Service Corporation International (SCI) 10-K/A 21 Feb 17 2016 FY Annual report (amended) Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information Document - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Feb. 13, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	Service Corp 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, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		188,227,807
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 5,043,314,251

Consolidated Statement of Opera

Consolidated Statement of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	2 Months Ended	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Feb. 13, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016		Sep. 30, 2016		Jun. 30, 2016		Mar. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenue		$ 809,053		$ 721,467		$ 751,398		$ 749,219		$ 769,280		$ 714,453		$ 754,219		$ 748,089		$ 3,031,137	$ 2,986,041	$ 2,994,011
Costs and expenses		(598,276)		(580,722)		(589,409)		(586,296)		(581,478)		(572,774)		(587,452)		(569,748)		(2,354,703)	(2,311,452)	(2,318,326)
Gross profit		210,777		140,745		161,989		162,923		187,802		141,679		166,767		178,341		676,434	674,589	675,685
General and administrative expenses																		(137,730)	(130,813)	(184,749)
(Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net																		(26,819)	6,522	116,613
Operating income		179,329		114,386		94,498		123,672		157,055		124,548		127,580		141,115		511,885	550,298	607,549
Interest expense																		(162,093)	(172,897)	(177,571)
Losses on early extinguishment of debt, net																		(22,503)	(6,918)	(29,158)
Other (expense) income, net																		(631)	(132)	1,780
Income from continuing operations before income taxes		139,289	[1]	74,963	[1]	32,639	[1]	79,767	[1]	113,699	[1]	74,045	[1]	84,489	[1]	98,118	[1]	326,658	370,351	402,600
Provision for income taxes		72,872		27,422		16,746		32,313		41,249		26,118		31,007		36,653		(149,353)	(135,027)	(225,980)
Income from continuing operations										72,450		47,927		53,482		61,465		177,305	235,324	176,620
Net (loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax										0		0		(390)		0		0	(390)	2,186
Net income		66,417		47,541		15,893		47,454		72,450		47,927		53,092		61,465		177,305	234,934	178,806
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests		(171)		186		(273)		(9)		(96)		(479)		(497)		(90)		(267)	(1,162)	(6,337)
Net income attributable to common stockholders		$ 66,246		$ 47,727		$ 15,620		$ 47,445		$ 72,354		$ 47,448		$ 52,595		$ 61,375		$ 177,038	$ 233,772	$ 172,469
Basic earnings per share:
Net income attributable to common stockholders, basic		$ 0.35	[2]	$ 0.25	[2]	$ 0.08	[2]	$ 0.24	[2]	$ 0.37	[2]	$ 0.24	[2]	$ 0.26	[2]	$ 0.30	[2]	$ 0.92	$ 1.17	$ 0.82
Basic weighted average number of shares																		193,086	200,356	210,741
Diluted earnings per share:
Net income attributable to common stockholders, diluted		$ 0.34	[2]	$ 0.24	[2]	$ 0.08	[2]	$ 0.24	[2]	$ 0.36	[2]	$ 0.23	[2]	$ 0.25	[2]	$ 0.30	[2]	$ 0.90	$ 1.14	$ 0.81
Diluted weighted average number of shares																		196,042	204,450	214,200
Dividends declared per share	$ 0.13																	$ 0.51	$ 0.44	$ 0.34
[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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 177,305	$ 234,934	$ 178,806
Foreign currency translation adjustments	10,331	(53,283)	(32,096)
Reclassification of foreign currency translation adjustments to discontinued operations	0	0	3,114
Total comprehensive income	187,636	181,651	149,824
Total comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(270)	(1,129)	(6,382)
Total comprehensive income attributable to common stockholders	$ 187,366	$ 180,522	$ 143,442

Consolidated Balance Sheet

Consolidated Balance Sheet - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 194,986	$ 134,599
Receivables, net	98,455	90,462
Inventories	26,431	27,835
Other	34,524	47,155
Total current assets	354,396	300,051
Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments	1,817,445	1,760,297
Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments	2,487,720	2,318,167
Cemetery property	1,776,935	1,753,015
Property and equipment, net	1,827,587	1,846,722
Goodwill	1,799,081	1,796,340
Deferred charges and other assets	567,520	582,378
Cemetery perpetual care trust investments	1,407,465	1,319,427
Total assets	12,038,149	11,676,397
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	439,936	422,816
Current maturities of long-term debt	89,974	86,823
Income taxes payable	7,960	1,373
Total current liabilities	537,870	511,012
Long-term debt	3,196,616	3,037,605
Deferred preneed funeral revenue	581,280	557,897
Deferred preneed cemetery revenue	1,150,137	1,120,001
Deferred tax liability	454,638	470,584
Other liabilities	510,322	496,947
Deferred preneed receipts held in trust	3,103,796	2,973,386
Care trusts’ corpus	1,408,243	1,319,564
Commitments and contingencies (Note 11)
Equity:
Common stock, $1 per share par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 195,403,644 and 200,859,676 shares issued, respectively, and 189,405,244 and 195,772,876 shares outstanding, respectively	189,405	195,773
Capital in excess of par value	990,203	1,092,106
Accumulated deficit	(103,387)	(109,351)
Accumulated other comprehensive income	16,492	6,164
Total common stockholders’ equity	1,092,713	1,184,692
Noncontrolling interests	2,534	4,709
Total equity	1,095,247	1,189,401
Total liabilities and equity	$ 12,038,149	$ 11,676,397

Consolidated Balance Sheet (Par

Consolidated Balance Sheet (Parentheticals) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
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	195,403,644	200,859,676
Common stock, shares outstanding	189,405,244	195,772,876

Consolidated Statement of Cash

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 177,305	$ 234,934	$ 178,806
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Loss (income) from discontinued operations, net of tax	0	390	(2,186)
Losses on early extinguishment of debt, net	22,503	6,918	29,158
Premiums paid on early extinguishment of debt	(20,524)	(6,549)	(24,804)
Depreciation and amortization	147,233	141,456	140,002
Amortization of intangible assets	30,956	31,459	36,640
Amortization of cemetery property	66,745	62,407	60,439
Amortization of loan costs	5,826	9,434	8,825
Provision for doubtful accounts	10,776	6,083	7,376
Provision for deferred income taxes	7,490	18,048	129,671
Losses (gains) on divestitures and impairment charges, net	26,819	(6,522)	(116,613)
Share-based compensation	14,056	13,843	13,127
Excess tax benefits from share-based awards	(12,685)	(18,123)	(30,123)
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects from acquisitions and divestitures:
(Increase) decrease in receivables	14,198	464	(18,644)
Decrease (increase) in other assets	(17,855)	2,457	(11,013)
Increase (decrease) in payables and other liabilities	47,888	20,567	(12,038)
Effect of preneed funeral production and maturities:
Decrease in preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments	(17,506)	24,918	30,357
Increase (decrease) in deferred preneed funeral revenue	(9,329)	6,199	(23,069)
Decrease in deferred preneed receipts held in trust	41,607	(52,946)	(52,869)
Effect of cemetery production and maturities:
Increase in preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments	90,900	(73,038)	(43,964)
Increase in deferred preneed cemetery revenue	(25,446)	60,960	54,049
Increase (decrease) in deferred preneed receipts held in trust	(15,776)	(11,173)	(34,664)
Other	0	0	(108)
Net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations	463,595	472,186	318,355
Net cash used in operating activities from discontinued operations	0	0	(1,000)
Net cash provided by operating activities	463,595	472,186	317,355
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	(193,446)	(150,986)	(144,499)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(69,146)	(41,258)	(15,336)
Proceeds from divestitures and sales of property and equipment	41,310	16,772	424,383
Net withdrawals (deposits) of restricted funds and other	5,150	8,066	(12,225)
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities from continuing operations	(216,132)	(167,406)	252,323
Net cash provided by investing activities from discontinued operations	0	987	4,963
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities	(216,132)	(166,419)	257,286
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	1,060,000	446,250	755,000
Debt issuance costs	(5,232)	(6,025)	(10,500)
Payments of debt	(36,414)	(160,220)	(230,561)
Early extinguishment of debt	(875,110)	(197,377)	(762,764)
Principal payments on capital leases	(33,119)	(28,601)	(29,380)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	17,662	31,809	32,376
Excess tax benefits from share-based awards	12,685	18,123	30,123
Purchase of Company common stock	(227,928)	(345,261)	(242,874)
Payments of dividends	(98,418)	(87,570)	(71,517)
Purchase of noncontrolling interest	(1,961)	(2,075)	(15,000)
Bank overdrafts and other	(1,095)	(7,531)	7,130
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	(188,930)	(338,478)	(537,967)
Change in cash from discontinued operations	0	0	1,361
Effect of foreign currency	1,854	(10,025)	(2,284)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	60,387	(42,736)	35,751
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	134,599	177,335	141,584
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$ 194,986	$ 134,599	$ 177,335

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, 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
Purchase of Company common stock	(243,635)	0		13,127	0	0	0
Tax benefits related to stock-based awards	30,123	0	0	30,123	0	0	0
Purchase of noncontrolling interest	(15,000)	0	(11,537)	(67,796)	(164,302)	0	0
Acquisition		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	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
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward]
Comprehensive income	187,636	0	0	0	177,038	10,328	270
Dividends declared on common stock	(98,418)	0	0	(98,418)	0	0	0
Stock option exercises	17,662	2,108	0	15,554	0	0	0
Restricted stock awards, net of forfeitures	0	241	(1)	(240)	0	0	0
Employee share-based compensation earned	14,056	0	0	14,056	0	0	0
Purchase of Company common stock	(227,928)	0	(8,812)	(48,042)	(171,074)	0	0
Tax benefits related to stock-based awards	12,685	0	0	12,685	0	0	0
Purchase of noncontrolling interest	(1,961)			(364)			(2,325)
Noncontrolling interest payments	$ (120)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 120
Retirement of treasury shares	0	(7,901)	(7,901)	0	0	0	0
Other	$ 2,234	$ 96	$ 0	$ 2,138	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Balance at end of period at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 1,095,247	$ 195,403	$ (5,998)	$ 990,203	$ (103,387)	$ 16,492	$ 2,534

Consolidated Statement of Equi8

Consolidated Statement of Equity (Parentheticals) - $ / shares	2 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 13, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Dividends declared per share	$ 0.13	$ 0.51	$ 0.44	$ 0.34

Nature of Operations Level 1 (N

Nature of Operations Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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 other 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, travel protection, 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, 2016
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 to Prior Period Financial Statements and Adjustments 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. For the year 2016, we recorded in General and administrative expenses an out-of-period expense of $5.5 million for previously improperly capitalized acquisition costs. Such amounts are immaterial to both current and prior period financial statements. 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 revenue 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 revenue. 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 $66.7 million , $62.4 million , and $60.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , 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 $147.2 million , $141.5 million , and $140.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , 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, 2016 . 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 1.2% to 5.7% 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 2016 or 2015 . 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 revenue 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 2016 or 2015 . 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 2016 , we canceled 7.9 million shares of common stock held in our treasury. We canceled 8.0 million and 11.0 million shares of common stock held in our treasury in 2015 and 2014 , 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 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 revenue 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 revenue 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 revenue, 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. All deferred tax assets and liabilities, along with any related valuation allowances are classified as non-current on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. Recently Issued Accounting Standards Revenue Recognition In May 2014, the FASB issued "Revenue from Contracts with Customers," which replaces most existing revenue recognition guidance. During 2016, the FASB made several amendments to the new standard that clarified guidance on several matters, including principal vs. agent considerations, identifying performance obligations, sales taxes, and licensing. The new standard, as amended, requires that we recognize revenue in the amount to which we expect to be entitled for delivery of promised goods and services to our customers. The new standard will also result in enhanced revenue related disclosures, including any significant judgments and changes in judgments. Additionally, the new standard requires the deferral of incremental selling costs to the period in which the underlying revenue is recognized. 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 have not fully determined the impact on the new standard on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows. However, we believe the standard primarily impacts the manner in which we recognize certain nonrefundable up-front fees and incremental costs to acquire new preneed funeral trust contracts and preneed and atneed cemetery contracts (i.e., selling costs). The nonrefundable fees will be deferred and recognized as revenue when the underlying goods and services are delivered to the customer. The incremental selling costs will be deferred and amortized by specific identification to the delivery of the underlying goods and services. We will continue to expense costs to acquire new preneed funeral insurance contracts in the period incurred. The insurance contracts are not and will not be reflected in our Consolidated Balance Sheet because they do not represent assets or liabilities as we have no claim to the insurance proceeds until the contract is fulfilled and no obligation under the contract until the benefits are assigned to us after the time of need. Inventory In July 2015, the FASB amended "Inventory" 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 or 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 was effective for us on January 1, 2017 and adoption did not materially impact our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows. Financial Instruments In January 2016, the FASB amended "Financial Instruments" 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 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. In June 2016, the FASB amended "Financial Instruments" to provide financial statement users with more decision-useful information about the expected credit losses on debt instruments and other commitments to extend credit held by a reporting entity at each reporting date. This amendment replaces the incurred loss impairment methodology in the current standard with a methodology that reflects expected credit losses and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2020, and we are still evaluating the impact of adoption on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows. Leases In February 2016, the FASB amended "Leases" to increase transparency and comparability among organizations. Under the new standard, an entity will be required to recognize lease assets and liabilities on its balance sheet and disclose key information about leasing arrangements. In addition, the new standard offers specific accounting guidance for a lessee, a lessor, and sale and leaseback transactions. Lessees and lessors are required to disclose qualitative and quantitative information about leasing arrangements to enable a user of the financial statements to assess the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. This new standard will be effective for us on January 1, 2019. We are still evaluating the impact of adoption on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows. Stock Compensation In March 2016, the FASB amended "Stock Compensation" to simplify certain aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2017. If we had adopted this amendment for the year ended December 31, 2016 , Net cash provided by operating activities and Net cash used in financing activities would have both increased by $12.7 million and our Provision for income taxes would have decreased by $12.7 million . Cash Flow In August and November 2016, the FASB amended "Statement of Cash Flows" to clarify guidance on the classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments. Additionally, the guidance requires that the statement of cash flows reflect changes in restricted cash in addition to cash and cash equivalents. Amended guidance includes clarification on debt prepayment and extinguishment costs, contingent consideration in business combinations, proceeds from insurance claims, and premium payments on company-owned life insurance. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2018, and we are still evaluating the impact of adoption on our consolidated statement of cash flows. Goodwill In January 2017, the FASB amended "Goodwill" to simplify the subsequent measurement of goodwill. Amended guidance eliminates Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. Instead, impairment is defined as the amount by which the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, up to the total amount of goodwill. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2020, and we are evaluating the impact 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, 2016
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. 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 revenue 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 revenue 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 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Deposits $ 121,668 $ 121,109 $ 102,553 Withdrawals $ 157,549 $ 160,135 $ 131,352 Purchases of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 377,813 $ 453,092 $ 1,238,257 Sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 387,959 $ 458,236 $ 1,318,512 (1) The higher level of activity in 2014 was 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: 2016 2015 (In thousands) Trust investments, at market $ 1,152,752 $ 1,109,394 Cash and cash equivalents 122,517 134,642 Assets associated with businesses held for sale — (39 ) Insurance-backed fixed income securities 271,248 271,116 Trust investments 1,546,517 1,515,113 Receivables from customers 312,556 290,689 Unearned finance charge (12,562 ) (11,235 ) 1,846,511 1,794,567 Allowance for cancellation (29,066 ) (34,270 ) Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments $ 1,817,445 $ 1,760,297 The activity in Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments for the years ended December 31 was as follows: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments $ 1,760,297 $ 1,843,023 $ 1,870,243 Net preneed contract sales 296,896 283,927 247,994 Cash receipts from customers, net of refunds (246,436 ) (234,413 ) (211,830 ) Deposits to trust 121,668 121,109 102,553 Acquisitions (divestitures) of businesses, net 3,560 1,400 (19,203 ) Net undistributed investment earnings (losses) (1) 65,954 (38,510 ) 22,480 Maturities and distributed earnings (193,604 ) (200,635 ) (162,059 ) Change in cancellation allowance 5,295 2,787 7,644 Effect of foreign currency and other 3,815 (18,391 ) (14,799 ) Ending balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments $ 1,817,445 $ 1,760,297 $ 1,843,023 (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, 2016 and 2015 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, 2016 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 75,245 $ 317 $ (557 ) $ 75,005 Canadian government 2 55,752 272 (42 ) 55,982 Corporate 2 12,702 177 (92 ) 12,787 Residential mortgage-backed 2 29 1 — 30 Asset-backed 2 58 — (3 ) 55 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 1,428 81 (39 ) 1,470 Common stock: United States 1 334,854 49,785 (11,525 ) 373,114 Canada 1 11,853 2,592 (263 ) 14,182 Other international 1 25,761 1,824 (3,167 ) 24,418 Mutual funds: Equity 1 313,132 7,780 (26,842 ) 294,070 Fixed income 1 92,760 1,344 (7,368 ) 86,736 Other 3 4,079 1,214 (17 ) 5,276 Trust investments, at fair value 927,653 65,387 (49,915 ) 943,125 Fixed income commingled funds 168,959 3,177 (1,167 ) 170,969 Private equity 40,892 2,956 (5,190 ) 38,658 Trust investments, at net asset value 209,851 6,133 (6,357 ) 209,627 Trust investments, at market $ 1,137,504 $ 71,520 $ (56,272 ) $ 1,152,752 December 31, 2015 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 64,140 $ 89 $ (1,270 ) $ 62,959 Canadian government 2 56,975 323 (55 ) 57,243 Corporate 2 18,983 235 (284 ) 18,934 Residential mortgage-backed 2 1,299 29 (22 ) 1,306 Asset-backed 2 5 — — 5 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 1,951 41 (158 ) 1,834 Common stock: United States 1 344,544 30,885 (19,149 ) 356,280 Canada 1 11,882 2,651 (1,077 ) 13,456 Other international 1 32,193 2,636 (3,907 ) 30,922 Mutual funds: Equity 1 324,231 1,263 (43,975 ) 281,519 Fixed income 1 155,893 154 (13,092 ) 142,955 Other 3 3,687 1,069 — 4,756 Trust investments, at fair value 1,015,783 39,375 (82,989 ) 972,169 Fixed income commingled funds 102,063 228 (1,103 ) 101,188 Private equity 38,724 3,780 (6,467 ) 36,037 Trust investments, at net asset value 140,787 4,008 (7,570 ) 137,225 Trust investments, at market $ 1,156,570 $ 43,383 $ (90,559 ) $ 1,109,394 Valuation policies and procedures are determined by our Trust Services department, which reports to our Chief Financial Officer. Additionally, valuations are reviewed quarterly by the Investment Committee of the Board of Directors. 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. These securities are classified as Level 2 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. The valuation of other investments requires management judgment due to the absence of quoted market prices, inherent lack of liquidity, and the long-term nature of such assets. These securities are classified as Level 3 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. Fixed income commingled funds and private equity investments are measured at net asset value. Fixed income commingled funds are redeemable for net asset value with two weeks' notice. Our private equity 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, due to the nature of the investments in this category, 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. As of December 31, 2016 , our unfunded commitment for our private equity and other investments was $31.8 million which, if called, would be funded by the assets of the trusts. 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 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Fair value, beginning balance at January 1 $ 4,756 $ 4,891 $ 801 Net unrealized gains (losses) included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (1) 478 (167 ) 876 Purchases 89 32 3,214 Sales (47 ) — — Fair value, ending balance at December 31 $ 5,276 $ 4,756 $ 4,891 (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 . Maturity dates of our fixed income securities range from 2017 to 2041 . Maturities of fixed income securities at December 31, 2016 are estimated as follows: Fair Value (In thousands) Due in one year or less $ 76,744 Due in one to five years 27,298 Due in five to ten years 31,374 Thereafter 8,443 $ 143,859 Earnings from all our funeral merchandise and service trust investments are recognized in funeral revenue when merchandise is delivered or a service is performed. Fees charged by our wholly-owned registered investment advisor are also included in current revenue 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 revenue. Recognized earnings (realized and unrealized) related to our funeral merchandise and service trust investments were $49.9 million , $52.9 million , and $62.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , 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 . 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, 2016 and 2015 , are shown in the following tables. December 31, 2016 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 $ 25,996 $ (557 ) $ — $ — $ 25,996 $ (557 ) Canadian government 2,847 (30 ) 191 (12 ) 3,038 (42 ) Corporate 1,710 (15 ) 3,560 (77 ) 5,270 (92 ) Asset-backed — — 55 (3 ) 55 (3 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 125 (17 ) 98 (22 ) 223 (39 ) Common stock: United States 87,059 (8,149 ) 14,939 (3,376 ) 101,998 (11,525 ) Canada 2,832 (254 ) 482 (9 ) 3,314 (263 ) Other international 5,390 (1,301 ) 7,368 (1,866 ) 12,758 (3,167 ) Mutual funds: Equity 108,109 (5,080 ) 127,273 (21,762 ) 235,382 (26,842 ) Fixed income 34,120 (817 ) 31,654 (6,551 ) 65,774 (7,368 ) Other 26 (2 ) 1,160 (15 ) 1,186 (17 ) Trust investments, at fair value 268,214 (16,222 ) 186,780 (33,693 ) 454,994 (49,915 ) Fixed income commingled funds 75,041 (687 ) 17,656 (480 ) 92,697 (1,167 ) Private equity 693 (481 ) 22,812 (4,709 ) 23,505 (5,190 ) Trust investments, at net asset value 75,734 (1,168 ) 40,468 (5,189 ) 116,202 (6,357 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 343,948 $ (17,390 ) $ 227,248 $ (38,882 ) $ 571,196 $ (56,272 ) 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 $ 36,113 $ (1,268 ) $ 141 $ (2 ) $ 36,254 $ (1,270 ) Canadian government 209 (7 ) 971 (48 ) 1,180 (55 ) Corporate 4,618 (156 ) 3,880 (128 ) 8,498 (284 ) Residential mortgage-backed 378 (6 ) 132 (16 ) 510 (22 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 449 (60 ) 42 (98 ) 491 (158 ) Common stock: United States 128,925 (16,448 ) 14,537 (2,701 ) 143,462 (19,149 ) Canada 1,941 (355 ) 1,051 (722 ) 2,992 (1,077 ) Other international 9,473 (1,638 ) 6,154 (2,269 ) 15,627 (3,907 ) Mutual funds: Equity 186,016 (23,385 ) 79,892 (20,590 ) 265,908 (43,975 ) Fixed income 109,154 (5,052 ) 27,061 (8,040 ) 136,215 (13,092 ) Trust investments, at fair value 477,276 (48,375 ) 133,861 (34,614 ) 611,137 (82,989 ) Fixed income commingled funds 70,964 (457 ) 15,243 (646 ) 86,207 (1,103 ) Private equity — — 18,714 (6,467 ) 18,714 (6,467 ) Trust investments, at net asset value 70,964 (457 ) 33,957 (7,113 ) 104,921 (7,570 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 548,240 $ (48,832 ) $ 167,818 $ (41,727 ) $ 716,058 $ (90,559 ) Deferred preneed funeral revenue At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , Deferred preneed funeral revenue , net of allowance for cancellation, represents future funeral revenue, including distributed trust investment earnings associated with unperformed trust-funded preneed funeral contracts that are not held in trust accounts. Deferred preneed funeral revenue is recognized in current funeral revenue when merchandise is delivered or the service is performed. Future funeral revenue 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 revenue for the years ended December 31: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenue $ 557,897 $ 540,164 $ 551,948 Net preneed contract sales 251,134 232,628 198,195 Acquisitions (divestitures) of businesses, net 2,170 (2,895 ) (21,639 ) Net investment earnings (losses) (1) 66,656 (37,208 ) 24,256 Recognized deferred preneed revenue (277,248 ) (276,359 ) (258,534 ) Change in cancellation allowance 8,411 11,675 21,272 Change in deferred preneed receipts held in trust (28,506 ) 90,351 26,131 Effect of foreign currency and other 766 (459 ) (1,465 ) Ending balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenue $ 581,280 $ 557,897 $ 540,164 (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 revenue) are based on a percentage per contract sold and are recognized as funeral revenue when the insurance purchase transaction between the customer and third-party insurance provider is completed. GA revenue recognized in 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 was $135.8 million , $137.0 million , and $123.0 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 revenue as we perform these funerals.

