Regardless of what this particular situation may be the original statement is true. After having been involved in a number of funerals ranging from a "pauper funeral" to something that was, in my opinion, greatly overdone, I can tell you that funeral expenses often come at the worst of times. Just a very basic funeral can cost north of $5,000. And that usually does not include the cost of the plot, opening and closing the grave, death certificates, etc. I HIGHLY recommend a burial policy with a local funeral home or at least a life insurance policy of at least $10,000 to cover the cost. Local laws governing deaths, burials, and related issues vary from place to place so the idea of "just roll me into the road ditch and rake a few leaves over me" probably won't work. There are expenses involved, especially if there are bank accounts or any other type of property involved.