Service Corporation International (SCI) 10-K 18 Feb 16 2015 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information Document - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Feb. 10, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	Service Corporation International
Entity Central Index Key	89,089
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2015
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		194,881,407
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 5,719,357,510

Consolidated Statement of Opera

Consolidated Statement of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Feb. 11, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenue		$ 769,383		$ 714,526		$ 754,354		$ 748,117		$ 783,444		$ 718,314		$ 746,760		$ 745,493		$ 2,986,380	$ 2,994,011	$ 2,550,466
Costs and expenses		(581,942)		(573,723)		(588,096)		(570,674)		(578,142)		(570,030)		(590,719)		(579,435)		(2,314,435)	(2,318,326)	(2,001,419)
Gross profit		187,441		140,803		166,258		177,443		205,302		148,284		156,041		166,058		671,945	675,685	549,047
General and administrative expenses																		(128,188)	(184,749)	(155,128)
Gains (losses) on divestitures and impairment charges, net																		6,522	116,613	(6,263)
Operating income		157,035		124,548		127,581		141,115		220,281		135,119		144,730		107,419		550,279	607,549	387,656
Interest expense																		(172,897)	(177,571)	(142,360)
(Losses) gains on early extinguishment of debt, net																		(6,918)	(29,158)	468
Other (expense) income, net																		(113)	1,780	(558)
Income from continuing operations before income taxes		113,699	[1]	74,045	[1]	84,489	[1]	98,118	[1]	177,591	[1]	91,735	[1]	69,316	[1]	63,958	[1]	370,351	402,600	245,206
Provision for income taxes		41,249		26,118		31,007		36,653		90,982		74,934		37,357		22,707		(135,027)	(225,980)	(93,024)
Income from continuing operations		72,450		47,927		53,482		61,465		86,609		16,801		31,959		41,251		235,324	176,620	152,182
Net (loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax		0		0		(390)		0		1,340		884		(178)		140		(390)	2,186	406
Net income		72,450		47,927		53,092		61,465		87,949		17,685		31,781		41,391		234,934	178,806	152,588
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests		(96)		(479)		(497)		(90)		(155)		(34)		(5,859)		(289)		(1,162)	(6,337)	(5,256)
Net income attributable to common stockholders		$ 72,354		$ 47,448		$ 52,595		$ 61,375		$ 87,794		$ 17,651		$ 25,922		$ 41,102		$ 233,772	$ 172,469	$ 147,332
Basic earnings per share:
Net income attributable to common stockholders, basic		$ 0.37	[2]	$ 0.24	[2]	$ 0.26	[2]	$ 0.30	[2]	$ 0.42	[2]	$ 0.08	[2]	$ 0.12	[2]	$ 0.19	[2]	$ 1.17	$ 0.82	$ 0.70
Basic weighted average number of shares																		200,356	210,741	211,811
Diluted earnings per share:
Net income attributable to common stockholders, diluted		0.36	[2]	$ 0.23	[2]	$ 0.25	[2]	$ 0.30	[2]	$ 0.42	[2]	$ 0.08	[2]	$ 0.12	[2]	$ 0.19	[2]	$ 1.14	$ 0.81	$ 0.68
Diluted weighted average number of shares																		204,450	214,200	216,014
Dividends declared per share	$ 0.12	$ 0.12																$ 0.44	$ 0.34	$ 0.27
[1]	Includes (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net, as described in Note 19.
[2]	Net income per share is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of the quarters’ net income per share may not equal the total computed for the year.

Consolidated Statement of Compr

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 234,934	$ 178,806	$ 152,588
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(53,283)	(32,096)	(23,292)
Reclassification of foreign currency translation adjustments to discontinued operations	0	3,114	0
Total comprehensive income	181,651	149,824	129,296
Total comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(1,129)	(6,382)	(5,240)
Total comprehensive income attributable to common stockholders	$ 180,522	$ 143,442	$ 124,056

Consolidated Balance Sheet

Consolidated Balance Sheet - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 134,599	$ 177,335
Receivables, net	90,462	109,050
Inventories	27,835	29,697
Other	55,513	80,774
Total current assets	308,409	396,856
Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments	1,760,297	1,843,023
Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments	2,318,167	2,306,669
Cemetery property	1,753,015	1,739,216
Property and equipment, net	1,846,722	1,861,403
Goodwill	1,796,340	1,810,853
Deferred charges and other assets	616,511	624,248
Cemetery perpetual care trust investments	1,319,427	1,341,376
Total assets	11,718,888	11,923,644
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	422,842	453,042
Current maturities of long-term debt	95,181	90,931
Income taxes payable	1,373	8,035
Total current liabilities	519,396	552,008
Long-term debt	3,071,738	2,963,794
Deferred preneed funeral revenue	557,897	540,164
Deferred preneed cemetery revenue	1,120,001	1,062,381
Deferred tax liability	470,584	448,824
Other liabilities	496,921	502,553
Deferred preneed receipts held in trust	2,973,386	3,148,884
Care trusts’ corpus	$ 1,319,564	$ 1,327,658
Commitments and contingencies (Note 11)
Equity:
Common stock, $1 per share par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 200,859,676 and 205,458,331 shares issued, respectively, and 195,772,876 and 204,866,770 shares outstanding, respectively	$ 195,773	$ 204,867
Capital in excess of par value	1,092,106	1,186,304
Accumulated deficit	(109,351)	(81,859)
Accumulated other comprehensive income	6,164	59,414
Total common stockholders’ equity	1,184,692	1,368,726
Noncontrolling interests	4,709	8,652
Total equity	1,189,401	1,377,378
Total liabilities and equity	$ 11,718,888	$ 11,923,644

Consolidated Balance Sheet (Par

Consolidated Balance Sheet (Parentheticals) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Common stock, par or stated value per share	$ 1	$ 1
Common stock, shares authorized	500,000,000	500,000,000
Common stock, shares, issued	200,859,676	205,458,331
Common stock, shares outstanding	195,772,876	204,866,770

Consolidated Statement of Cash

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 234,934	$ 178,806	$ 152,588
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax	390	(2,186)	(406)
Losses (gains) on early extinguishment of debt, net	6,918	29,158	(468)
Premiums paid on early extinguishment of debt	(6,549)	(24,804)	0
Depreciation and amortization	141,456	140,002	122,235
Amortization of intangible assets	31,459	36,640	21,859
Amortization of cemetery property	62,407	60,439	48,344
Amortization of loan costs	9,434	8,825	15,943
Provision for doubtful accounts	6,083	7,376	7,874
Provision for deferred income taxes	18,048	129,671	71,708
(Gains) losses on divestitures and impairment charges, net	(6,522)	(116,613)	6,263
Share-based compensation	13,843	13,127	11,925
Excess tax benefits from share-based awards	(18,123)	(30,123)	0
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects from acquisitions and divestitures:
Decrease (increase) in receivables	464	(18,644)	11,017
Decrease (increase) in other assets	2,457	(11,013)	(14,815)
Increase (decrease) in payables and other liabilities	20,567	(12,038)	(1,995)
Effect of preneed funeral production and maturities:
Decrease in preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments	24,918	30,357	47,648
Increase (decrease) in deferred preneed funeral revenue	6,199	(23,069)	(9,260)
Decrease in deferred preneed receipts held in trust	(52,946)	(52,869)	(50,990)
Effect of cemetery production and maturities:
Increase in preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments	(73,038)	(43,964)	(73,626)
Increase in deferred preneed cemetery revenue	60,960	54,049	30,785
Decrease in deferred preneed receipts held in trust	(11,173)	(34,664)	(12,761)
Other	0	(108)	(27)
Net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations	472,186	318,355	383,841
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities from discontinued operations	0	(1,000)	868
Net cash provided by operating activities	472,186	317,355	384,709
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	(150,986)	(144,499)	(112,939)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	41,258	15,336	1,057,122
Proceeds from divestitures and sales of property and equipment	16,772	424,383	13,219
Net withdrawals (deposits) of restricted funds and other	(8,066)	12,225	(341)
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities from continuing operations	(167,406)	252,323	(1,156,501)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities from discontinued operations	987	4,963	(292)
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities	(166,419)	257,286	(1,156,793)
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	446,250	755,000	1,055,000
Debt issuance costs	(6,025)	(10,500)	(36,064)
Payments of debt	(160,220)	(230,561)	(90,466)
Early extinguishment of debt	(197,377)	(762,764)	(80)
Principal payments on capital leases	(28,601)	(29,380)	(26,280)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	31,809	32,376	6,309
Excess tax benefits from share-based awards	18,123	30,123	0
Purchase of Company common stock	(345,261)	(242,874)	(1,708)
Payments of dividends	87,570	71,517	57,229
Purchase of noncontrolling interest	(2,075)	(15,000)	(23,333)
Bank overdrafts and other	(7,531)	7,130	336
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities from continued operations	(338,478)	(537,967)	826,485
Net cash used in financing activities from discontinued operations	0	0	(1,370)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	(338,478)	(537,967)	825,115
Change in cash from discontinued operations	0	1,361	785
Effect of foreign currency	(10,025)	(2,284)	(1,001)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	(42,736)	35,751	52,815
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	177,335	141,584	88,769
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$ 134,599	$ 177,335	$ 141,584

Consolidated Statement of Equit

Consolidated Statement of Equity - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock	Treasury Stock	Capital in Excess of Par Value	Accumulated Deficit(1)	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Noncontrolling Interest
Balance at beginning of period at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 1,415,193	$ 211,057	$ (10)	$ 1,307,058	$ (234,429)	$ 111,717	$ 19,800
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward]
Comprehensive income	129,296	0	0	0	147,332	(23,276)	5,240
Dividends declared on common stock	(57,229)	0	0	(57,229)	0	0	0
Stock option exercises	9,313	1,087	0	8,226	0	0	0
Restricted stock awards, net of forfeitures	0	378	(3)	(375)	0	0	0
Employee share-based compensation earned	11,925	0	0	11,925	0	0	0
Purchase of Company common stock	(4,712)	0	(275)	(1,508)	(2,929)	0	0
Tax benefits related to stock-based awards	30,123
Purchase of noncontrolling interest	(23,333)	0	0	(10,023)	0	0	(13,310)
Acquisition	118	0	0	0	0	0	118
Noncontrolling interest payments	$ (1,700)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ (1,700)
Retirement of treasury shares	0	(278)	(278)	0	0	0	0
Other	$ 1,357	$ 83	$ 0	$ 1,274	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Balance at end of period at Dec. 31, 2013	1,480,228	212,327	(10)	1,259,348	(90,026)	88,441	10,148
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward]
Comprehensive income	149,824	0	0	0	172,469	(29,027)	6,382
Dividends declared on common stock	(71,517)	0	0	(71,517)	0	0	0
Stock option exercises	33,137	3,642	0	29,495	0	0	0
Restricted stock awards, net of forfeitures	0	352	0	(352)	0	0	0
Employee share-based compensation earned	13,127	0	0	13,127	0	0	0
Purchase of Company common stock	(243,635)	0	(11,537)	(67,796)	(164,302)	0	0
Tax benefits related to stock-based awards		0	0	30,123	0	0	0
Purchase of noncontrolling interest	(15,000)	0	0	(7,441)	0	0	(7,559)
Noncontrolling interest payments	$ (319)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ (319)
Retirement of treasury shares	0	(10,956)	(10,956)	0	0	0	0
Other	$ 1,410	$ 93	$ 0	$ 1,317	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Balance at end of period at Dec. 31, 2014	1,377,378	205,458	(591)	1,186,304	(81,859)	59,414	8,652
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward]
Comprehensive income	181,651	0	0	0	233,772	(53,250)	1,129
Dividends declared on common stock	(87,570)	0	0	(87,570)	0	0	0
Stock option exercises	31,931	3,054	0	28,877	0	0	0
Restricted stock awards, net of forfeitures	0	254	(9)	(245)	0	0	0
Employee share-based compensation earned	13,843	0	0	13,843	0	0	0
Purchase of Company common stock	(345,383)	0	(12,455)	(71,664)	(261,264)	0	0
Tax benefits related to stock-based awards	18,123	0	0	18,123	0	0	0
Purchase of noncontrolling interest	(2,075)	0	0	(2,775)	0	0	(4,850)
Noncontrolling interest payments	$ (222)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ (222)
Retirement of treasury shares	0	(7,969)	(7,969)	0	0	0
Other	$ 1,725	$ 62	$ 0	$ 1,663	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Balance at end of period at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 1,189,401	$ 200,859	$ (5,086)	$ 1,092,106	$ (109,351)	$ 6,164	$ 4,709

Consolidated Statement of Equi8

Consolidated Statement of Equity (Parentheticals) - $ / shares	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 11, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Dividends declared per share	$ 0.12	$ 0.12	$ 0.44	$ 0.34	$ 0.27

Nature of Operations Level 1 (N

Nature of Operations Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Nature of Operations [Abstract]
Nature of Operations [Text Block]	Nature of Operations We are North America’s largest provider of deathcare products and services, with a network of funeral service locations and cemeteries operating in the United States and Canada. Our funeral service and cemetery operations consist of funeral service locations, cemeteries, funeral service/cemetery combination locations, crematoria, and related businesses, which enable us to serve a wide array of customer needs. We sell cemetery property and funeral and cemetery merchandise and services at the time of need and on a preneed basis. Funeral service locations provide all professional services relating to funerals and cremations, including the use of funeral facilities and motor vehicles, arranging and directing services, removal, preparation, embalming, cremations, memorialization, and catering. Funeral merchandise, including burial caskets and related accessories, urns and other cremation receptacles, outer burial containers, flowers, online and video tributes, stationery products, casket and cremation memorialization products, and other ancillary merchandise, is sold at funeral service locations. Our cemeteries provide cemetery property interment rights, including developed lots, lawn crypts, mausoleum spaces, niches, and other cremation memorialization and interment options. Cemetery merchandise and services, including memorial markers and bases, outer burial containers, flowers and floral placement, other ancillary merchandise, graveside services, merchandise installation, and burial openings and closings, are sold at our cemeteries.

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Service Corporation International (SCI) and all subsidiaries in which we hold a controlling financial interest. Our financial statements also include the accounts of the funeral merchandise and service trusts, cemetery merchandise and service trusts, and cemetery perpetual care trusts in which we have a variable interest and are the primary beneficiary. Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Reclassifications Prior Period Financial Statements Certain reclassifications have been made to prior period amounts to conform to the current period financial statement presentation with no effect on our previously reported results of operations, consolidated financial position, or cash flows. Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that may affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. As a result, actual results could differ from these estimates. Cash and Cash Equivalents We consider all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. The carrying amounts of our cash and cash equivalents approximate fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments. Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Our trade receivables primarily consist of amounts due for funeral services already performed. We provide various allowances and cancellation reserves for our funeral and cemetery preneed and atneed receivables as well as for our preneed funeral and preneed cemetery deferred revenues. These allowances are based on an analysis of historical trends of collection and cancellation activity. Atneed funeral and cemetery receivables are considered past due after 30 days. Collections are generally managed by the locations or third party agencies acting on behalf of the locations, until a receivable is 180 days delinquent at which time it is fully reserved and sent to a collection agency. These estimates are impacted by a number of factors, including changes in the economy, relocation, and demographic or competitive changes in our areas of operation. Inventories and Cemetery Property Funeral and cemetery merchandise are stated at the lower of average cost or market. Cemetery property is recorded at cost. Inventory costs and cemetery property are relieved using specific identification in performance of a contract. Amortization expense for cemetery property was $62.4 million , $60.4 million , and $48.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. Property and Equipment, Net Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense whereas renewals and major replacements that extend the assets useful lives are capitalized. Depreciation is recognized ratably over the estimated useful lives of the various classes of assets. Buildings are depreciated over a period ranging from seven to forty years, equipment is depreciated over a period from three to eight years, and leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term or ten years. Depreciation and amortization expense related to property and equipment was $141.5 million , $140.0 million , and $122.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. When property is sold or retired, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the Consolidated Balance Sheet; resulting gains and losses are included in the Consolidated Statement of Operations in the period of sale or disposal. Leases We have lease arrangements related to funeral service locations and transportation equipment that were primarily classified as capital leases at December 31, 2015 . Lease terms related to funeral service locations generally range from one to 40 years with options to renew at varying terms. Lease terms related to transportation equipment generally range from one to five years with options to renew at varying terms. We calculate operating lease expense ratably over the lease term. We consider reasonably assured renewal options and fixed escalation provisions in our calculation. For more information related to leases, see Note 11. Goodwill The excess of purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired in business combinations is recorded as goodwill. Goodwill is tested annually during the fourth quarter for impairment by assessing the fair value of each of our reporting units. Our goodwill impairment test involves estimates and management judgment. In the first step of our goodwill impairment test, we compare the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying amount, including goodwill. We determine fair value of each reporting unit using both a market and income approach. Our methodology considers discounted cash flows and multiples of EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization). The discounted cash flow valuation uses projections of future cash flows and includes assumptions concerning future operating performance and economic conditions that may differ from actual future cash flows. We do not record an impairment of goodwill in instances where the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount. If the aggregate fair value is less than the related carrying amount for a reporting unit, we compare the implied fair value of goodwill to the carrying amount of goodwill. If the carrying amount of reporting unit goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. For our most recent annual impairment test performed in the fourth quarter, we used a 6.5% discount rate, growth rates ranging from 1.7% to 7.0% over a five-year period, plus a terminal value determined using the constant growth method in projecting our future cash flows. Fair value was calculated as the sum of the projected discounted cash flows of our reporting units over the next five years plus terminal value at the end of those five years. Our terminal value was calculated using a long-term growth rate of 2.5% and 2.9% for our funeral and cemetery reporting units, respectively. In addition to our annual review, we assess the impairment of goodwill whenever certain events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be greater than fair value. Factors that could trigger an interim impairment review include, but are not limited to, significant underperformance relative to historical or projected future operating results and significant negative industry or economic trends. No interim goodwill impairment reviews were required in 2015 or 2014 . For more information related to goodwill, see Note 7. Other Intangible Assets Our intangible assets include customer relationships, trademarks and tradenames, and other intangible assets primarily resulting from acquisitions. Our trademark and tradenames and certain other intangible assets are considered to have an indefinite life and are not subject to amortization. We test for impairment of intangible assets annually during the fourth quarter. Our intangible assets impairment tests involve estimates and management judgment. For trademark and tradenames, our test uses the relief from royalty method whereby we determine the fair value of the assets by discounting the cash flows that represent a savings over having to pay a royalty fee for use of the trademark and tradenames. The discounted cash flow valuation uses projections of future cash flows and includes assumptions concerning future operating performance and economic conditions that may differ from actual future cash flows. For our most recent annual impairment test performed in the fourth quarter, we estimated that the pre-tax savings would range from 1.0% to 4.0% of the revenues associated with the trademark and tradenames, based primarily on our research of intellectual property valuation and licensing databases. We also assumed a terminal growth rate of 2.5% and 2.9% for our funeral and cemetery segments, respectively, and discounted the cash flows at a 6.7% discount rate based on the relative risk of these assets to our overall business. In addition to our annual review, we assess the impairment of intangible assets whenever certain events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be greater than the fair value. Factors that could trigger an interim impairment review include, but are not limited to, significant under-performance relative to historical or projected future operating results and significant negative industry or economic trends. No interim intangible impairment reviews were required in 2015 or 2014 . Certain of our intangible assets associated with prior acquisitions are relieved using specific identification in performance of a contract. We amortize all other finite-lived intangible assets on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives which range from two to forty years. For more information related to intangible assets, see Note 7. Fair Value Measurements We measure the available-for-sale securities held by our funeral merchandise and service, cemetery merchandise and service, and cemetery perpetual care trusts at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. We utilize a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosure of fair value measurements. The valuation hierarchy is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability as of the measurement date. The three levels are defined as follows: • Level 1 — inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets; • Level 2 — inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument; and • Level 3 — inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement. An asset’s or liability’s categorization within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Certain available-for-sale securities held by our funeral merchandise and service, cemetery merchandise and service, and cemetery perpetual care trusts have been classified in Level 3 of the hierarchy due to the significant management judgment required as a result of the absence of quoted market prices, inherent lack of liquidity, or the long-term nature of the securities. For additional disclosures for all of our available-for-sale securities, see Notes 3, 4, and 5. Treasury Stock We make treasury stock purchases in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions subject to market conditions and normal trading restrictions. We account for the repurchase of our common stock under the par value method. In 2015 , we canceled 8.0 million shares of common stock held in our treasury. We canceled 11.0 million and 0.3 million shares of common stock held in our treasury in 2014 and 2013 , respectively. These retired treasury shares were changed to authorized but unissued status. Foreign Currency Translation All assets and liabilities of our foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates in effect as of the end of the reporting period. Revenue and expense items are translated at the average exchange rates for the reporting period. The resulting translation adjustments are included in Equity as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive income in the Consolidated Statement of Equity and Consolidated Balance Sheet. The functional currency of SCI and its subsidiaries is the respective local currency. The transactional currency gains and losses that arise from transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currencies of our operations are recorded in Other (expense) income , net in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. We do not have an investment in foreign operations considered to be in highly inflationary economies. Funeral Operations Revenue is recognized when funeral merchandise is delivered or funeral services are performed. We sell price-guaranteed preneed funeral contracts through various programs providing for future funeral services at prices prevailing when the agreements are signed. Revenue associated with sales of preneed funeral contracts is deferred until funeral merchandise is delivered or the funeral services are performed, generally at the time of need. Travel protection insurance and certain memorialization merchandise sold on a preneed basis is delivered to the customer at the time of sale and is recognized at the time delivery has occurred. While these items are sold as part of preneed funeral arrangements they are also offered on a stand-alone basis. The total consideration received for these arrangements is allocated to each item based on relative selling price determined using either vendor specific objective evidence of the selling price or third-party evidence of selling price. Vendor specific objective evidence of the selling price is determined based on the price we sell the items for on a stand-alone basis. Third-party evidence of selling price is based on the price of our largely interchangeable products that are sold in stand-alone sales to similarly situated customers. There is no general right of return for delivered items. Pursuant to state or provincial law, all or a portion of the proceeds from funeral merchandise or services sold on a preneed basis may be required to be paid into trust funds. We defer investment earnings related to these merchandise and service trusts until the associated merchandise is delivered or services are performed. Costs related to sales of merchandise and services are charged to expense when merchandise is delivered or services are performed. Sales taxes collected are recognized on a net basis in our consolidated financial statements. See Note 3 for more information regarding preneed funeral activities. Cemetery Operations Revenue associated with sales of cemetery merchandise and services is recognized when merchandise is delivered or the service is performed. Revenue associated with sales of preneed cemetery property interment rights is deferred until the property is constructed and a minimum of 10% of the sales price is collected. For non-personalized merchandise (such as vaults) and services, we defer the revenues until the merchandise is delivered or the services are performed. For personalized marker merchandise, with the customer’s direction generally obtained at the time of sale, we can choose to order, store, and transfer title to the customer. In situations in which we have no further obligation or involvement related to the merchandise, we recognize revenues and record the cost of sales upon the earlier of vendor storage of these items or delivery in our cemetery. The total consideration received for these arrangements is allocated to each item based on relative selling price determined using vendor specific objective evidence of the selling price. Vendor specific objective evidence of the selling price is determined based on the price we sell the items for on a stand-alone basis. There is no general right of return for delivered items. Pursuant to state or provincial law, all or a portion of the proceeds from cemetery merchandise or services sold on a preneed basis may be required to be paid into trust funds. We defer investment earnings related to these merchandise and services trusts until the associated merchandise is delivered or services are performed. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of cemetery property interment rights is required by state or provincial law to be paid into perpetual care trust funds. Investment earnings from these trusts are distributed to us regularly, are recognized in current cemetery revenues, and are intended to defray cemetery maintenance costs, which are expensed as incurred. The principal of such perpetual care trust funds generally cannot be withdrawn. Costs related to the sale of property interment rights include the property and construction costs specifically identified by project. Property and construction costs are charged to expense when the revenue is recognized by specific identification in the performance of a contract. Costs related to sales of merchandise and services are charged to expense when merchandise is delivered or when services are performed. Sales taxes collected are recognized on a net basis in our consolidated financial statements. See Notes 4 and 5 for more information regarding preneed cemetery and perpetual care activities. Preneed Funeral and Cemetery Receivables We sell preneed contracts whereby the customer enters into arrangements for future merchandise and services prior to the time of need. As these contracts are entered into prior to the delivery of the related merchandise and services, the preneed funeral and cemetery receivables are offset by a comparable deferred revenue amount. These receivables have an interest component for which interest income is recorded when the interest amount is considered collectible and realizable, which typically coincides with cash payment. We do not accrue interest on financing receivables that are not paid in accordance with the contractual payment date given the nature of our merchandise and services, the nature of our contracts with customers, and the timing of the delivery of our services. We do not consider receivables to be past due until the merchandise or services are required to be delivered at which time the preneed receivable is paid or reclassified as a trade receivable with payment terms of less than 30 days. As the preneed funeral and cemetery receivables are offset by comparable deferred revenue amounts, we have no risk of loss related to these receivables. If a preneed contract is canceled prior to delivery, state or provincial law determines the amount of the refund owed to the customer, if any, including the amount of the attributed investment earnings. Upon cancellation, we receive the amount of principal deposited to the trust and previously undistributed net investment earnings and, where required, issue a refund to the customer. We retain excess funds, if any, and recognize the attributed investment earnings (net of any investment earnings payable to the customer) as revenue in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. In certain jurisdictions, we may be obligated to fund any shortfall if the amount deposited by the customer exceeds the funds in trust. Based on our historical experience, we have provided an allowance for cancellation of these receivables, which is recorded as a reduction in receivables with a corresponding offset to deferred revenue. Income Taxes We compute income taxes using the liability method. Our ability to realize the benefit of our deferred tax assets requires us to achieve certain future earnings levels. We have established a valuation allowance against a portion of our deferred tax assets and we could be required to further adjust that valuation allowance in the near term if market conditions change materially and future earnings are, or are projected to be, significantly different than our current estimates. An increase in the valuation allowance would result in additional income tax expense in such period. In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) amended the Income Taxes accounting standard to to eliminate a diversity in practice for the presentation of unrecognized tax benefits when net operating loss carryforwards, similar tax losses, or tax credit carryforwards exist. The amendment requires that the unrecognized tax benefit be presented as a reduction of the deferred tax assets associated with the carryforwards except in certain circumstances when it would be reflected as a liability. We adopted this amendment effective January 1, 2014 with no impact on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, or cash flows. In November 2015, the FASB amended the Income Taxes accounting standard to simplify the presentation of deferred income taxes, by requiring all deferred tax assets and liabilities, along with any related valuation allowance, to be classified as non-current on the balance sheet. Our prospective adoption of this guidance in the fourth quarter of 2015 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Revenue Recognition In May 2014 , the FASB issued the Revenue from Contracts with Customers accounting standard, which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in the Revenue Recognition accounting standard and most industry-specific guidance. This new standard is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. It also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, and timing of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. Additionally, the new standard requires the deferral of direct incremental selling costs to the period in which the underlying revenue is recognized. In August 2015, the FASB issued an amendment that defers implementation of the Revenue from Contracts with Customers accounting standard for all entities by one year. The new standard will be effective for us beginning January 1, 2018 and we intend to implement the standard with the modified retrospective approach, which recognizes the cumulative effect of application recognized on that date. We are evaluating the impact of adoption on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows. Consolidation In February 2015, the FASB amended the Consolidation accounting standard to revise the consolidation model for limited partnerships, variable interest entities, and certain investment funds. Further, the amendment provides guidance on how fee arrangements and related parties should be considered when determining whether to consolidate variable interest entities. As a result of this amendment, all legal entities are required to be reevaluated to determine if they should be consolidated. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2016 and adoption will have no impact on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows. Debt Issuance Costs In April 2015, the FASB amended the Interest—Imputation of Interest accounting standard to simplify the presentation of debt issuance costs on the balance sheet. Currently, debt issuance costs are included in Other current assets and Deferred charges and other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. The amendment requires that these costs instead be presented as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of Current maturities of long-term debt and Long-term debt , consistent with the presentation of debt discounts. In August 2015, the FASB issued an additional amendment that provides additional guidance to the Interest—Imputation of Interest accounting standard since it did not address presentation or subsequent measurement of debt issuance costs related to line-of-credit arrangements. The amendment noted that the SEC staff would not object to an entity deferring and presenting debt issuance costs as an asset and subsequently amortizing the deferred debt issuance costs ratably over the term of the line-of-credit arrangement, regardless of whether there are any outstanding borrowings on the line-of-credit arrangement. This change does not impact the manner in which the debt issuance costs are expensed over the term of the debt. The change in presentation is effective for us on January 1, 2016. As of December 31, 2015 , the effect of these amendments would have been to reduce Other current assets and Current maturities of long-term debt by $ 9.5 million and to reduce Deferred charges and other assets and Long-term debt by $35.9 million . As of December 31, 2014 the effect of these amendments would have been to reduce Other current assets and Current maturities of long-term debt by $9.2 million and to reduce Deferred charges and other assets and Long-term debt by $39.7 million . Cloud Computing Arrangements In April 2015, the FASB amended the Intangibles—Goodwill and Other—Internal-Use Software accounting standard to provide guidance on whether a cloud computing arrangement contains a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, then we should account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. If a cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, we should account for the arrangement as a service contract. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2016 and adoption will have no impact on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows. Fair Value Measurements In May 2015, the FASB amended the Fair Value Measurements accounting standard to remove the requirement to disclose the fair value measurement hierarchy level associated with investments measured at net asset value as a practical expedient. Other disclosures required by the standard for these assets remain the same. This amendment does not change the underlying accounting for these investments. The new guidance is effective for us with our first quarter 2016 filing on Form 10-Q. Inventory In July 2015, the FASB amended the Inventory accounting standard to state that an entity using an inventory method other than last-in, first out ("LIFO") or the retail inventory method should measure inventory at the lower of cost and net realizable value. The new guidance clarifies that net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2017, and we are still evaluating the impact of adoption on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows. Business Combinations In September 2015, the FASB amended the Business Combinations accounting standard to eliminate the requirement for an acquirer in a business combination to account for measurement-period adjustments retrospectively. Under the new guidance, acquirers must recognize measurement-period adjustments in the period in which they determine the amount of the adjustment. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2016 and will be applied prospectively to measurement-period adjustments occurring after the effective date, if any. Financial Instruments In January 2016, the FASB amended the Financial Instruments accounting standard to provide additional guidance on the recognition and measurement of financial assets and liabilities. The amendment requires investments in equity instruments to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value reflected in net income. The amendment also changes the guidance for debt securities held at amortized cost and liabilities under the fair value option. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2018, and we are still evaluating the impact of adoption on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows.

