How to Plan a Funeral

The purpose of a funeral is to give meaning to an individual’s life. Planning a funeral can be a difficult task because you must consider the wishes of the deceased as well as family members. When planning a funeral you must include the service, reception and burial site.

A funeral gathers family and friends to remember the deceased while offering support and comfort. Planning a funeral can be an emotional process and a financial responsibility. Taking these steps can help you as you plan a funeral.

Step 1: Meet with family to discuss their opinions and preferences. Be sure to discuss religious preferences and how much money the family is willing to spend. Also, select someone to conduct the service. This could be a religious leader, funeral home personnel or friend of the family.

Step 2: You must determine whether you want a traditional funeral, or more casual memorial service without the body present. Choose the site where the funeral will take place. Most often it's at a church, temple or funeral home.

Step 3: Appoint pallbearers. They can be special friends or family members of the deceased. Typically, the family will choose a family member to give the eulogy.

Step 4: Choose flowers for the service and consider the music as well. When selecting music choose a piece with special meaning to the family.

Step 5: Contact the site where the funeral will take place about printed programs for the funeral service. In addition, buy a guest book for the guests to sign as they arrive. Confirm the transportation for the coffin to the funeral, removing the coffin to the burial site, and taking care of other details as requested.