The contemporary method of dealing with the deceased popular in other countries as well involves a minister being present at the time of death. Doctors will complete a death certificate, though sometimes coroners are needed to investigate deaths or act in lieu of a physician.

A funeral director (or undertaker) is called then to take the body to a funeral home and arrange for burial. Often the body is embalmed, where chemicals are flushed through blood vessels with about a gallon remaining to help preserve the tissue as well as make the body appear better with pink coloring. Cosmetics are also used to make the body more lifelike and brighter.

Caskets are used in place of coffins, with the difference being that caskets are simple rectangles. They range from simple to elaborate, wood or metal, and they have an inner lining. At a wake, the body is placed on display. Funerals entail prayer, praise of the dead person. The body is then carried to the hearse by pallbearers and bury the casket in the cemetery. Other times, the casket may be placed inside of a burial vault. Others may opt for cremation.