What To Expect Before The Funeral

Planning a funeral is one of the first responsibilities you must handle after a loved one passes away. Most people have never planned a funeral before and don’t know what to expect from the process. At Gallagher Funeral Home, we endeavor to be there with our clients every step of the way. Here’s a look at what you can expect before the funeral:

1. Consultation

The first step is to get in touch with a funeral home and consult with a director. Funeral directors are familiar with all of the arrangements and formalities. They will offer advice on how to proceed. They will arrange for the body’s transportation, help you get a death certificate and a permit for a cremation, and make arrangements for the burial plot if needed. The funeral director will also offer compassionate advice and unconditional support during this time.

2. Providing Information

The funeral director will need some information to make the arrangements and plan a memorial service. You will need to bring in some paperwork with you to verify the identity of the deceased individual and your authority to plan their funeral. Here’s a list of information the funeral director will need:

• Full name of the deceased
• Social security number
• Parent’s names
• Spouse and Children’s names
• Educational history
• Marital status
• Work history
• Recent photographs
• Religious affiliation

If the director needs more information, they will inform you directly during the first consultation.

3. Planning The Funeral

Once they have all the details, the funeral home staff will start making the arrangements. They will contact a priest or celebrant, plan the burial or cremation, get flowers and decorative elements, etc.

If you need help on funeral-related matters or want to know more about our services here at Gallagher Funeral Home, contact us or give us a call 318-640-1375 today.