Preneed Cemetery Activities Lev

Preneed Cemetery Activities Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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. 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 revenue 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 revenue 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 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Deposits $ 158,114 $ 153,252 $ 129,581 Withdrawals $ 144,308 $ 163,732 $ 150,064 Purchases of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 656,452 $ 625,648 $ 1,786,800 Sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 631,440 $ 628,484 $ 1,842,417 (1) The higher level of activity in 2014 was 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: 2016 2015 (In thousands) Trust investments, at market $ 1,435,083 $ 1,343,916 Cash and cash equivalents 123,146 118,583 Trust investments 1,558,229 1,462,499 Receivables from customers 1,038,592 958,503 Unearned finance charges (33,427 ) (31,332 ) 2,563,394 2,389,670 Allowance for cancellation (75,674 ) (71,503 ) Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments $ 2,487,720 $ 2,318,167 The activity in Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments for the years ended December 31 was as follows: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Preneed cemetery receivables and trust investments $ 2,318,167 $ 2,306,669 $ 2,292,348 Net preneed contract sales 862,298 799,497 688,336 Cash receipts from customers, net of refunds (784,267 ) (716,686 ) (615,489 ) Deposits to trust 158,114 153,252 129,581 (Divestitures) acquisitions of businesses, net (2,083 ) 4,404 (10,898 ) Net undistributed investment earnings (losses) (1) 79,557 (42,189 ) (18,038 ) Maturities, deliveries, and associated earnings (144,308 ) (163,732 ) (150,064 ) Change in cancellation allowance (1,966 ) (2,046 ) 843 Effect of foreign currency and other 2,208 (21,002 ) (9,950 ) Ending balance — Preneed cemetery receivables and trust investments $ 2,487,720 $ 2,318,167 $ 2,306,669 (1) Includes both realized and unrealized investment earnings. The cost and market values associated with our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments recorded at fair value at December 31, 2016 and 2015 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, 2016 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 70,070 $ 567 $ (281 ) $ 70,356 Canadian government 2 9,109 49 (66 ) 9,092 Corporate 2 1,596 18 (34 ) 1,580 Asset-backed 2 170 13 — 183 Equity securities: Common stock: United States 1 539,445 72,682 (21,680 ) 590,447 Canada 1 9,027 4,807 (84 ) 13,750 Other international 1 42,870 3,023 (5,229 ) 40,664 Mutual funds: Equity 1 356,079 7,812 (29,603 ) 334,288 Fixed income 1 94,383 1,535 (9,854 ) 86,064 Trust investments, at fair value 1,122,749 90,506 (66,831 ) 1,146,424 Fixed income commingled funds 245,813 5,347 (1,681 ) 249,479 Private equity 37,881 4,616 (3,317 ) 39,180 Trust investments, at net asset value 283,694 9,963 (4,998 ) 288,659 Trust investments, at market $ 1,406,443 $ 100,469 $ (71,829 ) $ 1,435,083 December 31, 2015 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 69,727 $ 25 $ (1,437 ) $ 68,315 Canadian government 2 9,725 183 (99 ) 9,809 Corporate 2 5,115 26 (118 ) 5,023 Residential mortgage-backed 2 129 3 (3 ) 129 Asset-backed 2 170 15 — 185 Equity securities: Common stock: United States 1 531,885 44,181 (32,037 ) 544,029 Canada 1 8,992 3,858 (891 ) 11,959 Other international 1 50,041 4,207 (5,799 ) 48,449 Mutual funds: Equity 1 356,712 1,620 (49,642 ) 308,690 Fixed income 1 203,932 92 (18,527 ) 185,497 Other 3 1,382 122 — 1,504 Trust investments, at fair value 1,237,810 54,332 (108,553 ) 1,183,589 Fixed income commingled funds 124,103 — (639 ) 123,464 Private equity 35,411 5,954 (4,502 ) 36,863 Trust investments, at net asset value 159,514 5,954 (5,141 ) 160,327 Trust investments, at market $ 1,397,324 $ 60,286 $ (113,694 ) $ 1,343,916 Valuation policies and procedures are determined by our Trust Services department, which reports to our Chief Financial Officer. Additionally, valuations are reviewed quarterly by the Investment Committee of the Board of Directors. 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 other investments requires management judgment due to the absence of quoted market prices, inherent lack of liquidity, and the long-term nature of such assets. These securities are classified as Level 3 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. Fixed income commingled funds and private equity investments are measured at net asset value. Fixed income commingled funds are redeemable for net asset value with two weeks' notice. Our private equity 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, due to the nature of the investments in this category, 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. As of December 31, 2016 , our unfunded commitment for our private equity and other investments was $32.7 million which, if called, would be funded by the assets of the trusts. 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 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Fair value, beginning balance at January 1 $ 1,504 $ 203 $ — Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (1) — (27 ) 7 Net realized losses included in Other (expense) income, net (2) (212 ) — — Purchases — 1,328 196 Sales (1,292 ) — — Fair value, ending balance at December 31 $ — $ 1,504 $ 203 (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 (expense) income, net for our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Other (expense) income, 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 2017 to 2041 . Maturities of fixed income securities (excluding mutual funds) at December 31, 2016 are estimated as follows: Fair Value (In thousands) Due in one year or less $ 7,154 Due in one to five years 26,237 Due in five to ten years 34,244 Thereafter 13,576 $ 81,211 Earnings from all our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are recognized in cemetery revenue when merchandise is delivered or a service is performed. Fees charged by our wholly-owned registered investment advisor are also included in current revenue 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 revenue. Recognized earnings (realized and unrealized) related to our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments were $44.5 million , $45.5 million , and $48.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , 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 Preneed cemetery 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 . 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, 2016 and 2015 , are shown in the following tables: December 31, 2016 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 $ 15,413 $ (281 ) $ — $ — $ 15,413 $ (281 ) Canadian government — — 1,192 (66 ) 1,192 (66 ) Corporate — — 736 (34 ) 736 (34 ) Equity securities: Common stock: United States 149,530 (13,680 ) 23,010 (8,000 ) 172,540 (21,680 ) Canada 408 (82 ) 38 (2 ) 446 (84 ) Other international 9,707 (2,330 ) 11,442 (2,899 ) 21,149 (5,229 ) Mutual funds: Equity 125,728 (4,728 ) 146,332 (24,875 ) 272,060 (29,603 ) Fixed income 26,566 (446 ) 45,337 (9,408 ) 71,903 (9,854 ) Trust investments, at fair value 327,352 (21,547 ) 228,087 (45,284 ) 555,439 (66,831 ) Fixed income commingled funds 133,164 (1,681 ) — — 133,164 (1,681 ) Private equity 558 (1 ) 16,769 (3,316 ) 17,327 (3,317 ) Trust investments, at net asset value 133,722 (1,682 ) 16,769 (3,316 ) 150,491 (4,998 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 461,074 $ (23,229 ) $ 244,856 $ (48,600 ) $ 705,930 $ (71,829 ) 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 $ 52,509 $ (1,435 ) $ 21 $ (2 ) $ 52,530 $ (1,437 ) Canadian government 1,190 (34 ) 841 (65 ) 2,031 (99 ) Corporate 1,764 (22 ) 2,347 (96 ) 4,111 (118 ) Residential mortgage-backed 42 (1 ) 18 (2 ) 60 (3 ) Equity securities: Common stock: United States 198,755 (26,038 ) 21,355 (5,999 ) 220,110 (32,037 ) Canada 473 (6 ) 1,430 (885 ) 1,903 (891 ) Other international 15,560 (2,507 ) 9,412 (3,292 ) 24,972 (5,799 ) Mutual funds: Equity 207,253 (25,991 ) 86,720 (23,651 ) 293,973 (49,642 ) Fixed income 139,684 (6,323 ) 44,550 (12,204 ) 184,234 (18,527 ) Trust investments, at fair value 617,230 (62,357 ) 166,694 (46,196 ) 783,924 (108,553 ) Fixed income commingled funds 123,464 (639 ) — — 123,464 (639 ) Private equity — — 9,526 (4,502 ) 9,526 (4,502 ) Trust investments, at net asset value 123,464 (639 ) 9,526 (4,502 ) 132,990 (5,141 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 740,694 $ (62,996 ) $ 176,220 $ (50,698 ) $ 916,914 $ (113,694 ) Deferred preneed cemetery revenue At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , Deferred preneed cemetery revenue , net of allowance for cancellation, represents future cemetery revenue, including distributed trust investment earnings associated with unperformed trust-funded preneed cemetery contracts that are not held in trust accounts. Deferred preneed cemetery revenue is recognized in current cemetery revenue when merchandise is delivered or the service is performed. Future cemetery revenue 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 revenue for the years ended December 31 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenue $ 1,120,001 $ 1,062,381 $ 1,016,275 Net preneed and atneed deferred sales 596,714 561,899 531,768 (Divestitures) acquisitions of businesses, net (1,977 ) 2,357 (25,071 ) Net investment earnings (losses) (1) 79,447 (42,806 ) (22,378 ) Recognized deferred preneed and atneed revenue (546,071 ) (504,064 ) (493,739 ) Change in cancellation allowance (3,015 ) (8,048 ) 3,833 Change in deferred preneed receipts held in trust (96,417 ) 52,050 55,636 Effect of foreign currency and other 1,455 (3,768 ) (3,943 ) Ending balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenue $ 1,150,137 $ 1,120,001 $ 1,062,381 (1) Includes both realized and unrealized investment earnings (losses).

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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. 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 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Deposits $ 41,450 $ 38,883 $ 42,220 Withdrawals $ 48,522 $ 40,447 $ 46,981 Purchases of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 428,635 $ 247,658 $ 1,306,314 Sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 374,329 $ 175,057 $ 1,396,669 (1) The higher level of activity in 2014 was 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: 2016 2015 (In thousands) Trust investments, at market $ 1,349,073 $ 1,232,592 Cash and cash equivalents 58,392 86,835 Cemetery perpetual care trust investments $ 1,407,465 $ 1,319,427 The cost and market values associated with our cemetery perpetual care trust investments recorded at fair value at December 31, 2016 and 2015 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, 2016 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: Canadian government 2 $ 14,280 $ 88 $ (114 ) $ 14,254 Corporate 2 4,636 100 (101 ) 4,635 Residential mortgage-backed 2 304 — (1 ) 303 Asset-backed 2 220 3 (28 ) 195 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 1,479 2 (117 ) 1,364 Common stock: United States 1 233,643 28,679 (2,337 ) 259,985 Canada 1 4,828 2,631 (108 ) 7,351 Other international 1 14,607 148 (2,236 ) 12,519 Mutual funds: Equity 1 18,909 4,370 (412 ) 22,867 Fixed income 1 688,472 3,324 (28,997 ) 662,799 Other 3 633 1,254 — 1,887 Trust investments, at fair value 982,011 40,599 (34,451 ) 988,159 Fixed income commingled funds 277,662 — (9,386 ) 268,276 Private equity 97,108 2,240 (6,710 ) 92,638 Trust investments, at net asset value 374,770 2,240 (16,096 ) 360,914 Trust investments, at market $ 1,356,781 $ 42,839 $ (50,547 ) $ 1,349,073 December 31, 2015 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 650 $ 20 $ (7 ) $ 663 Canadian government 2 15,412 321 (162 ) 15,571 Corporate 2 12,490 149 (284 ) 12,355 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 1 230,854 15,224 (10,898 ) 235,180 Canada 1 5,460 2,112 (606 ) 6,966 Other international 1 14,793 160 (2,390 ) 12,563 Mutual funds: Equity 1 21,783 3,138 (1,850 ) 23,071 Fixed income 1 890,025 530 (63,913 ) 826,642 Other 3 645 1,257 — 1,902 Trust investments, at fair value 1,199,556 22,984 (80,309 ) 1,142,231 Fixed income commingled funds 20,616 — (178 ) 20,438 Private equity 75,613 2,406 (8,096 ) 69,923 Trust investments, at net asset value 96,229 2,406 (8,274 ) 90,361 Trust investments, at market $ 1,295,785 $ 25,390 $ (88,583 ) $ 1,232,592 Valuation policies and procedures are determined by our Trust Services department, which reports to our Chief Financial Officer. Additionally, valuations are reviewed quarterly by the Investment Committee of the Board of Directors. 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 other investments requires management judgment due to the absence of quoted market prices, inherent lack of liquidity, and the long-term nature of such assets. These securities are classified as Level 3 investments pursuant to the fair value measurements hierarchy. Fixed income commingled funds and private equity investments are measured at net asset value. Fixed income commingled funds are redeemable for net asset value with two weeks' notice. Our private equity 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, due to the nature of the investments in this category, 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. As of December 31, 2016 , our unfunded commitment for our private equity and other investments was $31.0 million which, if called, would be funded by the assets of the trusts. 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 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Fair value, beginning balance at January 1 $ 1,902 $ 1,556 $ 1,599 Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (1) (15 ) 346 (26 ) Sales — — (17 ) Fair value, ending balance at December 31 $ 1,887 $ 1,902 $ 1,556 (1) All unrealized (losses) gains 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 . Maturity dates of our fixed income securities range from 2017 to 2040 . Maturities of fixed income securities at December 31, 2016 are estimated as follows: Fair Value (In thousands) Due in one year or less $ 1,834 Due in one to five years 17,283 Due in five to ten years 69 Thereafter 201 $ 19,387 Distributable earnings from these cemetery perpetual care trust investments are recognized in current cemetery revenue to the extent we incur qualifying cemetery maintenance costs. Fees charged by our wholly-owned registered investment advisor are also included in current revenue in the period in which they are earned. Recognized earnings related to these cemetery perpetual care trust investments were $67.6 million , $59.6 million , and $72.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , 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 . 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, 2016 and 2015 , are shown in the following table: December 31, 2016 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: Canadian government $ 66 $ (1 ) $ 1,961 $ (113 ) $ 2,027 $ (114 ) Corporate 397 (7 ) 1,866 (94 ) 2,263 (101 ) Residential mortgage-backed 303 (1 ) — — 303 (1 ) Asset-backed 28 (22 ) 101 (6 ) 129 (28 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 846 (36 ) 417 (81 ) 1,263 (117 ) Common stock: United States 34,844 (1,339 ) 12,974 (998 ) 47,818 (2,337 ) Canada 78 (47 ) 558 (61 ) 636 (108 ) Other international 4,177 (508 ) 5,715 (1,728 ) 9,892 (2,236 ) Mutual funds: Equity 877 (17 ) 2,899 (395 ) 3,776 (412 ) Fixed income 263,231 (4,678 ) 348,623 (24,319 ) 611,854 (28,997 ) Trust investments, at fair value 304,847 (6,656 ) 375,114 (27,795 ) 679,961 (34,451 ) Fixed income commingled funds 265,345 (9,346 ) 2,931 (40 ) 268,276 (9,386 ) Private equity 21,426 (268 ) 33,519 (6,442 ) 54,945 (6,710 ) Trust investments, at net asset value 286,771 (9,614 ) 36,450 (6,482 ) 323,221 (16,096 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 591,618 $ (16,270 ) $ 411,564 $ (34,277 ) $ 1,003,182 $ (50,547 ) 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 $ 364 $ (6 ) $ 35 $ (1 ) $ 399 $ (7 ) Canadian government 1,569 (60 ) 1,371 (102 ) 2,940 (162 ) Corporate 4,693 (134 ) 4,147 (150 ) 8,840 (284 ) Residential mortgage-backed 303 (3 ) 117 (6 ) 420 (9 ) Asset-backed 146 (12 ) 360 (19 ) 506 (31 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 4,029 (159 ) — — 4,029 (159 ) Common stock: United States 81,564 (7,793 ) 14,900 (3,105 ) 96,464 (10,898 ) Canada 622 (31 ) 1,026 (575 ) 1,648 (606 ) Other international 8,735 (941 ) 2,347 (1,449 ) 11,082 (2,390 ) Mutual funds: Equity 4,580 (606 ) 1,258 (1,244 ) 5,838 (1,850 ) Fixed income 519,993 (18,205 ) 294,309 (45,708 ) 814,302 (63,913 ) Trust investments, at fair value 626,598 (27,950 ) 319,870 (52,359 ) 946,468 (80,309 ) Fixed income commingled funds 20,438 (178 ) — — 20,438 (178 ) Private equity 13,139 (75 ) 30,438 (8,021 ) 43,577 (8,096 ) Trust investments, at net asset value 33,577 (253 ) 30,438 (8,021 ) 64,015 (8,274 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 660,175 $ (28,203 ) $ 350,308 $ (60,380 ) $ 1,010,483 $ (88,583 )

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, 2016
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, 2016 and 2015 are detailed below. December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Preneed Funeral Preneed Cemetery Total Preneed Funeral Preneed Cemetery Total (In thousands) (In thousands) Trust investments $ 1,546,517 $ 1,558,229 $ 3,104,746 $ 1,515,113 $ 1,462,499 $ 2,977,612 Accrued trust operating payables and other (589 ) (361 ) (950 ) (1,381 ) (2,845 ) (4,226 ) Deferred preneed receipts held in trust $ 1,545,928 $ 1,557,868 $ 3,103,796 $ 1,513,732 $ 1,459,654 $ 2,973,386 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 are detailed below. December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (In thousands) Cemetery perpetual care trust investments $ 1,407,465 $ 1,319,427 Accrued trust operating payables and other 778 137 Care trusts’ corpus $ 1,408,243 $ 1,319,564 Other (expense) income, net The components of Other (expense) income, net in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 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, 2016 Funeral Trusts Cemetery Trusts Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Other, Net Total (In thousands) Realized gains $ 38,704 $ 53,253 $ 8,327 $ — $ 100,284 Realized losses (46,432 ) (60,795 ) (6,579 ) — (113,806 ) Impairment charges (4,625 ) (5,872 ) (1,360 ) — (11,857 ) Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income 20,299 17,428 56,594 — 94,321 Trust expenses and income taxes (20,190 ) (22,137 ) (22,801 ) — (65,128 ) Net trust investment (losses) income (12,244 ) (18,123 ) 34,181 — 3,814 Reclassification to deferred preneed receipts held in trust and care trusts’ corpus 12,244 18,123 (34,181 ) — (3,814 ) Other expense, net — — — (631 ) (631 ) Total other expense, net $ — $ — $ — $ (631 ) $ (631 ) 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 — — — (132 ) (132 ) Total other expense, net $ — $ — $ — $ (132 ) $ (132 ) 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

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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): 2016 2015 Funeral Cemetery Total Funeral Cemetery Total (In thousands) Balance as of January 1 $ 1,490,502 $ 305,838 $ 1,796,340 $ 1,510,879 $ 299,974 $ 1,810,853 Increase (decrease) in goodwill related to acquisitions 26,809 (151 ) 26,658 6,460 6,201 12,661 Reduction of goodwill related to divestitures (26,554 ) (270 ) (26,824 ) (8,908 ) (262 ) (9,170 ) Effect of foreign currency 2,898 9 2,907 (17,929 ) (75 ) (18,004 ) Activity 3,153 (412 ) 2,741 (20,377 ) 5,864 (14,513 ) Balance as of December 31 $ 1,493,655 $ 305,426 $ 1,799,081 $ 1,490,502 $ 305,838 $ 1,796,340 The components of intangible assets at December 31 were as follows: Useful Life Minimum Maximum 2016 2015 (Years) (In thousands) Amortizing intangibles: Covenants-not-to-compete 2 - 20 $ 211,549 $ 206,822 Customer relationships 10 - 20 146,876 154,364 Tradenames 5 - 5 9,150 12,750 Other 5 - 40 11,927 11,927 379,502 385,863 Less: Accumulated amortization 268,061 257,157 Amortizing intangibles, net 111,441 128,706 Non-amortizing intangibles: Tradenames Indefinite 245,984 230,659 Other Indefinite 10,640 10,640 Non-amortizing intangibles 256,624 241,299 Intangible assets, net $ 368,065 $ 370,005 As part of our annual recoverability-testing process during 2016, we recognized $1.2 million of impairment on four tradenames. Amortization expense for intangible assets was $31.0 million , $31.5 million , and $36.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , 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, 2016 (in thousands): 2017 $ 11,718 2018 $ 10,961 2019 $ 7,711 2020 $ 6,613 2021 $ 6,504

Income Taxes Level 1 (Notes)

Income Taxes Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) United States $ 287,946 $ 331,622 $ 360,800 Foreign 38,712 38,729 41,800 $ 326,658 $ 370,351 $ 402,600 Income tax provision (benefit) for the years ended December 31 consisted of the following: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Current: United States $ 113,629 $ 94,502 $ 67,511 Foreign 12,084 9,270 10,859 State 16,150 13,207 17,939 Total current income taxes 141,863 116,979 96,309 Deferred: United States $ (19,496 ) $ 15,918 $ 108,514 Foreign 22,708 (878 ) (653 ) State 4,278 3,008 21,810 Total deferred income taxes 7,490 18,048 129,671 Total income taxes $ 149,353 $ 135,027 $ 225,980 We made income tax payments of $115.0 million , $105.4 million , and $106.3 million in 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , respectively, and received refunds of $2.4 million , $1.9 million , and $0.6 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: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Computed tax provision at the applicable federal statutory income tax rate $ 114,331 $ 129,623 $ 140,910 State and local taxes, net of federal income tax benefits 13,279 10,542 25,736 Foreign jurisdiction differences (2,557 ) (5,183 ) (4,424 ) Permanent differences associated with divestitures 9,267 2,909 61,892 Changes in uncertain tax positions 5,669 4,046 4,624 Foreign valuation allowance, net of federal income tax benefits 15,850 — — Other (6,486 ) (6,910 ) (2,758 ) Provision for income taxes $ 149,353 $ 135,027 $ 225,980 Total consolidated effective tax rate 45.7 % 36.5 % 56.1 % The higher effective tax rate for the twelve months ended December 31, 2016 was a result of a valuation allowance recorded against foreign net deferred tax assets for which a future net benefit may not be realized, and non-deductible goodwill resulting from gains on divestitures. The higher effective tax rate for the twelve month ended December 31, 2014 was due primarily to the non-deductible goodwill resulting from gains on required divestitures associated with the Stewart acquisition. 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 carryforwards that give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31 consisted of the following: 2016 2015 (In thousands) Inventories and cemetery property $ (335,795 ) $ (338,143 ) Property and equipment (149,450 ) (168,265 ) Intangibles (294,251 ) (302,217 ) Other (6,980 ) (12,047 ) Deferred tax liabilities (786,476 ) (820,672 ) Loss and tax credit carryforwards 157,795 171,725 Deferred revenue on preneed funeral and cemetery contracts 223,174 226,483 Accrued liabilities 84,230 102,351 Deferred tax assets 465,199 500,559 Less: Valuation allowance (132,500 ) (126,654 ) Net deferred income tax liability $ (453,777 ) $ (446,767 ) Deferred tax assets and deferred income tax liabilities are recognized in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31 as follows: 2016 2015 (In thousands) Non-current deferred tax assets $ 861 $ 23,817 Non-current deferred tax liabilities (454,638 ) (470,584 ) Net deferred income tax liability $ (453,777 ) $ (446,767 ) In addition to the loss and tax credit carryforward 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 share-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, 2016, 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 $34.0 million or $12.7 million , net of tax. At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , U.S. income taxes had not been provided on $308.6 million and $259.8 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, 2014 to December 31, 2016 (in thousands): Federal, State and Foreign Tax (In thousands) 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 Reduction to tax positions related to prior years (12,370 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 182,545 Reductions to tax positions related to prior years (4,219 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 178,326 Our total unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect our effective tax rates were $161.8 million , $157.2 million , and $154.8 million as of December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , respectively. We include potential accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within our income tax provision account. We have accrued $57.3 million , $51.6 million , and $47.6 million for the payment of interest, net of tax benefits, and penalties as of December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , respectively. We recognized an increase of interest and penalties of $5.7 million , $4.0 million , and $3.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , 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. We consider the United States to be our most significant jurisdiction; however, all 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 have reached an agreement in principle with the IRS to resolve the issues under audit with respect to tax years 1999 through 2005 which cleared the Joint Committee on Taxation without change on February 7, 2017. Final resolution with the IRS is subject to, among other things, the execution of certain agreements and the closing of the case. There can be no assurance that the resolution will be finalized on the terms currently contemplated, or at all. Additionally, SCI and Subsidiaries received a letter of no change to its federal tax liability for the tax years 2008-2010, and its tax years 2006-2007 remain under audit as a result of carryback claims. Our Canadian affiliate, Service Corporation International Canada ULC, concluded the audit of its Canadian income tax returns during 2016 for the years 2010-2012 with no material impact. Furthermore, we are under audit by various state jurisdictions for years 2000 through 2015. It is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits could significantly decrease over the next 12 months as a result of the agreement in principle reached with the IRS on the audit with respect to tax years 1999 through 2005. However, due to the uncertainty regarding the timing and amount of the final resolution on this specific audit and possible outcomes on the other outstanding audits, a current estimate of the range of decrease that may occur within the next 12 months cannot be made. Various subsidiaries have state and foreign loss carryforwards in the aggregate of $3.8 billion with expiration dates through 2032 . Such loss carryforwards will expire as follows: Federal State Foreign Total (In thousands) 2017 $ — $ 241,619 $ — $ 241,619 2018 — 111,084 — 111,084 2019 — 143,491 — 143,491 2020 200 183,071 — 183,271 Thereafter 1,900 3,111,526 6,632 3,120,058 Total $ 2,100 $ 3,790,791 $ 6,632 $ 3,799,523 In addition to the above loss carryforwards, we have $52.0 million of foreign losses that have an indefinite expiration. In assessing the usefulness of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the net deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of net deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Upon reviewing the 2016 foreign operational results as of the fourth quarter, management concluded a foreign valuation allowance was necessary as it was not more likely than not that certain foreign net deferred tax assets would be realized based on all available evidence as of December 31, 2016. During 2016, an additional $ 15.9 million foreign valuation allowance has been recorded which was partially offset by changes in the existing foreign valuation allowances due to fluctuations in the currency exchange rate. Also, in 2016, the state valuation allowance decreased by $ 9.6 million due to state net operating loss expirations. These valuation allowances can be affected in future periods by changes in tax laws, changes to statutory tax rates and changes in estimates of future taxable income. At December 31, 2016 , our loss and tax credit carryforward 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 carryforwards $ 914 $ 136,462 $ 20,419 $ 157,795 Valuation allowance $ — $ 101,417 $ 31,083 $ 132,500

