Planning Ahead: A Comprehensive Guide
Planning a funeral involves many details, but making arrangements in advance allows you the time and space to carefully consider your options and ensure every aspect is thoughtfully addressed. Use the checklist below as a guide to help you create a personalized plan that reflects your wishes and values.
Information to Gather:
Vital Statistics
- Father’s name
- Mother’s maiden name
- Level of education
- Social Security number
Affiliations
- Memberships (fraternal, service, or union)
- Special recognitions or honors
Veteran Information (if applicable)
- Military branch and rank
- Dates of enlistment and discharge
- Conflicts or wars served
- Serial number
Steps to Plan Ahead:
General Preparations
- Collect personal details for your obituary
- Choose a charity for donations (if desired)
- Select a funeral home
- Record special instructions for your services and final disposition
Funeral Service Details
- Decide between burial or cremation
- Select a casket or cremation container
- Choose the service location and type
- Determine if you’d like a viewing or visitation
- Pick floral arrangements
- Choose photos, memorabilia, and other personal touches for display
- Consider any important customs, traditions, or religious rites
- Select clothing for burial or cremation
- Choose music, hymns, or readings
- Pick a style for stationery and memorial register books
- Arrange transportation for both your remains and your family
- Brainstorm additional ways to personalize the service and honor your life story
Participants
- Choose an officiant or clergy member to preside over the service
- Select musicians, if desired
- Choose pallbearers
- Invite friends or family members to deliver a eulogy, read scripture, or give a speech
Cemetery Arrangements
- Choose a cemetery
- Select a burial or cremation plot, or a mausoleum, if applicable
- Decide between above-ground or below-ground burial
- Design a memorial or grave marker and decide on the inscription
Taking Your Time
Pre-planning is not about making every decision all at once. It’s about giving yourself the freedom to carefully evaluate your choices and ensure your final arrangements reflect your preferences.
For personalized guidance, contact our team to schedule a one-on-one consultation. We’re here to provide compassionate support as you navigate these important decisions. Contact us today.
