Serenity Gardens Memorial Park Dignity Memorial Collected funds for burial plot and complete pre-need service and then stated I never paid even after I provided proof Largo, Florida

I buried my husband and was told I had to purchase the plot next to him in order to get the large double headstone that I wanted and it had to be purchased prior to ordering by state law, so I purchased it and the headstone to the tune of over 11k some weeks after I was in the office for collection of paperwork and was told about pre-need services, the horrible task of burial arrangements for my husband was still fresh in my mind and I did not want any family member to be in that position so I prearranged my funeral, down to the flowers and a limo for family, nothing left out to ensure that no one would have to make a choice for me

I paid 900.00 down-later that afternoon returned and paid $4,900.00 with a finance left 90 days same as cash remaining $5,510.00 balance. I returned over a month later and paid that balance and was provided with a kit and a card for my wallet with instructions and I filled out my own death certificate. I left feeling good that if I died my family would be cared for, and in the event I needed to pull money out later I could without penalty.

I contacted them many years later in Dec 2011 for a financial emergency and requested 4000.00 of funeral monies. I was told I needed to come in for request and I did. The funeral director that assisted my family was no longer their so I spoke to the new one Mr Harland. I provided him with everything, al original contracts, amendments, receipts, canceled checks, bank statements and a written request. I was shocked when he said I never paid for my funeral only my cemetery and that he could not provide the money to me that they collected and promised to escrow in the event of my death.

I stated here is the proof right here and he said over and over that is cemetery, when I asked what does that mean I was told he would have to get back to me because he was not here when I paid and was not sure what was included in cemetery at that time. I called the past funeral director in his presence and he also stated that I paid and said that they cannot keep my money to pursue it with higher ups. He also stated that the new director should have the accountant go to the financial records and she would see that I did pay and he ignored that comment.

I explained to him about the purchase of cemetery to get headstone and even though all paperwork was provided he stated he could not help. I feel they have blatantly ignored me and the receipts and contracts that binds our agreement. I have visited the location and every time I am asked for copies and given the run around. I have contacted the last person and have to file legal action now.

I would have never believed that this would happen, we have never had an issue with them for any of our families burial services and I really feel that someone should have taken 2 minutes to look over the paperwork the proof is there. I have canceled checks, all paperwork, all kits they provide you after you have paid it off, statements from past director, what else more should I have to provide a video of it. I know that eventually someone with authority will see my paperwork and agree that the office managers did not even take the time to investigate this. I now have to struggle to pay legal fees to collect what is rightfully mine.