Preneed Funeral Activities Leve

Preneed Funeral Activities Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Funeral [Member]
Preneed Funeral Activities Text Block	Preneed Funeral Activities Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments represent trust investments, including investment earnings, and customer receivables, net of unearned finance charges, related to unperformed, price-guaranteed preneed funeral contracts. Our funeral merchandise and service trusts are variable interest entities. We have determined that we are the primary beneficiary of these trusts, as we absorb a majority of the losses and returns associated with these trusts. Our cemetery trust investments detailed in Notes 4 and 5 are also accounted for as variable interest entities. When we receive payments from the customer, we deposit the amount required by law into the trust and reclassify the corresponding amount from Deferred preneed funeral revenues into Deferred preneed receipts held in trust. Amounts are withdrawn from the trusts after the contract obligations are performed. Cash flows from preneed funeral contracts are presented as operating cash flows in our Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments are reduced by the trust investment earnings (realized and unrealized) that we have been allowed to withdraw in certain states prior to maturity. These earnings are recorded in Deferred preneed funeral revenues until the merchandise is delivered or the service is performed. The table below sets forth certain investment-related activities associated with our preneed funeral merchandise and service trusts for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Deposits $ 121,109 $ 102,553 $ 82,168 Withdrawals $ 160,135 $ 131,352 $ 125,914 Purchases of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 453,092 $ 1,238,257 $ 393,169 Sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 458,236 $ 1,318,512 $ 435,267 Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 42,034 $ 168,567 $ 65,011 Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ (31,403 ) $ (113,748 ) $ (9,732 ) (1) The increase in activity in 2014 is the result of changing the legal structure of the trust investments. The components of Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31 were as follows: 2015 2014 (In thousands) Trust investments, at market $ 1,109,394 $ 1,205,747 Cash and cash equivalents 134,642 162,229 Assets associated with businesses held for sale (39 ) — Insurance-backed fixed income securities 271,116 260,899 Trust investments 1,515,113 1,628,875 Receivables from customers 290,689 262,700 Unearned finance charge (11,235 ) (11,054 ) 1,794,567 1,880,521 Allowance for cancellation (34,270 ) (37,498 ) Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments $ 1,760,297 $ 1,843,023 The activity in Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments for the years ended December 31 was as follows: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments $ 1,843,023 $ 1,870,243 $ 1,536,257 Net preneed contract sales 283,927 247,994 192,712 Cash receipts from customers, net of refunds (234,413 ) (211,830 ) (170,921 ) Deposits to trust 121,109 102,553 82,168 Acquisitions (divestitures) of businesses, net 1,400 (19,203 ) 271,395 Net undistributed investment (losses) earnings (1) (38,510 ) 22,480 125,986 Maturities and distributed earnings (200,635 ) (162,059 ) (153,446 ) Change in cancellation allowance 2,787 7,644 (3,245 ) Effect of foreign currency and other (18,391 ) (14,799 ) (10,663 ) Ending balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments $ 1,760,297 $ 1,843,023 $ 1,870,243 (1) Includes both realized and unrealized investment earnings. The cost and market values associated with our funeral merchandise and service trust investments recorded at fair value at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are detailed below. Cost reflects the investment (net of redemptions) of control holders in the trusts. Fair value represents the value of the underlying securities held by the trusts. December 31, 2015 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 82,417 $ 107 $ (1,331 ) $ 81,193 Canadian government 2 72,488 532 (655 ) 72,365 Corporate 2 19,036 235 (284 ) 18,987 Residential mortgage-backed 2 1,297 29 (22 ) 1,304 Asset-backed 2 5 — — 5 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 1,949 41 (158 ) 1,832 Common stock: United States 1 344,116 30,885 (19,149 ) 355,852 Canada 1 11,930 2,652 (1,077 ) 13,505 Other international 1 32,156 2,636 (3,907 ) 30,885 Mutual funds: Equity 1 323,884 1,263 (43,975 ) 281,172 Fixed income 1 155,717 154 (13,092 ) 142,779 Commingled funds: Fixed income 2 69,148 — (442 ) 68,706 Private equity 3 38,201 3,703 (6,467 ) 35,437 Other 3 4,226 1,146 — 5,372 Trust investments $ 1,156,570 $ 43,383 $ (90,559 ) $ 1,109,394 December 31, 2014 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 85,775 $ 468 $ (455 ) $ 85,788 Canadian government 2 90,430 449 (874 ) 90,005 Corporate 2 24,765 423 (126 ) 25,062 Residential mortgage-backed 2 1,325 29 (12 ) 1,342 Asset-backed 2 6 — — 6 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 2,503 113 (113 ) 2,503 Common stock: United States 1 377,441 18,533 (7,405 ) 388,569 Canada 1 14,708 4,292 (895 ) 18,105 Other international 1 38,035 1,175 (1,560 ) 37,650 Mutual funds: Equity 1 308,548 3,332 (15,901 ) 295,979 Fixed income 1 229,414 869 (3,576 ) 226,707 Private equity 3 35,094 2,649 (9,418 ) 28,325 Other 3 5,084 726 (104 ) 5,706 Trust investments $ 1,213,128 $ 33,058 $ (40,439 ) $ 1,205,747 Where quoted prices are available in an active market, securities are classified as Level 1 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. Where quoted market prices are not available for the specific security, fair values are estimated by using either quoted prices of securities with similar characteristics or an income approach fair value model with observable inputs that include a combination of interest rates, yield curves, credit risks, prepayment speeds, rating, and tax-exempt status. Commingled funds are measured at and readily redeemable for net asset value. These securities are classified as Level 2 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. The valuation of private equity and other alternative investments requires management judgment due to the absence of quoted market prices, inherent lack of liquidity, and the long-term nature of such assets. The fair value of these investments is estimated based on the value of the underlying real estate and private equity investments. The underlying real estate value is determined using the most recent available appraisals. Private equity instruments are valued based on reported net asset values. Valuation policies and procedures are determined by our Trust Services department, which reports to our Chief Financial Officer. Additionally, valuations are reviewed by the Investment Committee of the Board of Directors quarterly. These securities are classified as Level 3 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. As of December 31, 2015 , our unfunded commitment for our private equity and other investments was $41.9 million which, if called, would be funded by the assets of the trusts. Our private equity and other investments include several funds that invest in limited partnerships, distressed debt, real estate, and mezzanine financing. These investments can never be redeemed by the funds. Instead, the nature of the investments in this category is that the distributions are received through the liquidation of the underlying assets of the funds. We estimate that the underlying assets will be liquidated over the next 2 to 10 years. The change in our market-based funeral merchandise and service trust investments with significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) is as follows for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 : 2015 2014 2013 Private Equity Other Private Equity Other Private Equity Other (In thousands) Fair value, beginning balance at January 1, $ 28,325 $ 5,706 $ 26,885 $ 1,808 $ 17,879 $ 744 Net unrealized gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (1) 6,449 214 2,242 826 13,429 1,442 Net realized losses included in Other income (expense), net (2) (44 ) (15 ) (39 ) (6 ) (43 ) (3 ) Purchases — 32 — 3,214 1,188 — Sales (36 ) — — — — — Contributions 7,464 1,297 6,122 4 3,229 — Distributions and other (6,721 ) (1,862 ) (6,885 ) (140 ) (9,245 ) (393 ) Acquisitions — — — — 448 18 Fair value, ending balance at December 31, $ 35,437 $ 5,372 $ 28,325 $ 5,706 $ 26,885 $ 1,808 (1) All unrealized gains recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income for our funeral merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Accumulated other comprehensive income to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . (2) All losses recognized in Other income (expense), net for our funeral merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Other income (expense), net to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . Maturity dates of our fixed income securities range from 2016 to 2045 . Maturities of fixed income securities at December 31, 2015 are estimated as follows: Fair Value (In thousands) Due in one year or less $ 107,784 Due in one to five years 25,635 Due in five to ten years 26,390 Thereafter 14,045 $ 173,854 Earnings from all our funeral merchandise and service trust investments are recognized in funeral revenues when merchandise is delivered or a service is performed. Fees charged by our wholly-owned registered investment advisor are also included in current revenues in the period in which they are earned. In addition, we are entitled to retain, in certain jurisdictions, a portion of collected customer payments when a customer cancels a preneed contract; these amounts are also recognized in current revenues. Recognized earnings (realized and unrealized) related to our funeral merchandise and service trust investments were $52.9 million , $62.8 million , and $48.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. We assess our trust investments for other-than-temporary declines in fair value on a quarterly basis. Impairment charges resulting from this assessment are recognized as investment losses in Other income (expense), net and a decrease to Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments . These investment losses, if any, are offset by the corresponding reclassification in Other (expense) income, net, which reduces Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . For the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , we recorded a $3.5 million , a $41.8 million , and a $0.8 million , respectively, impairment charge for other-than-temporary declines in fair value related to unrealized losses on certain investments. We have determined that the remaining unrealized losses in our funeral merchandise and service trust investments are considered temporary in nature, as the unrealized losses were due to temporary fluctuations in interest rates and equity prices. The investments are diversified across multiple industry segments using a balanced allocation strategy to minimize long-term risk. We believe that none of the securities are other-than-temporarily impaired based on our analysis of the investments. Our analysis included a review of the portfolio holdings and discussions with the individual money managers as to the sector exposures, credit ratings, and the severity and duration of the unrealized losses. Our funeral merchandise and service trust investment unrealized losses, their associated fair values, and the duration of unrealized losses for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , are shown in the following tables. December 31, 2015 In Loss Position Less Than 12 Months In Loss Position Greater Than 12 Months Total Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury $ 37,008 $ (1,273 ) $ 4,687 $ (58 ) $ 41,695 $ (1,331 ) Canadian government 2,336 (17 ) 11,535 (638 ) 13,871 (655 ) Corporate 4,644 (156 ) 4,025 (128 ) 8,669 (284 ) Residential mortgage-backed 377 (6 ) 133 (16 ) 510 (22 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 448 (60 ) 42 (98 ) 490 (158 ) Common stock: United States 128,725 (16,448 ) 14,531 (2,701 ) 143,256 (19,149 ) Canada 1,956 (355 ) 1,097 (722 ) 3,053 (1,077 ) Other international 9,458 (1,638 ) 6,151 (2,269 ) 15,609 (3,907 ) Mutual funds: Equity 185,726 (23,385 ) 79,855 (20,590 ) 265,581 (43,975 ) Fixed income 108,984 (5,052 ) 27,048 (8,040 ) 136,032 (13,092 ) Commingled funds: Fixed income 68,578 (442 ) — — 68,578 (442 ) Private equity — — 18,713 (6,467 ) 18,713 (6,467 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 548,240 $ (48,832 ) $ 167,817 $ (41,727 ) $ 716,057 $ (90,559 ) December 31, 2014 In Loss Position Less Than 12 Months In Loss Position Greater Than 12 Months Total Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury $ 32,243 $ (412 ) $ 4,978 $ (43 ) $ 37,221 $ (455 ) Canadian government 2,894 (52 ) 14,904 (822 ) 17,798 (874 ) Corporate 4,988 (56 ) 2,420 (70 ) 7,408 (126 ) Residential mortgage-backed 217 (10 ) 106 (2 ) 323 (12 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 26 (113 ) — — 26 (113 ) Common stock: United States 126,527 (7,403 ) 438 (2 ) 126,965 (7,405 ) Canada 1,752 (379 ) 1,085 (516 ) 2,837 (895 ) Other international 19,593 (1,557 ) 2 (3 ) 19,595 (1,560 ) Mutual funds: Equity 233,827 (13,219 ) 23,717 (2,682 ) 257,544 (15,901 ) Fixed income 112,160 (3,128 ) 11,452 (448 ) 123,612 (3,576 ) Private equity 203 (461 ) 13,870 (8,957 ) 14,073 (9,418 ) Other 5 (11 ) 464 (93 ) 469 (104 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 534,435 $ (26,801 ) $ 73,436 $ (13,638 ) $ 607,871 $ (40,439 ) Deferred Preneed Funeral Revenues At December 31, 2015 and 2014 , Deferred preneed funeral revenues , net of allowance for cancellation, represent future funeral revenues, including distributed trust investment earnings associated with unperformed trust-funded preneed funeral contracts that are not held in trust accounts. Deferred preneed funeral revenues are recognized in current funeral revenues when merchandise is delivered or the service is performed. Future funeral revenues and net trust investment earnings that are held in trust accounts are included in Deferred preneed receipts held in trust. The following table summarizes the activity in Deferred preneed funeral revenues for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenue, net $ 540,164 $ 551,948 $ 535,136 Net preneed contract sales 232,628 198,195 144,202 (Divestitures) acquisitions of businesses, net (2,895 ) (21,639 ) 298,047 Net investment (losses) earnings (1) (37,208 ) 24,256 126,428 Recognized deferred preneed revenue (276,359 ) (258,534 ) (200,680 ) Change in cancellation allowance 11,675 21,272 (5,670 ) Change in deferred preneed receipts held in trust 90,351 26,131 (343,878 ) Effect of foreign currency and other (459 ) (1,465 ) (1,637 ) Ending balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenue, net $ 557,897 $ 540,164 $ 551,948 (1) Includes both realized and unrealized investment earnings. Insurance-Funded Preneed Contracts Not included in our Consolidated Balance Sheet are insurance-funded preneed contracts that will be funded by life insurance or annuity contracts issued by third party insurers. Where permitted by state or provincial law, customers may arrange their preneed contract by purchasing a life insurance or annuity policy from third-party insurance companies, for which we earn a commission as general sales agent for the insurance company. These general agency commissions (GA revenues) are based on a percentage per contract sold and are recognized as funeral revenues when the insurance purchase transaction between the customer and third-party insurance provider is completed. GA revenues recognized in 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 were $137.0 million , $123.0 million , and $106.5 million , respectively. Direct selling costs incurred pursuant to the sale of insurance-funded preneed contracts are expensed as incurred. The policy amount of the insurance contract between the customer and the third-party insurance company generally equals the amount of the preneed contract. We do not reflect the unfulfilled insurance-funded preneed contract amounts in our Consolidated Balance Sheet. The proceeds of the life insurance policies or annuity contracts will be reflected in funeral revenues as we perform these funerals.

Preneed Cemetery Activities Lev

Preneed Cemetery Activities Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Cemetery [Member]
Preneed Cemetery Activities Text Block	Preneed Cemetery Activities Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments represent trust investments, including investment earnings, and customer receivables, net of unearned finance charges, for contracts sold in advance of when the property interment rights, merchandise, or services are needed. Our cemetery merchandise and service trusts are variable interest entities. We have determined that we are the primary beneficiary of these trusts, as we absorb a majority of the losses and returns associated with these trusts. The trust investments detailed in Notes 3 and 5 are also accounted for as variable interest entities. When we receive payments from the customer, we deposit the amount required by law into the trust and reclassify the corresponding amount from Deferred preneed cemetery revenues into Deferred preneed receipts held in trust. Amounts are withdrawn from the trusts when the contract obligations are performed. Cash flows from preneed cemetery contracts are presented as operating cash flows in our Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments are reduced by the trust investment earnings (realized and unrealized) that we have been allowed to withdraw in certain states prior to maturity. These earnings are recorded in Deferred preneed cemetery revenues until the merchandise is delivered or the service is performed. The table below sets forth certain investment-related activities associated with our preneed cemetery merchandise and service trusts for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Deposits $ 153,252 $ 129,581 $ 106,185 Withdrawals $ 163,732 $ 150,064 $ 119,576 Purchases of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 625,648 $ 1,786,800 $ 477,772 Sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 628,484 $ 1,842,417 $ 498,852 Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 51,510 $ 271,507 $ 101,337 Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ (40,092 ) $ (138,473 ) $ (14,593 ) (1) The increase in activity in 2014 is the result of changing the legal structure of the trust investments. The components of Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31 were as follows: 2015 2014 (In thousands) Trust investments, at market $ 1,343,916 $ 1,404,298 Cash and cash equivalents 118,583 122,355 Trust investments 1,462,499 1,526,653 Receivables from customers 958,503 881,082 Unearned finance charges (31,332 ) (31,524 ) 2,389,670 2,376,211 Allowance for cancellation (71,503 ) (69,542 ) Preneed cemetery receivables and trust investments $ 2,318,167 $ 2,306,669 The activity in Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments for the years ended December 31 was as follows: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Preneed cemetery receivables and trust investments $ 2,306,669 $ 2,292,348 $ 1,826,835 Net preneed contract sales 799,497 688,336 562,433 Acquisitions (divestitures) of businesses, net 4,404 (10,898 ) 190,870 Net undistributed investment (losses) earnings (1) (42,189 ) (18,038 ) 203,499 Cash receipts from customers, net of refunds (716,686 ) (615,489 ) (471,710 ) Deposits to trust 153,252 129,581 106,185 Maturities, deliveries, and associated earnings (163,732 ) (150,064 ) (119,576 ) Change in cancellation allowance (2,046 ) 843 3,002 Effect of foreign currency and other (21,002 ) (9,950 ) (9,190 ) Ending balance — Preneed cemetery receivables and trust investments $ 2,318,167 $ 2,306,669 $ 2,292,348 (1) Includes both realized and unrealized investment (losses) earnings. The cost and market values associated with our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments recorded at fair value at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are detailed below. Cost reflects the investment (net of redemptions) of control holders in the trusts. Fair value represents the value of the underlying securities held by the trusts. December 31, 2015 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 69,746 $ 25 $ (1,437 ) $ 68,334 Canadian government 2 24,648 183 (169 ) 24,662 Corporate 2 5,112 26 (118 ) 5,020 Residential mortgage-backed 2 129 3 (3 ) 129 Asset-backed 2 170 15 — 185 Equity securities: Common stock: United States 1 532,026 44,181 (32,037 ) 544,170 Canada 1 8,984 3,858 (891 ) 11,951 Other international 1 50,053 4,207 (5,799 ) 48,461 Mutual funds: Equity 1 356,798 1,620 (49,642 ) 308,776 Fixed income 1 203,983 92 (18,526 ) 185,549 Commingled funds: Fixed income 2 108,883 — (570 ) 108,313 Private equity 3 34,810 5,803 (4,502 ) 36,111 Other 3 1,982 273 — 2,255 Trust investments $ 1,397,324 $ 60,286 $ (113,694 ) $ 1,343,916 December 31, 2014 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 63,447 $ 257 $ (605 ) $ 63,099 Canadian government 2 21,687 261 (134 ) 21,814 Corporate 2 8,725 122 (116 ) 8,731 Residential mortgage-backed 2 111 3 (1 ) 113 Asset-backed 2 170 16 — 186 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 10 1 — 11 Common stock: United States 1 557,955 22,746 (11,706 ) 568,995 Canada 1 10,962 5,011 (841 ) 15,132 Other international 1 55,632 1,605 (2,395 ) 54,842 Mutual funds: Equity 1 344,443 4,244 (18,430 ) 330,257 Fixed income 1 314,600 679 (4,702 ) 310,577 Private equity 3 32,342 3,185 (6,183 ) 29,344 Other 3 1,082 186 (71 ) 1,197 Trust investments $ 1,411,166 $ 38,316 $ (45,184 ) $ 1,404,298 Where quoted prices are available in an active market, securities held by the trusts are classified as Level 1 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. Where quoted market prices are not available for the specific security, fair values are estimated by using either quoted prices of securities with similar characteristics or an income approach fair value model with observable inputs that include a combination of interest rates, yield curves, credit risks, prepayment speeds, ratings, and tax-exempt status. Commingled funds are measured at and readily redeemable for net asset value. These securities are classified as Level 2 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. The valuation of private equity and other alternative investments requires management judgment due to the absence of quoted market prices, inherent lack of liquidity, and the long-term nature of such assets. The fair value of these investments is estimated based on the value of the underlying real estate and private equity investments. The underlying real estate value is determined using the most recent available appraisals. Private equity instruments are valued based on reported net asset values. Valuation policies and procedures are determined by our Trust Services department, which reports to our Chief Financial Officer. Additionally, valuations are reviewed by the Investment Committee of the Board of Directors quarterly. These securities are classified as Level 3 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. As of December 31, 2015 , our unfunded commitment for our private equity and other investments was $43.6 million which, if called, would be funded by the assets of the trusts. Our private equity and other investments include several funds that invest in limited partnerships, distressed debt, real estate, and mezzanine financing. These investments can never be redeemed by the funds. Instead, the nature of the investments in this category is that the distributions are received through the liquidation of the underlying assets of the funds. We estimate that the underlying assets will be liquidated over the next 2 to 10 years. The change in our market-based cemetery merchandise and service trust investments with significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) is as follows for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 Private Equity Other Private Equity Other Private Equity Other (In thousands) Fair value, beginning balance at January 1, $ 29,344 $ 1,197 $ 26,844 $ 1,245 $ 17,687 $ 450 Net unrealized gains (losses) included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (1) 5,723 228 3,313 (73 ) 15,420 1,218 Net realized losses included in Other income (expense), net (2) (45 ) (15 ) (43 ) (7 ) (48 ) (5 ) Purchases — 1,328 — 196 — — Contributions 7,935 1,390 6,582 4 3,430 — Distributions and other (6,846 ) (1,873 ) (7,352 ) (168 ) (9,645 ) (418 ) Fair value, ending balance at December 31, $ 36,111 $ 2,255 $ 29,344 $ 1,197 $ 26,844 $ 1,245 (1) All unrealized gains recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income for our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Accumulated other comprehensive income to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . (2) All losses recognized in Other income (expense), net for our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Other income (expense), net to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . Maturity dates of our fixed income securities range from 2016 to 2045 . Maturities of fixed income securities (excluding mutual funds) at December 31, 2015 are estimated as follows: Fair Value (In thousands) Due in one year or less $ 26,698 Due in one to five years 25,843 Due in five to ten years 27,094 Thereafter 18,695 $ 98,330 Earnings from all our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are recognized in cemetery revenues when merchandise is delivered or a service is performed. Fees charged by our wholly-owned registered investment advisor are also included in current revenues in the period in which they are earned. In addition, we are entitled to retain, in certain jurisdictions, a portion of collected customer payments when a customer cancels a preneed contract; these amounts are also recognized in current revenues. Recognized earnings (realized and unrealized) related to our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments were $45.5 million , $48.2 million , and $39.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. We assess our trust investments for other-than-temporary declines in fair value on a quarterly basis. Impairment charges resulting from this assessment are recognized as investment losses in Other income (expense), net and a decrease to Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments . These investment losses, if any, are offset by the corresponding reclassification in Other income (expense), net, which reduces Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . For the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , we recorded a $4.3 million , a $60.0 million , and a $1.6 million , respectively, impairment charge for other-than-temporary declines in fair value related to unrealized losses on certain investments. We have determined that the remaining unrealized losses in our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are considered temporary in nature, as the unrealized losses were due to temporary fluctuations in interest rates and equity prices. The investments are diversified across multiple industry segments using a balanced allocation strategy to minimize long-term risk. We believe that none of the securities are other-than-temporarily impaired based on our analysis of the investments. Our analysis included a review of the portfolio holdings and discussions with the individual money managers as to the sector exposures, credit ratings, and the severity and duration of the unrealized losses. Our cemetery merchandise and service trust investment unrealized losses, their associated fair values, and the duration of unrealized losses for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , are shown in the following tables: December 31, 2015 In Loss Position Less Than 12 Months In Loss Position Greater Than 12 Months Total Fair Value Unrealized Losses Fair Value Unrealized Losses Fair Value Unrealized Losses (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury $ 52,533 $ (1,435 ) $ 21 $ (2 ) $ 52,554 $ (1,437 ) Canadian government 16,039 (105 ) 841 (64 ) 16,880 (169 ) Corporate 1,754 (22 ) 2,347 (96 ) 4,101 (118 ) Residential mortgage-backed 42 (1 ) 18 (2 ) 60 (3 ) Equity securities: Common stock: United States 198,843 (26,038 ) 21,355 (5,999 ) 220,198 (32,037 ) Canada 470 (6 ) 1,430 (885 ) 1,900 (891 ) Other international 15,567 (2,507 ) 9,412 (3,292 ) 24,979 (5,799 ) Mutual funds: Equity 207,349 (25,991 ) 86,720 (23,651 ) 294,069 (49,642 ) Fixed income 139,749 (6,322 ) 44,550 (12,204 ) 184,299 (18,526 ) Commingled funds: Fixed income 108,347 (570 ) — — 108,347 (570 ) Private equity — — 9,526 (4,502 ) 9,526 (4,502 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 740,693 $ (62,997 ) $ 176,220 $ (50,697 ) $ 916,913 $ (113,694 ) December 31, 2014 In Loss Position Less Than 12 Months In Loss Position Greater Than 12 Months Total Fair Value Unrealized Losses Fair Value Unrealized Losses Fair Value Unrealized Losses (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury $ 45,072 $ (605 ) $ — $ — $ 45,072 $ (605 ) Canadian government — — 4,858 (134 ) 4,858 (134 ) Corporate 2,017 (61 ) 1,936 (55 ) 3,953 (116 ) Residential mortgage-backed 33 (1 ) — — 33 (1 ) Equity securities: Common stock: United States 192,015 (11,706 ) 585 — 192,600 (11,706 ) Canada 2,069 (319 ) 778 (522 ) 2,847 (841 ) Other international 28,308 (2,395 ) — — 28,308 (2,395 ) Mutual funds: Equity 303,211 (18,329 ) 1,577 (101 ) 304,788 (18,430 ) Fixed income 159,572 (4,106 ) 15,113 (596 ) 174,685 (4,702 ) Private equity 88 (100 ) 7,518 (6,083 ) 7,606 (6,183 ) Other 2 (3 ) 259 (68 ) 261 (71 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 732,387 $ (37,625 ) $ 32,624 $ (7,559 ) $ 765,011 $ (45,184 ) Deferred Preneed Cemetery Revenues At December 31, 2015 and 2014 , Deferred preneed cemetery revenues , net of allowance for cancellation, represent future cemetery revenues, including distributed trust investment earnings associated with unperformed trust-funded preneed cemetery contracts that are not held in trust accounts. Deferred preneed cemetery revenues are recognized in current cemetery revenues when merchandise is delivered or the service is performed. Future cemetery revenues and net trust investment earnings that are held in trust accounts are included in Deferred preneed receipts held in trust. The following table summarizes the activity in Deferred preneed cemetery revenues for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenue $ 1,062,381 $ 1,016,275 $ 861,148 Net preneed and atneed deferred sales 561,899 531,768 396,264 Acquisitions (Divestitures) of businesses, net 2,357 (25,071 ) 212,624 Net investment (losses) earnings (1) (42,806 ) (22,378 ) 201,941 Recognized deferred preneed revenue (504,064 ) (493,739 ) (386,632 ) Change in cancellation allowance (8,048 ) 3,833 18,358 Change in deferred preneed receipts held in trust 52,050 55,636 (298,337 ) Effect of foreign currency and other (3,768 ) (3,943 ) 10,909 Ending balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenue $ 1,120,001 $ 1,062,381 $ 1,016,275 (1) Includes both realized and unrealized investment (losses) earnings.

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Text Block	Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts We are required by state and provincial law to pay into cemetery perpetual care trusts a portion of the proceeds from the sale of cemetery property interment rights. Our cemetery perpetual care trusts are variable interest entities. We have determined that we are the primary beneficiary of these trusts, as we absorb a majority of the losses and returns associated with these trusts. The merchandise and service trust investments detailed in Notes 3 and 4 are also accounted for as variable interest entities. We consolidate our cemetery perpetual care trust investments with a corresponding amount recorded as Care trusts’ corpus. Cash flows from cemetery perpetual care contracts are presented as operating cash flows in our Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. The table below sets forth certain investment-related activities associated with our cemetery perpetual care trusts for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Deposits $ 38,883 $ 42,220 $ 26,501 Withdrawals $ 40,447 $ 46,981 $ 33,557 Purchases of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 247,658 $ 1,306,314 $ 139,439 Sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 175,057 $ 1,396,669 $ 99,701 Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 6,933 $ 134,259 $ 17,916 Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ (7,708 ) $ (51,093 ) $ (2,738 ) (1) The increase in activity in 2014 is the result of changing the legal structure of the trust investments. The components of Cemetery perpetual care trust investments in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31 were as follows: 2015 2014 (In thousands) Trust investments, at market $ 1,232,592 $ 1,192,966 Cash and cash equivalents 86,835 148,410 Cemetery perpetual care trust investments $ 1,319,427 $ 1,341,376 The cost and market values associated with our cemetery perpetual care trust investments recorded at fair value at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are detailed below. Cost reflects the investment (net of redemptions) of control holders in the trusts. Fair value represents the value of the underlying securities or cash held by the trusts. December 31, 2015 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 3,636 $ 20 $ (81 ) $ 3,575 Canadian government 2 32,477 321 (266 ) 32,532 Corporate 2 12,694 149 (284 ) 12,559 Residential mortgage-backed 2 934 13 (9 ) 938 Asset-backed 2 660 5 (31 ) 634 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 5,850 55 (159 ) 5,746 Common stock: United States 1 231,012 15,224 (10,898 ) 235,338 Canada 1 5,648 2,112 (606 ) 7,154 Other international 1 14,820 160 (2,390 ) 12,590 Mutual funds: Equity 1 21,783 3,138 (1,850 ) 23,071 Fixed income 1 890,013 530 (63,913 ) 826,630 Private equity 3 62,549 1,942 (8,096 ) 56,395 Other 3 13,709 1,721 — 15,430 Cemetery perpetual care trust investments $ 1,295,785 $ 25,390 $ (88,583 ) $ 1,232,592 December 31, 2014 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 794 $ 40 $ (4 ) $ 830 Canadian government 2 31,993 442 (233 ) 32,202 Corporate 2 16,762 344 (210 ) 16,896 Residential mortgage-backed 2 910 15 (6 ) 919 Asset-backed 2 661 10 (4 ) 667 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 4,439 60 (12 ) 4,487 Common stock: United States 1 225,129 9,340 (4,881 ) 229,588 Canada 1 7,419 2,737 (596 ) 9,560 Other international 1 8,102 90 (399 ) 7,793 Mutual funds: Equity 1 17,310 3,264 (93 ) 20,481 Fixed income 1 846,230 1,580 (14,263 ) 833,547 Private equity 3 34,288 408 (10,788 ) 23,908 Other 3 13,526 1,094 (2,532 ) 12,088 Cemetery perpetual care trust investments $ 1,207,563 $ 19,424 $ (34,021 ) $ 1,192,966 Where quoted prices are available in an active market, securities held by the trusts are classified as Level 1 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. Where quoted market prices are not available for the specific security, fair values are estimated by using either quoted prices of securities with similar characteristics or an income approach fair value model with observable inputs that include a combination of interest rates, yield curves, credit risks, prepayment speeds, ratings, and tax-exempt status. These securities are classified as Level 2 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. The valuation of private equity and other alternative investments requires management judgment due to the absence of quoted market prices, inherent lack of liquidity, and the long-term nature of such assets. The fair value of these investments is estimated based on the value of the underlying real estate and private equity investments. The underlying real estate value is determined using the most recent available appraisals. Private equity instruments are valued based on reported net asset values. Valuation policies and procedures are determined by our Trust Services department, which reports to our Chief Financial Officer. Additionally, valuations are reviewed by the Investment Committee of the Board of Directors quarterly. These securities are classified as Level 3 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. As of December 31, 2015 , our unfunded commitment for our private equity and other investments was $54.2 million which, if called, would be funded by the assets of the trusts. Our private equity and other investments include several funds that invest in limited partnerships, distressed debt, real estate, and mezzanine financing. These investments can never be redeemed by the funds. Instead, the nature of the investments in this category is that the distributions are received through the liquidation of the underlying assets of the funds. We estimate that the underlying assets will be liquidated over the next 2 to 10 years. The change in our market-based cemetery perpetual care trust investments with significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) is as follows for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 Private Equity Other Private Equity Other Private Equity Other (In thousands) Fair value, beginning balance at January 1, $ 23,908 $ 12,088 $ 19,779 $ 11,590 $ 11,122 $ 7,659 Net unrealized gains (losses) included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (1) 10,793 (828 ) 1,216 2,145 6,897 4,081 Net realized losses included in Other income (expense), net (2) (20 ) (24 ) (70 ) (44 ) (142 ) (76 ) Sales — — — (17 ) — — Contributions 25,836 5,829 10,461 — 3,706 — Distributions and other (4,122 ) (1,635 ) (7,478 ) (1,586 ) (1,841 ) (508 ) Acquisitions — — — — 37 434 Fair value, ending balance at December 31, $ 56,395 $ 15,430 $ 23,908 $ 12,088 $ 19,779 $ 11,590 (1) All unrealized gains (losses) recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income for our cemetery perpetual care trust investments are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Accumulated other comprehensive income to Care trusts’ corpus . See Note 6 for further information related to our Care trusts’ corpus . (2) All losses recognized in Other income (expense), net for our cemetery perpetual care trust investments are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Other income (expense), net to Care trusts’ corpus . See Note 6 for further information related to our Care trusts’ corpus . Maturity dates of our fixed income securities range from 2016 to 2045 . Maturities of fixed income securities at December 31, 2015 are estimated as follows: Fair Value (In thousands) Due in one year or less $ 27,700 Due in one to five years 21,107 Due in five to ten years 448 Thereafter 983 $ 50,238 Distributable earnings from these cemetery perpetual care trust investments are recognized in current cemetery revenues to the extent we incur qualifying cemetery maintenance costs. Fees charged by our wholly-owned registered investment advisor are also included in current revenues in the period in which they are earned. Recognized earnings related to these cemetery perpetual care trust investments were $59.6 million , $72.4 million , and $44.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. We assess our trust investments for other-than-temporary declines in fair value on a quarterly basis. Impairment charges resulting from this assessment are recognized as investment losses in Other (expense) income, net and a decrease to Cemetery perpetual care trust investments . These investment losses, if any, are offset by the corresponding reclassification in Other (expense) income, net, which reduces Care trusts’ corpus . See Note 6 for further information related to our Care trusts’ corpus . For the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , we recorded a $1.8 million , a $8.1 million , and a $0.2 million , respectively, impairment charge for other-than-temporary declines in fair value related to unrealized losses on certain investments. We have determined that the remaining unrealized losses in our cemetery perpetual care trust investments are considered temporary in nature, as the unrealized losses were due to temporary fluctuations in interest rates and equity prices. The investments are diversified across multiple industry segments using a balanced allocation strategy to minimize long-term risk. We believe that none of the securities are other-than-temporarily impaired based on our analysis of the investments. Our analysis included a review of the portfolio holdings, and discussions with the individual money managers as to the sector exposures, credit ratings, and the severity and duration of the unrealized losses. Our cemetery perpetual care trust investment unrealized losses, their associated fair values and the duration of unrealized losses for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , are shown in the following table: December 31, 2015 In Loss Position Less Than 12 Months In Loss Position Greater Than 12 Months Total Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury $ 3,275 $ (80 ) $ 35 $ (1 ) $ 3,310 $ (81 ) Canadian government 18,499 (164 ) 1,371 (102 ) 19,870 (266 ) Corporate 5,163 (134 ) 4,147 (150 ) 9,310 (284 ) Residential mortgage-backed 303 (3 ) 117 (6 ) 420 (9 ) Asset-backed 145 (12 ) 360 (19 ) 505 (31 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 4,029 (159 ) — — 4,029 (159 ) Common stock: United States 81,624 (7,793 ) 14,900 (3,105 ) 96,524 (10,898 ) Canada 702 (31 ) 1,026 (575 ) 1,728 (606 ) Other international 8,734 (940 ) 2,347 (1,450 ) 11,081 (2,390 ) Mutual funds: Equity 4,580 (606 ) 1,258 (1,244 ) 5,838 (1,850 ) Fixed income 519,981 (18,205 ) 294,309 (45,708 ) 814,290 (63,913 ) Private equity 10,594 (61 ) 24,556 (8,035 ) 35,150 (8,096 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 657,629 $ (28,188 ) $ 344,426 $ (60,395 ) $ 1,002,055 $ (88,583 ) December 31, 2014 In Loss Position Less Than 12 Months In Loss Position Greater Than 12 Months Total Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury $ 497 $ (4 ) $ — $ — $ 497 $ (4 ) Canadian government — — 7,825 (233 ) 7,825 (233 ) Corporate 4,656 (108 ) 3,198 (102 ) 7,854 (210 ) Residential mortgage-backed 256 (5 ) 69 (1 ) 325 (6 ) Asset-backed 373 (4 ) — — 373 (4 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 2,224 (11 ) 49 (1 ) 2,273 (12 ) Common stock: United States 100,370 (4,803 ) 419 (78 ) 100,789 (4,881 ) Canada 2,418 (244 ) 757 (352 ) 3,175 (596 ) Other international 4,444 (399 ) — — 4,444 (399 ) Mutual funds: Equity 2,601 (85 ) 153 (8 ) 2,754 (93 ) Fixed income 576,890 (14,177 ) 2,581 (86 ) 579,471 (14,263 ) Private equity 9,213 (798 ) 14,254 (9,990 ) 23,467 (10,788 ) Other 4,069 (352 ) 6,276 (2,180 ) 10,345 (2,532 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 708,011 $ (20,990 ) $ 35,581 $ (13,031 ) $ 743,592 $ (34,021 )

Deferred Preneed Funeral and Ce

Deferred Preneed Funeral and Cemetery Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trusts' Corpus Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Deferred Preneed Funeral and Cemetery Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trusts' Corpus [Abstract]
Deferred Preneed Funeral And Cemetery Receipts Held In Trust And Care Trusts Corpus Text Block	Deferred Preneed Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trusts’ Corpus Deferred Preneed Receipts Held in Trust We consolidate the merchandise and service trusts associated with our preneed funeral and cemetery activities as we are the primary beneficiary of the trusts. Although we consolidate the merchandise and service trusts, it does not change the legal relationships among the trusts, us, or our customers. The customers are the legal beneficiaries of these merchandise and service trusts; therefore, their interests in these trusts represent a liability to us. The components of Deferred preneed receipts held in trust in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are detailed below. December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Preneed Funeral Preneed Cemetery Total Preneed Funeral Preneed Cemetery Total (In thousands) (In thousands) Trust investments $ 1,515,113 $ 1,462,499 $ 2,977,612 $ 1,628,875 $ 1,526,653 $ 3,155,528 Accrued trust operating payables and other (1,381 ) (2,845 ) (4,226 ) (2,487 ) (4,157 ) (6,644 ) Deferred preneed receipts held in trust $ 1,513,732 $ 1,459,654 $ 2,973,386 $ 1,626,388 $ 1,522,496 $ 3,148,884 Care Trusts’ Corpus The Care trusts’ corpus reflected in our Consolidated Balance Sheet represents the cemetery perpetual care trusts, including the related accrued expenses. The components of Care trusts’ corpus in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are detailed below. December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 (In thousands) Cemetery perpetual care trust investments $ 1,319,427 $ 1,341,376 Accrued trust operating payables and other 137 (13,718 ) Care trusts’ corpus $ 1,319,564 $ 1,327,658 Other (Expense )Income, Net The components of Other (expense) income, net in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 are detailed below. See Notes 3, 4, and 5 for further discussion of the amounts related to our funeral, cemetery, and cemetery perpetual care trusts. Year Ended December 31, 2015 Funeral Trusts Cemetery Trusts Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Other, Net Total (In thousands) Realized gains $ 42,034 $ 51,510 $ 6,933 $ — $ 100,477 Realized losses (31,403 ) (40,092 ) (7,708 ) — (79,203 ) Impairment charges (3,519 ) (4,345 ) (1,812 ) — (9,676 ) Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income 25,952 27,089 56,253 — 109,294 Trust expenses and income taxes (21,852 ) (31,472 ) (32,643 ) — (85,967 ) Net trust investment income 11,212 2,690 21,023 — 34,925 Reclassification to deferred preneed receipts held in trust and care trusts’ corpus (11,212 ) (2,690 ) (21,023 ) — (34,925 ) Other expense, net — — — (113 ) (113 ) Total other expense, net $ — $ — $ — $ (113 ) $ (113 ) Year Ended December 31, 2014 Funeral Trusts Cemetery Trusts Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Other, Net Total (In thousands) Realized gains $ 168,567 $ 271,507 $ 134,259 $ — $ 574,333 Realized losses (113,748 ) (138,473 ) (51,093 ) — (303,314 ) Impairment charges (41,846 ) (60,040 ) (8,072 ) — (109,958 ) Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income 22,668 17,597 52,126 — 92,391 Trust expenses and income taxes (19,590 ) (20,833 ) (34,243 ) — (74,666 ) Net trust investment income 16,051 69,758 92,977 — 178,786 Reclassification to deferred preneed receipts held in trust and care trusts’ corpus (16,051 ) (69,758 ) (92,977 ) — (178,786 ) Other income, net — — — 1,780 1,780 Total other income, net $ — $ — $ — $ 1,780 $ 1,780 December 31, 2013 Funeral Trusts Cemetery Trusts Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Other, Net Total (In thousands) Realized gains $ 65,011 $ 101,337 $ 17,916 $ — $ 184,264 Realized losses (9,732 ) (14,593 ) (2,738 ) — (27,063 ) Impairment charges (829 ) (1,575 ) (192 ) — (2,596 ) Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income 24,912 20,527 41,269 — 86,708 Trust expenses and income taxes (11,371 ) (14,633 ) (16,445 ) — (42,449 ) Net trust investment income 67,991 91,063 39,810 — 198,864 Reclassification to deferred preneed receipts held in trust and care trusts’ corpus (67,991 ) (91,063 ) (39,810 ) — (198,864 ) Other expense, net — — — (558 ) (558 ) Total other expense, net $ — $ — $ — $ (558 ) $ (558 )

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block]	Goodwill and Intangible Assets The changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill for our funeral and cemetery reporting units are as follows: (in thousands): 2015 2014 Funeral Cemetery Total Funeral Cemetery Total (In thousands) Balance as of January 1, $ 1,510,879 $ 299,974 $ 1,810,853 $ 1,526,011 $ 299,710 $ 1,825,721 Increase in goodwill related to acquisitions 6,460 6,201 12,661 292 3,238 3,530 Reduction of goodwill related to divestitures (8,908 ) (262 ) (9,170 ) (5,959 ) (2,960 ) (8,919 ) Effect of foreign currency (17,929 ) (75 ) (18,004 ) (9,465 ) (14 ) (9,479 ) Activity (20,377 ) 5,864 (14,513 ) (15,132 ) 264 (14,868 ) Balance as of December 31, $ 1,490,502 $ 305,838 $ 1,796,340 $ 1,510,879 $ 299,974 $ 1,810,853 The components of intangible assets at December 31 were as follows: Useful life Minimum Maximum 2015 2014 (Years) (In thousands) Amortizing intangibles: Covenants-not-to-compete 2 - 20 $ 206,822 $ 209,920 Customer relationships 10 - 20 154,364 148,351 Tradenames 5 - 5 12,750 12,750 Other 5 - 40 11,927 11,927 385,863 382,948 Less: Accumulated amortization 257,157 220,682 Amortizing intangibles, net 128,706 162,266 Non-amortizing intangibles: Tradenames Indefinite 230,659 220,875 Other Indefinite 10,640 10,640 Non-amortizing intangibles 241,299 231,515 Intangible assets, net $ 370,005 $ 393,781 Amortization expense for intangible assets was $31.5 million , $36.6 million , and $21.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. The following is estimated amortization expense, excluding certain intangibles for which we are unable to provide an estimate because they are amortized based on specific identification in the performance of a preneed contract, for the five years subsequent to December 31, 2015 (in thousands): 2016 $ 14,490 2017 $ 11,876 2018 $ 11,119 2019 $ 7,869 2020 $ 6,772

Income Taxes Level 1 (Notes)

Income Taxes Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	Income Taxes The provision or benefit for income taxes includes U.S. federal income taxes (determined on a consolidated return basis), foreign income taxes, and state income taxes. Income from continuing operations before income taxes for the years ended December 31 was composed of the following components: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) United States $ 331,622 $ 360,800 $ 199,374 Foreign 38,729 41,800 45,832 $ 370,351 $ 402,600 $ 245,206 Income tax provision (benefit) for the years ended December 31 consisted of the following: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Current: United States $ 94,502 $ 67,511 $ 2,207 Foreign 9,270 10,859 12,445 State 13,207 17,939 6,664 Total current income taxes 116,979 96,309 21,316 Deferred: United States $ 15,918 $ 108,514 $ 64,355 Foreign (878 ) (653 ) 58 State 3,008 21,810 7,295 Total deferred income taxes 18,048 129,671 71,708 Total income taxes $ 135,027 $ 225,980 $ 93,024 We made income tax payments of $105.4 million , $106.3 million , and $26.0 million in 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively, and received refunds of $1.9 million , $0.6 million , and $0.5 million , respectively. The differences between the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate and our effective tax rate for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Computed tax provision at the applicable federal statutory income tax rate $ 129,623 $ 140,910 $ 86,002 State and local taxes, net of federal income tax benefits 10,542 25,736 8,221 Dividends received deduction and tax exempt interest (444 ) (1,612 ) (592 ) Foreign jurisdiction differences (5,183 ) (4,424 ) (3,685 ) Permanent differences associated with dispositions 2,909 61,892 268 Changes in uncertain tax positions 4,046 4,624 3,710 Other (6,466 ) (1,146 ) (900 ) Provision for income taxes $ 135,027 $ 225,980 $ 93,024 Total effective tax rate 36.5 % 56.1 % 37.9 % The 2015 consolidated effective tax rate was 36.5% , compared to 56.1% and 37.9% in 2014 and 2013 , respectively. The higher effective tax rate for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 was primarily due to the non-deductible goodwill resulting from the gains on required divestitures associated with the Stewart acquisition. The 2015 consolidated effective tax rate is above the 35.0% federal statutory tax rate primarily due to the state expense partially offset by state legislative changes and foreign earnings taxed at lower rates. Deferred taxes are determined based on differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates. The tax effects of temporary differences and carry-forwards that give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31 consisted of the following: 2015 2014 (In thousands) Inventories and cemetery property $ (338,143 ) $ (338,446 ) Property and equipment (168,265 ) (183,332 ) Intangibles (302,217 ) (309,271 ) Other (12,047 ) (6,870 ) Deferred tax liabilities (820,672 ) (837,919 ) Loss and tax credit carry-forwards 171,725 181,092 Deferred revenue on preneed funeral and cemetery contracts 226,483 262,202 Accrued liabilities 102,351 99,908 Deferred tax assets 500,559 543,202 Less: Valuation allowance (126,654 ) (134,201 ) Net deferred income tax liability $ (446,767 ) $ (428,918 ) Deferred tax assets and Deferred income tax liabilities are recognized in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31 as follows: 2015 2014 (In thousands) Current deferred tax assets $ — $ 1,128 Non-current deferred tax assets 23,817 18,778 Non-current deferred tax liabilities (470,584 ) (448,824 ) Net deferred income tax liability $ (446,767 ) $ (428,918 ) In addition to the loss and tax credit carry-forward amounts reflected as deferred tax assets in the table above, we have taken certain tax deductions related to the exercised employee stock options and vested restricted shares that are in excess of the stock-based compensation amounts recorded in our consolidated financial statements (“windfall tax benefits”). Such windfall tax benefits are not recognized in our consolidated financial statements unless they reduce income taxes payable. For the year ended December 31, 2015, restricted share vesting and stock option exercises resulted in windfall tax benefits where the tax deduction exceeded the previously disallowed book expense in the amount of $43.5 million or $16.2 million net of tax. At December 31, 2015 and 2014 , U.S. income taxes had not been provided on $259.8 million and $259.4 million , respectively, of the remaining undistributed earnings of our Canadian subsidiaries. We intend to permanently reinvest these undistributed foreign earnings in those businesses outside the United States. It is not practicable to determine the amount of federal income taxes, if any, that might become due if such earnings are repatriated. The following table summarizes the activity related to our gross unrecognized tax benefits from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2015 (in thousands): Federal, State and Foreign Tax (In thousands) Balance at December 31, 2012 $ 184,899 Reductions to tax positions related to the current year 3,019 Additions to tax positions related to the acquisition of Stewart, offset to goodwill 1,556 Reductions to tax positions related to prior years (8,800 ) Statute expirations (2,844 ) Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 177,830 Additions to tax positions related to the current year 8,721 Additions to tax positions related to prior years 10,085 Reductions to tax positions related to the current year (1,075 ) Reductions to tax positions related to prior years (2,325 ) Reductions to tax positions related to the acquisition of Stewart, offset to goodwill (1,556 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 191,680 Additions to tax positions related to the current year 3,235 Reductions to tax positions related to prior years (12,370 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 182,545 Our total unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect our effective tax rates were $157.2 million , $154.8 million , and $106.3 million as of December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. We include potential accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within our income tax provision account. We have accrued $51.6 million , $47.6 million , and $44.5 million for the payment of interest, net of tax benefits, and penalties as of December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. We recognized an increase of interest and penalties of $4.0 million , $3.1 million , and $3.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. To the extent interest and penalties are not assessed with respect to uncertain tax positions or the uncertainty of deductions in the future, amounts accrued will be reduced and reflected as a reduction of the overall income tax provision. We file income tax returns, including tax returns for our subsidiaries, with federal, state, local, and foreign jurisdictions. Our tax returns are subject to routine compliance review by the taxing authorities in the jurisdictions in which we file tax returns in the ordinary course of business. We consider the United States to be our most significant tax jurisdiction; however, the taxing authority in Canada is auditing various tax returns. While we have effectively concluded our 2003 - 2005 tax years with respect to our affiliate SCI Funeral and Cemetery Purchasing Cooperative, SCI and subsidiaries' tax years 1999 through 2005 remain under review at the IRS Appeals level. SCI and subsidiaries are under audit for 2006 - 2007 as a result of carry back claims. Furthermore, SCI and its affiliates are under audit by various state and foreign jurisdictions for years 2000 through 2014 . It is reasonably possible that changes to our global unrecognized tax benefits could be significant; however, due to the uncertainty regarding the timing of completion of audits and possible outcomes, a current estimate of the range of increases or decreases that may occur within the next twelve months cannot be made. Various subsidiaries have state and foreign carry-forwards in the aggregate of $3.2 billion with expiration dates through 2032 . Such loss carry-forwards will expire as follows: State Foreign Total (In thousands) 2016 $ 156,434 $ — $ 156,434 2017 247,348 — 247,348 2018 102,661 — 102,661 2019 137,636 — 137,636 Thereafter 2,587,522 3,824 2,591,346 Total $ 3,231,601 $ 3,824 $ 3,235,425 In addition to the above loss carry-forwards, we have $53.7 million of foreign losses that have an indefinite expiration. A valuation allowance has been established because more-likely-than-not uncertainties exist with respect to our future realization of certain loss carry-forwards. The valuation allowance is primarily attributable to state net operating losses and reflects our expectation that the net operating losses in certain jurisdictions will expire before we generate sufficient taxable income to utilize the losses. In 2015 , we recorded a net $6.0 million decrease in state valuation allowance related to state estimated net operating losses expected to be utilized before they expire. We recorded a $1.6 million decrease in foreign valuation allowances due to fluctuations in the exchange rate between the Euro and the US dollar. The valuation allowance can be affected in the near term by changes to tax laws, changes to statutory tax rates, and changes to future taxable income estimates. At December 31, 2015 , our loss and tax credit carry-forward deferred tax assets and related valuation allowances by jurisdiction are as follows (presented net of federal benefit): Federal State Foreign Total (In thousands) Loss and tax credit carry-forwards $ 179 $ 151,463 $ 20,083 $ 171,725 Valuation allowance $ — $ 110,955 $ 15,699 $ 126,654

Debt Level 1 (Notes)

Debt Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	Debt Debt as of December 31 was as follows: 2015 2014 (In thousands) 6.75% Senior Notes due April 2016 $ — $ 197,377 7.0% Senior Notes due June 2017 295,000 295,000 7.625% Senior Notes due October 2018 250,000 250,000 4.5% Senior Notes due November 2020 200,000 200,000 8.0% Senior Notes due November 2021 150,000 150,000 5.375% Senior Notes due January 2022 425,000 425,000 5.375% Senior Notes due May 2024 850,000 550,000 7.5% Senior Notes due April 2027 200,000 200,000 Term Loan due July 2018 310,000 370,000 Bank Credit Facility due July 2018 270,000 235,000 Obligations under capital leases 204,246 181,002 Mortgage notes and other debt, maturities through 2050 4,037 4,251 Unamortized premiums (discounts) and other, net 8,636 (2,905 ) Total debt 3,166,919 3,054,725 Less: Current maturities of long-term debt (95,181 ) (90,931 ) Total long-term debt $ 3,071,738 $ 2,963,794 Current maturities of debt at December 31, 2015 include amounts due under our Term Loan, mortgage notes and other debt, and capital leases within the next year. Our consolidated debt had a weighted average interest rate of 5.18% and 5.21% at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Approximately 76% and 75% of our total debt had a fixed interest rate at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The aggregate maturities of our debt for the five years subsequent to December 31, 2015 and thereafter are as follows (in thousands): 2016 $ 95,181 2017 437,575 2018 727,315 2019 16,695 2020 225,364 2021 and thereafter 1,664,789 $ 3,166,919 Bank Credit Facility We have a $500.0 million Bank Credit Facility due July 2018 with a syndicate of banks, including a sublimit of $175.0 million for letters of credit. As of December 31, 2015 , we have $270.0 million of outstanding borrowings under our Bank Credit Facility and have issued $31.0 million of letters of credit. The Bank Credit Facility provides us with flexibility for working capital, if needed, and is guaranteed by a majority of our domestic subsidiaries. The subsidiary guaranty is a guaranty of payment of the outstanding amount of the total lending commitment, including letters of credit. The Bank Credit Facility contains certain financial covenants, including a minimum interest coverage ratio, a maximum leverage ratio, and certain dividend and share repurchase restrictions. As of December 31, 2015 , we are in compliance with all covenants. We pay a quarterly fee on the unused commitment, which was 0.35% at December 31, 2015 . As of December 31, 2015 , we have $199.0 million in borrowing capacity under the facility. Debt Issuances and Additions In August 2015 , we issued an additional $300.0 million to our existing unsecured 5.375% Senior Notes due May 2024 . This issuance generated a premium of $11.3 million . We used the net proceeds from this offering to redeem all of our outstanding 6.75% Senior Notes due April 2016 and to repay $100.0 million of outstanding borrowings under our Bank Credit Facility. During 2015, we drew $135.0 million on our Bank Credit Facility, which was used to make required payments on our Term Loan and for general corporate purposes. In May 2014 , we issued $550.0 million of unsecured 5.375% Senior Notes due May 2024 . We used the net proceeds from this offering, along with a $95.0 million draw on our Bank Credit Facility, to repay our 6.75% Senior Notes due April 2015 , 6.5% Senior Notes due April 2019 , and 7.0% Senior Notes due May 2019 along with associated refinancing costs. The newly issued notes are subject to the provisions of the Company's Senior Indenture dated as of February 1, 1993 , as amended, which includes covenants limiting, among other things, the creation of liens securing indebtedness and sale-leaseback transactions. In February 2014 , we drew $110.0 million on our Bank Credit Facility, which we used along with cash on hand to repay our 3.125% Senior Convertible Notes due July 2014 and substantially all of our 3.375% Senior Convertible Notes due July 2016 . In July 2013 , we issued $425 million in 5.375% Senior Notes due January 2022 . In conjunction with the Stewart acquisition, we assumed $200.0 million , $86.4 million , and $46.3 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.5% Senior Notes due 2019 , 3.125% Senior Convertible Notes due 2014 , and 3.375% Senior Convertible Notes due 2016 , respectively. These notes had fair value premiums of $10.0 million , $21.7 million , and $14.2 million , respectively, which are included in unamortized premiums (discounts) and other, net in the table above as of December 31, 2013 . Debt Extinguishments and Reductions During the year ended December 31, 2015 , we made debt payments of $357.6 million for scheduled and early extinguishment payments as follows: • $197.4 million in aggregate principal of our 6.75% Senior Notes due April 2016 ; • $100.0 million in aggregate principal of our Bank Credit Facility; • $60.0 million in aggregate principal of our Term Loan due July 2018 ; and • $0.2 million in other debt. Certain of the above transactions resulted in the recognition of a loss of $6.9 million recorded in Loss on early extinguishment of debt in our Consolidated Statement of Operations. During the year ended December 31, 2014 , we made debt payments of $993.4 million for scheduled and early extinguishment payments as follows: • $250.0 million in aggregate principal of our 7.0% Senior Notes due May 2019 ; • $200.0 million in aggregate principal and $9.1 million in unamortized premiums of our 6.5% Senior Notes due April 2019 ; • $136.5 million in aggregate principal of our 6.75% Senior Notes due April 2015 ; • $230.0 million in aggregate principal of our Term Loan due July 2018 . Of this amount our credit agreement required $200.0 million from the proceeds of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) mandated divestitures under our consent order related to the Stewart acquisition; • $86.4 million in aggregate principal and $21.7 million in unamortized premiums of our 3.125% Senior Convertible Notes due 2014 ; • $45.0 million in aggregate principal and $14.2 million in unamortized premiums of our 3.375% Senior Convertible Notes due 2016 ; and • $0.5 million in other debt. Certain of the above transactions resulted in the recognition of a loss of $29.2 million recorded in (Losses) gains on early extinguishment of debt in our Consolidated Statement of Operations. In addition to repaying $86.6 million of outstanding cash advances on our previous credit facility during 2013 , we paid an aggregate of $31.8 million to repay our remaining $4.8 million 7.875% Debenture due February 2013 , to retire $26.4 million in capital lease obligations and to extinguish $0.6 million in other debt. Certain of the above transactions resulted in the recognition of a gain of $0.5 million recorded in gains on early extinguishment of debt, net in our Consolidated Statement of Operations. As mentioned above, we have paid down a total of $167.0 million in debt including $107.9 million in principal and premiums associated with our 3.125% Senior Convertible Notes due July 2014 and $59.1 million in principal and premiums associated with our 3.375% Senior Convertible Notes due July 2016 . We did not incur any gains or losses as a result of these transactions. Capital Leases In 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , we acquired $55.9 million , $35.4 million , and $42.4 million , respectively, of capital leases, primarily related to transportation equipment. We retired $28.6 million , $29.4 million , and $26.3 million of capital lease obligations for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. See additional information regarding these leases in Note 11. Additional Debt Disclosures At December 31, 2015 and 2014 , we have deposits of $7.0 million and $7.4 million , respectively, in restricted, interest-bearing accounts that were pledged as collateral for various credit instruments and commercial commitments and is included in Deferred charges and other assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheet. We had assets of approximately $1.5 million and $1.7 million pledged as collateral for the mortgage notes and other debt at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Cash interest payments for the three years ended December 31 were as follows (in thousands): Payments in 2015 $ 164,748 Payments in 2014 $ 175,327 Payments in 2013 $ 125,022 Expected cash interest payments for the five years subsequent to December 31, 2015 and thereafter are as follows (in thousands): Payments in 2016 $ 161,896 Payments in 2017 $ 150,012 Payments in 2018 $ 128,239 Payments in 2019 $ 106,210 Payments in 2020 $ 104,706 Payments in 2021 and thereafter $ 291,116

Credit Risk and Fair Value of F

Credit Risk and Fair Value of Financial Instruments Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Credit Risk and Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract]
Credit Risk and Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Text Block]	Credit Risk and Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value Estimates The fair value estimates of the following financial instruments have been determined using available market information and appropriate valuation methodologies. The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, trade receivables, and trade payables approximate the fair values of those instruments due to the short-term nature of the instruments. The carrying values of receivables on preneed funeral and cemetery contracts approximate fair value due to the diverse number of individual contracts with varying terms. The fair value of our debt instruments at December 31 was as follows: 2015 2014 (In thousands) 6.75% Senior Notes due April 2016 $ — $ 208,075 7.0% Senior Notes due June 2017 314,618 320,043 7.625% Senior Notes due October 2018 279,375 277,538 4.5% Senior Notes due November 2020 201,500 201,700 8.0% Senior Notes due November 2021 176,438 174,375 5.375% Senior Notes due January 2022 445,188 437,750 5.375% Senior Notes due May 2024 884,094 558,250 7.5% Senior Notes due April 2027 216,500 220,890 Term Loan due July 2018 310,000 370,000 Bank Credit Facility due July 2018 270,000 235,000 Mortgage notes and other debt, maturities through 2050 4,047 4,277 Total fair value of debt instruments $ 3,101,760 $ 3,007,898 The fair values of our long-term, fixed rate loans were estimated using market prices for those loans, and therefore they are classified within Level 2 of the fair value measurements hierarchy. The Term Loan, Bank Credit Facility agreement and the mortgage and other debt are classified within Level 3 of the fair value measurements hierarchy. The fair values of these instruments have been estimated using discounted cash flow analysis based on our incremental borrowing rate for similar borrowing arrangements. An increase (decrease) in the inputs results in a directionally opposite change in the fair value of the instruments. Credit Risk Exposure Our cash deposits, some of which exceed insured limits, are distributed among various market and national banks in the jurisdictions in which we operate. In addition, we regularly invest excess cash in financial instruments which are not insured, such as commercial paper that is offered by corporations with quality credit ratings and money-market funds and Eurodollar time deposits, that are offered by a variety of reputable financial institutions. We believe that the credit risk associated with such instruments is minimal. We grant credit to customers in the normal course of business. The credit risk associated with our funeral, cemetery, and preneed funeral and preneed cemetery receivables due from customers is generally considered minimal because of the diversification of the customers served. Furthermore, bad debts have not been significant relative to the volume of deferred revenues. Customer payments on preneed funeral or preneed cemetery contracts that are either placed into state-regulated trusts or used to pay premiums on life insurance contracts generally do not subject us to collection risk. Insurance-funded contracts are subject to supervision by state insurance departments and are protected in the majority of states by insurance guaranty acts.

Commitments and Contingencies L

Commitments and Contingencies Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	Commitments and Contingencies Leases Our leases principally relate to funeral home facilities and transportation equipment. The majority of our lease arrangements contain options to (i) purchase the property at fair value on the exercise date, (ii) purchase the property for a value determined at the inception of the lease, or (iii) renew the lease for the fair rental value at the end of the primary lease term. Rental expense for operating leases was $33.3 million , $37.2 million , and $28.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. As of December 31, 2015 , future minimum lease payments for non-cancelable operating and capital leases exceeding one year were as follows: Operating Capital (In thousands) 2016 $ 14,496 $ 34,415 2017 12,110 51,756 2018 10,545 46,290 2019 8,641 21,499 2020 7,167 24,010 2021 and thereafter 61,010 26,276 Total $ 113,969 204,246 Less: Interest on capital leases (17,396 ) Total principal payable on capital leases $ 186,850 Employment and Management, Consulting, and Non-Competition Agreements We have entered into employment and management, consulting, and non-competition agreements, generally for five to ten years, with certain officers and employees and former owners of businesses that we acquired. At December 31, 2015 , the maximum estimated future cash commitments under agreements with remaining commitment terms, and with original terms of more than one year, were as follows: Employment and Management Consulting Non-Competition Total (In thousands) 2016 $ 1,427 $ 589 $ 4,751 $ 6,767 2017 988 194 4,352 5,534 2018 508 124 4,166 4,798 2019 301 75 4,022 4,398 2020 22 38 2,904 2,964 2021 and thereafter 8 — 6,060 6,068 Total $ 3,254 $ 1,020 $ 26,255 $ 30,529 Insurance Loss Reserves We purchase comprehensive general liability, morticians and cemetery professional liability, automobile liability, and workers’ compensation insurance coverage structured with high deductibles. The high-deductible insurance program means we are primarily self-insured for claims and associated costs and losses covered by these policies. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , we have self-insurance reserves of $76.6 million and $74.0 million , respectively. Litigation We are a party to various litigation matters, investigations, and proceedings. Some of the more frequent ordinary routine litigations incidental to our business are based on burial practices claims and employment related matters, including discrimination, harassment, and wage and hour laws and regulations. For each of our outstanding legal matters, we evaluate the merits of the case, our exposure to the matter, possible legal or settlement strategies, and the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome. We intend to vigorously defend ourselves in the lawsuits described herein; however, if we determine that an unfavorable outcome is probable and can be reasonably estimated, we establish the necessary accruals. We hold certain insurance policies that may reduce cash outflows with respect to an adverse outcome of certain of these litigation matters. We accrue such insurance recoveries when they become probable of being paid and can be reasonably estimated. Wage and Hour Claims. We are named a defendant in various lawsuits alleging violations of federal and state laws regulating wage and hour pay, including but not limited to the Samborsky lawsuit described below. Charles Samborsky, et al, individually and on behalf of those persons similarly situated, v. SCI California Funeral Services, Inc., et al ; Case No. BC544180; in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Los Angeles, Central District-Central Civil West Courthouse. This lawsuit was filed in April 2014 against an SCI subsidiary and purports to have been brought on behalf of employees who worked as family service counselors in California since April 2010. The plaintiffs allege causes of action for various violations of state laws regulating wage and hour pay. The plaintiffs seek unpaid wages, compensatory and punitive damages, attorneys’ fees and costs, interest, and injunctive relief. The claims have been sent to arbitration. We cannot quantify our ultimate liability, if any, in this lawsuit. Claims Regarding Acquisition of Stewart Enterprises . We are involved in the following lawsuits. Karen Moulton, Individually and on behalf of all others similarly situated v. Stewart Enterprises, Inc., Service Corporation International and others ; Case No. 2013-5636; in the Civil District Court Parish of New Orleans. This case was filed as a class action in June 2013 against SCI and our subsidiary in connection with SCI's proposed acquisition of Stewart Enterprises, Inc. The plaintiffs allege that SCI aided and abetted breaches of fiduciary duties by Stewart Enterprises and its board of directors in negotiating the combination of Stewart Enterprises with a subsidiary of SCI. The plaintiffs seek damages concerning the combination. We filed exceptions to the plaintiffs’ complaint that were granted in June 2014. Thus, subject to appeals, SCI will no longer be party to the suit. The case will continue against our subsidiary Stewart Enterprises and its former individual directors. We cannot quantify our ultimate liability, if any, for the payment of damages. S.E. Funeral Homes of California, Inc. v. The Roman Catholic Archbishop of Los Angeles, et al. ; Case No. BC559142; in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Los Angeles. The plaintiff is a company indirectly owned by Stewart Enterprises, Inc. The plaintiff filed this action in September 2014 to prevent The Roman Catholic Archbishop of Los Angeles (the “Archdiocese”) from terminating six ground leases. In reliance on the leases having 40 year terms beginning at the earliest in 1997, the plaintiff had previously made material investments since 1997 in constructing and operating funeral homes, chapels, mausoleums, and other improvements on the leased premises. In addition, the plaintiff has created a material backlog of deferred preneed revenue that plaintiff expects to receive in the coming years. In September 2014, the Archdiocese delivered notices purporting to terminate the leases and alleging that the leases were breached because the plaintiff did not obtain the Archdiocese’s consent before Stewart Enterprises, Inc. entered into a reverse merger with an affiliate of SCI. The plaintiff disputes this contention and seeks, among other things, a declaratory judgment declaring that the Archdiocese’s purported termination notices are invalid, requiring specific performance of the leases, or, in the alternative, awarding plaintiff compensatory damages. In February 2016, the Court entered a ruling on cross motions for summary judgment granting the Archdiocese's motion and denying the plaintiff's motion. The plaintiff intends to vigorously appeal these rulings. We cannot quantify the ultimate outcome in this lawsuit. The ultimate outcome of the matters described above cannot be determined at this time. We intend to vigorously defend all of the above lawsuits; however, an adverse decision in one or more of such matters could have a material effect on us, our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.

Equity Level 1 (Notes)

Equity Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]	Equity (All shares reported in whole numbers) Share Authorization We are authorized to issue 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock, $1 per share par value. No preferred shares were issued as of December 31, 2015 or 2014 . At December 31, 2015 and 2014 , 500,000,000 common shares of $1 par value were authorized. We had 200,859,676 and 205,458,331 shares issued and 195,772,876 and 204,866,770 outstanding at par at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Our components of Accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows: Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Unrealized Gains and Losses Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (In thousands) Balance at December 31, 2012 $ 111,717 $ — $ 111,717 Activity in 2013 (23,276 ) — (23,276 ) Reduction in net unrealized gains associated with available-for-sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes — (113,553 ) (113,553 ) Reclassification of net unrealized losses activity attributable to the Deferred preneed receipts held in trust and Care trusts’ corpus, net of taxes — 113,553 113,553 Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 88,441 $ — $ 88,441 Activity in 2014 (32,141 ) — (32,141 ) Reclassification of foreign currency translation adjustments to Net income from discontinued operations 3,114 — 3,114 Increase in net unrealized gains associated with available-for- sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes — (166,570 ) (166,570 ) Reclassification of net unrealized gains activity attributable to the Deferred preneed receipts held in trust and Care trusts’ corpus, net of taxes — 166,570 166,570 Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 59,414 $ — $ 59,414 Activity in 2015 (53,250 ) — (53,250 ) Increase in net unrealized gains associated with available-for-sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes — (85,140 ) (85,140 ) Reclassification of net unrealized gains activity attributable to the Deferred preneed receipts held in trust and Care trusts’ corpus, net of taxes — 85,140 85,140 Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 6,164 $ — $ 6,164 The assets and liabilities of foreign operations are translated into U.S. dollars using the current exchange rate. The U.S. dollar amount that arises from such translation, as well as exchange gains and losses on intercompany balances of a long-term investment nature, are included in the cumulative currency translation adjustments in Accumulated other comprehensive income. Share Repurchase Program Subject to market conditions, normal trading restrictions, and limitations in our debt covenants, we may make purchases in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions under our share repurchase program. Under our share repurchase program, during 2015 , we repurchased 12,455,281 shares of common stock at an aggregate cost of $345.3 million , which is an average cost per share of $27.72 . During 2014 , we repurchased 11,488,332 shares of common stock at an aggregate cost of $242.9 million , which is an average cost per share of $21.14 under the program. On August 12, 2015 , our Board of Directors increased our share repurchase authorization to $400.0 million . After these repurchases and increase in authorization, the remaining dollar value of shares authorized to be purchased under the share repurchase program was $278.8 million at December 31, 2015 . Subsequent to December 31, 2015 , we repurchased 977,396 shares for $24.0 million at an average cost per share of $24.51 . Cash Dividends On November 10, 2015 , our Board of Directors approved a cash dividend of $0.12 per common share paid on December 31, 2015 to stockholders of record as of December 15, 2015 . We paid $87.6 million , $71.5 million , and $57.2 million in cash dividends in 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. On February 10, 2016 our Board of Directors approved a cash dividend of $0.12 per common share payable on March 31, 2016 to stockholders of record as of March 15, 2016 . Noncontrolling Interest During 2015, we purchased an additional 24.4% of the common stock of our consolidated subsidiary, Wilson Financial Group, Inc. for $ 2.1 million .

Share-Based Compensation Level

Share-Based Compensation Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]	Share-Based Compensation Stock Benefit Plans We maintain benefit plans whereby shares of our common stock may be issued pursuant to the exercise of stock options or restricted stock granted to officers and key employees. Our Amended and Restated Incentive Plan reserves 44,000,000 shares of common stock for outstanding and future awards of stock options, restricted stock, and other stock based awards to officers and key employees. Our benefit plans allow for options to be granted as either non-qualified or incentive stock options. The options historically have been granted annually, or upon hire, as approved by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. The options are granted with an exercise price equal to the market price of our common stock on the date the grant, as approved by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. The options are generally exercisable at a rate of 33 1 / 3 % each year unless alternative vesting methods are approved by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. Restricted stock awards are generally expensed ratably over the period during which the restrictions lapse. At December 31, 2015 and 2014 , 1,531,410 and 4,916,787 shares, respectively, were reserved for future option and restricted stock grants under our stock benefit plans. We utilize the Black-Scholes option valuation model for estimating the fair value of our stock options. This model allows the use of a range of assumptions related to volatility, risk-free interest rate, expected holding period, and dividend yield. The expected volatility utilized in the valuation model is based on the historical volatility of our stock price. The dividend yield and expected holding period are based on historical experience and management’s estimate of future events. The risk-free interest rate is derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve based on the expected life of the option in effect at the time of grant. The fair values of our stock options are calculated using the following weighted average assumptions, based on the methods described above for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 : Years Ended December 31, Assumptions 2015 2014 2013 Dividend yield 1.8 % 1.8 % 1.9 % Expected volatility 23.3 % 27.1 % 35.2 % Risk-free interest rate 1.3 % 1.1 % 0.7 % Expected holding period (years) 4.0 4.0 4.0 The following table summarizes certain information with respect to stock option and restricted share compensation for 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , as included in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for those respective periods: December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Total pretax employee share-based compensation expense included in net income $ 13,843 $ 13,127 $ 11,925 Income tax benefit related to share-based compensation included in net income $ 5,068 $ 7,368 $ 4,689 We realized windfall tax deductions of $43.5 million , $31.6 million , and $7.3 million in excess of previously recorded tax benefits, based on the option and restricted share value at the time of grant for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. The additional tax benefit associated with the windfall is not recognized until the deduction reduces taxes payable. Stock Options The following table sets forth stock option activity for the year ended December 31, 2015 : (Shares reported in whole numbers and not in thousands) Options Weighted-Average Exercise Price Outstanding at December 31, 2014 12,107,106 $ 11.63 Granted 2,036,010 $ 23.00 Exercised (3,049,099 ) $ 10.53 Forfeited and other (46,097 ) $ 20.21 Outstanding at December 31, 2015 11,047,920 $ 13.98 Exercisable at December 31, 2015 6,917,973 $ 10.56 The aggregate intrinsic value for stock options outstanding and exercisable was $133.0 million and $107.0 million , respectively, at December 31, 2015 . Set forth below is certain information related to stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2015 : (Shares reported in whole numbers and not in thousands) Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Number Outstanding at December 31, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life Weighted- Average Number Exercisable at December 31, Weighted- Average Range of Exercise Price 2015 (in years) Exercise Price 2015 Exercise Price $0.00 — 5.00 981,087 1.1 $ 4.19 981,087 $ 4.19 $5.01 — 10.00 2,523,076 2.6 $ 8.43 2,523,076 $ 8.43 $10.01 — 15.00 1,579,044 3.9 $ 11.19 1,579,044 $ 11.19 $15.01 — 20.00 3,959,863 5.7 $ 16.48 1,771,466 $ 16.11 $20.01 — 25.00 2,004,850 7.1 $ 23.00 63,300 $ 23.00 $0.00 — 25.00 11,047,920 4.6 $ 13.98 6,917,973 $ 10.56 Other information pertaining to option activity during the years ended December 31 is as follows: 2015 2014 2013 Weighted average grant-date fair value of stock options granted $ 3.79 $ 3.34 $ 3.68 Total fair value of stock options vested (in thousands) $ 7,973 $ 6,814 $ 5,997 Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised (in thousands) $ 52,513 $ 42,048 $ 8,855 For the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , cash received from the exercise of stock options was $31.8 million , $32.4 million , and $6.3 million , respectively. We recognized compensation expense of $7.9 million , $7.5 million , and $6.7 million related to stock options for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. As of December 31, 2015 , the unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options of $8.4 million is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.3 years . Restricted Shares Restricted share activity was as follows: (Shares reported in whole numbers) Restricted Shares Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Nonvested restricted shares at December 31, 2014 1,319,260 $ 13.39 Granted 253,791 $ 23.00 Vested (990,558 ) $ 12.37 Forfeited and other (8,754 ) $ 19.83 Nonvested restricted shares at December 31, 2015 573,739 $ 19.32 The fair value of our restricted stock, as determined on the grant date, is being amortized and charged to income (with an offsetting credit to Capital in excess of par value ) generally over the average period during which the restrictions lapse. At December 31, 2015 , unrecognized compensation expense of $6.1 million related to restricted shares, which is recorded in Capital in excess of par value on our Consolidated Balance Sheet, is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.7 years . We recognized compensation expense of $5.9 million , $5.7 million , and $5.2 million during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively, related to our restricted shares.

