Approaching funeral plans in the aftermath of loss is incredibly overwhelming. While you want to celebrate the life and accomplishments of your loved one, it's challenging to make the right decisions during times of grief. Fortunately, you can ease the planning process and ensure their memory is respectfully honored by asking your funeral home staff the right questions.

What to Ask When Making Funeral Plans

1. Should I Choose a Funeral or Memorial Service?

Both styles of service are designed to commemorate the life a person lived. While funeral services are traditionally practiced with a casket present, memorial services are usually associated with cremation. If you've chosen cremation, you can still elect to have an open casket funeral service first.

2. What Urn or Casket Options Are Available?

With both burial and cremation, you'll need to choose a final resting container. There are a large variety of caskets and urns available. Some are more decorative in appearance while other options offer a minimalist style with simple lines and details. You will also have to take size into account. Your funeral director will walk you through your options and help you choose the right one for your circumstances.

3. What Documents Do I Need to Provide?

When a person passes, you'll need to obtain a death certificate. Most funeral directors will handle the death certificate application, along with the permit requests for cremation, for you to ensure you're not overwhelmed with the legal process. They will, however, need you to provide certain information to submit the documents, such as your loved one's legal name, address, and date of birth.

4. How Do I Arrange a Cemetery Plot?

Your funeral home staff will also assist you in making the arrangements for your loved one's final resting place. All you need to provide is the location of your desired cemetery or mausoleum, and they'll handle the plot approval and purchase as well as the pre- and post-burial tasks. If you don't have a location in mind, they will provide their recommendations.

At Abriola Parkview Funeral Home in Trumbull, CT, we're committed to providing compassionate and helpful services to families and individuals during the funeral planning process. Since 1906, our dedicated staff has created a supportive, comforting environment to ensure the needs of our clients are met to the fullest. As a family-owned and -operated funeral home, we provide the level of personalized care and attention that you and your family deserve. If you'd like to learn more about our funeral plans and prearrangement options, visit our website or call (203) 373-1013 today.