Are you worried about your loved ones after you’ve passed and want to have as much say over your final arrangements as possible? Then it’s time to consider funeral pre-planning, so your loved ones know what you want. Here are five things you can quickly check off the list, so your family will give you the best send-off without being worried they got it wrong.

5 Things to Plan Ahead

1. Obituary

Of all the things to include in your pre-planning, your obituary is probably something you want to think out thoroughly. In the funeral planning process, your loved ones will know what you wanted to be said about you and in which publications to publish. If you write this ahead of time, you get to have the most say about what people will read after you’ve passed. 

2. Burial or Cremation

Speaking up about how your loved ones should lay you to rest will ensure that they don’t question it. Some people prefer to be buried, which means they’ll also need to pick out a burial location and plot. Others want to be cremated and then have their ashes scattered someplace or kept with a close relative. It’s essential to know your options as burial services tend to be a little bit more expensive than cremation services. These options are something you will discuss with those closest to you as you begin your funeral pre-planning.

3. Type of Service

In addition to deciding between burial or cremation services, you could also plan a military service if you’ve served in the armed forces, or plan a religious ceremony if that’s part of your beliefs and culture. The funeral home director you work with will be able to help guide you through the various options and make this process as easy as possible given the circumstances. 

4. Flowers

Picking out flowers is perhaps one of the most challenging things to agree on for those left behind. If you have a favorite arrangement or carnation that you’d like draped over your casket or displayed during your funeral service, then plan these ahead of time.

5. Music

Picking out music for your funeral procession might be the last thing on your mind at this point, but if you have a particular song or musical accompaniment that you’d like your attendees to hear as they say their good-byes, now is the time to speak up. Music will set the tone of your funeral, and if you’re looking for something happy and memorable, then picking out your music ahead of time will ensure that your loved ones remember the good times they had with you. This can be said for people of all religions who want certain types of music played. Making this known ahead of time will help your loved ones better prepare for your funeral.

Funeral pre-planning isn’t easy, but with the help of our caring staff at Schlientz & Moore Funeral Home in Dayton, OH, your mind will be at ease knowing most of these things are taken care of ahead of time. We are available 24/7 and will travel anywhere to pick up the deceased. We pride ourselves on offering affordable, fair, and honest services. If you’re ready to start your funeral pre-planning, give us a call at (937) 253-1441 or visit us online for all of our funeral service options and checklists.