Retirement Plans

Retirement Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]	Retirement Plans We currently have a supplemental retirement plan for certain current and former key employees (SERP), a supplemental retirement plan for officers and certain key employees (Senior SERP), a retirement plan for certain non-employee directors (Directors’ Plan), a Retirement Plan for Rose Hills Trustees, a Rose Hills Supplemental Retirement Plan, and a Stewart Supplemental Retirement Plan (collectively, the “Plans”). We also provide a 401(k) employee savings plan. All of our Plans have a measurement date of December 31 . The Plans are frozen; therefore, the participants do not earn incremental benefits from additional years of service, and we do not incur any additional service cost. Retirement benefits under the SERP are based on years of service and average monthly compensation, reduced by benefits under Social Security. The Senior SERP provides retirement benefits based on years of service and position. The Directors’ Plan provides for an annual benefit to directors following retirement, based on a vesting schedule. We recognize pension related gains and losses in our consolidated statement of operations in the year such gains and losses are incurred. The components of the Plans’ net periodic benefit cost for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Interest cost on projected benefit obligation $ 1,198 $ 1,293 $ 780 Recognized net actuarial (gains) losses (1,327 ) 2,401 (1,205 ) Total net periodic benefit cost $ (129 ) $ 3,694 $ (425 ) The Plans’ funded status at December 31 was as follows: 2015 2014 (In thousands) Change in Benefit Obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 36,920 $ 37,499 Acquisition of benefit obligation — — Interest cost 1,198 1,293 Actuarial (loss) gain (1,327 ) 2,401 Benefits paid (4,486 ) (4,273 ) Benefit obligation at end of year $ 32,305 $ 36,920 Change in Plan Assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ — $ — Employer contributions 4,486 4,273 Benefits paid, including expenses (4,486 ) (4,273 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of year $ — $ — Funded status of plan $ (32,305 ) $ (36,920 ) Funding Summary: Projected benefit obligations $ 32,305 $ 36,920 Accumulated benefit obligation $ 32,305 $ 36,920 Amounts Recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ (3,723 ) $ (4,005 ) Accrued pension - included in other liabilities (28,582 ) (32,915 ) Total accrued benefit liability $ (32,305 ) $ (36,920 ) The retirement benefits under the Plans are unfunded obligations of the Company. We have purchased various life insurance policies on the participants in the Plans with the intent to use the proceeds or any cash value buildup from such policies to assist in meeting, at least to the extent of such assets, the Plans' funding requirements. The face value of these insurance policies at December 31, 2015 and 2014 was $48.9 million and $47.8 million , respectively, and the cash surrender value was $37.7 million and $37.0 million , respectively. The outstanding loans against the policies are minimal and there are no restrictions in the policies regarding loans. The Plans’ weighted-average assumptions used to determine the benefit obligation and net benefit cost are as follows: 2015 2014 2013 Weighted average discount rate used to determine obligations 3.86 % 3.42 % 3.66 % Weighted average discount rate used to determine net periodic pension cost 2.47 % 3.69 % 2.90 % We base our discount rate used to compute future benefit obligations using an analysis of expected future benefit payments. The reasonableness of our discount rate is verified by comparing the rate to the rate earned on high-quality fixed income investments, such as the Moody’s Aa index, plus 50 basis points. The assumed rate of return on plan assets was not applicable as we pay plan benefits as they come due. As all Plans are curtailed, the assumed rate of compensation increase is zero . The following benefit payments are expected to be paid in future years related to our Plans (in thousands): 2016 $ 3,723 2017 $ 3,425 2018 $ 3,216 2019 $ 3,146 2020 $ 2,724 Years 2021 through 2025 $ 10,565 We have an employee savings plan that qualifies under section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code for the exclusive benefit of our United States employees. Under the plan, participating employees may contribute a portion of their pretax and/or after-tax income in accordance with specified guidelines up to a maximum of 50 %. During 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , we matched a percentage of the employee contributions through contributions of cash. For these years, our matching contribution was based upon the following: Years of Vesting Service Percentage of Deferred Compensation 0 — 5 years 75% of the first 6% of deferred compensation 6 — 10 years 100% of the first 6% of deferred compensation 11 or more years 125% of the first 6% of deferred compensation The amount of our matched contributions in 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 was $30.8 million , $26.8 million , and $24.3 million , respectively.

Segment Reporting Level 1 (Note

Segment Reporting Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]	Segment Reporting Our operations are both product based and geographically based, and the reportable operating segments presented below include our funeral and cemetery operations. Our geographic areas include United States and Canada. We conduct both funeral and cemetery operations in the United States and Canada. Our reportable segment information is as follows: Reportable Segments Funeral Cemetery Corporate Consolidated (In thousands) 2015 Revenue from external customers $ 1,888,812 $ 1,097,568 $ — $ 2,986,380 Interest expense $ 4,228 $ 448 $ 168,221 $ 172,897 Depreciation and amortization $ 103,119 $ 29,601 $ 8,736 $ 141,456 Amortization of intangible assets $ 22,767 $ 8,617 $ 75 $ 31,459 Gross profit $ 387,533 $ 284,412 $ — $ 671,945 Amortization of cemetery property $ — $ 62,407 $ — $ 62,407 Capital expenditures $ 53,291 $ 83,573 $ 14,122 $ 150,986 Total assets $ 5,197,037 $ 6,165,047 $ 356,804 $ 11,718,888 2014 Revenue from external customers $ 1,920,475 $ 1,073,536 $ — $ 2,994,011 Interest expense $ 4,714 $ 510 $ 172,347 $ 177,571 Depreciation and amortization $ 101,801 $ 28,745 $ 9,456 $ 140,002 Amortization of intangible assets $ 24,841 $ 11,700 $ 99 $ 36,640 Gross profit $ 409,701 $ 265,984 $ — $ 675,685 Amortization of cemetery property $ — $ 60,439 $ — $ 60,439 Capital expenditures $ 52,610 $ 78,588 $ 13,301 $ 144,499 Total assets $ 5,305,294 $ 6,152,113 $ 466,237 $ 11,923,644 2013 Revenue from external customers $ 1,698,493 $ 851,973 $ — $ 2,550,466 Interest expense $ 4,736 $ 348 $ 137,276 $ 142,360 Depreciation and amortization $ 92,588 $ 23,384 $ 6,263 $ 122,235 Amortization of intangible assets $ 17,245 $ 4,590 $ 24 $ 21,859 Gross profit $ 349,791 $ 199,256 $ — $ 549,047 Amortization of cemetery property $ — $ 48,344 $ — $ 48,344 Capital expenditures $ 50,304 $ 58,315 $ 4,320 $ 112,939 The following table reconciles gross profits from reportable segments shown above to our consolidated income from continuing operations before income taxes: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Gross profit from reportable segments $ 671,945 $ 675,685 $ 549,047 General and administrative expenses (128,188 ) (184,749 ) (155,128 ) Gains (losses) on divestitures and impairment charges, net 6,522 116,613 (6,263 ) Operating income 550,279 607,549 387,656 Interest expense (172,897 ) (177,571 ) (142,360 ) (Losses) gains on early extinguishment of debt, net (6,918 ) (29,158 ) 468 Other (expense) income, net (113 ) 1,780 (558 ) Income from continuing operations before income taxes $ 370,351 $ 402,600 $ 245,206 Our geographic area information was as follows: United States Canada Total (In thousands) 2015 Revenue from external customers $ 2,805,748 $ 180,632 $ 2,986,380 Interest expense $ 172,697 $ 200 $ 172,897 Depreciation and amortization $ 132,393 $ 9,063 $ 141,456 Amortization of intangible assets $ 30,856 $ 603 $ 31,459 Amortization of cemetery property $ 58,429 $ 3,978 $ 62,407 Operating income $ 498,615 $ 51,664 $ 550,279 Gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net $ 1,778 $ 4,744 $ 6,522 Long-lived assets $ 5,759,342 $ 253,246 $ 6,012,588 2014 Revenue from external customers $ 2,792,009 $ 202,002 $ 2,994,011 Interest expense $ 177,245 $ 326 $ 177,571 Depreciation and amortization $ 129,510 $ 10,492 $ 140,002 Amortization of intangible assets $ 35,895 $ 745 $ 36,640 Amortization of cemetery property $ 55,679 $ 4,760 $ 60,439 Operating income $ 557,608 $ 49,941 $ 607,549 Gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net $ 116,046 $ 567 $ 116,613 Long-lived assets $ 5,735,205 $ 300,515 $ 6,035,720 2013 Revenue from external customers $ 2,334,667 $ 215,799 $ 2,550,466 Interest expense $ 141,991 $ 369 $ 142,360 Depreciation and amortization $ 111,210 $ 11,025 $ 122,235 Amortization of intangible assets $ 20,846 $ 1,013 $ 21,859 Amortization of cemetery property $ 42,972 $ 5,372 $ 48,344 Operating income $ 331,143 $ 56,513 $ 387,656 Losses on divestitures and impairment charges, net $ (5,958 ) $ (305 ) $ (6,263 )

Supplementary Information Level

Supplementary Information Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Supplementary Information [Abstract]
Additional Financial Information Disclosure [Text Block]	Supplementary Information The detail of certain balance sheet accounts is as follows: December 31, 2015 2014 (In thousands) Cash and cash equivalents: Cash $ 106,831 $ 132,743 Commercial paper and temporary investments 27,768 44,592 $ 134,599 $ 177,335 Receivables, net: Notes receivable $ 2,056 $ 8,381 Atneed funeral receivables, net of allowances of $3,343 and $6,200, respectively 52,184 61,306 Atneed cemetery receivables, net of allowances of $2,153 and $2,346, respectively 13,585 14,842 Other 22,637 24,521 $ 90,462 $ 109,050 Other current assets: Income tax receivable $ 15,662 $ 22,581 Prepaid insurance 5,398 5,270 Restricted cash 12,587 28,926 Deferred debt issuance costs 9,522 9,180 Other 12,344 14,817 $ 55,513 $ 80,774 Cemetery property: Undeveloped land $ 1,186,861 $ 1,186,325 Developed lots, lawn crypts, mausoleum spaces, cremation niches, and cremation memorialization property 566,154 552,891 $ 1,753,015 $ 1,739,216 Property and equipment: Land $ 591,407 $ 603,509 Buildings and improvements 1,834,403 1,783,171 Operating equipment 530,195 500,511 Leasehold improvements 52,121 50,862 Capital leases 220,784 204,991 3,228,910 3,143,044 Less: Accumulated depreciation (1,253,872 ) (1,163,921 ) Less: Accumulated amortization of capital leases (128,316 ) (117,720 ) $ 1,846,722 $ 1,861,403 Deferred charges and other assets: Intangible assets, net $ 370,005 $ 393,781 Restricted cash 3,907 16,073 Deferred tax assets 23,817 18,778 Notes receivable, net of allowances of $11,334 and $11,259, respectively 10,229 4,858 Cash surrender value of insurance policies 108,726 102,856 Other 99,827 87,902 $ 616,511 $ 624,248 December 31, 2015 2014 (In thousands) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities: Accounts payable $ 140,045 $ 137,270 Accrued benefits 86,908 86,880 Accrued interest 28,673 30,133 Accrued property taxes 11,594 14,346 Self insurance reserves 76,611 73,991 Bank overdraft 21,808 27,798 Other accrued liabilities 57,203 82,624 $ 422,842 $ 453,042 Other liabilities: Accrued pension $ 28,582 $ 32,915 Deferred compensation 92,199 83,278 Customer refund obligation reserve 55,153 60,019 Tax liability 234,176 239,265 Indemnification liability — 236 Payable to perpetual care fund 71,133 64,722 Other 15,678 22,118 $ 496,921 $ 502,553 Revenues and Costs and Expenses The detail of certain income statement accounts is as follows for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Merchandise revenue: Funeral $ 603,405 $ 616,992 $ 584,429 Cemetery 849,251 816,980 653,211 Total merchandise revenue 1,452,656 1,433,972 1,237,640 Services revenue: Funeral 1,134,807 1,167,385 989,624 Cemetery 217,447 222,834 168,864 Total services revenue 1,352,254 1,390,219 1,158,488 Other revenue 181,470 169,820 154,338 Total revenue $ 2,986,380 $ 2,994,011 $ 2,550,466 Merchandise costs and expenses: Funeral $ 285,432 $ 292,031 $ 266,558 Cemetery 487,877 485,291 380,323 Total cost of merchandise 773,309 777,322 646,881 Services costs and expenses: Funeral 629,842 630,357 548,534 Cemetery 65,839 70,439 51,562 Total cost of services 695,681 700,796 600,096 Overhead and other expenses 845,445 840,208 754,442 Total cost and expenses $ 2,314,435 $ 2,318,326 $ 2,001,419 Certain Non-Cash Investing and Financing Transactions Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Net change in capital expenditure accrual $ 5,571 $ 1,022 $ — Options exercised by attestation $ 122 $ 761 $ 3,004 Shares repurchased $ (122 ) $ (761 ) $ (3,004 )

Earnings Per Share Level 1 (Not

Earnings Per Share Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]	Earnings Per Share Basic earnings per common share (EPS) excludes dilution and is computed by dividing Net income attributable to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other obligations to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that shared in our earnings. A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of basic and diluted EPS for the three years ended December 31 is presented below: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands, except per share amounts) Amounts attributable to common stockholders: Income from continuing operations — basic $ 234,162 $ 170,283 $ 146,926 After tax interest on convertible debt 50 51 51 Income from continuing operations — diluted $ 234,212 $ 170,334 $ 146,977 (Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax $ (390 ) $ 2,186 $ 406 Net income — basic $ 233,772 $ 172,469 $ 147,332 After tax interest on convertible debt 50 51 51 Net income — diluted $ 233,822 $ 172,520 $ 147,383 Weighted average shares: Weighted average shares — basic 200,356 210,741 211,811 Stock options 3,973 3,338 4,082 Convertible debt 121 121 121 Weighted average shares — diluted 204,450 214,200 216,014 Amounts attributable to common stockholders: Income from continuing operations per share: Basic $ 1.17 $ 0.81 $ 0.70 Diluted $ 1.14 $ 0.80 $ 0.68 Income from discontinued operations per share: Basic $ — $ 0.01 $ — Diluted $ — $ 0.01 $ — Net income per share: Basic $ 1.17 $ 0.82 $ 0.70 Diluted $ 1.14 $ 0.81 $ 0.68 The computation of diluted earnings per share excludes outstanding stock options and convertible debt in certain periods in which the inclusion of such options and debt would be antidilutive to the periods presented. Total options not currently included in the computation of diluted EPS in shares are 3 thousand , 1.5 million , and 1.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively.

Acquisition Level 1 (Notes)

Acquisition Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]	Acquisitions We spent $41.3 million and $15.3 million for several smaller, tuck-in acquisitions for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Stewart On December 23, 2013 , pursuant to a tender offer, we acquired Stewart Enterprises, Inc. (Stewart) for $13.25 per share in cash, resulting in a purchase price of $1.5 billion , which includes the assumption of $331.5 million of Stewart’s debt. Included in our results of operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013 is revenue of $11.4 million and net income of $0.8 million for the period from the acquisition date ( December 23, 2013 ) through December 31, 2013 . The following unaudited pro forma summary presents financial information as if the acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2013 (in thousands): Revenue $ 2,919,278 Net income $ 203,916 SCI Direct During 2013, we acquired an additional 20% of the outstanding shares of The Neptune Society Inc. (Neptune) increasing our ownership from 70% to 90% . During 2014, we acquired the remaining 10% of the outstanding shares. Neptune is the nation's largest direct cremation organization with a network of 30 locations in nine states at the time of our original acquisition. Neptune operates under the brand names Neptune Society TM , National Cremation Society®, and Trident Society TM . This acquisition expanded our footprint into a sector of the market that will continue to grow and that was not targeted through our traditional funeral service and cemetery network.

Divestiture Related Activities

Divestiture Related Activities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Divestiture-Related Activities [Abstract]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]	Divestiture-Related Activities As divestitures occur in the normal course of business, gains or losses on the sale of such locations are recognized in the income statement line item Gains (losses) on divestitures and impairment charges, net, which consist of the following for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Gains (losses) on divestitures, net $ 13,363 $ 122,535 $ (3,350 ) Impairment losses (6,841 ) (5,922 ) (2,913 ) $ 6,522 $ 116,613 $ (6,263 ) Discontinued Operations During the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 we sold our operations in Germany for approximately $6.9 million and are presenting the results of operations as discontinued operations as follows: Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Revenue $ — $ 1,613 $ 5,907 Costs and expenses — (1,471 ) (5,393 ) (Loss) gain on disposition (390 ) 2,136 — Other expense, net — (2 ) (1 ) (Loss) income from discontinued operations before income taxes (390 ) 2,276 513 Provision for income taxes — (90 ) (107 ) Net (loss) income from discontinued operations $ (390 ) $ 2,186 $ 406

Quarterly Financial Data

Quarterly Financial Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]	Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Quarterly financial data for 2015 and 2014 is as follows: First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2015 Revenue $ 748,117 $ 754,354 $ 714,526 $ 769,383 Costs and expenses $ (570,674 ) $ (588,096 ) $ (573,723 ) $ (581,942 ) Gross profit $ 177,443 $ 166,258 $ 140,803 $ 187,441 Operating income $ 141,115 $ 127,581 $ 124,548 $ 157,035 Income from continuing operations before income taxes (1) $ 98,118 $ 84,489 $ 74,045 $ 113,699 Provision for income taxes $ (36,653 ) $ (31,007 ) $ (26,118 ) $ (41,249 ) Net income from continuing operations $ 61,465 $ 53,482 $ 47,927 $ 72,450 Net loss from discontinued operations, net of tax $ — $ (390 ) $ — $ — Net income $ 61,465 $ 53,092 $ 47,927 $ 72,450 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests $ (90 ) $ (497 ) $ (479 ) $ (96 ) Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 61,375 $ 52,595 $ 47,448 $ 72,354 Net income attributable to common stockholders per share (2) : Basic — EPS $ 0.30 $ 0.26 $ 0.24 $ 0.37 Diluted — EPS $ 0.30 $ 0.25 $ 0.23 $ 0.36 2014 Revenue $ 745,493 $ 746,760 $ 718,314 $ 783,444 Costs and expenses $ (579,435 ) $ (590,719 ) $ (570,030 ) $ (578,142 ) Gross profit $ 166,058 $ 156,041 $ 148,284 $ 205,302 Operating income $ 107,419 $ 144,730 $ 135,119 $ 220,281 Income from continuing operations before income taxes (1) $ 63,958 $ 69,316 $ 91,735 $ 177,591 Provision for income taxes $ (22,707 ) $ (37,357 ) $ (74,934 ) $ (90,982 ) Net income from continuing operations $ 41,251 $ 31,959 $ 16,801 $ 86,609 Net income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax 140 (178 ) 884 1,340 Net income $ 41,391 $ 31,781 $ 17,685 $ 87,949 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests $ (289 ) $ (5,859 ) $ (34 ) $ (155 ) Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 41,102 $ 25,922 $ 17,651 $ 87,794 Net income attributable to common stockholders per share (2) : Basic — EPS $ 0.19 $ 0.12 $ 0.08 $ 0.42 Diluted — EPS $ 0.19 $ 0.12 $ 0.08 $ 0.42 (1) Includes (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net , as described in Note 19. (2) Net income per share is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of the quarters’ net income per share may not equal the total computed for the year.

Schedule II Valuation and Quali

Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Account	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]	SERVICE CORPORATION INTERNATIONAL SCHEDULE II — VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS Three Years Ended December 31, 2015 Description Balance at Beginning of Period Charged (Credited) to Costs and Expenses Charged (Credited) to Other Accounts(1) Write-Offs(2) Balance at End of Period (In thousands) Current provision: Allowance for doubtful accounts: Year Ended December 31, 2015 $ 8,546 $ 6,083 $ 63,964 $ (73,097 ) $ 5,496 Year Ended December 31, 2014 $ 11,637 $ 7,376 $ 55,573 $ (66,040 ) $ 8,546 Year Ended December 31, 2013 $ 8,884 $ 7,874 $ 54,774 $ (59,895 ) $ 11,637 Due After One Year: Allowance for doubtful accounts: Year Ended December 31, 2015 $ 11,259 $ — $ 75 $ — $ 11,334 Year Ended December 31, 2014 $ 10,986 $ — $ 273 $ — $ 11,259 Year Ended December 31, 2013 $ 1,316 $ — $ 9,670 $ — $ 10,986 Preneed Funeral and Preneed Cemetery Asset allowance for cancellation: Year Ended December 31, 2015 $ 107,040 $ 5,016 $ (6,283 ) $ — $ 105,773 Year Ended December 31, 2014 $ 106,793 $ 2,950 $ (2,703 ) $ — $ 107,040 Year Ended December 31, 2013 $ 83,642 $ 4,498 $ 18,653 $ — $ 106,793 Deferred Preneed Funeral and Cemetery Revenue allowance for cancellation: Year Ended December 31, 2015 $ (125,030 ) $ — $ 3,482 $ — $ (121,548 ) Year Ended December 31, 2014 $ (149,288 ) $ — $ 24,258 $ — $ (125,030 ) Year Ended December 31, 2013 $ (131,320 ) $ — $ (17,968 ) $ — $ (149,288 ) Deferred tax valuation allowance: Year Ended December 31, 2015 $ 134,201 $ (5,988 ) $ (1,559 ) $ — $ 126,654 Year Ended December 31, 2014 $ 114,719 $ 21,285 $ (1,803 ) $ — $ 134,201 Year Ended December 31, 2013 $ 71,013 $ 6,213 $ 37,493 $ — $ 114,719 (1) Primarily relates to acquisitions and dispositions of operations. (2) Uncollected receivables written off, net of recoveries.

Summary of Significant Accoun30

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Level 2 (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Service Corporation International (SCI) and all subsidiaries in which we hold a controlling financial interest. Our financial statements also include the accounts of the funeral merchandise and service trusts, cemetery merchandise and service trusts, and cemetery perpetual care trusts in which we have a variable interest and are the primary beneficiary. Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Reclassifications Prior Period Financial Statements Certain reclassifications have been made to prior period amounts to conform to the current period financial statement presentation with no effect on our previously reported results of operations, consolidated financial position, or cash flows.
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that may affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. As a result, actual results could differ from these estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Cash and Cash Equivalents We consider all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. The carrying amounts of our cash and cash equivalents approximate fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments.
Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Our trade receivables primarily consist of amounts due for funeral services already performed. We provide various allowances and cancellation reserves for our funeral and cemetery preneed and atneed receivables as well as for our preneed funeral and preneed cemetery deferred revenues. These allowances are based on an analysis of historical trends of collection and cancellation activity. Atneed funeral and cemetery receivables are considered past due after 30 days. Collections are generally managed by the locations or third party agencies acting on behalf of the locations, until a receivable is 180 days delinquent at which time it is fully reserved and sent to a collection agency. These estimates are impacted by a number of factors, including changes in the economy, relocation, and demographic or competitive changes in our areas of operation.
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Inventories and Cemetery Property Funeral and cemetery merchandise are stated at the lower of average cost or market. Cemetery property is recorded at cost. Inventory costs and cemetery property are relieved using specific identification in performance of a contract.
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Property and Equipment, Net Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense whereas renewals and major replacements that extend the assets useful lives are capitalized. Depreciation is recognized ratably over the estimated useful lives of the various classes of assets. Buildings are depreciated over a period ranging from seven to forty years, equipment is depreciated over a period from three to eight years, and leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term or ten years. Depreciation and amortization expense related to property and equipment was $141.5 million , $140.0 million , and $122.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. When property is sold or retired, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the Consolidated Balance Sheet; resulting gains and losses are included in the Consolidated Statement of Operations in the period of sale or disposal.
Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Leases We have lease arrangements related to funeral service locations and transportation equipment that were primarily classified as capital leases at December 31, 2015 . Lease terms related to funeral service locations generally range from one to 40 years with options to renew at varying terms. Lease terms related to transportation equipment generally range from one to five years with options to renew at varying terms. We calculate operating lease expense ratably over the lease term. We consider reasonably assured renewal options and fixed escalation provisions in our calculation. For more information related to leases, see Note 11.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Goodwill The excess of purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired in business combinations is recorded as goodwill. Goodwill is tested annually during the fourth quarter for impairment by assessing the fair value of each of our reporting units. Our goodwill impairment test involves estimates and management judgment. In the first step of our goodwill impairment test, we compare the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying amount, including goodwill. We determine fair value of each reporting unit using both a market and income approach. Our methodology considers discounted cash flows and multiples of EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization). The discounted cash flow valuation uses projections of future cash flows and includes assumptions concerning future operating performance and economic conditions that may differ from actual future cash flows. We do not record an impairment of goodwill in instances where the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount. If the aggregate fair value is less than the related carrying amount for a reporting unit, we compare the implied fair value of goodwill to the carrying amount of goodwill. If the carrying amount of reporting unit goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. For our most recent annual impairment test performed in the fourth quarter, we used a 6.5% discount rate, growth rates ranging from 1.7% to 7.0% over a five-year period, plus a terminal value determined using the constant growth method in projecting our future cash flows. Fair value was calculated as the sum of the projected discounted cash flows of our reporting units over the next five years plus terminal value at the end of those five years. Our terminal value was calculated using a long-term growth rate of 2.5% and 2.9% for our funeral and cemetery reporting units, respectively. In addition to our annual review, we assess the impairment of goodwill whenever certain events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be greater than fair value. Factors that could trigger an interim impairment review include, but are not limited to, significant underperformance relative to historical or projected future operating results and significant negative industry or economic trends. No interim goodwill impairment reviews were required in 2015 or 2014 .
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Indefinite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Other Intangible Assets Our intangible assets include customer relationships, trademarks and tradenames, and other intangible assets primarily resulting from acquisitions. Our trademark and tradenames and certain other intangible assets are considered to have an indefinite life and are not subject to amortization. We test for impairment of intangible assets annually during the fourth quarter. Our intangible assets impairment tests involve estimates and management judgment. For trademark and tradenames, our test uses the relief from royalty method whereby we determine the fair value of the assets by discounting the cash flows that represent a savings over having to pay a royalty fee for use of the trademark and tradenames. The discounted cash flow valuation uses projections of future cash flows and includes assumptions concerning future operating performance and economic conditions that may differ from actual future cash flows. For our most recent annual impairment test performed in the fourth quarter, we estimated that the pre-tax savings would range from 1.0% to 4.0% of the revenues associated with the trademark and tradenames, based primarily on our research of intellectual property valuation and licensing databases. We also assumed a terminal growth rate of 2.5% and 2.9% for our funeral and cemetery segments, respectively, and discounted the cash flows at a 6.7% discount rate based on the relative risk of these assets to our overall business. In addition to our annual review, we assess the impairment of intangible assets whenever certain events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be greater than the fair value. Factors that could trigger an interim impairment review include, but are not limited to, significant under-performance relative to historical or projected future operating results and significant negative industry or economic trends. No interim intangible impairment reviews were required in 2015 or 2014 . Certain of our intangible assets associated with prior acquisitions are relieved using specific identification in performance of a contract. We amortize all other finite-lived intangible assets on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives which range from two to forty years.
Stockholders' Equity, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Treasury Stock We make treasury stock purchases in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions subject to market conditions and normal trading restrictions. We account for the repurchase of our common stock under the par value method. In 2015 , we canceled 8.0 million shares of common stock held in our treasury. We canceled 11.0 million and 0.3 million shares of common stock held in our treasury in 2014 and 2013 , respectively. These retired treasury shares were changed to authorized but unissued status.
Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block]	Foreign Currency Translation All assets and liabilities of our foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates in effect as of the end of the reporting period. Revenue and expense items are translated at the average exchange rates for the reporting period. The resulting translation adjustments are included in Equity as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive income in the Consolidated Statement of Equity and Consolidated Balance Sheet. The functional currency of SCI and its subsidiaries is the respective local currency. The transactional currency gains and losses that arise from transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currencies of our operations are recorded in Other (expense) income , net in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. We do not have an investment in foreign operations considered to be in highly inflationary economies.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Fair Value Measurements We measure the available-for-sale securities held by our funeral merchandise and service, cemetery merchandise and service, and cemetery perpetual care trusts at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. We utilize a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosure of fair value measurements. The valuation hierarchy is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability as of the measurement date. The three levels are defined as follows: • Level 1 — inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets; • Level 2 — inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument; and • Level 3 — inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement. An asset’s or liability’s categorization within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Certain available-for-sale securities held by our funeral merchandise and service, cemetery merchandise and service, and cemetery perpetual care trusts have been classified in Level 3 of the hierarchy due to the significant management judgment required as a result of the absence of quoted market prices, inherent lack of liquidity, or the long-term nature of the securities. Where quoted prices are available in an active market, securities are classified as Level 1 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. Where quoted market prices are not available for the specific security, fair values are estimated by using either quoted prices of securities with similar characteristics or an income approach fair value model with observable inputs that include a combination of interest rates, yield curves, credit risks, prepayment speeds, rating, and tax-exempt status. Commingled funds are measured at and readily redeemable for net asset value. These securities are classified as Level 2 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. Where quoted prices are available in an active market, securities held by the trusts are classified as Level 1 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. Where quoted market prices are not available for the specific security, fair values are estimated by using either quoted prices of securities with similar characteristics or an income approach fair value model with observable inputs that include a combination of interest rates, yield curves, credit risks, prepayment speeds, ratings, and tax-exempt status. Commingled funds are measured at and readily redeemable for net asset value. These securities are classified as Level 2 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. Where quoted prices are available in an active market, securities held by the trusts are classified as Level 1 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. Where quoted market prices are not available for the specific security, fair values are estimated by using either quoted prices of securities with similar characteristics or an income approach fair value model with observable inputs that include a combination of interest rates, yield curves, credit risks, prepayment speeds, ratings, and tax-exempt status. These securities are classified as Level 2 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. The fair values of our long-term, fixed rate loans were estimated using market prices for those loans, and therefore they are classified within Level 2 of the fair value measurements hierarchy. The Term Loan, Bank Credit Facility agreement and the mortgage and other debt are classified within Level 3 of the fair value measurements hierarchy. The fair values of these instruments have been estimated using discounted cash flow analysis based on our incremental borrowing rate for similar borrowing arrangements.
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Earnings from all our funeral merchandise and service trust investments are recognized in funeral revenues when merchandise is delivered or a service is performed. Fees charged by our wholly-owned registered investment advisor are also included in current revenues in the period in which they are earned. In addition, we are entitled to retain, in certain jurisdictions, a portion of collected customer payments when a customer cancels a preneed contract; these amounts are also recognized in current revenues.
Finance, Loans and Leases Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Preneed Funeral and Cemetery Receivables We sell preneed contracts whereby the customer enters into arrangements for future merchandise and services prior to the time of need. As these contracts are entered into prior to the delivery of the related merchandise and services, the preneed funeral and cemetery receivables are offset by a comparable deferred revenue amount. These receivables have an interest component for which interest income is recorded when the interest amount is considered collectible and realizable, which typically coincides with cash payment. We do not accrue interest on financing receivables that are not paid in accordance with the contractual payment date given the nature of our merchandise and services, the nature of our contracts with customers, and the timing of the delivery of our services. We do not consider receivables to be past due until the merchandise or services are required to be delivered at which time the preneed receivable is paid or reclassified as a trade receivable with payment terms of less than 30 days. As the preneed funeral and cemetery receivables are offset by comparable deferred revenue amounts, we have no risk of loss related to these receivables. If a preneed contract is canceled prior to delivery, state or provincial law determines the amount of the refund owed to the customer, if any, including the amount of the attributed investment earnings. Upon cancellation, we receive the amount of principal deposited to the trust and previously undistributed net investment earnings and, where required, issue a refund to the customer. We retain excess funds, if any, and recognize the attributed investment earnings (net of any investment earnings payable to the customer) as revenue in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. In certain jurisdictions, we may be obligated to fund any shortfall if the amount deposited by the customer exceeds the funds in trust. Based on our historical experience, we have provided an allowance for cancellation of these receivables, which is recorded as a reduction in receivables with a corresponding offset to deferred revenue.
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Income Taxes We compute income taxes using the liability method. Our ability to realize the benefit of our deferred tax assets requires us to achieve certain future earnings levels. We have established a valuation allowance against a portion of our deferred tax assets and we could be required to further adjust that valuation allowance in the near term if market conditions change materially and future earnings are, or are projected to be, significantly different than our current estimates. An increase in the valuation allowance would result in additional income tax expense in such period. In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) amended the Income Taxes accounting standard to to eliminate a diversity in practice for the presentation of unrecognized tax benefits when net operating loss carryforwards, similar tax losses, or tax credit carryforwards exist. The amendment requires that the unrecognized tax benefit be presented as a reduction of the deferred tax assets associated with the carryforwards except in certain circumstances when it would be reflected as a liability. We adopted this amendment effective January 1, 2014 with no impact on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, or cash flows. The provision or benefit for income taxes includes U.S. federal income taxes (determined on a consolidated return basis), foreign income taxes, and state income taxes. Deferred taxes are determined based on differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates. A valuation allowance has been established because more-likely-than-not uncertainties exist with respect to our future realization of certain loss carry-forwards. The valuation allowance is primarily attributable to state net operating losses and reflects our expectation that the net operating losses in certain jurisdictions will expire before we generate sufficient taxable income to utilize the losses. n addition to the loss and tax credit carry-forward amounts reflected as deferred tax assets in the table above, we have taken certain tax deductions related to the exercised employee stock options and vested restricted shares that are in excess of the stock-based compensation amounts recorded in our consolidated financial statements (“windfall tax benefits”). Such windfall tax benefits are not recognized in our consolidated financial statements unless they reduce income taxes payable. For the year ended December 31, 2015, restricted share vesting and stock option exercises resulted in windfall tax benefits where the tax deduction exceeded the previously disallowed book expense in the amount of $43.5 million or $16.2 million net of tax.
Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Our funeral merchandise and service trusts are variable interest entities. We have determined that we are the primary beneficiary of these trusts, as we absorb a majority of the losses and returns associated with these trusts. Our cemetery trust investments detailed in Notes 4 and 5 are also accounted for as variable interest entities. Our cemetery merchandise and service trusts are variable interest entities. We have determined that we are the primary beneficiary of these trusts, as we absorb a majority of the losses and returns associated with these trusts. The trust investments detailed in Notes 3 and 5 are also accounted for as variable interest entities. Our cemetery perpetual care trusts are variable interest entities. We have determined that we are the primary beneficiary of these trusts, as we absorb a majority of the losses and returns associated with these trusts. The merchandise and service trust investments detailed in Notes 3 and 4 are also accounted for as variable interest entities.
Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block]	The Plans’ weighted-average assumptions used to determine the benefit obligation and net benefit cost are as follows: We currently have a supplemental retirement plan for certain current and former key employees (SERP), a supplemental retirement plan for officers and certain key employees (Senior SERP), a retirement plan for certain non-employee directors (Directors’ Plan), a Retirement Plan for Rose Hills Trustees, a Rose Hills Supplemental Retirement Plan, and a Stewart Supplemental Retirement Plan (collectively, the “Plans”). We also provide a 401(k) employee savings plan. All of our Plans have a measurement date of December 31 . The Plans are frozen; therefore, the participants do not earn incremental benefits from additional years of service, and we do not incur any additional service cost. Retirement benefits under the SERP are based on years of service and average monthly compensation, reduced by benefits under Social Security. The Senior SERP provides retirement benefits based on years of service and position. The Directors’ Plan provides for an annual benefit to directors following retirement, based on a vesting schedule.
Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block]	We have an employee savings plan that qualifies under section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code for the exclusive benefit of our United States employees. Under the plan, participating employees may contribute a portion of their pretax and/or after-tax income in accordance with specified guidelines up to a maximum of 50 %. During 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , we matched a percentage of the employee contributions through contributions of cash. For these years, our matching contribution was based upon the following: Years of Vesting Service Percentage of Deferred Compensation 0 — 5 years 75% of the first 6% of deferred compensation 6 — 10 years 100% of the first 6% of deferred compensation 11 or more years 125% of the first 6% of deferred compensation
Funeral and Cemetery cash flow [Policy Text Block]	Cash flows from preneed funeral contracts are presented as operating cash flows in our Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Cash flows from preneed cemetery contracts are presented as operating cash flows in our Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Cash flows from cemetery perpetual care contracts are presented as operating cash flows in our Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.
Revenue Recognition, Deferred Revenue [Policy Text Block]	These earnings are recorded in Deferred preneed funeral revenues until the merchandise is delivered or the service is performed. These earnings are recorded in Deferred preneed cemetery revenues until the merchandise is delivered
Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block]	We assess our trust investments for other-than-temporary declines in fair value on a quarterly basis. Impairment charges resulting from this assessment are recognized as investment losses in Other income (expense), net and a decrease to Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments . These investment losses, if any, are offset by the corresponding reclassification in Other (expense) income, net, which reduces Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust .
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]	We utilize the Black-Scholes option valuation model for estimating the fair value of our stock options.
Income Tax Uncertainties, Policy [Policy Text Block]	e include potential accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within our income tax provision account.
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]	In November 2015, the FASB amended the Income Taxes accounting standard to simplify the presentation of deferred income taxes, by requiring all deferred tax assets and liabilities, along with any related valuation allowance, to be classified as non-current on the balance sheet. Our prospective adoption of this guidance in the fourth quarter of 2015 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Revenue Recognition In May 2014 , the FASB issued the Revenue from Contracts with Customers accounting standard, which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in the Revenue Recognition accounting standard and most industry-specific guidance. This new standard is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. It also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, and timing of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. Additionally, the new standard requires the deferral of direct incremental selling costs to the period in which the underlying revenue is recognized. In August 2015, the FASB issued an amendment that defers implementation of the Revenue from Contracts with Customers accounting standard for all entities by one year. The new standard will be effective for us beginning January 1, 2018 and we intend to implement the standard with the modified retrospective approach, which recognizes the cumulative effect of application recognized on that date. We are evaluating the impact of adoption on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows. Consolidation In February 2015, the FASB amended the Consolidation accounting standard to revise the consolidation model for limited partnerships, variable interest entities, and certain investment funds. Further, the amendment provides guidance on how fee arrangements and related parties should be considered when determining whether to consolidate variable interest entities. As a result of this amendment, all legal entities are required to be reevaluated to determine if they should be consolidated. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2016 and adoption will have no impact on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows. Debt Issuance Costs In April 2015, the FASB amended the Interest—Imputation of Interest accounting standard to simplify the presentation of debt issuance costs on the balance sheet. Currently, debt issuance costs are included in Other current assets and Deferred charges and other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. The amendment requires that these costs instead be presented as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of Current maturities of long-term debt and Long-term debt , consistent with the presentation of debt discounts. In August 2015, the FASB issued an additional amendment that provides additional guidance to the Interest—Imputation of Interest accounting standard since it did not address presentation or subsequent measurement of debt issuance costs related to line-of-credit arrangements. The amendment noted that the SEC staff would not object to an entity deferring and presenting debt issuance costs as an asset and subsequently amortizing the deferred debt issuance costs ratably over the term of the line-of-credit arrangement, regardless of whether there are any outstanding borrowings on the line-of-credit arrangement. This change does not impact the manner in which the debt issuance costs are expensed over the term of the debt. The change in presentation is effective for us on January 1, 2016. As of December 31, 2015 , the effect of these amendments would have been to reduce Other current assets and Current maturities of long-term debt by $ 9.5 million and to reduce Deferred charges and other assets and Long-term debt by $35.9 million . As of December 31, 2014 the effect of these amendments would have been to reduce Other current assets and Current maturities of long-term debt by $9.2 million and to reduce Deferred charges and other assets and Long-term debt by $39.7 million . Cloud Computing Arrangements In April 2015, the FASB amended the Intangibles—Goodwill and Other—Internal-Use Software accounting standard to provide guidance on whether a cloud computing arrangement contains a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, then we should account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. If a cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, we should account for the arrangement as a service contract. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2016 and adoption will have no impact on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows. Fair Value Measurements In May 2015, the FASB amended the Fair Value Measurements accounting standard to remove the requirement to disclose the fair value measurement hierarchy level associated with investments measured at net asset value as a practical expedient. Other disclosures required by the standard for these assets remain the same. This amendment does not change the underlying accounting for these investments. The new guidance is effective for us with our first quarter 2016 filing on Form 10-Q. Inventory In July 2015, the FASB amended the Inventory accounting standard to state that an entity using an inventory method other than last-in, first out ("LIFO") or the retail inventory method should measure inventory at the lower of cost and net realizable value. The new guidance clarifies that net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2017, and we are still evaluating the impact of adoption on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows. Business Combinations In September 2015, the FASB amended the Business Combinations accounting standard to eliminate the requirement for an acquirer in a business combination to account for measurement-period adjustments retrospectively. Under the new guidance, acquirers must recognize measurement-period adjustments in the period in which they determine the amount of the adjustment. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2016 and will be applied prospectively to measurement-period adjustments occurring after the effective date, if any. Financial Instruments In January 2016, the FASB amended the Financial Instruments accounting standard to provide additional guidance on the recognition and measurement of financial assets and liabilities. The amendment requires investments in equity instruments to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value reflected in net income. The amendment also changes the guidance for debt securities held at amortized cost and liabilities under the fair value option. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2018, and we are still evaluating the impact of adoption on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows.
Funeral [Member]
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Funeral Operations Revenue is recognized when funeral merchandise is delivered or funeral services are performed. We sell price-guaranteed preneed funeral contracts through various programs providing for future funeral services at prices prevailing when the agreements are signed. Revenue associated with sales of preneed funeral contracts is deferred until funeral merchandise is delivered or the funeral services are performed, generally at the time of need. Travel protection insurance and certain memorialization merchandise sold on a preneed basis is delivered to the customer at the time of sale and is recognized at the time delivery has occurred. While these items are sold as part of preneed funeral arrangements they are also offered on a stand-alone basis. The total consideration received for these arrangements is allocated to each item based on relative selling price determined using either vendor specific objective evidence of the selling price or third-party evidence of selling price. Vendor specific objective evidence of the selling price is determined based on the price we sell the items for on a stand-alone basis. Third-party evidence of selling price is based on the price of our largely interchangeable products that are sold in stand-alone sales to similarly situated customers. There is no general right of return for delivered items. Pursuant to state or provincial law, all or a portion of the proceeds from funeral merchandise or services sold on a preneed basis may be required to be paid into trust funds. We defer investment earnings related to these merchandise and service trusts until the associated merchandise is delivered or services are performed. Costs related to sales of merchandise and services are charged to expense when merchandise is delivered or services are performed. Sales taxes collected are recognized on a net basis in our consolidated financial statements. See Note 3 for more information regarding preneed funeral activities.
Cemetery [Member]
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Cemetery Operations Revenue associated with sales of cemetery merchandise and services is recognized when merchandise is delivered or the service is performed. Revenue associated with sales of preneed cemetery property interment rights is deferred until the property is constructed and a minimum of 10% of the sales price is collected. For non-personalized merchandise (such as vaults) and services, we defer the revenues until the merchandise is delivered or the services are performed. For personalized marker merchandise, with the customer’s direction generally obtained at the time of sale, we can choose to order, store, and transfer title to the customer. In situations in which we have no further obligation or involvement related to the merchandise, we recognize revenues and record the cost of sales upon the earlier of vendor storage of these items or delivery in our cemetery. The total consideration received for these arrangements is allocated to each item based on relative selling price determined using vendor specific objective evidence of the selling price. Vendor specific objective evidence of the selling price is determined based on the price we sell the items for on a stand-alone basis. There is no general right of return for delivered items. Pursuant to state or provincial law, all or a portion of the proceeds from cemetery merchandise or services sold on a preneed basis may be required to be paid into trust funds. We defer investment earnings related to these merchandise and services trusts until the associated merchandise is delivered or services are performed. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of cemetery property interment rights is required by state or provincial law to be paid into perpetual care trust funds. Investment earnings from these trusts are distributed to us regularly, are recognized in current cemetery revenues, and are intended to defray cemetery maintenance costs, which are expensed as incurred. The principal of such perpetual care trust funds generally cannot be withdrawn. Costs related to the sale of property interment rights include the property and construction costs specifically identified by project. Property and construction costs are charged to expense when the revenue is recognized by specific identification in the performance of a contract. Costs related to sales of merchandise and services are charged to expense when merchandise is delivered or when services are performed. Sales taxes collected are recognized on a net basis in our consolidated financial statements. See Notes 4 and 5 for more information regarding preneed cemetery and perpetual care activities. Earnings from all our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are recognized in cemetery revenues when merchandise is delivered or a service is performed. Fees charged by our wholly-owned registered investment advisor are also included in current revenues in the period in which they are earned.
Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block]	We assess our trust investments for other-than-temporary declines in fair value on a quarterly basis. Impairment charges resulting from this assessment are recognized as investment losses in Other income (expense), net and a decrease to Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments . These investment losses, if any, are offset by the corresponding reclassification in Other income (expense), net, which reduces Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust .
Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Distributable earnings from these cemetery perpetual care trust investments are recognized in current cemetery revenues to the extent we incur qualifying cemetery maintenance costs. Fees charged by our wholly-owned registered investment advisor are also included in current revenues in the period in which they are earned.
Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block]	We assess our trust investments for other-than-temporary declines in fair value on a quarterly basis. Impairment charges resulting from this assessment are recognized as investment losses in Other (expense) income, net and a decrease to Cemetery perpetual care trust investments . These investment losses, if any, are offset by the corresponding reclassification in Other (expense) income, net, which reduces Care trusts’ corpus .

