Settle-Wilder Funeral Home and Cremation Service

08/01/2025

FRIDAY FUNERAL FACT
In colonial America, it was tradition to toll a church bell once for every year the deceased had lived—a solemn sound that echoed their life through the town. Known as the “death knell,” this custom gave the community a moment to pause, count, and reflect on the life that had just ended. Though rare today, the symbolism of each toll—a year, a memory, a heartbeat—still resonates as a timeless tribute.

07/29/2025

Funeral Misconceptions: “If I have a will, I don’t need to preplan.”
Truth: A will covers legal and financial matters, but it rarely includes funeral preferences. Preplanning ensures your service reflects your wishes—and lifts a huge burden off your loved ones.

07/28/2025

Happening Tomorrow!
Join Dr. Gordon Meier for a complimentary Lunch & Learn at Settle-Wilder Funeral Home in New Smyrna Beach at 11:30 AM July 29th.

Whether you’re thinking about funeral or cremation preplanning—or just want to learn more—this is a great opportunity to ask questions in a relaxed setting and enjoy a free lunch.

It’s not too late to RSVP—give us a call at 386-507-6510 today!

07/25/2025

FRIDAY FUNERAL FACT:
In the early 20th century, as cars became popular, so did motorized funerals. July was prime season for processions that rolled through towns behind hearses with big fenders and whitewall tires—many even held Sunday “cemetery drives” to visit family graves in style.

07/24/2025

07/24/2025

Have questions about funeral planning? Let’s talk over lunch.
Join Dr. Gordon Meier for a free Lunch & Learn at Settle-Wilder Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 29 at 11:30 AM in New Smyrna Beach.

We’ll cover the basics of preplanning—why it matters, what it includes, and how it can ease the burden on your loved ones. No pressure, just helpful info and a good meal.

Call 386-507-6510 today to reserve your seat.

07/22/2025

Funeral Misconceptions:
“Only older people need to think about funeral planning.”
Truth: Preplanning isn’t about age—it’s about peace of mind. Many people in their 40s, 50s, or even younger choose to plan ahead to spare their families the guesswork later.

07/18/2025

FRIDAY FUNERAL FACT:
Did you know Abraham Lincoln’s funeral train took nearly three weeks to travel from Washington, D.C., to his burial in Springfield, Illinois? It stopped in 180 cities, allowing thousands to pay their respects. His funeral was one of the largest public mourning events in U.S. history.

07/15/2025

Funeral Misconceptions:
“If I choose cremation, I can’t have a funeral.”
Truth: Cremation doesn’t replace a funeral—it simply changes the form of care. You can still have a service, viewing, or celebration of life with cremation.

07/11/2025

FRIDAY FUNERAL FACT:
White marble headstones became a U.S. military tradition during the Civil War—and are still used today in national cemeteries. The color wasn’t just symbolic—it was readily available, durable, and reflected the uniformity and honorowed to every service member.