Losing a loved one is a difficult and emotional time for anyone. In addition to grieving, you may also need to plan a funeral. While the thought of this may be overwhelming, it’s helpful to have a checklist to ensure that all of the necessary arrangements are made.
Here’s a comprehensive to-do list to help you plan a funeral:
- Notify the Appropriate Authorities and/or Family Members
The first step in planning a funeral is to notify the appropriate authorities and/or family members of the death. This may include the local police department, the medical examiner, and/or the deceased’s next of kin.
- Contact a Funeral Home
Once the authorities have been notified, it’s time to contact a funeral home. The funeral director will be able to guide you through the process of arranging for the deceased to be transported to the funeral home.
- Choose a Date and Time for the Funeral Service
Next, you’ll need to choose a date and time for the funeral service. This will depend on the availability of the funeral home and any other arrangements that need to be made.
- Select a Location for the Funeral Service
The location of the funeral service is another important consideration. Options include a funeral home, church, or other venues. You may also want to consider the size of the location, as well as its proximity to other funeral-related activities, such as the burial site.
- Decide on the Type of Funeral Service
The type of funeral service you choose will depend on your personal and cultural beliefs, as well as the wishes of the deceased. Options include a traditional funeral, memorial service, or cremation.
- Choose an Appropriate Casket, Urn, or Other Container
Whether you choose a funeral or cremation, you will need to choose an appropriate casket, urn, or other containers for the deceased. Your funeral director will be able to help you with this decision.
- Plan and Arrange for Music, Flowers, and Decorations
Music, flowers, and decorations can add a personal touch to the funeral service. You may want to choose music that was meaningful to the deceased or select a particular type of flower arrangement.
- Choose Pallbearers
If desired, you can choose pallbearers to carry the casket during the funeral procession and/or the graveside service.
- Write an Obituary
An obituary is a written tribute to the life of the deceased. You can submit the obituary to local newspapers or online sources.
- Choose a Burial Site or Arrange for the Scattering of Ashes
If you choose a traditional funeral, you will need to choose a burial site. If you choose cremation, you may need to arrange for the scattering of ashes.
- Plan a Graveside Service
A graveside service can be a meaningful way to say goodbye to a loved one. You may want to include music, prayers, and/or a final goodbye.
- Notify Friends, Family, and Other Loved Ones
It’s important to let friends, family, and other loved ones know about the funeral arrangements. This can be done through phone calls, emails, or social media.
- Plan a Reception or Gathering
A reception or gathering after the funeral service can provide a space for friends and family to come together and support each other.
