Notify Authorities
Call your local emergency number to report the death. The authorities will call the coroner. Although it may not actually be necessary to call the coroner, it is a good idea to do so, especially if the deceased had insurance policies. But there will likely be other relatives that should be included, especially if they need to travel some distance to attend the funeral. Don't forget to include close friends. Note on the relatives who will be having a part in planning the calling hours and details of the funeral and set up a time to meet with the funeral director to finalize the plans. If there is an executor for the estate of the deceased, this person usually handles this responsibility, but it is entirely up to the family to determine who should handle this responsibility. Often families will divide this responsibility between several family members. You will need it for the completion of the death certificate at the funeral home. Parent's names including middle initials, also the social security number and date of birth of the deceased, their place of work (Name and address) and occupation of the deceased. See Vital Statistics Form.
The funeral director
Use the following checklist to when meeting with your funeral director.
Clothing & Jewelry
(If this will be a cremation you can eliminate this step.) You may want to bring this with you when you meet with the funeral director to make the plans, but this is not essential. Remember any special pins or jewelry. Special pins would include but are not limited to Union and association membership pins. Also Watches, earrings, necklaces, tie tacks, cuff links, or anything that the deceased particularly liked or directed to be included.
Consider the type of burial
If one has been previously purchased, bring the deed to the plot with you, if you have it, to the funeral home when you make your plans. If you know you have a plot but don't have the deed in your possession, the funeral director can contact the cemetery overseer to arrange confirmation. Otherwise a plot will need to be purchased. The funeral director will assist you with this. Your funeral director will describe the various types available. Wood - Metal - Cardboard (cremation) - Urn
Open or closed casket
Some clergy persons insist that the casket be closed for the memorial service. If you have a specific wish for the casket to remain open during the service, be sure to specify this when selecting a clergy person to deliver the eulogy.
Calling hours
There is great flexibility and the time(s) selected should try to accommodate the needs of the family and friends. m. as these hours can accommodate friends who have to work day or evening shifts.
Funeral services
Special Ceremonies
Seating arrangements for the funeral service
Compose the Obituary
Publishing an obituary
Flower arrangements
Relatives and other well wishers may also need to be advised as to your desired floral selections. Consider setting up pictures or a photo album to remind well wishers and family of good times or special events in the life of the deceased.
Eulogies
Special Recognition
Memorial cards (optional)
Pall bearers
Usually 4 to 6 men are needed.
Music at calling hours or funeral
Grave site transportation
Transportation of the deceased is usually provided by the funeral home.
Grave marker
Veterans may be eligible for a marker plaque. A member of a service or charitable organization may be eligible for special insignia to be fixed to the marker.
Wake or special gathering
Consider where and when to hold this gathering.
Accommodating out of town relatives
