The passing of a loved one is stressful enough without having the responsibility of planning the funeral as well. Even if you discussed end-of-life matters with the deceased, without written instructions, you may be at a loss. It helps to understand the facts around planning funeral arrangements if you’re faced with this trying obligation.

Who Should Decide?

If the decedent names someone in their will or a similar legal document to make funeral arrangements, that person is the responsible party. If no designation was made, the nearest relation over 18 years of age should take charge.

How to Decide? 

When planning a funeral, the number of decisions to make can be overwhelming. When a loved one passes with no known plans, you should strive to make choices that would please them. Consider their cultural and religious affiliations and family traditions, and try to observe them. Seek confirmation of decisions from other close relations, but try to minimize disagreements to reduce tensions.

What to Expect

Knowing what to expect can help ease the stress of making decisions. Some of the funeral arrangement decisions you’ll face include:

• Choice of funeral home
• Cremation or traditional burial
• Interment in a mausoleum or the ground
• Location of services: at a funeral home, church, or cemetery
• Selection of an officiant, eulogists, soloists, and other service participants
• Text of the obituary
• Time and date

Since 1938, Bolton & Lunsford Funeral Homes has provided Greater Cincinnati families with caring funeral planning services. When you’re in mourning, they’ll treat you with respect, dignity, and kindness. Whether you’re interested in preplanning your arrangements or are tasked with making arrangements for a loved one, they’ll guide you every step of the way. Call (513) 661-4059 to speak with a funeral director, or go online to learn more about the services they provide.