Funeral Arrangements – Three Tips to Make Things Easier

The most obvious way to make sure funeral arrangements are done with the least stress and worry is to make arrangements ahead of time. This is possible when elderly people have a limited life expectancy, but many times the death of a family member is unexpected.

In these cases it is important to have a few basic guidelines available that can help survivors make proper funeral arrangements without unnecessary stress.

Planning a funeral can be a complicated process with many details, so it is best to break the arrangements into segments. Make a list of steps you will need to take and arrange them in the correct sequence. In this way you can focus on each step necessary, and once you are satisfied with each step proceed to the next one.

The first action you need to take is to locate a funeral home. Look for an establishment that is able to fill your needs. Ask for referrals from previous clients, and consult with the funeral director about procedures and cost. Ask the funeral home to itemize all expenses on the paperwork you receive to help you understand it and have the ability to easily locate the total cost.

The next step involves setting a date and time for the funeral service. The funeral home will likely request the funeral is held within three days after the death of the deceased, but this may not be possible in some cases.

The funeral should be held at a convenient time of day, and you should consider those mourners most likely to attend. A viewing can be held the day before the funeral or begin an hour before the funeral. The funeral home will make arrangements for the viewing, but notify them if you do not plan to have one.

Finally, you will need to decide where the funeral will be held. Many people ask their local clergy to conduct the service in the church. The service can also be held at the funeral home chapel.

A funeral service usually lasts less than an hour, and includes a few songs that the deceased enjoyed. Loved ones may recite a poem or cite fond remembrances of the one who has passed. Most families arrange for food and beverages to be served after the funeral, or church groups or community organizations sometimes arrange that.

Funeral arrangements do not need to be stressful, if accomplished in basic steps, with the advice and wisdom of your local qualified funeral home staff.