Losing a loved one is one of the most traumatic and emotional moments in anyone’s life. No one can fully prepare for death, even though we all face it. It’s even more challenging to know what to do when that time comes.
The Steps Usually Involved Include:
- Finding a Funeral Home or Cremation Site: According to your loved one’s wishes, take time to find a funeral home or cremation site and arrange for transportation of the body.
- Planning the Memorial: Share your loved one’s wishes with the funeral home director. This includes specifying preferences for traditional burial or cremation, where they will be buried or have ashes scattered, flower arrangements, grave marker design, type of memorial service (religious or non-religious), open or closed casket, and any special details to include in the service such as music or readings. This can be a particularly stressful step if your loved one didn’t leave a planning wish list, as many decisions must be made.
- Arranging for Burial or Cremation: Select a casket or urn and make the necessary arrangements based on your choice. This may include meeting with the cemetery administrator to purchase a plot or vault and coordinate the burial time. You may also need to arrange the timing for the graveside service or burial ceremony.
- Handling Paperwork and Finances: After making decisions about how to honor your loved one, address the financial matters. It’s helpful to establish your available budget before beginning the planning process. Limit costs with a final expense plan of $5,000-$30,000 so the funeral home adjusts its prices for services and merchandise accordingly, preventing overcharging. Remember, they can change prices if they see that you have a bigger budget.
Planning a memorial is a deeply personal process, and there’s no single “right way” to honor your loved one. The most important thing is to create a meaningful tribute that honors your loved one’s memory and provides comfort to you and those left behind.
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