Palmer Memorial Chapel
1200 Fontaine Pl, Columbia, SC, 29223
Questions to Ask When You Call
You're not expected to know this. These questions help you compare and avoid surprises.
“Can I see your General Price List?”
Federal law (FTC Funeral Rule) requires them to give you itemized pricing. You have every right to ask.
“Do you accept insurance assignment?”
This means they bill the insurance company directly. You don't pay thousands upfront and wait to be reimbursed.
“What's included vs. what's extra?”
Packages may not include everything. Ask about the casket, embalming, transportation, facility fees, and death certificate copies.
“Do you offer payment plans?”
Many funeral homes allow you to spread the cost over time. Ask about down payments, terms, and financing options.
Know Your Rights
The FTC Funeral Rule protects you. Every funeral home must provide an itemized General Price List if you ask — in person or over the phone. You are never required to buy a package and can choose services individually. You also have the right to use a casket purchased elsewhere.
Payment & Financial Options
Average in South Carolina
$2,121 – $6,671
Source: NFDA 2023 · Direct cremation to traditional burial
If they had life insurance, it can cover this
Funerals in this area run $2,121–$6,671. If your loved one had a life insurance policy, the benefit can cover these costs — and we'll file the claim and handle the carrier for you, even without the policy number. $0 upfront, and nothing if it doesn't pay out.
Business Hours
What Families Say
“Mimi Etheridge who is one of the Directors at Palmer IS AMAZING!!! Palmer Memorial Chapel Is one of the best funeral homes Here in Columbia!!”
— KIRION MCNAIR
“Our family has been using this funeral home for over a decade and each funeral has been an unforgettable affair! They are compassionate and tasteful when handling grieving clients. The professionalism of all, from director to driver, was deeply appreciated. This is an independent business, NOT a large chain funeral home, which is reflected in the personalized attention we received on every occasion. We are grateful this business is here to service our community with care and cultural sensitivity.”
— linda bright
“Would never recommend to anyone ! Air conditioning did not work in August in SC. The video screen did not come on until half the visitation was over, the programs were not printed in time and we were asked to “pass them out ourselves . There were fingernail clippings on the floor in the viewing room, they provided stale Oreos and hot water bottles / not even chilled . It was like our arrival was a surprise - very unprepared and the other said all these things were out of her control!! Wallpaper peeling off walls/ I had to move the wallpaper and nails out of the way / was in entryway. Bench was filthy -Have some decency and respect for families losing ones they love instead of worrying about money you make!!”
— Angela Washington
We can help with what comes next.
We file the life insurance claim and recover unclaimed property — the payout can help cover costs like these. $0 upfront.
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