Brian Bonitto, Editor - Overseas Publications

Transporting the departed to their final resting place can be a serious decision. For this journey, some persons opt for the traditional mode of transport, while others 'thinking outside the box' request, budget permitting, a fairy tale-like 'send-off' with all the trappings.

"People don't want a morbid affair," said Ferdinand Madden Jr, funeral director of Madden's Funeral Supplies and Crematorium Ltd.

Madden is a third-generation proprietor whose family has been involved in final preparations since 1934. He has seen hearses transform from the "extremely classy and conservative" black Cadillac to trendy modified four-wheel-drive vehicles outfitted with see-through carriages.

Changed in size

The funeral director said that hearses have not only changed in style and shape but also in size.

"They have gotten smaller," he said.

Tommy Thompson, owner of Brite Lite Funeral Service and Supplies, believes it is his role to try to keep clients in "high spirits".

"One should celebrate death," said Thompson, who is known for his flamboyant 'farewells', in a 2006 interview. He said he tries to take away some of the sorrow by transforming the funeral setting into a celebratory one.

Petrol-driven hearses were produced in the United States from as early as 1909 to replace the traditional horse-drawn carriages, and became popular in the 1920s. Today, most hearses are converted sedans on stretched wheelbases with the back reworked to hold the casket.

Madden said demand for these non-traditional 'blinged rides' are fuelled by North American influences.

"We take our cues from the United States ... Black celebrities and entertainer funerals usually set the trends," he said.

Madden said the price tag for these modified hearses can run into the millions.

"A modified four-wheel-drive hearse could cost up to $5 million or more, depending on the make of the vehicle ... flowers not included," he quipped.

Servicing costs

Servicing these vehicles can cost a pretty penny as not every mechanic is familiar with their workings.

"They are very expensive to maintain," Madden said.

Although the majority of requests for these trendy rides come from persons connected to the entertainment fraternity, Madden said the demand has filtered to other groups.

"A funeral is the last big occasion on earth for a friend or loved one," he said. "It's only fitting."

But, would he want a flashy hearse at his funeral?

"My personal preference would be a Cadillac," he said. "I guess I am more of a traditional person."