What to Expect

  • What is the arrangement conference?

    The arrangement conference is typically setup within the first 24 hours after the death of your loved one. It is an opportunity to meet with the Funeral Director and begin making the funeral arrangements.

  • Who should make decisions?

    Typically one person is legally responsible for making decisions regarding the funeral arrangements. If your loved one has not expressed their wishes in a written document such as a Power of Attorney or a Last Will and Testament, then the chain of command is as follows:

    Legal Spouse/Partner

    Surviving Adult Child/Children

    Surviving Parent

    Surviving Adult Sibling

    Ex-Spouse

    Parent of Minor Child

    The legally responsible person will need to be present to make decisions and sign documents

  • What if I need assistance making arrangements?

    While one person will be legally responsible for signing documents and making decisions, often people choose to include children, friends, or family in the planning process. Including others in the process can help you to come to terms with the loss and make the funeral or memorial service more meaningful

  • What documents will I need?

    When a loved one dies there are a number of different pieces of paperwork which will need to be completed. Your Funeral Director will help guide you through the process and will complete and file many of the necessary documents on your behalf

    To assist your Funeral Director with preparing the necessary documents, it's helpful to bring the following documents (as applicable) with you to the arrangement conference:

    Deceased's Birth Certificate

    Deceased's Marriage Certificate

    Deceased's Military Discharge papers

    Deceased Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care

    Last Will and Testament and any Codicils

    Revocable Living Trust

  • Where should services be held?

    Services may be held at any number of locations that you find meaningful. Many families choose to hold the funeral service at their church, while others choose to hold it at the Funeral Home Chapel.

    Your Funeral Director can help you choose a location which is fitting of the life lived and meaningful to you and your family.

  • What day and time is best?

    The answers to this question depend on the location you have selected and the schedules of those who wish to attend.

    Many families choose to hold afternoon visiting hours followed by a memorial service, while others choose to hold visiting hours one day followed by a funeral the next.

  • Who should officiate the service?

    Many families choose to have a minister of their faith officiate the service. Others choose to have a trusted friend or family member who cares deeply about guiding those who are in attendance at the ceremony. Our guidance is to select someone you know well and trust.

  • How do I let everyone know?

    In the past the public was typically notified of services in an obituary published in the local newspaper. However, more and more often we find that people are letting their family and friends know by sharing the online obituary via social media or email.

    Whatever way you choose to notify family and friends of the passing of your loved one, we are here to help and assist you.