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Planning your own funeral service

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May 27, 2020

Submitted by Kristin Gramando

Funerals serve as a time for family and friends to gather together to celebrate the life of a loved one who has died.

Not only do they offer the opportunity to remember the deceased, but they also can offer comfort and support at an emotional time. While planning your own funeral service may seem uncomfortable, there are several great reasons to do so. These steps will help you create a genuine event to honor the end of life.

Reasons for Planning Your Own Service

Arranging your own funeral requires that you come to terms with your mortality, which can be an empowering act. Being able to embrace the inevitability of death may inspire you to cherish life. Having plans in place when you reach the end of your life will also lift a tremendous burden from your grieving family and friends.

With all of the arrangements addressed, your loved ones can focus on honoring your life and tending to their emotional needs as they navigate this difficult time. They will have the time and space to grieve and support one another.

If you pay ahead of time, you can also lift a significant economic burden from your loved ones.

Making Decisions

A funeral generally has two components. First is a more practical decision: what to do with the deceased’s remains. These options usually include cremation or traditional burial. Should you choose burial, you will have to select a cemetery or other burial site. Should you choose cremation, you can decide what you would like to be done with your ashes.

You may wish for a loved one to have them scattered in your favorite place, or you can select an urn to hold the ashes.

The second component of a funeral is a more creative decision: how to celebrate the deceased’s life. As you plan your funeral or memorial service, imagine an event that would provide the most meaningful way to say goodbye. It should represent your uniqueness and provide an opportunity for loved ones to express their grief.

Talking About It

As you make your funeral arrangements, it is important to talk about them with your loved ones. There is no one right time to have the conversation. Asking a question may help ease into the dialogue: “Have you ever thought about how you would like to be remembered?” or “Do you have a favorite song, scripture or poem?” It’s natural to be sad or uncomfortable during such conversations.

Remember that speaking about your wishes can provide peace of mind not only for you, but for your loved ones as well.

JWarrenFuneral.com
520-836-8041
44400 W. Honeycutt Road, Suite 102

This column appears in the May issue of InMaricopa.