After a loved one passes away, the thought of making funeral arrangements can seem overwhelming. However, with the right help and an understanding of the process, you can navigate the funeral planning process and create a ceremony that honors your loved one's life. Here's a guide to ensure you take care of all the essential steps.

How to Plan a Funeral

1. Call a Funeral Home

Contact a funeral home in the area close to the deceased. They will arrange for transportation of the body to the home, as well as an autopsy if it is required. The funeral director or coroner will also complete a Pronouncement of Death and obtain a Burial Permit for you through the local City Hall. You should also let other family members and close friends know of the death.

2. Locate Pre-Arrangements

Check your loved one's estate paperwork to determine whether they made any pre-arrangements, such as a pre-paid funeral plot, a pre-planned funeral, or life insurance to cover funeral costs. If they did make arrangements, work directly with the home they chose to ensure their wishes are honored.

3. Draft an Obituary

The obituary should include your loved one's birth date and date of death, a brief description of their life, the loved ones they left behind, and any other important details that will help others remember and honor your loved one. If the funeral service is open to the public, then include the dates, times, and locations for these services. The obituary may later be shared on the funeral home's website, local newspaper, and other publications to alert others of the death.

4. Decide How to Handle the Body

Traditionally, many families choose between burials and cremation. If the deceased made pre-arrangements or outlined their wishes in their will, this decision will be made for you. If they did not leave instructions, consider whether the deceased's religious beliefs provide guidance. You can then decide what to do with the remains, such as a traditional burial or a cremation where the ashes are scattered or kept in an urn. Your funeral director can walk you through each of these funeral planning options. 

5. Detail the Event

For the service itself, you may decide to have an open or closed casket, an urn, or no remains present. You can then choose details such as photos to be displayed, food to be provided, flowers, or music to be played. With the help of other loved ones, you can arrange a program for the service, deciding who will speak, whether any passages will be read, and what songs will be sung or performed. 

The compassionate team at A Natural State Funeral Service will guide you through every step of the funeral planning process in Jacksonville, AR. They offer a full range of services and products to meet your preferences, the deceased's wishes, and any religious customs. Begin planning on their website, or call (501) 982-3400 to speak with a member of the team.