Debt Level 1 (Notes)

Debt Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	Debt Debt as of December 31 was as follows: 2016 2015 (In thousands) 7.0% Senior Notes due June 2017 $ — $ 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 850,000 850,000 7.5% Senior Notes due April 2027 200,000 200,000 Term Loan due July 2018 — 310,000 Bank Credit Facility due July 2018 — 270,000 Term Loan due March 2021 673,750 — Bank Credit Facility due March 2021 350,000 — Obligations under capital leases 208,758 204,246 Mortgage notes and other debt, maturities through 2050 3,753 4,037 Unamortized premiums (discounts) and other, net 8,313 8,636 Unamortized debt issuance costs (32,984 ) (42,491 ) Total debt 3,286,590 3,124,428 Less: Current maturities of long-term debt (89,974 ) (86,823 ) Total long-term debt $ 3,196,616 $ 3,037,605 Current maturities of debt at December 31, 2016 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 4.68% and 5.18% at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Approximately 63% and 76% of our total debt had a fixed interest rate at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The following table summarizes the aggregate maturities of our debt for the five years subsequent to December 31, 2016 and thereafter, excluding unamortized premiums (discounts) and debt issuance costs (in thousands): 2017 $ 94,725 2018 350,609 2019 74,169 2020 295,231 2021 647,792 2022 and thereafter 1,848,735 $ 3,311,261 Bank Credit Facility In March 2016, we entered into a new $1.4 billion bank credit agreement due March 2021 with a syndicate of banks. As of December 31, 2016 , we have $350.0 million of outstanding borrowings under our Bank Credit Facility and have issued $32.7 million of letters of credit. The Bank Credit Facility provides us with flexibility for labor, 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, 2016 , we are in compliance with all covenants. We pay a quarterly fee on the unused commitment, which was 0.30% at December 31, 2016 . As of December 31, 2016 , we have $317.3 million in borrowing capacity under the facility. As of December 31, 2015, we had a $500.0 million Bank Credit Facility due July 2018 with a syndicate of financial institutions, including a sublimit of $175.0 million for letters of credit. In March 2016, the new $1.4 billion credit agreement replaced the existing $500.0 million Bank Credit Facility due July 2018 and $600.0 million Term Loan due July 2018 providing for a new $700.0 million Bank Credit Facility and a $700.0 million Term Loan, both maturing in March 2021, including a sublimit of $100.0 million for letters of credit. Debt Issuances and Additions During the year ended December 31, 2016, we borrowed $360.0 million on our Bank Credit Facilities and $700.0 million on our Term Loan due March 2021 to make the 2016 debt payments described below, to fund acquisition activity, and for general corporate purposes. These transactions resulted in an additional $5.2 million of debt issue costs. During the year ended December 31, 2015, we borrowed $135.0 million on our Bank Credit Facility and issued an additional $300.0 million of our existing unsecured 5.375% Senior Notes due May 2024 to make the 2015 debt payments described below and for general corporate purposes. The addition to our 5.375% Senior Notes due May 2024 generated a premium of $11.3 million . Debt Extinguishments and Reductions During the year ended December 31, 2016 , we made debt payments of $ 911.5 million for scheduled and early extinguishment payments including: • $310.0 million in aggregate principal of our Term Loan due to July 2018; • $295.0 million in aggregate principal of our 7.0% Senior Notes due 2017; • $280.0 million in aggregate principal of our Bank Credit Facility due July 2018; and • $26.3 million in aggregate principal of our Term Loan due March 2021. • $0.2 million in other debt. Certain of the above transactions resulted in the recognition of a loss of $22.5 million recorded in Losses on early extinguishment of debt in our Consolidated Statement of Operations. During the year ended December 31, 2015 , we made debt payments of $357.6 million for scheduled and early extinguishment payments including: • $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 Losses on early extinguishment of debt in our Consolidated Statement of Operations. Additional Debt Disclosures At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , we had deposits of $4.7 million and $7.0 million , respectively, in restricted, interest-bearing accounts that were pledged as collateral for various credit instruments and commercial commitments. These deposits are included in Deferred charges and other assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheet. We had assets of approximately $1.4 million and $1.5 million pledged as collateral for the mortgage notes and other debt at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Cash interest payments for the three years ended December 31 were as follows (in thousands): Payments in 2016 $ 156,950 Payments in 2015 $ 164,748 Payments in 2014 $ 175,327 Expected cash interest payments for the five years subsequent to December 31, 2016 and thereafter are as follows (in thousands): Payments in 2017 $ 152,682 Payments in 2018 $ 147,342 Payments in 2019 $ 132,269 Payments in 2020 $ 130,745 Payments in 2021 $ 99,515 Payments in 2022 and thereafter $ 197,077

Credit Risk and Fair Value of F

Credit Risk and Fair Value of Financial Instruments Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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: 2016 2015 (In thousands) 7.0% Senior Notes due June 2017 $ — $ 314,618 7.625% Senior Notes due October 2018 272,353 279,375 4.5% Senior Notes due November 2020 205,000 201,500 8.0% Senior Notes due November 2021 175,500 176,438 5.375% Senior Notes due January 2022 444,614 445,188 5.375% Senior Notes due May 2024 884,000 884,094 7.5% Senior Notes due April 2027 231,590 216,500 Term Loan due July 2018 — 310,000 Bank Credit Facility due July 2018 — 270,000 Term Loan due March 2021 673,750 — Bank Credit Facility due March 2021 350,000 — Mortgage notes and other debt, maturities through 2050 3,753 4,047 Total fair value of debt instruments $ 3,240,560 $ 3,101,760 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 that 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 revenue. 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, 2016
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 $31.9 million , $33.3 million , and $37.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , respectively. As of December 31, 2016 , future minimum lease payments for non-cancelable operating and capital leases exceeding one year were as follows: Operating Capital (In thousands) 2017 $ 14,201 $ 59,598 2018 12,122 52,353 2019 10,028 21,533 2020 8,542 29,528 2021 7,564 24,829 2022 and thereafter 67,655 20,917 Total $ 120,112 $ 208,758 Less: Interest on capital leases (16,417 ) Total principal payable on capital leases $ 192,341 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, 2016 , 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) 2017 $ 1,692 $ 185 $ 4,641 $ 6,518 2018 1,035 138 4,436 5,609 2019 818 115 4,203 5,136 2020 375 45 3,017 3,437 2021 107 — 2,022 2,129 2022 and thereafter — — 4,315 4,315 Total $ 4,027 $ 483 $ 22,634 $ 27,144 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, 2016 and 2015 , we have self-insurance reserves of $78.0 million and $76.6 million , respectively. Litigation We are a party to various litigation matters, investigations, and proceedings. Some of the more frequent 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 and Vasquez lawsuits 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. Adrian Mercedes Vasquez, an individual and on behalf of others similarly situated, v. California Cemetery and Funeral Services, LLC, et al; Case No. BC58837; in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Los Angeles. This lawsuit was filed in July 2015 against SCI subsidiaries and purports to be brought on behalf of current and former non-exempt California employees of defendants during the four years preceding the filing of the complaint. The plaintiff alleges numerous causes of action for alleged wage and hour pay violations. The plaintiff seeks unpaid wages, compensatory and punitive damages, attorneys’ fees and costs, interest, and injunctive relief. The claims have been ordered to arbitration, with the arbitrator to determine whether the claims will proceed as a class or individual claims. In addition, the plaintiff filed an unfair labor practice charge against defendants with the National Labor Relations Board alleging that by enforcing a mandatory arbitration provision, defendants allegedly violated the National Labor Relations Act. 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 has continued against our subsidiary Stewart Enterprises and its former individual directors. However, in October 2016, the court entered a judgment dismissing all of plaintiffs’ claims. Plaintiffs have filed documents indicating that they are appealing the dismissal. 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 the plaintiff compensatory damages. The Archdiocese filed a counterclaim and a separate action for unlawful detainer in October 2014, and all claims and actions of the respective parties have been consolidated into one case for all purposes. In February 2016, the Court entered a ruling on the parties’ cross motions for summary adjudication based on the parties’ opposing interpretations of the relevant lease provisions and adopted the Archdiocese’s interpretation of its right to terminate the leases. On July 27, 2016, the parties executed an agreement to settle the consolidated case. Under the settlement agreement, the Company agreed to sell to the Archdiocese substantially all of the assets used in the operations of the six mortuaries located on cemeteries of the Archdiocese and to terminate its rights under the related ground leases. The closing of the sale occurred on November 30, 2016. As a result of the settlement, the consolidated case between the parties has been dismissed. Operational Claims. We are subject to the following lawsuit. Linda Allard, on behalf of herself and all others similarly situated v. SCI Direct, Inc., Case No 16-1033; In the United States District Court, Middle District of Tennessee. This case was filed in June 2016 as a class action under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (the “Act”). Plaintiff alleges she received telemarketing telephone calls that were made with a prerecorded voice or made by an automatic telephone dialing system in violation of the Act. Plaintiff seeks actual and statutory damages, as well as attorney’s fees and costs. We cannot quantify our ultimate liability, if any, 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, 2016
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, 2016 or 2015 . At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , 500,000,000 common shares of $1 par value were authorized. We had 195,403,644 and 200,859,676 shares issued and 189,405,244 and 195,772,876 outstanding at par at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , 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, 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 Net unrealized losses associated with available-for- sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes — (166,570 ) (166,570 ) Reclassification of net unrealized losses 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 ) Net unrealized losses associated with available-for- sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes — (85,140 ) (85,140 ) Reclassification of net unrealized losses 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 Activity in 2016 10,328 — 10,328 Net unrealized gains associated with available-for-sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes — 120,573 120,573 Reclassification of net unrealized gains activity attributable to the Deferred preneed receipts held in trust and Care trusts’ corpus, net of taxes — (120,573 ) (120,573 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 16,492 $ — $ 16,492 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 2016 , we repurchased 8,811,847 shares of common stock at an aggregate cost of $227.9 million , which is an average cost per share of $25.87 . 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 under the program. On November 8, 2016 , 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 $366.6 million at December 31, 2016 . Subsequent to December 31, 2016 , we repurchased 1,969,289 shares for $57.1 million at an average cost per share of $29.00 . Cash Dividends On February 8, 2017 our Board of Directors approved a cash dividend of $0.13 per common share payable on March 31, 2017 to stockholders of record as of March 15, 2017 . Noncontrolling Interest During 2016 , we purchased an additional 11% of the common stock of our consolidated subsidiary, Wilson Financial Group, Inc. for $ 1.9 million .

Share-Based Compensation Level

Share-Based Compensation Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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. In May 2016 , our shareholders approved the 2016 Equity Incentive Plan that reserves 13,000,000 shares of common stock for outstanding and future awards of stock options, restricted stock, and other 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 of 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, 2016 and 2015 , 12,171,075 and 1,531,410 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: Assumptions 2016 2015 2014 Dividend yield 2.0 % 1.8 % 1.8 % Expected volatility 19.7 % 23.3 % 27.1 % Risk-free interest rate 1.0 % 1.3 % 1.1 % 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 as included in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the years ended December 31: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Total pretax employee share-based compensation expense included in net income $ 14,056 $ 13,843 $ 13,127 Income tax benefit related to share-based compensation included in net income $ 6,427 $ 5,068 $ 7,368 We realized windfall tax deductions of $34.0 million , $43.5 million , and $31.6 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, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , 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, 2016 : (Shares reported in whole numbers) Options Weighted-Average Exercise Price Outstanding at December 31, 2015 11,047,920 $ 13.98 Granted 1,863,700 $ 22.28 Exercised (2,108,212 ) $ 8.38 Canceled (28,272 ) $ 20.98 Outstanding at December 31, 2016 10,775,136 $ 16.49 Exercisable at December 31, 2016 6,938,591 $ 13.69 The aggregate intrinsic value for stock options outstanding and exercisable was $128.3 million and $102.1 million , respectively, at December 31, 2016 . Set forth below is certain information related to stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2016 : (Shares reported in whole numbers) Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Range of Exercise Price Number Outstanding at December 31, 2016 Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years) Weighted- Average Exercise Price Number Exercisable at December 31, 2016 Weighted- Average Exercise Price $ 5.00 — 10.00 2,032,763 1.7 $ 8.42 2,032,763 $ 8.42 $10.01 — 15.00 1,361,450 3.1 $ 11.18 1,361,450 $ 11.18 $15.01 — 20.00 3,548,915 4.7 $ 16.50 2,801,293 $ 16.26 $20.01 — 25.00 3,832,008 6.6 $ 22.65 743,085 $ 22.97 $ 5.00 — 25.00 10,775,136 4.6 $ 16.49 6,938,591 $ 13.69 Other information pertaining to stock option activity during the years ended December 31 is as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Weighted average grant-date fair value of stock options granted $ 4.01 $ 3.79 $ 3.34 Total fair value of stock options vested (in thousands) $ 7,690 $ 7,973 $ 6,814 Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised (in thousands) $ 37,284 $ 52,513 $ 42,048 For the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , cash received from the exercise of stock options was $ 17.7 million , $ 31.8 million , and $ 32.4 million , respectively. We recognized compensation expense of $7.6 million , $7.9 million , and $7.5 million related to stock options for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , respectively. As of December 31, 2016 , the unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options of $8.1 million is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.3 years . Restricted Shares Restricted share award activity was as follows: (Shares reported in whole numbers) Restricted Share Awards Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Nonvested restricted share awards at December 31, 2015 573,739 $ 19.32 Granted 241,510 $ 22.28 Vested (313,247 ) $ 18.14 Forfeited and other (1,258 ) $ 20.85 Nonvested restricted share awards at December 31, 2016 500,744 $ 21.48 The fair value of our restricted share units, 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, 2016 , unrecognized compensation expense of $5.8 million related to restricted share awards, 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 $5.6 million , $5.9 million , and $5.7 million during the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , respectively, related to our restricted share awards.

Retirement Plans

Retirement Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Interest cost on projected benefit obligation $ 1,179 $ 1,198 $ 1,293 Recognized net actuarial losses (gains) 259 (1,327 ) 2,401 Total net periodic benefit cost $ 1,438 $ (129 ) $ 3,694 The Plans’ funded status at December 31 was as follows: 2016 2015 (In thousands) Change in Benefit Obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 32,305 $ 36,920 Interest cost 1,179 1,198 Actuarial gain (loss) 259 (1,327 ) Benefits paid (3,665 ) (4,486 ) Benefit obligation at end of year $ 30,078 $ 32,305 Change in Plan Assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ — $ — Employer contributions 3,665 4,486 Benefits paid, including expenses (3,665 ) (4,486 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of year $ — $ — Funded status of plan $ (30,078 ) $ (32,305 ) Funding Summary: Projected benefit obligations $ 30,078 $ 32,305 Accumulated benefit obligation $ 30,078 $ 32,305 Amounts Recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ (3,448 ) $ (3,723 ) Accrued pension - included in Other liabilities (26,630 ) (28,582 ) Total accrued benefit liability $ (30,078 ) $ (32,305 ) 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 these 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, 2016 and 2015 was $47.5 million and $48.9 million , respectively, and the cash surrender value was $37.0 million and $37.7 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: 2016 2015 2014 Weighted-average discount rate used to determine obligations 3.76 % 3.86 % 3.42 % Weighted-average discount rate used to determine net periodic pension cost 3.96 % 2.47 % 3.69 % 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): 2017 $ 3,448 2018 $ 3,237 2019 $ 3,166 2020 $ 2,739 2021 $ 2,428 Years 2022 through 2026 $ 9,959 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 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , 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 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 was $32.5 million , $30.8 million , and $26.8 million , respectively.

Segment Reporting Level 1 (Note

Segment Reporting Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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) 2016 Revenue from external customers $ 1,868,883 $ 1,162,254 $ — $ 3,031,137 Interest expense $ 3,910 $ 101 $ 158,082 $ 162,093 Depreciation and amortization $ 106,251 $ 31,432 $ 9,550 $ 147,233 Amortization of intangible assets $ 20,442 $ 10,440 $ 74 $ 30,956 Gross profit $ 364,237 $ 312,197 $ — $ 676,434 Amortization of cemetery property $ — $ 66,745 $ — $ 66,745 Capital expenditures $ 68,434 $ 113,395 $ 11,617 $ 193,446 Total assets $ 5,156,144 $ 6,484,317 $ 397,688 $ 12,038,149 2015 Revenue from external customers $ 1,888,828 $ 1,097,213 $ — $ 2,986,041 Interest expense $ 4,230 $ 450 $ 168,217 $ 172,897 Depreciation and amortization $ 102,937 $ 29,783 $ 8,736 $ 141,456 Amortization of intangible assets $ 22,636 $ 8,748 $ 75 $ 31,459 Gross profit $ 393,156 $ 281,433 $ — $ 674,589 Amortization of cemetery property $ — $ 62,407 $ — $ 62,407 Capital expenditures $ 52,880 $ 84,345 $ 13,761 $ 150,986 Total assets $ 5,141,544 $ 6,181,877 $ 352,976 $ 11,676,397 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 The following table reconciles gross profit from reportable segments shown above to our consolidated income from continuing operations before income taxes: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Gross profit from reportable segments $ 676,434 $ 674,589 $ 675,685 General and administrative expenses (137,730 ) (130,813 ) (184,749 ) (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net (26,819 ) 6,522 116,613 Operating income 511,885 550,298 607,549 Interest expense (162,093 ) (172,897 ) (177,571 ) Losses on early extinguishment of debt, net (22,503 ) (6,918 ) (29,158 ) Other (expense) income, net (631 ) (132 ) 1,780 Income from continuing operations before income taxes $ 326,658 $ 370,351 $ 402,600 Our geographic area information was as follows: United States Canada Total (In thousands) 2016 Revenue from external customers $ 2,848,876 $ 182,261 $ 3,031,137 Interest expense (income) $ 162,341 $ (248 ) $ 162,093 Depreciation and amortization $ 138,560 $ 8,673 $ 147,233 Amortization of intangible assets $ 30,427 $ 529 $ 30,956 Amortization of cemetery property $ 61,449 $ 5,296 $ 66,745 Operating income $ 460,387 $ 51,498 $ 511,885 (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net $ (27,658 ) $ 839 $ (26,819 ) Long-lived assets $ 5,705,070 $ 266,053 $ 5,971,123 2015 Revenue from external customers $ 2,805,407 $ 180,634 $ 2,986,041 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 $ 498,634 $ 51,664 $ 550,298 Gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net $ 1,778 $ 4,744 $ 6,522 Long-lived assets $ 5,729,721 $ 248,734 $ 5,978,455 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

Supplementary Information Level

Supplementary Information Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Supplementary Information [Abstract]
Additional Financial Information Disclosure [Text Block]	Supplementary Information The detail of certain balance sheet accounts is as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Cash and cash equivalents: Cash $ 146,684 $ 106,831 Commercial paper and temporary investments 48,302 27,768 $ 194,986 $ 134,599 Receivables, net: Notes receivable $ 1,259 $ 2,056 Atneed funeral receivables, net of allowances of $1,881 and $3,343, respectively 46,917 52,184 Atneed cemetery receivables, net of allowances of $1,514 and $2,153, respectively 17,765 13,585 Other 32,514 22,637 $ 98,455 $ 90,462 Other current assets: Income tax receivable $ 3,609 $ 15,662 Prepaid insurance 4,437 5,398 Restricted cash 11,978 12,587 Other 14,500 13,508 $ 34,524 $ 47,155 Cemetery property: Undeveloped land $ 1,184,710 $ 1,186,861 Developed lots, lawn crypts, mausoleum spaces, cremation niches, and cremation memorialization property 592,225 566,154 $ 1,776,935 $ 1,753,015 Property and equipment: Land $ 595,096 $ 591,407 Buildings and improvements 1,879,553 1,834,403 Operating equipment 549,879 530,195 Leasehold improvements 33,900 52,121 Capital leases 234,411 220,784 3,292,839 3,228,910 Less: Accumulated depreciation (1,328,262 ) (1,253,867 ) Less: Accumulated amortization of capital leases (136,990 ) (128,321 ) $ 1,827,587 $ 1,846,722 Deferred charges and other assets: Intangible assets, net $ 368,065 $ 370,005 Restricted cash 4,542 3,907 Deferred tax assets 861 23,817 Notes receivable, net of allowances of $11,334 9,598 10,229 Cash surrender value of insurance policies 119,819 108,726 Other 64,635 65,694 $ 567,520 $ 582,378 December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities: Accounts payable $ 155,802 $ 140,019 Accrued benefits 88,392 86,908 Accrued interest 27,991 28,673 Accrued property taxes 12,883 11,594 Self-insurance reserves 77,993 76,611 Bank overdraft 20,927 21,808 Other accrued liabilities 55,948 57,203 $ 439,936 $ 422,816 Other liabilities: Accrued pension $ 26,630 $ 28,582 Deferred compensation 105,013 92,199 Customer refund obligation reserve 52,068 55,153 Tax liability 235,625 234,176 Payable to perpetual care fund 77,148 71,133 Other 13,838 15,704 $ 510,322 $ 496,947 Revenue and Costs and Expenses The detail of certain income statement accounts is as follows for the years ended December 31 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Property and merchandise revenue: Funeral $ 611,441 $ 608,335 $ 616,992 Cemetery 912,788 849,255 816,980 Total property and merchandise revenue 1,524,229 1,457,590 1,433,972 Services revenue: Funeral 1,126,474 1,146,124 1,167,385 Cemetery 219,044 217,462 222,834 Total services revenue 1,345,518 1,363,586 1,390,219 Other revenue 161,390 164,865 169,820 Total revenue $ 3,031,137 $ 2,986,041 $ 2,994,011 Property and merchandise costs and expenses: Funeral $ 287,272 $ 290,574 $ 292,031 Cemetery 489,326 458,023 485,291 Total cost of property and merchandise 776,598 748,597 777,322 Services costs and expenses: Funeral 627,099 624,294 630,357 Cemetery 104,570 103,197 70,439 Total cost of services 731,669 727,491 700,796 Overhead and other expenses 846,436 835,364 840,208 Total cost and expenses $ 2,354,703 $ 2,311,452 $ 2,318,326 Certain Non-Cash Investing and Financing Transactions Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Net change in capital expenditure accrual $ (1,435 ) $ 5,571 $ 1,022 Options exercised by attestation $ — $ 122 $ 761 Shares repurchased $ — $ (122 ) $ (761 ) Non-cash acquisition of capital leases $ 41,609 $ 55,941 $ 35,422

Earnings Per Share Level 1 (Not

Earnings Per Share Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands, except per share amounts) Amounts attributable to common stockholders: Income from continuing operations — basic $ 177,038 $ 234,162 $ 170,283 After tax interest on convertible debt 43 50 51 Income from continuing operations — diluted $ 177,081 $ 234,212 $ 170,334 (Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax $ — $ (390 ) $ 2,186 Net income — basic $ 177,038 $ 233,772 $ 172,469 After tax interest on convertible debt 43 50 51 Net income — diluted $ 177,081 $ 233,822 $ 172,520 Weighted average shares: Weighted average shares — basic 193,086 200,356 210,741 Stock options 2,823 3,973 3,338 Restricted share units 12 — — Convertible debt 121 121 121 Weighted average shares — diluted 196,042 204,450 214,200 Amounts attributable to common stockholders: Income from continuing operations per share: Basic $ 0.92 $ 1.17 $ 0.81 Diluted $ 0.90 $ 1.14 $ 0.80 Income from discontinued operations per share: Basic $ — $ — $ 0.01 Diluted $ — $ — $ 0.01 Net income per share: Basic $ 0.92 $ 1.17 $ 0.82 Diluted $ 0.90 $ 1.14 $ 0.81 The computation of diluted earnings per share excludes outstanding stock options in certain periods in which the inclusion of such options would be antidilutive to the periods presented. Total options not currently included in the computation of dilutive EPS

Acquisition Level 1 (Notes)

Acquisition Level 1 (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]	Acquisitions We spent $72.9 million , $68.9 million , and $25.7 million for several smaller, tuck-in acquisitions for the three years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. These amounts include the use of $3.7 million , $27.7 million , and $10.4 million in 1031 exchange funds for each year, respectively. SCI Direct During 2014, we acquired the remaining 10% of the outstanding shares of The Neptune Society Inc. (Neptune) increasing our ownership from 90% to 100% .

