Step-By-Step Funeral Planning

Preplanning a funeral is practical for many reasons. The first, of course, is that you are able to make your own choices about your own funeral. You can make decisions about whether you want to have a traditional burial or if you prefer cremation. You can also leave directions on special ways you want to be remembered.

Planning ahead of time also makes it easier on your family. Naturally, they will be grieving at your loss. If your funeral is already planned, then your family will not have to spend as much time making arrangements or decisions on how to memorialize you.

As we all know, however, preplanning isn’t always an option, nor is it always done. This is especially so when a death occurs unexpectedly. If you have found yourself in a position where you need to plan a funeral for a loved one, here is a step-by-step guide to help you.

1. Inform Others. Depending on the circumstances, you may need to let necessary authorities know of the person’s passing. If accidental, then certainly the local police should be notified. If your loved one was hospitalized, then the medical staff will make the necessary calls. You will also want to let others know who are close to your loved one. Family and friends should be at the top of that list.
2. Find A Funeral Home. If you loved one did not specify a particular funeral home, you will need to find one yourself. Often, family members have used certain funeral homes before, so it is worth asking them. Hospital staffs can also provide names of local funeral homes if your loved one died in the hospital.
3. Meet With The Funeral Director. The Funeral Director will be a very helpful resource to you. He or she will also be a source of comfort during this difficult time. The Funeral Director will also help you coordinate each aspect of the funeral and assist you with any and all questions you might have.
4. Purchasing Essentials. Whether you are planning a ground burial or cremation, there are certain items that need to be selected. Caskets and urns, for example, can be purchased directly from a funeral home. You will also want to consider such things as grave markers and a guest book for the funeral or memorial service.
5. Plan The Ceremony Or Memorial. There are a number of ways to honor a loved one who has passed away. From traditional religious services to celebrations of life, you will want to make plans that will meet your needs and the wishes of your loved one. You may also want to consider hosting a reception for guests after the service.

While there are many more details involved in planning a funeral or memorial, this guide will help you get a good start. At Mountain View Funeral Home, we are here to help. Serving the local community since 1951, we offer full-service funeral planning including an on-site crematory and cemetery.

Please contact us here if we can be of help to you.