What to Expect Before the Funeral

It's a common enough experience; a loved one dies and now you've got to face something you've never ever done before. You've got to go to a funeral home to make their funeral arrangements. Now, not only are you emotionally affected by their death, you're anxious and really need to know what to expect when you arrive. So, let's talk about that for a bit.

You should know that we've taken great pains to make your experience with us as easy as possible. Here's how:

• We've put a lot of work into making our funeral home a pleasant place to spend time. That means our interior design is easy-on-the-eye, the rooms are spacious yet cozy, and the furniture is comfortable.
• Our staff is both professional yet personable. We believe that when you leave, you'll consider us more than funeral directors; we'll be well-on-our-way to being friends. Friends you can really trust to compassionately care for your loved one...and for your family.
• We've streamlined the funeral arrangement process. Since we've been making funeral arrangements with families for a very long time, we've had ample opportunity to learn the easiest, most efficient way to get through the process. Believe us when we say; it won't take as long as you think.
• Our team is trained to handle all the details. And we do mean all of them. From filing insurance, social security or veterans administration paperwork; to greeting and bidding farewell to your guests—and everything in between.

Exactly What Happens at the Funeral Home?

While we can't speak to every situation, we can tell you the bare basics of what to expect on your first visit to our funeral home.

• When you come through the front door, you will be greeted warmly by a staff member. Names will be exchanged, and hands shaken in cordiality. Some words of comfort will be offered.
• Once informed of the reason for your visit, you will be directed to the funeral director's office or arrangement office. 
• Before the funeral arrangement conversation goes very far, you will be given a copy of our General Price List, Casket Price List, and any other appropriate price-related documents. This is done to ensure compliance with the Federal Trade Commission's Funeral Rule.

The funeral director will then ask you a number of questions. Think about it this way: your conversation is intended to do two things: 1.) Share accurate biographical details of the deceased to assist the funeral director in completing relevant paperwork, and 2.) come to an agreement about the plans for the funeral, memorial service, or celebration-of-life.

Clearly State the Facts

When it comes to properly completing death paperwork, and writing a detailed obituary, accuracy is everything. So, when it comes to the first task, that of sharing your loved one's biographical details, you'll want to bring as much documentation of the following as possible:

• The deceased's full name
• Their Social Security number
• Parent's names
• Spouse and children's names
• Maiden name of mother
• Marital status
• Educational history
• History of military service
• Work history
• Hobbies and interests
• Church affiliation
• A list of organizational and club memberships
• A recent photograph

Naturally, if you're unable to bring any of this information, you can always call us later to share whatever is missing.

Planning for the Funeral Event

The second step in the funeral arrangement conference, that of planning a meaningful ceremony to pay tribute and celebrate the life of your loved one is really at the heart of what you'll be doing that day. In order to facilitate things, we ask that you bring:

• Pre-arrangement papers, if applicable
• Clothes in which to bury or cremate your loved one
• Cemetery property information, if applicable
• A list of preferred charities for memorial donations, if applicable
• A list of pallbearers, if applicable
• Desired musical and readings selections

There are really two more things to bring: your memories, and your heart-driven creative thinking. After all, we will be guided in planning your loved one's funeral, memorial service, or celebration-of-life by your stories, personal perceptions, and insights into their character and lifestyle.

In the End

Our time together will take only as long as you need it to take. Not only that, while the time you spend with us in your first visit can be very intense and emotionally-draining; you'll be among people who really care about your welfare.  We'll support you throughout the funeral arrangement process, in any way you need us to; and we believe you'll find that when you leave, you've really had very little to be anxious about. But if you still have any questions or concerns, call us today at (301) 475-8500 to learn more about what to expect when you come to our funeral home.