Issue 39.11
There are many decisions to make following the death of a loved one.
Consider the following five questions: If my death occurred tomorrow –
Who would be responsible to arrange my funeral?
What type of funeral or services would I request?
How much would I expect my funeral to cost?
Where would the funds come from to pay for my funeral?
What would I regret most regarding my final arrangements?
There are also many specific questions in regards to ceremony, caskets, urns, outer burial containers, cemetery, veteran’s honors, etc., to consider.
We plan and prepare for many things that might happen in our lives. We wouldn’t think of not having auto insurance or home insurance and many also plan by having food storage and/or a 72 hour kit, all things we hope we will not need. We also need to plan for our funeral, something we most certainly will need.
There are three aspects of planning a funeral, any one of which will assist your family at the time of need: First, gathering information including statistical information and recording your desires and wishes. Second, making arrangements and choices regarding services the type of casket or
urn, burial or cremation and place of final disposition. Third, funding for the services and selections you have designated.
There are many individuals and national companies selling final death products. I recommend you talk to your local and experienced funeral director who plans and arranges funerals on a daily basis for your funeral or cremation planning. He can at no expense to you, explain the differences including the pros and cons between many programs and assist you in any or all of the three aspects of pre-planning your services.
Of all things you can do for your family, the decision of planning your funeral may be one of the most considerate and caring.
Ron Metcalf is the Personal Funeral Director at Metcalf Mortuary, 300 W. St. George Blvd., St. George and can be reached at 435-673-4221.