Preneed Funeral Activities Le31

Preneed Funeral Activities Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Preneed funeral receivables net and trust investments [Line Items]
Preneed Funeral Receivables, Net and Trust Investments [Table Text Block]	The activity in Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments for the years ended December 31 was as follows: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments $ 1,843,023 $ 1,870,243 $ 1,536,257 Net preneed contract sales 283,927 247,994 192,712 Cash receipts from customers, net of refunds (234,413 ) (211,830 ) (170,921 ) Deposits to trust 121,109 102,553 82,168 Acquisitions (divestitures) of businesses, net 1,400 (19,203 ) 271,395 Net undistributed investment (losses) earnings (1) (38,510 ) 22,480 125,986 Maturities and distributed earnings (200,635 ) (162,059 ) (153,446 ) Change in cancellation allowance 2,787 7,644 (3,245 ) Effect of foreign currency and other (18,391 ) (14,799 ) (10,663 ) Ending balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments $ 1,760,297 $ 1,843,023 $ 1,870,243 (1) Includes both realized and unrealized investment earnings.
Deferred Preneed Funeral Revenues [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes the activity in Deferred preneed funeral revenues for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenue, net $ 540,164 $ 551,948 $ 535,136 Net preneed contract sales 232,628 198,195 144,202 (Divestitures) acquisitions of businesses, net (2,895 ) (21,639 ) 298,047 Net investment (losses) earnings (1) (37,208 ) 24,256 126,428 Recognized deferred preneed revenue (276,359 ) (258,534 ) (200,680 ) Change in cancellation allowance 11,675 21,272 (5,670 ) Change in deferred preneed receipts held in trust 90,351 26,131 (343,878 ) Effect of foreign currency and other (459 ) (1,465 ) (1,637 ) Ending balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenue, net $ 557,897 $ 540,164 $ 551,948 (1) Includes both realized and unrealized investment earnings.
Funeral [Member]
Preneed funeral receivables net and trust investments [Line Items]
Investment related activities [Table Text Block]	The table below sets forth certain investment-related activities associated with our preneed funeral merchandise and service trusts for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Deposits $ 121,109 $ 102,553 $ 82,168 Withdrawals $ 160,135 $ 131,352 $ 125,914 Purchases of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 453,092 $ 1,238,257 $ 393,169 Sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 458,236 $ 1,318,512 $ 435,267 Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 42,034 $ 168,567 $ 65,011 Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ (31,403 ) $ (113,748 ) $ (9,732 ) (1) The increase in activity in 2014 is the result of changing the legal structure of the trust investments.
Long-term receivable and investment components [Table Text Block]	The components of Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31 were as follows: 2015 2014 (In thousands) Trust investments, at market $ 1,109,394 $ 1,205,747 Cash and cash equivalents 134,642 162,229 Assets associated with businesses held for sale (39 ) — Insurance-backed fixed income securities 271,116 260,899 Trust investments 1,515,113 1,628,875 Receivables from customers 290,689 262,700 Unearned finance charge (11,235 ) (11,054 ) 1,794,567 1,880,521 Allowance for cancellation (34,270 ) (37,498 ) Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments $ 1,760,297 $ 1,843,023
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	The cost and market values associated with our funeral merchandise and service trust investments recorded at fair value at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are detailed below. Cost reflects the investment (net of redemptions) of control holders in the trusts. Fair value represents the value of the underlying securities held by the trusts. December 31, 2015 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 82,417 $ 107 $ (1,331 ) $ 81,193 Canadian government 2 72,488 532 (655 ) 72,365 Corporate 2 19,036 235 (284 ) 18,987 Residential mortgage-backed 2 1,297 29 (22 ) 1,304 Asset-backed 2 5 — — 5 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 1,949 41 (158 ) 1,832 Common stock: United States 1 344,116 30,885 (19,149 ) 355,852 Canada 1 11,930 2,652 (1,077 ) 13,505 Other international 1 32,156 2,636 (3,907 ) 30,885 Mutual funds: Equity 1 323,884 1,263 (43,975 ) 281,172 Fixed income 1 155,717 154 (13,092 ) 142,779 Commingled funds: Fixed income 2 69,148 — (442 ) 68,706 Private equity 3 38,201 3,703 (6,467 ) 35,437 Other 3 4,226 1,146 — 5,372 Trust investments $ 1,156,570 $ 43,383 $ (90,559 ) $ 1,109,394 December 31, 2014 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 85,775 $ 468 $ (455 ) $ 85,788 Canadian government 2 90,430 449 (874 ) 90,005 Corporate 2 24,765 423 (126 ) 25,062 Residential mortgage-backed 2 1,325 29 (12 ) 1,342 Asset-backed 2 6 — — 6 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 2,503 113 (113 ) 2,503 Common stock: United States 1 377,441 18,533 (7,405 ) 388,569 Canada 1 14,708 4,292 (895 ) 18,105 Other international 1 38,035 1,175 (1,560 ) 37,650 Mutual funds: Equity 1 308,548 3,332 (15,901 ) 295,979 Fixed income 1 229,414 869 (3,576 ) 226,707 Private equity 3 35,094 2,649 (9,418 ) 28,325 Other 3 5,084 726 (104 ) 5,706 Trust investments $ 1,213,128 $ 33,058 $ (40,439 ) $ 1,205,747
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	The change in our market-based funeral merchandise and service trust investments with significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) is as follows for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 : 2015 2014 2013 Private Equity Other Private Equity Other Private Equity Other (In thousands) Fair value, beginning balance at January 1, $ 28,325 $ 5,706 $ 26,885 $ 1,808 $ 17,879 $ 744 Net unrealized gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (1) 6,449 214 2,242 826 13,429 1,442 Net realized losses included in Other income (expense), net (2) (44 ) (15 ) (39 ) (6 ) (43 ) (3 ) Purchases — 32 — 3,214 1,188 — Sales (36 ) — — — — — Contributions 7,464 1,297 6,122 4 3,229 — Distributions and other (6,721 ) (1,862 ) (6,885 ) (140 ) (9,245 ) (393 ) Acquisitions — — — — 448 18 Fair value, ending balance at December 31, $ 35,437 $ 5,372 $ 28,325 $ 5,706 $ 26,885 $ 1,808 (1) All unrealized gains recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income for our funeral merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Accumulated other comprehensive income to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . (2) All losses recognized in Other income (expense), net for our funeral merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Other income (expense), net to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust .
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]	Maturity dates of our fixed income securities range from 2016 to 2045 . Maturities of fixed income securities at December 31, 2015 are estimated as follows: Fair Value (In thousands) Due in one year or less $ 107,784 Due in one to five years 25,635 Due in five to ten years 26,390 Thereafter 14,045 $ 173,854
Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block]	Our funeral merchandise and service trust investment unrealized losses, their associated fair values, and the duration of unrealized losses for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , are shown in the following tables. December 31, 2015 In Loss Position Less Than 12 Months In Loss Position Greater Than 12 Months Total Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury $ 37,008 $ (1,273 ) $ 4,687 $ (58 ) $ 41,695 $ (1,331 ) Canadian government 2,336 (17 ) 11,535 (638 ) 13,871 (655 ) Corporate 4,644 (156 ) 4,025 (128 ) 8,669 (284 ) Residential mortgage-backed 377 (6 ) 133 (16 ) 510 (22 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 448 (60 ) 42 (98 ) 490 (158 ) Common stock: United States 128,725 (16,448 ) 14,531 (2,701 ) 143,256 (19,149 ) Canada 1,956 (355 ) 1,097 (722 ) 3,053 (1,077 ) Other international 9,458 (1,638 ) 6,151 (2,269 ) 15,609 (3,907 ) Mutual funds: Equity 185,726 (23,385 ) 79,855 (20,590 ) 265,581 (43,975 ) Fixed income 108,984 (5,052 ) 27,048 (8,040 ) 136,032 (13,092 ) Commingled funds: Fixed income 68,578 (442 ) — — 68,578 (442 ) Private equity — — 18,713 (6,467 ) 18,713 (6,467 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 548,240 $ (48,832 ) $ 167,817 $ (41,727 ) $ 716,057 $ (90,559 ) December 31, 2014 In Loss Position Less Than 12 Months In Loss Position Greater Than 12 Months Total Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury $ 32,243 $ (412 ) $ 4,978 $ (43 ) $ 37,221 $ (455 ) Canadian government 2,894 (52 ) 14,904 (822 ) 17,798 (874 ) Corporate 4,988 (56 ) 2,420 (70 ) 7,408 (126 ) Residential mortgage-backed 217 (10 ) 106 (2 ) 323 (12 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 26 (113 ) — — 26 (113 ) Common stock: United States 126,527 (7,403 ) 438 (2 ) 126,965 (7,405 ) Canada 1,752 (379 ) 1,085 (516 ) 2,837 (895 ) Other international 19,593 (1,557 ) 2 (3 ) 19,595 (1,560 ) Mutual funds: Equity 233,827 (13,219 ) 23,717 (2,682 ) 257,544 (15,901 ) Fixed income 112,160 (3,128 ) 11,452 (448 ) 123,612 (3,576 ) Private equity 203 (461 ) 13,870 (8,957 ) 14,073 (9,418 ) Other 5 (11 ) 464 (93 ) 469 (104 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 534,435 $ (26,801 ) $ 73,436 $ (13,638 ) $ 607,871 $ (40,439 )

Preneed Cemetery Activities L32

Preneed Cemetery Activities Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Preneed Cemetery Receivables, Net and Trust Investments [Line Items]
Preneed Cemetery Receivables, Net and Trust Investments [Table Text Block]	The activity in Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments for the years ended December 31 was as follows: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Preneed cemetery receivables and trust investments $ 2,306,669 $ 2,292,348 $ 1,826,835 Net preneed contract sales 799,497 688,336 562,433 Acquisitions (divestitures) of businesses, net 4,404 (10,898 ) 190,870 Net undistributed investment (losses) earnings (1) (42,189 ) (18,038 ) 203,499 Cash receipts from customers, net of refunds (716,686 ) (615,489 ) (471,710 ) Deposits to trust 153,252 129,581 106,185 Maturities, deliveries, and associated earnings (163,732 ) (150,064 ) (119,576 ) Change in cancellation allowance (2,046 ) 843 3,002 Effect of foreign currency and other (21,002 ) (9,950 ) (9,190 ) Ending balance — Preneed cemetery receivables and trust investments $ 2,318,167 $ 2,306,669 $ 2,292,348 (1) Includes both realized and unrealized investment (losses) earnings
Deferred Preneed Cemetery Revenues [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes the activity in Deferred preneed cemetery revenues for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenue $ 1,062,381 $ 1,016,275 $ 861,148 Net preneed and atneed deferred sales 561,899 531,768 396,264 Acquisitions (Divestitures) of businesses, net 2,357 (25,071 ) 212,624 Net investment (losses) earnings (1) (42,806 ) (22,378 ) 201,941 Recognized deferred preneed revenue (504,064 ) (493,739 ) (386,632 ) Change in cancellation allowance (8,048 ) 3,833 18,358 Change in deferred preneed receipts held in trust 52,050 55,636 (298,337 ) Effect of foreign currency and other (3,768 ) (3,943 ) 10,909 Ending balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenue $ 1,120,001 $ 1,062,381 $ 1,016,275 (1) Includes both realized and unrealized investment (losses) earnings.
Cemetery [Member]
Preneed Cemetery Receivables, Net and Trust Investments [Line Items]
Investment related activities [Table Text Block]	The table below sets forth certain investment-related activities associated with our preneed cemetery merchandise and service trusts for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Deposits $ 153,252 $ 129,581 $ 106,185 Withdrawals $ 163,732 $ 150,064 $ 119,576 Purchases of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 625,648 $ 1,786,800 $ 477,772 Sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 628,484 $ 1,842,417 $ 498,852 Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 51,510 $ 271,507 $ 101,337 Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ (40,092 ) $ (138,473 ) $ (14,593 )
Long-term receivable and investment components [Table Text Block]	The components of Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31 were as follows: 2015 2014 (In thousands) Trust investments, at market $ 1,343,916 $ 1,404,298 Cash and cash equivalents 118,583 122,355 Trust investments 1,462,499 1,526,653 Receivables from customers 958,503 881,082 Unearned finance charges (31,332 ) (31,524 ) 2,389,670 2,376,211 Allowance for cancellation (71,503 ) (69,542 ) Preneed cemetery receivables and trust investments $ 2,318,167 $ 2,306,669
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	The cost and market values associated with our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments recorded at fair value at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are detailed below. Cost reflects the investment (net of redemptions) of control holders in the trusts. Fair value represents the value of the underlying securities held by the trusts. December 31, 2015 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 69,746 $ 25 $ (1,437 ) $ 68,334 Canadian government 2 24,648 183 (169 ) 24,662 Corporate 2 5,112 26 (118 ) 5,020 Residential mortgage-backed 2 129 3 (3 ) 129 Asset-backed 2 170 15 — 185 Equity securities: Common stock: United States 1 532,026 44,181 (32,037 ) 544,170 Canada 1 8,984 3,858 (891 ) 11,951 Other international 1 50,053 4,207 (5,799 ) 48,461 Mutual funds: Equity 1 356,798 1,620 (49,642 ) 308,776 Fixed income 1 203,983 92 (18,526 ) 185,549 Commingled funds: Fixed income 2 108,883 — (570 ) 108,313 Private equity 3 34,810 5,803 (4,502 ) 36,111 Other 3 1,982 273 — 2,255 Trust investments $ 1,397,324 $ 60,286 $ (113,694 ) $ 1,343,916 December 31, 2014 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 63,447 $ 257 $ (605 ) $ 63,099 Canadian government 2 21,687 261 (134 ) 21,814 Corporate 2 8,725 122 (116 ) 8,731 Residential mortgage-backed 2 111 3 (1 ) 113 Asset-backed 2 170 16 — 186 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 10 1 — 11 Common stock: United States 1 557,955 22,746 (11,706 ) 568,995 Canada 1 10,962 5,011 (841 ) 15,132 Other international 1 55,632 1,605 (2,395 ) 54,842 Mutual funds: Equity 1 344,443 4,244 (18,430 ) 330,257 Fixed income 1 314,600 679 (4,702 ) 310,577 Private equity 3 32,342 3,185 (6,183 ) 29,344 Other 3 1,082 186 (71 ) 1,197 Trust investments $ 1,411,166 $ 38,316 $ (45,184 ) $ 1,404,298
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	The change in our market-based cemetery merchandise and service trust investments with significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) is as follows for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 Private Equity Other Private Equity Other Private Equity Other (In thousands) Fair value, beginning balance at January 1, $ 29,344 $ 1,197 $ 26,844 $ 1,245 $ 17,687 $ 450 Net unrealized gains (losses) included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (1) 5,723 228 3,313 (73 ) 15,420 1,218 Net realized losses included in Other income (expense), net (2) (45 ) (15 ) (43 ) (7 ) (48 ) (5 ) Purchases — 1,328 — 196 — — Contributions 7,935 1,390 6,582 4 3,430 — Distributions and other (6,846 ) (1,873 ) (7,352 ) (168 ) (9,645 ) (418 ) Fair value, ending balance at December 31, $ 36,111 $ 2,255 $ 29,344 $ 1,197 $ 26,844 $ 1,245 (1) All unrealized gains recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income for our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Accumulated other comprehensive income to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . (2) All losses recognized in Other income (expense), net for our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Other income (expense), net to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust . See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust .
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]	Maturity dates of our fixed income securities range from 2016 to 2045 . Maturities of fixed income securities (excluding mutual funds) at December 31, 2015 are estimated as follows: Fair Value (In thousands) Due in one year or less $ 26,698 Due in one to five years 25,843 Due in five to ten years 27,094 Thereafter 18,695 $ 98,330
Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block]	Our cemetery merchandise and service trust investment unrealized losses, their associated fair values, and the duration of unrealized losses for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , are shown in the following tables: December 31, 2015 In Loss Position Less Than 12 Months In Loss Position Greater Than 12 Months Total Fair Value Unrealized Losses Fair Value Unrealized Losses Fair Value Unrealized Losses (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury $ 52,533 $ (1,435 ) $ 21 $ (2 ) $ 52,554 $ (1,437 ) Canadian government 16,039 (105 ) 841 (64 ) 16,880 (169 ) Corporate 1,754 (22 ) 2,347 (96 ) 4,101 (118 ) Residential mortgage-backed 42 (1 ) 18 (2 ) 60 (3 ) Equity securities: Common stock: United States 198,843 (26,038 ) 21,355 (5,999 ) 220,198 (32,037 ) Canada 470 (6 ) 1,430 (885 ) 1,900 (891 ) Other international 15,567 (2,507 ) 9,412 (3,292 ) 24,979 (5,799 ) Mutual funds: Equity 207,349 (25,991 ) 86,720 (23,651 ) 294,069 (49,642 ) Fixed income 139,749 (6,322 ) 44,550 (12,204 ) 184,299 (18,526 ) Commingled funds: Fixed income 108,347 (570 ) — — 108,347 (570 ) Private equity — — 9,526 (4,502 ) 9,526 (4,502 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 740,693 $ (62,997 ) $ 176,220 $ (50,697 ) $ 916,913 $ (113,694 ) December 31, 2014 In Loss Position Less Than 12 Months In Loss Position Greater Than 12 Months Total Fair Value Unrealized Losses Fair Value Unrealized Losses Fair Value Unrealized Losses (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury $ 45,072 $ (605 ) $ — $ — $ 45,072 $ (605 ) Canadian government — — 4,858 (134 ) 4,858 (134 ) Corporate 2,017 (61 ) 1,936 (55 ) 3,953 (116 ) Residential mortgage-backed 33 (1 ) — — 33 (1 ) Equity securities: Common stock: United States 192,015 (11,706 ) 585 — 192,600 (11,706 ) Canada 2,069 (319 ) 778 (522 ) 2,847 (841 ) Other international 28,308 (2,395 ) — — 28,308 (2,395 ) Mutual funds: Equity 303,211 (18,329 ) 1,577 (101 ) 304,788 (18,430 ) Fixed income 159,572 (4,106 ) 15,113 (596 ) 174,685 (4,702 ) Private equity 88 (100 ) 7,518 (6,083 ) 7,606 (6,183 ) Other 2 (3 ) 259 (68 ) 261 (71 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 732,387 $ (37,625 ) $ 32,624 $ (7,559 ) $ 765,011 $ (45,184 )

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust33

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Level 3 (Tables) - Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust Investments [Line Items]
Investment related activities [Table Text Block]	The table below sets forth certain investment-related activities associated with our cemetery perpetual care trusts for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Deposits $ 38,883 $ 42,220 $ 26,501 Withdrawals $ 40,447 $ 46,981 $ 33,557 Purchases of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 247,658 $ 1,306,314 $ 139,439 Sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 175,057 $ 1,396,669 $ 99,701 Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 6,933 $ 134,259 $ 17,916 Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ (7,708 ) $ (51,093 ) $ (2,738 )
Long-term receivable and investment components [Table Text Block]	The components of Cemetery perpetual care trust investments in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31 were as follows: 2015 2014 (In thousands) Trust investments, at market $ 1,232,592 $ 1,192,966 Cash and cash equivalents 86,835 148,410 Cemetery perpetual care trust investments $ 1,319,427 $ 1,341,376
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	The cost and market values associated with our cemetery perpetual care trust investments recorded at fair value at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are detailed below. Cost reflects the investment (net of redemptions) of control holders in the trusts. Fair value represents the value of the underlying securities or cash held by the trusts. December 31, 2015 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 3,636 $ 20 $ (81 ) $ 3,575 Canadian government 2 32,477 321 (266 ) 32,532 Corporate 2 12,694 149 (284 ) 12,559 Residential mortgage-backed 2 934 13 (9 ) 938 Asset-backed 2 660 5 (31 ) 634 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 5,850 55 (159 ) 5,746 Common stock: United States 1 231,012 15,224 (10,898 ) 235,338 Canada 1 5,648 2,112 (606 ) 7,154 Other international 1 14,820 160 (2,390 ) 12,590 Mutual funds: Equity 1 21,783 3,138 (1,850 ) 23,071 Fixed income 1 890,013 530 (63,913 ) 826,630 Private equity 3 62,549 1,942 (8,096 ) 56,395 Other 3 13,709 1,721 — 15,430 Cemetery perpetual care trust investments $ 1,295,785 $ 25,390 $ (88,583 ) $ 1,232,592 December 31, 2014 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 794 $ 40 $ (4 ) $ 830 Canadian government 2 31,993 442 (233 ) 32,202 Corporate 2 16,762 344 (210 ) 16,896 Residential mortgage-backed 2 910 15 (6 ) 919 Asset-backed 2 661 10 (4 ) 667 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 4,439 60 (12 ) 4,487 Common stock: United States 1 225,129 9,340 (4,881 ) 229,588 Canada 1 7,419 2,737 (596 ) 9,560 Other international 1 8,102 90 (399 ) 7,793 Mutual funds: Equity 1 17,310 3,264 (93 ) 20,481 Fixed income 1 846,230 1,580 (14,263 ) 833,547 Private equity 3 34,288 408 (10,788 ) 23,908 Other 3 13,526 1,094 (2,532 ) 12,088 Cemetery perpetual care trust investments $ 1,207,563 $ 19,424 $ (34,021 ) $ 1,192,966
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	The change in our market-based cemetery perpetual care trust investments with significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) is as follows for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 Private Equity Other Private Equity Other Private Equity Other (In thousands) Fair value, beginning balance at January 1, $ 23,908 $ 12,088 $ 19,779 $ 11,590 $ 11,122 $ 7,659 Net unrealized gains (losses) included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (1) 10,793 (828 ) 1,216 2,145 6,897 4,081 Net realized losses included in Other income (expense), net (2) (20 ) (24 ) (70 ) (44 ) (142 ) (76 ) Sales — — — (17 ) — — Contributions 25,836 5,829 10,461 — 3,706 — Distributions and other (4,122 ) (1,635 ) (7,478 ) (1,586 ) (1,841 ) (508 ) Acquisitions — — — — 37 434 Fair value, ending balance at December 31, $ 56,395 $ 15,430 $ 23,908 $ 12,088 $ 19,779 $ 11,590 (1) All unrealized gains (losses) recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income for our cemetery perpetual care trust investments are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Accumulated other comprehensive income to Care trusts’ corpus . See Note 6 for further information related to our Care trusts’ corpus . (2) All losses recognized in Other income (expense), net for our cemetery perpetual care trust investments are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Other income (expense), net to Care trusts’ corpus . See Note 6 for further information related to our Care trusts’ corpus .
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]	Maturity dates of our fixed income securities range from 2016 to 2045 . Maturities of fixed income securities at December 31, 2015 are estimated as follows: Fair Value (In thousands) Due in one year or less $ 27,700 Due in one to five years 21,107 Due in five to ten years 448 Thereafter 983 $ 50,238
Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block]	Our cemetery perpetual care trust investment unrealized losses, their associated fair values and the duration of unrealized losses for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , are shown in the following table: December 31, 2015 In Loss Position Less Than 12 Months In Loss Position Greater Than 12 Months Total Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury $ 3,275 $ (80 ) $ 35 $ (1 ) $ 3,310 $ (81 ) Canadian government 18,499 (164 ) 1,371 (102 ) 19,870 (266 ) Corporate 5,163 (134 ) 4,147 (150 ) 9,310 (284 ) Residential mortgage-backed 303 (3 ) 117 (6 ) 420 (9 ) Asset-backed 145 (12 ) 360 (19 ) 505 (31 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 4,029 (159 ) — — 4,029 (159 ) Common stock: United States 81,624 (7,793 ) 14,900 (3,105 ) 96,524 (10,898 ) Canada 702 (31 ) 1,026 (575 ) 1,728 (606 ) Other international 8,734 (940 ) 2,347 (1,450 ) 11,081 (2,390 ) Mutual funds: Equity 4,580 (606 ) 1,258 (1,244 ) 5,838 (1,850 ) Fixed income 519,981 (18,205 ) 294,309 (45,708 ) 814,290 (63,913 ) Private equity 10,594 (61 ) 24,556 (8,035 ) 35,150 (8,096 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 657,629 $ (28,188 ) $ 344,426 $ (60,395 ) $ 1,002,055 $ (88,583 ) December 31, 2014 In Loss Position Less Than 12 Months In Loss Position Greater Than 12 Months Total Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses Fair Market Value Unrealized Losses (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury $ 497 $ (4 ) $ — $ — $ 497 $ (4 ) Canadian government — — 7,825 (233 ) 7,825 (233 ) Corporate 4,656 (108 ) 3,198 (102 ) 7,854 (210 ) Residential mortgage-backed 256 (5 ) 69 (1 ) 325 (6 ) Asset-backed 373 (4 ) — — 373 (4 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 2,224 (11 ) 49 (1 ) 2,273 (12 ) Common stock: United States 100,370 (4,803 ) 419 (78 ) 100,789 (4,881 ) Canada 2,418 (244 ) 757 (352 ) 3,175 (596 ) Other international 4,444 (399 ) — — 4,444 (399 ) Mutual funds: Equity 2,601 (85 ) 153 (8 ) 2,754 (93 ) Fixed income 576,890 (14,177 ) 2,581 (86 ) 579,471 (14,263 ) Private equity 9,213 (798 ) 14,254 (9,990 ) 23,467 (10,788 ) Other 4,069 (352 ) 6,276 (2,180 ) 10,345 (2,532 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 708,011 $ (20,990 ) $ 35,581 $ (13,031 ) $ 743,592 $ (34,021 )

