Preneed Activities Preneed Activities Preneed Receivables and Trust Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019
Preneed Receivables and Trust Investments [Abstract]
Preneed receivables, net and trust investments	$ 4,835,434		$ 4,789,562
Change in amounts due for unfulfilled performance obligations	$ (42,300)	$ (3,849)

An amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Entity (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date, net of any write-downs taken for collection uncertainty on the part of the holder. Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the contract. The aggregate fair value as of the balance sheet date of financial instruments and other positions may include: (1) mortgages, mortgage-backed and asset backed securities; (2) US government and agency obligations; (3) state and municipal government obligations; (4) other sovereign government debt; (5) corporate obligations; (6) corporate equities; (7) principal investments; (8) derivative contracts; and (9) physical commodities. Includes both pledged and unpledged holdings.

No definition available.

Name:	sci_Preneedreceivablesnetandtrustinvestments
Namespace Prefix:	sci_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant