Pre-Planning Checklist
Important Reasons Why Planning Ahead May Be the Best Option
Whether you're considering service details, final arrangements, or important personal information, this checklist helps ensure nothing is overlooked. When you're ready, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Ways You Can Plan Ahead
Planning ahead can bring peace of mind to both you and your loved ones. Start by gathering personal information that may be needed for your obituary, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Consider selecting a charity to receive donations in your honor, if that aligns with your wishes. Choosing a funeral home in advance can simplify arrangements, and it's helpful to document any specific instructions you have for your services and final disposition. These thoughtful steps can ease the burden on others and ensure your preferences are respected.
The Funeral Service
- Choose burial or cremation.
- Select a casket or cremation container.
- Choose locations and types of services.
- Choose floral arrangements.
- Select which photographs and memorabilia to display.
- Consider any customs, traditions, or religious rites that are important to you and your family.
- Choose the clothing you’d like to be dressed in.
- Select music and hymns, if desired.
- Choose a theme for decorative elements at your services.
- Arrange transport for your physical remains and your family.
The Participants
- Choose a clergy member or officiator to preside over the service.
- Select any musicians whose talents you’d like to employ.
- Select pallbearers.
- Choose friends or family members to perform the eulogy, read scripture, or prepare a speech.
Final Disposition
- Choose a cemetery.
- Select a burial plot or mausoleum.
- Select a memorial or grave marker and inscription.
- Decide who will keep your urn.
- Decide who will scatter your ashes and where.
Additional Information
Personal Information:
- Your father’s name
- Your mother’s maiden name
- Your level of education
- Your social security number
Affiliations:
- Fraternal organizations
- Service organizations
- Union memberships
- Any special recognitions you have
Military Service:
- Military service
- Branch rank
- Date of enlistment
- Date of discharge
- Name(s) of war/conflict(s) toured
- Serial number