Divestiture Related Activities

Divestiture Related Activities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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 (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net, which consist of the following for the years ended December 31 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Gains on divestitures, net $ 7,829 $ 13,363 $ 122,535 Impairment losses (34,648 ) (6,841 ) (5,922 ) (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net $ (26,819 ) $ 6,522 $ 116,613

Quarterly Financial Data

Quarterly Financial Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]	Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Quarterly financial data for 2016 and 2015 is as follows: First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2016 Revenue $ 749,219 $ 751,398 $ 721,467 $ 809,053 Costs and expenses $ (586,296 ) $ (589,409 ) $ (580,722 ) $ (598,276 ) Gross profit $ 162,923 $ 161,989 $ 140,745 $ 210,777 Operating income $ 123,672 $ 94,498 $ 114,386 $ 179,329 Income from continuing operations before income taxes (1) $ 79,767 $ 32,639 $ 74,963 $ 139,289 Provision for income taxes $ (32,313 ) $ (16,746 ) $ (27,422 ) $ (72,872 ) Net income $ 47,454 $ 15,893 $ 47,541 $ 66,417 Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests $ (9 ) $ (273 ) $ 186 $ (171 ) Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 47,445 $ 15,620 $ 47,727 $ 66,246 Net income attributable to common stockholders per share (2) : Basic — EPS $ 0.24 $ 0.08 $ 0.25 $ 0.35 Diluted — EPS $ 0.24 $ 0.08 $ 0.24 $ 0.34 2015 Revenue $ 748,089 $ 754,219 $ 714,453 $ 769,280 Costs and expenses $ (569,748 ) $ (587,452 ) $ (572,774 ) $ (581,478 ) Gross profit $ 178,341 $ 166,767 $ 141,679 $ 187,802 Operating income $ 141,115 $ 127,580 $ 124,548 $ 157,055 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 (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, 2016
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, 2016 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, 2016 $ 5,496 $ 10,776 $ 66,808 $ (79,685 ) $ 3,395 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 Due After One Year: Allowance for doubtful accounts: Year Ended December 31, 2016 $ 11,334 $ — $ — $ — $ 11,334 Year Ended December 31, 2015 $ 11,259 $ — $ 75 $ — $ 11,334 Year Ended December 31, 2014 $ 10,986 $ — $ 273 $ — $ 11,259 Preneed Funeral and Preneed Cemetery Asset allowance for cancellation: Year Ended December 31, 2016 $ 105,773 $ 1,411 $ 6,216 $ (8,660 ) $ 104,740 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 Deferred Preneed Funeral and Cemetery Revenue allowance for cancellation: Year Ended December 31, 2016 $ (121,548 ) $ — $ 4,635 $ — $ (116,913 ) Year Ended December 31, 2015 $ (125,030 ) $ — $ 3,482 $ — $ (121,548 ) Year Ended December 31, 2014 $ (149,288 ) $ — $ 24,258 $ — $ (125,030 ) Deferred tax valuation allowance: Year Ended December 31, 2016 $ 126,654 $ 6,336 $ (490 ) $ — $ 132,500 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 (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, 2016
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]
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 revenue 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 revenue. 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 $147.2 million , $141.5 million , and $140.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , 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, 2016 . 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 1.2% to 5.7% 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 2016 or 2015 .
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 revenue 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 2016 or 2015 . 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 2016 , we canceled 7.9 million shares of common stock held in our treasury. We canceled 8.0 million and 11.0 million shares of common stock held in our treasury in 2015 and 2014 , 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. 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. 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 revenue when merchandise is delivered or a service is performed. Fees charged by our wholly-owned registered investment advisor are also included in current revenue 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 revenue.
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. n addition to the loss and tax credit carryforward 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 share-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, 2016, 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 $34.0 million or $12.7 million , net of tax. In addition to the above loss carryforwards, we have $52.0 million of foreign losses that have an indefinite expiration. In assessing the usefulness of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the net deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of net deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Upon reviewing the 2016 foreign operational results as of the fourth quarter, management concluded a foreign valuation allowance was necessary as it was not more likely than not that certain foreign net deferred tax assets would be realized based on all available evidence as of December 31, 2016. During 2016, an additional $ 15.9 million foreign valuation allowance has been recorded which was partially offset by changes in the existing foreign valuation allowances due to fluctuations in the currency exchange rate. Also, in 2016, the state valuation allowance decreased by $ 9.6 million due to state net operating loss expirations. These valuation allowances can be affected in future periods by changes in tax laws, changes to statutory tax rates and changes in estimates of future taxable income. 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 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.
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 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 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.
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 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 , 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 revenue until the merchandise is delivered or the service is performed. These earnings are recorded in Deferred preneed cemetery revenue 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]	, and cash flows. Financial Instruments In January 2016, the FASB amended "Financial Instruments" 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 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. In June 2016, the FASB amended "Financial Instruments" to provide financial statement users with more decision-useful information about the expected credit losses on debt instruments and other commitments to extend credit held by a reporting entity at each reporting date. This amendment replaces the incurred loss impairment methodology in the current standard with a methodology that reflects expected credit losses and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2020, and we are still evaluating the impact of adoption on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows. Leases In February 2016, the FASB amended "Leases" to increase transparency and comparability among organizations. Under the new standard, an entity will be required to recognize lease assets and liabilities on its balance sheet and disclose key information about leasing arrangements. In addition, the new standard offers specific accounting guidance for a lessee, a lessor, and sale and leaseback transactions. Lessees and lessors are required to disclose qualitative and quantitative information about leasing arrangements to enable a user of the financial statements to assess the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. This new standard will be effective for us on January 1, 2019. We are still evaluating the impact of adoption on our consolidated results of operations, consolidated financial position, and cash flows. Stock Compensation In March 2016, the FASB amended "Stock Compensation" to simplify certain aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2017. If we had adopted this amendment for the year ended December 31, 2016 , Net cash provided by operating activities and Net cash used in financing activities would have both increased by $12.7 million and our Provision for income taxes would have decreased by $12.7 million . Cash Flow In August and November 2016, the FASB amended "Statement of Cash Flows" to clarify guidance on the classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments. Additionally, the guidance requires that the statement of cash flows reflect changes in restricted cash in addition to cash and cash equivalents. Amended guidance includes clarification on debt prepayment and extinguishment costs, contingent consideration in business combinations, proceeds from insurance claims, and premium payments on company-owned life insurance. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2018, and we are still evaluating the impact of adoption on our consolidated statement of cash flows. Goodwill In January 2017, the FASB amended "Goodwill" to simplify the subsequent measurement of goodwill. Amended guidance eliminates Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. Instead, impairment is defined as the amount by which the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, up to the total amount of goodwill. The new guidance is effective for us on January 1, 2020, and we are evaluating the impact 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 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 revenue 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 revenue 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 revenue, 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 revenue when merchandise is delivered or a service is performed. Fees charged by our wholly-owned registered investment advisor are also included in current revenue 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 Preneed cemetery 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 .
Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Distributable earnings from these cemetery perpetual care trust investments are recognized in current cemetery revenue to the extent we incur qualifying cemetery maintenance costs. Fees charged by our wholly-owned registered investment advisor are also included in current revenue 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, 2016
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: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments $ 1,760,297 $ 1,843,023 $ 1,870,243 Net preneed contract sales 296,896 283,927 247,994 Cash receipts from customers, net of refunds (246,436 ) (234,413 ) (211,830 ) Deposits to trust 121,668 121,109 102,553 Acquisitions (divestitures) of businesses, net 3,560 1,400 (19,203 ) Net undistributed investment earnings (losses) (1) 65,954 (38,510 ) 22,480 Maturities and distributed earnings (193,604 ) (200,635 ) (162,059 ) Change in cancellation allowance 5,295 2,787 7,644 Effect of foreign currency and other 3,815 (18,391 ) (14,799 ) Ending balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments $ 1,817,445 $ 1,760,297 $ 1,843,023 (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 revenue for the years ended December 31: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenue $ 557,897 $ 540,164 $ 551,948 Net preneed contract sales 251,134 232,628 198,195 Acquisitions (divestitures) of businesses, net 2,170 (2,895 ) (21,639 ) Net investment earnings (losses) (1) 66,656 (37,208 ) 24,256 Recognized deferred preneed revenue (277,248 ) (276,359 ) (258,534 ) Change in cancellation allowance 8,411 11,675 21,272 Change in deferred preneed receipts held in trust (28,506 ) 90,351 26,131 Effect of foreign currency and other 766 (459 ) (1,465 ) Ending balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenue $ 581,280 $ 557,897 $ 540,164 (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 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Deposits $ 121,668 $ 121,109 $ 102,553 Withdrawals $ 157,549 $ 160,135 $ 131,352 Purchases of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 377,813 $ 453,092 $ 1,238,257 Sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 387,959 $ 458,236 $ 1,318,512 (1) The higher level of activity in 2014 was 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: 2016 2015 (In thousands) Trust investments, at market $ 1,152,752 $ 1,109,394 Cash and cash equivalents 122,517 134,642 Assets associated with businesses held for sale — (39 ) Insurance-backed fixed income securities 271,248 271,116 Trust investments 1,546,517 1,515,113 Receivables from customers 312,556 290,689 Unearned finance charge (12,562 ) (11,235 ) 1,846,511 1,794,567 Allowance for cancellation (29,066 ) (34,270 ) Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments $ 1,817,445 $ 1,760,297
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, 2016 and 2015 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, 2016 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 75,245 $ 317 $ (557 ) $ 75,005 Canadian government 2 55,752 272 (42 ) 55,982 Corporate 2 12,702 177 (92 ) 12,787 Residential mortgage-backed 2 29 1 — 30 Asset-backed 2 58 — (3 ) 55 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 1,428 81 (39 ) 1,470 Common stock: United States 1 334,854 49,785 (11,525 ) 373,114 Canada 1 11,853 2,592 (263 ) 14,182 Other international 1 25,761 1,824 (3,167 ) 24,418 Mutual funds: Equity 1 313,132 7,780 (26,842 ) 294,070 Fixed income 1 92,760 1,344 (7,368 ) 86,736 Other 3 4,079 1,214 (17 ) 5,276 Trust investments, at fair value 927,653 65,387 (49,915 ) 943,125 Fixed income commingled funds 168,959 3,177 (1,167 ) 170,969 Private equity 40,892 2,956 (5,190 ) 38,658 Trust investments, at net asset value 209,851 6,133 (6,357 ) 209,627 Trust investments, at market $ 1,137,504 $ 71,520 $ (56,272 ) $ 1,152,752 December 31, 2015 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 64,140 $ 89 $ (1,270 ) $ 62,959 Canadian government 2 56,975 323 (55 ) 57,243 Corporate 2 18,983 235 (284 ) 18,934 Residential mortgage-backed 2 1,299 29 (22 ) 1,306 Asset-backed 2 5 — — 5 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 1,951 41 (158 ) 1,834 Common stock: United States 1 344,544 30,885 (19,149 ) 356,280 Canada 1 11,882 2,651 (1,077 ) 13,456 Other international 1 32,193 2,636 (3,907 ) 30,922 Mutual funds: Equity 1 324,231 1,263 (43,975 ) 281,519 Fixed income 1 155,893 154 (13,092 ) 142,955 Other 3 3,687 1,069 — 4,756 Trust investments, at fair value 1,015,783 39,375 (82,989 ) 972,169 Fixed income commingled funds 102,063 228 (1,103 ) 101,188 Private equity 38,724 3,780 (6,467 ) 36,037 Trust investments, at net asset value 140,787 4,008 (7,570 ) 137,225 Trust investments, at market $ 1,156,570 $ 43,383 $ (90,559 ) $ 1,109,394
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 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Fair value, beginning balance at January 1 $ 4,756 $ 4,891 $ 801 Net unrealized gains (losses) included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (1) 478 (167 ) 876 Purchases 89 32 3,214 Sales (47 ) — — Fair value, ending balance at December 31 $ 5,276 $ 4,756 $ 4,891 (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 .
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]	Maturity dates of our fixed income securities range from 2017 to 2041 . Maturities of fixed income securities at December 31, 2016 are estimated as follows: Fair Value (In thousands) Due in one year or less $ 76,744 Due in one to five years 27,298 Due in five to ten years 31,374 Thereafter 8,443 $ 143,859
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, 2016 and 2015 , are shown in the following tables. December 31, 2016 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 $ 25,996 $ (557 ) $ — $ — $ 25,996 $ (557 ) Canadian government 2,847 (30 ) 191 (12 ) 3,038 (42 ) Corporate 1,710 (15 ) 3,560 (77 ) 5,270 (92 ) Asset-backed — — 55 (3 ) 55 (3 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 125 (17 ) 98 (22 ) 223 (39 ) Common stock: United States 87,059 (8,149 ) 14,939 (3,376 ) 101,998 (11,525 ) Canada 2,832 (254 ) 482 (9 ) 3,314 (263 ) Other international 5,390 (1,301 ) 7,368 (1,866 ) 12,758 (3,167 ) Mutual funds: Equity 108,109 (5,080 ) 127,273 (21,762 ) 235,382 (26,842 ) Fixed income 34,120 (817 ) 31,654 (6,551 ) 65,774 (7,368 ) Other 26 (2 ) 1,160 (15 ) 1,186 (17 ) Trust investments, at fair value 268,214 (16,222 ) 186,780 (33,693 ) 454,994 (49,915 ) Fixed income commingled funds 75,041 (687 ) 17,656 (480 ) 92,697 (1,167 ) Private equity 693 (481 ) 22,812 (4,709 ) 23,505 (5,190 ) Trust investments, at net asset value 75,734 (1,168 ) 40,468 (5,189 ) 116,202 (6,357 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 343,948 $ (17,390 ) $ 227,248 $ (38,882 ) $ 571,196 $ (56,272 ) 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 $ 36,113 $ (1,268 ) $ 141 $ (2 ) $ 36,254 $ (1,270 ) Canadian government 209 (7 ) 971 (48 ) 1,180 (55 ) Corporate 4,618 (156 ) 3,880 (128 ) 8,498 (284 ) Residential mortgage-backed 378 (6 ) 132 (16 ) 510 (22 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 449 (60 ) 42 (98 ) 491 (158 ) Common stock: United States 128,925 (16,448 ) 14,537 (2,701 ) 143,462 (19,149 ) Canada 1,941 (355 ) 1,051 (722 ) 2,992 (1,077 ) Other international 9,473 (1,638 ) 6,154 (2,269 ) 15,627 (3,907 ) Mutual funds: Equity 186,016 (23,385 ) 79,892 (20,590 ) 265,908 (43,975 ) Fixed income 109,154 (5,052 ) 27,061 (8,040 ) 136,215 (13,092 ) Trust investments, at fair value 477,276 (48,375 ) 133,861 (34,614 ) 611,137 (82,989 ) Fixed income commingled funds 70,964 (457 ) 15,243 (646 ) 86,207 (1,103 ) Private equity — — 18,714 (6,467 ) 18,714 (6,467 ) Trust investments, at net asset value 70,964 (457 ) 33,957 (7,113 ) 104,921 (7,570 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 548,240 $ (48,832 ) $ 167,818 $ (41,727 ) $ 716,058 $ (90,559 )

Preneed Cemetery Activities L32

Preneed Cemetery Activities Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Preneed cemetery receivables and trust investments $ 2,318,167 $ 2,306,669 $ 2,292,348 Net preneed contract sales 862,298 799,497 688,336 Cash receipts from customers, net of refunds (784,267 ) (716,686 ) (615,489 ) Deposits to trust 158,114 153,252 129,581 (Divestitures) acquisitions of businesses, net (2,083 ) 4,404 (10,898 ) Net undistributed investment earnings (losses) (1) 79,557 (42,189 ) (18,038 ) Maturities, deliveries, and associated earnings (144,308 ) (163,732 ) (150,064 ) Change in cancellation allowance (1,966 ) (2,046 ) 843 Effect of foreign currency and other 2,208 (21,002 ) (9,950 ) Ending balance — Preneed cemetery receivables and trust investments $ 2,487,720 $ 2,318,167 $ 2,306,669 (1) Includes both realized and unrealized investment earnings
Deferred Preneed Cemetery Revenues [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes the activity in Deferred preneed cemetery revenue for the years ended December 31 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Beginning balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenue $ 1,120,001 $ 1,062,381 $ 1,016,275 Net preneed and atneed deferred sales 596,714 561,899 531,768 (Divestitures) acquisitions of businesses, net (1,977 ) 2,357 (25,071 ) Net investment earnings (losses) (1) 79,447 (42,806 ) (22,378 ) Recognized deferred preneed and atneed revenue (546,071 ) (504,064 ) (493,739 ) Change in cancellation allowance (3,015 ) (8,048 ) 3,833 Change in deferred preneed receipts held in trust (96,417 ) 52,050 55,636 Effect of foreign currency and other 1,455 (3,768 ) (3,943 ) Ending balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenue $ 1,150,137 $ 1,120,001 $ 1,062,381 (1) Includes both realized and unrealized investment earnings (losses).
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 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Deposits $ 158,114 $ 153,252 $ 129,581 Withdrawals $ 144,308 $ 163,732 $ 150,064 Purchases of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 656,452 $ 625,648 $ 1,786,800 Sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 631,440 $ 628,484 $ 1,842,417
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: 2016 2015 (In thousands) Trust investments, at market $ 1,435,083 $ 1,343,916 Cash and cash equivalents 123,146 118,583 Trust investments 1,558,229 1,462,499 Receivables from customers 1,038,592 958,503 Unearned finance charges (33,427 ) (31,332 ) 2,563,394 2,389,670 Allowance for cancellation (75,674 ) (71,503 ) Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments $ 2,487,720 $ 2,318,167
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, 2016 and 2015 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, 2016 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 70,070 $ 567 $ (281 ) $ 70,356 Canadian government 2 9,109 49 (66 ) 9,092 Corporate 2 1,596 18 (34 ) 1,580 Asset-backed 2 170 13 — 183 Equity securities: Common stock: United States 1 539,445 72,682 (21,680 ) 590,447 Canada 1 9,027 4,807 (84 ) 13,750 Other international 1 42,870 3,023 (5,229 ) 40,664 Mutual funds: Equity 1 356,079 7,812 (29,603 ) 334,288 Fixed income 1 94,383 1,535 (9,854 ) 86,064 Trust investments, at fair value 1,122,749 90,506 (66,831 ) 1,146,424 Fixed income commingled funds 245,813 5,347 (1,681 ) 249,479 Private equity 37,881 4,616 (3,317 ) 39,180 Trust investments, at net asset value 283,694 9,963 (4,998 ) 288,659 Trust investments, at market $ 1,406,443 $ 100,469 $ (71,829 ) $ 1,435,083 December 31, 2015 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 69,727 $ 25 $ (1,437 ) $ 68,315 Canadian government 2 9,725 183 (99 ) 9,809 Corporate 2 5,115 26 (118 ) 5,023 Residential mortgage-backed 2 129 3 (3 ) 129 Asset-backed 2 170 15 — 185 Equity securities: Common stock: United States 1 531,885 44,181 (32,037 ) 544,029 Canada 1 8,992 3,858 (891 ) 11,959 Other international 1 50,041 4,207 (5,799 ) 48,449 Mutual funds: Equity 1 356,712 1,620 (49,642 ) 308,690 Fixed income 1 203,932 92 (18,527 ) 185,497 Other 3 1,382 122 — 1,504 Trust investments, at fair value 1,237,810 54,332 (108,553 ) 1,183,589 Fixed income commingled funds 124,103 — (639 ) 123,464 Private equity 35,411 5,954 (4,502 ) 36,863 Trust investments, at net asset value 159,514 5,954 (5,141 ) 160,327 Trust investments, at market $ 1,397,324 $ 60,286 $ (113,694 ) $ 1,343,916
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 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Fair value, beginning balance at January 1 $ 1,504 $ 203 $ — Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (1) — (27 ) 7 Net realized losses included in Other (expense) income, net (2) (212 ) — — Purchases — 1,328 196 Sales (1,292 ) — — Fair value, ending balance at December 31 $ — $ 1,504 $ 203 (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 (expense) income, net for our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Other (expense) income, 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 2017 to 2041 . Maturities of fixed income securities (excluding mutual funds) at December 31, 2016 are estimated as follows: Fair Value (In thousands) Due in one year or less $ 7,154 Due in one to five years 26,237 Due in five to ten years 34,244 Thereafter 13,576 $ 81,211
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, 2016 and 2015 , are shown in the following tables: December 31, 2016 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 $ 15,413 $ (281 ) $ — $ — $ 15,413 $ (281 ) Canadian government — — 1,192 (66 ) 1,192 (66 ) Corporate — — 736 (34 ) 736 (34 ) Equity securities: Common stock: United States 149,530 (13,680 ) 23,010 (8,000 ) 172,540 (21,680 ) Canada 408 (82 ) 38 (2 ) 446 (84 ) Other international 9,707 (2,330 ) 11,442 (2,899 ) 21,149 (5,229 ) Mutual funds: Equity 125,728 (4,728 ) 146,332 (24,875 ) 272,060 (29,603 ) Fixed income 26,566 (446 ) 45,337 (9,408 ) 71,903 (9,854 ) Trust investments, at fair value 327,352 (21,547 ) 228,087 (45,284 ) 555,439 (66,831 ) Fixed income commingled funds 133,164 (1,681 ) — — 133,164 (1,681 ) Private equity 558 (1 ) 16,769 (3,316 ) 17,327 (3,317 ) Trust investments, at net asset value 133,722 (1,682 ) 16,769 (3,316 ) 150,491 (4,998 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 461,074 $ (23,229 ) $ 244,856 $ (48,600 ) $ 705,930 $ (71,829 ) 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 $ 52,509 $ (1,435 ) $ 21 $ (2 ) $ 52,530 $ (1,437 ) Canadian government 1,190 (34 ) 841 (65 ) 2,031 (99 ) Corporate 1,764 (22 ) 2,347 (96 ) 4,111 (118 ) Residential mortgage-backed 42 (1 ) 18 (2 ) 60 (3 ) Equity securities: Common stock: United States 198,755 (26,038 ) 21,355 (5,999 ) 220,110 (32,037 ) Canada 473 (6 ) 1,430 (885 ) 1,903 (891 ) Other international 15,560 (2,507 ) 9,412 (3,292 ) 24,972 (5,799 ) Mutual funds: Equity 207,253 (25,991 ) 86,720 (23,651 ) 293,973 (49,642 ) Fixed income 139,684 (6,323 ) 44,550 (12,204 ) 184,234 (18,527 ) Trust investments, at fair value 617,230 (62,357 ) 166,694 (46,196 ) 783,924 (108,553 ) Fixed income commingled funds 123,464 (639 ) — — 123,464 (639 ) Private equity — — 9,526 (4,502 ) 9,526 (4,502 ) Trust investments, at net asset value 123,464 (639 ) 9,526 (4,502 ) 132,990 (5,141 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 740,694 $ (62,996 ) $ 176,220 $ (50,698 ) $ 916,914 $ (113,694 )

