Helping Families and Friends Honor Their Loved One for over 100 years.

Decisions in the Pre-Planning Process

Information for Pre-Need Funeral Planning

 

Vital Statistics

  • Full name and complete address
  • How long at current/former residence(s)
  • Occupation, job title, nature of work, and history
  • Location of workplace
  • Social security number
  • Veteran’s serial number
  • Date and place of service, date of discharge
  • Date of birth
  • Place of birth
  • Family origin
  • Father’s name
  • Mother’s maiden name
  • Educational attainment

 

Paperwork and Documents to Collect

  • Will
  • Birth certificate
  • Social security card
  • Marriage license
  • Military discharge
  • Insurance policies (life, health, accident, property, auto)
  • Bank books
  • Stocks and bonds
  • Property deed
  • Cemetery deed
  • Auto titles
  • Tax returns, receipts, and cancelled checks

 

Decisions to Make

  • Exact location of burial/disposition
  • Location of service
  • Casket
  • Outer burial container
  • Items for memento display
  • Clothing and jewelry for deceased
  • Service type (religious, fraternal, military)
  • Selection of scripture and readings (poems, etc.)
  • Clergy to officiate
  • Register book, memorial/prayer cards
  • Casket bearers
  • Floral arrangements
  • Music selections
  • Transportation for family and guests, including funeral procession lineup

 

Tips on Wills

Have a will drawn up by an attorney. Leave one copy with him or her and one with a trusted friend or family member (e.g., the principal beneficiary, your spouse, your child, etc.)

One thing you should not do is put your will in a bank vault or safe deposit box. Keep your will and other important papers in another safe place. Safe deposit boxes are often sealed for a period of time at the owner’s death.

Make sure your insurance coverage is up to date. Major changes in life circumstances such as marriage, the birth or adoption of a child, divorce, or retirement can change your insurance needs.