FAQs
Welcome to Crosbie Matthew Funeral Directors’ FAQ page. We understand that planning a funeral can feel overwhelming, and we’re here to provide clarity and support. Below, you’ll find answers to the most commonly asked questions about our services. If your question isn’t listed here, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly.
General Questions
You can choose ‘own clothes’ or a funeral robe for your loved one. For cremations, lightweight clothing is required due to environmental regulations (e.g., no kilts, heavy jackets or shoes). If you’re unsure about anything, please contact us for guidance.
For burials, personal items like photographs, poems, and meaningful objects can be placed in the coffin. For cremations, only non-combustible items are permitted, as materials like glass or metal cannot be included. Speak to your funeral director for more advice.
Embalming is a process that preserves the body by destroying natural bacteria and creating a lifelike appearance. Embalming isn’t always required in Scotland, as most funerals happen relatively quickly after death. We can provide this service if it aligns with your wishes.
It depends on the venue. Some crematoria and churches have safety policies that require trolleys instead of pallbearers. Your funeral director will ensure respectful arrangements and meet all health and safety requirements.
Yes, we serve all of Fife and other parts of Scotland. We have funeral homes in Kirkcaldy, Glenrothes, Dalgety Bay, and Rosyth. Wherever you are, we’re here to help.
The Funeral Service
Music for cremations is arranged using the Obitus system, and we require selections 48 working hours prior to the service. You may also request live performances (e.g., pipers or musicians). Speak to us about music options for burial or church services, as requirements can vary.
Kirkcaldy Crematorium seats up to 170 people, with additional standing space in the foyer and outdoors where loudspeakers are available.
Yes, all our funeral homes are wheelchair accessible. Our Kirkcaldy location has a lift, while Glenrothes and Dalgety Bay are on one level. At the crematorium, we can remove seating to accommodate wheelchairs, ensuring mourners with accessibility needs are comfortable.
We can provide transport via our fleet of hearses and limousines. Limousines seat up to seven people and can take you to the graveside or crematorium. Following services, we also organise taxi transport free of charge if required.
This is entirely up to you. Some families choose to greet attendees in a reception line at the crematorium or church foyer, while others prefer to do this at a post-service gathering.
Cremation-Specific Questions
Yes, the coffin is cremated with the body. Crematoria follow strict regulations to ensure the process is transparent and respectful.
Yes, crematoria use a rigorous labelling process to ensure accuracy. You can rest assured that the remains returned are those of your loved one.
No, there’s no rush. We can keep cremated remains at our funeral homes for up to six months while you decide. After this time, we’ll contact you to arrange collection or advise on final resting options.
About Us and Our Services
We’re a family-owned funeral director serving Fife since 1939, proudly spanning three generations. All services are delivered by fully qualified staff with local knowledge, ensuring compassionate and personal care. Transparency is key to our approach—we provide clear, upfront pricing for all services.
- Service Rooms: Each of our homes features a service room equipped with seating for up to 100 guests, sound systems, and microphones.
- Mortuary Facilities: Full mortuary and refrigeration services are available.
- Funeral Cars: An owned fleet of hearses and limousines for respectful and professional transport.
Yes. Our pre-payment plans allow you to arrange and pay for your funeral in advance, easing the financial and emotional burden on your loved ones. Contact us to discuss options tailored to your needs.
We understand that grief is a deeply personal experience. We offer online bereavement counselling and support to help families and friends through this challenging time.
If you have additional questions or need support, please call us any time—we’re available 24/7 and ready to help.
If you have other questions that haven’t appeared here, please don’t hesitate to phone or email and we’ll do our best to answer them.