Funeral planning is an emotional, often challenging task. However, planning a thoughtful service befitting your loved one’s life may bring some solace during a time of tremendous grief. Here are some helpful suggestions to keep in mind.

How to Plan a Funeral

1. Select a Method of Disposition

First, determine the most appropriate option of disposition. If your loved one made funeral preplanning arrangements, use them as guidance. Otherwise, consider whether a traditional burial or cremation is appropriate. Take cues from family traditions or your loved one’s express wishes. Speak with a funeral director to discuss preferences. At this stage, you may select a casket or urn.

2. Settle Logistical Details

A funeral home is a natural choice for hosting an end-of-life service. If you’re planning a memorial service instead of a traditional funeral, you may choose to hold it elsewhere. There are no rules about appropriate locations.

Next, choose a date and time. Clear the date with individuals you want to attend beforehand, particularly if they live out of town.

3. Create a Sentimental Program

Focus now on the particulars of the service. Funeral planning may be emotionally draining, but it’s also a chance to remember what made your loved one so special. Choose people to speak at the service, whether family members of the deceased, friends, or spiritual leaders. Select poems, music, passages, and other readings that they loved. Determine who will deliver the eulogy, and identify pallbearers if needed.

4. Communicate Any Special Requests

Mourners may opt to send flowers to the funeral home or the home of the decedent’s family. If you prefer that people make charitable contributions in your loved one’s name instead, express those wishes in the death notice to allow mourners to act accordingly.

Serving families throughout Wisconsin Rapids, WI, since 1957, the caring and compassionate staff at Ritchay Funeral Home are committed to assisting you during your time of grief. Whether you’re in the process of funeral planning or want to learn more about their burial or cremation services, you can trust them to provide honest, forthright guidance to help you make the best choices for your loved one. Visit them online for details about how to initiate arrangements, or call them at (715) 423-1414 to speak with a representative.