Not so long ago, choosing a funeral director was a very simple matter. Decisions about the care of a loved one’s remains were typically based on church, cultural, or ethnic affiliations, family tradition, or reputation.

Funeral homes were family owned, and many of them had been in the funeral business for decades, if not generations.

Today, community ties typically are not as strong as they once were. Almost 87% of funeral homes are still family owned and operated. The rest are owned by one of five publicly traded stock corporations that have entered the market.

As you consider which funeral home is best for your family, remember that the funeral director’s job is not only to care for the remains of the deceased, but also to serve the bereaved family by helping with the myriad of details that arise when someone dies.

The funeral director will also provide support as you cope with your loss.

The following are just some of the things you can expect from your funeral director:

• Help your family to plan a funeral service that meets your emotional needs within your budget.
• Write the obituary and submit it for publication.
• Secure necessary permits and copies of death certificate.
• Transport and care for the body.
• Coordinate services with clergy, fraternal organizations, cemetery, or crematorium, as appropriate.
• Help to secure any benefits to which you may be entitled (e.g. social security or VA death benefits, burial insurance).
• Provide bereavement services or make referrals for grief counseling and support.
• Transport family members in the funeral procession.

Things to Consider:

Location – The funeral home should be conveniently located for family and friends, as well as reasonably close to the cemetery and to the church, if the funeral will be held there.

Reputation – Funeral homes have typically been in their communities for many years. Don’t be quick to judge a business solely on price as just like any other business, not all funeral homes are equal in service delivery.

Facility size – If you have a large family or the deceased had many friends, you’ll want to be sure that the funeral home is large enough to accommodate everyone. If there are several viewing rooms in the funeral parlor, ask the funeral director to which room your family will be assigned, and be sure to let him know if you’re concerned about the size.

Environment – The interior of the funeral parlor should be clean and accessible, with ample comfortable seating.

Exterior appearance – Notice whether the exterior of the funeral home and the surrounding grounds are well maintained, and make sure there is sufficient room for parking near or at the facility.

Funeral director and staff – As you plan for your loved one’s funeral; you’ll be interacting closely with the funeral director and funeral home staff. You’ll want them to be pleasant, as well as knowledgeable and trustworthy. Trust your instincts to tell you if this staff is one you can work with comfortably.

The Funeral Arranger™ Comparison Matrix – At the Funeral Arranger™ we provide all client families with a funeral business comparison matrix to compare one funeral business with another within your parameters.