Funeral Planning Checklist

Throughout one’s lifetime, almost everyone will be tasked with planning a funeral service. For some, this can be an experience that creates a whirlwind of emotions and stress especially if this is your first time planning a funeral for a loved one. Many people find themselves asking how to plan a funeral. Fortunately, our funeral planning checklist covers important topics you need to think about and offers a step by step plan of choices you will need to make.
 
At Fiore Funeral Homes, we strive to make planning funeral arrangements stress free. Over the years, we have helped hundreds of families plan meaningful and memorable funeral services to honor their loved ones. The funeral planning process is rather similar for those who need to plan a funeral service immediately and for those interested in preplanning for a funeral farther in the future.
planning funeral arrangements person writing list

How to Plan a Funeral 

There are three main areas to consider when funeral planning: the details of the funeral itself, caring for finances and property, and caring for pets. We have updated our checklist over the years to ensure it keeps up with modern conditions and demands.

Take Care of the Funeral Arrangements

  • Contact the funeral home and arrange for transportation of the body to the funeral home
  • Review the deceased’s will and decide on burial vs. cremation and traditional funeral vs. memorial service
  • Select the funeral products that you need and want such as a casket, headstone, urn, prayer cards, and a register book
  • Select the music and choice of flowers (and colors) for the service
  • Make note of any important details the deceased would have wanted in the obituary
  • If the deceased was in the military check to see if he/she qualifies for military death benefits
  • Organize who will be saying the eulogy, doing any readings, saying any prayers, or providing any other remarks during the ceremony
  • If you are interested, you can setup the option to receive donations for a chosen charity on behalf of the deceased
  • Notify family and friends of the ceremony’s date, time, and place of venue.

Take Care of Finances & Property

  • Have the executor(s) review a list of the deceased’s bank accounts, investments, creditors, benefits, insurance policies, and any other legal or financial accounts
  • Have the executor review and notify the appropriate institutions to notify them of death and suspend payments
  • Review the will and decide whether to delete or close any online accounts of the deceased

Take Care of Your Pets

  • Review the will and consult with family and friends who will take care of the deceased’s pets
  • Ensure care for the pet until a permanent home is found
At Fiore Funeral Home, we understand how difficult it can be when you lose a loved one. Our dedicated and compassionate staff will work alongside you to create a meaningful funeral service. With every service, we strive to exceed your expectations and celebrate the life of your loved one with dignity and respect.
 
If you have any questions about our funeral checklist or would like to begin the arrangement process, please contact us for assistance. A member of our staff would be honored to meet with you.
 
The pages below provide more specific funeral planning advice:

List of Services

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