Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult times in a person’s life. Unless pre-funeral arrangements have been made, it will be necessary to make funeral arrangements quickly. This website has been developed to enable you to find a local funeral home quickly as well as to provide helpful information relating to the funeral process.

Generally, within twenty four hours of your loved one’s death, you will need to meet with a funeral home to begin the final arrangements. This is known as the arrangement conference. This is a difficult time for you and your loved ones however it’s comforting to know that funeral homes will do their utmost to make this difficult time a little bit easier. The Funeral Director will guide you in making all the necessary decisions.

Consider Having Someone Accompany You To The Funeral Conference

You may want another family member or friend to come along with you on your initial visit to the funeral home. While it’s not necessary to bring someone with you for moral support, it can be very beneficial.

Who is Responsible for Making the Decisions?

It’s important to know exactly who is legally responsible for making the final decisions for a loved one. If the deceased has not expressed their wishes through a written document such as a Last Will and Testament, then the responsibility for making the decisions generally follows the order below.

•     Legal Spouse/Partner
•     Surviving Adult Child/Children
•     Surviving Parent
•     Surviving Adult Sibling
•     Ex-Spouse
•     Parent of Minor Child

The person designated as the responsible party will need to be available to make decisions, and sign documents. If you have questions about the accepted kinship-related procession of responsibility, or are unclear as to who is the responsible person in terms of funeral planning, contact the funeral home or consult with an attorney who concentrates in the area of estates.

Can Someone Else be Included in Making the Arrangements?

When appropriate, it’s generally a good idea to include any children, friends, or other family members who would like to be a part of arranging the funeral. Despite the fact that they may not have any legal decision-making rights, their input could be very helpful to the process. If there is someone who you feel should be asked to participate, make sure you ask them. They can always decline.

Gather the Necessary Documents

When a person dies, not only is it an emotional matter for family and friends, there is also a legal component that requires the timely completion and filing of documents. The Funeral Director will tell you that the first step in caring for your loved one involves completing, and filing, the Death Certificate and Burial or Cremation permit.

These documents need to be completed accurately. To assist the funeral home in preparing the necessary documents, it’s helpful to bring the following items with you to the funeral home.

•     Deceased's Birth Certificate
•     Deceased's Marriage Certificate
•     Deceased's Military Discharge papers
•     Deceased's Funeral pre-arrangements documents (if available)
•     Deceased Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care
•     Last Will and Testament and any Codicils
•     Revocable Living Trust