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust33

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Level 3 (Tables) - Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Deposits $ 41,450 $ 38,883 $ 42,220 Withdrawals $ 48,522 $ 40,447 $ 46,981 Purchases of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 428,635 $ 247,658 $ 1,306,314 Sales of available-for-sale securities (1) $ 374,329 $ 175,057 $ 1,396,669
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: 2016 2015 (In thousands) Trust investments, at market $ 1,349,073 $ 1,232,592 Cash and cash equivalents 58,392 86,835 Cemetery perpetual care trust investments $ 1,407,465 $ 1,319,427
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, 2016 and 2015 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, 2016 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: Canadian government 2 $ 14,280 $ 88 $ (114 ) $ 14,254 Corporate 2 4,636 100 (101 ) 4,635 Residential mortgage-backed 2 304 — (1 ) 303 Asset-backed 2 220 3 (28 ) 195 Equity securities: Preferred stock 2 1,479 2 (117 ) 1,364 Common stock: United States 1 233,643 28,679 (2,337 ) 259,985 Canada 1 4,828 2,631 (108 ) 7,351 Other international 1 14,607 148 (2,236 ) 12,519 Mutual funds: Equity 1 18,909 4,370 (412 ) 22,867 Fixed income 1 688,472 3,324 (28,997 ) 662,799 Other 3 633 1,254 — 1,887 Trust investments, at fair value 982,011 40,599 (34,451 ) 988,159 Fixed income commingled funds 277,662 — (9,386 ) 268,276 Private equity 97,108 2,240 (6,710 ) 92,638 Trust investments, at net asset value 374,770 2,240 (16,096 ) 360,914 Trust investments, at market $ 1,356,781 $ 42,839 $ (50,547 ) $ 1,349,073 December 31, 2015 Fair Value Hierarchy Level Cost Unrealized Gains Unrealized Losses Fair Value (In thousands) Fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury 2 $ 650 $ 20 $ (7 ) $ 663 Canadian government 2 15,412 321 (162 ) 15,571 Corporate 2 12,490 149 (284 ) 12,355 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 1 230,854 15,224 (10,898 ) 235,180 Canada 1 5,460 2,112 (606 ) 6,966 Other international 1 14,793 160 (2,390 ) 12,563 Mutual funds: Equity 1 21,783 3,138 (1,850 ) 23,071 Fixed income 1 890,025 530 (63,913 ) 826,642 Other 3 645 1,257 — 1,902 Trust investments, at fair value 1,199,556 22,984 (80,309 ) 1,142,231 Fixed income commingled funds 20,616 — (178 ) 20,438 Private equity 75,613 2,406 (8,096 ) 69,923 Trust investments, at net asset value 96,229 2,406 (8,274 ) 90,361 Trust investments, at market $ 1,295,785 $ 25,390 $ (88,583 ) $ 1,232,592
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 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Fair value, beginning balance at January 1 $ 1,902 $ 1,556 $ 1,599 Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income (1) (15 ) 346 (26 ) Sales — — (17 ) Fair value, ending balance at December 31 $ 1,887 $ 1,902 $ 1,556 (1) All unrealized (losses) gains 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 .
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]	Maturity dates of our fixed income securities range from 2017 to 2040 . Maturities of fixed income securities at December 31, 2016 are estimated as follows: Fair Value (In thousands) Due in one year or less $ 1,834 Due in one to five years 17,283 Due in five to ten years 69 Thereafter 201 $ 19,387
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, 2016 and 2015 , are shown in the following table: December 31, 2016 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: Canadian government $ 66 $ (1 ) $ 1,961 $ (113 ) $ 2,027 $ (114 ) Corporate 397 (7 ) 1,866 (94 ) 2,263 (101 ) Residential mortgage-backed 303 (1 ) — — 303 (1 ) Asset-backed 28 (22 ) 101 (6 ) 129 (28 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 846 (36 ) 417 (81 ) 1,263 (117 ) Common stock: United States 34,844 (1,339 ) 12,974 (998 ) 47,818 (2,337 ) Canada 78 (47 ) 558 (61 ) 636 (108 ) Other international 4,177 (508 ) 5,715 (1,728 ) 9,892 (2,236 ) Mutual funds: Equity 877 (17 ) 2,899 (395 ) 3,776 (412 ) Fixed income 263,231 (4,678 ) 348,623 (24,319 ) 611,854 (28,997 ) Trust investments, at fair value 304,847 (6,656 ) 375,114 (27,795 ) 679,961 (34,451 ) Fixed income commingled funds 265,345 (9,346 ) 2,931 (40 ) 268,276 (9,386 ) Private equity 21,426 (268 ) 33,519 (6,442 ) 54,945 (6,710 ) Trust investments, at net asset value 286,771 (9,614 ) 36,450 (6,482 ) 323,221 (16,096 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 591,618 $ (16,270 ) $ 411,564 $ (34,277 ) $ 1,003,182 $ (50,547 ) 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 $ 364 $ (6 ) $ 35 $ (1 ) $ 399 $ (7 ) Canadian government 1,569 (60 ) 1,371 (102 ) 2,940 (162 ) Corporate 4,693 (134 ) 4,147 (150 ) 8,840 (284 ) Residential mortgage-backed 303 (3 ) 117 (6 ) 420 (9 ) Asset-backed 146 (12 ) 360 (19 ) 506 (31 ) Equity securities: Preferred stock 4,029 (159 ) — — 4,029 (159 ) Common stock: United States 81,564 (7,793 ) 14,900 (3,105 ) 96,464 (10,898 ) Canada 622 (31 ) 1,026 (575 ) 1,648 (606 ) Other international 8,735 (941 ) 2,347 (1,449 ) 11,082 (2,390 ) Mutual funds: Equity 4,580 (606 ) 1,258 (1,244 ) 5,838 (1,850 ) Fixed income 519,993 (18,205 ) 294,309 (45,708 ) 814,302 (63,913 ) Trust investments, at fair value 626,598 (27,950 ) 319,870 (52,359 ) 946,468 (80,309 ) Fixed income commingled funds 20,438 (178 ) — — 20,438 (178 ) Private equity 13,139 (75 ) 30,438 (8,021 ) 43,577 (8,096 ) Trust investments, at net asset value 33,577 (253 ) 30,438 (8,021 ) 64,015 (8,274 ) Total temporarily impaired securities $ 660,175 $ (28,203 ) $ 350,308 $ (60,380 ) $ 1,010,483 $ (88,583 )

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, 2016
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, 2016 and 2015 are detailed below. December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Preneed Funeral Preneed Cemetery Total Preneed Funeral Preneed Cemetery Total (In thousands) (In thousands) Trust investments $ 1,546,517 $ 1,558,229 $ 3,104,746 $ 1,515,113 $ 1,462,499 $ 2,977,612 Accrued trust operating payables and other (589 ) (361 ) (950 ) (1,381 ) (2,845 ) (4,226 ) Deferred preneed receipts held in trust $ 1,545,928 $ 1,557,868 $ 3,103,796 $ 1,513,732 $ 1,459,654 $ 2,973,386
Schedule of Care Trust Corpus' Components [Table Text Block]	The components of Care trusts’ corpus in our Consolidated Balance Sheet are detailed below. December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (In thousands) Cemetery perpetual care trust investments $ 1,407,465 $ 1,319,427 Accrued trust operating payables and other 778 137 Care trusts’ corpus $ 1,408,243 $ 1,319,564
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, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 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, 2016 Funeral Trusts Cemetery Trusts Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Other, Net Total (In thousands) Realized gains $ 38,704 $ 53,253 $ 8,327 $ — $ 100,284 Realized losses (46,432 ) (60,795 ) (6,579 ) — (113,806 ) Impairment charges (4,625 ) (5,872 ) (1,360 ) — (11,857 ) Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income 20,299 17,428 56,594 — 94,321 Trust expenses and income taxes (20,190 ) (22,137 ) (22,801 ) — (65,128 ) Net trust investment (losses) income (12,244 ) (18,123 ) 34,181 — 3,814 Reclassification to deferred preneed receipts held in trust and care trusts’ corpus 12,244 18,123 (34,181 ) — (3,814 ) Other expense, net — — — (631 ) (631 ) Total other expense, net $ — $ — $ — $ (631 ) $ (631 ) 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 — — — (132 ) (132 ) Total other expense, net $ — $ — $ — $ (132 ) $ (132 ) 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

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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): 2016 2015 Funeral Cemetery Total Funeral Cemetery Total (In thousands) Balance as of January 1 $ 1,490,502 $ 305,838 $ 1,796,340 $ 1,510,879 $ 299,974 $ 1,810,853 Increase (decrease) in goodwill related to acquisitions 26,809 (151 ) 26,658 6,460 6,201 12,661 Reduction of goodwill related to divestitures (26,554 ) (270 ) (26,824 ) (8,908 ) (262 ) (9,170 ) Effect of foreign currency 2,898 9 2,907 (17,929 ) (75 ) (18,004 ) Activity 3,153 (412 ) 2,741 (20,377 ) 5,864 (14,513 ) Balance as of December 31 $ 1,493,655 $ 305,426 $ 1,799,081 $ 1,490,502 $ 305,838 $ 1,796,340
Schedule of Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]	The components of intangible assets at December 31 were as follows: Useful Life Minimum Maximum 2016 2015 (Years) (In thousands) Amortizing intangibles: Covenants-not-to-compete 2 - 20 $ 211,549 $ 206,822 Customer relationships 10 - 20 146,876 154,364 Tradenames 5 - 5 9,150 12,750 Other 5 - 40 11,927 11,927 379,502 385,863 Less: Accumulated amortization 268,061 257,157 Amortizing intangibles, net 111,441 128,706 Non-amortizing intangibles: Tradenames Indefinite 245,984 230,659 Other Indefinite 10,640 10,640 Non-amortizing intangibles 256,624 241,299 Intangible assets, net $ 368,065 $ 370,005
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, 2016 (in thousands): 2017 $ 11,718 2018 $ 10,961 2019 $ 7,711 2020 $ 6,613 2021 $ 6,504

Income Taxes Level 3 (Tables)

Income Taxes Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) United States $ 287,946 $ 331,622 $ 360,800 Foreign 38,712 38,729 41,800 $ 326,658 $ 370,351 $ 402,600
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: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Current: United States $ 113,629 $ 94,502 $ 67,511 Foreign 12,084 9,270 10,859 State 16,150 13,207 17,939 Total current income taxes 141,863 116,979 96,309 Deferred: United States $ (19,496 ) $ 15,918 $ 108,514 Foreign 22,708 (878 ) (653 ) State 4,278 3,008 21,810 Total deferred income taxes 7,490 18,048 129,671 Total income taxes $ 149,353 $ 135,027 $ 225,980
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: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Computed tax provision at the applicable federal statutory income tax rate $ 114,331 $ 129,623 $ 140,910 State and local taxes, net of federal income tax benefits 13,279 10,542 25,736 Foreign jurisdiction differences (2,557 ) (5,183 ) (4,424 ) Permanent differences associated with divestitures 9,267 2,909 61,892 Changes in uncertain tax positions 5,669 4,046 4,624 Foreign valuation allowance, net of federal income tax benefits 15,850 — — Other (6,486 ) (6,910 ) (2,758 ) Provision for income taxes $ 149,353 $ 135,027 $ 225,980 Total consolidated effective tax rate 45.7 % 36.5 % 56.1 %
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	The tax effects of temporary differences and carryforwards that give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31 consisted of the following: 2016 2015 (In thousands) Inventories and cemetery property $ (335,795 ) $ (338,143 ) Property and equipment (149,450 ) (168,265 ) Intangibles (294,251 ) (302,217 ) Other (6,980 ) (12,047 ) Deferred tax liabilities (786,476 ) (820,672 ) Loss and tax credit carryforwards 157,795 171,725 Deferred revenue on preneed funeral and cemetery contracts 223,174 226,483 Accrued liabilities 84,230 102,351 Deferred tax assets 465,199 500,559 Less: Valuation allowance (132,500 ) (126,654 ) Net deferred income tax liability $ (453,777 ) $ (446,767 )
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: 2016 2015 (In thousands) Non-current deferred tax assets $ 861 $ 23,817 Non-current deferred tax liabilities (454,638 ) (470,584 ) Net deferred income tax liability $ (453,777 ) $ (446,767 )
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes the activity related to our gross unrecognized tax benefits from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2016 (in thousands): Federal, State and Foreign Tax (In thousands) 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 Reduction to tax positions related to prior years (12,370 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 182,545 Reductions to tax positions related to prior years (4,219 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 178,326
Summary of Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table Text Block]	Such loss carryforwards will expire as follows: Federal State Foreign Total (In thousands) 2017 $ — $ 241,619 $ — $ 241,619 2018 — 111,084 — 111,084 2019 — 143,491 — 143,491 2020 200 183,071 — 183,271 Thereafter 1,900 3,111,526 6,632 3,120,058 Total $ 2,100 $ 3,790,791 $ 6,632 $ 3,799,523
Summary of Valuation Allowance [Table Text Block]	At December 31, 2016 , our loss and tax credit carryforward 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 carryforwards $ 914 $ 136,462 $ 20,419 $ 157,795 Valuation allowance $ — $ 101,417 $ 31,083 $ 132,500

Debt Level 3 (Tables)

Debt Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]	Debt as of December 31 was as follows: 2016 2015 (In thousands) 7.0% Senior Notes due June 2017 $ — $ 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 850,000 850,000 7.5% Senior Notes due April 2027 200,000 200,000 Term Loan due July 2018 — 310,000 Bank Credit Facility due July 2018 — 270,000 Term Loan due March 2021 673,750 — Bank Credit Facility due March 2021 350,000 — Obligations under capital leases 208,758 204,246 Mortgage notes and other debt, maturities through 2050 3,753 4,037 Unamortized premiums (discounts) and other, net 8,313 8,636 Unamortized debt issuance costs (32,984 ) (42,491 ) Total debt 3,286,590 3,124,428 Less: Current maturities of long-term debt (89,974 ) (86,823 ) Total long-term debt $ 3,196,616 $ 3,037,605
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes the aggregate maturities of our debt for the five years subsequent to December 31, 2016 and thereafter, excluding unamortized premiums (discounts) and debt issuance costs (in thousands): 2017 $ 94,725 2018 350,609 2019 74,169 2020 295,231 2021 647,792 2022 and thereafter 1,848,735 $ 3,311,261
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 2016 $ 156,950 Payments in 2015 $ 164,748 Payments in 2014 $ 175,327 Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Net change in capital expenditure accrual $ (1,435 ) $ 5,571 $ 1,022 Options exercised by attestation $ — $ 122 $ 761 Shares repurchased $ — $ (122 ) $ (761 ) Non-cash acquisition of capital leases $ 41,609 $ 55,941 $ 35,422
Schedule of future cash interest payments [Table Text Block]	ash interest payments for the five years subsequent to December 31, 2016 and thereafter are as follows (in thousands): Payments in 2017 $ 152,682 Payments in 2018 $ 147,342 Payments in 2019 $ 132,269 Payments in 2020 $ 130,745 Payments in 2021 $ 99,515 Payments in 2022 and thereafter $ 197,077

Credit Risk and Fair Value of38

Credit Risk and Fair Value of Financial Instruments Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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: 2016 2015 (In thousands) 7.0% Senior Notes due June 2017 $ — $ 314,618 7.625% Senior Notes due October 2018 272,353 279,375 4.5% Senior Notes due November 2020 205,000 201,500 8.0% Senior Notes due November 2021 175,500 176,438 5.375% Senior Notes due January 2022 444,614 445,188 5.375% Senior Notes due May 2024 884,000 884,094 7.5% Senior Notes due April 2027 231,590 216,500 Term Loan due July 2018 — 310,000 Bank Credit Facility due July 2018 — 270,000 Term Loan due March 2021 673,750 — Bank Credit Facility due March 2021 350,000 — Mortgage notes and other debt, maturities through 2050 3,753 4,047 Total fair value of debt instruments $ 3,240,560 $ 3,101,760

Commitments and Contingencies39

Commitments and Contingencies Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]	As of December 31, 2016 , future minimum lease payments for non-cancelable operating and capital leases exceeding one year were as follows: Operating Capital (In thousands) 2017 $ 14,201 $ 59,598 2018 12,122 52,353 2019 10,028 21,533 2020 8,542 29,528 2021 7,564 24,829 2022 and thereafter 67,655 20,917 Total $ 120,112 $ 208,758 Less: Interest on capital leases (16,417 ) Total principal payable on capital leases $ 192,341
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table Text Block]	At December 31, 2016 , 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) 2017 $ 1,692 $ 185 $ 4,641 $ 6,518 2018 1,035 138 4,436 5,609 2019 818 115 4,203 5,136 2020 375 45 3,017 3,437 2021 107 — 2,022 2,129 2022 and thereafter — — 4,315 4,315 Total $ 4,027 $ 483 $ 22,634 $ 27,144

Equity Level 3 (Tables)

Equity Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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, 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 Net unrealized losses associated with available-for- sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes — (166,570 ) (166,570 ) Reclassification of net unrealized losses 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 ) Net unrealized losses associated with available-for- sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes — (85,140 ) (85,140 ) Reclassification of net unrealized losses 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 Activity in 2016 10,328 — 10,328 Net unrealized gains associated with available-for-sale securities of the trusts, net of taxes — 120,573 120,573 Reclassification of net unrealized gains activity attributable to the Deferred preneed receipts held in trust and Care trusts’ corpus, net of taxes — (120,573 ) (120,573 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 16,492 $ — $ 16,492

Share-Based Compensation Leve41

Share-Based Compensation Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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: Assumptions 2016 2015 2014 Dividend yield 2.0 % 1.8 % 1.8 % Expected volatility 19.7 % 23.3 % 27.1 % Risk-free interest rate 1.0 % 1.3 % 1.1 % 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 as included in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the years ended December 31: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Total pretax employee share-based compensation expense included in net income $ 14,056 $ 13,843 $ 13,127 Income tax benefit related to share-based compensation included in net income $ 6,427 $ 5,068 $ 7,368
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, 2016 : (Shares reported in whole numbers) Options Weighted-Average Exercise Price Outstanding at December 31, 2015 11,047,920 $ 13.98 Granted 1,863,700 $ 22.28 Exercised (2,108,212 ) $ 8.38 Canceled (28,272 ) $ 20.98 Outstanding at December 31, 2016 10,775,136 $ 16.49 Exercisable at December 31, 2016 6,938,591 $ 13.69
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, 2016 : (Shares reported in whole numbers) Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Range of Exercise Price Number Outstanding at December 31, 2016 Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years) Weighted- Average Exercise Price Number Exercisable at December 31, 2016 Weighted- Average Exercise Price $ 5.00 — 10.00 2,032,763 1.7 $ 8.42 2,032,763 $ 8.42 $10.01 — 15.00 1,361,450 3.1 $ 11.18 1,361,450 $ 11.18 $15.01 — 20.00 3,548,915 4.7 $ 16.50 2,801,293 $ 16.26 $20.01 — 25.00 3,832,008 6.6 $ 22.65 743,085 $ 22.97 $ 5.00 — 25.00 10,775,136 4.6 $ 16.49 6,938,591 $ 13.69
Other Information Pertaining to Stock Option Activity [Table Text Block]	Other information pertaining to stock option activity during the years ended December 31 is as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Weighted average grant-date fair value of stock options granted $ 4.01 $ 3.79 $ 3.34 Total fair value of stock options vested (in thousands) $ 7,690 $ 7,973 $ 6,814 Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised (in thousands) $ 37,284 $ 52,513 $ 42,048
Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block]	Restricted share award activity was as follows: (Shares reported in whole numbers) Restricted Share Awards Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Nonvested restricted share awards at December 31, 2015 573,739 $ 19.32 Granted 241,510 $ 22.28 Vested (313,247 ) $ 18.14 Forfeited and other (1,258 ) $ 20.85 Nonvested restricted share awards at December 31, 2016 500,744 $ 21.48
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block]	Restricted Share Units Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Nonvested restricted share units at December 31, 2015 — $ — Granted 130,660 $ 25.72 Vested (1,950 ) $ 25.72 Forfeited and other (5,200 ) $ 25.72 Nonvested restricted share units at December 31, 2016 123,510 $ 25.72

Retirement Plans Retirement Pla

Retirement Plans Retirement Plans Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Interest cost on projected benefit obligation $ 1,179 $ 1,198 $ 1,293 Recognized net actuarial losses (gains) 259 (1,327 ) 2,401 Total net periodic benefit cost $ 1,438 $ (129 ) $ 3,694
Schedule of Net Funded Status [Table Text Block]	The Plans’ funded status at December 31 was as follows: 2016 2015 (In thousands) Change in Benefit Obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 32,305 $ 36,920 Interest cost 1,179 1,198 Actuarial gain (loss) 259 (1,327 ) Benefits paid (3,665 ) (4,486 ) Benefit obligation at end of year $ 30,078 $ 32,305 Change in Plan Assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ — $ — Employer contributions 3,665 4,486 Benefits paid, including expenses (3,665 ) (4,486 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of year $ — $ — Funded status of plan $ (30,078 ) $ (32,305 ) Funding Summary: Projected benefit obligations $ 30,078 $ 32,305 Accumulated benefit obligation $ 30,078 $ 32,305 Amounts Recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ (3,448 ) $ (3,723 ) Accrued pension - included in Other liabilities (26,630 ) (28,582 ) Total accrued benefit liability $ (30,078 ) $ (32,305 )
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: 2016 2015 2014 Weighted-average discount rate used to determine obligations 3.76 % 3.86 % 3.42 % Weighted-average discount rate used to determine net periodic pension cost 3.96 % 2.47 % 3.69 %
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): 2017 $ 3,448 2018 $ 3,237 2019 $ 3,166 2020 $ 2,739 2021 $ 2,428 Years 2022 through 2026 $ 9,959

