The passing of a loved one is stressful enough without having to worry about family adding unnecessary tension to the preparation of a funeral service. However, when emotions are already high, you should take extra care to keep everyone getting along. It’s certainly not your fault if a family conflict arises while arranging a funeral, but these tips should help you prevent it.

How to Avoid Conflict When Planning a Funeral

1. Compromise

When planning a funeral service with the help of other family members, such as with siblings for a parent’s funeral, everyone will have an idea of what the deceased would have wanted. Don’t get stuck arguing about every small detail, and instead consider letting each person make the final call on a different aspect of the decisions.

2. Avoid Old Grudges

The death of a loved one will bring up many old memories. Focus on the positive and joyful thoughts that come up and try not to fall into old patterns of previous disagreements. Fighting over grievances of the past won’t help you move forward.

3. Share Responsibilities

You don’t want to feel more overwhelmed than you already do by the emotions associated with the passing of a family member. Have one person handle the communication with the rest of the family, assign another to coordinate with the funeral home, and have someone else determine details like the casket and flowers. Dividing up tasks will keep everyone on track.

4. Hire a Funeral Director

Funeral directors have seen it all, and they’ll help your family maintain lower stress levels. Consult them on big-picture items and small details, and they will provide input for you and your family members as you make decisions. It also helps to have a neutral party present to mediate if tensions begin to rise.

5. Remember the Purpose

The most valuable task for you and your family while grieving and arranging a funeral is to remember that you’re doing it out of respect for life. You may get caught up in a blur of planning and frustrations, but you can always remind yourselves and each other that the deceased wouldn’t want you to fight.

Making arrangements for a funeral service doesn’t have to provoke anxiety, and finding the right funeral home will play a significant part in that. Located in Cincinnati, OH, TP Sons & White Funeral Home prioritizes compassion as they provide funeral and cremation services, including products like caskets and urns, to their local community and the surrounding areas. Visit their website for additional insight into planning a funeral, and call (513) 231-7150 to discuss your arrangements.