Deferred Preneed Funeral and 34

Deferred Preneed Funeral and Cemetery Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trusts' Corpus Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Deferred Preneed Funeral and Cemetery Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trusts' Corpus [Abstract]
Schedule of Deferred Preneed Funeral and Cemetery Receitps Held in Trust Components [Table Text Block]	The components of Deferred preneed receipts held in trust in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are detailed below. December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Preneed Funeral Preneed Cemetery Total Preneed Funeral Preneed Cemetery Total (In thousands) (In thousands) Trust investments $ 1,515,113 $ 1,462,499 $ 2,977,612 $ 1,628,875 $ 1,526,653 $ 3,155,528 Accrued trust operating payables and other (1,381 ) (2,845 ) (4,226 ) (2,487 ) (4,157 ) (6,644 ) Deferred preneed receipts held in trust $ 1,513,732 $ 1,459,654 $ 2,973,386 $ 1,626,388 $ 1,522,496 $ 3,148,884
Schedule of Care Trust Corpus' Components [Table Text Block]	The components of Care trusts’ corpus in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are detailed below. December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 (In thousands) Cemetery perpetual care trust investments $ 1,319,427 $ 1,341,376 Accrued trust operating payables and other 137 (13,718 ) Care trusts’ corpus $ 1,319,564 $ 1,327,658
Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income, by Component [Table Text Block]	The components of Other (expense) income, net in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 are detailed below. See Notes 3, 4, and 5 for further discussion of the amounts related to our funeral, cemetery, and cemetery perpetual care trusts. Year Ended December 31, 2015 Funeral Trusts Cemetery Trusts Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Other, Net Total (In thousands) Realized gains $ 42,034 $ 51,510 $ 6,933 $ — $ 100,477 Realized losses (31,403 ) (40,092 ) (7,708 ) — (79,203 ) Impairment charges (3,519 ) (4,345 ) (1,812 ) — (9,676 ) Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income 25,952 27,089 56,253 — 109,294 Trust expenses and income taxes (21,852 ) (31,472 ) (32,643 ) — (85,967 ) Net trust investment income 11,212 2,690 21,023 — 34,925 Reclassification to deferred preneed receipts held in trust and care trusts’ corpus (11,212 ) (2,690 ) (21,023 ) — (34,925 ) Other expense, net — — — (113 ) (113 ) Total other expense, net $ — $ — $ — $ (113 ) $ (113 ) Year Ended December 31, 2014 Funeral Trusts Cemetery Trusts Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Other, Net Total (In thousands) Realized gains $ 168,567 $ 271,507 $ 134,259 $ — $ 574,333 Realized losses (113,748 ) (138,473 ) (51,093 ) — (303,314 ) Impairment charges (41,846 ) (60,040 ) (8,072 ) — (109,958 ) Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income 22,668 17,597 52,126 — 92,391 Trust expenses and income taxes (19,590 ) (20,833 ) (34,243 ) — (74,666 ) Net trust investment income 16,051 69,758 92,977 — 178,786 Reclassification to deferred preneed receipts held in trust and care trusts’ corpus (16,051 ) (69,758 ) (92,977 ) — (178,786 ) Other income, net — — — 1,780 1,780 Total other income, net $ — $ — $ — $ 1,780 $ 1,780 December 31, 2013 Funeral Trusts Cemetery Trusts Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Other, Net Total (In thousands) Realized gains $ 65,011 $ 101,337 $ 17,916 $ — $ 184,264 Realized losses (9,732 ) (14,593 ) (2,738 ) — (27,063 ) Impairment charges (829 ) (1,575 ) (192 ) — (2,596 ) Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income 24,912 20,527 41,269 — 86,708 Trust expenses and income taxes (11,371 ) (14,633 ) (16,445 ) — (42,449 ) Net trust investment income 67,991 91,063 39,810 — 198,864 Reclassification to deferred preneed receipts held in trust and care trusts’ corpus (67,991 ) (91,063 ) (39,810 ) — (198,864 ) Other expense, net — — — (558 ) (558 ) Total other expense, net $ — $ — $ — $ (558 ) $ (558 )

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]	The changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill for our funeral and cemetery reporting units are as follows: (in thousands): 2015 2014 Funeral Cemetery Total Funeral Cemetery Total (In thousands) Balance as of January 1, $ 1,510,879 $ 299,974 $ 1,810,853 $ 1,526,011 $ 299,710 $ 1,825,721 Increase in goodwill related to acquisitions 6,460 6,201 12,661 292 3,238 3,530 Reduction of goodwill related to divestitures (8,908 ) (262 ) (9,170 ) (5,959 ) (2,960 ) (8,919 ) Effect of foreign currency (17,929 ) (75 ) (18,004 ) (9,465 ) (14 ) (9,479 ) Activity (20,377 ) 5,864 (14,513 ) (15,132 ) 264 (14,868 ) Balance as of December 31, $ 1,490,502 $ 305,838 $ 1,796,340 $ 1,510,879 $ 299,974 $ 1,810,853
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]	The components of intangible assets at December 31 were as follows: Useful life Minimum Maximum 2015 2014 (Years) (In thousands) Amortizing intangibles: Covenants-not-to-compete 2 - 20 $ 206,822 $ 209,920 Customer relationships 10 - 20 154,364 148,351 Tradenames 5 - 5 12,750 12,750 Other 5 - 40 11,927 11,927 385,863 382,948 Less: Accumulated amortization 257,157 220,682 Amortizing intangibles, net 128,706 162,266 Non-amortizing intangibles: Tradenames Indefinite 230,659 220,875 Other Indefinite 10,640 10,640 Non-amortizing intangibles 241,299 231,515 Intangible assets, net $ 370,005 $ 393,781
Schedule of Expected Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]	The following is estimated amortization expense, excluding certain intangibles for which we are unable to provide an estimate because they are amortized based on specific identification in the performance of a preneed contract, for the five years subsequent to December 31, 2015 (in thousands): 2016 $ 14,490 2017 $ 11,876 2018 $ 11,119 2019 $ 7,869 2020 $ 6,772

Income Taxes Level 3 (Tables)

Income Taxes Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block]	Income from continuing operations before income taxes for the years ended December 31 was composed of the following components: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) United States $ 331,622 $ 360,800 $ 199,374 Foreign 38,729 41,800 45,832 $ 370,351 $ 402,600 $ 245,206
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]	Income tax provision (benefit) for the years ended December 31 consisted of the following: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Current: United States $ 94,502 $ 67,511 $ 2,207 Foreign 9,270 10,859 12,445 State 13,207 17,939 6,664 Total current income taxes 116,979 96,309 21,316 Deferred: United States $ 15,918 $ 108,514 $ 64,355 Foreign (878 ) (653 ) 58 State 3,008 21,810 7,295 Total deferred income taxes 18,048 129,671 71,708 Total income taxes $ 135,027 $ 225,980 $ 93,024
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	The differences between the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate and our effective tax rate for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Computed tax provision at the applicable federal statutory income tax rate $ 129,623 $ 140,910 $ 86,002 State and local taxes, net of federal income tax benefits 10,542 25,736 8,221 Dividends received deduction and tax exempt interest (444 ) (1,612 ) (592 ) Foreign jurisdiction differences (5,183 ) (4,424 ) (3,685 ) Permanent differences associated with dispositions 2,909 61,892 268 Changes in uncertain tax positions 4,046 4,624 3,710 Other (6,466 ) (1,146 ) (900 ) Provision for income taxes $ 135,027 $ 225,980 $ 93,024 Total effective tax rate 36.5 % 56.1 % 37.9 %
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	The tax effects of temporary differences and carry-forwards that give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31 consisted of the following: 2015 2014 (In thousands) Inventories and cemetery property $ (338,143 ) $ (338,446 ) Property and equipment (168,265 ) (183,332 ) Intangibles (302,217 ) (309,271 ) Other (12,047 ) (6,870 ) Deferred tax liabilities (820,672 ) (837,919 ) Loss and tax credit carry-forwards 171,725 181,092 Deferred revenue on preneed funeral and cemetery contracts 226,483 262,202 Accrued liabilities 102,351 99,908 Deferred tax assets 500,559 543,202 Less: Valuation allowance (126,654 ) (134,201 ) Net deferred income tax liability $ (446,767 ) $ (428,918 )
Schedule of Deferred Taxes Classification [Table Text Block]	Deferred tax assets and Deferred income tax liabilities are recognized in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31 as follows: 2015 2014 (In thousands) Current deferred tax assets $ — $ 1,128 Non-current deferred tax assets 23,817 18,778 Non-current deferred tax liabilities (470,584 ) (448,824 ) Net deferred income tax liability $ (446,767 ) $ (428,918 )
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes the activity related to our gross unrecognized tax benefits from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2015 (in thousands): Federal, State and Foreign Tax (In thousands) Balance at December 31, 2012 $ 184,899 Reductions to tax positions related to the current year 3,019 Additions to tax positions related to the acquisition of Stewart, offset to goodwill 1,556 Reductions to tax positions related to prior years (8,800 ) Statute expirations (2,844 ) Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 177,830 Additions to tax positions related to the current year 8,721 Additions to tax positions related to prior years 10,085 Reductions to tax positions related to the current year (1,075 ) Reductions to tax positions related to prior years (2,325 ) Reductions to tax positions related to the acquisition of Stewart, offset to goodwill (1,556 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 191,680 Additions to tax positions related to the current year 3,235 Reductions to tax positions related to prior years (12,370 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 182,545
Summary of Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table Text Block]	Such loss carry-forwards will expire as follows: State Foreign Total (In thousands) 2016 $ 156,434 $ — $ 156,434 2017 247,348 — 247,348 2018 102,661 — 102,661 2019 137,636 — 137,636 Thereafter 2,587,522 3,824 2,591,346 Total $ 3,231,601 $ 3,824 $ 3,235,425
Summary of Valuation Allowance [Table Text Block]	At December 31, 2015 , our loss and tax credit carry-forward deferred tax assets and related valuation allowances by jurisdiction are as follows (presented net of federal benefit): Federal State Foreign Total (In thousands) Loss and tax credit carry-forwards $ 179 $ 151,463 $ 20,083 $ 171,725 Valuation allowance $ — $ 110,955 $ 15,699 $ 126,654

Debt Level 3 (Tables)

Debt Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]	Debt as of December 31 was as follows: 2015 2014 (In thousands) 6.75% Senior Notes due April 2016 $ — $ 197,377 7.0% Senior Notes due June 2017 295,000 295,000 7.625% Senior Notes due October 2018 250,000 250,000 4.5% Senior Notes due November 2020 200,000 200,000 8.0% Senior Notes due November 2021 150,000 150,000 5.375% Senior Notes due January 2022 425,000 425,000 5.375% Senior Notes due May 2024 850,000 550,000 7.5% Senior Notes due April 2027 200,000 200,000 Term Loan due July 2018 310,000 370,000 Bank Credit Facility due July 2018 270,000 235,000 Obligations under capital leases 204,246 181,002 Mortgage notes and other debt, maturities through 2050 4,037 4,251 Unamortized premiums (discounts) and other, net 8,636 (2,905 ) Total debt 3,166,919 3,054,725 Less: Current maturities of long-term debt (95,181 ) (90,931 ) Total long-term debt $ 3,071,738 $ 2,963,794
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]	The aggregate maturities of our debt for the five years subsequent to December 31, 2015 and thereafter are as follows (in thousands): 2016 $ 95,181 2017 437,575 2018 727,315 2019 16,695 2020 225,364 2021 and thereafter 1,664,789 $ 3,166,919
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block]	Cash interest payments for the three years ended December 31 were as follows (in thousands): Payments in 2015 $ 164,748 Payments in 2014 $ 175,327 Payments in 2013 $ 125,022 Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Net change in capital expenditure accrual $ 5,571 $ 1,022 $ — Options exercised by attestation $ 122 $ 761 $ 3,004 Shares repurchased $ (122 ) $ (761 ) $ (3,004 )
Schedule of future cash interest payments [Table Text Block]	ash interest payments for the five years subsequent to December 31, 2015 and thereafter are as follows (in thousands): Payments in 2016 $ 161,896 Payments in 2017 $ 150,012 Payments in 2018 $ 128,239 Payments in 2019 $ 106,210 Payments in 2020 $ 104,706 Payments in 2021 and thereafter $ 291,116

Credit Risk and Fair Value of38

Credit Risk and Fair Value of Financial Instruments Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Credit Risk and Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract]
Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Table Text Block]	The fair value of our debt instruments at December 31 was as follows: 2015 2014 (In thousands) 6.75% Senior Notes due April 2016 $ — $ 208,075 7.0% Senior Notes due June 2017 314,618 320,043 7.625% Senior Notes due October 2018 279,375 277,538 4.5% Senior Notes due November 2020 201,500 201,700 8.0% Senior Notes due November 2021 176,438 174,375 5.375% Senior Notes due January 2022 445,188 437,750 5.375% Senior Notes due May 2024 884,094 558,250 7.5% Senior Notes due April 2027 216,500 220,890 Term Loan due July 2018 310,000 370,000 Bank Credit Facility due July 2018 270,000 235,000 Mortgage notes and other debt, maturities through 2050 4,047 4,277 Total fair value of debt instruments $ 3,101,760 $ 3,007,898

Commitments and Contingencies39

Commitments and Contingencies Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]	As of December 31, 2015 , future minimum lease payments for non-cancelable operating and capital leases exceeding one year were as follows: Operating Capital (In thousands) 2016 $ 14,496 $ 34,415 2017 12,110 51,756 2018 10,545 46,290 2019 8,641 21,499 2020 7,167 24,010 2021 and thereafter 61,010 26,276 Total $ 113,969 204,246 Less: Interest on capital leases (17,396 ) Total principal payable on capital leases $ 186,850
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table Text Block]	At December 31, 2015 , the maximum estimated future cash commitments under agreements with remaining commitment terms, and with original terms of more than one year, were as follows: Employment and Management Consulting Non-Competition Total (In thousands) 2016 $ 1,427 $ 589 $ 4,751 $ 6,767 2017 988 194 4,352 5,534 2018 508 124 4,166 4,798 2019 301 75 4,022 4,398 2020 22 38 2,904 2,964 2021 and thereafter 8 — 6,060 6,068 Total $ 3,254 $ 1,020 $ 26,255 $ 30,529

Equity Level 3 (Tables)

Equity Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]	Our components of Accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows: Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Unrealized Gains and Losses Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (In thousands) Balance at December 31, 2012 $ 111,717 $ — $ 111,717 Activity in 2013 (23,276 ) — (23,276 ) Reduction in net unrealized gains associated with available-for-sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes — (113,553 ) (113,553 ) Reclassification of net unrealized losses activity attributable to the Deferred preneed receipts held in trust and Care trusts’ corpus, net of taxes — 113,553 113,553 Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 88,441 $ — $ 88,441 Activity in 2014 (32,141 ) — (32,141 ) Reclassification of foreign currency translation adjustments to Net income from discontinued operations 3,114 — 3,114 Increase in net unrealized gains associated with available-for- sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes — (166,570 ) (166,570 ) Reclassification of net unrealized gains activity attributable to the Deferred preneed receipts held in trust and Care trusts’ corpus, net of taxes — 166,570 166,570 Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 59,414 $ — $ 59,414 Activity in 2015 (53,250 ) — (53,250 ) Increase in net unrealized gains associated with available-for-sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes — (85,140 ) (85,140 ) Reclassification of net unrealized gains activity attributable to the Deferred preneed receipts held in trust and Care trusts’ corpus, net of taxes — 85,140 85,140 Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 6,164 $ — $ 6,164

Share-Based Compensation Leve41

Share-Based Compensation Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]	The fair values of our stock options are calculated using the following weighted average assumptions, based on the methods described above for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 : Years Ended December 31, Assumptions 2015 2014 2013 Dividend yield 1.8 % 1.8 % 1.9 % Expected volatility 23.3 % 27.1 % 35.2 % Risk-free interest rate 1.3 % 1.1 % 0.7 % Expected holding period (years) 4.0 4.0 4.0
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes certain information with respect to stock option and restricted share compensation for 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , as included in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for those respective periods: December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Total pretax employee share-based compensation expense included in net income $ 13,843 $ 13,127 $ 11,925 Income tax benefit related to share-based compensation included in net income $ 5,068 $ 7,368 $ 4,689
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]	The following table sets forth stock option activity for the year ended December 31, 2015 : (Shares reported in whole numbers and not in thousands) Options Weighted-Average Exercise Price Outstanding at December 31, 2014 12,107,106 $ 11.63 Granted 2,036,010 $ 23.00 Exercised (3,049,099 ) $ 10.53 Forfeited and other (46,097 ) $ 20.21 Outstanding at December 31, 2015 11,047,920 $ 13.98 Exercisable at December 31, 2015 6,917,973 $ 10.56
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding and Exercisable [Table Text Block]	Set forth below is certain information related to stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2015 : (Shares reported in whole numbers and not in thousands) Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Number Outstanding at December 31, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life Weighted- Average Number Exercisable at December 31, Weighted- Average Range of Exercise Price 2015 (in years) Exercise Price 2015 Exercise Price $0.00 — 5.00 981,087 1.1 $ 4.19 981,087 $ 4.19 $5.01 — 10.00 2,523,076 2.6 $ 8.43 2,523,076 $ 8.43 $10.01 — 15.00 1,579,044 3.9 $ 11.19 1,579,044 $ 11.19 $15.01 — 20.00 3,959,863 5.7 $ 16.48 1,771,466 $ 16.11 $20.01 — 25.00 2,004,850 7.1 $ 23.00 63,300 $ 23.00 $0.00 — 25.00 11,047,920 4.6 $ 13.98 6,917,973 $ 10.56
Other Information Pertaining to Stock Option Activity [Table Text Block]	Other information pertaining to option activity during the years ended December 31 is as follows: 2015 2014 2013 Weighted average grant-date fair value of stock options granted $ 3.79 $ 3.34 $ 3.68 Total fair value of stock options vested (in thousands) $ 7,973 $ 6,814 $ 5,997 Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised (in thousands) $ 52,513 $ 42,048 $ 8,855
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block]	Restricted share activity was as follows: (Shares reported in whole numbers) Restricted Shares Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Nonvested restricted shares at December 31, 2014 1,319,260 $ 13.39 Granted 253,791 $ 23.00 Vested (990,558 ) $ 12.37 Forfeited and other (8,754 ) $ 19.83 Nonvested restricted shares at December 31, 2015 573,739 $ 19.32

Retirement Plans Retirement Pla

Retirement Plans Retirement Plans Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]	The components of the Plans’ net periodic benefit cost for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Interest cost on projected benefit obligation $ 1,198 $ 1,293 $ 780 Recognized net actuarial (gains) losses (1,327 ) 2,401 (1,205 ) Total net periodic benefit cost $ (129 ) $ 3,694 $ (425 )
Schedule of Net Funded Status [Table Text Block]	The Plans’ funded status at December 31 was as follows: 2015 2014 (In thousands) Change in Benefit Obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 36,920 $ 37,499 Acquisition of benefit obligation — — Interest cost 1,198 1,293 Actuarial (loss) gain (1,327 ) 2,401 Benefits paid (4,486 ) (4,273 ) Benefit obligation at end of year $ 32,305 $ 36,920 Change in Plan Assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ — $ — Employer contributions 4,486 4,273 Benefits paid, including expenses (4,486 ) (4,273 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of year $ — $ — Funded status of plan $ (32,305 ) $ (36,920 ) Funding Summary: Projected benefit obligations $ 32,305 $ 36,920 Accumulated benefit obligation $ 32,305 $ 36,920 Amounts Recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ (3,723 ) $ (4,005 ) Accrued pension - included in other liabilities (28,582 ) (32,915 ) Total accrued benefit liability $ (32,305 ) $ (36,920 )
Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]	The Plans’ weighted-average assumptions used to determine the benefit obligation and net benefit cost are as follows: 2015 2014 2013 Weighted average discount rate used to determine obligations 3.86 % 3.42 % 3.66 % Weighted average discount rate used to determine net periodic pension cost 2.47 % 3.69 % 2.90 %
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]	The following benefit payments are expected to be paid in future years related to our Plans (in thousands): 2016 $ 3,723 2017 $ 3,425 2018 $ 3,216 2019 $ 3,146 2020 $ 2,724 Years 2021 through 2025 $ 10,565

Segment Reporting Level 3 (Tabl

Segment Reporting Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]	Our reportable segment information is as follows: Reportable Segments Funeral Cemetery Corporate Consolidated (In thousands) 2015 Revenue from external customers $ 1,888,812 $ 1,097,568 $ — $ 2,986,380 Interest expense $ 4,228 $ 448 $ 168,221 $ 172,897 Depreciation and amortization $ 103,119 $ 29,601 $ 8,736 $ 141,456 Amortization of intangible assets $ 22,767 $ 8,617 $ 75 $ 31,459 Gross profit $ 387,533 $ 284,412 $ — $ 671,945 Amortization of cemetery property $ — $ 62,407 $ — $ 62,407 Capital expenditures $ 53,291 $ 83,573 $ 14,122 $ 150,986 Total assets $ 5,197,037 $ 6,165,047 $ 356,804 $ 11,718,888 2014 Revenue from external customers $ 1,920,475 $ 1,073,536 $ — $ 2,994,011 Interest expense $ 4,714 $ 510 $ 172,347 $ 177,571 Depreciation and amortization $ 101,801 $ 28,745 $ 9,456 $ 140,002 Amortization of intangible assets $ 24,841 $ 11,700 $ 99 $ 36,640 Gross profit $ 409,701 $ 265,984 $ — $ 675,685 Amortization of cemetery property $ — $ 60,439 $ — $ 60,439 Capital expenditures $ 52,610 $ 78,588 $ 13,301 $ 144,499 Total assets $ 5,305,294 $ 6,152,113 $ 466,237 $ 11,923,644 2013 Revenue from external customers $ 1,698,493 $ 851,973 $ — $ 2,550,466 Interest expense $ 4,736 $ 348 $ 137,276 $ 142,360 Depreciation and amortization $ 92,588 $ 23,384 $ 6,263 $ 122,235 Amortization of intangible assets $ 17,245 $ 4,590 $ 24 $ 21,859 Gross profit $ 349,791 $ 199,256 $ — $ 549,047 Amortization of cemetery property $ — $ 48,344 $ — $ 48,344 Capital expenditures $ 50,304 $ 58,315 $ 4,320 $ 112,939
Schedule of Significant Reportable Items from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]	The following table reconciles gross profits from reportable segments shown above to our consolidated income from continuing operations before income taxes: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Gross profit from reportable segments $ 671,945 $ 675,685 $ 549,047 General and administrative expenses (128,188 ) (184,749 ) (155,128 ) Gains (losses) on divestitures and impairment charges, net 6,522 116,613 (6,263 ) Operating income 550,279 607,549 387,656 Interest expense (172,897 ) (177,571 ) (142,360 ) (Losses) gains on early extinguishment of debt, net (6,918 ) (29,158 ) 468 Other (expense) income, net (113 ) 1,780 (558 ) Income from continuing operations before income taxes $ 370,351 $ 402,600 $ 245,206
Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries by Country [Table Text Block]	Our geographic area information was as follows: United States Canada Total (In thousands) 2015 Revenue from external customers $ 2,805,748 $ 180,632 $ 2,986,380 Interest expense $ 172,697 $ 200 $ 172,897 Depreciation and amortization $ 132,393 $ 9,063 $ 141,456 Amortization of intangible assets $ 30,856 $ 603 $ 31,459 Amortization of cemetery property $ 58,429 $ 3,978 $ 62,407 Operating income $ 498,615 $ 51,664 $ 550,279 Gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net $ 1,778 $ 4,744 $ 6,522 Long-lived assets $ 5,759,342 $ 253,246 $ 6,012,588 2014 Revenue from external customers $ 2,792,009 $ 202,002 $ 2,994,011 Interest expense $ 177,245 $ 326 $ 177,571 Depreciation and amortization $ 129,510 $ 10,492 $ 140,002 Amortization of intangible assets $ 35,895 $ 745 $ 36,640 Amortization of cemetery property $ 55,679 $ 4,760 $ 60,439 Operating income $ 557,608 $ 49,941 $ 607,549 Gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net $ 116,046 $ 567 $ 116,613 Long-lived assets $ 5,735,205 $ 300,515 $ 6,035,720 2013 Revenue from external customers $ 2,334,667 $ 215,799 $ 2,550,466 Interest expense $ 141,991 $ 369 $ 142,360 Depreciation and amortization $ 111,210 $ 11,025 $ 122,235 Amortization of intangible assets $ 20,846 $ 1,013 $ 21,859 Amortization of cemetery property $ 42,972 $ 5,372 $ 48,344 Operating income $ 331,143 $ 56,513 $ 387,656 Losses on divestitures and impairment charges, net $ (5,958 ) $ (305 ) $ (6,263 )

Supplementary Information Lev44

Supplementary Information Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Supplementary Information [Abstract]
Schedule of Balance Sheet, Supplemental Disclosures	The detail of certain balance sheet accounts is as follows: December 31, 2015 2014 (In thousands) Cash and cash equivalents: Cash $ 106,831 $ 132,743 Commercial paper and temporary investments 27,768 44,592 $ 134,599 $ 177,335 Receivables, net: Notes receivable $ 2,056 $ 8,381 Atneed funeral receivables, net of allowances of $3,343 and $6,200, respectively 52,184 61,306 Atneed cemetery receivables, net of allowances of $2,153 and $2,346, respectively 13,585 14,842 Other 22,637 24,521 $ 90,462 $ 109,050 Other current assets: Income tax receivable $ 15,662 $ 22,581 Prepaid insurance 5,398 5,270 Restricted cash 12,587 28,926 Deferred debt issuance costs 9,522 9,180 Other 12,344 14,817 $ 55,513 $ 80,774 Cemetery property: Undeveloped land $ 1,186,861 $ 1,186,325 Developed lots, lawn crypts, mausoleum spaces, cremation niches, and cremation memorialization property 566,154 552,891 $ 1,753,015 $ 1,739,216 Property and equipment: Land $ 591,407 $ 603,509 Buildings and improvements 1,834,403 1,783,171 Operating equipment 530,195 500,511 Leasehold improvements 52,121 50,862 Capital leases 220,784 204,991 3,228,910 3,143,044 Less: Accumulated depreciation (1,253,872 ) (1,163,921 ) Less: Accumulated amortization of capital leases (128,316 ) (117,720 ) $ 1,846,722 $ 1,861,403 Deferred charges and other assets: Intangible assets, net $ 370,005 $ 393,781 Restricted cash 3,907 16,073 Deferred tax assets 23,817 18,778 Notes receivable, net of allowances of $11,334 and $11,259, respectively 10,229 4,858 Cash surrender value of insurance policies 108,726 102,856 Other 99,827 87,902 $ 616,511 $ 624,248 December 31, 2015 2014 (In thousands) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities: Accounts payable $ 140,045 $ 137,270 Accrued benefits 86,908 86,880 Accrued interest 28,673 30,133 Accrued property taxes 11,594 14,346 Self insurance reserves 76,611 73,991 Bank overdraft 21,808 27,798 Other accrued liabilities 57,203 82,624 $ 422,842 $ 453,042 Other liabilities: Accrued pension $ 28,582 $ 32,915 Deferred compensation 92,199 83,278 Customer refund obligation reserve 55,153 60,019 Tax liability 234,176 239,265 Indemnification liability — 236 Payable to perpetual care fund 71,133 64,722 Other 15,678 22,118 $ 496,921 $ 502,553
Schedule of Product Information [Table Text Block]	The detail of certain income statement accounts is as follows for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Merchandise revenue: Funeral $ 603,405 $ 616,992 $ 584,429 Cemetery 849,251 816,980 653,211 Total merchandise revenue 1,452,656 1,433,972 1,237,640 Services revenue: Funeral 1,134,807 1,167,385 989,624 Cemetery 217,447 222,834 168,864 Total services revenue 1,352,254 1,390,219 1,158,488 Other revenue 181,470 169,820 154,338 Total revenue $ 2,986,380 $ 2,994,011 $ 2,550,466 Merchandise costs and expenses: Funeral $ 285,432 $ 292,031 $ 266,558 Cemetery 487,877 485,291 380,323 Total cost of merchandise 773,309 777,322 646,881 Services costs and expenses: Funeral 629,842 630,357 548,534 Cemetery 65,839 70,439 51,562 Total cost of services 695,681 700,796 600,096 Overhead and other expenses 845,445 840,208 754,442 Total cost and expenses $ 2,314,435 $ 2,318,326 $ 2,001,419
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block]	Cash interest payments for the three years ended December 31 were as follows (in thousands): Payments in 2015 $ 164,748 Payments in 2014 $ 175,327 Payments in 2013 $ 125,022 Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Net change in capital expenditure accrual $ 5,571 $ 1,022 $ — Options exercised by attestation $ 122 $ 761 $ 3,004 Shares repurchased $ (122 ) $ (761 ) $ (3,004 )

Earnings Per Share Level 3 (Tab

Earnings Per Share Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of basic and diluted EPS for the three years ended December 31 is presented below: 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands, except per share amounts) Amounts attributable to common stockholders: Income from continuing operations — basic $ 234,162 $ 170,283 $ 146,926 After tax interest on convertible debt 50 51 51 Income from continuing operations — diluted $ 234,212 $ 170,334 $ 146,977 (Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax $ (390 ) $ 2,186 $ 406 Net income — basic $ 233,772 $ 172,469 $ 147,332 After tax interest on convertible debt 50 51 51 Net income — diluted $ 233,822 $ 172,520 $ 147,383 Weighted average shares: Weighted average shares — basic 200,356 210,741 211,811 Stock options 3,973 3,338 4,082 Convertible debt 121 121 121 Weighted average shares — diluted 204,450 214,200 216,014 Amounts attributable to common stockholders: Income from continuing operations per share: Basic $ 1.17 $ 0.81 $ 0.70 Diluted $ 1.14 $ 0.80 $ 0.68 Income from discontinued operations per share: Basic $ — $ 0.01 $ — Diluted $ — $ 0.01 $ — Net income per share: Basic $ 1.17 $ 0.82 $ 0.70 Diluted $ 1.14 $ 0.81 $ 0.68

Acquisition Level 3 (Tables)

Acquisition Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]	The following unaudited pro forma summary presents financial information as if the acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2013 (in thousands): Revenue $ 2,919,278 Net income $ 203,916

Divestiture Related Activities

Divestiture Related Activities Divestiture Related Activities Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Divestiture-Related Activities [Abstract]
Gains (Losses) on Divestitures and Impairment Charges [Table Text Block]	As divestitures occur in the normal course of business, gains or losses on the sale of such locations are recognized in the income statement line item Gains (losses) on divestitures and impairment charges, net, which consist of the following for the years ended December 31 : 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Gains (losses) on divestitures, net $ 13,363 $ 122,535 $ (3,350 ) Impairment losses (6,841 ) (5,922 ) (2,913 ) $ 6,522 $ 116,613 $ (6,263 )
Schedule of Income from Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block]	Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Revenue $ — $ 1,613 $ 5,907 Costs and expenses — (1,471 ) (5,393 ) (Loss) gain on disposition (390 ) 2,136 — Other expense, net — (2 ) (1 ) (Loss) income from discontinued operations before income taxes (390 ) 2,276 513 Provision for income taxes — (90 ) (107 ) Net (loss) income from discontinued operations $ (390 ) $ 2,186 $ 406

Quarterly Financial Data Quarte

Quarterly Financial Data Quarterly Financial Data Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]	Quarterly financial data for 2015 and 2014 is as follows: First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2015 Revenue $ 748,117 $ 754,354 $ 714,526 $ 769,383 Costs and expenses $ (570,674 ) $ (588,096 ) $ (573,723 ) $ (581,942 ) Gross profit $ 177,443 $ 166,258 $ 140,803 $ 187,441 Operating income $ 141,115 $ 127,581 $ 124,548 $ 157,035 Income from continuing operations before income taxes (1) $ 98,118 $ 84,489 $ 74,045 $ 113,699 Provision for income taxes $ (36,653 ) $ (31,007 ) $ (26,118 ) $ (41,249 ) Net income from continuing operations $ 61,465 $ 53,482 $ 47,927 $ 72,450 Net loss from discontinued operations, net of tax $ — $ (390 ) $ — $ — Net income $ 61,465 $ 53,092 $ 47,927 $ 72,450 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests $ (90 ) $ (497 ) $ (479 ) $ (96 ) Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 61,375 $ 52,595 $ 47,448 $ 72,354 Net income attributable to common stockholders per share (2) : Basic — EPS $ 0.30 $ 0.26 $ 0.24 $ 0.37 Diluted — EPS $ 0.30 $ 0.25 $ 0.23 $ 0.36 2014 Revenue $ 745,493 $ 746,760 $ 718,314 $ 783,444 Costs and expenses $ (579,435 ) $ (590,719 ) $ (570,030 ) $ (578,142 ) Gross profit $ 166,058 $ 156,041 $ 148,284 $ 205,302 Operating income $ 107,419 $ 144,730 $ 135,119 $ 220,281 Income from continuing operations before income taxes (1) $ 63,958 $ 69,316 $ 91,735 $ 177,591 Provision for income taxes $ (22,707 ) $ (37,357 ) $ (74,934 ) $ (90,982 ) Net income from continuing operations $ 41,251 $ 31,959 $ 16,801 $ 86,609 Net income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax 140 (178 ) 884 1,340 Net income $ 41,391 $ 31,781 $ 17,685 $ 87,949 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests $ (289 ) $ (5,859 ) $ (34 ) $ (155 ) Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 41,102 $ 25,922 $ 17,651 $ 87,794 Net income attributable to common stockholders per share (2) : Basic — EPS $ 0.19 $ 0.12 $ 0.08 $ 0.42 Diluted — EPS $ 0.19 $ 0.12 $ 0.08 $ 0.42 (1) Includes (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net , as described in Note 19. (2) Net income per share is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of the quarters’ net income per share may not equal the total computed for the year.

