Meda
at Essington Rds, 3200 Black Rd, IL, 60431
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.
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.
Average in Illinois
$2,620 – $8,240
Source: NFDA 2023 · Direct cremation to traditional burial
Funerals in this area run $2,620–$8,240. 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.
“We worked with Fred C. Dames Funeral Home twice—first in 2021 when my father-in-law passed away during COVID, and again last month when my mother-in-law passed. Both experiences were truly exceptional, and we are deeply grateful for the care, professionalism, and compassion they showed our family. The staff paid close attention to every detail and confirmed everything with us multiple times to ensure our wishes were fully respected. They went above and beyond to accommodate all of our requests. The floral arrangements were absolutely beautiful—exactly like the photos in their catalog, if not even more stunning in person. We also used their large screen to display photos and memories from my mother-in-law’s life. This allowed everyone who attended to better understand and celebrate her story, and it meant a lot to us. I want to especially recognize Allison. She is incredibly gentle, caring, and kind. Throughout the entire process, we could feel her genuine compassion. After the cremation, it took us about three weeks to find a suitable cemetery. During that time, Allison personally helped deliver the urn to the cemetery and volunteered her time to help arrange everything for the interment. Her support truly made a difficult time so much easier for our family. The funeral home also keeps very clear and organized records. All of the documents from both my father-in-law and mother-in-law were properly stored, which made everything smooth and stress-free. Lastly, I want to mention the excellent acoustics in their chapel. We sang hymns without microphones or speakers, yet the sound carried beautifully all the way to the back row. It created a peaceful and dignified atmosphere for the service. When a loved one passes, you want to give them the most respectful and meaningful farewell possible. Fred C. Dames Funeral Home provided exactly that. Their thoughtful service warmed our hearts during a very difficult time, and we are truly thankful. I highly recommend them to any family seeking a funeral home that offers professionalism, compassion, and exceptional care.”
— kate McCarthy
“I want to start this review by saying it feels weird to leave a review about a funeral home. But throughout the entire process I remember thinking, these people have found their calling. I needed to make arrangements for my brother & I was devastated with grief. He died very unexpectedly & I was really really struggling. Even from the moment I called just to ask questions, Marlena was so unbelievably kind & compassionate. Every single step of the way she held my hand in making decisions & when I couldn’t think clearly she gave amazing suggestions. While Marlena was my primary contact, every single person I dealt with was wonderful. I couldn’t have chose a better place for my brother’s service. I truly thank them. Rachael-”
— Rachael Rein
“We had a very positive experience. I was at a loss on how to handle properly the arrangements for our loved one. I called and explained what I needed. To fulfill a last with of burial but the cemetery was in another state. They were familiar with the cemetery and were able to arrange everything. Pickup at the hospital all the way to transport and go directly to the burial site in a different state! I did not have to do much else. There was no pressure at all. They gave us choices and we made the decisions. We are forever grateful for the outstanding service they provided. The peace of mind that they brought to us is immense. Thank you.”
— Norma H
We file the life insurance claim and recover unclaimed property — the payout can help cover costs like these. $0 upfront.
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Many funeral homes allow you to spread the cost over time. Ask about down payments, terms, and financing options.