Funeral preplanning should be part of your estate planning strategy. It takes a significant amount of strain off your loved ones and ensures they follow your wishes after you pass away. Follow the tips below to make this process as rewarding as possible.

Your Guide to Funeral Preplanning

1. Outlining Burial vs. Cremation

Begin by deciding whether you want to be buried or cremated. If you want to be buried, purchase a burial plot at the cemetery and order a stone for the gravesite. If you prefer to be cremated, decide what you want done with the remains, such as burial, scattering, or giving them to family members in an urn. Whichever you choose, provide specific instructions, such as telling family members where and how to scatter your ashes.

2. Planning the Service

Outlining each aspect of the funeral or memorial service will give your family members a guide to follow. It’s up to you how specific to be. Begin by choosing a location, such as a place of worship, a cemetery chapel, a funeral home, or a gravesite. Determine who you would like to participate in the service, such as pallbearers or readers. You can prepare a message of your own to be read, ask for specific songs to be played, or describe the flowers that should be laid out. If there are people you want to invite, include a guest list.

3. Choosing a Site

If you plan to be buried in a cemetery, it will take careful consideration. Choose a location that is either close to where you live or close to family members who would want to visit the gravesite. Visit the site yourself to select a plot you like in a peaceful location. Consider whether you want other loved ones to be buried near you; if so, purchase these plots at the same time.

Work with a funeral director as you plan so that you don’t miss any steps. Melvin T. Strider Colonial Funeral Home has been serving the community of Charles Town, WV, since 1889. They help many families across Jefferson and Berkeley counties in preplanning. Learn more on their website, and call (304) 725-7068 to begin making arrangements.