Segment Reporting Level 3 (Tabl

Segment Reporting Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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) 2016 Revenue from external customers $ 1,868,883 $ 1,162,254 $ — $ 3,031,137 Interest expense $ 3,910 $ 101 $ 158,082 $ 162,093 Depreciation and amortization $ 106,251 $ 31,432 $ 9,550 $ 147,233 Amortization of intangible assets $ 20,442 $ 10,440 $ 74 $ 30,956 Gross profit $ 364,237 $ 312,197 $ — $ 676,434 Amortization of cemetery property $ — $ 66,745 $ — $ 66,745 Capital expenditures $ 68,434 $ 113,395 $ 11,617 $ 193,446 Total assets $ 5,156,144 $ 6,484,317 $ 397,688 $ 12,038,149 2015 Revenue from external customers $ 1,888,828 $ 1,097,213 $ — $ 2,986,041 Interest expense $ 4,230 $ 450 $ 168,217 $ 172,897 Depreciation and amortization $ 102,937 $ 29,783 $ 8,736 $ 141,456 Amortization of intangible assets $ 22,636 $ 8,748 $ 75 $ 31,459 Gross profit $ 393,156 $ 281,433 $ — $ 674,589 Amortization of cemetery property $ — $ 62,407 $ — $ 62,407 Capital expenditures $ 52,880 $ 84,345 $ 13,761 $ 150,986 Total assets $ 5,141,544 $ 6,181,877 $ 352,976 $ 11,676,397 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
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 profit from reportable segments shown above to our consolidated income from continuing operations before income taxes: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Gross profit from reportable segments $ 676,434 $ 674,589 $ 675,685 General and administrative expenses (137,730 ) (130,813 ) (184,749 ) (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net (26,819 ) 6,522 116,613 Operating income 511,885 550,298 607,549 Interest expense (162,093 ) (172,897 ) (177,571 ) Losses on early extinguishment of debt, net (22,503 ) (6,918 ) (29,158 ) Other (expense) income, net (631 ) (132 ) 1,780 Income from continuing operations before income taxes $ 326,658 $ 370,351 $ 402,600
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) 2016 Revenue from external customers $ 2,848,876 $ 182,261 $ 3,031,137 Interest expense (income) $ 162,341 $ (248 ) $ 162,093 Depreciation and amortization $ 138,560 $ 8,673 $ 147,233 Amortization of intangible assets $ 30,427 $ 529 $ 30,956 Amortization of cemetery property $ 61,449 $ 5,296 $ 66,745 Operating income $ 460,387 $ 51,498 $ 511,885 (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net $ (27,658 ) $ 839 $ (26,819 ) Long-lived assets $ 5,705,070 $ 266,053 $ 5,971,123 2015 Revenue from external customers $ 2,805,407 $ 180,634 $ 2,986,041 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 $ 498,634 $ 51,664 $ 550,298 Gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net $ 1,778 $ 4,744 $ 6,522 Long-lived assets $ 5,729,721 $ 248,734 $ 5,978,455 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

Supplementary Information Lev44

Supplementary Information Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Supplementary Information [Abstract]
Schedule of Balance Sheet, Supplemental Disclosures	The detail of certain balance sheet accounts is as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Cash and cash equivalents: Cash $ 146,684 $ 106,831 Commercial paper and temporary investments 48,302 27,768 $ 194,986 $ 134,599 Receivables, net: Notes receivable $ 1,259 $ 2,056 Atneed funeral receivables, net of allowances of $1,881 and $3,343, respectively 46,917 52,184 Atneed cemetery receivables, net of allowances of $1,514 and $2,153, respectively 17,765 13,585 Other 32,514 22,637 $ 98,455 $ 90,462 Other current assets: Income tax receivable $ 3,609 $ 15,662 Prepaid insurance 4,437 5,398 Restricted cash 11,978 12,587 Other 14,500 13,508 $ 34,524 $ 47,155 Cemetery property: Undeveloped land $ 1,184,710 $ 1,186,861 Developed lots, lawn crypts, mausoleum spaces, cremation niches, and cremation memorialization property 592,225 566,154 $ 1,776,935 $ 1,753,015 Property and equipment: Land $ 595,096 $ 591,407 Buildings and improvements 1,879,553 1,834,403 Operating equipment 549,879 530,195 Leasehold improvements 33,900 52,121 Capital leases 234,411 220,784 3,292,839 3,228,910 Less: Accumulated depreciation (1,328,262 ) (1,253,867 ) Less: Accumulated amortization of capital leases (136,990 ) (128,321 ) $ 1,827,587 $ 1,846,722 Deferred charges and other assets: Intangible assets, net $ 368,065 $ 370,005 Restricted cash 4,542 3,907 Deferred tax assets 861 23,817 Notes receivable, net of allowances of $11,334 9,598 10,229 Cash surrender value of insurance policies 119,819 108,726 Other 64,635 65,694 $ 567,520 $ 582,378 December 31, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities: Accounts payable $ 155,802 $ 140,019 Accrued benefits 88,392 86,908 Accrued interest 27,991 28,673 Accrued property taxes 12,883 11,594 Self-insurance reserves 77,993 76,611 Bank overdraft 20,927 21,808 Other accrued liabilities 55,948 57,203 $ 439,936 $ 422,816 Other liabilities: Accrued pension $ 26,630 $ 28,582 Deferred compensation 105,013 92,199 Customer refund obligation reserve 52,068 55,153 Tax liability 235,625 234,176 Payable to perpetual care fund 77,148 71,133 Other 13,838 15,704 $ 510,322 $ 496,947
Schedule of Product Information [Table Text Block]	The detail of certain income statement accounts is as follows for the years ended December 31 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Property and merchandise revenue: Funeral $ 611,441 $ 608,335 $ 616,992 Cemetery 912,788 849,255 816,980 Total property and merchandise revenue 1,524,229 1,457,590 1,433,972 Services revenue: Funeral 1,126,474 1,146,124 1,167,385 Cemetery 219,044 217,462 222,834 Total services revenue 1,345,518 1,363,586 1,390,219 Other revenue 161,390 164,865 169,820 Total revenue $ 3,031,137 $ 2,986,041 $ 2,994,011 Property and merchandise costs and expenses: Funeral $ 287,272 $ 290,574 $ 292,031 Cemetery 489,326 458,023 485,291 Total cost of property and merchandise 776,598 748,597 777,322 Services costs and expenses: Funeral 627,099 624,294 630,357 Cemetery 104,570 103,197 70,439 Total cost of services 731,669 727,491 700,796 Overhead and other expenses 846,436 835,364 840,208 Total cost and expenses $ 2,354,703 $ 2,311,452 $ 2,318,326
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 2016 $ 156,950 Payments in 2015 $ 164,748 Payments in 2014 $ 175,327 Years Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Net change in capital expenditure accrual $ (1,435 ) $ 5,571 $ 1,022 Options exercised by attestation $ — $ 122 $ 761 Shares repurchased $ — $ (122 ) $ (761 ) Non-cash acquisition of capital leases $ 41,609 $ 55,941 $ 35,422

Earnings Per Share Level 3 (Tab

Earnings Per Share Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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: 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands, except per share amounts) Amounts attributable to common stockholders: Income from continuing operations — basic $ 177,038 $ 234,162 $ 170,283 After tax interest on convertible debt 43 50 51 Income from continuing operations — diluted $ 177,081 $ 234,212 $ 170,334 (Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax $ — $ (390 ) $ 2,186 Net income — basic $ 177,038 $ 233,772 $ 172,469 After tax interest on convertible debt 43 50 51 Net income — diluted $ 177,081 $ 233,822 $ 172,520 Weighted average shares: Weighted average shares — basic 193,086 200,356 210,741 Stock options 2,823 3,973 3,338 Restricted share units 12 — — Convertible debt 121 121 121 Weighted average shares — diluted 196,042 204,450 214,200 Amounts attributable to common stockholders: Income from continuing operations per share: Basic $ 0.92 $ 1.17 $ 0.81 Diluted $ 0.90 $ 1.14 $ 0.80 Income from discontinued operations per share: Basic $ — $ — $ 0.01 Diluted $ — $ — $ 0.01 Net income per share: Basic $ 0.92 $ 1.17 $ 0.82 Diluted $ 0.90 $ 1.14 $ 0.81
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block]	2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Antidilutive options 982 3 1,491

Acquisition Level 3 (Tables)

Acquisition Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]

Divestiture Related Activities

Divestiture Related Activities Divestiture Related Activities Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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 (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net, which consist of the following for the years ended December 31 : 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Gains on divestitures, net $ 7,829 $ 13,363 $ 122,535 Impairment losses (34,648 ) (6,841 ) (5,922 ) (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net $ (26,819 ) $ 6,522 $ 116,613
Schedule of Income from Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block]	2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Gains on divestitures, net $ 7,829 $ 13,363 $ 122,535 Impairment losses (34,648 ) (6,841 ) (5,922 ) (Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net $ (26,819 ) $ 6,522 $ 116,613

Quarterly Financial Data Quarte

Quarterly Financial Data Quarterly Financial Data Level 3 (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]	Quarterly financial data for 2016 and 2015 is as follows: First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2016 Revenue $ 749,219 $ 751,398 $ 721,467 $ 809,053 Costs and expenses $ (586,296 ) $ (589,409 ) $ (580,722 ) $ (598,276 ) Gross profit $ 162,923 $ 161,989 $ 140,745 $ 210,777 Operating income $ 123,672 $ 94,498 $ 114,386 $ 179,329 Income from continuing operations before income taxes (1) $ 79,767 $ 32,639 $ 74,963 $ 139,289 Provision for income taxes $ (32,313 ) $ (16,746 ) $ (27,422 ) $ (72,872 ) Net income $ 47,454 $ 15,893 $ 47,541 $ 66,417 Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests $ (9 ) $ (273 ) $ 186 $ (171 ) Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 47,445 $ 15,620 $ 47,727 $ 66,246 Net income attributable to common stockholders per share (2) : Basic — EPS $ 0.24 $ 0.08 $ 0.25 $ 0.35 Diluted — EPS $ 0.24 $ 0.08 $ 0.24 $ 0.34 2015 Revenue $ 748,089 $ 754,219 $ 714,453 $ 769,280 Costs and expenses $ (569,748 ) $ (587,452 ) $ (572,774 ) $ (581,478 ) Gross profit $ 178,341 $ 166,767 $ 141,679 $ 187,802 Operating income $ 141,115 $ 127,580 $ 124,548 $ 157,055 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 (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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment	$ 5,500
Intangible Fair Value Inputs, Royalty Savings Rate, Low	0.010
Required percentage of sales price	10.00%
Amortization of cemetery property	$ 66,745	$ 62,407	$ 60,439
Depreciation	$ 147,233	$ 141,456	$ 140,002
Goodwill Reporting Unit Fair Value Inputs, Growth Rate, Low End of the Range	1.20%
Goodwill Reporting Unit Fair Value Inputs, Growth Rate, High End of the Range	5.70%
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
Funeral [Member]
Amortization of cemetery property	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Depreciation	$ 106,251	102,937	101,801
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	$ 66,745	62,407	60,439
Depreciation	$ 31,432	$ 29,783	$ 28,745
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	7,901	7,969	10,956
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

Preneed Funeral Activities Inve

Preneed Funeral Activities Investment Related Activities (Details) - Funeral [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Investment related activities [Line Items]
Deposits to trust	$ 121,668	$ 121,109		$ 102,553
Withdrawals	157,549	160,135		131,352
Purchases of available-for-sale securities	377,813	453,092	[1]	1,238,257
Sales of available-for-sale securities	387,959	458,236	[1]	1,318,512
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	38,704	42,034		168,567
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	$ (46,432)	$ (31,403)		$ (113,748)
[1]	(1)The higher level of activity in 2014 was 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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Long-term receivable and investment components [Line Items]
Insurance-backed fixed income securities	$ 119,819	$ 108,726
Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments	1,817,445	1,760,297
Funeral [Member]
Long-term receivable and investment components [Line Items]
Trust investments, at market	1,152,752	1,109,394
Cash and cash equivalents	122,517	134,642
Current assets of discontinued operations	0	(39)
Insurance-backed fixed income securities	271,248	271,116
Trust investments	1,546,517	1,515,113
Receivables from customers	312,556	290,689
Unearned finance charge	(12,562)	(11,235)
Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments, excluding allowance for cancellation	1,846,511	1,794,567
Allowance for cancellation	(29,066)	(34,270)
Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments	$ 1,817,445	$ 1,760,297	$ 1,843,023	$ 1,870,243

Preneed Funeral Activities Pren

Preneed Funeral Activities Preneed Funeral Activities Receivables Net and Trust Invesments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Beginning balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments		$ 1,760,297
Ending balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments		1,817,445	$ 1,760,297
Funeral [Member]
Beginning balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments		1,760,297	1,843,023	$ 1,870,243
Net preneed contract sales		296,896	283,927	247,994
Cash receipts from customers, net of refunds		(246,436)	(234,413)	(211,830)
Deposits to trust		121,668	121,109	102,553
Acquisitions (dispositions) of businesses, net		3,560	1,400	(19,203)
Net undistributed investments (losses) earnings	[1]	65,954	(38,510)	22,480
Maturities and distributed earnings		(193,604)	(200,635)	(162,059)
Change in cancellation allowance		5,295	2,787	7,644
Effect of foreign currency and other		3,815	(18,391)	(14,799)
Ending balance — Preneed funeral receivables and trust investments		$ 1,817,445	$ 1,760,297	$ 1,843,023
[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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	$ 1,137,504	$ 1,156,570
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	71,520	43,383
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(56,272)	(90,559)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	1,152,752	1,109,394
Commingled Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	168,959	102,063
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	3,177	228
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(1,167)	(1,103)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	170,969	101,188
Private Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	40,892	38,724
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	2,956	3,780
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(5,190)	(6,467)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	38,658	36,037
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	927,653	1,015,783
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	65,387	39,375
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(49,915)	(82,989)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	943,125	972,169
Reported At Net Asset Value [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	209,851	140,787
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	6,133	4,008
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	6,357	7,570
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	209,627	137,225
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	75,245	64,140
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	317	89
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(557)	(1,270)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	75,005	62,959
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	55,752	56,975
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	272	323
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(42)	(55)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	55,982	57,243
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	12,702	18,983
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	177	235
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(92)	(284)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	12,787	18,934
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	29	1,299
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	1	29
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	(22)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	30	1,306
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	58	5
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(3)	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	55	5
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	1,428	1,951
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	81	41
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(39)	(158)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	1,470	1,834
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	334,854	344,544
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	49,785	30,885
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(11,525)	(19,149)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	373,114	356,280
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	11,853	11,882
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	2,592	2,651
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(263)	(1,077)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	14,182	13,456
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	25,761	32,193
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	1,824	2,636
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(3,167)	(3,907)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	24,418	30,922
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	313,132	324,231
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	7,780	1,263
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(26,842)	(43,975)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	294,070	281,519
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	92,760	155,893
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	1,344	154
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(7,368)	(13,092)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	86,736	142,955
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Other Investments [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	4,079	3,687
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	1,214	1,069
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(17)	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	$ 5,276	$ 4,756

Preneed Funeral Activities Le54

Preneed Funeral Activities Level 3 Activities (Details) - Other Investments [Member] - Funeral [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair market value, beginning balance		$ 4,756	$ 4,891	$ 801
Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income(1)	[1]	478	(167)	876
Purchases		89	32	3,214
Sales		(47)	0	0
Fair market value, ending balance		$ 5,276	$ 4,756	$ 4,891
[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.

Preneed Funeral Activities In55

Preneed Funeral Activities Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date (Details) - Funeral [Member] $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]
Due in one year or less	$ 76,744
Due in one to five years	27,298
Due in five to ten years	31,374
Thereafter	8,443
Total	$ 143,859

Preneed Funeral Activities Sc56

Preneed Funeral Activities Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	$ 343,948	$ 548,240
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(17,390)	(48,832)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	227,248	167,818
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(38,882)	(41,727)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	571,196	716,058
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(56,272)	(90,559)
US Treasury Securities [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	25,996	36,113
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(557)	(1,268)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	0	141
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	0	(2)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	25,996	36,254
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(557)	(1,270)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	2,847	209
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(30)	(7)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	191	971
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(12)	(48)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	3,038	1,180
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(42)	(55)
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	1,710	4,618
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(15)	(156)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	3,560	3,880
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(77)	(128)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	5,270	8,498
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(92)	(284)
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 12 Months, Fair Value		378
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(6)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value		132
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(16)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		510
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(22)
Preferred Stock securities [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	125	449
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(17)	(60)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	98	42
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(22)	(98)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	223	491
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(39)	(158)
US Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		198,755
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(26,038)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		220,110
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(32,037)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	87,059	128,925
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(8,149)	(16,448)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	14,939	14,537
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(3,376)	(2,701)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	101,998	143,462
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(11,525)	(19,149)
Canada Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		473
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(6)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		1,903
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(891)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	2,832	1,941
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(254)	(355)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	482	1,051
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(9)	(722)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	3,314	2,992
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(263)	(1,077)
Other International Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		15,560
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(2,507)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		24,972
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(5,799)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	5,390	9,473
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(1,301)	(1,638)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	7,368	6,154
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(1,866)	(2,269)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	12,758	15,627
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(3,167)	(3,907)
Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		207,253
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(25,991)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		293,973
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(49,642)
Equity Funds [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	108,109	186,016
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(5,080)	(23,385)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	127,273	79,892
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(21,762)	(20,590)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	235,382	265,908
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(26,842)	(43,975)
Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		139,684
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(6,323)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		184,234
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(18,527)
Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	34,120	109,154
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(817)	(5,052)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	31,654	27,061
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(6,551)	(8,040)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	65,774	136,215
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(7,368)	(13,092)
Commingled Funds [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	75,041	70,964
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(687)	(457)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	17,656	15,243
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(480)	(646)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	92,697	86,207
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(1,167)	(1,103)
Private Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 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, 12 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, Aggregate Losses		(4,502)
Private Equity Funds [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	693	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(481)	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	22,812	18,714
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(4,709)	(6,467)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	23,505	18,714
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(5,190)	(6,467)
Other Investments [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	26
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Loss	(2)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	1,160
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Loss	(15)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	1,186
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(17)
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	268,214	477,276
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Loss	(16,222)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(48,375)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	186,780	133,861
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Loss	(33,693)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(34,614)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	454,994	611,137
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(49,915)	(82,989)
Reported At Net Asset Value [Member] | Funeral [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	75,734	70,964
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	1,168	457
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	40,468	33,957
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	5,189	7,113
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	116,202	104,921
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	$ 6,357	$ 7,570

Preneed Funeral Activities Pr57

Preneed Funeral Activities Preneed Funeral Activities Deferred Preneed Funeral Revenues (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred Preneed Revenues [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenues, net		$ 557,897
Ending balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenues, net		581,280	$ 557,897
Funeral [Member]
Deferred Preneed Revenues [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenues, net		557,897	540,164	$ 551,948
Net preneed contract sales		251,134	232,628	198,195
Acquisitions (dispositions) of businesses, net		2,170	(2,895)	(21,639)
Net investment (losses) earnings	[1]	66,656	(37,208)	24,256
Recognized deferred preneed revenues		(277,248)	(276,359)	(258,534)
Change in cancellation allowance		8,411	11,675	21,272
Change in deferred preneed funeral receipts held in trust		(28,506)	90,351	26,131
Effect of foreign currency and other		766	(459)	(1,465)
Ending balance — Deferred preneed funeral revenues, net		$ 581,280	$ 557,897	$ 540,164
[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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share, Unfunded Commitments	$ 31,800
Available-for-sale securities, estimated maturity date, minimum	2,017
Available-for-sale securities, estimated maturity date, maximum	2,041
Investment Earnings, Net	$ 49,900	$ 52,900	$ 62,800
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net	4,625	3,519	41,846
Insurance Commissions and Fees	$ 135,800	$ 137,000	$ 123,000

Preneed Cemetery Activities Inv

Preneed Cemetery Activities Investment Related Activities (Details) - Cemetery [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Investment related activities [Line Items]
Deposits to trust	$ 158,114	$ 153,252	$ 129,581
Withdrawals	144,308	163,732	150,064
Purchases of available-for-sale securities	656,452	625,648	1,786,800
Sales of available-for-sale securities	631,440	628,484	1,842,417
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	53,253	51,510	271,507
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	$ (60,795)	$ (40,092)	$ (138,473)

Preneed Cemetery Activities Lon

Preneed Cemetery Activities Long-term Receivable and Investment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Long-term receivable and investment components [Line Items]
Insurance-backed fixed income securities	$ 119,819	$ 108,726
Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments	1,817,445	1,760,297
Cemetery [Member]
Long-term receivable and investment components [Line Items]
Trust investments, at market	1,435,083	1,343,916
Cash and cash equivalents	123,146	118,583
Trust investments	1,558,229	1,462,499
Receivables from customers	1,038,592	958,503
Unearned finance charge	(33,427)	(31,332)
Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments, excluding allowance for cancellation	2,563,394	2,389,670
Allowance for cancellation	(75,674)	(71,503)
Preneed funeral receivables, net and trust investments	$ 2,487,720	$ 2,318,167

Preneed Cemetery Activities Pre

Preneed Cemetery Activities Preneed Cemetary Activities Receivables Net and Trust Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments		$ 2,318,167
Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments		2,487,720	$ 2,318,167
Cemetery [Member]
Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments		2,318,167	2,306,669	$ 2,292,348
Net preneed contract sales		862,298	799,497	688,336
Dispositions (acquisitions) of businesses, net		(2,083)	4,404	(10,898)
Net undistributed investments (losses) earnings	[1]	79,557	(42,189)	(18,038)
Cash receipts from customers, net of refunds		(784,267)	(716,686)	(615,489)
Deposits to trust		158,114	153,252	129,581
Maturities, deliveries, and associated earnings		(144,308)	(163,732)	(150,064)
Change in cancellation allowance		(1,966)	(2,046)	843
Effect of foreign currency and other		2,208	(21,002)	(9,950)
Preneed cemetery receivables, net and trust investments		$ 2,487,720	$ 2,318,167	$ 2,306,669
[1]	Includes both realized and unrealized investment earnings

Preneed Cemetery Activities Sch

Preneed Cemetery Activities Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities (Details) - Cemetery [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	$ 1,406,443	$ 1,397,324
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	100,469	60,286
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(71,829)	(113,694)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	1,435,083	1,343,916
Commingled Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	245,813	124,103
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	5,347	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(1,681)	(639)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	249,479	123,464
Private Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	37,881	35,411
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	4,616	5,954
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(3,317)	(4,502)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	39,180	36,863
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	1,122,749	1,237,810
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	90,506	54,332
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(66,831)	(108,553)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	1,146,424	1,183,589
Reported At Net Asset Value [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	283,694	159,514
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	9,963	5,954
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	4,998	(5,141)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	288,659	160,327
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	70,070	69,727
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	567	25
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(281)	(1,437)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	70,356	68,315
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	9,109	9,725
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	49	183
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(66)	(99)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	9,092	9,809
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	1,596	5,115
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	18	26
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(34)	(118)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	1,580	5,023
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
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains		3
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses		(3)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value		129
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	13	15
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	183	185
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	539,445	531,885
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	72,682	44,181
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(21,680)	(32,037)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	590,447	544,029
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	9,027	8,992
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	4,807	3,858
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(84)	(891)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	13,750	11,959
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	42,870	50,041
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	3,023	4,207
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(5,229)	(5,799)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	40,664	48,449
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	356,079	356,712
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	7,812	1,620
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(29,603)	(49,642)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	334,288	308,690
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	94,383	203,932
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	1,535	92
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(9,854)	(18,527)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	$ 86,064	185,497
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Other Investments [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis		1,382
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains		122
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value		$ 1,504

