Why should I plan a funeral for my loved one?
Funerals or memorials are a traditional way of acknowledging death and its finality. Such ceremonies are meant for the living to demonstrate respect for the deceased and to help bereaved individuals start the grieving process. They also offer mourners an opportunity to share stories, create memories, follow religious beliefs and customs, find solace in a support system, and come together peacefully during a time of confusion and uncertainty.
What tasks are involved in arranging a funeral?
Planning a funeral can be a challenging and emotional time, which is why we're here to support you every step of the way. Our compassionate funeral director, Marie Goolsby, and team members will be there for you. We understand that planning final arrangements can be a difficult and emotional task for families. That's why our team is here to help and support you through the process. We have the expertise to assist with up to 200 tasks during a scheduled but intimate arrangement conference. We commit to making this experience as stress-free as possible for you and your loved ones. Please take a moment to review a few examples of the services we offer.
Download the Checklist
What do funeral directors do?
At times of loss, funeral directors are compassionate and understanding, offering support and guidance in difficult times. As caregivers, advisors, and administrators, they take care of all the arrangements for the transportation of the body, complete all necessary paperwork, and work closely with the family to ensure that the funeral and final disposition of the body are carried out by the wishes of the deceased and their loved ones. With their wealth of experience, they can offer a listening ear to the bereaved and provide valuable advice on coping with grief. If further help is needed, they can also recommend sources of support from qualified professionals who can provide additional assistance.
Our funeral director, Marie Goolsby, is a highly experienced professional who naturally serves as a caregiver, advisor, and administrator. She possesses the skills, experience, and compassion necessary to carry out responsibilities such as making arrangements for the transportation of the deceased's body, completing all the required paperwork, and fulfilling the family's wishes regarding the funeral and final disposition of the body. She has obtained the necessary experience to assist the bereaved in coping with death, answer any questions related to grief, and recommend resourceful professionals to assist with adjusting to life after death.
Who should be included in the gathering or ceremony?
It's important to acknowledge that everyone who has had an impact on the life of someone who has passed away, regardless of how they were related or how long they knew each other, including family, friends, co-workers, fellow worshippers, neighbors, acquaintances, and sometimes even the wider community, plays a part in their life story. Coming together as a group can provide great comfort and support during the grieving process.
What are the expenses that come with organizing a funeral?
The funeral cost includes all the services of a funeral director (see task list above), merchandise, such as caskets and urns, and transportation. Other fees may apply. In general, funeral homes make only a modest profit.
Are any financial aid programs available to help those who can afford basic funeral essentials?
There are several options available to pay for funerals besides relying solely on family members. Veteran, union, and other organizational benefits can help cover the cost, and in certain situations, Social Security may provide a lump sum death payment. In most states, public aid allowances are available from the state, county, city, or a combination of these. Funeral directors are knowledgeable about these various benefits and can assist in obtaining them.