A funeral service allows families to honor their departed loved one and start the healing process. To ensure the ceremony goes smoothly, it’s helpful to keep a few funeral planning tips in mind, says the compassionate staff at Melvin T. Strider Colonial Funeral Home, based in Ranson, WV. Below, they review what you need to know.

A Brief Guide to Funeral Planning

1. Figure Out the Type of Service You Want

A memorial service should be reflective of the person who has passed away. To ensure it honors the decedent’s wishes and those of the family, review their will for any special instructions. Also, discuss with other family members what elements they would like to include. 

2. Delegate Tasks

To ensure the burden of planning doesn’t fall on one person’s shoulders, make sure you include other people the deceased was close to. Make a list of the tasks that need to be completed and divide the work among the people involved. For instance, one person might be responsible for writing the obituary and placing the notice of the service in the newspaper, while another notifies friends and family directly.

3. Only Purchase What You Want

Many funeral homes offer different packages for memorial services, but they will also often tailor a plan to your needs and budget. For instance, you might want to keep floral arrangements at a minimum and invest in alternate decor that better suits the decedent’s personality.

For help with funeral planning, speak with the professionals at Melvin T. Strider Colonial Funeral Home. They serve the residents of Ranson, Charles Town, Martinsburg, and Inwood and have been helping bereaved families since 1889. They’ll work with you to design a service that meets your needs and budget. To schedule an appointment, call (304) 725-7068 or visit their website today.