Planning a Funeral or Memorial Service

Talking about death to those closest to you, to the people you care about the most in the world, is never easy. There are several reasons it's so difficult to talk about this sensitive subject; perhaps it's the fear of saying the wrong thing or the worry that you will unintentionally hurt someone's feelings. But the other topic that must be addressed when it comes to discussing death is how to plan a funeral for a loved one who has passed.

 

Memorial services and funerals provide an opportunity for you, other family members, friends, and others who cared about the deceased, to remember and honor the person who died while simultaneously providing comfort and support to all involved. 

 

Here are a few things to know when it comes to planning a funeral:

 

Choose the Form of Burial

According to Very Well Health, when planning a funeral or memorial service, the first step is choosing the form of final body disposition which aligns best with the deceased's wishes. Whether at a cemetery plot or gravesite or in a mausoleum or entombment, traditional burial involves purchasing a casket, a cemetery plot, a grave liner, and a headstone or grave marker. Cremation, a process that uses heat/flame to reduce a body to bone fragments or ashes, is another popular alternative. Cremated remains offer surviving loved ones various options afterward; remains can be buried, scattered at a special location, or kept within a private home. 

 

Decide the Elements of the Service

Recently, funeral services have become increasingly personalized, providing a unique way to reflect the life and qualities of the deceased. As you begin planning, imagine the funeral as a meaningful way to honor and say goodbye to the person who died. A funeral can not only capture the beautiful qualities of the deceased, but it can also reflect their personal religious beliefs and provide a memorable opportunity for mourners to express their grief. Personalizing the service can come in the form of selecting an officiant to lead the service, choosing which scripture readings could be included (if any), who could deliver a eulogy, what kind of music is played, and who the pallbearers will be.

 

Don't Forget the Details

Great Western Insurance advises its clients to pay special attention to the details when planning a memorial service; this includes selecting a casket, choosing a burial container or vault, and choosing accessories. Let's explore these a little bit more. If a burial for the deceased is chosen, you must select a casket and decide whether or not it will be open or closed during the funeral. You'll also need to choose a burial container or vault, which is usually made of concrete and encloses a coffin to help prevent it from sinking. Finally, you'll also have to choose what clothing the deceased will be buried in, including jewelry, glasses, or maybe even photos of loved ones, and a favorite (or more formal) outfit. 

 

Whether planned after the death of a loved one or pre-planned, arranging a funeral or memorial service is a necessary yet exhausting and painful process. When you need extra help with planning a funeral for a loved one, A.R.N Funeral and Cremation Services understands the deep sorrow and confusion you are feeling. As a family-owned and operated business, we pride ourselves on providing a more personal and compassionate level of service for our families. Our caring staff is here to assist you with arrangements and provide pre-planning information for all walks of faith. 

 

We invite you to discover what has made A.R.N Funeral and Cremation Services the ultimate provider of creating healing experiences in the community. Visit our website today to find out more information about how we can honor your loved ones' memory in the way they deserve. 

 

 

Sources

https://www.gwic.com/Education-Center/Funeral-Planning/How-to-plan-a-funeral-step-by-step

https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-plan-a-funeral-or-memorial-service-3897584

https://www.aarp.org/home-family/friends-family/info-2020/funeral-planning-tips.html
Location: Zionsville, IN 46077, USA

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