Summary of Significant Accoun49

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Textuals (Details) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Intangible Fair Value Inputs, Royalty Savings Rate, Low	0.010
Required percentage of sales price	10.00%
Amortization of cemetery property	$ 62,407	$ 60,439	$ 48,344
Depreciation	$ 141,456	$ 140,002	$ 122,235
Goodwill Reporting Unit Fair Value Inputs, Growth Rate, Low End of the Range	1.70%
Goodwill Reporting Unit Fair Value Inputs, Growth Rate, High End of the Range	7.00%
Goodwill Reporting Unit Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	6.50%
Intangible Fair Value Inputs, Royalty Savings Rate	0.040
Intangibles Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	6.70%
Retirement of treasury shares	0	0	0
Deferred Finance Costs, Current, Net	$ 9,522	$ 9,180
Deferred Finance Costs, Noncurrent, Net	35,900	39,700
Funeral [Member]
Amortization of cemetery property	0	0	$ 0
Depreciation	$ 103,119	101,801	92,588
Goodwill Reporting Unit Fair Value Inputs, Terminal Growth Rate	2.50%
Intangibles Fair Value Inputs, Terminal Growth Rate	2.50%
Cemetery [Member]
Amortization of cemetery property	$ 62,407	60,439	48,344
Depreciation	$ 29,601	$ 28,745	$ 23,384
Goodwill Reporting Unit Fair Value Inputs, Terminal Growth Rate	2.90%
Intangibles Fair Value Inputs, Terminal Growth Rate	2.90%
Treasury Stock [Member]
Retirement of treasury shares	7,969	10,956	278
Minimum [Member]
Funeral home lease life	1 year
Transportation equipment lease life	1 year
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life	2 years
Minimum [Member] | Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Estimated Useful Lives	P7Y
Minimum [Member] | Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Estimated Useful Lives	P3Y
Maximum [Member]
Funeral home lease life	40 years
Transportation equipment lease life	5 years
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life	40 years
Maximum [Member] | Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Estimated Useful Lives	P40Y
Maximum [Member] | Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Estimated Useful Lives	P8Y
Maximum [Member] | Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Estimated Useful Lives	P10Y
Noncompete Agreements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life	2 years
Noncompete Agreements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life	20 years
Treasury Stock [Member]
Retirement of treasury shares	7,968

Preneed Funeral Activities Inve

Preneed Funeral Activities Investment Related Activities (Details) - Funeral [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Investment related activities [Line Items]
Deposits to trust	$ 121,109	$ 102,553		$ 82,168
Withdrawals	160,135	131,352		125,914
Purchases of available-for-sale securities	453,092	1,238,257	[1]	393,169
Sales of available-for-sale securities	458,236	1,318,512	[1]	435,267
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	42,034	168,567	[1]	65,011
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	$ (31,403)	$ (113,748)	[1]	$ (9,732)
[1]	(1)The increase in activity in 2014 is the result of changing the legal structure of the trust investments.

Preneed Funeral Activities Long

Preneed Funeral Activities Long-term Receivable and Investment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Long-term receivable and investment components [Line Items]
Insurance-backed fixed income securities	$ 108,726	$ 102,856
Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments	1,760,297	1,843,023
Funeral [Member]
Long-term receivable and investment components [Line Items]
Trust investments, at market	1,109,394	1,205,747
Cash and cash equivalents	134,642	162,229
Current assets of discontinued operations	(39)	0
Insurance-backed fixed income securities	271,116	260,899
Trust investments	1,515,113	1,628,875
Receivables from customers	290,689	262,700
Unearned finance charge	(11,235)	(11,054)
Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments, excluding allowance for cancellation	1,794,567	1,880,521
Allowance for cancellation	(34,270)	(37,498)
Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments	$ 1,760,297	$ 1,843,023	$ 1,870,243	$ 1,536,257

Preneed Funeral Activities Pren

Preneed Funeral Activities Preneed Funeral Activities Receivables Net and Trust Invesments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Beginning balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments		$ 1,843,023
Ending balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments		1,760,297	$ 1,843,023
Funeral [Member]
Beginning balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments		1,843,023	1,870,243	$ 1,536,257
Net preneed contract sales		283,927	247,994	192,712
Cash receipts from customers, net of refunds		(234,413)	(211,830)	(170,921)
Deposits to trust		121,109	102,553	82,168
Acquisitions (dispositions) of businesses, net		1,400	(19,203)	271,395
Net undistributed investments (losses) earnings	[1]	(38,510)	22,480	125,986
Maturities and distributed earnings		(200,635)	(162,059)	(153,446)
Change in cancellation allowance		2,787	7,644	(3,245)
Effect of foreign currency and other		(18,391)	(14,799)	(10,663)
Ending balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments		$ 1,760,297	$ 1,843,023	$ 1,870,243
[1]	Includes both realized and unrealized investment earnings.

Preneed Funeral Activities Sche

Preneed Funeral Activities Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities (Details) - Funeral [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	$ 1,156,570	$ 1,213,128
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	43,383	33,058
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(90,559)	(40,439)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	1,109,394	1,205,747
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	82,417	85,775
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	107	468
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(1,331)	(455)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	81,193	85,788
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	72,488	90,430
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	532	449
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(655)	(874)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	72,365	90,005
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	19,036	24,765
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	235	423
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(284)	(126)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	18,987	25,062
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	1,297	1,325
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	29	29
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(22)	(12)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	1,304	1,342
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	5	6
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	5	6
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Preferred Stock securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	1,949	2,503
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	41	113
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(158)	(113)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	1,832	2,503
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Commingled Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	69,148
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(442)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	68,706
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | US Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	344,116	377,441
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	30,885	18,533
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(19,149)	(7,405)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	355,852	388,569
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Canada Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	11,930	14,708
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	2,652	4,292
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(1,077)	(895)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	13,505	18,105
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Other International Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	32,156	38,035
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	2,636	1,175
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(3,907)	(1,560)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	30,885	37,650
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	323,884	308,548
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	1,263	3,332
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(43,975)	(15,901)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	281,172	295,979
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	155,717	229,414
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	154	869
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(13,092)	(3,576)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	142,779	226,707
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Private Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	38,201	35,094
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	3,703	2,649
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(6,467)	(9,418)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	35,437	28,325
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Other Investments [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	4,226	5,084
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	1,146	726
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	(104)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	$ 5,372	$ 5,706

Preneed Funeral Activities Le54

Preneed Funeral Activities Level 3 Activities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Private Equity Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair market value, beginning balance		$ 29,344	$ 26,844
Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income(1)	[1]		3,313
Net realized losses included in Other income, net(2)	[2]		(43)
Contributions			6,582
Distributions and other			(7,352)
Fair market value, ending balance			29,344	$ 26,844
Private Equity Funds [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair market value, beginning balance		28,325	26,885	17,879
Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income(1)	[3]	6,449	2,242	13,429
Net realized losses included in Other income, net(2)	[4]	(44)	(39)	(43)
Purchases		0	0	1,188
Sales		(36)	0	0
Contributions		7,464	6,122	3,229
Distributions and other		(6,721)	(6,885)	(9,245)
Investments with significant unobservable inputs acquired		0	0	448
Fair market value, ending balance		35,437	28,325	26,885
Other Investments [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair market value, beginning balance		5,706	1,808	744
Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income(1)	[3]	214	826	1,442
Net realized losses included in Other income, net(2)	[4]	(15)	(6)	(3)
Purchases		32	3,214	0
Sales		0	0	0
Contributions		1,297	4	0
Distributions and other		(1,862)	(140)	(393)
Investments with significant unobservable inputs acquired		0	0	18
Fair market value, ending balance		$ 5,372	$ 5,706	$ 1,808
[1]	All unrealized gains recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income for our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Accumulated other comprehensive income to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust. See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust.
[2]	All losses recognized in Other income (expense), net for our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Other income (expense), net to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust. See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust.
[3]	All unrealized gains recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income for our funeral merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Accumulated other comprehensive income to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust. See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust.
[4]	All losses recognized in Other income (expense), net for our funeral merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Other income (expense), net to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust. See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust.

Preneed Funeral Activities In55

Preneed Funeral Activities Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date (Details) - Funeral [Member] $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]
Due in one year or less	$ 107,784
Due in one to five years	25,635
Due in five to ten years	26,390
Thereafter	14,045
Total	$ 173,854

Preneed Funeral Activities Sc56

Preneed Funeral Activities Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	$ 548,240	$ 534,435
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(48,832)	(26,801)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	167,817	73,436
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(41,727)	(13,638)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	716,057	607,871
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(90,559)	(40,439)
US Treasury Securities [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	37,008	32,243
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(1,273)	(412)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	4,687	4,978
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(58)	(43)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	41,695	37,221
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(1,331)	(455)
Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	2,336	2,894
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(17)	(52)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	11,535	14,904
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(638)	(822)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	13,871	17,798
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(655)	(874)
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	4,644	4,988
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(156)	(56)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	4,025	2,420
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(128)	(70)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	8,669	7,408
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(284)	(126)
Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	377	217
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(6)	(10)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	133	106
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(16)	(2)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	510	323
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(22)	(12)
Preferred Stock securities [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	448	26
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(60)	(113)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	42	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(98)	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	490	26
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(158)	(113)
US Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		192,015
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(11,706)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		585
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		192,600
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(11,706)
US Common Stock Securities [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	128,725	126,527
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(16,448)	(7,403)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	14,531	438
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(2,701)	(2)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	143,256	126,965
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(19,149)	(7,405)
Canada Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		2,069
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(319)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		778
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(522)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		2,847
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(841)
Canada Common Stock Securities [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	1,956	1,752
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(355)	(379)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	1,097	1,085
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(722)	(516)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	3,053	2,837
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(1,077)	(895)
Other International Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		28,308
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(2,395)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		28,308
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(2,395)
Other International Common Stock Securities [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	9,458	19,593
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(1,638)	(1,557)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	6,151	2
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(2,269)	(3)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	15,609	19,595
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(3,907)	(1,560)
Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		303,211
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(18,329)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		1,577
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(101)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		304,788
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(18,430)
Equity Funds [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	185,726	233,827
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(23,385)	(13,219)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	79,855	23,717
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(20,590)	(2,682)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	265,581	257,544
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(43,975)	(15,901)
Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		159,572
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(4,106)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		15,113
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(596)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		174,685
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(4,702)
Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	108,984	112,160
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(5,052)	(3,128)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	27,048	11,452
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(8,040)	(448)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	136,032	123,612
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(13,092)	(3,576)
Commingled Funds [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	68,578
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(442)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	68,578
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(442)
Private Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		88
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(100)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		7,518
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(6,083)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		7,606
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(6,183)
Private Equity Funds [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	0	203
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	0	(461)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	18,713	13,870
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(6,467)	(8,957)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	18,713	14,073
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	$ (6,467)	(9,418)
Other Investments [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		5
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(11)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		464
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(93)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		469
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		$ (104)

Preneed Funeral Activities Pr57

Preneed Funeral Activities Preneed Funeral Activities Deferred Preneed Funeral Revenues (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Deferred Preneed Revenues [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenues, net		$ 540,164
Ending balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenues, net		557,897	$ 540,164
Funeral [Member]
Deferred Preneed Revenues [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenues, net		540,164	551,948	$ 535,136
Net preneed contract sales		232,628	198,195	144,202
Acquisitions (dispositions) of businesses, net		(2,895)	(21,639)	298,047
Net investment (losses) earnings	[1]	(37,208)	24,256	126,428
Recognized deferred preneed revenues		(276,359)	(258,534)	(200,680)
Change in cancellation allowance		11,675	21,272	(5,670)
Change in deferred preneed funeral receipts held in trust		90,351	26,131	(343,878)
Effect of foreign currency and other		(459)	(1,465)	(1,637)
Ending balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenues, net		$ 557,897	$ 540,164	$ 551,948
[1]	Includes both realized and unrealized investment earnings.

Preneed Funeral Activities Pr58

Preneed Funeral Activities Preneed Funeral Activities, Textuals (Details) - Funeral [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share, Unfunded Commitments	$ 41,900
Underlying assets liquidation range, minimum	2 years
Underlying assets liquidation range, maximum	10 years
Available-for-sale securities, estimated maturity date, minimum	2,016
Available-for-sale securities, estimated maturity date, maximum	2,045
Investment Earnings, Net	$ 52,900	$ 62,800	$ 48,500
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net	3,519	41,846	829
Insurance Commissions and Fees	$ 137,000	$ 123,000	$ 106,500

Preneed Cemetery Activities Inv

Preneed Cemetery Activities Investment Related Activities (Details) - Cemetery [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Investment related activities [Line Items]
Deposits to trust	$ 153,252	$ 129,581	$ 106,185
Withdrawals	163,732	150,064	119,576
Purchases of available-for-sale securities	625,648	1,786,800	477,772
Sales of available-for-sale securities	628,484	1,842,417	498,852
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	51,510	271,507	101,337
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	$ (40,092)	$ (138,473)	$ (14,593)

Preneed Cemetery Activities Lon

Preneed Cemetery Activities Long-term Receivable and Investment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Long-term receivable and investment components [Line Items]
Insurance-backed fixed income securities	$ 108,726	$ 102,856
Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments	1,760,297	1,843,023
Cemetery [Member]
Long-term receivable and investment components [Line Items]
Trust investments, at market	1,343,916	1,404,298
Cash and cash equivalents	118,583	122,355
Trust investments	1,462,499	1,526,653
Receivables from customers	958,503	881,082
Unearned finance charge	(31,332)	(31,524)
Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments, excluding allowance for cancellation	2,389,670	2,376,211
Allowance for cancellation	(71,503)	(69,542)
Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments	$ 2,318,167	$ 2,306,669

Preneed Cemetery Activities Pre

Preneed Cemetery Activities Preneed Cemetary Activities Receivables Net and Trust Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments		$ 2,306,669
Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments		2,318,167	$ 2,306,669
Cemetery [Member]
Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments		2,306,669	2,292,348	$ 1,826,835
Net preneed contract sales		799,497	688,336	562,433
Dispositions (acquisitions) of businesses, net		4,404	(10,898)	190,870
Net undistributed investments (losses) earnings	[1]	(42,189)	(18,038)	203,499
Cash receipts from customers, net of refunds		(716,686)	(615,489)	(471,710)
Deposits to trust		153,252	129,581	106,185
Maturities, deliveries, and associated earnings		(163,732)	(150,064)	(119,576)
Change in cancellation allowance		(2,046)	843	3,002
Effect of foreign currency and other		(21,002)	(9,950)	(9,190)
Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments		$ 2,318,167	$ 2,306,669	$ 2,292,348
[1]	Includes both realized and unrealized investment (losses) earnings

Preneed Cemetery Activities Sch

Preneed Cemetery Activities Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities (Details) - Cemetery [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	$ 1,397,324	$ 1,411,166
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	60,286	38,316
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(113,694)	(45,184)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	1,343,916	1,404,298
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	69,746	63,447
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	25	257
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(1,437)	(605)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	68,334	63,099
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	24,648	21,687
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	183	261
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(169)	(134)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	24,662	21,814
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	5,112	8,725
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	26	122
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(118)	(116)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	5,020	8,731
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	129	111
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	3	3
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(3)	(1)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	129	113
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	170	170
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	15	16
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	185	186
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Preferred Stock securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis		10
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains		1
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value		11
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Commingled Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	108,883
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(570)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	108,313
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | US Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	532,026	557,955
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	44,181	22,746
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(32,037)	(11,706)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	544,170	568,995
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Canada Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	8,984	10,962
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	3,858	5,011
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(891)	(841)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	11,951	15,132
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Other International Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	50,053	55,632
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	4,207	1,605
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(5,799)	(2,395)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	48,461	54,842
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	356,798	344,443
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	1,620	4,244
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(49,642)	(18,430)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	308,776	330,257
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	203,983	314,600
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	92	679
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(18,526)	(4,702)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	185,549	310,577
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Private Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	34,810	32,342
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	5,803	3,185
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(4,502)	(6,183)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	36,111	29,344
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Other Investments [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	1,982	1,082
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	273	186
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	(71)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	$ 2,255	$ 1,197

Preneed Cemetery Activities L63

Preneed Cemetery Activities Level 3 Activities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Other Investments [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair market value, beginning balance		$ 1,197	$ 1,245	$ 450
Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income(1)	[1]	228	(73)	1,218
Net realized losses included in Other income, net(2)	[2]	(15)	(7)	(5)
Payments to Acquire Other Investments		1,328	196	0
Contributions		1,390	4	0
Distributions and other		(1,873)	(168)	(418)
Fair market value, ending balance		2,255	1,197	1,245
Private Equity Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair market value, beginning balance		29,344	26,844
Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income(1)	[1]		3,313
Net realized losses included in Other income, net(2)	[2]		(43)
Contributions			6,582
Distributions and other			(7,352)
Fair market value, ending balance			29,344	26,844
Private Equity Funds [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair market value, beginning balance		29,344	26,844	17,687
Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income(1)	[1]	5,723		15,420
Net realized losses included in Other income, net(2)	[2]	(45)		(48)
Payments to Acquire Other Investments		0	0	0
Contributions		7,935		3,430
Distributions and other		(6,846)		(9,645)
Fair market value, ending balance		$ 36,111	$ 29,344	$ 26,844
[1]	All unrealized gains recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income for our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Accumulated other comprehensive income to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust. See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust.
[2]	All losses recognized in Other income (expense), net for our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Other income (expense), net to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust. See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust.

Preneed Cemetery Activities I64

Preneed Cemetery Activities Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date (Details) - Cemetery [Member] $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]
Due in one year or less	$ 26,698
Due in one to five years	25,843
Due in five to ten years	27,094
Thereafter	18,695
Total	$ 98,330

Preneed Cemetery Activities S65

Preneed Cemetery Activities Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	$ 740,693	$ 732,387
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(62,997)	(37,625)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	176,220	32,624
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(50,697)	(7,559)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	916,913	765,011
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	113,694	45,184
US Treasury Securities [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	52,533	45,072
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(1,435)	(605)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	21	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(2)	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	52,554	45,072
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	1,437	605
Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	16,039	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(105)	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	841	4,858
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(64)	(134)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	16,880	4,858
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	169	134
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	1,754	2,017
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(22)	(61)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	2,347	1,936
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(96)	(55)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	4,101	3,953
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	118	116
Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	42	33
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(1)	(1)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	18	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(2)	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	60	33
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	3	1
US Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		192,015
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(11,706)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		585
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		192,600
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss		11,706
US Common Stock Securities [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	198,843
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(26,038)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	21,355
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(5,999)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	220,198
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	32,037
Canada Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		2,069
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(319)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		778
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(522)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		2,847
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss		841
Canada Common Stock Securities [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	470
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(6)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	1,430
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(885)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	1,900
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	891
Other International Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		28,308
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(2,395)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		28,308
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss		2,395
Other International Common Stock Securities [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	15,567
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(2,507)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	9,412
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(3,292)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	24,979
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	5,799
Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		303,211
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(18,329)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		1,577
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(101)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		304,788
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss		18,430
Equity Funds [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	207,349
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(25,991)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	86,720
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(23,651)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	294,069
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	49,642
Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		159,572
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(4,106)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		15,113
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(596)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		174,685
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss		4,702
Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	139,749
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(6,322)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	44,550
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(12,204)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	184,299
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	18,526
Commingled Funds [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	108,347
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(570)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	108,347
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	570
Private Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		88
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(100)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		7,518
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(6,083)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		7,606
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss		6,183
Private Equity Funds [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	9,526
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(4,502)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	9,526
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	$ 4,502
Other Investments [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		2
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(3)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		259
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(68)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		261
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss		$ 71

Preneed Cemetery Activities Def

Preneed Cemetery Activities Deferred Preneed Cemetery Revenues (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Beginning balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenues		$ 1,062,381
Ending balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenues		1,120,001	$ 1,062,381
Cemetery [Member]
Beginning balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenues		1,062,381	1,016,275	$ 861,148
Net preneed and atneed deferred sales		561,899	531,768	396,264
(Dispositions) acquisitions of businesses, net		2,357	(25,071)	212,624
Net investment (losses) earnings	[1]	(42,806)	(22,378)	201,941
Recognized deferred preneed revenues		(504,064)	(493,739)	(386,632)
Change in cancellation allowance		(8,048)	3,833	18,358
Change in deferred preneed cemetary receipts held in trust		52,050	55,636	(298,337)
Effect of foreign currency and other		(3,768)	(3,943)	10,909
Ending balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenues		$ 1,120,001	$ 1,062,381	$ 1,016,275
[1]	Includes both realized and unrealized investment (losses) earnings.

Preneed Cemetery Activities P67

Preneed Cemetery Activities Preneed Cemetery Activities, Textuals (Details) - Cemetery [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share, Unfunded Commitments	$ 43,600
Underlying assets liquidation range, minimum	2 years
Underlying assets liquidation range, maximum	10 years
Available-for-sale securities, estimated maturity date, minimum	2,016
Available-for-sale securities, estimated maturity date, maximum	2,045
Investment Earnings, Net	$ 45,500	$ 48,200	$ 39,000
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net	$ 4,345	$ 60,040	$ 1,575

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust68

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Investment Related Activities (Details) - Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Investment related activities [Line Items]
Deposits to trust	$ 38,883	$ 42,220		$ 26,501
Withdrawals	40,447	46,981		33,557
Purchases of available-for-sale securities	247,658	1,306,314	[1]	139,439
Sales of available-for-sale securities	175,057	1,396,669	[1]	99,701
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	6,933	134,259	[1]	17,916
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	$ (7,708)	$ (51,093)	[1]	$ (2,738)
[1]	(1)The increase in activity in 2014 is the result of changing the legal structure of the trust investments.

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust69

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Long-term Receivable and Investment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Long-term receivable and investment components [Line Items]
Cemetery perpetual care trust investments	$ 1,319,427	$ 1,341,376
Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Long-term receivable and investment components [Line Items]
Trust investments, at market	1,232,592	1,192,966
Cash and cash equivalents	86,835	148,410
Cemetery perpetual care trust investments	$ 1,319,427	$ 1,341,376

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust70

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities (Details) - Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	$ 1,295,785	$ 1,207,563
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	25,390	19,424
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(88,583)	(34,021)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	1,232,592	1,192,966
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	3,636	794
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	20	40
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(81)	(4)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	3,575	830
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	32,477	31,993
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	321	442
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(266)	(233)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	32,532	32,202
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	12,694	16,762
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	149	344
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(284)	(210)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	12,559	16,896
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	934	910
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	13	15
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(9)	(6)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	938	919
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	660	661
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	5	10
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(31)	(4)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	634	667
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Preferred Stock securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	5,850	4,439
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	55	60
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(159)	(12)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	5,746	4,487
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | US Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	231,012	225,129
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	15,224	9,340
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(10,898)	(4,881)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	235,338	229,588
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Canada Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	5,648	7,419
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	2,112	2,737
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(606)	(596)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	7,154	9,560
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Other International Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	14,820	8,102
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	160	90
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(2,390)	(399)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	12,590	7,793
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	21,783	17,310
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	3,138	3,264
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(1,850)	(93)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	23,071	20,481
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	890,013	846,230
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	530	1,580
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(63,913)	(14,263)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	826,630	833,547
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Private Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	62,549	34,288
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	1,942	408
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(8,096)	(10,788)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	56,395	23,908
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Other Investments [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	13,709	13,526
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	1,721	1,094
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	(2,532)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	$ 15,430	$ 12,088

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust71

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Level 3 Activities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Private Equity Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair market value, beginning balance		$ 29,344	$ 26,844
Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income(1)	[1]		3,313
Net realized losses included in Other income, net(2)	[2]		(43)
Contributions			6,582
Distributions and other			(7,352)
Fair market value, ending balance			29,344	$ 26,844
Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member] | Private Equity Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair market value, beginning balance		23,908	19,779	11,122
Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income(1)	[3]	10,793	1,216	6,897
Net realized losses included in Other income, net(2)	[4]	(20)	(70)	(142)
Sales		0	0	0
Contributions		25,836	10,461	3,706
Distributions and other		(4,122)	(7,478)	(1,841)
Investments with significant unobservable inputs acquired		0	0	37
Fair market value, ending balance		56,395	23,908	19,779
Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member] | Other Investments [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair market value, beginning balance		12,088	11,590	7,659
Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income(1)	[3]	(828)	2,145	4,081
Net realized losses included in Other income, net(2)	[4]	(24)	(44)	(76)
Sales		0	(17)	0
Contributions		5,829	0	0
Distributions and other		(1,635)	(1,586)	(508)
Investments with significant unobservable inputs acquired		0	0	434
Fair market value, ending balance		$ 15,430	$ 12,088	$ 11,590
[1]	All unrealized gains recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income for our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Accumulated other comprehensive income to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust. See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust.
[2]	All losses recognized in Other income (expense), net for our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Other income (expense), net to Deferred preneed receipts held in trust. See Note 6 for further information related to our Deferred preneed receipts held in trust.
[3]	All unrealized gains (losses) recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income for our cemetery perpetual care trust investments are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Accumulated other comprehensive income to Care trusts’ corpus. See Note 6 for further information related to our Care trusts’ corpus.
[4]	All losses recognized in Other income (expense), net for our cemetery perpetual care trust investments are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Other income (expense), net to Care trusts’ corpus. See Note 6 for further information related to our Care trusts’ corpus.

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust72

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Investments Classifed by Contractual Maturity Date (Details) - Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member] $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]
Due in one year or less	$ 27,700
Due in one to five years	21,107
Due in five to ten years	448
Thereafter	983
Total	$ 50,238

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust73

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	$ 657,629	$ 708,011
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(28,188)	(20,990)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	344,426	35,581
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(60,395)	(13,031)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	1,002,055	743,592
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(88,583)	(34,021)
US Treasury Securities [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	3,275	497
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(80)	(4)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	35	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(1)	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	3,310	497
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(81)	(4)
Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	18,499	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(164)	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	1,371	7,825
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(102)	(233)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	19,870	7,825
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(266)	(233)
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	5,163	4,656
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(134)	(108)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	4,147	3,198
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(150)	(102)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	9,310	7,854
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(284)	(210)
Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	303	256
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(3)	(5)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	117	69
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(6)	(1)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	420	325
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(9)	(6)
Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	145	373
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(12)	(4)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	360	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(19)	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	505	373
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(31)	(4)
Preferred Stock securities [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	4,029	2,224
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(159)	(11)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	0	49
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	0	(1)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	4,029	2,273
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(159)	(12)
US Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		192,015
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(11,706)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		585
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		192,600
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(11,706)
US Common Stock Securities [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	81,624	100,370
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(7,793)	(4,803)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	14,900	419
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(3,105)	(78)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	96,524	100,789
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(10,898)	(4,881)
Canada Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		2,069
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(319)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		778
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(522)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		2,847
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(841)
Canada Common Stock Securities [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	702	2,418
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(31)	(244)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	1,026	757
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(575)	(352)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	1,728	3,175
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(606)	(596)
Other International Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		28,308
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(2,395)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		28,308
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(2,395)
Other International Common Stock Securities [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	8,734	4,444
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(940)	(399)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	2,347	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(1,450)	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	11,081	4,444
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(2,390)	(399)
Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		303,211
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(18,329)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		1,577
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(101)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		304,788
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(18,430)
Equity Funds [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	4,580	2,601
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(606)	(85)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	1,258	153
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(1,244)	(8)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	5,838	2,754
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(1,850)	(93)
Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		159,572
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(4,106)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		15,113
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(596)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		174,685
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(4,702)
Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	519,981	576,890
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(18,205)	(14,177)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	294,309	2,581
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(45,708)	(86)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	814,290	579,471
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(63,913)	(14,263)
Private Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		88
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(100)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		7,518
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(6,083)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		7,606
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(6,183)
Private Equity Funds [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	10,594	9,213
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(61)	(798)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	24,556	14,254
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(8,035)	(9,990)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	35,150	23,467
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	$ (8,096)	(10,788)
Other Investments [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		4,069
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(352)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		6,276
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(2,180)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		10,345
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		$ (2,532)

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust74

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Cemetry Perpetual Care Trusts, Textuals (Details) - Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share, Unfunded Commitments	$ 54,200
Underlying assets liquidation range, minimum	2 years
Underlying assets liquidation range, maximum	10 years
Available-for-sale securities, estimated maturity date, minimum	2,016
Available-for-sale securities, estimated maturity date, maximum	2,045
Investment Earnings, Net	$ 59,600	$ 72,400	$ 44,100
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net	$ 1,812	$ 8,072	$ 192

Deferred Preneed Funeral and 75

Deferred Preneed Funeral and Cemetery Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trusts' Corpus Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Components of Other Income, Nonoperating [Line Items]
Deferred preneed funeral and cemetery receipts held in trust, excluding accrued expenses	$ 2,977,612	$ 3,155,528
Accrued trust operating payables and other	(4,226)	(6,644)
Deferred preneed receipts held in trust	2,973,386	3,148,884
Care trusts’ corpus	1,319,564	1,327,658
Total other income, net	(113)	1,780		$ (558)
Operating Segments [Member]
Components of Other Income, Nonoperating [Line Items]
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	100,477	574,333		184,264
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	(79,203)	(303,314)		(27,063)
Impairment charges	(9,676)	(109,958)		(2,596)
Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income	109,294	92,391		86,708
Trust expenses and income taxes	(85,967)	(74,666)		(42,449)
Net trust investment income	34,925	178,786		198,864
Investment Income, Nonoperating, Effect on Deferred Preneed Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trust Corpus'	(34,925)	(178,786)		(198,864)
Other income, net	(113)	1,780		(558)
Total other income, net	(113)	1,780		(558)
Funeral [Member]
Components of Other Income, Nonoperating [Line Items]
Deferred preneed funeral and cemetery receipts held in trust, excluding accrued expenses	1,515,113	1,628,875
Accrued trust operating payables and other	(1,381)	(2,487)
Deferred preneed receipts held in trust	1,513,732	1,626,388
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	42,034	168,567	[1]	65,011
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	(31,403)	(113,748)	[1]	(9,732)
Impairment charges	(3,519)	(41,846)		(829)
Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income	25,952	22,668		24,912
Trust expenses and income taxes	(21,852)	(19,590)		(11,371)
Net trust investment income	11,212	16,051		67,991
Investment Income, Nonoperating, Effect on Deferred Preneed Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trust Corpus'	(11,212)	(16,051)		(67,991)
Other income, net	0	0		0
Total other income, net	0	0		0
Cemetery [Member]
Components of Other Income, Nonoperating [Line Items]
Deferred preneed funeral and cemetery receipts held in trust, excluding accrued expenses	1,462,499	1,526,653
Accrued trust operating payables and other	(2,845)	(4,157)
Deferred preneed receipts held in trust	1,459,654	1,522,496
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	51,510	271,507		101,337
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	(40,092)	(138,473)		(14,593)
Impairment charges	(4,345)	(60,040)		(1,575)
Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income	27,089	17,597		20,527
Trust expenses and income taxes	(31,472)	(20,833)		(14,633)
Net trust investment income	2,690	69,758		91,063
Investment Income, Nonoperating, Effect on Deferred Preneed Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trust Corpus'	(2,690)	(69,758)		(91,063)
Other income, net	0	0		0
Total other income, net	0	0		0
Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Components of Other Income, Nonoperating [Line Items]
Accrued trust operating payables and other	137	(13,718)
Care trusts' corpus, excluding accrued expenses	1,319,427	1,341,376
Care trusts’ corpus	1,319,564	1,327,658
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	6,933	134,259	[1]	17,916
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	(7,708)	(51,093)	[1]	(2,738)
Impairment charges	(1,812)	(8,072)		(192)
Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income	56,253	52,126		41,269
Trust expenses and income taxes	(32,643)	(34,243)		(16,445)
Net trust investment income	21,023	92,977		39,810
Investment Income, Nonoperating, Effect on Deferred Preneed Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trust Corpus'	(21,023)	(92,977)		(39,810)
Other income, net	0	0		0
Total other income, net	0	0		0
Corporate Elimination [Member]
Components of Other Income, Nonoperating [Line Items]
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	0	0		0
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	0	0		0
Impairment charges	0	0		0
Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income	0	0		0
Trust expenses and income taxes	0	0		0
Net trust investment income	0	0		0
Investment Income, Nonoperating, Effect on Deferred Preneed Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trust Corpus'	0	0		0
Other income, net	(113)	1,780		(558)
Total other income, net	$ (113)	$ 1,780		$ (558)
[1]	(1)The increase in activity in 2014 is the result of changing the legal structure of the trust investments.

Goodwill and Intangible Asset76

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning balance	$ 1,810,853	$ 1,825,721
Goodwill, net, beginning balance	1,810,853
Increase in goodwill related to acquisitions	12,661	3,530
Reduction of goodwill related to divestitures	(9,170)	(8,919)
Effect of foreign currency and other	(18,004)	(9,479)
Goodwill, Period Increase (Decrease)	(14,513)	(14,868)
Goodwill, ending balance		1,810,853	$ 1,825,721
Goodwill, net, ending balance	1,796,340	1,810,853
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	385,863	382,948
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	257,157	220,682
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	128,706	162,266
Indefinite-Lived Trade Names	230,659	220,875
Other Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets	10,640	10,640
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	241,299	231,515
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	370,005	393,781
Amortization of intangible assets	31,459	36,640	21,859
Future Amortization Expense, Year One	14,490
Future Amortization Expense, Year Two	11,876
Future Amortization Expense, Year Three	11,119
Future Amortization Expense, Year Four	7,869
Future Amortization Expense, Year Five	6,772
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	206,822	209,920
Customer Relationships [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	154,364	148,351
Trade Names [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	12,750	12,750
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	11,927	11,927
Funeral [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning balance	1,510,879	1,526,011
Goodwill, net, beginning balance	1,510,879
Increase in goodwill related to acquisitions	6,460	292
Reduction of goodwill related to divestitures	(8,908)	(5,959)
Effect of foreign currency and other	(17,929)	(9,465)
Goodwill, Period Increase (Decrease)	(20,377)	(15,132)
Goodwill, ending balance		1,510,879	1,526,011
Goodwill, net, ending balance	1,490,502	1,510,879
Amortization of intangible assets	22,767	24,841	17,245
Cemetery [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning balance	299,974	299,710
Goodwill, net, beginning balance	299,974
Increase in goodwill related to acquisitions	6,201	3,238
Reduction of goodwill related to divestitures	(262)	(2,960)
Effect of foreign currency and other	(75)	(14)
Goodwill, Period Increase (Decrease)	5,864	264
Goodwill, ending balance		299,974	299,710
Goodwill, net, ending balance	305,838	299,974
Amortization of intangible assets	$ 8,617	$ 11,700	$ 4,590
Minimum [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum	2 years
Minimum [Member] | Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum	2 years
Minimum [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum	10 years
Minimum [Member] | Trade Names [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum	5 years
Minimum [Member] | Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum	5 years
Maximum [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum	40 years
Maximum [Member] | Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum	20 years
Maximum [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum	20 years
Maximum [Member] | Trade Names [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum	5 years
Maximum [Member] | Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum	40 years

Income Taxes Income Taxes Detai

Income Taxes Income Taxes Details 1 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

[1]

Sep. 30, 2015

[1]

Jun. 30, 2015

[1]

Mar. 31, 2015

[1]

Dec. 31, 2014

[1]

Sep. 30, 2014

[1]

Jun. 30, 2014

[1]

Mar. 31, 2014

[1]

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Income Taxes [Abstract]

United States

$ 331,622

$ 360,800

$ 199,374

Foreign

38,729

41,800

45,832

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

$ 113,699

$ 74,045

$ 84,489

$ 98,118

$ 177,591

$ 91,735

$ 69,316

$ 63,958

$ 370,351

$ 402,600

$ 245,206

[1]

Includes (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net, as described in Note 19.

