Death Benefits

Burial Allowances


Under certain circumstances the VA will pay a small funeral/burial benefit.
More information is available from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.

Burial in National or State Cemetery


Veterans may be buried without cost in the Bourne National Cemetery or the State veterans’ cemeteries in Agawam and Winchendon.

Arrangements may be made by the family through the funeral home at the time of death with a copy of the veterans’ honorable discharge. The funeral home will also provide a flag.

The cemetery will provide a minimum two-person honor guard with at least one member from the veterans’ branch of service. National Guard and Reservists must have been called to active duty or drilled for more than 20 years.

Veterans’ spouse and seriously disabled children may also be buried without cost. Children must have been helpless prior to their 18th birthday.

National cemetery phone: (508) 563-7113
Agawam Cemetery phone: (413) 821-9500
Winchendon Cemetery phone: (978) 297-9501

Grave Markers


You can now obtain a bronze or stone marker for private cemetery even if the grave is already marked. Contact James MacRae at 978-929-6614 for more information.

Additional Resources


Additional resources and factsheets can be found at the Department of Veterans Affairs website.