Our Services

Pre-Planning

There are more advantages to pre-planning than there are disadvantages. The most important reason for making pre-arrangements for funeral and burial services is family. By pre-planning and leaving detailed information, making funeral arrangements during a time of loss is substantially eased for the remaining family members.

Smith Funeral Chapels offers two free booklets titled, “When Funeral Planning, what should I expect…” and “Personal Information Portfolio,” to assist in funeral planning. You may record your requests down to the last detail, if desired, outlining the services you wish. Even music and memorial folder verses, clothing and other details may be specified.  We provide you with a copy and we retain one for our files. You will want to give copies to your immediate family members, attorney and any others who will need to know your wishes and plans.  There is no charge for this service.

When pre-planning, you may want to check the advantages of the Montana Funeral Trust. At the time of death, the attending funeral chapel presents proof of services rendered and death certification to the bank for payment. This account is interest-bearing to handle inflationary costs. The trust may be revocable or irrevocable for Medicaid requirements. Another method of pre-funding is through insurance.

Cemetery Arrangements

Smith West Funeral Chapel is located adjacent to Terrace Gardens Cemetery. Terrace Gardens is a perpetual care cemetery serving all faiths, veterans and fraternal organizations; complete with ground burial, lawn crypts, columbarium niches, memorial niche, mausoleum and funeral chapel. Please request cemetery information and pricing from any one of our Smith Funeral Chapels.

Creating a Legacy of Memories

It’s important to secure the memories and stories of a loved one. Learn more about why we offer the finest in online tributes and tribute videos, the Book of Memories™.

Steps in Planning a Funeral or Memorial Service

Outlining the basics, this page is a fine place to start for those families faced with making final care arrangements for a loved one. Here’s where you become familiar with what’s ahead.

The First Decision: Burial or Cremation?

This is a major decision. We encourage all families to consider whichever option suits them best at the time of need. Here’s information to help you get the conversation started.

What to Know When Choosing Burial

If you think that burial is the right choice for your family, there are some important decisions you must make. This page details the questions involved, offering support to families choosing burial.

When Cremation is Preferred

Detailing the reasons why cremation is the preference of a growing number of families, this page also covers additional questions to ask once the cremation decision has been made.