Replacing Funeral Myths with Facts
“12 Funeral Myths”
Sara Williams, FCA President, to speak at national conference on funeral poverty, June 26–29 in Raleigh, NC
How many funeral “requirements” are actually just expensive myths? This vital question drives the consumer advocacy work of Sara Williams, who will be a featured speaker at the upcoming Funeral Consumers Alliance 2025 Biennial Conference.
The conference, called “The Cost of Goodbye: Confronting Funeral Poverty in Our Communities,” will be held June 26–29, 2025, in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Myths That Cost Families Dearly
Williams’ presentation on “12 Myths” will expose common misconceptions that cost families money and peace of mind. From embalming mandates to casket regulations, from home funeral restrictions to green burial limitations, these persistent myths can add thousands of dollars to funeral costs while limiting families’ meaningful choices during their most vulnerable moments.
“You can do comparison shopping from your computer screen… get the general price list… pick the vibe,” Williams explains. “We’re not anti-funeral home. We’re just very pro-consumer.”
Her expertise spans three critical areas where myths flourish: home funeral care (where families are often told they cannot care for their own loved ones), green and natural burial options (frequently dismissed as “not allowed”), and consumer rights under federal law (regularly misrepresented to increase sales).
Why This Knowledge Matters
Every day, grieving families across America encounter myths that cost them money and peace of mind when they can least afford either loss. Williams’ work through the Funeral Consumers Alliance and her role as a trained home funeral guide has shown her how these misconceptions prey on vulnerable families during their most difficult moments.
Her presentation will arm consumers with facts that can save both money and emotional distress, while helping families create more meaningful, authentic farewells that reflect their values and budgets.
About the Speaker
Sara Williams currently serves as President of the Funeral Consumers Alliance and completed a long tenure as President of FCA North Carolina. Her background in international health and breast cancer research provided analytical skills that now serve funeral consumers nationwide. A life-changing encounter with death practices during high school catalyzed her dedication to improving funeral accessibility and transparency.
Williams is a trained home funeral guide, certified celebrant, and hospice volunteer who has been hosting Orange County Death Café events since 2014. Her expertise combines technical knowledge of funeral regulations with compassionate support for grieving families.
Williams has been featured in numerous podcasts and publications, including Seven Ponds Blog, American Weddings Blog, and Good Grief Podcast, where she educates families about their rights and options. Her expertise has also been highlighted in Death Cafe discussions and Chapelboro coverage of funeral industry transparency.
Through her work with Shrouding Sisters and the National Home Funeral Alliance, Williams provides hands-on guidance to families choosing home funeral care. Her leadership of the FCA emphasizes proactive use of the Federal “Funeral Rule” and price transparency rights.
Join the Conversation in Raleigh
We invite advocates, funeral professionals, and anyone who cares about social justice to join us in Raleigh for this important conversation about funeral poverty and dignity in death.
Learn more and view the full conference schedule: Visit the list of FCA Conference Speakers or check out the full event details at FCA Conference Schedule.
This presentation will help families avoid myths that cost money and peace of mind—potentially saving thousands while creating more meaningful farewells.