Planning Ahead

"The idea is simple" the subject of funerals is never easy to discuss. For the same reasons you write a will or buy life insurance, people feel that it is a good idea to prepare for the future and make their own, personal plans.

At the time of an actual funeral, most decisions need to be made within a few hours. But, by preplanning the service options, you can take your time and make the decisions in an unhurried and thoughtful way. You will be offering your family the opportunity to know of your wishes. Discussing the services in advance can be a worthwhile experience in light of the impact your own death may have on those you love most.

Preplanning a funeral does not have to be stressful. Contact us if you have questions regarding

• prearrangement of the entire service
• cemetery requirements
• veterans benefits
• social security benefits
• how to handle an out-of-town death

If you would like to contact us regarding your arrangements, please fill out as much information as you feel comfortable with on our preneed form.

Service Planning Form

This form has been prepared to assist you during this time of need. We have tried to include many of the details that will need your attention. If there is a problem that arises in your particular situation, please do not hesitate to request our assistance.

It is advisable to check the schedule of your clergyperson and the location where services will be held before establishing a set day and time for the service. We will be glad to notify your clergyperson so that schedules can be coordinated and verified before you make long distance phone calls to relatives and friends.

We will assist you with the arranging of special music, selection of your cemetery lot if needed, and many other details that will be needed in the next few days.

As you join us for the arrangement conference, please bring the following items of clothing:

LADIES: Dress, blouse and skirt, or pantsuit, preferably with 3/4 or full length sleeves; slip, underwear, stockings, jewelry if desired, a lace hankie or rosary, shoes or slippers if you wish. A recent photograph to show the hairstyle and for use in the local newspaper obituary would be very helpful.

MEN: Suit, shirt, tie, or slacks, shirt and sweater; underwear, socks, shoes or slippers if desired, any jewelry or a rosary. A recent photograph to show the hairstyle and for use in the local newspaper obituary would be helpful.

If glasses were worn regularly during life, it is well to consider using them during the time of visitation. Should you have any questions on the type of clothing you have selected, please feel free to call us for information.

If the deceased was in the MILITARY SERVICE, information will be needed on the branch of service and service numbers. Please bring with you a copy of the military discharge if available.

We will need the following information to complete the certificate of death, social security form, and for the obituary notices that will be placed on the radio and in the newspapers. Please complete the form to the best of your ability and submit it to us now.