Preneed Cemetery Activities L63

Preneed Cemetery Activities Level 3 Activities (Details) - Other Investments [Member] - Cemetery [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair market value, beginning balance		$ 1,504	$ 203	$ 0
Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income(1)	[1]	0	(27)	7
Net realized losses included in Other income, net(2)	[2]	(212)	0	0
Payments to Acquire Other Investments		0	1,328	196
Sales		(1,292)	0	0
Fair market value, ending balance		$ 0	$ 1,504	$ 203
[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 (expense) income, net for our cemetery merchandise and service trust investments are attributable to our preneed customers and are offset by a corresponding reclassification in Other (expense) income, 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, 2016USD ($)
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]
Due in one year or less	$ 7,154
Due in one to five years	26,237
Due in five to ten years	34,244
Thereafter	13,576
Total	$ 81,211

Preneed Cemetery Activities S65

Preneed Cemetery Activities Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	$ 461,074	$ 740,694
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(23,229)	(62,996)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	244,856	176,220
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(48,600)	(50,698)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	705,930	916,914
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	71,829	113,694
US Treasury Securities [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	15,413	52,509
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(281)	(1,435)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	0	21
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	0	(2)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	15,413	52,530
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	281	1,437
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 12 Months, Fair Value	0	1,190
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	0	(34)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	1,192	841
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(66)	(65)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	1,192	2,031
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	66	99
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	0	1,764
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	0	(22)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	736	2,347
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(34)	(96)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	736	4,111
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	34	118
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 12 Months, Fair Value		42
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(1)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value		18
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(2)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		60
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss		3
US Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		198,755
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(26,038)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		220,110
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss		32,037
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 12 Months, Fair Value	149,530
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(13,680)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	23,010
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(8,000)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	172,540
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	21,680
Canada Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		473
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(6)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		1,903
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss		891
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 12 Months, Fair Value	408
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(82)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	38
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(2)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	446
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	84
Other International Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		15,560
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(2,507)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		24,972
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss		5,799
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 12 Months, Fair Value	9,707
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(2,330)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	11,442
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(2,899)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	21,149
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	5,229
Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		207,253
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(25,991)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		293,973
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss		49,642
Equity Funds [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	125,728
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(4,728)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	146,332
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(24,875)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	272,060
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	29,603
Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		139,684
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(6,323)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		184,234
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss		18,527
Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	26,566
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(446)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	45,337
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(9,408)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	71,903
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	9,854
Commingled Funds [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	133,164	123,464
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(1,681)	639
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	133,164	123,464
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	1,681	(639)
Private Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 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, 12 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
Private Equity Funds [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	558
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(1)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	16,769
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(3,316)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	17,327
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	3,317
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	327,352	617,230
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	21,547	62,357
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	228,087	166,694
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	45,284	46,196
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	555,439	783,924
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	(66,831)	(108,553)
Reported At Net Asset Value [Member] | Cemetery [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	133,722	123,464
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	1,682	639
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	16,769	9,526
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	3,316	4,502
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	150,491	132,990
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	$ (4,998)	$ (5,141)

Preneed Cemetery Activities Def

Preneed Cemetery Activities Deferred Preneed Cemetery Revenues (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Beginning balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenues		$ 1,120,001
Ending balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenues		1,150,137	$ 1,120,001
Cemetery [Member]
Beginning balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenues		1,120,001	1,062,381	$ 1,016,275
Net preneed and atneed deferred sales		596,714	561,899	531,768
(Dispositions) acquisitions of businesses, net		(1,977)	2,357	(25,071)
Net investment (losses) earnings	[1]	79,447	(42,806)	(22,378)
Recognized deferred preneed revenues		(546,071)	(504,064)	(493,739)
Change in cancellation allowance		(3,015)	(8,048)	3,833
Change in deferred preneed cemetary receipts held in trust		(96,417)	52,050	55,636
Effect of foreign currency and other		1,455	(3,768)	(3,943)
Ending balance — Deferred preneed cemetery revenues		$ 1,150,137	$ 1,120,001	$ 1,062,381
[1]	Includes both realized and unrealized investment earnings (losses).

Preneed Cemetery Activities P67

Preneed Cemetery Activities Preneed Cemetery Activities, Textuals (Details) - Cemetery [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share, Unfunded Commitments	$ 32,700
Available-for-sale securities, estimated maturity date, maximum	2,041
Investment Earnings, Net	$ 44,500	$ 45,500	$ 48,200
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net	$ 5,872	$ 4,345	$ 60,040

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust68

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Investment Related Activities (Details) - Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Investment related activities [Line Items]
Deposits to trust	$ 41,450	$ 38,883		$ 42,220
Withdrawals	48,522	40,447		46,981
Purchases of available-for-sale securities	428,635	247,658	[1]	1,306,314
Sales of available-for-sale securities	374,329	175,057	[1]	1,396,669
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	8,327	6,933		134,259
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	$ (6,579)	$ (7,708)		$ (51,093)
[1]	(1)The higher level of activity in 2014 was 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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Long-term receivable and investment components [Line Items]
Cemetery perpetual care trust investments	$ 1,407,465	$ 1,319,427
Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Long-term receivable and investment components [Line Items]
Trust investments, at market	1,349,073	1,232,592
Cash and cash equivalents	58,392	86,835
Cemetery perpetual care trust investments	$ 1,407,465	$ 1,319,427

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust70

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities (Details) - Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	$ 1,356,781	$ 1,295,785
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	42,839	25,390
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(50,547)	(88,583)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	1,349,073	1,232,592
Private Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	97,108	75,613
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	2,240	2,406
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(6,710)	(8,096)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	92,638	69,923
Fixed Income Commingled funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	277,662	20,616
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	9,386	178
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	268,276	20,438
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	982,011	1,199,556
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	40,599	22,984
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	34,451	80,309
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	988,159	1,142,231
Reported At Net Asset Value [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis		96,229
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains		2,406
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses		8,274
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value		90,361
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		650
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains		20
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses		(7)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value		663
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	14,280	15,412
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	88	321
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(114)	(162)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	14,254	15,571
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	4,636	12,490
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	100	149
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(101)	(284)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	4,635	12,355
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	304	934
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	0	13
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(1)	(9)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	303	938
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	220	660
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	3	5
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(28)	(31)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	195	634
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	1,479	5,850
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	2	55
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(117)	(159)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	1,364	5,746
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	233,643	230,854
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	28,679	15,224
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(2,337)	(10,898)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	259,985	235,180
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	4,828	5,460
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	2,631	2,112
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(108)	(606)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	7,351	6,966
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	14,607	14,793
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	148	160
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(2,236)	(2,390)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	12,519	12,563
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	18,909	21,783
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	4,370	3,138
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(412)	(1,850)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	22,867	23,071
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	688,472	890,025
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	3,324	530
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(28,997)	(63,913)
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	662,799	826,642
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Other Investments [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	633	645
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	1,254	1,257
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	1,887	$ 1,902
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Reported At Net Asset Value [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	374,770
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	2,240
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	16,096
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	$ 360,914

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust71

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Level 3 Activities (Details) - Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member] - Other Investments [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair market value, beginning balance		$ 1,902	$ 1,556	$ 1,599
Net unrealized (losses) gains included in Accumulated other comprehensive income(1)	[1]	(15)	346	(26)
Sales		0	0	(17)
Fair market value, ending balance		$ 1,887	$ 1,902	$ 1,556
[1]	All unrealized (losses) gains 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.

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust72

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Investments Classifed by Contractual Maturity Date (Details) - Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member] $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]
Due in one year or less	$ 1,834
Due in one to five years	17,283
Due in five to ten years	69
Thereafter	201
Total	$ 19,387

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust73

Cemetery Perpetual Care Trusts Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	$ 591,618	$ 660,175
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(16,270)	(28,203)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	411,564	350,308
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(34,277)	(60,380)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	1,003,182	1,010,483
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(50,547)	(88,583)
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 12 Months, Fair Value		364
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(6)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value		35
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		(1)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		399
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(7)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	66	1,569
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(1)	(60)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	1,961	1,371
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(113)	(102)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	2,027	2,940
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(114)	(162)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	397	4,693
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(7)	(134)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	1,866	4,147
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(94)	(150)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	2,263	8,840
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(101)	(284)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	303	303
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(1)	(3)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	0	117
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	0	(6)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	303	420
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(1)	(9)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	28	146
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(22)	(12)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	101	360
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(6)	(19)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	129	506
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(28)	(31)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	846	4,029
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(36)	(159)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	417	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(81)	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	1,263	4,029
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(117)	(159)
US Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		198,755
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(26,038)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		220,110
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(32,037)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	34,844	81,564
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(1,339)	(7,793)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	12,974	14,900
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(998)	(3,105)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	47,818	96,464
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(2,337)	(10,898)
Canada Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		473
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(6)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		1,903
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(891)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	78	622
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(47)	(31)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	558	1,026
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(61)	(575)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	636	1,648
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(108)	(606)
Other International Common Stock Securities [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		15,560
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(2,507)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		24,972
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(5,799)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	4,177	8,735
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(508)	(941)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	5,715	2,347
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(1,728)	(1,449)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	9,892	11,082
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(2,236)	(2,390)
Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		207,253
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(25,991)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		293,973
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(49,642)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	877	4,580
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(17)	(606)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	2,899	1,258
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(395)	(1,244)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	3,776	5,838
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(412)	(1,850)
Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value		139,684
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		(6,323)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 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		184,234
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		(18,527)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	263,231	519,993
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(4,678)	(18,205)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	348,623	294,309
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(24,319)	(45,708)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	611,854	814,302
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(28,997)	(63,913)
Private Equity Funds [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 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, 12 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, Aggregate Losses		(4,502)
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 12 Months, Fair Value	21,426	13,139
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	(268)	(75)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	33,519	30,438
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	(6,442)	(8,021)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	54,945	43,577
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	(6,710)	(8,096)
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 12 Months, Fair Value		33,577
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		253
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value		30,438
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		8,021
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		64,015
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		8,274
Fixed Income Commingled funds [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	265,345	20,438
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	9,346	178
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	2,931	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	40	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	268,276	20,438
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	9,386	178
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	304,847	626,598
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	6,656	27,950
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	375,114	319,870
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	27,795	52,359
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	679,961	946,468
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	34,451	$ 80,309
Reported At Net Asset Value [Member] | Cemetery Perpetual Care [Member]
Schedule of unrealized loss on investments [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Fair Value	286,771
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	9,614
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Fair Value	36,450
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	6,482
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	323,221
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses	$ 16,096

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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share, Unfunded Commitments	$ 31,000
Available-for-sale securities, estimated maturity date, maximum	2,040
Investment Earnings, Net	$ 67,600	$ 59,600	$ 72,400
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net	$ 1,360	$ 1,812	$ 8,072

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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Components of Other Income, Nonoperating [Line Items]
Deferred preneed funeral and cemetery receipts held in trust, excluding accrued expenses	$ 3,104,746	$ 2,977,612
Accrued trust operating payables and other	(950)	(4,226)
Deferred preneed receipts held in trust	3,103,796	2,973,386
Care trusts’ corpus	1,408,243	1,319,564
Total other income, net	(631)	(132)	$ 1,780
Operating Segments [Member]
Components of Other Income, Nonoperating [Line Items]
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	100,284	100,477	574,333
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	(113,806)	(79,203)	(303,314)
Impairment charges	(11,857)	(9,676)	(109,958)
Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income	94,321	109,294	92,391
Trust expenses and income taxes	(65,128)	(85,967)	(74,666)
Net trust investment income	3,814	34,925	178,786
Investment Income, Nonoperating, Effect on Deferred Preneed Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trust Corpus'	(3,814)	(34,925)	(178,786)
Other income, net	(631)	(132)	1,780
Total other income, net	(631)	(132)	1,780
Funeral [Member]
Components of Other Income, Nonoperating [Line Items]
Deferred preneed funeral and cemetery receipts held in trust, excluding accrued expenses	1,546,517	1,515,113
Accrued trust operating payables and other	(589)	(1,381)
Deferred preneed receipts held in trust	1,545,928	1,513,732
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	38,704	42,034	168,567
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	(46,432)	(31,403)	(113,748)
Impairment charges	(4,625)	(3,519)	(41,846)
Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income	20,299	25,952	22,668
Trust expenses and income taxes	(20,190)	(21,852)	(19,590)
Net trust investment income	(12,244)	11,212	16,051
Investment Income, Nonoperating, Effect on Deferred Preneed Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trust Corpus'	12,244	(11,212)	(16,051)
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	1,558,229	1,462,499
Accrued trust operating payables and other	(361)	(2,845)
Deferred preneed receipts held in trust	1,557,868	1,459,654
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	53,253	51,510	271,507
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	(60,795)	(40,092)	(138,473)
Impairment charges	(5,872)	(4,345)	(60,040)
Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income	17,428	27,089	17,597
Trust expenses and income taxes	(22,137)	(31,472)	(20,833)
Net trust investment income	(18,123)	2,690	69,758
Investment Income, Nonoperating, Effect on Deferred Preneed Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trust Corpus'	18,123	(2,690)	(69,758)
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	778	137
Care trusts' corpus, excluding accrued expenses	1,407,465	1,319,427
Care trusts’ corpus	1,408,243	1,319,564
Realized gains from sales of available-for-sale securities	8,327	6,933	134,259
Realized losses from sales of available-for-sale securities	(6,579)	(7,708)	(51,093)
Impairment charges	(1,360)	(1,812)	(8,072)
Interest, dividend, and other ordinary income	56,594	56,253	52,126
Trust expenses and income taxes	(22,801)	(32,643)	(34,243)
Net trust investment income	34,181	21,023	92,977
Investment Income, Nonoperating, Effect on Deferred Preneed Receipts Held in Trust and Care Trust Corpus'	(34,181)	(21,023)	(92,977)
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	(631)	(132)	1,780
Total other income, net	$ (631)	$ (132)	$ 1,780

Goodwill and Intangible Asset76

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning balance	$ 1,796,340	$ 1,810,853
Goodwill, net, beginning balance	1,796,340
Increase in goodwill related to acquisitions	26,658	12,661
Reduction of goodwill related to divestitures	(26,824)	(9,170)
Effect of foreign currency and other	2,907	(18,004)
Goodwill, Period Increase (Decrease)	2,741	(14,513)
Goodwill, ending balance		1,796,340	$ 1,810,853
Goodwill, net, ending balance	1,799,081	1,796,340
Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill)	1,200
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	379,502	385,863
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	268,061	257,157
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	111,441	128,706
Indefinite-Lived Trade Names	245,984	230,659
Other Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets	10,640	10,640
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	256,624	241,299
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	368,065	370,005
Amortization of intangible assets	30,956	31,459	36,640
Future Amortization Expense, Year One	11,718
Future Amortization Expense, Year Two	10,961
Future Amortization Expense, Year Three	7,711
Future Amortization Expense, Year Four	6,613
Future Amortization Expense, Year Five	6,504
Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill)	1,200
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	211,549	206,822
Customer Relationships [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	146,876	154,364
Trade Names [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	9,150	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	1,490,502	1,510,879
Goodwill, net, beginning balance	1,490,502
Increase in goodwill related to acquisitions	26,809	6,460
Reduction of goodwill related to divestitures	(26,554)	(8,908)
Effect of foreign currency and other	2,898	(17,929)
Goodwill, Period Increase (Decrease)	3,153	(20,377)
Goodwill, ending balance		1,490,502	1,510,879
Goodwill, net, ending balance	1,493,655	1,490,502
Amortization of intangible assets	20,442	22,636	24,841
Cemetery [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning balance	305,838	299,974
Goodwill, net, beginning balance	305,838
Increase in goodwill related to acquisitions	(151)	6,201
Reduction of goodwill related to divestitures	(270)	(262)
Effect of foreign currency and other	9	(75)
Goodwill, Period Increase (Decrease)	(412)	5,864
Goodwill, ending balance		305,838	299,974
Goodwill, net, ending balance	305,426	305,838
Amortization of intangible assets	$ 10,440	$ 8,748	$ 11,700
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, 2016

[1]

Sep. 30, 2016

[1]

Jun. 30, 2016

[1]

Mar. 31, 2016

[1]

Dec. 31, 2015

[1]

Sep. 30, 2015

[1]

Jun. 30, 2015

[1]

Mar. 31, 2015

[1]

Dec. 31, 2016

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Income Taxes [Abstract]

United States

$ 287,946

$ 331,622

$ 360,800

Foreign

38,712

38,729

41,800

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

$ 139,289

$ 74,963

$ 32,639

$ 79,767

$ 113,699

$ 74,045

$ 84,489

$ 98,118

$ 326,658

$ 370,351

$ 402,600

[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, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Current: United States									$ 113,629	$ 94,502	$ 67,511
Current: Foreign									12,084	9,270	10,859
Current: State									16,150	13,207	17,939
Total current income taxes									141,863	116,979	96,309
Deferred: United States									(19,496)	15,918	108,514
Deferred: Foreign									22,708	(878)	(653)
Deferred: State									4,278	3,008	21,810
Provision for deferred income taxes									7,490	18,048	129,671
Provision for income taxes	$ (72,872)	$ (27,422)	$ (16,746)	$ (32,313)	$ (41,249)	$ (26,118)	$ (31,007)	$ (36,653)	149,353	135,027	225,980
Income Taxes Paid									115,000	105,400	106,300
Proceeds from Income Tax Refunds									$ 2,400	$ 1,900	$ 600

Income Taxes Income Taxes Det79

Income Taxes Income Taxes Details 3 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Computed tax provision at the applicable federal statutory income tax rate									$ 114,331	$ 129,623	$ 140,910
State and local taxes, net of federal income tax benefits									13,279	10,542	25,736
Foreign jurisdiction differences									(2,557)	(5,183)	(4,424)
Permanent differences associated with dispositions									9,267	2,909	61,892
Changes in uncertain tax positions									5,669	4,046	4,624
Foreign Valuation Allowance, Amount									15,850	0	0
Other									(6,486)	(6,910)	(2,758)
Provision for income taxes	$ (72,872)	$ (27,422)	$ (16,746)	$ (32,313)	$ (41,249)	$ (26,118)	$ (31,007)	$ (36,653)	$ 149,353	$ 135,027	$ 225,980
Total effective tax rate									45.70%	36.50%	56.10%

Income Taxes Income Taxes Det80

Income Taxes Income Taxes Details 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Inventories and cemetery property	$ (335,795)	$ (338,143)
Property and equipment	(149,450)	(168,265)
Intangibles	(294,251)	(302,217)
Other	(6,980)	(12,047)
Deferred tax liabilities	(786,476)	(820,672)
Loss and tax credit carry-forwards	157,795	171,725
Deferred revenue on preneed funeral and cemetery contracts	223,174	226,483
Accrued liabilities	84,230	102,351
Deferred tax assets	465,199	500,559
Less: Valuation allowance	(132,500)	(126,654)
Net deferred income tax liability	$ (453,777)	$ (446,767)

Income Taxes Income Taxes Det81

Income Taxes Income Taxes Details 5 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Non-current deferred tax assets	$ 861	$ 23,817
Non-current deferred tax liabilities	(454,638)	(470,584)
Net deferred income tax liability	(453,777)	(446,767)
Impact of of certain tax items	34,000	12,700
Undistributed Earnings from Foreign Subsidiaries	$ 308,600	$ 259,800

Income Taxes Income Taxes Det82

Income Taxes Income Taxes Details 6 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 182,545	$ 191,680	$ 177,830
Reductions to tax positions related to the current year			(1,075)
Additions to tax positions related to prior years			10,085
Reductions to tax positions related to prior years			(2,325)
Reductions to tax positions related to the acquisition offset to goodwill			(1,556)
Additions to tax positions related to the current year		3,235	8,721
Reductions to tax positions related to prior years	(4,219)	(12,370)
Ending Balance	178,326	182,545	191,680
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate	161,800	157,200	154,800
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued	57,300	51,600	47,600
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense	$ 5,700	$ 4,000	$ 3,100

Income Taxes Income Taxes Det83

Income Taxes Income Taxes Details 7 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Year One	$ 241,619
Year Two	111,084
Year Three	143,491
Year Four	183,271
Thereafter	3,120,058
Operating Loss Carryforwards	3,799,523
Loss Carry Forwards, Unexpiring	52,000
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount	15,900
Loss and tax credit carry-forwards	157,795	$ 171,725
Valuation allowance	132,500	$ 126,654
Federal
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Year One	0
Year Two	0
Year Three	0
Year Four	200
Thereafter	1,900
Operating Loss Carryforwards	2,100
Loss and tax credit carry-forwards	914
Valuation allowance	0
State
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Year One	241,619
Year Two	111,084
Year Three	143,491
Year Four	183,071
Thereafter	3,111,526
Operating Loss Carryforwards	3,790,791
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount	9,600
Loss and tax credit carry-forwards	136,462
Valuation allowance	101,417
Foreign
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Year One	0
Year Two	0
Year Three	0
Year Four	0
Thereafter	6,632
Operating Loss Carryforwards	6,632
Loss and tax credit carry-forwards	20,419
Valuation allowance	$ 31,083

Debt Level 4 (Details)

Debt Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Increase (Decrease), Net	$ 135,000
Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations	33,119	$ 28,601	$ 29,380
Repayments of Debt		357,600
Repayments of Long-term Debt	36,414	160,220	230,561
Repayments of Other Debt	200	200
Losses on early extinguishment of debt, net	(22,503)	(6,918)	(29,158)
Notes Payable to Bank, Noncurrent	0	310,000
Bank credit facility		500,000		$ 500,000
Total debt	3,286,590	3,124,428
Current maturities of long-term debt	(89,974)	(86,823)
Less current maturities	89,974	86,823
Total long-term debt	$ 3,196,616	$ 3,037,605
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	4.68%	5.18%
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	63.00%	76.00%
Next Twelve Months	$ 94,725
Year Two	350,609
Year Three	74,169
Year Four	295,231
Year Five	647,792
After Year Five	1,848,735
Long-term Debt, Gross	3,311,261
Letters of Credit, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	32,700	$ 175,000		100,000
Interest Paid	156,950	164,748	$ 175,327
Payments in 2017	152,682
Payments in 2018	147,342
Payments in 2019	132,269
Payments in 2020	130,745
Payments in 2021	99,515
Payments in 2022 and thereafter	197,077
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium	11,300
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense	(32,984)	(42,491)
April 2016 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt		197,400
June 2017 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt	295,000
July 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt	310,000	60,000
Bank credit facility	0	270,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt	280,000	100,000
Bank Credit Facility due March 2021 [Domain]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Bank credit facility	350,000	0
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity				$ 700,000
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized pricing discounts and other	8,313	8,636
Unsecured Debt [Member] | June 2017 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes	0	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	850,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | July 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Bank credit facility	0	270,000
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Obligations under capital leases	208,758	204,246
Mortgages [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Mortgage notes and other debt, maturities through 2047	$ 3,753	$ 4,037

Debt Debt, Textuals (Details)

Debt Debt, Textuals (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	4.68%	5.18%
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	63.00%	76.00%
Notes Payable to Bank, Noncurrent	$ 0	$ 310,000
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt	$ 300,000
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding		500,000		$ 500,000
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage	0.30%
Letters of Credit, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$ 32,700	175,000		100,000
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	317,300
Principal payments on capital leases	33,119	28,601	$ 29,380
Repayments of Other Debt	200	200
Repayments of Debt		357,600
Losses on early extinguishment of debt, net	(22,503)	(6,918)	(29,158)
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium	11,300
Capital Lease Obligations Incurred	41,609	55,941	$ 35,422
Pledged Assets Separately Reported, Finance Receivables Pledged as Collateral, at Fair Value	4,700	7,000
Pledged Assets, Other, Not Separately Reported on Statement of Financial Position	1,400	1,500
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	3,240,560	3,101,760
Bank Credit Agreement				1,400,000
Term Loan, Maximum Borrowing Capacity				600,000
Debt Issuance Costs, Line of Credit Arrangements, Net	5,200
July 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	0	270,000
Repayments of Debt	310,000	60,000
April 2016 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt		197,400
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt	280,000	100,000
June 2017 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt	295,000
March 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes Payable to Bank, Noncurrent	673,750	0
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt	700,000
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	350,000	0
Repayments of Debt	26,300
Bank Credit Facility due March 2021 [Domain]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity				$ 700,000
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt	360,000
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	350,000	0
Unsecured Debt [Member] | July 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	0	270,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | June 2017 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes	0	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

