Video: Funeral Services Going High-tech in Columbus

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) – Advancements in technology continue to help industries improve the way they do business. Now the funeral services industry is going high tech to help ease the stress of laying a loved one to rest.

Burying a loved one can cost thousands of dollars but now a local funeral home is giving clients options
that not only cut back on expenses but also creates lasting memories.

“We offer traditional funeral services with 21st Century technology,” says Dessie Robinson, Owner and General Manager at Benchmark Memorial Life Center.

Starkville native Dessie Robinson is the owner of Benchmark Memorial Life Center in Columbus. Benchmark, a full service funeral home, can live stream services, saving mourners time and travel costs. They’ll also handle spreading the word about someone’s passing and keep people informed of funeral plans via smart phone.

“We send out the messages for every family member and friends for them. They don’t have to remember “Did I call Sally to let her know that Lilly has passed?”
We do that for them,” says Robinson.

Obituaries and tribute videos can be found on their website for 30 days after each service. Registration is done online as guest arrive and thank you cards are later pre-printed for your convenience. Families can also choose to create a memory book or even a customized photo blanket. Robinson opened the funeral home after losing a loved one and receiving poor service.

“It’s going to be a celebration because we’re going to handle it integrity, pride, dignity, and most of all, respect,” says Robinson.

Robinson says handling the small details, reducing overall costs and giving families lasting memories is closing the technology gap in the funeral industry and most importantly, giving grieving families much needed relief.

Benchmark will also allow family and friends to upload photos and condolences on their site. They then take the materials and create a DVD for you to keep.