Pre-Planning Considerations

Since there are many things to think about and so many decisions to make when planning a funeral, we have listed a few items for you to consider before you begin.

Cemetery
If you have not yet chosen a cemetery, we will be glad to arrange an appointment so that you may select the graves at the cemetery of your choice. If you already have cemetery plots, be sure to bring the cemetery deed to the funeral home for your appointment. We will need the deed so that we may supply the cemetery with the correct plot information.

Military Involvement
Was there any involvement in the U.S. Armed Forces? If so, we will need the discharge papers in order to apply for the appropriate benefits.

Organizations
Is there an organization that may wish to participate in the funeral service? If so, please let us know who they are.(e.g. Kiwanis, K of C, Military, Masons, Lions, etc.)

Clothing
What suit, dress or article of clothing would be best for the viewing and burial?

Jewelry
Think about the jewelry that will be worn during the viewing. Remember that anything that is worn during the viewing can be removed before burial if you prefer.

Pictures
Consider making a collage during the Viewing or providing some pictures to be placed around the Funeral Home, during the viewing.

Family Will
Let the family member or executor of the will know where it is kept. It is not necessary for the funeral home to know, but it is helpful for all those involved.

Flowers/Gifts
The Florist you wish to use? The Types of Flowers? Would you prefer to ask for contributions? If so, what charity do you want acknowledged?

Viewing Options
Would you like to have one the evening before the funeral? Or, would you prefer to have one the day of the funeral just prior to the funeral service? Where you wish to have the Viewing? (at the church or funeral home)

Funeral Service
Consider these aspects of the Funeral Service you wish to include: Eulogy, Readings, Music, Presentation of Gifts (Depends on your religious affiliation), Placement of the Pall (Depends on your religious affiliation). Who will participate in these gestures? Eulogist, Readers, Soloist, Gift Presenters, Pallbearers

Notes/Letters/Drawings
Children or family members may wish to write or create something for their loved one. These things can be placed inside the casket during the viewing and can be buried as well. This is a good tool, especially for children, to begin to understand death and grief.

Personal Record
Click here to download a copy of our Personal Record form which you may find useful in completing your funeral pre-arrangement plan or in keeping a record of vital statistics for your family to consult at the time of death. Copies of the completed form should be given to family members, your Funeral Director, your clergy, or close relative/friend. It should not be placed in a safety deposit box, where it may not be available at the time of death.