Planning a funeral can feel overwhelming, but breaking it into simple steps can help you honor your loved one with care and respect.
Check for any pre-arrangements your loved one may have made, such as funeral insurance, a prepaid burial plot, or specific memorial wishes like songs, locations, or flowers. Begin drafting an obituary that includes their full name, age, date of passing, key life details, surviving family members, and service information.
If no funeral home was pre-selected, search for “funeral homes near me” and look for positive reviews. Contact a few to compare services, costs, and timelines. During your meeting, discuss the type of service, such as religious or military, and decide on burial or cremation.
Set the date and location for the service. If your loved one was religious, contact their place of worship to arrange an officiant. Publish the obituary in a local newspaper and online to share details. Invite loved ones, select readings, music, or scriptures, and consider creating a memory board or display.
Choose a grave marker, if needed, that reflects your loved one’s personality. Select clothing and any personal items for their burial or viewing. If desired, schedule a visitation to allow friends and family time to say goodbye.