Credit Risk and Fair Value of86

Credit Risk and Fair Value of Financial Instruments Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Bank credit facility		$ 500,000	$ 500,000
Notes Payable	$ 3,753		4,047
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	3,240,560		3,101,760
May 2024 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	884,000		884,094
June 2017 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	0		314,618
October 2018 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	272,353		279,375
November 2020 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	205,000		201,500
November 2021 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	175,500		176,438
January 2022 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	444,614		445,188
April 2027 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Senior Notes	231,590		216,500
July 2018 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Bank credit facility	0		270,000
Term Loan	0		310,000
March 2021 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Bank credit facility	350,000		0
Term Loan	$ 673,750		$ 0

Commitments and Contingencies87

Commitments and Contingencies Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	$ 31,900	$ 33,300	$ 37,200
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current	14,201
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years	12,122
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years	10,028
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years	8,542
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years	7,564
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter	67,655
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due	120,112
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current	59,598
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years	52,353
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years	21,533
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years	29,528
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years	24,829
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter	20,917
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due	208,758
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments	(16,417)
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Net Minimum Payments	192,341
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in One Year	6,518
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Two Years	5,609
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Three Years	5,136
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Four Years	3,437
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Five Years	2,129
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Six Years and Thereafter	4,315
Agreements, Future Payments Due	27,144
Self Insurance Reserve	78,000	$ 76,600
Employment Agreement [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in One Year	1,692
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Two Years	1,035
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Three Years	818
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Four Years	375
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Five Years	107
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Six Years and Thereafter	0
Agreements, Future Payments Due	4,027
Consulting Agreement [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in One Year	185
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Two Years	138
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Three Years	115
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Four Years	45
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Five Years	0
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Six Years and Thereafter	0
Agreements, Future Payments Due	483
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in One Year	4,641
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Two Years	4,436
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Three Years	4,203
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Four Years	3,017
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Five Years	2,022
Agreements, Future Payments, Due in Six Years and Thereafter	4,315
Agreements, Future Payments Due	$ 22,634
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	2 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 13, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired	1,969,289	8,811,847	12,455,281
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	$ 16,492	$ 6,164
Other comprehensive income attributable to parent		10,331	$ (53,283)	$ (32,096)
Reclassification of foreign currency translation adjustments to discontinued operations		0	0	(3,114)
Balance at end of period		16,492	6,164
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Par Value Method	$ 57,100	$ 227,900	$ 345,300
Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share	$ 29	$ 25.87	$ 27.72
Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	$ 16,492	$ 6,164	$ 59,414	88,441
Other comprehensive income attributable to parent		10,328	(53,250)	(32,141)
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		16,492	6,164	59,414
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		120,573,000	(85,140)	(166,570)
Reclassification of net unrealized loss activity		(120,573,000)	85,140	166,570
Balance at end of period		0	0	0
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	$ 16,492	6,164	59,414	88,441
Other comprehensive income attributable to parent		10,328	(53,250)	(32,141)
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		120,573,000	(85,140)	(166,570)
Reclassification of net unrealized loss activity		(120,573,000)	85,140	166,570
Balance at end of period		$ 16,492	$ 6,164	$ 59,414

Equity Textuals (Details)

Equity Textuals (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	2 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 13, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2015
Purchase of noncontrolling interest		$ 1,961	$ 2,075	$ 15,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized		1,000,000
Common stock, shares authorized		500,000,000	500,000,000
Common stock, shares, issued		195,403,644	200,859,676
Common stock, shares outstanding		189,405,244	195,772,876
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired	1,969,289	8,811,847	12,455,281
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Par Value Method	$ 57,100	$ 227,900	$ 345,300
Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share	$ 29	$ 25.87	$ 27.72
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount		$ 400,000
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount		$ 366,600
Dividends declared per share	$ 0.13	$ 0.51	$ 0.44	$ 0.34
Payments of Dividends, Common Stock		$ 98,418	$ 87,570	$ 71,517
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired		11.00%			10.00%
Wilson Financial Group [Member]
Purchase of noncontrolling interest		$ 1,918

Share-Based Compensation Leve90

Share-Based Compensation Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total pretax employee share-based compensation expense included in net income	$ 14,056	$ 13,843	$ 13,127
Income tax benefit related to share-based compensation included in net income	$ 6,427	$ 5,068	$ 7,368
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Exercised	0	(122,000)	(761,000)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options				10,775,136
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				$ 16.49
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options				6,938,591
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price				$ 13.69
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	$ 5
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				2,032,763
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	1 year 8 months 12 days
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance				$ 8.42
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options				2,032,763
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price				$ 8.42
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	$ 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				1,361,450
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	3 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				$ 11.18
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options				1,361,450
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price				$ 11.18
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	$ 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				3,548,915
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	4 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				$ 16.50
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options				2,801,293
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price				$ 16.26
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	$ 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				3,832,008
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	6 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				$ 22.65
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options				743,085
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price				$ 22.97
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Dividend yield	2.00%	1.80%	1.80%
Expected volatility	19.70%	23.30%	27.10%
Risk-free interest rate	1.00%	1.30%	1.10%
Expected holding period	4 years	4 years	4 years
Total pretax employee share-based compensation expense included in net income	$ 7,600	$ 7,900	$ 7,500
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Options outstanding at beginning of period	11,047,920
Options outstanding at beginning of period, weighted average exercise price	$ 13.98
Granted	1,863,700
Granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 22.28
Exercised	(2,108,212)
Exercised, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 8.38
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period	(28,272)
Cancelled, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 20.98
Options outstanding at end of period	10,775,136	11,047,920
Options outstanding at end of period, weighted average exercise price	$ 16.49	$ 13.98
Options exercisable at December 31, 2011	11,047,920	11,047,920		10,775,136
Options exercisable at December 31, 2011, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 13.98	$ 13.98		$ 16.49
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number				6,938,591
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price				$ 13.69
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	$ 5,600	$ 5,900	$ 5,700
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward]
Nonvested restricted shares at beginning of period	573,739
Nonvested restricted shares at beginning of period, weighted average grant date fair value	$ 19.32
Granted	241,510
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 22.28
Vested	(313,247)
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 18.14
Nonvested restricted shares at end of period	500,744	573,739
Nonvested restricted shares at end of period, weighted average grant date fair value	$ 21.48	$ 19.32
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period	(1,258)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 20.85
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total pretax employee share-based compensation expense included in net income	$ 800
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward]
Nonvested restricted shares at beginning of period	0
Nonvested restricted shares at beginning of period, weighted average grant date fair value	$ 0
Granted	130,660
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 25.72
Vested	(1,950)
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 25.72
Nonvested restricted shares at end of period	123,510	0
Nonvested restricted shares at end of period, weighted average grant date fair value	$ 25.72	$ 0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period	(5,200)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 25.72

Share-Based Compensation Share-

Share-Based Compensation Share-Based Compensation, Textuals (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Vesting rate	33.33%
Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance	12,171,075	1,531,410
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options	$ 34,000	$ 43,500	$ 31,600
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value	$ 128,300
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value		$ 102,100
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 4.01	$ 3.79	$ 3.34
Fair Value of Stock Options Vested	$ 7,690	$ 7,973	$ 6,814
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value	37,284	52,513	42,048
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	17,662	31,809	32,376
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 14,056	13,843	13,127
2016 Long Term Incentive Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	13,000,000
Long Term Incentive 1996 Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	44,000,000
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period	28,272
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 7,600	7,900	7,500
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized	$ 8,100
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	$ 5,600	$ 5,900	$ 5,700
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized	$ 5,800
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	1 year 8 months 12 days
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 800
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized	$ 2,400
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	2 years 1 month 6 days
Stock Option Plan Exercise Range 1 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit	$ 5
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit	10
Stock Option Plan Exercise Range 2 [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 3 [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
Stock Option Plan Exercise Range 4 [Member]
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

Retirement Plans Retirement P92

Retirement Plans Retirement Plans Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Support, Methodology and Source Data	0.5
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	$ 1,179	$ 1,198	$ 1,293
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses)	259	(1,327)	2,401
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost	1,438	(129)	3,694
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation	32,305	36,920
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	1,179	1,198	1,293
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Net (Gains) Losses	259	(1,327)
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid	(3,665)	(4,486)
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation	30,078	32,305	36,920
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	3,665	4,486
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid	(3,665)	(4,486)
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0	$ 0
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	(30,078)	(32,305)
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation	30,078	32,305
Defined Benefit Pension Plan Liabilities, Current	(3,448)	(3,723)
Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent	(26,630)	(28,582)
Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities	(30,078)	(32,305)
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Amount of Plan Participants' Future Benefits Covered by Insurance Contracts Issued by Employer or Related Parties	47,500	48,900
Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance, Retirement Plans	$ 37,000	$ 37,700
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate	3.76%	3.86%	3.42%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate	3.96%	2.47%	3.69%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase	0.00%
Year One	$ 3,448
Year Two	3,237
Year Three	3,166
Year Four	2,739
Year Five	2,428
Years 2022 through 2026	9,959
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized	$ 32,500	$ 30,800	$ 26,800

Segment Reporting Level 4 (Deta

Segment Reporting Level 4 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016		Sep. 30, 2016		Jun. 30, 2016		Mar. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers																	$ 3,031,137	$ 2,986,041	$ 2,994,011
Interest expense																	(162,093)	(172,897)	(177,571)
Depreciation and amortization																	147,233	141,456	140,002
Depreciation and amortization																	147,233	141,456	140,002
Amortization of intangible assets																	30,956	31,459	36,640
Amortization of cemetery property																	66,745	62,407	60,439
Total assets	$ 12,038,149								$ 11,676,397								12,038,149	11,676,397
Capital expenditures																	193,446	150,986	144,499
Gross profits from reportable segments	210,777		$ 140,745		$ 161,989		$ 162,923		187,802		$ 141,679		$ 166,767		$ 178,341		676,434	674,589	675,685
General and administrative expenses																	(137,730)	(130,813)	(184,749)
(Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net																	(26,819)	6,522	116,613
Operating income	179,329		114,386		94,498		123,672		157,055		124,548		127,580		141,115		511,885	550,298	607,549
Losses on early extinguishment of debt, net																	(22,503)	(6,918)	(29,158)
Other (expense) income, net																	(631)	(132)	1,780
Income before income taxes	139,289	[1]	$ 74,963	[1]	$ 32,639	[1]	$ 79,767	[1]	113,699	[1]	$ 74,045	[1]	$ 84,489	[1]	$ 98,118	[1]	$ 326,658	$ 370,351	402,600
Long-lived assets																	5,971,123	5,978,455
UNITED STATES
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers																	$ 2,848,876	$ 2,805,407	2,792,009
Interest expense																	(162,341)	(172,697)	(177,245)
Depreciation and amortization																	138,560	132,393	129,510
Amortization of intangible assets																	30,427	30,856	35,895
Amortization of cemetery property																	61,449	58,429	55,679
(Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net																	(27,658)	1,778	116,046
Operating income																	$ 460,387	$ 498,634	557,608
Long-lived assets																	5,705,070	5,729,721
CANADA
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers																	$ 182,261	$ 180,634	202,002
Interest expense																	(248)	(200)	(326)
Depreciation and amortization																	8,673	9,063	10,492
Amortization of intangible assets																	529	603	745
Amortization of cemetery property																	5,296	3,978	4,760
(Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net																	839	4,744	567
Operating income																	$ 51,498	$ 51,664	49,941
Long-lived assets																	266,053	248,734
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization																	$ 147,233
Amortization of intangible assets																	30,956
Amortization of cemetery property																	66,745
Total assets	12,038,149																12,038,149
Capital expenditures																	193,446
Gross profits from reportable segments																	676,434
Other (expense) income, net																	(631)	$ (132)	1,780
Funeral [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers																	1,868,883	1,888,828	1,920,475
Interest expense																	(3,910)	(4,230)	(4,714)
Depreciation and amortization																	106,251	102,937	101,801
Amortization of intangible assets																	20,442	22,636	24,841
Amortization of cemetery property																	0	0	0
Total assets	5,156,144								5,141,544								5,156,144	5,141,544
Capital expenditures																	68,434	52,880	52,610
Gross profits from reportable segments																	364,237	393,156	409,701
Other (expense) income, net																	0	0	0
Cemetery [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers																	1,162,254	1,097,213	1,073,536
Interest expense																	(101)	(450)	(510)
Depreciation and amortization																	31,432	29,783	28,745
Amortization of intangible assets																	10,440	8,748	11,700
Amortization of cemetery property																	66,745	62,407	60,439
Total assets	6,484,317								6,181,877								6,484,317	6,181,877
Capital expenditures																	113,395	84,345	78,588
Gross profits from reportable segments																	312,197	281,433	265,984
Other (expense) income, net																	0	0	0
Corporate Elimination [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers																	0	0	0
Interest expense																	(158,082)	(168,217)	(172,347)
Depreciation and amortization																	9,550	8,736	9,456
Amortization of intangible assets																	74	75	99
Amortization of cemetery property																	0	0	0
Total assets	$ 397,688								352,976								397,688	352,976
Capital expenditures																	11,617	13,761	13,301
Gross profits from reportable segments																	0	0	0
Other (expense) income, net																	$ (631)	(132)	1,780
Consolidated Entities [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers																		2,986,041	2,994,011
Interest expense																		(172,897)	(177,571)
Depreciation and amortization																		141,456	140,002
Amortization of intangible assets																		31,459	36,640
Amortization of cemetery property																		62,407	60,439
Total assets									$ 11,676,397									11,676,397
Capital expenditures																		150,986	144,499
Gross profits from reportable segments																		$ 674,589	$ 675,685
[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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash	$ 146,684	$ 106,831
Commercial paper and temporary investments	48,302	27,768
Cash and cash equivalents	194,986	134,599	$ 177,335	$ 141,584
Receivables, net:
Notes receivable	1,259	2,056
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current	1,514	2,153
Other	32,514	22,637
Receivables, net	98,455	90,462
Other current assets:
Income tax receivable	3,609	15,662
Prepaid insurance	4,437	5,398
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current	11,978	12,587
Other Assets, Current	14,500	13,508
Other	34,524	47,155
Cemetery Property, Undeveloped Land	1,184,710	1,186,861
Cemetery Property, Developed	592,225	566,154
Cemetery property, at cost	1,776,935	1,753,015
Land	595,096	591,407
Buildings and Improvements, Gross	1,879,553	1,834,403
Machinery and Equipment, Gross	549,879	530,195
Leasehold Improvements, Gross	33,900	52,121
Capital Leased Assets, Gross	234,411	220,784
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	3,292,839	3,228,910
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment	(1,328,262)	(1,253,867)
Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Property, Plant, and Equipment Other, Accumulated Depreciation	(136,990)	(128,321)
Property and equipment, net	1,827,587	1,846,722
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	368,065	370,005
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent	4,542	3,907
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent	861	23,817
Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Noncurrent	9,598	10,229
Allowance for Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Noncurrent	11,334	11,334
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent	64,635	65,694
Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance	119,819	108,726
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:
Accounts payable	155,802	140,019
Accrued compensation	88,392	86,908
Interest Payable, Current	27,991	28,673
Accrual for Taxes Other than Income Taxes, Current	12,883	11,594
Self Insurance Reserve, Current	77,993	76,611
Bank Overdrafts	20,927	21,808
Other Accrued Liabilities, Current	55,948	57,203
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	439,936	422,816
Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent	26,630	28,582
Deferred Compensation Liability, Classified, Noncurrent	105,013	92,199
Customer Funds	52,068	55,153
Tax liability	235,625	234,176
Payable to ECF	77,148	71,133
Other Assets, Noncurrent	13,838	15,704
Total merchandise revenues	1,524,229	1,457,590	1,433,972
Total services revenues	1,345,518	1,363,586	1,390,219
Other revenues	161,390	164,865	169,820
Total revenues	3,031,137	2,986,041	2,994,011
Total cost of merchandise	776,598	748,597	777,322
Total cost of services	731,669	727,491	700,796
Overhead and other expenses	846,436	835,364	840,208
Total costs and expenses	2,354,703	2,311,452	2,318,326
Deferred charges and other assets	567,520	582,378
Other liabilities	510,322	496,947
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid	$ (1,435)	$ (5,571)	$ (1,022)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period	0	122	761
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares	0	(122)	(761)
Capital Lease Obligations Incurred	$ 41,609	$ 55,941	$ 35,422
Funeral [Member]
Receivables, net:
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current	46,917	52,184
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current	1,881	3,343
Other current assets:
Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance	271,248	271,116
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:
Total merchandise revenues	611,441	608,335	616,992
Total services revenues	1,126,474	1,146,124	1,167,385
Total revenues	1,868,883	1,888,828	1,920,475
Total cost of merchandise	287,272	290,574	292,031
Total cost of services	627,099	624,294	630,357
Cemetery [Member]
Receivables, net:
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current	17,765	13,585
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:
Total merchandise revenues	912,788	849,255	816,980
Total services revenues	219,044	217,462	222,834
Total revenues	1,162,254	1,097,213	1,073,536
Total cost of merchandise	489,326	458,023	485,291
Total cost of services	$ 104,570	$ 103,197	$ 70,439

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, 2016		Sep. 30, 2016		Jun. 30, 2016		Mar. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Income from continuing operations attributable to common stockholders, basic																	$ 177,038	$ 234,162	$ 170,283
Income from continuing operations — diluted																	177,081	234,212	170,334
Net income attributable to common stockholders	$ 66,246		$ 47,727		$ 15,620		$ 47,445		$ 72,354		$ 47,448		$ 52,595		$ 61,375		177,038	233,772	172,469
After tax interest on convertible debt																	43	50	51
Income from discontinued operations, net									$ 0		$ 0		$ (390)		$ 0		0	(390)	2,186
Net income — diluted																	$ 177,081	$ 233,822	$ 172,520
Weighted average shares (denominator):
Weighted average shares — basic																	193,086	200,356	210,741
Convertible debt																	121	121	121
Weighted average shares — diluted																	196,042	204,450	214,200
Net income attributable to common stockholders, basic	$ 0.35	[1]	$ 0.25	[1]	$ 0.08	[1]	$ 0.24	[1]	$ 0.37	[1]	$ 0.24	[1]	$ 0.26	[1]	$ 0.30	[1]	$ 0.92	$ 1.17	$ 0.82
Net income attributable to common stockholders, diluted	$ 0.34	[1]	$ 0.24	[1]	$ 0.08	[1]	$ 0.24	[1]	$ 0.36	[1]	$ 0.23	[1]	$ 0.25	[1]	$ 0.30	[1]	0.90	1.14	0.81
Income from continuing operations attributable to common stockholders, per share, basic																		1.17	0.81
Income from continuing operations attributable to common stockholders, per share, diluted																		1.14	0.80
Income from discontinued operations per share, basic																	0	0	0.01
Income from discontinued operations per share, diluted																	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0.01
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount																	982,000	3,000	1,491,000
Stock Options [Member]
Weighted average shares (denominator):
Share based compensation																	2,823	3,973	3,338
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Weighted average shares (denominator):
Share based compensation																	12	0	0
[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 ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2015
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Acquisition Spend	$ 72.9	$ 68.9	$ 25.7
Payments for (Proceeds from) Delayed Tax Exempt Exchange	$ 4	$ 27.7	$ 10.4
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired	11.00%			10.00%
Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Percentage			90.00%
Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Including Subsequent Acquisition, Percentage			100.00%

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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
(Losses) gains on divestitures					$ 7,829	$ 13,363	$ 122,535
Impairment losses					(34,648)	(6,841)	(5,922)
(Losses) gains on divestitures and impairment charges, net					(26,819)	6,522	116,613
Income from discontinued operations, net	$ 0	$ 0	$ (390)	$ 0	$ 0	$ (390)	$ 2,186

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, 2016		Sep. 30, 2016		Jun. 30, 2016		Mar. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 809,053		$ 721,467		$ 751,398		$ 749,219		$ 769,280		$ 714,453		$ 754,219		$ 748,089		$ 3,031,137	$ 2,986,041	$ 2,994,011
Costs and expenses	(598,276)		(580,722)		(589,409)		(586,296)		(581,478)		(572,774)		(587,452)		(569,748)		(2,354,703)	(2,311,452)	(2,318,326)
Gross profits	210,777		140,745		161,989		162,923		187,802		141,679		166,767		178,341		676,434	674,589	675,685
Operating income	179,329		114,386		94,498		123,672		157,055		124,548		127,580		141,115		511,885	550,298	607,549
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	139,289	[1]	74,963	[1]	32,639	[1]	79,767	[1]	113,699	[1]	74,045	[1]	84,489	[1]	98,118	[1]	326,658	370,351	402,600
Provision for income taxes	(72,872)		(27,422)		(16,746)		(32,313)		(41,249)		(26,118)		(31,007)		(36,653)		149,353	135,027	225,980
Net income from continuing operations									72,450		47,927		53,482		61,465		177,305	235,324	176,620
Net loss from discontinued operations, net of tax									0		0		(390)		0		0	(390)	2,186
Net income	66,417		47,541		15,893		47,454		72,450		47,927		53,092		61,465		177,305	234,934	178,806
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(171)		186		(273)		(9)		(96)		(479)		(497)		(90)		(267)	(1,162)	(6,337)
Net income attributable to common stockholders	$ 66,246		$ 47,727		$ 15,620		$ 47,445		$ 72,354		$ 47,448		$ 52,595		$ 61,375		$ 177,038	$ 233,772	$ 172,469
Basic — EPS	$ 0.35	[2]	$ 0.25	[2]	$ 0.08	[2]	$ 0.24	[2]	$ 0.37	[2]	$ 0.24	[2]	$ 0.26	[2]	$ 0.30	[2]	$ 0.92	$ 1.17	$ 0.82
Earnings per share, diluted	$ 0.34	[2]	$ 0.24	[2]	$ 0.08	[2]	$ 0.24	[2]	$ 0.36	[2]	$ 0.23	[2]	$ 0.25	[2]	$ 0.30	[2]	$ 0.90	$ 1.14	$ 0.81
[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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Current [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Beginning Balance		$ (5,496)	$ (8,546)	$ (11,637)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Cost and Expense		(10,776)	(6,083)	(7,376)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Other Accounts	[1]	(66,808)	(63,964)	(55,573)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Write-Offs	[2]	(79,685)	(73,097)	(66,040)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Ending Balance		(3,395)	(5,496)	(8,546)
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Noncurrent [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Beginning Balance		(11,334)	(11,259)	(10,986)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Cost and Expense		0	0	0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Other Accounts	[1]	0	(75)	(273)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Write-Offs	[2]	0	0	0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Ending Balance		(11,334)	(11,334)	(11,259)
Asset Allowance for Cancellation, Preneed Funeral and Preneed Cemetery [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Beginning Balance		(105,773)	(107,040)	(106,793)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Cost and Expense		(1,411)	(5,016)	(2,950)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Other Accounts	[1]	(6,216)	(6,283)	(2,703)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Write-Offs	[2]	(8,660)	0	0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Ending Balance		(104,740)	(105,773)	(107,040)
Revenue Allowance for Cancellation, Deferred Preneed Funeral and Cemetery [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Beginning Balance		(121,548)	(125,030)	(149,288)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Cost and Expense		0	0	0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Other Accounts	[1]	(4,635)	(3,482)	(24,258)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Write-Offs	[2]	0	0	0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Ending Balance		(116,913)	(121,548)	(125,030)
Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Beginning Balance		(126,654)	(134,201)	(114,719)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Cost and Expense		(6,336)	(5,988)	(21,285)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged (Credited) to Other Accounts	[1]	(490)	(1,559)	(1,803)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Write-Offs	[2]	0	0	0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Ending Balance		$ (132,500)	$ (126,654)	$ (134,201)
[1]	Primarily relates to acquisitions and dispositions of operations.
[2]	Uncollected receivables written off, net of recoveries.