White banner with a pale blue horizontal line across the center.

Death and Taxes

Cremation Center of Southern Utah • April 10, 2024

On November 13, 1789, founding father Benjamin Franklin wrote a letter that included what many believe to be his last great quote, “Our new Constitution is now established, and has an appearance that promises permanency; but in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.”

Although the concept of pairing death and taxes certainly existed prior to this writing, the publication of Franklin’s papers in 1817 catapulted the statement to the forefront of American pop culture.

Once we reach adulthood, taxes are a constant in our lives, whether we’re paying sales tax at the grocery store, filing quarterly tax reports, or meeting with our favorite CPA each spring. Death, on the other hand, seems to touch our lives less frequently, but certainly more dramatically.

Statistically, the average adult will be responsible for making final arrangements for a loved one approximately 1.6 times during their lifetime. They will typically be in their 50s when this responsibility first presents itself and will likely be making arrangements for a parent.

Death is an inevitability that will touch us all. As such, wise individuals prepare for this event by having open conversations with their loved ones and taking the time to plan ahead with a funeral home. Pre-planning allows you to detail your wishes in writing and participate in all of the decisions that need to be made, such as purchasing a plot in the cemetery of your choice or designing a headstone.

As you begin the pre-planning process, it is important to remember that you are not just planning for yourself. You are making arrangements and decisions that will greatly affect your loved ones.

Whether you’re blindsided by an unexpected death or ready to pre-plan for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to help. Contact us today to begin this important process.

The Cremation Center of Southern Utah is located at 1316 S. 400 E., Ste. A3, in St. George. Call us at (435) 986-9100, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @CremationCenterSU.

Submitted by W. Russell Atkin, Licensed Funeral Director/Owner

Benjamin Franklin Source:

https://constitutioncenter.org/blog/benjamin-franklins-last-great-quote-and-the-constitution

By Cremation Center of Southern Utah • July 21, 2026
Who has the legal right to authorize your cremation? Utah State Code sets a specific order of succession — and pre-planning removes the guesswork.
By Cremation Center of Southern Utah • July 7, 2026
Top tips for traveling with cremated remains via commercial airline — non-metallic urn, carry-on placement, and the cremation permit you’ll need for TSA.
By Cremation Center of Southern Utah • January 9, 2026
Robert W. Service’s poem “The Cremation of Sam McGee” tells of one man’s last request — and a lesson about making sure your own final wishes are honored.
By Cremation Center of Southern Utah • November 19, 2025
Thanksgiving can be tremendously difficult for those mourning a loved one. Four tips to support your emotional well-being through the holiday.
By Cremation Center of Southern Utah • November 5, 2025
Veterans who choose cremation are entitled to burial benefits for cremated remains — including a gravesite or niche space, grave marker, and honor guard.
By Cremation Center of Southern Utah • April 23, 2025
Our Tree of Life program plants a tree in honor of the deceased in Southern Utah’s Dixie National Forest — over 4,100 trees planted since its inception.
By Cremation Center of Southern Utah • March 19, 2025
From the early Stone Age to the first North American crematory in 1876 — points of interest on the long history of cremation.
By Cremation Center of Southern Utah • January 28, 2025
Palliative care nurse Bronnie Ware identified the top five regrets voiced by the dying. A reminder to live life to the fullest and regret free.
By Cremation Center of Southern Utah • October 29, 2024
Top safety tips for drivers and for parents with little witches and warlocks haunting the streets this Halloween.
By Cremation Center of Southern Utah • July 10, 2024
If you wish to be cremated, renting a casket allows a viewing or funeral service beforehand at significant savings. How a rental casket works.
Show More