We plan for every aspect of life. Having a family, vacations, weddings, retirement – all are planned. We prepare for what might happen, such as fires, accidents or floods. But, because most of us do not like to think about death we avoid making important funeral decisions in advance.

Family members making funeral arrangements immediately following a death often are confused and upset. Coping with the sorrow associated with losing a loved one is a great struggle. It is often difficult for families to make all the decisions necessary when the moment is so charged with grief and trauma.

Planning your funeral ahead of time can remove some of the emotional burden from your family. There are many decisions to be made when arranging a funeral. Special wishes related to where to be buried, who is to receive personal effects, and how to be memorialized all require a keen attention to detail. Making these decisions in advance, with the help of those close to you, helps ensure that your requests are fully honored.