequently Asked Questions
We’re Here to Help
Why is having a place to visit so important?
It provides a focal point for memorializing your loved ones. To remember, and to be remembered, are natural human needs. Every life makes an impact on others and deserves to have a permanent, public place of memorialization – a place where family, friends and future generations can go to visit and remember. It also provides comfort after services and the funeral are over.
Psychologists say that remembrance practices, from the funeral or memorial service to permanent memorialization, serve an important emotional function for survivors by helping to bring closure and allowing the healing process to begin. Providing a permanent resting place for the deceased is a dignified treatment for a loved one’s mortal remains, which fulfills the natural human desire for memorialization.
Of course, our memories are with us at all times, and in all places. Oftentimes, however, a focal point or specific location can help us grieve and honor a loved one in a more tangible way. At Gateway Gardens, we provide permanent resting places for the deceased and then care and maintain those honored spots, which dignifies human life and provides a safe space for friends and family to remember, grieve, and heal. Increasingly, people are finding that completing their family’s genealogical records can add richness and depth to their memories; visiting gravesites and researching family history helps add to those rich traditions.
What is a columbarium?
A columbarium is a small granite structure with numerous small compartments (“niches”) designed to hold urns containing cremated remains, or “cremains.”
Why is preplanning so important?
Pre-planning and pre-payment will protect you from the rising cost of prices, and it will not be a financial burden on your loved ones. When you plan ahead you know that your wishes will be fulfilled. All of the spaces at Gateway Gardens are available for pre-purchase. Our professional and experienced staff is available to answer all of your your questions and give you a tour of our property.
What is a burial plot?
A burial plot is a single grave that can accommodate one person, one person and cremains, or 2 to 3 cremains.
A family burial plot is six graves; two rows of three graves. A full family plot is recommended for large families and/or future generations that would like to be buried together. A map of Gateway Gardens Cemetery depicting the layout of plots is on file at the office and can be viewed to help with your selection.
Can two people be buried in the same grave?
Yes and no. There can only be one traditional burial per grave, but there can be two cremation burials in one traditional size grave, or a traditional burial with a cremation burial on top of the traditional burial.
Can I transfer my Deed (Interment Right) to someone else?
Yes. Ownership of an unused interment right may be transferred. All transfers must be requested through the Cemetery Administration department. You may reach that department at Gatewaygardensla@gmail.com or by calling the office at 225-686-7979. Please note that a fee will apply.
If I am cremated, can I be buried or entombed with a loved one?
In many cases, Yes. Please speak to one of our counselors to discuss your options.
Do I have to pay a monthly maintenance fee?
No. Gateway Gardens is a perpetual care cemetery. A one-time endowment care fee is charged at the time you purchase a grave. The money is placed in a special trust fund, the proceeds of which are used to cover future maintenance costs throughout the cemetery.