When a loved one dies, it can be extremely overwhelming. There are many things to deal with, and if you are lucky enough to have family and friends around, it is a good idea to ask for help wherever possible. This article helps to break down the funeral tasks so you can distribute the plans.
Venue, Date and Type of Funeral
Booking the funeral service and venue is the first step. Sit with close friends or family and discuss what you all think would be most suitable for your deceased loved one. Did they have a prepaid funeral plan or a preference? You can plan the rest once you have booked the time and place.
Speak to your loved ones about the type of funeral that would best honour your loved one. Did they state whether they wanted a cremation or burial? A traditional funeral or a celebration of life?
Guests
Once the funeral basics are sorted, you can appoint someone to contact the potential funeral guests to let them know the plans and see if they are attending. If you are having a wake afterwards, you could consider minimising the costs and making it more personal by letting friends and family host at one of their homes or help with food or drinks.
Tributes
Will there be readings at the funeral? Pictures? A video or stories? These things can be split between key family members. Perhaps you can stand up together and read something short each. Maybe someone can be responsible for sourcing appropriate photos of the deceased or creating a video. Consider the deceased’s favourite music and see where it can be slotted into the day.
If you want flowers or special transport for the day, you could ask a loved one to call around to find the right provider. You may also want to set up a link for a chosen charity for anyone who wishes to donate in the name of your loved one.
A United Front
In conclusion, the task of arranging the funeral can be split between the loved ones. If you are feeling overwhelmed with making plans for a funeral while grieving, you should not be afraid to ask for help. A funeral is a personal goodbye, and it is important that it goes how the deceased and their loved ones would like.
Contact Funeral Map for help with funeral plans.
