How to Get Started With Planning Your Own Funeral

Planning your own funeral and memorial service can be depressing or upsetting, but this preparation can save your loved ones a great deal of emotional trauma should the unexpected occur. Few people are comfortable considering their own mortality. However, taking these proactive steps with the compassionate support of your funeral home will provide you with peace of mind knowing that you have protected your loved ones from the stress of decision-making. This will allow them the mental space to grieve together, as well as to celebrate your life upon your passing. Here are suggestions for planning your own funeral.

Understand Your Options When Planning Your Own Funeral

It’s important to understand the various options that are available for your final service and resting place. Would you prefer to be cremated, or does a traditional ground burial feel more comfortable to you and for your family? There are no right or wrong answers, but thoughtful conversations with your loved ones will help you determine an option that works for you all. Once you have made this decision, you’ll need to also choose your:

• Casket and vault, and specifically where you would like to be buried
• For cremation, determine whether your ashes will be scattered or your cremated remains will be placed in a columbarium
• Details for your memorial service such as visitation suggestions, songs, speakers and any graveside services
• Determine whether you would like religious elements, and where they make sense in your ceremony
• Share any specific readings such as poems or Scripture that have special meaning to yourself or your loves ones
• Consider whether you will need a headstone or marker, and the text or images you would like to display
• Any personal service options, such as a release of doves, military send-off or other details

Along with planning the details of your funeral, you may also consider making arrangements to help offset the cost. While your Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery associates will make every effort to help you make choices that are within your budget, funerals can be a burden on families who have not planned in advance for this expense. Learn more about your options and speak with our compassionate staff by calling 480-832-2850 anytime. You may also reach us via email to wecare@mvfuneralhome.com.