The loss of a loved one can be a difficult time for any individual. Even if the loss was expected, it can’t be helped to be profoundly emotional and sad. Despite all that, it still falls to the family to make the necessary arrangements for the deceased’s funeral.
Planning a funeral is never easy, and no one is ever prepared for it when the time comes. It’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed, and it’s okay to ask for help if you need it. Most of the funeral homes in Jacksonville, FL, make it a point to assist the grieving family in any way they can.
If the burden of organizing a funeral falls to you, here are some important steps that you should consider:
Finding a Funeral Director
Everything starts by finding a funeral director that will help you arrange everything. They will serve as a helpful guide who will make the process just a bit easier for you and your family. An experienced and empathetic funeral director will make sure that all the funeral details are organized based on your wishes.
Getting recommendations from friends, colleagues, and family members can make the selection of a funeral director easier. You can always search online and read reviews about funeral services in Jacksonville, FL, to help you understand how they can help you with the arrangements.
Deciding on the Nature of the Ceremony and Funeral Rites
Funerals are all about honoring the deceased. One of the most important ways to display that honor is considering the deceased’s belief or lack of belief. If your loved one had a strong faith and belonged to any denomination, you should tailor the ceremony around the funeral rites and traditions of that particular religious group.
If your loved one was not a person of faith, then a secular ceremony would be more appropriate. Some people also opt to have non-traditional funerals as a celebration of the life of the deceased. Whatever the nature of the ceremony you choose, it should be to pay respect to the wishes of your loved one.
Making Cemetery Arrangements
For burial in a church graveyard, it is customary to have an attending service in the corresponding church. Meanwhile, graveside or chapel ceremonies are common for public cemeteries. If you opt for a private land burial, you need to make additional arrangements to make sure you comply with any relevant laws.
Cremation has become a more practical option as it is significantly cheaper than arranging a burial. You can choose where the ceremony can take place before the actual cremation.
Choosing Speakers and Writing Eulogies
It’s common to see family members volunteer to read the eulogy dedicated to the deceased. Eulogies are typically planned ahead of time, so you get an idea of the duration of the service.
It’s possible that a lot of people would like to speak a eulogy, but it’s important not to prolong the service by having too many speakers. As an alternative option, you can arrange a post-ceremony gathering where all friends and family members can tell some of their stories or fondest memories of the deceased.
Final Thoughts
Planning a funeral is all about respecting the wishes of your deceased love one. It’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed to organize everything while you are in the process of mourning. But this is where your friends and family can help you. To be less encumbered by such a responsibility, you can hire a funeral director that’s willing to guide you throughout the funeral and burial services.
Evergreen Funeral Home and Crematory has been providing funeral services in Jacksonville, FL, for over 130 years. We are committed to honoring the lives of your loved ones and respecting their wishes as there are settled into their final resting place. Expect caring, compassionate, and convenient services only from Evergreen Funeral Home and Crematory. Get in touch with us for inquiries.