Income Taxes Income Taxes Det78

Income Taxes Income Taxes Details 2 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Current: United States									$ 94,502	$ 67,511	$ 2,207
Current: Foreign									9,270	10,859	12,445
Current: State									13,207	17,939	6,664
Total current income taxes									116,979	96,309	21,316
Deferred: United States									15,918	108,514	64,355
Deferred: Foreign									(878)	(653)	58
Deferred: State									3,008	21,810	7,295
Provision for deferred income taxes									18,048	129,671	71,708
Provision for income taxes	$ (41,249)	$ (26,118)	$ (31,007)	$ (36,653)	$ (90,982)	$ (74,934)	$ (37,357)	$ (22,707)	135,027	225,980	93,024
Income Taxes Paid									105,400	106,300	26,000
Proceeds from Income Tax Refunds									$ 1,900	$ 600	$ 500

Income Taxes Income Taxes Det79

Income Taxes Income Taxes Details 3 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Computed tax provision at the applicable federal statutory income tax rate									$ 129,623	$ 140,910	$ 86,002
State and local taxes, net of federal income tax benefits									10,542	25,736	8,221
Dividends received deduction and tax exempt interest									(444)	(1,612)	(592)
Foreign jurisdiction differences									(5,183)	(4,424)	(3,685)
Permanent differences associated with dispositions									2,909	61,892	268
Changes in uncertain tax positions									4,046	4,624	3,710
Other									(6,466)	(1,146)	(900)
Provision for income taxes	$ (41,249)	$ (26,118)	$ (31,007)	$ (36,653)	$ (90,982)	$ (74,934)	$ (37,357)	$ (22,707)	$ 135,027	$ 225,980	$ 93,024
Total effective tax rate									36.50%	56.10%	37.90%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Percent									35.00%

Income Taxes Income Taxes Det80

Income Taxes Income Taxes Details 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Inventories and cemetery property	$ (338,143)	$ (338,446)
Property and equipment	(168,265)	(183,332)
Intangibles	(302,217)	(309,271)
Other	(12,047)	(6,870)
Deferred tax liabilities	(820,672)	(837,919)
Loss and tax credit carry-forwards	171,725	181,092
Deferred revenue on preneed funeral and cemetery contracts	226,483	262,202
Accrued liabilities	102,351	99,908
Deferred tax assets	500,559	543,202
Less: Valuation allowance	(126,654)	(134,201)
Net deferred income tax liability	$ (446,767)	$ (428,918)

Income Taxes Income Taxes Det81

Income Taxes Income Taxes Details 5 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Current deferred tax assets	$ 0	$ 1,128
Non-current deferred tax assets	23,817	18,778
Non-current deferred tax liabilities	(470,584)	(448,824)
Net deferred income tax liability	(446,767)	(428,918)
Impact of of certain tax items	43,500	16,200
Undistributed Earnings from Foreign Subsidiaries	$ 259,800	$ 259,400

Income Taxes Income Taxes Det82

Income Taxes Income Taxes Details 6 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 191,680	$ 177,830	$ 184,899
Reductions to tax positions related to the current year		(1,075)	(3,019)
Additions to tax positions related to the acquisition of Stewart, offset to goodwill			1,556
Reductions to tax positions related to prior years			(8,800)
Reductions to tax positions related to the acquisition offset to goodwill		(1,556)	(2,844)
Additions to tax positions related to the current year	3,235	8,721
Additions to tax positions related to prior years		(10,085)
Reductions to tax positions related to prior years	(12,370)	(2,325)
Ending Balance	182,545	191,680	177,830
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate	157,200	154,800	106,300
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued	51,600	47,600	44,500
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense	$ 4,000	$ 3,100	$ 3,000

Income Taxes Income Taxes Det83

Income Taxes Income Taxes Details 7 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
2,016		$ 156,434
2,017		247,348
2,018		102,661
2,019		137,636
Thereafter		2,591,346
Operating Loss Carryforwards		3,235,425
Loss Carry Forwards, Unexpiring		53,700
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount		1,600
Loss and tax credit carry-forwards		171,725	$ 181,092
Valuation allowance		126,654	$ 134,201
Federal
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Loss and tax credit carry-forwards		179
Valuation allowance		0
State
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
2,016		156,434
2,017		247,348
2,018		102,661
2,019		137,636
Thereafter		2,587,522
Operating Loss Carryforwards		3,231,601
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount		6,000
Loss and tax credit carry-forwards	[1]	151,463
Valuation allowance	[1]	110,955
Foreign
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
2,016		0
2,017		0
2,018		0
2,019		0
Thereafter		3,824
Operating Loss Carryforwards		3,824
Loss and tax credit carry-forwards		20,083
Valuation allowance		$ 15,699
[1]	Federal State Foreign Total (In thousands) Loss and tax credit carry-forwards$179 $151,463 $20,083 $171,725Valuation allowance$— $110,955 $15,699 $126,654

Debt Level 4 (Details)

Debt Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Increase (Decrease), Net	$ 110,000	$ 135,000	$ 95,000
Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations		28,601	29,380	$ 26,280
Repayments of Debt		357,600	993,400	31,800
Repayments of Long-term Debt		160,220	230,561	90,466
Repayments of Other Debt		200	500	600
(Losses) gains on early extinguishment of debt, net		(6,918)	(29,158)	468
Notes Payable to Bank, Noncurrent		310,000	370,000
Bank credit facility due March 2016			86,600
Total debt		3,166,919	3,054,725
Current maturities of long-term debt		(95,181)	(90,931)
Less current maturities		95,181	90,931
Total long-term debt		$ 3,071,738	$ 2,963,794
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate		5.18%	5.21%
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate		76.00%	75.00%
2,012		$ 95,181
2,013		437,575
2,014		727,315
2,015		16,695
2,016		225,364
2017 and thereafter		1,664,789
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity		500,000
Letters of Credit, Maximum Borrowing Capacity		31,000		175,000
Interest Paid		164,748	$ 175,327	$ 125,022
Payments in 2016		161,896
Payments in 2017		150,012
Payments in 2018		128,239
Payments in 2019		106,210
Payments in 2020		104,706
Payments in 2021 and thereafter		291,116
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium		11,300
April 2015 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt			136,500
April 2016 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt		197,400
July 2016 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount			59,100
Repayments of Debt			45,000
Repayments of Other Debt			14,200
Convertible Debt			46,279
April 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt			200,000
Repayments of Other Debt			9,100
Convertible Debt			200,000
July 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt		60,000	230,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt		100,000
Discount (premium) [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount			167,000
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized pricing discounts and other		8,636	(2,905)
Unsecured Debt [Member] | February 2013 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes			4,800
Unsecured Debt [Member] | April 2016 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		0	197,377
Unsecured Debt [Member] | June 2017 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		295,000	295,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | October 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		250,000	250,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | November 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		200,000	200,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | November 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		150,000	150,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | January 2022 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		425,000	425,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | April 2027 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		200,000	200,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | May 2024 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		850,000	550,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | July 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Bank credit facility due March 2016		270,000	235,000
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Obligations under capital leases		204,246	181,002
Mortgages [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Mortgage notes and other debt, maturities through 2047		$ 4,037	$ 4,251

Debt Debt, Textuals (Details)

Debt Debt, Textuals (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 02, 2013	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate		5.18%	5.21%
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate		76.00%	75.00%
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity		$ 500,000
Notes Payable to Bank, Noncurrent		310,000	$ 370,000
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt	$ 425,000	300,000	550,000
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses		6,900
Letters of Credit, Maximum Borrowing Capacity		$ 31,000		$ 175,000
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding			86,600
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage		0.35%
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity		$ 199,000
Principal payments on capital leases		28,601	29,380	26,280
Repayments of Other Debt		200	500	600
Repayments of Debt		357,600	993,400	31,800
(Losses) gains on early extinguishment of debt, net		(6,918)	(29,158)	468
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium		11,300
Capital Lease Obligations Incurred		55,900	35,400	$ 42,400
Pledged Assets Separately Reported, Finance Receivables Pledged as Collateral, at Fair Value		7,000	7,400
Pledged Assets, Other, Not Separately Reported on Statement of Financial Position		1,500	1,700
Long-term Debt, Fair Value		3,101,760	3,007,898
April 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Other Debt			9,100
Repayments of Debt			200,000
Convertible Debt			200,000
July 2014 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount			107,900
Repayments of Other Debt			21,700
Repayments of Debt			86,400
Convertible Debt			86,400
July 2016 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount			59,100
Repayments of Other Debt			14,200
Repayments of Debt			45,000
Convertible Debt			46,279
July 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt		60,000	230,000
May 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt			250,000
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal payments on capital leases			26,400
April 2015 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt			136,500
April 2016 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt		197,400
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt		100,000
Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt			200,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | April 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Fair Value		10,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | July 2014 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Fair Value		21,700
Unsecured Debt [Member] | July 2016 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Fair Value		14,200
Unsecured Debt [Member] | July 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding		270,000	235,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | February 2013 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes			4,800
Unsecured Debt [Member] | April 2016 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		0	197,377
Unsecured Debt [Member] | June 2017 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		295,000	295,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | October 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		250,000	250,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | May 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		200,000	200,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | November 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		150,000	150,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | April 2027 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes		$ 200,000	200,000
Discount (premium) [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount			$ 167,000

Credit Risk and Fair Value of86

Credit Risk and Fair Value of Financial Instruments Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Bank credit facility due March 2016		$ 86,600
Mortgage notes and other debt, maturities through 2047	$ 4,047	4,277
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	3,101,760	3,007,898
May 2024 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	884,094	558,250
April 2016 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	0	208,075
June 2017 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	314,618	320,043
October 2018 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	279,375	277,538
November 2020 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	201,500	201,700
November 2021 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	176,438	174,375
January 2022 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	445,188	437,750
April 2027 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	216,500	220,890
July 2018 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Bank credit facility due March 2016	270,000	235,000
Mortgage notes and other debt, maturities through 2047	$ 310,000	$ 370,000

Commitments and Contingencies87

Commitments and Contingencies Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	$ 33,300	$ 37,200	$ 28,400
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current	14,496
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years	12,110
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years	10,545
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years	8,641
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years	7,167
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter	61,010
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due	113,969
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current	34,415
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years	51,756
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years	46,290
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years	21,499
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years	24,010
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter	26,276
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due	204,246
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments	(17,396)
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Net Minimum Payments	186,850
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in One Year	6,767
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Two Years	5,534
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Three Years	4,798
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Four Years	4,398
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Five Years	2,964
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Six Years and Thereafter	6,068
Agreements, Future Payments Due	30,529
Self Insurance Reserve	76,600	$ 74,000
Employment Agreement [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in One Year	1,427
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Two Years	988
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Three Years	508
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Four Years	301
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Five Years	22
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Six Years and Thereafter	8
Agreements, Future Payments Due	3,254
Consulting Agreement [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in One Year	589
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Two Years	194
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Three Years	124
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Four Years	75
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Five Years	38
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Six Years and Thereafter	0
Agreements, Future Payments Due	1,020
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in One Year	4,751
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Two Years	4,352
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Three Years	4,166
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Four Years	4,022
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Five Years	2,904
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Six Years and Thereafter	6,060
Agreements, Future Payments Due	$ 26,255
Minimum [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Management, consulting and non-compete agreement term	5 years
Maximum [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Management, consulting and non-compete agreement term	10 years

Equity Level 4 (Details)

Equity Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 11, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired	977,396	12,455,281		11,488,332
Common stock, par or stated value per share		$ 1	$ 1
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share		$ 1
Accumulated other comprehensive income [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	$ 6,164	$ 59,414
Other comprehensive income attributable to parent		(53,283)	$ (32,096)	$ (23,292)
Reclassification of foreign currency translation adjustments to discontinued operations		0	(3,114)	0
Balance at end of period		6,164	59,414
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Par Value Method	$ 24,000	$ 345,300		$ 242,900
Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share	$ 24.51	$ 27.72		$ 21.14
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	$ 6,164	$ 59,414	88,441	$ 111,717
Other comprehensive income attributable to parent		(53,250)	(32,141)	(23,276)
Reclassification of foreign currency translation adjustments to discontinued operations			3,114
Decrease in net unrealized gains associated with available-for-sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes		(85,140)	(166,570)	(113,553)
Reclassification of net unrealized loss activity		85,140	166,570	113,553
Balance at end of period		6,164	59,414	88,441
Foreign Currency Gain (Loss) [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	6,164	59,414	88,441	111,717
Other comprehensive income attributable to parent		(53,250)	(32,141)	(23,276)
Reclassification of foreign currency translation adjustments to discontinued operations			3,114
Decrease in net unrealized gains associated with available-for-sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes		0	0	0
Reclassification of net unrealized loss activity		0	0	0
Balance at end of period		6,164	59,414	88,441
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	$ 0	0	0	0
Other comprehensive income attributable to parent		0	0	0
Reclassification of foreign currency translation adjustments to discontinued operations			0
Decrease in net unrealized gains associated with available-for-sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes		(85,140)	(166,570)	(113,553)
Reclassification of net unrealized loss activity		85,140	166,570	113,553
Balance at end of period		$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Equity Textuals (Details)

Equity Textuals (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 11, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2014	Oct. 15, 2013	Jun. 03, 2011
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized		1,000,000	1,000,000
Common stock, shares authorized		500,000,000	500,000,000	500,000,000
Common stock, shares, issued		200,859,676	200,859,676	205,458,331
Common stock, shares outstanding		195,772,876	195,772,876	204,866,770
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired	977,396		12,455,281		11,488,332
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Par Value Method	$ 24,000		$ 345,300		$ 242,900
Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share	$ 24.51		$ 27.72		$ 21.14
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount		$ 400,000	$ 400,000
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount		$ 278,800	$ 278,800
Dividends declared per share	$ 0.12	$ 0.12	$ 0.44	$ 0.34	$ 0.27
Payments of Dividends, Common Stock			$ 87,570	$ 71,517	$ 57,229
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired		24.40%	24.40%			10.00%	20.00%	70.00%
Purchase of noncontrolling interest			$ 2,075	$ 15,000	$ 23,333

Share-Based Compensation Leve90

Share-Based Compensation Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total pretax employee share-based compensation expense included in net income	$ 13,843	$ 13,127	$ 11,925
Income tax benefit related to share-based compensation included in net income	$ 5,068	$ 7,368	$ 4,689
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Exercised	(122,000)	(761,000)	(3,004,000)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options				11,047,920
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	4 years 7 months 6 days
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance				$ 13.98
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options				6,917,973
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price				$ 10.56
Stock Option Plan Exercise Range 1 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit	$ 0
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit	$ 5
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options				981,087
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	1 year 1 month 6 days
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance				$ 4.19
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options				981,087
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price				$ 4.19
Stock Option Plan Exercise Range 2 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit	$ 5.01
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit	$ 10
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options				2,523,076
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	2 years 7 months 6 days
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance				$ 8.43
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options				2,523,076
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price				$ 8.43
Stock Option Plan Exercise Range 3 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit	$ 10.01
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit	$ 15
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options				1,579,044
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	3 years 10 months 24 days
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance				$ 11.19
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options				1,579,044
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price				$ 11.19
Stock Option Plan Exercise Range 4 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit	$ 15.01
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit	$ 20
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options				3,959,863
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	5 years 8 months 12 days
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance				$ 16.48
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options				1,771,466
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price				$ 16.11
Stock Option Plan Exercise Range 5 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit	$ 20.01
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit	$ 25
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options				2,004,850
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	7 years 1 month 6 days
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance				$ 23
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options				63,300
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price				$ 23
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Dividend yield	1.80%	1.80%	1.90%
Expected volatility	23.30%	27.10%	35.20%
Risk-free interest rate	1.30%	1.10%	0.70%
Expected holding period	4 years	4 years	4 years
Total pretax employee share-based compensation expense included in net income	$ 7,900	$ 7,500	$ 6,700
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Options outstanding at beginning of period	12,107,106
Options outstanding at beginning of period, weighted average exercise price	$ 11.63
Granted	2,036,010
Granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 23
Exercised	(3,049,099)
Exercised, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 10.53
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period	(46,097)
Cancelled, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 20.21
Options outstanding at end of period	11,047,920	12,107,106
Options outstanding at end of period, weighted average exercise price	$ 13.98	$ 11.63
Options exercisable at December 31, 2011	12,107,106	12,107,106		11,047,920
Options exercisable at December 31, 2011, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 11.63	$ 11.63		$ 13.98
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number				6,917,973
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price				$ 10.56
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total pretax employee share-based compensation expense included in net income	$ 5,900	$ 5,700	$ 5,200
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward]
Nonvested restricted shares at beginning of period	1,319,260
Nonvested restricted shares at beginning of period, weighted average grant date fair value	$ 13.39
Granted	253,791
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 23
Vested	(990,558)
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 12.37
Nonvested restricted shares at end of period	573,739	1,319,260
Nonvested restricted shares at end of period, weighted average grant date fair value	$ 19.32	$ 13.39
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period	(8,754)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 19.83

Share-Based Compensation Share-

Share-Based Compensation Share-Based Compensation, Textuals (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Vesting rate	33.33%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	44,000,000
Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance	1,531,410	4,916,787
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options	$ 43,500	$ 31,600	$ 7,300
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value	$ 133,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value		$ 107,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 3.79	$ 3.34	$ 3.68
Fair Value of Stock Options Vested	$ 7,973	$ 6,814	$ 5,997
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value	52,513	42,048	8,855
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	31,809	32,376	6,309
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 13,843	13,127	11,925
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period	46,097
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 7,900	7,500	6,700
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized	$ 8,400
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	1 year 3 months 18 days
Restricted Stock [Member]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 5,900	$ 5,700	$ 5,200
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized	$ 6,100
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	1 year 8 months 12 days
Stock Option Plan Exercise Range 1 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit	$ 0
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit	5
Stock Option Plan Exercise Range 2 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit	5.01
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit	10
Stock Option Plan Exercise Range 3 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit	10.01
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit	15
Stock Option Plan Exercise Range 4 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit	15.01
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit	$ 20

Retirement Plans Retirement P92

Retirement Plans Retirement Plans Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Business Combinations and Acquisitions, Benefit Obligation	$ 0	$ 0
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Support, Methodology and Source Data	0.5
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	$ 1,198	1,293	$ 780
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses)	(1,327)	2,401	(1,205)
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost	(129)	3,694	(425)
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation	36,920	37,499
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	1,198	1,293	780
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Net (Gains) Losses	(1,327)	2,401
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid	(4,486)	(4,273)
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation	32,305	36,920	37,499
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer	4,486	4,273
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid	(4,486)	(4,273)
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0	$ 0
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	(32,305)	(36,920)
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation	32,305	36,920
Defined Benefit Pension Plan Liabilities, Current	(3,723)	(4,005)
Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent	(28,582)	(32,915)
Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities	(32,305)	(36,920)
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Amount of Plan Participants' Future Benefits Covered by Insurance Contracts Issued by Employer or Related Parties	48,900	47,800
Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance, Retirement Plans	$ 37,700	$ 37,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate	3.86%	3.42%	3.66%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate	2.47%	3.69%	2.90%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase	0.00%
2,016	$ 3,723
2,017	3,425
2,018	3,216
2,019	3,146
2,020	2,724
Years 2021 through 2025	10,565
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized	$ 30,800	$ 26,800	$ 24,300

Segment Reporting Level 4 (Deta

Segment Reporting Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers																	$ 2,986,380	$ 2,994,011	$ 2,550,466
Interest expense																	172,897	177,571	142,360
Depreciation and amortization																	141,456	140,002	122,235
Depreciation and amortization																	141,456	140,002	122,235
Amortization of intangible assets																	31,459	36,640	21,859
Amortization of cemetery property																	62,407	60,439	48,344
Total assets	$ 11,718,888								$ 11,923,644								11,718,888	11,923,644
Capital expenditures																	150,986	144,499	112,939
Gross profits from reportable segments	187,441		$ 140,803		$ 166,258		$ 177,443		205,302		$ 148,284		$ 156,041		$ 166,058		671,945	675,685	549,047
General and administrative expenses																	(128,188)	(184,749)	(155,128)
Gains (losses) on divestitures and impairment charges, net																	6,522	116,613	(6,263)
Operating income	157,035		124,548		127,581		141,115		220,281		135,119		144,730		107,419		550,279	607,549	387,656
(Losses) gains on early extinguishment of debt, net																	(6,918)	(29,158)	468
Other (expense) income, net																	(113)	1,780	(558)
Income before income taxes	113,699	[1]	$ 74,045	[1]	$ 84,489	[1]	$ 98,118	[1]	177,591	[1]	$ 91,735	[1]	$ 69,316	[1]	$ 63,958	[1]	$ 370,351	$ 402,600	245,206
Long-lived assets																	6,012,588	6,035,720
UNITED STATES
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers																	$ 2,805,748	$ 2,792,009	2,334,667
Interest expense																	172,697	177,245	141,991
Depreciation and amortization																	132,393	129,510	111,210
Amortization of intangible assets																	30,856	35,895	20,846
Amortization of cemetery property																	58,429	55,679	42,972
Gains (losses) on divestitures and impairment charges, net																	1,778	116,046	(5,958)
Operating income																	$ 498,615	$ 557,608	331,143
Long-lived assets																	5,759,342	5,735,205
CANADA
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers																	$ 180,632	$ 202,002	215,799
Interest expense																	200	326	369
Depreciation and amortization																	9,063	10,492	11,025
Amortization of intangible assets																	603	745	1,013
Amortization of cemetery property																	3,978	4,760	5,372
Gains (losses) on divestitures and impairment charges, net																	4,744	567	(305)
Operating income																	$ 51,664	$ 49,941	56,513
Long-lived assets																	253,246	300,514.93
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization																	$ 141,456
Amortization of intangible assets																	31,459
Amortization of cemetery property																	62,407
Total assets	11,718,888																11,718,888
Capital expenditures																	150,986
Gross profits from reportable segments																	671,945
Other (expense) income, net																	(113)	$ 1,780	(558)
Funeral [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers																	1,888,812	1,920,475	1,698,493
Interest expense																	4,228	4,714	4,736
Depreciation and amortization																	103,119	101,801	92,588
Amortization of intangible assets																	22,767	24,841	17,245
Amortization of cemetery property																	0	0	0
Total assets	5,197,037								5,305,294								5,197,037	5,305,294
Capital expenditures																	53,291	52,610	50,304
Gross profits from reportable segments																	387,533	409,701	349,791
Other (expense) income, net																	0	0	0
Cemetery [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers																	1,097,568	1,073,536	851,973
Interest expense																	448	510	348
Depreciation and amortization																	29,601	28,745	23,384
Amortization of intangible assets																	8,617	11,700	4,590
Amortization of cemetery property																	62,407	60,439	48,344
Total assets	6,165,047								6,152,113								6,165,047	6,152,113
Capital expenditures																	83,573	78,588	58,315
Gross profits from reportable segments																	284,412	265,984	199,256
Other (expense) income, net																	0	0	0
Corporate Elimination [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers																	0	0	0
Interest expense																	168,221	172,347	137,276
Depreciation and amortization																	8,736	9,456	6,263
Amortization of intangible assets																	75	99	24
Amortization of cemetery property																	0	0	0
Total assets	$ 356,804								466,237								356,804	466,237
Capital expenditures																	14,122	13,301	4,320
Gross profits from reportable segments																	0	0	0
Other (expense) income, net																	$ (113)	1,780	(558)
Consolidated Entities [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers																		2,994,011	2,550,466
Interest expense																		177,571	142,360
Depreciation and amortization																		140,002	122,235
Amortization of intangible assets																		36,640	21,859
Amortization of cemetery property																		60,439	48,344
Total assets									$ 11,923,644									11,923,644
Capital expenditures																		144,499	112,939
Gross profits from reportable segments																		$ 675,685	$ 549,047
[1]	Includes (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net, as described in Note 19.

Supplementary Information Lev94

Supplementary Information Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash	$ 106,831	$ 132,743
Commercial paper and temporary investments	27,768	44,592
Cash and cash equivalents	134,599	177,335	$ 141,584	$ 88,769
Receivables, net:
Notes receivable	2,056	8,381
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current	2,153	2,346
Other	22,637	24,521
Receivables, net	90,462	109,050
Other current assets:
Income tax receivable	15,662	22,581
Prepaid insurance	5,398	5,270
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current	12,587	28,926
Deferred Finance Costs, Current, Net	9,522	9,180
Other Assets, Current	12,344	14,817
Other	55,513	80,774
Cemetery Property, Undeveloped Land	1,186,861	1,186,325
Cemetery Property, Developed	566,154	552,891
Cemetery property, at cost	1,753,015	1,739,216
Land	591,407	603,509
Buildings and Improvements, Gross	1,834,403	1,783,171
Machinery and Equipment, Gross	530,195	500,511
Leasehold Improvements, Gross	52,121	50,862
Capital Leased Assets, Gross	220,784	204,991
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	3,228,910	3,143,044
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment	(1,253,872)	(1,163,921)
Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Property, Plant, and Equipment Other, Accumulated Depreciation	(128,316)	(117,720)
Property and equipment, net	1,846,722	1,861,403
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	370,005	393,781
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent	3,907	16,073
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent	23,817	18,778
Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Noncurrent	10,229	4,858
Allowance for Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Noncurrent	11,354	11,259
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent	99,827	87,902
Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance	108,726	102,856
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:
Accounts payable	140,045	137,270
Accrued compensation	86,908	86,880
Interest Payable, Current	28,673	30,133
Accrual for Taxes Other than Income Taxes, Current	11,594	14,346
Self Insurance Reserve, Current	76,611	73,991
Bank Overdrafts	21,808	27,798
Other Accrued Liabilities, Current	57,203	82,624
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	422,842	453,042
Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent	28,582	32,915
Deferred Compensation Liability, Classified, Noncurrent	92,199	83,278
Customer Funds	55,153	60,019
Tax liability	234,176	239,265
Indemnification Liability	0	236
Payable to ECF	71,133	64,722
Other Assets, Noncurrent	15,678	22,118
Total merchandise revenues	1,452,656	1,433,972	1,237,640
Total services revenues	1,352,254	1,390,219	1,158,488
Other revenues	181,470	169,820	154,338
Total revenues	2,986,380	2,994,011	2,550,466
Total cost of merchandise	773,309	777,322	646,881
Total cost of services	695,681	700,796	600,096
Overhead and other expenses	845,445	840,208	754,442
Total costs and expenses	2,314,435	2,318,326	$ 2,001,419
Deferred charges and other assets	616,511	624,248
Other liabilities	$ 496,921	$ 502,553
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period	122	761	3,004
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares	(122)	(761)	(3,004)
Funeral [Member]
Receivables, net:
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current	$ 52,184	$ 61,306
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current	3,343	6,200
Other current assets:
Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance	271,116	260,899
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:
Total merchandise revenues	603,405	616,992	$ 584,429
Total services revenues	1,134,807	1,167,385	989,624
Total revenues	1,888,812	1,920,475	1,698,493
Total cost of merchandise	285,432	292,031	266,558
Total cost of services	629,842	630,357	548,534
Cemetery [Member]
Receivables, net:
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current	13,585	14,842
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:
Total merchandise revenues	849,251	816,980	653,211
Total services revenues	217,447	222,834	168,864
Total revenues	1,097,568	1,073,536	851,973
Total cost of merchandise	487,877	485,291	380,323
Total cost of services	$ 65,839	$ 70,439	$ 51,562

Earnings Per Share Level 4 (Det

Earnings Per Share Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Income from continuing operations attributable to common stockholders, basic																	$ 234,162	$ 170,283	$ 146,926
Income from continuing operations — diluted																	234,212	170,334	146,977
Net income attributable to common stockholders	$ 72,354		$ 47,448		$ 52,595		$ 61,375		$ 87,794		$ 17,651		$ 25,922		$ 41,102		233,772	172,469	147,332
After tax interest on convertible debt																	50	51	51
Income from discontinued operations, net	$ 0		$ 0		$ (390)		$ 0		$ 1,340		$ 884		$ (178)		$ 140		(390)	2,186	406
Net income — diluted																	$ 233,822	$ 172,520	$ 147,383
Weighted average shares (denominator):
Weighted average shares — basic																	200,356	210,741	211,811
Stock options																	3,973	3,338	4,082
Convertible debt																	121	121	121
Weighted average shares — diluted																	204,450	214,200	216,014
Net income attributable to common stockholders, basic	$ 0.37	[1]	$ 0.24	[1]	$ 0.26	[1]	$ 0.30	[1]	$ 0.42	[1]	$ 0.08	[1]	$ 0.12	[1]	$ 0.19	[1]	$ 1.17	$ 0.82	$ 0.70
Net income attributable to common stockholders, diluted	$ 0.36	[1]	$ 0.23	[1]	$ 0.25	[1]	$ 0.30	[1]	$ 0.42	[1]	$ 0.08	[1]	$ 0.12	[1]	$ 0.19	[1]	1.14	0.81	0.68
Income from continuing operations attributable to common stockholders, per share, basic																		0.81	0.70
Income from continuing operations attributable to common stockholders, per share, diluted																		0.80	0.68
Income from discontinued operations per share, basic																	0	0.01	0
Income from discontinued operations per share, diluted																	$ 0	$ 0.01	$ 0
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount																	3	1,500	1,200
[1]	Net income per share is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of the quarters’ net income per share may not equal the total computed for the year.

Acquisition Acquisition, Textua

Acquisition Acquisition, Textuals (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 23, 2013	Oct. 15, 2013	Jun. 03, 2011
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	$ 41,258	$ 15,336	$ 1,057,122
Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Per Share					$ 13.25
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred	$ 1,500,000
Business Combination, Debt Assumed					$ 331,500
Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual		11,400
Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual		800
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue		2,919,278
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss)		$ 203,916
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired	24.40%			10.00%		20.00%	70.00%
Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Including Subsequent Acquisition, Percentage						90.00%

Divestiture Related Activitie97

Divestiture Related Activities Divestitiure Related Activities Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue									$ 0	$ 1,613	$ 5,907
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses									6,900
(Losses) gains on divestitures									13,363	122,535	(3,350)
Impairment losses									(6,841)	(5,922)	(2,913)
Gains (losses) on divestitures and impairment charges, net									6,522	116,613	(6,263)
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Costs and Expenses									0	(1,471)	(5,393)
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Business									(390)	2,136	0
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Expense									0	(2)	(1)
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax									(390)	2,276	513
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Provision for Income Tax									0	(90)	(107)
Income from discontinued operations, net	$ 0	$ 0	$ (390)	$ 0	$ 1,340	$ 884	$ (178)	$ 140	$ (390)	$ 2,186	$ 406

Quarterly Financial Data Quar98

Quarterly Financial Data Quarterly Financial Data Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 769,383		$ 714,526		$ 754,354		$ 748,117		$ 783,444		$ 718,314		$ 746,760		$ 745,493		$ 2,986,380	$ 2,994,011	$ 2,550,466
Costs and expenses	(581,942)		(573,723)		(588,096)		(570,674)		(578,142)		(570,030)		(590,719)		(579,435)		(2,314,435)	(2,318,326)	(2,001,419)
Gross profits	187,441		140,803		166,258		177,443		205,302		148,284		156,041		166,058		671,945	675,685	549,047
Operating income	157,035		124,548		127,581		141,115		220,281		135,119		144,730		107,419		550,279	607,549	387,656
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	113,699	[1]	74,045	[1]	84,489	[1]	98,118	[1]	177,591	[1]	91,735	[1]	69,316	[1]	63,958	[1]	370,351	402,600	245,206
Provision for income taxes	(41,249)		(26,118)		(31,007)		(36,653)		(90,982)		(74,934)		(37,357)		(22,707)		135,027	225,980	93,024
Net income from continuing operations	72,450		47,927		53,482		61,465		86,609		16,801		31,959		41,251		235,324	176,620	152,182
Net loss from discontinued operations, net of tax	0		0		(390)		0		1,340		884		(178)		140		(390)	2,186	406
Net income	72,450		47,927		53,092		61,465		87,949		17,685		31,781		41,391		234,934	178,806	152,588
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(96)		(479)		(497)		(90)		(155)		(34)		(5,859)		(289)		(1,162)	(6,337)	(5,256)
Net income attributable to common stockholders	$ 72,354		$ 47,448		$ 52,595		$ 61,375		$ 87,794		$ 17,651		$ 25,922		$ 41,102		$ 233,772	$ 172,469	$ 147,332
Basic — EPS	$ 0.37	[2]	$ 0.24	[2]	$ 0.26	[2]	$ 0.30	[2]	$ 0.42	[2]	$ 0.08	[2]	$ 0.12	[2]	$ 0.19	[2]	$ 1.17	$ 0.82	$ 0.70
Earnings per share, diluted	$ 0.36	[2]	$ 0.23	[2]	$ 0.25	[2]	$ 0.30	[2]	$ 0.42	[2]	$ 0.08	[2]	$ 0.12	[2]	$ 0.19	[2]	$ 1.14	$ 0.81	$ 0.68
[1]	Includes (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net, as described in Note 19.
[2]	Net income per share is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of the quarters’ net income per share may not equal the total computed for the year.

Schedule II Valuation and Qua99

Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Account Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Account Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Current [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Beginning Balance		$ 8,546	$ 11,637	$ 8,884
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (credited) to Cost and Expense		6,083	7,376	7,874
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Other Accounts	[1]	63,964	55,573	54,774
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Write-Offs	[2]	(73,097)	(66,040)	(59,895)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Ending Balance CLONE		5,496	8,546	11,637
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Noncurrent [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Beginning Balance		11,259	10,986	1,316
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (credited) to Cost and Expense		0	0	0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Other Accounts	[1]	75	273	9,670
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Write-Offs	[2]	0	0	0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Ending Balance CLONE		11,334	11,259	10,986
Asset Allowance for Cancellation, Preneed Funeral and Preneed Cemetery [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Beginning Balance		107,040	106,793	83,642
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (credited) to Cost and Expense		5,016	2,950	4,498
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Other Accounts	[1]	(6,283)	(2,703)	18,653
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Write-Offs	[2]	0	0	0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Ending Balance CLONE		105,773	107,040	106,793
Revenue Allowance for Cancellation, Deferred Preneed Funeral and Cemetery [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Beginning Balance		(125,030)	(149,288)	(131,320)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (credited) to Cost and Expense		0	0	0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Other Accounts	[1]	3,482	24,258	(17,968)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Write-Offs	[2]	0	0	0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Ending Balance CLONE		(121,548)	(125,030)	(149,288)
Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Beginning Balance		134,201	114,719	71,013
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (credited) to Cost and Expense		(5,988)	21,285	6,213
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Other Accounts	[1]	(1,559)	(1,803)	37,493
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Write-Offs	[2]	0	0	0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Ending Balance CLONE		$ 126,654	$ 134,201	$ 114,719
[1]	Primarily relates to acquisitions and dispositions of operations.
[2]	Uncollected receivables written off, net of recoveries.