Whether you are 28 or 82 years old, the truth is that the time will come when someone will have the responsibility of taking care of your funeral.
Our kids have had a hard time understanding why we want to talk to them about our wishes as we get older. Maybe yours is the same. We don’t like to face death and the obvious problems of what to do when that time comes.
Let me quickly say here, as Christians and believers in Jesus Christ, we know that our final home will be in Heaven. However, one day there will be a funeral here when our earthly bodies rest. And there will be friends and family who need time to adjust to sharing with their loved one.
Families who have made arrangements early have an easier time dealing with all the unexpected details that come up when a loved one dies.
A full funeral can be planned through a local morgue and paid for in advance. Here are some basics that are extremely important when considering a prearranged service agreement.
1. Choose a reputable funeral director. He will sit down with you and discuss the types of funerals available. There is a wide range of options, from cremation, simple burial, elaborate viewing and visitation, and other options. This is where you can write down his personal request so that the family with different points of view does not have to choose for you.
2. Consider the type of service you would like. Do you want to make sure you leave a testimony of Christ at his funeral? Do you want scriptures and music to comfort those who are grieving? Do you have a favorite poem or reading you want to use?
3. How important is a stylish helmet to you? By choosing yourself (or helping an older person choose), you can avoid the temptation some have to get the best (usually the most expensive) to honor dear Aunt Sally. This may sound strange; however, I have seen many ill-equipped families invest more than they could afford to please others or soothe their own feelings.
4. The funeral director will probably have a brochure for you to take, fill out, and return. Here he can accurately record information about you, your work, your education, and your faith. You will also be able to leave a valid obituary with accurate family history.
5. After visiting the funeral home, if you feel comfortable with your plans, you can choose to start paying for your funeral now. There will be many options available to you. Make sure you get everything discussed in writing and make sure this is what you want before you sign a contract.
It is a stressful time when a loved one dies. A pre-planned funeral will ease the confusion since his family will have a clear idea of his wishes. This is especially helpful when more than one person is responsible for making these plans.
For more information or options, contact the State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors in your state or visit a local morgue.
